Coast & countryside highlights

D evon
Cornwall

Devon

A hidden gem on the North Devon coast flourishing with wildlife. Discover the historic woodlands with its Iron Age remains and walk in the footsteps of Rudyard Kipling, who explored the area as a school boy.

Lundy

Undisturbed by cars, Lundy Island is a granite outcrop in the Bristol Channel. There is fascinating wildlife to discover amidst the dramatic scenery, including seals and a huge variety of seabirds. The Marisco Tavern is the hub of island life.

Lydford Gorge

Take the circular walk around this famous 1½ mls long gorge, which ends with the dramatic 30m-high White Lady waterfall. An enchanting riverside walk leads through the ravine where you can 'walk the plank' over the Devil's Cauldron whirlpools.

Morte

Sand dunes and marram grass rising at the back of Woolacombe beach
© National Trust / Steve Mulberry

A stunning stretch of the North Devon coastline, boasting dramatic cliffs, secluded coves and golden beaches. There's a whole range of recreational activities to enjoy here, from walking along the South West Coast Path, to surfing at the popular Woolacombe beach.

Salcombe: Thurlestone to Torcross

The view over the Salcombe estuary from the house and garden at Overbeck's, Devon
© National Trust / Andrew Butler

A spectacular stretch of coastline in south Devon boasting dramatic cliffs, grazed open farmland and secluded sandy coves. There's lots of coastal walking to enjoy here and an array of butterflies and birds to look out for.

Watersmeet

Watersmeet is one of the most important sites for wildlife in Devon. Otters have returned to parts of the river and butterflies love the heath and woodland glades. Watersmeet House is the focal point for woodland, streamside and seaside walks.

West Exmoor Coast

Heddon's Mouth at Heddon Valley, Devon
© NTPL / Paul Wakefield

The tranquility of the West Exmoor Coast provides a haven for coastal and woodland birds. Discover the spectacular towering cliffs on an energetic walk, or retreat from the stresses of modern life with a gentle stroll along the remote heather coastal moorland.

Cornwall

Boscastle

This picturesque harbour and village on the north Cornish coast nestles in between dramatic coastline and the woodland and meadow of the lovely Valency Valley. Paths from the village lead you to cliff and valley walks.

Carnewas & Bedruthan Steps

There are spectacular clifftop views of the massive rock stacks, the Bedruthan Steps, as you walk the South West Coast Path between Carnewas and Park Head. A rebuilt cliff staircase leads down to Bedruthan beach (not NT).

The Godolphin Estate

This ancient estate offers extensive walks with fine views. You can see over west Cornwall from the top of Godolphin Hill. More than 400 archaeological features have been recorded on this historic landscape including Bronze Age enclosures.

Godrevy

The coastline from Godrevy to Navax Point is a sweep of high cliffs and sheltered coves with sandy beaches. The coves here were once the haunt of smugglers. You can walk for miles along the coast path looking out for wildlife including seals.

The Lizard and Kynance Cove

The Lizard is the most southerly point of mainland Britain. The coastline offers dramatic cliff walks, masses of rare wild flowers and fascinating geological features. Kynance Cove is a beauty spot of white sand and turquoise water.

Penrose Estate: Gunwalloe and Loe Pool

The focus of the Estate is Loe Pool, a freshwater lake which meets the sea at a dramatic shingle bank. A circular route leads you around it. Gunwalloe, where two sandy coves lie either side of the 14th-century church, is a haven for birds.

St Anthony Head

St Anthony Head overlooks the spectacular entrance to one of the world's largest natural harbours – Carrick Roads and the Fal estuary. It is the starting point for excellent coastal and sheltered creekside walks.

The National Trust

Coast & countryside highlights