Best walks from Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot Station to Torquay Station

A route that snakes through the countryside largely following the John Musgrave Heritage Trail, on footpaths, bridleways, country lanes and pavements through woodland and fields and a geopark. Generally good paths that probably don't get too muddy in winter; some quiet road sections and one big hill out of Coffinswell with great views. Mostly follows the well-signposted John Musgrave Heritage Trail. Half-hourly trains at both ends. Kingskerswell makes a good halfway break with refreshments, toilets and a bus link.

Tough: steep ascents. 17km.

The Edginswell to North Whilborough section is all on narrow road where you may have to step into the hedge to let cars pass, though the roads are quiet.

Lunch: Shops, pubs and cafes at Kingskerswell, plus a cafe and toilets at Cockington.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Newton Abbot Station to Teignmouth Station

Walking along the tidal zone was beautiful, exciting; It's a special and beautiful route; a lovely walk mostly along the River Teign. A unique intertidal foreshore walk along the River Teign, with significant stretches between tidal high and low water that are covered by the sea for several hours each tide. The surface is predominantly shingle, frequently damp, often covered in slippery eel grass and seaweed and with a slight camber and sharp shells and debris underfoot. The Shaldon-to-Teignmouth stretch is on pavements and good paths. Includes the lower third of the Templer Way from Newton Abbot Town Quay to Shaldon, with Templer Way signs to follow. Tide tables are posted on Town Quay in Newton Abbot and in Teignmouth and Shaldon, and available online (use Teignmouth as location). A ferry runs from Shaldon to Teignmouth. Toilets in Newton Abbot, Shaldon and Teignmouth.

10km.

This is a tidal route that is dangerous if you have not checked tide times: the intertidal stretch between the A380 bridge and Shaldon should not be attempted above half tide (ideally within 2 hours of low water). Never walk out onto the exposed mud banks or short-cut across coves such as Netherton, Coombe Cellars or Arch Brook, where the soft mud is easy to sink into and very hard to escape. The surface is slippery and uneven with many trip hazards; wear walking shoes or boots with good soles.

Lunch: Cafes at Shaldon allow a more leisurely stop without tide worries.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route