Heddon's Mouth Beach
Discover Heddon's Mouth: a hidden gem where a temperate rainforest meets the rugged North Devon coast. Explore enchanting valleys and a unique pebbly ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Heddon's Mouth Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Heddon's Mouth: a hidden gem where a temperate rainforest meets the rugged North Devon coast. Explore enchanting valleys and a unique pebbly beach.
"A truly ancient landscape, tranquil and beautiful, perfect for a walk and a dip."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path and beach are rocky and uneven. Good walking shoes are a must!
🚗 Navigating Narrow Roads
The road to the car park is narrow with few passing places. Drive carefully!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Heddon Valley Woodland Walk
Heddon Valley
A lush, temperate rainforest walk leading to the coast. Truly magical!
Heddon's Mouth Beach
Coastal end of Heddon Valley
A secluded pebbly beach where the river meets the sea. Perfect for a dip!
+1
The Hunter's Inn
Start of Heddon Valley walk
Historic pub offering delicious food and a charming garden setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path and beach are rocky and uneven. Good walking shoes are a must!
🚗 Navigating Narrow Roads
The road to the car park is narrow with few passing places. Drive carefully!
🏞️ Extend Your Walk
Connect to the South West Coast Path for longer, breathtaking coastal hikes.
🍔 Order Pasties Early
If you want National Trust pasties, order them when you start your walk!
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The path and beach are rocky and uneven. Good walking shoes are a must!
🚗 Navigating Narrow Roads
The road to the car park is narrow with few passing places. Drive carefully!
🏞️ Extend Your Walk
Connect to the South West Coast Path for longer, breathtaking coastal hikes.
🍔 Order Pasties Early
If you want National Trust pasties, order them when you start your walk!
💳 Parking Payment
Parking machine is cash only, but you can pay by card at the NT kiosk.
🌊 Brave a Paddle
The sea is inviting for a refreshing dip, even on cooler days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Heddon's Mouth, particularly the enchanting woodland walk through Heddon Valley and the unique pebbly beach. The historic Hunter's Inn is a popular spot for refreshments, and the overall experience is described as tranquil and rewarding. Some note the narrow access roads and the rocky terrain on the beach.
"Lovely walk along river. Not too strenuous, but a little steep in places. Opens up to pebbled beach, bit of a climb to get over the larger boulders. Had wonderful lunch at Hunters Inn on return. Warning, if you want pasties from National Trust kiosk you need to order them when setting off for your walk. Parking machine is cash only but you can pay by card in the NT kiosk 👍"
Philippa Price
"Beautiful location. Great for dog walks, hiking and runs if you’re local.
You can increase distance up to the costal paths too.
I love sitting at the end watching the water from the river run down towards the sea. The simple things in life 🤙🏼"
Richard Knight
"Ffs Google. All I did was look for it on your maps.. I ain't been there yet. Wait til tomorrow you ijiot....
That was yesterday.. now today I have been! Don't be put off by road sign saying road closed. And ffs don't follow satnav that takes you to the next turning.. you'll be entering an undiscovered world. No bloody tarmac..
So go the signposted way. The walk is dead short. But can be padded out using coastal footpath.
Oh. And I had a quick peek at the old church of st petrocs too which you will see signposted on the way to heddons mouth if coming from link road side"
James Bill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route is via a scenic walk through Heddon Valley from The Hunter's Inn pub. Alternatively, you can access it via the South West Coast Path. The drive to the car park is via narrow, winding roads.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park near the start of the valley walk. Be aware the road leading to it is narrow.
No, you cannot drive directly onto the beach. The final approach is a walk through the valley or along the coast path.
While there isn't direct public transport to the beach itself, local bus services can get you to nearby villages like Lynton or Parracombe, from where you can walk or arrange local transport.
The nearest significant towns are Lynton and Lynmouth, which are a short drive away and offer amenities and further exploration opportunities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the beach and the valley walk is free. However, parking at the National Trust car park usually incurs a fee.
Heddon's Mouth is a natural beach and coastal area, so it's accessible at all times. The Hunter's Inn pub has its own operating hours.
