As a resident of Plymouth, I’m lucky to live in a city with some of the most beautiful walks in the UK.
From stunning coastal vistas to lush woodlands, there’s something for everyone!
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, take a look at my list of the 15 best walks in Plymouth.
From the breathtaking views of Mount Batten Loop to the tranquil nature of Plymbridge Woods, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
Get your walking boots on and explore the best of Plymouth!
Mount Batten Loop
Take a stroll around the Mount Batten Loop for a scenic and enjoyable walk! This cliffside walk offers incredible views of Plymouth Sound and is a great way to take in the beauty of the city.
The path is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it the perfect walk for all ages. Along the way, you’ll come across some of Plymouth’s nature reserves, including the Mount Batten SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). The birdlife here is particularly impressive, so be sure to bring your binoculars!
There’s also a children’s play area as well as a cafe and shop to stop for refreshments.
The route is 4 miles long and can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your fitness level.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, the Mount Batten Loop is the perfect way to explore the Plymouth area.
Plym Valley Trail
Experience the beauty of nature as you wander along the Plym Valley Trail! This stunning walk takes you along the River Plym, between the city of Plymouth and the Dartmoor National Park.
With plenty of wildlife to spot along the way, from birds to rabbits, and the occasional fox, you’ll soon feel like you’ve left reality far behind.
You’ll pass by old bridges, old mills, and the remains of a Roman fort, all the while soaking up the tranquil atmosphere of the area.
Once you reach the top of the valley, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the River Plym, with its lush green banks, and the rolling hills of Dartmoor.
Enjoy a leisurely picnic, before heading back down the trail, and into the city.
The Plym Valley Trail offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Erme Estuary Walk
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you explore the Erme Estuary Walk! Located in the South Hams in Devon, this easy circular trail is approximately 5 miles long and is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The walk takes you through the stunning countryside, with views of the River Erme, the picturesque estuary and the surrounding farmland. As you walk, you’ll pass through the village of Ermington, which has a rich history and is home to a number of historic sites.
Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to spot some of the local wildlife, including otters, birds, and even deer. The route is well marked and there are plenty of benches and rest stops along the way, making it an ideal way to spend an afternoon.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a chance to explore some of the area’s natural beauty, the Erme Estuary Walk is sure to satisfy.
Plymbridge Woods
Explore the tranquil beauty of Plymbridge Woods as you meander through its lush forests and beside its sparkling streams!
Plymbridge Woods is a stunningly picturesque walk, located just outside of Plymouth, and is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The walk is just over 3 miles long and is a great way to explore the surrounding area.
A mix of woodland paths and riverside trails will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the South West, with spectacular views of the River Plym, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife.
Along your way, you’ll pass by historic bridges, stunning waterfalls, and plenty of places to stop and take in the sights.
The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness, with plenty of benches and places to rest along the route.
Plymbridge Woods is a great place for a peaceful stroll, a leisurely lunch, or an invigorating workout.
The Barbican & Sutton Harbour
Take a stroll through the charming Barbican and Sutton Harbour and discover the unique mix of old and new that gives Plymouth its unique character.
The Barbican is a picturesque area of Plymouth that’s steeped in history. It’s home to a number of historical buildings, including the Mayflower Steps, where the famous Pilgrims set sail for the New World in 1620, and the Elizabethan House, which dates back to the 16th century.
From the Barbican, you can also take in the stunning views of Plymouth Sound and the nearby islands.
Sutton Harbour is situated close to the Barbican and is a bustling port area full of activity. Here you can find a number of attractions, such as the National Marine Aquarium, the Barbican Theatre, and the Plymouth Gin Distillery.
As you wander along the quayside, you can also take in the sights of the tall ships that make their home in the harbour. It’s a great way to discover the unique maritime history of Plymouth.
Plym Estuary & Plymbridge
After exploring the Barbican and Sutton Harbour, take a journey to the gorgeous Plym Estuary and Plymbridge.
