Walks in the South West

Explore the diverse landscape of the South West on foot. Here's a selection of great walks by county, taking in coastline, hillforts, woodland, countryside and more across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire. Navigate through these to find your local walk, perfect for getting some fresh air as spring emerges.

Visiting this spring 

Our gardens, parks, cafés, shops and countryside locations are open to visit. Subject to government confirmation, we're planning to reopen houses in England and Wales from 17 May, and in Northern Ireland from 24 May. Advance booking for visits helps us keep everyone safe and socially distanced. At quieter times such as weekdays, booking shouldn't be necessary, but to guarantee entry we recommend booking in advance, especially at weekends and bank holidays. Please check the property webpage before you visit and follow government guidance.

More details on what's open
Walking on the South West coast path near Pencarrow Head, Cornwall

Walks in Cornwall 

The National Trust conserves and cares for miles of coast and foot paths for walking around Cornwall. With so many types of walks for all abilities, you can find the right trail for you.

Find a Cornish walk
A family enjoying a walk amongst the daffodils at Saltram, Devon

Walks in Devon 

Here's a selection of our some of our favourite walks in Devon. As spring unfolds, soak up the views from Devon's rolling hills and rugged coast, take shorter walks in parks and gardens or circular walks on Dartmoor or Exmoor.

Local walks
The garden at Kingston Lacy in the spring
Walking trail 

Walks in Dorset

Here are some suggestions of Dorset's top walks to see spring flowers blooming and the countryside waking up after winter. There's plenty of places choose from with coastal rambles, formal garden strolls and countryside walks.

Walks around Dorset
A view from Crickley Hill scarp
Walking trail 

Walks in Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds

A walk through the woodlands, valleys and open spaces of the Cotswolds and Gloucestershire is a wonderful way to see spring unfolding. Here are a selection of the area's top walking routes.

Walks in Gloucestershire
Crocus growing in spring

Walks in Somerset 

There are few better ways to enjoy the outdoors than by exploring the countryside around Somerset. We've put together a few of the top spring walks for you to enjoy - there are plenty to try.

Walks around Somerset
A view from Whitesheet Hill

Walks in Wiltshire 

Take a walk through the woodland and over the hills of Wiltshire. What better way to soak up the history and mystery of Wiltshire's ancient monuments and countryside than on a walk as spring transforms the scenery?

Walks in Wiltshire

More outdoors inspiration

Friends enjoy their takeaway drinks on a wintry day in Saltram garden

Walks in the South West with a café  

Whether you’re looking for fuel to kick-start a ramble on the coast, or are returning from a gentle stroll in the woods, you’ll find these kiosks, cafés and tea-rooms are great places to pick up a takeaway treat. What's more, every visit you make and piece of cake you buy helps us carry on looking after special places for everyone to enjoy, for ever.

the bear hut at Killerton, Devon with daffodils

Top gardens to visit in the South West 

Here's our pick of the most beautiful, tranquil, exciting and inspiring gardens in the South West to walk through as spring blooms. Come sunshine or showers, these special places are filled with fresh air and tranquillity.