South Devon AONB
Walks & Trails
![Coastal Path Sign [© Clare Pawley Countryside Agency]](images/sub/_aonb_31_large.jpg)
![Couple Sitting on Cliff [© Clare Pawley Countryside Agency]](images/sub/CoupleSittingOnCliff_03-5432_r.jpg)
Torcross
![WWII Tank Memorial [Seb Kelly © South Devon AONB Unit]](uploads/WWII Tank memorial 200.jpg)
![Torcross & Ley [Seb Kelly © South Devon AONB Unit]](uploads/Torcross and Ley 200.jpg)
A gentle walk through a sumptuous landscape: the graceful form of Start Bay curling away to the north and south, freshwater lagoons, meadows, woodland, and peaceful Devon lanes meandering between blossoming banks
- Start: Torcross Car Park
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Circular walk: Yes
- Grade: Moderate
- Terrain: Route fairly even underfoot. Coastal footpath and field footpaths with occasional mud in wet weather; surfaced road.
- Obstacles and steep gradients: 2 stiles; 2 flights of steps
- Accessibility: This route is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
- Public transport: Bus service 93 to Torcross from Dartmouth, Kingsbridge and Plymouth. For information on public transport in South Hams please call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 www.traveline.org.uk.
- Refreshment stops: In Torcross: Start Bay Inn, locally well known for seafood 01548 580553; Torcross Tavern 01548 580669; Sea Breeze Cafe.
- Toilets: Public toilets at Torcross Car Park.
- Parking: Torcross Car Park. Pay and display.
- Accommodation: Please contact Dartmouth Tourist Information Centre 01803 834224. www.discoverdartmouth.com
- Other facilities: Start Bay Stores and Post Office, Torcross; public payphone in Torcross, 400m from post office along main road around back of Ley.
- OS map: Explorer OL20
- Grid ref: SX824423
Directions
From car park, cross road to seafront and turn right along the sea wall. At the end, go up steps signed ‘Coast Path up steps to Beesands, Hallsands and Start Point’.
Follow the track at the top then turn left following yellow waymarker arrow up hill and onto footpath. The path climbs inland around the back of an old quarry and drops down to Beesands Cellars.
Shortly before the path reaches the beach, turn right at fingerpost onto public footpath signed for Widewell. Alternatively, go straight on here for detour to visit beach – and the quarry, which is left along the beach. Retrace your steps, and turn left here.
Follow path up field edge, cross track, and continue, following yellow waymarkers.
The route emerges from woods past cottages at Widdicombe then bears right up drive.
After 200m turn right at fingerpost along public footpath signed ‘Widewell ¼m’, and drop down through field.
At the road turn right and follow lane to return to Torcross and the car park.
Follow the track at the top then turn left following yellow waymarker arrow up hill and onto footpath. The path climbs inland around the back of an old quarry and drops down to Beesands Cellars.
Shortly before the path reaches the beach, turn right at fingerpost onto public footpath signed for Widewell. Alternatively, go straight on here for detour to visit beach – and the quarry, which is left along the beach. Retrace your steps, and turn left here.
Follow path up field edge, cross track, and continue, following yellow waymarkers.
The route emerges from woods past cottages at Widdicombe then bears right up drive.
After 200m turn right at fingerpost along public footpath signed ‘Widewell ¼m’, and drop down through field.
At the road turn right and follow lane to return to Torcross and the car park.