This area offers a wide variety of scenic walks, all with unique and breathtaking views.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy stroll, or a more experienced walker looking for a challenge, the Estuary and Plymbridge have something for everyone.
Start your journey at the Lynher Estuary, which is surrounded by nature reserves and offers stunning views of the Tamar Estuary and Plymouth Sound.
Take in the natural beauty and take a break at one of the picnic areas.
Then, head to Plymbridge Woods, an ancient wooded valley home to plenty of wildlife and a variety of wildflowers.
Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the breathtaking views.
Finally, take a stroll along the banks of the Plym Estuary and admire the river’s beauty.
This is a great place for bird-watching and to spend some quality time in nature.
Plymstock to Wembury
Continue your journey along the stunning South Devon coast by heading to Plymstock to Wembury for some of the most breathtaking views in the area.
From Plymstock, you can take a leisurely stroll along the South West Coast Path, which takes you along the coast of the estuary. As you walk, you’ll be able to take in the stunning scenery, which includes the wildflower meadows, the blue waters of the estuary, and the rugged cliffs of Wembury.
The path also takes you through the ruins of Harford Castle, a 15th-century fortification built by the Flemish.
You can also take a detour and visit the picturesque Wembury Beach. It’s a great spot to relax, take in the views, and enjoy some of the local wildlife.
You can also take a walk up to the top of Wembury Point to experience even more spectacular scenery. From the top, you can look out over the estuary and see the incredible views of Plymouth Sound and the Cornish coast.
There’s also a pub at the top of the hill, making it the perfect spot for a pint and a bite to eat.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Plymstock to Wembury is the perfect place for your next outdoor adventure.
Plym Valley Trail to Plymbridge
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime as you traverse the stunning Plym Valley Trail to Plymbridge. This eight-mile-long trail will take you through a wild landscape of lush meadows, tranquil rivers, and ancient woodlands – all with stunning views of Plymouth Sound and Dartmoor.
The trail is perfect for those who enjoy the peace and quiet of nature, as well as those who are looking for a more challenging and strenuous workout. Along the way, you will be able to take in the beauty of the area, including the Burrator Reservoir, the rocky outcrops of Sharp Tor, and the majestic heights of Plymbridge Woods.
As you make your way further up the trail, you will find yourself surrounded by a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and even the occasional fox. Finally, the trail culminates at Plymbridge, where you can enjoy a picnic or take in the breathtaking views of Plymouth Sound below.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, the Plym Valley Trail to Plymbridge is the perfect spot to explore and enjoy the beauty of the area.
Devil’s Point
Climb to the summit of Devil’s Point for an otherworldly experience, where you can marvel at the spectacular views of Plymouth Sound and Dartmoor. From the peak, you can also see the River Plym meandering through the valley, which leads to the sea.
On a clear day, you can even spot the Eddystone Lighthouse in the distance.
The path to the summit is quite steep, but it’s worth it for the incredible views. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and you can even take a short detour to nearby Jennycliff Bay to explore the stunning coastline.
Enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of nature as you take in the panoramic views from the top of Devil’s Point.
Plym Estuary & Saltram Country Park
Leaving Devil’s Point, I make my way to the Plym Estuary and Saltram Country Park.
This is an amazing area for walkers that want to explore the beauty of nature and take in the sights of the riverbank.
The estuary is a great place to find peace and tranquility, with a wide variety of wildlife to spot along the way.
The path winds its way along the riverbank, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
From the top of the hill, you can look out over the estuary and its meandering channels.
Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery, with benches and shady spots to relax and take in the view.
As you make your way through the park, you can find a variety of bird species, from ducks and swans to herons and ospreys.
There is also plenty of wildlife to spot, such as rabbits, foxes, badgers, and deer.
The Saltram Country Park is a great place to explore and take in the beauty of the natural world.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous outing, you’ll find something to suit your needs.
Cattewater to Wembury
From the Plym Estuary, I make my way to the Cattewater and Wembury, a stunning stretch of coastline that offers breathtaking views and a variety of wildlife.
