South West Coast Path - Exmouth to Lyme Regis Map and Itinerary

Below you will find a detailed description based on our 4 Day & 5 Night Itinerary.

Arrive in Exmouth

Your first overnight will be in the lively seaside town of Exmouth. If you have enough time, it is worth arriving early to enjoy what Exmouth has to offer. There are a diverse selection of shops and places to eat as well as beautiful sandy beaches. To get to Exmouth from London it is a 3 hour train journey via Exeter. Alternatively, arrive by bus or fly into Exeter and then regular trains run from Exeter to Exmouth (approx 45m).

Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton - 6 miles (10km)

Leaving Exmouth behind, you start your walk by climbing up to the official start of the Jurassic Coastline, Orcombe Point. The scenery is quite distinctive at this part of the coastline with its dramatic red sandstone cliffs which are an astounding 250 million years old. Follow cliff-top paths along to the unspoilt seaside town of Budleigh Salterton with its Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses and delightful pebble beach.

Budleigh Salterton to Sidmouth - 7 miles (11km)

From Budleigh Salterton, return to the coast and on to one of the most dramatic sights along this coast, Ladram Bay. Take in its striking red sandstone stacks and caves which are some of the oldest rocks along the World Heritage Coast. You may also spot some of the fantastic birdlife which shelters here. Some lovely views follow from High Peak and Peak Hill before reaching the bustling seaside resort of Sidmouth. Enjoy fresh seafood caught by the local fishermen, take in the beautiful buildings along the promenade or just put your feet up and relax at one of the plentiful cafes or restaurants.

Sidmouth to Beer - 8.5 miles (14km)

Be prepared to feel tired at the end of today’s walk which involves some steep climbs up and down from the cliffs to and from the pretty secluded coves and beaches. However, your legs are rewarded on these climbs with some magnificent views from Salcombe Hill and Dunscombe Cliff as well as a detour to the delightful village of Branscombe with its pretty thatched cottages. From Branscombe walk down through the Hookend Cliff landslip area which offers an abundance of rare flora and fauna as well as one of the biggest collections of fossils. You will finally emerge to the fishing village of Beer. Beer is most well known for its smugglers coves and caves and are well worth a visit when you arrive there.

Beer to Lyme Regis - 8.5 miles (14km)

Follow the coast path past old coast-guard cottages and through Axe Bridge golf course and take in the breathtaking views back towards Beer Head and the white chalky cliffs. From here, you descend into the Undercliff National Nature Reserve and one of the most exciting and unsual parts of the walk. The path weaves its way through the undercliff created by landslips. From jungle-like woodland catch occasional glimpses out to the coastline. You may even spot some of the wildlife living in this unique environment including badgers, roe deer and foxes. You will eventually emerge from the undergrowth above the coastline before descending down into Lyme Regis. Lyme Regis is a delightful unspoiled seaside resort, and the distinctive Cobb harbour makes a fitting end to your walk. Celebrate at one of the plentiful restaurants and cafes and enjoy delicious freshly caught seafood straight off the fishing boats at the harbour.

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