Walk - Westward Ho! to Cornborough Cliffs

1.5 miles (2.5 km)

Westward Ho! - EX39 1JS Westward Ho!

Easy - This 1 mile long section of old railway line has been improved to make it possible for the elderly, very young and wheelchair users to experience this scenic part of the Coast Path.  

An easy walk from the outskirts of Westward Ho! along an old railway line to a viewing point on Cornborough Cliffs offering spectacular views across Bideford Bay towards Clovelly and Hartland Point. A good walk in spring, when the sea breezes whip the waves into white horses, seabirds nest among clumps of pink thrift on cliff ledges and stonechats call from bushes laden with blossom. Also good in autumn, when the noisy migrant birds start gathering in the bushes, ready to leave, and the gorse and heather are vivid in the heathland.

There are a range of wonderful places to lay your head near the Coast Path for a well-earned sleep. From large and luxurious hotels, to small and personable B&B's, as well as self-catering options and campsites. The businesses that support the Path, where you've chosen to visit, are listed here.

Moreton House

Self catering holiday apartments located within a stately home sleeping from 2 - 10 people. Group bookings available.

Westacott Farm Camping

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the North Devon countryside at our working family farm. Situated within an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the North Devon coast.

Livit Adventures & Glamping

We offer unique accommodation in a beautiful setting overlooking the Atlantic ocean. Just a short walk from the SWCP we offer luxury or basic glamping.

Corner House B&B

500 yards from the quayside, family run and homely welcome. Single night stays. ROOMS ENSUITE

Baker's Cottage

A relaxing, hideaway cottage in town with restaurants, pubs, shops & quayside nearby. Sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms. Space on deck for bicycles. Luggage drop-off available.

Peppercombe Bothy

Comfortably sleeping up to four guests, Peppercombe Bothy is a very basic stone dwelling benefiting from wonderful views to Bideford Bay and close proximity to the famous South West Coast Path.

Tarka Trail Camping

Tarka Trail Camping is right on the South West Coast Path. There are Showers and Toilets on site with a Local Ale Brewery next door. We are an ideal spot to stop off.

Interactive Elevation

Route Description

  1. The path starts at the car park at the western end of Westward Ho!, and heads westwards along an old railway line.

This railway was part of the short lived Bideford, Westward Ho! and Appledore Railway which was opened in 1901 and closed in 1917 when its rolling stock was requisitioned for the war effort.

The first half of the walk has a tarmac finish, resulting in a smooth hard surface very safe for children, elderly walkers, pushchairs and wheelchairs.

The second part has a hoggin surface and is left unsealed, yet it is still relatively smooth and safe and very user-friendly.

On this section there are great views northwards across to the rolling surf breaking on Braunton Sands and Baggy Point beyond.

  1. As the path swings south, a new view opens up across Bideford Bay to Clovelly and the cliffs near Hartland Point.
  2. The walk ends at a viewpoint, where the old railway turns inland (and is private) and the Coast Path descends down to Green Cliff and beyond.

Work is planned to improve the access along Westward Ho! seafront, provide further seating along the route, safe viewing points and specialist sensory interpretation providing information for sighted and partially sighted visitors.

Public transport

You can reach Westward Ho! by bus approximately every ½ hour from Barnstaple and Bideford. For timetable information, zoom in on the interactive map and click on the bus stops, visit Traveline or phone 0871 200 22 33.

Parking

Westward Ho! (Postcode for Sat Navs: EX39 1JS).

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