As I walk along the path, I am surrounded by a lush green landscape, with the occasional glimpse of a passing rabbit or fox. The air is crisp and salty, and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks is calming.
I take a moment to take in the magnificent views of the estuary, with its mix of blue and green waters. I eventually reach Cattewater and the Wembury Marine Centre, which is the perfect place to explore the marine life of the area. I can take a boat trip, visit the aquarium or simply take a stroll along the beach.
The area is also home to a variety of seabirds, such as gannets, guillemots, and razorbills. As I walk, I spot a seal basking in the sun and a flock of oystercatchers flying above.
The views of the horizon are breathtaking, and I’m reminded of why this area is so special.
Plymbridge to Jennycliff
Exploring the coast from Plymbridge to Jennycliff is an incredible experience, with spectacular views and a diversity of wildlife to discover.
The walk itself is quite easy, and can be done in an hour or so, depending on how frequently you stop to take in the sights.
The walk begins at Plymbridge, with a view of the Plymouth Sound and the city beyond.
Along the way, you’ll be able to spot a variety of birds and wildlife, including Dartford warblers and fulmars.
You may also be lucky enough to see seals and porpoises swimming in the sea.
The path then continues along the coast, passing through fields and past areas of ancient woodland.
Finally, you’ll reach Jennycliff, with its rustic beach and stunning cliff views.
It’s a great spot to take a break and enjoy a picnic while watching the waves crashing against the rocks below.
The Saltram Estate
Leaving Plymbridge behind, I made my way to the Saltram Estate, an idyllic area that offers a variety of walking paths and breathtaking views. I was excited to explore the grounds and see what this special place had to offer.
The Saltram Estate is a great choice for those looking for a leisurely stroll. There are plenty of paths that meander through the woods, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of nature.
You can also take a more direct route and follow the river, enjoying the views of the water and the surrounding countryside. The estate also has a number of historic buildings and monuments, adding to the atmosphere of the area.
No matter what kind of walk you’re looking for, the Saltram Estate has it all.
Plymbridge Loop
Taking a break from the Saltram Estate, I decided to embark on the scenic Plymbridge Loop, a 4-mile circular path that takes you through some of Plymouth’s most picturesque countryside.
Right from the start, the views were spectacular, with a stunning countryside landscape stretching as far as the eye can see.
The path follows a meandering river, with numerous quaint bridges to cross along the way. The track is well-marked, and I was never in any doubt as to which way to turn.
The walk is made even more enjoyable by the abundance of wildlife to be seen, including pheasants, rabbits, and deer. I was also lucky enough to spot a pair of kingfishers, which were a real treat.
The route also takes you past many fascinating historical sites, including the remains of an old Roman fort.
All in all, the Plymbridge Loop is a great way to experience the beauty of Plymouth countryside and discover its hidden history.
Plymstock to Torpoint Ferry
From Plymstock, I set off on an unforgettable journey across the River Tamar, aboard the Torpoint Ferry.
As the ferry cut through the still waters, I was enchanted by the picturesque view of the Devon and Cornish coastline. The sun was setting, setting alight the sky with a dazzling array of oranges, purples, and pinks. The air was fresh and the birds were singing, making for a truly incredible experience.
The journey across the River Tamar lasted around 15 minutes and gave me plenty of time to admire the stunning scenery.
As we reached the other side, I felt my spirits lift as I made my way towards Torpoint. I wandered along the coast, soaking up the sights, sounds, and smells of this beautiful town.
I was mesmerized by the ancient buildings, cobbled streets, and rolling hills. It was an incredible experience that I will never forget.
Conclusion
I’ve explored the best walks in Plymouth, and I’m sure I’ve missed a few.
I’ve taken in some stunning views of the sea, and explored some beautiful woodlands that will stay with me for a long time.
No matter what your preference, there’s something here for everyone, and I’m sure I’ll be back soon to explore some more.
Every one of these walks has been a delight, a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and explore some of Plymouth’s hidden gems.
If you’re ever in the area, don’t miss out on these fantastic walks.