If you’re walking the South West Coast Path in North Devon, you’re in for a stretch that’s equal parts wild and welcoming. Think dramatic headlands, sheltered woodland valleys, and long sea views that take your breath away. And when it’s time to rest, Ilfracombe is one of the most satisfying places to stop, rest and refuel.
Ilfracombe is about 42.5 miles from Minehead, making it a brilliant goal if you’re starting at the official beginning of the trail, or a rewarding waypoint if you’re walking the North Devon coast in sections.
In this post we’ll explore one of the best-loved parts of the South West Coast Path in North Devon, from Minehead to Ilfracombe, with walker-friendly highlights and easy detours along the way.
The South West Coast Path in North Devon at a Glance
The North Devon stretch of the South West Coast Path covers roughly 80 miles of the total 630 miles of the entire path and runs from the Somerset border right round to the Cornish border near Hartland.
Minehead to Ilfracombe
The walk from Minehead to Ilfracombe along the South West Coast Path covers around 42.5 miles. It can take between three to six days to walk this stretch depending on your daily mileage, fitness level, and how often you like to stop. The path in this area features dramatic, steep cliffs, sandy beaches, and coastal villages. The terrain can be challenging, rugged, and sometimes remote with some very steep ascents.
Planning Your Route
Every Coast Path walk is slightly different and it is definitely worth planning your route before you set out. Detours for viewpoints, food stops, tide times, or accommodation can add extra mileage to the route. A useful planning tool is the South West Coast Path Association’s distance calculator if you want to double-check your exact mileage for your walking route.
Suggested itinerary for the South West Coast Path in North Devon
A suggested itinerary with walker-friendly highlights. Below is a simple way to break the route into manageable days, with a few things to do that add meaning without turning your walk into a military operation.
Day 1 – Minehead to Porlock Weir (approx 9 miles)
This is the “we’re really doing it” day because Minehead is the official start of the National Trail. It is worth pausing before you set off to get a photo at the start.
Things to do along the way
Take a short pause for a drink and a sit down at Porlock Weir. If the weather is fine, give yourself a time to properly enjoy the views across the channel because this stretch is big on views.
Day 2 – Porlock Weir to Lynmouth or Lynton (approx 12 miles)
This is where Exmoor comes into its own. The coastline becomes more dramatic along this stretch of the Coast Path and you start to feel that particular “coast path energy” that’s hard to describe until you’re in it.
Things to do along the way
Photographers love this section of the Coast Path so make sure you keep your camera handy here to capture those stunning landscape photos. Even on grey days, the landscape has real presence.
Both Lynmouth and Lynton are worthy of a proper rest stop to refuel, restock, and give your body a break.
Day 3 – Lynmouth or Lynton to Combe Martin (approx 14 miles)
At 14 miles, this stretch is often one of the bigger days for many walkers and covers changing terrain, from cliffs to woodland to open views again.
Things to do along the way
A slow ramble through the wooded valleys along this stretch is a real treat and feels surprisingly lush and sheltered compared to the exposed clifftops.
If 14 miles is too much for one day and you’d prefer shorter daily distances, you can split this section into more days, especially if you want time for slower mornings, longer lunches, and less achy legs. If this is preferable, consider adding in overnight stays in Countisbury or the Hunter’s Inn area before heading on to Combe Martin and Ilfracombe.
Day 4 or Day 5 – Combe Martin to Ilfracombe (approx 5.5 miles)
This final stretch is much shorter but also very satisfying as Ilfracombe is a great place to either end your walk along the South West Coast Path in North Devon or have a brief stop over as there are great options for rest and also plenty to do and see.
Arriving in Ilfracombe
Once you’ve arrived in Ilfracombe, you have definitely earned a good rest. If you’re feeling depleted, now is the time for a hot shower, fresh clothes, some comfort food and an early night. If you have any energy left, an evening stroll down to the harbour should help you get ready for bed.
If you’re taking a rest day, Ilfracombe won’t disappoint. You’re still by the sea but can enjoy a well-deserved break. Or visit all the wonderful things there are to do in and around Ilfracombe.
Staying in Ilfracombe
We know what tired legs need, and we’re very happy to be your stopover while you explore this stretch of the trail.
A Walking Route Around Ilfracombe
Whilst in Ilfracombe, you find yourself feeling restless and desiring a short local walking route with big views, the South West Coast Path has a walk around Ilfracombe and the Torrs, a rugged area also known as the Seven Hills, with wide views across the Bristol Channel.
Tips for Walking the South West Coast Path in North Devon
Pack plenty of layers for your trip even when the forecast looks fine and dry. The Coast Path has a habit of changing the rules when you least expect it. Starting earlier than you think on longer days is also recommended as this can buys you time for unplanned pauses along the route. Pack plenty of plasters as blister care is not optional.
Dog-friendly walks on the South West Coast Path in North Devon
Walking the South West Coast Path in North Devon with a dog can be an absolute joy, especially around Ilfracombe where you’ve got options for both big views and gentler leg-stretches. We spoke to local dog walker Julie Bennett and her dog Nelson (who has his own Instagram account) who shared some of their favourite local walking routes with us.
For a classic coastal loop, Julie, her husband and Nelson love walking on the Torrs, with the Hillsborough to Hele stretch offering that satisfying mix of sea air, rugged scenery, and an easy “out and back” feel if you’re keeping it flexible. If you want something steadier and more sheltered, Route 27 near the reservoir is a great shout for a calmer wander, and if you’re happy to go slightly further afield, the paths around Heanton make a lovely change of pace when you fancy more countryside than cliff edge. As always on this stretch, it’s worth keeping dogs on a lead around livestock and near cliff edges, particularly in windy weather.
Whether you’re tackling the whole South West Coast Path or simply walking it in sections, the Minehead to Ilfracombe stretch is a beautiful beginning. It’s wild in places, peaceful in others, and it’s challenging enough to feel like an achievement, but also offers plenty of moments that feel peaceful and quietly restorative.
Why The Carlton is such a great place to stay
If Ilfracombe is one of your stops along the South West Coast path in North Devon, we’d love to welcome you to The Carlton for a well-earned rest, a great meal, and a comfortable night’s sleep and that feeling of being looked after after a long day on the trail. Get in touch to book your stay at The Carlton and let us help you plan your journey along the South West Coast Path in North Devon.
Call 01271 862446 or email eliot@ilfracombecarlton.co.uk to book your stay today.
Need more convincing? Find out why our guests rate us as one of the best hotels in North Devon.