No, there are no booking requirements to visit Heddon's Mouth Beach itself. Booking might be advisable for The Hunter's Inn, especially during peak season.
The walk through Heddon Valley is free to access. Parking fees apply at the National Trust car park.
Parking fees are typically paid at the machine in the car park (cash only, as per reviews) or potentially via an app. The National Trust kiosk may offer card payment options for other services.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The beach is primarily pebbly, and there can be larger boulders to navigate. The walk through Heddon Valley is a path, but can be uneven in places.
Yes, many visitors enjoy swimming or paddling in the sea at Heddon's Mouth, especially on warmer days.
Yes, Heddon's Mouth is generally dog-friendly, making it a great spot for dog walks along the coast path.
There's a National Trust kiosk that may offer refreshments and ice cream. The Hunter's Inn pub is also nearby for food and drinks.
The walk through Heddon Valley is relatively gentle and can be suitable for families, though the beach itself has rocky terrain.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hunter's Inn, located at the start of the valley walk, is a popular choice for lunch or a meal with a lovely garden.
There is a National Trust kiosk that sometimes offers pasties and refreshments. It's advisable to order pasties in advance.
Absolutely! The scenic valley and beach provide beautiful spots for a picnic.
The Hunter's Inn typically serves traditional pub fare, often featuring local produce.
Many pubs in the area are dog-friendly, especially in their gardens. It's best to check directly with The Hunter's Inn.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush Heddon Valley, the dramatic coastline, the pebbly beach, and the meeting of river and sea. Autumn colors are particularly stunning.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic cliffs and sea still make for great shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture details on the cliffs. A polarizing filter can enhance the sea and sky.
The entire walk offers stunning vistas. Look for elevated points along the coast path for panoramic views.
Drone usage may be restricted in National Trust areas and National Parks. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the beach itself is pebbly and can be a bit rocky, it's still a fun place for kids to explore, build pebble towers, and perhaps even brave a paddle in the sea. The National Trust kiosk can be a treat for an ice cream or a pasty (remember to order ahead!). The relatively short walk makes it manageable for younger legs, and the connection to the South West Coast Path offers options for more adventurous families.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
+1The valley walk itself is a beautiful, less strenuous option, perfect for a more relaxed ramble. The diverse landscapes, from temperate rainforest to rugged coastline, provide varied and rewarding walking experiences. Remember to check tide times if planning to explore the beach extensively.
+1🐶 Dog Owners
+1Dogs are generally welcome in the valley and on the beach, though it's always good practice to keep them under control, especially near the water and on narrower sections of the path. The Hunter's Inn is also often dog-friendly, particularly in its garden, making it a great spot to relax with your furry friend after a walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Heddon Valley
This valley walk is considered relatively gentle and accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors, including families. The National Trust has maintained the path, ensuring it's a pleasant experience. The sound of the river and the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy contribute to the serene ambiance.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the valley walk connects seamlessly with the South West Coast Path. This offers opportunities for more strenuous hiking with dramatic coastal views, allowing you to extend your exploration of the North Devon coastline.
+1Heddon's Mouth Beach: A Coastal Gem
+1The beach itself can be a bit of a scramble over larger boulders, so sturdy footwear is recommended, especially if you plan to explore its nooks and crannies. Despite its ruggedness, the beach offers a sense of seclusion and natural beauty, making it a rewarding find. It's a place where you can truly connect with the raw power of the coast.
Many visitors find the beach to be a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, watching the interplay of river and sea. It’s also a popular location for wild swimming and even for those who enjoy a bit of Exmoor stone lifting, showcasing the diverse activities this unique spot can inspire.
+1The Hunter's Inn: A Welcoming Respite
Visitors often praise the pub for its delicious food, which typically includes traditional pub fare made with local ingredients. It's an ideal place to refuel after a walk, whether you're enjoying a hearty meal or a lighter snack. The attentive staff also contribute to a positive dining experience.
It's worth noting that the pub can get busy, especially during peak seasons. If you're planning a meal, particularly on a weekend or during holidays, it's advisable to book a table in advance to avoid disappointment.
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