Best winter walks in North Devon
A stroll along the coast is a must when staying at Ruda Holiday Park this winter. North Devon is an ideal setting for a winter getaway: rugged coastlines, dramatic skies, and quieter trails make it perfect for a crisp, refreshing walk from your cosy holiday park base.
We’ve rounded up some top trails to try on your next visit:
Croyde beach – right on your doorstep
Croyde is famous for its surf, but in winter it’s perfect for peaceful walks across its stretch of sand. With dunes and dramatic headlands it’s the ideal backdrop for a romantic getaway.
Start your stroll from Ruda Holiday Park’s entrance and wander the full length of the bay. You can even extend your walk to Saunton Sands for a longer adventure.
Hangman walk – Combe Martin
Just a short distance from our Combe Martin Beach Holiday Park - closed over winter – this adventurous walk takes you up through the spectacular Little Hangman and Great Hangman hills – the highest cliffs in southern Britain.
Follow the South West Coast Path west from Combe Martin, climbing steadily for some incredible views over the Bristol Channel and Exmoor. On a clear winter’s day, you might even spot the Welsh coastline glimmering across the water. Finish off in a cosy local café and watch the waves lap at the sandy bay.
Woolacombe beach
Three miles of golden sand, rolling dunes and stunning sea views out to Lundy Island make Woolacombe Beach a winter walker’s paradise. Start from the village and stroll toward Putsborough Sands, following the shoreline or taking the dune path above the beach for a different perspective.
Stop in at the quaint Porthole café above the dunes on Marine Drive and enjoy some fresh local produce. If you’re really hardy – and have a good winter wetsuit – why not stop for a body board or paddle? Apparently it’s good for you!
Baggy Point
This National Trust headland offers one of the most rewarding short walks in North Devon. Starting from the National Trust car park just outside Croyde, follow the coastal path out to the tip of Baggy Point. The views across to Woolacombe and Morte Point are incredible, especially in the low winter light.
Pop into the Thatch for a warm drink afterwards and maybe even catch some live music.
Heddon Valley to Heddon’s Mouth
For a sheltered winter walk, head to Heddon Valley near Parracombe – a hidden gem managed by the National Trust. The path winds along the River Heddon through ancient woodland before opening out to Heddon’s Mouth, where the river meets the sea in a dramatic rocky cove.
The National Trust visitor centre has a small selection of refreshments, or you can tuck into a good Sunday roast at The Hunter’s Inn, directly on route from your walk.
Whatever your adventure, return to a cosy lodge at Ruda and enjoy cosying up as the night draws in. Whether you prefer windswept beaches or peaceful woodland trails, winter in North Devon is the perfect time to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy nature at its most dramatic.
