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East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty wilderness guide
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty · Devon, England

East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers rolling hills, picturesque coastlines, and historic sites showcasing England's natural charm and diverse landscapes.

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty103,0004+ Trails

Designation

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Total Wilderness Area

103,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers rolling hills, picturesque coastlines, and historic sites showcasing England's natural charm and diverse landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a breathtaking region located in the county of Devon, England. It covers an expanse of coastal and countryside areas that are renowned for their stunning natural character and biodiversity. The landscape is varied, featuring cliffs, beaches, heathland, and woods. This AONB is known for its Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its geological formations and significant fossil finds. Historically, the fertile lands have been shaped by centuries of farming, which continues to play a central role in maintaining the area’s rural character. Notable landmarks include the ancient fort at Woodbury Common and the picturesque village of Beer. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in a variety of recreational activities such as hiking along the South West Coast Path, bird watching at the Seaton Wetlands, or exploring the charming towns of Sidmouth and Branscombe. The region’s appeal lies in its peaceful rural charm, wildlife-rich landscapes, and the availability of numerous trails and outdoor activities that provide a perfect escape into nature.

Field Guide · Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Scenic Coastal Trekking at South West Coast Path★ 8.7⌖ 19 miHiking
South West Coast Path

Scenic Coastal Trekking at South West Coast Path

Explore the South West Coast Path near Cornwall, offering coastal hiking with panoramic Atlantic views. Ideal from late spring to early autumn, this trail provides opportunities for wildlife watching, beachcombing, and kayaking along dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches.

Experience the Charm of Gallery On The Square in Dorchester⌖ 32 miCultural Exploration
Gallery On The Square

Experience the Charm of Gallery On The Square in Dorchester

Explore Gallery On The Square in Dorchester, a cultural hub offering a blend of art and architecture. Enjoy walking and photography amidst neoclassical design and verdant landscapes. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts seeking tranquility in spring and fall.

Cultural ExplorationView Details→
Majestic Landscapes: Dartmoor National Park★ 8.7⌖ 33 miHiking
Dartmoor National Park

Majestic Landscapes: Dartmoor National Park

Explore Dartmoor National Park in Devon, featuring iconic granite tors and expansive moorlands. This remote location offers hiking and rock climbing. It's ideal for adventure seekers and is most enjoyable in the spring and summer.

Hiking to Glastonbury Tor: Iconic Hilltop Landmark in Somerset★ 7.7⌖ 37 miHiking
Glastonbury Tor

Hiking to Glastonbury Tor: Iconic Hilltop Landmark in Somerset

Climb Glastonbury Tor, a natural hill near Glastonbury, Somerset, with a moderate hike up stone steps to historic St. Michael’s Tower. Enjoy panoramic views, pastoral surroundings, and cultural heritage year-round, ideal for hiking, photography, and quiet reflection.

Down Tor Stone Circle: A Mystical Gem in Dartmoor★ 6.6⌖ 38 miHistorical Exploration
Down Tor Stone Circle

Down Tor Stone Circle: A Mystical Gem in Dartmoor

Visit the ancient Down Tor Stone Circle in Dartmoor National Park, a mystical site with around 30 standing stones. Best explored during spring and fall, it's an easy hike-in spot perfect for history buffs and photographers seeking solitude and stunning moorland views.

Historical ExplorationView Details→
Natural Wonder: Durdle Door in Dorset★ 8.7⌖ 41 miBeachcombing
Durdle Door

Natural Wonder: Durdle Door in Dorset

Explore Durdle Door, a stunning natural arch on Dorset's Jurassic Coast. Enjoy activities like beachcombing, hiking, and kayaking. The site is not accessible and is busy in summer, but offers a scenic and educational experience along England's heritage coast.

BeachcombingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning cliffs and unique geological features.✦ Seaton Wetlands, a prime spot for bird watching and enjoying the diversity of wetland wildlife.✦ The South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and access to hidden beaches.✦ Beer Quarry Caves, a historical site offering insight into underground stone mining from Roman times onward.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Park Recreation

Cycling

Available in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Salcombe Regis Camping and Caravan Park

Located near Sidmouth, offers stunning views and good access to local trails.

Hooks House Farm Campsite

A rustic camping experience with nearby access to the coast paths and nature walks.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sidmouth
⌖ 2.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sidmouth, Devon

A charming coastal town offering scenic cliff walks, coastal paddling, and countryside trails with easy access to the Jurassic Coast's natural wonders.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Ottery St Mary
⌖ 4.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ottery St Mary, Devon

A charming historic market town offering access to rolling Devon countryside, gentle riverside trails, and rural cycling routes, perfect for relaxed outdoor exploration.

Spring through Early AutumnExplore Town
Honiton
⌖ 6.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honiton, Devon

A charming market town offering easy access to rolling countryside, scenic river valleys, and nearby coastal trails, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking peaceful nature escapes.

Spring through AutumnExplore Town
Axminster
⌖ 10.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Axminster, Devon

A charming market town offering close access to rolling countryside, river valleys, and coastal landscapes ideal for varied outdoor adventures.

Spring through AutumnExplore Town
Exmouth
⌖ 11.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Exmouth, Devon

A vibrant coastal town offering a mix of seaside adventures, cliff-top hikes, and water sports alongside rich natural heritage.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Exmouth
⌖ 11.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Exmouth, Devon

A coastal town offering a refreshing mix of beachside activities, scenic trails, and watersports along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.