South West Coast Path: Plymouth to Brixham | Stage 7

Arrive in Plymouth. Time permitting why not enjoy some of the many attractions Plymouth has to offer. Take a walk along the Waterfront Walkway which forms part of the South West Coast Path. Explore the Barbican area of Plymouth, with its many shops, cafes and art galleries, and visit the Mayflower Steps at Pilgrims point.

Take the ferry across the Cattewater from the pontoon at the Barbican to Mount Batten Point. Begin to experience the peacefulness and isolation that this section of the path offers. After passing Wembury Point the path is easy to follow along low cliffs to Wembury Beach.

Alternative routes — There is an alternative walking route around the Cattewater which is the official route of the SWCP.

Ascent: +150m (+445ft) / Descent: -125m (-460ft)

From Wembury, you will head to Warren Point and then cross the Yealm by ferry (seasonal) to the tiny settlement of Noss Mayo. Leave the charming village of Noss Mayo and make your way along higher and more challenging coastal cliffs, perhaps getting a glimpse of dolphins, occasional whales or seals from the lookout above Warren Beach. When you reach the River Erme you will either need to wade across within an hour either side of low tide. After some steep climbing to the high viewpoints near Westcombe Beach you will descend past Ayrmer Cove to Bigbury-on-Sea, with stunning views across to Burgh Island. Due to a lack of accommodations in Bigbury on Sea you are likely to be transferred to overnight in Salcombe.

Ascent: +605m (+1985ft) / Descent: -610m (-2000ft)

We recommend choosing your walking dates with the River Erme crossing in mind, as it should only be waded within approximately one hour either side of low tide. From Wembury, it typically takes around four hours to reach the crossing, so it is worth considering this when planning your walk. To check predicted tide times, we recommend a quick online search, as several websites provide local tidal forecasts. An inland detour is available if timings don't work or conditions are unsuitable for crossing the river; however, it is not a particularly rewarding alternative and adds extra distance to what is already a long and challenging day.

Cross the River Avon by ferry (seasonal) to Bantham this morning. Passing through part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a fairly easy path takes you past Thurlestone to the picturesque coastal sanctuary of Hope Cove. The section through to Bolt Tail and Bolt Head, and on to Salcombe is thought to be one of the most scenic on the entire South West Coast Path offering spectacular views back along the Devon Coast.

Alternative route — The alternative walking route around the Avon Estuary is well waymarked. This is an additional distance of 9 miles/14.5km.

Ascent: +445m (+1460ft) / Descent: -455m (-1490ft)

A challenging but rewarding day is in store for you today, through one of the most undeveloped and wild sections of the path. Leaving Salcombe you will take the ferry to East Portlemouth. From here pass Pig’s Nose, Ham Stone and Gammon Point enroute to Prawle Point, meaning “lookout hill”, and enjoy the views from the most southerly point in Devon. Heading on towards Start Point and its Lighthouse, the path then levels out towards the waterside village of Torcross, your stop for the evening.

As there is limited accommodation in Torcross, you may stay overnight in Dartmouth tonight, and we will arrange return taxi transfers to take you between Torcross and there. You will get a taxi back to Torcross the following morning to continue your walk.

Ascent: +565m (+1855ft) / Descent: -555m (-1820ft)

Leaving Torcross enjoy a walk along the shingle of a long flat beach passing Slapton Ley, Devon’s largest natural freshwater lake. Heading inland ascend through pastures and sheltered woodlands, before descending down to isolated coves. Passing through the village of Stoke Fleming, you will then reach the popular boating town of Dartmouth, with its castle, cobbled streets, unusual shops and restaurants.

Ascent: +325m (+1065ft) / Descent: -335m (-1100ft)

Take your final river crossing as you board the ferry across the River Dart to Kingswear. Climb through wooded slopes covered in Monterey Pines to Froward Point where you can see the remains of WWII defences. Moving on to Pudcombe Cove you will be rewarded with yet more views of the cliffs dropping down to the white-capped seas below. Passing Kingswear Castle and on to Sharkham Point you will encounter one of the most challenging sections of the South Devon path.

Reaching the limestone Peninsula of Berry Head you will follow high cliff paths past the lighthouse, before descending into the busy fishing port of Brixham. Wander Brixham’s winding streets and arcades before celebrating the end of your walk with a meal of freshly caught seafood in a quayside restaurant.

Ascent: +855m (+2805ft) / Descent: -855m (-2805ft)

After breakfast your walking holiday will come to an end. See the Travel Info section for some useful details for your onward travel.