Walking the Jurassic Coast Path in East Devon? It’s honestly one of the best ways to get up close to some of England’s oldest, boldest cliffs. I’ve picked out my top three trails here—they really deliver on those Triassic cliff views and endless sea panoramas.
If you’re into geology, wild coastlines, or just want a bit of quiet by the water, these trails are a solid place to start. I chose them for their easy navigation, epic photo spots, and because, well, they just showcase the Jurassic Coast at its best.
Let me walk you through my favorite routes, what makes each one stand out, and a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
Overview of the Jurassic Coast Path in East Devon
East Devon’s stretch of the Jurassic Coast feels like a living museum shaped by ancient forces. As I wandered these paths, steep red cliffs, hidden coves, and stone layers told stories millions of years old.
What Makes the Jurassic Coast Unique
The Jurassic Coast is England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. It runs for 95 miles along the south, but in East Devon, the landscape feels wild and untouched.
When I walked here, those rock layers felt like more than just scenery. They hold 185 million years of earth’s history, starting with the Triassic in the west and ending up with the Cretaceous in the east.
East Devon’s signature? Those striking red cliffs—ancient sandstone that’s constantly shifting. Erosion, landslides, and the sea keep changing the coastline, so every walk feels a bit different, especially after a storm.
Triassic Cliffs and Rock Formations
Most of the cliffs here are Triassic sandstone. Their deep red color pops against the blue sea and green fields. I think the stretch between Exmouth and Sidmouth offers the best cliff views, with the path hugging the edge.
These rocks are about 250 million years old. They formed in a massive desert, which gives them that wild, rusty color.
You’ll spot:
- Sharp drop-offs and stepped cliff shapes
- Secret coves like Ladram Bay, with those crazy sea stacks
- Bands of softer and harder rock making cool patterns
The cliffs are never still—rain and sea spray keep sculpting them. I’ve seen fresh layers exposed and even caught a rock fall or two. It’s a reminder the coast is always changing.
Fossils and Geological History
This coastline is famous for fossils. In East Devon, you probably won’t stumble on giant dinosaur bones, but I’ve found smaller marine fossils in the pebbles and loose rocks.
Most of the Triassic rocks here formed before big dinosaurs showed up, but I’ve spotted plant fossils and traces of ancient creatures. The cliffs show clear stripes where the environment changed over time.
It’s like a timeline under your feet:
- Triassic Period (Red Sandstone Cliffs)
- Jurassic Period (Limestone, heading east)
- Cretaceous Period (White Chalk, near Dorset)
As I walked, the geology shifted. Every section revealed a different era, which made the whole path feel connected to something much bigger.
Top 3 Jurassic Coast Trails for Triassic Cliffs and Sea Views
East Devon’s Jurassic Coast is all about those dramatic red cliffs and big, open sea views. The trails here take you past ancient rocks and offer plenty of spots to chill and soak it all in.
Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton Coastal Walk
This route is a personal favorite. It’s simple to follow and loaded with bold Triassic cliffs. Starting from Exmouth’s waterfront, the trail heads east along the clifftops. The red sandstone cliffs light up against the deep blue sea.
The path is well-marked and not too steep. I’d suggest walking boots—mud sneaks up after rain. Benches along the way give you time to look back at the coastline and the Exe Estuary. The trail finishes at Budleigh Salterton, a pebble beach town that’s perfect for a snack or even a dip if you’re feeling brave.
Distance: About 5 miles
Highlights: Triassic cliffs, clifftop views, pebble beach at Budleigh Salterton
Type: Linear walk
Sidmouth to Branscombe Trail
If you love a mix of landscapes and steady sea views, this trail from Sidmouth to Branscombe is a winner. You start at Sidmouth’s seafront and climb gently through fields before hitting those high clifftops.
A lot of this section runs above Ladram Bay, famous for its tall red sea stacks. There are plenty of spots to pause and take in the English Channel. I always find this stretch a bit quieter, which is a nice bonus if you want some space.
