The best walks and hikes around Wembury

Yes, Wembury is a great place to walk with your dog. Many trails, including those through Plymbridge Woods, are popular with dog walkers. However, be mindful that some coastal paths pass through areas with grazing livestock, so it's important to keep your dog under control and on a lead where required.

For a shorter, accessible walk, the Wembury Point loop with views of Great Mew Stone is a great option. At just over 2 miles (3.6 km), it follows coastal grasslands and offers fantastic views without being too strenuous, making it suitable for most family members.

Many walks start from Wembury Beach, where there is a pay-and-display car park. This provides direct access to the South West Coast Path and other local circular routes. For inland walks, places like Plymbridge Woods also have dedicated parking areas. Public transport options are limited, so arriving by car is often the most convenient way to access the trailheads.

While the immediate coastal paths are more focused on nature, several circular routes pass through or near villages with pubs. You can plan a route that starts or finishes in Wembury village itself to have refreshments after your hike. The area around Heybrook Bay also offers options for a post-walk break.

The section of the South West Coast Path around Wembury is known for its dramatic scenery, with rugged cliffs and stunning sea views. The path can be hilly with some steep sections, so a moderate level of fitness is required. A popular route that includes part of this path is the Heybrook Bay & Bovisand Beach loop, which showcases the classic coastal terrain.

Yes, the River Yealm estuary offers a more sheltered and tranquil walking experience compared to the exposed coast. The Wembury beach & the River Yealm loop is a perfect example, combining coastal scenery with a peaceful path that follows the river inland through woodland.

For panoramic views of the coastline, Plymouth Sound, and the iconic Mewstone, head to Wembury Point. This headland is a highly-regarded local spot for its stunning vistas. Many coastal trails, like the Heybrook Bay & Wembury Point loop, are designed to maximize these impressive sea views.

Wembury offers a range of difficulties. There are many easy, relatively flat walks under 5 miles, particularly around the river and on certain coastal loops. However, routes along the South West Coast Path are generally moderate, involving steep climbs and descents. For a serious challenge, the Wembury Bay – Bovisand Beach loop from Staddiscombe is a long and demanding hike with significant elevation gain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning contrast between the rugged coastal paths and the serene, wooded riverside trails. The well-maintained paths and clear signposting are also frequently mentioned as highlights.

There are over 50 hiking routes to explore around Wembury. These range from short, easy strolls perfect for an afternoon to challenging all-day treks along the coast, offering plenty of options for every fitness level.

Hikers in Wembury are drawn to several key areas:

• Wembury Point: A popular park and tourist attraction known for its stunning cliffside walks and views of the sea.
• National Trust - Plymbridge Woods: A highly-regarded hiking area featuring a river valley, oak woods, and trails suitable for all abilities.
• Wembury Beach: The starting point for many coastal and circular walks, famous for its rock pools and views of The Mewstone.