The charming South Devon village of Chillington presents an exceptional starting point for exploring the natural beauty of the South Hams. Surrounded by rolling green hills and positioned just a short distance from the spectacular Start Bay coastline, this tranquil location offers an inviting lifestyle for those who appreciate the great outdoors.
Walking in this picturesque corner of the country provides a deeply rewarding way to connect with the landscape. You can step out of your front door and immediately find yourself on quiet village lanes, leading seamlessly into ancient woodlands and open fields. The fresh sea air is never far away, carrying the promise of sweeping coastal vistas and refreshing shorelines.
From effortless afternoon strolls to more engaging circular routes, the area caters to every preference. To guide you, we have prepared a selection of beautifully scenic walks near Chillington, to help you plan your next leisurely excursion.
Chillington Village and Great Hill Wood Loop
Distance: Short
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Paved village lanes and woodland paths
Start Postcode: TQ7 2LD (Chillington Village Centre)
- Start your walk from the village centre, near the junction of the A379 and Tanpits Lane.
- Follow Tanpits Lane south as it slopes gently towards Aller.
- The path leads you through quiet Devon countryside and into the shade of Great Hill Wood.
- Follow the woodland edge before the path loops back toward the eastern side of Chillington.
- This short, circular route requires no driving and returns you to your starting point.
Where to pause: Located on the A379 in the village, The Bear & Blacksmith (TQ7 2LD) provides a splendid post-walk retreat serving locally sourced food.
Chillington to Frogmore and Charleton Loop
Distance: Medium
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Rural footpaths, bridleways, and country lanes
Start Postcode: TQ7 2LD
- Begin your walk at The Bear & Blacksmith, heading west along the A379 from the centre of Chillington and onto quiet village lanes.
- Follow the route toward the neighbouring village of Frogmore, enjoying the tranquillity of the South Devon countryside.
- At the junction, continue straight, following peaceful lanes and established footpaths that circle East Charleton and West Charleton.
- Let the path guide you back towards Chillington, revealing a thoughtfully varied collection of countryside views along the way.
Where to pause: Return to the welcoming ambience of The Bear & Blacksmith (TQ7 2LD) in Chillington for a well-earned lunch or a refreshing drink.
The Torcross to Stokenham Circular
Distance: Six miles (9.5 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Terrain: Coastal paths, field edges, and narrow lanes
Start Postcode: TQ7 2TQ (Torcross Car Park)
- Begin at Torcross Car Park.
- Cross the road to the seafront.
- Turn right along the historic sea wall.
- Take the steps signed for the South West Coast Path and follow the yellow waymarkers as the route climbs inland behind the old Beesands Quarry.
- Before reaching the beach at Beesands Cellars, take the fingerpost towards Widewell.
- The path leads through fields and past the charming cottages of Widdicombe, eventually meeting the road.
- Turn left and proceed down the narrow stretch of Sumerye Lane.
- Continue through the village of Chillington, turning sharply up Frittiscombe Lane to cross into Stokenham.
- The final stretch guides you through a historic churchyard and across sweeping fields on a permissive path back to Torcross.
Where to pause: The Billy Can in Torcross (TQ7 2TQ) is perfect for coffee and cake, while the Start Bay Inn (TQ7 2TQ) offers classic seafront dining. Alternatively, The Church House Inn (TQ7 2SZ) and The Tradesman’s Arms (TQ7 2SZ) provide excellent traditional pub settings in the charming village of Stokenham.
Chillington to Torcross
Distance: Approximately two miles each way
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Country lanes and footpaths
Start Postcode: TQ7 2LD
- Begin your walk at the Chillington Post Office on the A379.
- Follow the inviting local lanes south, with Helmers Way gently guiding you toward the coast.
- As you approach the village edge, pause to admire the sweeping views of Slapton Ley and the broad arc of Start Bay.
- Continue along this path toward Torcross, allowing the beautiful scenery to unfold at a leisurely pace.
- Arrive at the stunning Torcross seafront, an ideal place to rest and reflect before making your return.
Where to pause: The Boathouse at Slapton Sands (TQ7 2PN) offers a lovely setting for afternoon tea, positioned perfectly between the freshwater lake and the sea.
Start Point Lighthouse Stroll
Distance: Just over one mile (2.1 km)
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Tarmac track with a steady descent
Start Postcode: TQ7 2ET (Start Point Car Park)
- Situated a short drive from Chillington, this remarkable walk offers dramatic, rugged scenery.
- From the car park, pass through the gate and follow the old lighthouse road south-eastwards.
- The track descends steadily towards the historic Start Point Lighthouse, constructed in 1836.
- This accessible route provides outstanding views across Start Bay, making it a highly rewarding, effortless coastal stroll.
Where to pause: While there are no facilities at the lighthouse itself, the charming village of Beesands is a short drive away. Here you will find Britannia @ The Beach (TQ7 2EH), a rustic seaside shack renowned for its exceptional fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere.
A beautifully designed collection of homes
For those looking to enjoy village life with countryside walks and the coast close by, discover more about Green Park, Chillington.
Set in the village of Chillington, Green Park is a collection of seventeen 3 and 4 bedroom homes, with Kingsbridge, Dartmouth and the coast at Torcross all just a short drive away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What footwear is best for walking in the South Hams?
Given the varied terrain, a sturdy pair of walking boots is highly recommended. While the paved village lanes are gentle, the coastal paths and woodland trails can occasionally become uneven or muddy after seasonal rainfall.
Are these routes suitable for dogs?
The South Hams is a wonderfully accommodating area for dogs. Many of the local pubs warmly welcome well-behaved pets. Please remain mindful of grazing livestock in the rural fields and keep dogs on a lead where requested.
Is parking easily accessible?
Yes, the coastal routes feature dedicated parking areas, such as the Torcross car park and the Start Point car park. For walks beginning in Chillington, considerate parking within the village is usually straightforward.