You’ll end up in Branscombe, a village with thatched cottages and a quiet pebble beach. There’s a cozy pub or two and a tearoom for a well-earned break.
Distance: About 7 miles
Highlights: Red stacks in Ladram Bay, panoramic sea views, peaceful walking
Type: Linear walk
Seaton to Beer and Branscombe Route
For a walk that combines history and scenery, I usually go for Seaton to Beer and Branscombe. You kick off in Seaton and head north-east along the white chalk cliffs toward Beer, a fishing village with a sheltered shingle beach.
From Beer, you climb over Hooken Cliffs—these are crumbly and white, a big contrast to the red cliffs back west. If you want a longer adventure, loop back through the countryside for a circular walk.
The clifftop views toward Branscombe are huge, stretching down the coast. I’d take time to hang out in Beer’s cafes before moving on. Good boots are a must—some paths get steep and slippery.
Distance: About 6 miles (one way)
Highlights: Chalk cliffs, fishing village of Beer, open coastal views
Type: Linear or circular walk
Trail Highlights and Must-See Landmarks
The Jurassic Coast in East Devon is packed with wild geology and unforgettable views. As I walk here, I pass colorful cliffs, one-off rock formations, and sweeping sea vistas.
Orcombe Point and the Triassic Red Cliffs
Orcombe Point marks the official start of the Jurassic Coast, just outside Exmouth. When I walk this bit, those vivid red cliffs always blow me away—they date back over 250 million years. The color comes from iron-rich minerals in the rock.
There’s the Geoneedle, a monument built from local stone samples. The path is easy to follow, with spots to sit and just take it all in.
The cliffs rise straight above the sea, giving you big views in both directions. That red-and-blue contrast? It’s a classic photo stop.
Ladram Bay’s Sea Stacks and Arches
Ladram Bay is famous for its wild sea stacks and natural arches. The trail above the bay leads to a bunch of viewpoints where you can look down on these giant pillars of sandstone.
At low tide, I like to wander the shoreline and get up close to the rocks. You’ll see bands of red and rust from the Triassic era. The route is well-marked and not too steep, so you can take your time.
This spot is all about the dramatic scenery, with arches and stacks that feel almost otherworldly. Great for photos, and you’ll probably spot a few seabirds circling overhead.
Branscombe Beach and Beer Head
The section from Branscombe Beach to Beer Head is quieter but just as beautiful. The pebble beach sits below tall, white cliffs—such a contrast to the red rocks earlier on.
Heading toward Beer Head, the cliffs get even more dramatic, rising steeply above the water. On clear days, the views here stretch forever.
Beer Head is a local landmark, and the panoramic coastal vistas are always worth a pause. I often stop to watch boats or look for wildlife along the clifftops. It’s peaceful, and the mix of cliffs, green hills, and wide-open sea is tough to beat.
Planning Your Walk Along the Jurassic Coast
Before you set off, it’s worth sorting out parking or checking public transport options, plus thinking about the best time of year for walking. Some trails get long or muddy, and the path can change after storms or landslides.
Parking and Public Transport Options
Parking’s pretty straightforward near main spots like Exmouth, Sidmouth, and Seaton. You’ll find paid car parks by the beaches and town centers, but they fill up fast in summer—try to arrive by 8 AM if you can.
If you’d rather skip the car, local buses link up key points along the trail. Buses run between Exmouth, Sidmouth, Seaton, and Lyme Regis, so one-way walks are easy. Double-check timetables, especially outside school holidays.
Sometimes I use park-and-ride lots to dodge parking fees or crowds. Just keep an eye on closing times—some car parks lock up in the evening.
Best Time to Walk and Estimated Duration
For the best weather and views, I usually aim for late spring to early autumn (May to September). The air’s warmer, and the cliffs are less slippery. Early summer brings quieter paths and wildflowers everywhere.
Walks in East Devon range from short strolls to all-day hikes. For example:
- Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton: 5 miles (around 2 hours)
- Budleigh Salterton to Sidmouth: 7 miles (about 3 hours)
- Sidmouth to Seaton: 10 miles (4-5 hours, depending on the path)
Timing depends on your pace and how muddy the trails are. After rain, you’ll probably slow down, and landslide diversions can add a bit of distance.
