Newton Abbot Walks

This pleasant stroll follows the banks of the River Lemon as it flows through Newton Abbot’s Riverside Park. The park features well maintained paths, serene picnic spots, and opportunities to observe local wildlife along the riverbanks. It’s a popular choice for families and dog walkers seeking a tranquil escape along the river but also close to town.

This self-guided trail invites walkers to explore Newton Abbot’s historic sites and architectural gems at their own pace. Highlights include St. Leonard’s Tower, the remains of an ancient chapel, and Market Square, where the town’s bustling market has been held since the 13th century. Information boards along the route provide insights into the town’s rich history.

Situated on the outskirts of Newton Abbot, Hackney Marshes Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The reserve features wetlands, reed beds, and grasslands along the banks of the River Teign, providing habitat for a variety of bird species. The flat, easy trails are ideal for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting.

Located near Newton Abbot, Haccombe Woods offers a peaceful woodland walk with ancient trees and a carpet of bluebells in spring. The circular trail through the woods allows visitors to explore this tranquil setting and enjoy glimpses of local wildlife amidst the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy.

Located on the outskirts of Newton Abbot, Hackney Marshes is a peaceful nature reserve featuring wetlands and grasslands teeming with birdlife. A network of flat, easy trails allows visitors to explore the reserve and enjoy views of the River Teign, making it a serene spot for birdwatching and nature walks.

Stretching from Newton Abbot to the coastal town of Teignmouth, the River Teign Walk is a popular route that follows the tranquil banks of the River Teign. This leisurely walk takes you through meadows, woodlands, and pastures, offering glimpses of local wildlife and scenic viewpoints along the way. It’s an ideal route for birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful ambience of the river.

Located near Tiverton, a short drive from Newton Abbot, the Grand Western Canal offers a scenic walking route along its tranquil waters. The canal path winds through peaceful countryside and nature reserves, where walkers can spot wildlife such as otters and kingfishers. The route is flat and well-maintained, suitable for walkers of all ages and abilities.

Although not directly starting from Newton Abbot, the South West Coast Path is easily accessible by car or public transport from nearby towns. This long distance trail stretches along the entire South Devon coastline, offering walkers a chance to explore rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and historic harbours. Sections of the path near Dartmouth and Salcombe provide particularly scenic coastal walks within a reasonable drive from Newton Abbot.

The Newton Abbot Town Trail is a self-guided walking tour that winds through the town centre, showcasing its historic landmarks and notable buildings. Highlights include Market Square, where the bustling market has been held since medieval times, St. Leonard’s Tower, a remnant of a 14th-century chapel, and Courtenay Park with its ornate bandstand and picturesque lake. Information boards along the trail provide historical context and stories of the town’s development.

This walking trail follows the route of the historic Stover Canal, which once transported clay from local mines to the Teign Estuary. The canal path passes by remnants of the canal’s industrial heritage, including locks and a limekiln, offering insights into Devon’s industrial past. Stover Country Park, with its woodland trails and tranquil lake, provides opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Although starting from Teignmouth, this nearby trail offers a historical exploration of the twin towns of Teignmouth and Shaldon, which are easily accessible from Newton Abbot. The trail passes by historic buildings, maritime landmarks, and points of interest related to the town’s maritime and industrial heritage. Highlights include the Teignmouth Pier, the Old Quay, and the quaint streets of Shaldon village.

The Teign Gorge section of the South West Coast Path is a challenging but rewarding coastal hike that starts near Teignmouth and follows the dramatic cliffs overlooking the River Teign. This route offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and secluded coves, making it a favourite among experienced hikers. The path continues towards Shaldon and beyond, providing opportunities to explore historic villages and scenic viewpoints along the way.

This long-distance trail follows the historic route used to transport granite from Dartmoor to the coast, passing through varied landscapes and historic industrial sites. The section near Newton Abbot follows the River Teign, offering a mix of riverside paths and woodland trails. The full trail extends from Haytor on Dartmoor to the port of Teignmouth, providing a challenging but rewarding hike that spans approximately 18 miles.

Just an hour’s drive from the charm and comfort of Newton Abbot you’ll find Burgh Island, a remarkable destination offering visitors a captivating retreat on a rugged coastal island steeped in history and luxury. Perched off the South Devon coast, this iconic island is home to a truly spectacular Art Deco hotel, renowned for its distinctive charm, panoramic views, and storied past.

Burgh Island’s history dates back centuries, with the current hotel structure and Art Deco architecture reflecting the glamour of its era, attracting affluent guests and celebrities seeking respite and inspiration. The hotel’s design and décor evoke a bygone era of elegance, with each room and suite meticulously appointed to blend modern comforts with vintage allure. As a result of its association with glitz and glamour, Burgh Island has hosted a roster of famous guests over the years. Renowned crime novelist Agatha Christie was a frequent visitor and drew inspiration from the island for her novels. The Beatles also famously stayed here, contributing to its reputation as a retreat favoured by artists, writers, and musicians seeking indulgent escapes and creative refuge.

Within the hotel, you’ll find a range of accommodations, each uniquely named after notable past guests. The rooms and suites boast stunning views of the sea or the hotel’s landscaped gardens, providing a serene retreat hidden from the everyday. The island’s privileged location ensures breathtaking coastal vistas and exclusive access to Burgh Island’s personal stretch of beach. Accessible only by a unique sea tractor at high tide or by foot along a causeway at low tide, arriving at Burgh Island is an adventure in itself.

A stay at Burgh Island Hotel offers more than just accommodation, guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the hotel’s restaurants, enjoy cocktails in the Palm Court Lounge, or simply wander the island’s paths to take in the stunning coastal scenery akin to the walks in Newton Abbot. Whether for a romantic getaway, a special occasion, or simply to escape the ordinary, Burgh Island promises an unforgettable retreat amidst South Devon’s captivating coastal landscapes with great proximity to Newton Abbot and the many walking paths nearby.