South West Coast Path — on our doorstep – A world‑class trail through wild North Devon

The South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest National Trail, tracing 630 miles of dramatic coastline from Somerset to Dorset. Our stretch, the Hartland Heritage Coast, is famed for soaring cliffs, waterfalls, ancient woodlands and rugged headlands.

How close are we?

Very! The Coast Path passes the shoreline at Speke’s Mill Mouth; from there it’s an inland footpath of roughly 1.5 miles (2.4 km) to Elmscott. It’s well signed (look out for the old YHA fingerpost).

If you’re arriving by car and fancy quick access to the trail, two handy car parks with path links are:

  • Brownsham (National Trust) — EX39 6AN
  • Hartland Quay — EX39 6DU

Highlights right by us

  • Speke’s Mill Mouth waterfall — one of Hartland’s classic photo stops.
  • Mouth Mill & Blackchurch Rock — a secluded cove with a striking twin‑arched sea stack and a historic lime kiln.
  • Windbury Head — big Atlantic views from an ancient cliff‑top fort site.
  • Clovelly — the famous cobbled fishing village tucked into the woods.

Day walks you can do from here

(All distances are for the circular or out‑and‑back routes described; expect steep up‑and‑downs on this coast.)

  • Hartland Quay ↔ Speke’s Mill Mouth — 3.9 miles / 6.3 km (circular)
  • Hartland Quay Circular — 4.0 miles / 6.5 km
  • Brownsham ↔ Clovelly (via Mouth Mill) — about 5–5.5 miles / 8–9 km (circular options)

Prefer something bigger? The long point‑to‑point stages north and south of us — Clovelly ↔ Hartland Quay and Hartland Quay ↔ Morwenstow — are challenging, spectacular days. We’re perfectly placed in between for multi‑day itineraries.

Practical info for walkers

  • Drying room for wet kit.
  • Self‑catering kitchen and comfortable lounge.
  • On‑site parking and a peaceful walled garden.

Pack sturdy footwear, carry water and layers, and take care on exposed cliffs and in wet weather. Mobile signal can be patchy.

Getting between Elmscott and the Coast Path

From the hostel: follow signed footpaths to Speke’s Mill Mouth to join the South West Coast Path. From the path at Speke’s Mill Mouth: take the signed inland footpath marked to Elmscott (look for the YHA signpost); the hostel is by the red telephone box in the hamlet.

Good to know

  • This coastline includes sections of steep steps and narrow paths; allow extra time.
  • Tides, storms and occasional diversions can affect access — always follow local signage.

Questions?

We’re happy to help you plan a route to suit your time and experience. Just ask when you book or when you arrive.