Safety Tips and Challenging Sections
Parts of the Jurassic Coast Path in East Devon cross high, exposed cliffs. I always stay well back from the edge and keep an eye out for warning signs—especially after heavy rain. Landslides are no joke out here.
Some sections get pretty narrow or uneven. Trust me, you’ll want sturdy shoes with good grip.
After storms or wet weather, mud and slippery footpaths appear almost instantly. I usually bring walking poles for balance in those spots.
If I see a damaged or roped-off route, I don’t risk it. Landslides can happen fast.
Bring enough water and snacks, since some stretches have no shops at all. I always check for route changes before I leave, because paths sometimes close with barely any notice—especially in winter.
Mobile signal drops out in places, so I save offline maps just in case.
Wildlife, Nature, and Local Experiences
Walking the Jurassic Coast Path in East Devon is a treat for anyone who loves wildlife, sweeping nature reserves, and lively seaside towns. Along the way, I spot wildflowers, insects, and all sorts of birdlife while wandering through friendly villages and old historic corners.
Wildflowers, Butterflies, and Insects
Spring and summer here burst with color—wildflowers spill over the cliff edges, meadows, and tangled hedgerows in pink, yellow, and purple.
I often spot oxeye daisies, sea thrift, and wild thyme. These blooms draw in clouds of butterflies, like the small tortoiseshell and red admiral.
On warm days, butterflies flit everywhere. I watch bumblebees and dragonflies buzzing around, too.
It’s easy to find insects in the open grasslands above the coast. Grasshoppers chirp in the taller grasses. Sometimes, I stumble across ladybirds or green shield bugs just hanging out on the leaves.
As the sun sets, moths start to appear and add to the buzz of insect life.
Here’s a quick list of insects and wildflowers I come across most often:
- Butterflies: Painted lady, Peacock, Meadow brown
- Bees: Honeybee, Carder bee
- Wildflowers: Foxglove, Birdsfoot trefoil, Sea campion
Otter Estuary Nature Reserve and River Otter
The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, tucked near Budleigh Salterton, feels like one of the most peaceful places along the walk.
I love watching wading birds—avocets, egrets, and curlews—feeding in the mudflats at low tide. Every now and then, a kingfisher darts over the water in a flash of blue.
Marsh plants and reeds line the riverbanks, giving frogs and damselflies a bit of shelter.
When I follow the footpath beside the River Otter, the sound of flowing water and distant bird calls fills the air. The reserve has well-marked trails and benches, perfect for birdwatching.
Sometimes, if I’m lucky, I spot otters at dawn or dusk where the river meets the sea.
Accessible footpaths and info boards pop up here and there, so it’s easy to learn about the local plants and animals. Binoculars are always worth packing for this stretch.
Coastal Wildlife and Seaside Towns
The Jurassic Coastline bursts with sea life, birds, and these old seaside towns that seem to hold a thousand stories.
I like to stand on the cliffs and watch gulls, fulmars, and cormorants catching the wind. Sometimes, if the morning’s quiet enough, I’ll spot seals lounging on the rocks below—especially near those tucked-away coves. Every now and then, dolphins show up in the deeper water, and honestly, it never gets old.
Wandering through towns and villages like Sidmouth, Seaton, and Budleigh Salterton always feels a bit like stepping into a postcard. The local shops and cafés draw you in, and those stone-lined streets invite you to slow down. Each village really does have its own vibe, whether it’s the dramatic red cliffs or rows of thatched cottages.
Plenty of these towns throw seasonal markets and events, so I get to taste local food and ridiculously fresh seafood. The coast path weaves right through or hugs the edge of these lively communities. That makes it a breeze to grab an ice cream or duck into a quirky heritage building.
People here are genuinely friendly. More than once, a local has pointed me toward a secret wildlife spot or a hidden path down to the beach.
