East Devon Way, long-distance footpath in England
The East Devon Way is a long-distance trail of around 40 miles that runs through the countryside of East Devon and Dorset. It follows footpaths, lanes, and bridleways across fields, woods, heathland, and valleys, passing rivers, small villages, and terrain that rises and falls throughout the route.
The trail was established in the late 1990s and has been regularly maintained and improved through the efforts of volunteers like Mike Green. It was created to open access to the natural landscapes of the region while supporting the preservation of its rural character.
The trail passes through small villages and hamlets where local communities still shape daily life. Walkers observe how people use the countryside, from working the land to gathering in village shops and country pubs along the route.
The route is well-marked with signs and easy to follow, with accommodation and food available in villages like Exmouth, Newton Poppleford, Sidbury, Colyton, and Lyme Regis. The path is hilly and requires good planning with enough water and supplies, as shops along the way are scarce.
The route moves through completely different landscapes, from river estuaries and marshes filled with migrating birds in winter to open heathland with blooming heather in summer. This shifting scenery means each section feels distinct and offers fresh views of the region's natural variety.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
