The best walks and hikes around Kingswear

Yes, there are over 50 marked hiking trails around Kingswear. The routes range from easy riverside strolls to more challenging coastal treks, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the mix of sheltered woodland paths along the River Dart, and the well-maintained trails that lead to historic landmarks.

Absolutely. A great option is the Dartmouth Castle & Compass Cove loop. It's a moderate 10.3 km (6.4 mi) route that combines beautiful coastal scenery with views of the historic Dartmouth Castle.

Kingswear is very dog-friendly. Most coastal and woodland paths are suitable for dogs, but it's wise to keep them on a lead, especially near cliff edges and livestock. Many local pubs and cafes also welcome well-behaved dogs, making it a great destination for you and your four-legged companion.

For a shorter, easier walk that's great for families, consider the loop to Pudcombe Cove. This 6 km (3.7 mi) trail is mostly gentle and leads to a secluded cove, offering a nice adventure without being too strenuous.

The Daymark Tower is a prominent feature on many local walks. A fantastic route that includes it is The Daymark Tower & Inner Froward Point loop. This easy 4.7 km (2.9 mi) walk provides excellent views from the historic navigational tower.

Yes, the area is rich with National Trust properties. You can hike to Coleton Fishacre, a 1920s Arts and Crafts house with beautiful gardens. The Coleton Fishacre and Froward Point loop is a popular 7.9 km (4.9 mi) moderate hike that takes you right past the estate.

For walks heading towards Dartmouth, the National Trust car park at Little Dartmouth is a popular and well-regarded starting point with signed paths. For routes exploring the coast towards Brixham, you can often find parking near Coleton Camp, which serves as a good base for several circular trails.

Many walks can be planned to include a stop for refreshments. Kingswear itself has several pubs and cafes near the river. A popular option is to take a walk along the Dart Valley Trail and then use the ferry to cross to Dartmouth or Dittisham, where you'll find a wider selection of establishments for a well-earned break.

Yes, Kingswear is accessible via the Dartmouth Steam Railway from Paignton and by various bus services. The passenger ferry from Dartmouth runs frequently, allowing you to easily start or end a walk on either side of the river. This makes it simple to plan one-way hikes and return via public transport.

The terrain is varied. You'll find dramatic, rugged paths along the South West Coast Path with some steep climbs and descents. Inland and along the Dart Estuary, the trails are often more sheltered, passing through ancient woodlands and rolling fields on gentler gradients.

For a more strenuous day out, the Froward Point and Man Sands loop is a great choice. This 14 km (8.7 mi) route involves over 400 meters of climbing and rewards you with visits to secluded beaches and historic batteries along the coast.