Kinever Valley to Bennett's Mouth
Starting in the village of Mortehoe, follow the road as it leads you out into the countryside down a hidden wooded valley and ending up at a secret little cove by the sea.
Map
Start:
Mortehoe village car park, grid ref SS458453
1
From the village car park walk down the road next to the village post office, North Morte Road, until you reach a gate saying Bull Point Lighthouse. Go through the gate and follow the lane as it winds its way towards the coast.
Look out for...
The bright yellow flowers of gorse smell of coconut and flowers all year round, which accounts for the old folk saying 'when the gorse is in flower, it's kissing season!'
2
After about half a mile (1km), there's a footpath off to your right signed Bennett's Mouth and Lee. Take this path as it heads down hill into Kinever valley.
Plants and birds
The wonderful hidden Kinever valley is full of wild flowers, butterflies and a bubbling stream. Play poo sticks on the bridges and see how the woodland gradually gives way to gorse and grass as you get nearer the sea.
3
Follow the stream as it winds its way towards the sea. Go through a pedestrian gate and carry on all the way until you reach Bennett's Mouth.
Bennett's Mouth
This lovely hidden cove is a peaceful getaway from the busier beaches at Woolacombe. In early spring the higher rock pools are full of toad spawn and in summer the stream can provide a refreshing paddle.
4
At Bennett's Mouth take the coast path to your left as it heads up hill towards Bull Point lighthouse.
Bull Point lighthouse
The lighthouse was built in 1879 in response to numerous incidents of 'wrecking' which used to happen along the coast. Ships would be lured on to the rocks and their cargo plundered by locals. With the coming of the lighthouse, ships finally had a reliable means of navigation.
5
When you reach the lighthouse follow the tarmaced lane all the way back until you arrive at Mortehoe.
End:
Mortehoe village car park, grid ref SS458453
