Hiking Guide to Devon: cheap accommodations, beautiful trails and free attractions

Hiking Guide to Devon: cheap accommodations, beautiful trails and free attractions

June 11, 2025

Devon, a picturesque region in southwest England, is a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Combining breathtaking scenery with rich history and culture, Devon offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all budgets. In this guide, we'll take you on a fascinating journey through the most beautiful trails, hidden gems and cheap accommodations that will make your trip to Devon not only memorable, but wallet-friendly. Discover with us how to enjoy the charms of this unique region without spending a fortune, and find out that the best things in life really are free - especially in Devon!

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Dartmoor National Park - wildlife and mysterious landscapes

The first point of our Devon walking adventure is the famous Dartmoor National Park. It's a place that has attracted nature lovers and adventurers from all over the world for years. Covering an area of more than 950 square kilometers, the park offers countless opportunities for hiking through wild, untamed nature.

Dartmoor is a land of contrasts - from vast moorlands to mysterious forests, from picturesque valleys to rocky hills called 'tors. There's something for everyone here, regardless of skill level. For beginners, we recommend the gentle trails around the village of Postbridge, where you can admire the famous medieval stave bridge. More experienced walkers can tackle the challenge of climbing the High Willhays, Devon's highest point.

Importantly, admission to the park is completely free, making it an ideal destination for frugal travelers. However, remember to prepare accordingly - the weather on Dartmoor can be capricious, and some areas are quite remote from civilization.

One of the park's biggest attractions that you absolutely must see is Wistman's Wood. Tucked away in the valley of the West Dart River, this ancient oak forest is a place like a fairy tale. Twisted, knotty oaks, covered with a thick layer of moss and lichen, create an eerie, almost magical atmosphere. According to local legends, this forest is home to druids and forest spirits.

Wistman's Wood is a relatively accessible attraction - it takes about 45 minutes at a leisurely pace to get there from the parking lot at Two Bridges. The route is well marked and requires no special preparation, although comfortable trekking shoes are recommended. Remember to stay on the designated path - the forest is a protected area, and the delicate ecosystem is easily damaged.

Both Dartmoor National Park and Wistman's Wood offer unique experiences for nature lovers. They are places where you can truly take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in wild, untamed nature. What's more, these attractions are completely free, making them ideal for frugal travelers. However, remember the 'Leave No Trace' rule - take only memories with you, leave only footprints.

Cost-effective accommodation and amazing views -. Ocean Backpackers in Ilfracombe

After a fun-filled day in Dartmoor National Park, it's time to find a comfortable and affordable place to stay. One of the best choices for budget travelers is Ocean Backpackers in the charming seaside town of Ilfracombe.

Ocean Backpackers is a hostel that combines affordable prices with a great location and friendly atmosphere. Located in the heart of Ilfracombe, just a few minutes' walk from the harbor and beach, it is an ideal base for exploring the north Devon coast.

The hostel offers a variety of accommodation options, from dormitories to private rooms, so there is something to suit everyone. Prices start at around £20 per night for a dormitory, making it one of the cheapest accommodations in the area.

One of the biggest advantages of Ocean Backpackers is its social atmosphere. The shared kitchen and lounge are great places to meet other travelers, exchange experiences and maybe even find company for future trips. The hostel also organizes various social events, such as cookouts and movie nights.

It's worth noting that Ocean Backpackers has received a lot of positive feedback from guests, who praise above all the cleanliness of the facility, the helpful staff and the great location. However, some point out that the hostel can be quite noisy during peak season, so if you value quiet, consider booking a private room.

With Ocean Backpackers, you can easily reach many attractions in the area. One place you absolutely must visit is Hooken Cliffs. Located about 30 miles east of Ilfracombe, these spectacular cliffs offer some of the most beautiful views of the Devon coast.

Hooken Cliffs are not only scenic, but also feature fascinating geology. As you walk along the path at the top of the cliffs, you can admire the dramatic rock formations created by landslides centuries ago. The trail is relatively easy and accessible to most hikers, although some sections can be steep.

The most popular trail leads from the village of Beer to Branscombe, offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding hills. The entire route is about 4 miles long and takes an average of 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and the number of breaks to enjoy the views (and there will certainly be plenty of those!).

Importantly, admission to Hooken Cliffs is completely free, making it another attraction ideal for thrifty travelers. Remember to exercise caution, though - the cliffs can be dangerous, especially on windy days or after rain.

Combining cheap accommodation at Ocean Backpackers with a free attraction like Hooken Cliffs is a great way to discover the beauty of Devon without straining your budget. It's also an opportunity to meet other travelers and create unforgettable memories in one of England's most beautiful regions.

Summary - Devon for everyone

Our walking tour of Devon has come to an end, but we hope we've inspired you to have your own adventures in this fascinating region. Devon is a place that proves you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy unforgettable experiences and beautiful views.

To sum up our trip, there are a few key points worth noting:

  1. Dartmoor National Park - a place that offers countless opportunities for hikers. From easy walks on the moors to challenging climbs on the 'tors, there is something for everyone. What's more, admission to the park is completely free, making it an ideal destination for frugal travelers.

  2. Wistman's Wood - this mysterious, ancient oak forest is a true Dartmoor gem. Easily accessible and free of charge, it offers an unforgettable experience and an atmosphere like that of a fairy tale.

  3. Ocean Backpackers in Ilfracombe - is an excellent choice for those looking for cheap accommodation without sacrificing comfort and a good location. With prices starting at around £20 per night, this hostel makes a great base for exploring North Devon.

  4. Hooken Cliffs - These spectacular cliffs offer some of the most beautiful views of the Devon coast. What's more, admission is completely free, making them another attraction ideal for frugal travelers.

It's worth remembering that Devon isn't just the places we visited in our guide. The region holds many more treasures - from quaint seaside towns to picturesque inland villages, from pristine beaches to historic castles. Every trip to Devon can be quite different, and the region has the potential to attract travelers again and again.

When planning your trip to Devon, keep in mind a few important tips:

  1. the weather in Devon can be capricious, so always be prepared for different weather conditions.

  2. Although many attractions are free, some places may require advance reservations, especially during peak season.

  3. Respect local nature and culture - follow the 'Leave No Trace' rule and always be courteous to locals.

  4. Consider traveling in the off-season - not only will you save on accommodations, but you will also avoid crowds at the most popular destinations.

Devon is a region that has something to offer everyone - regardless of budget, age or interests. We hope our guide has inspired you to discover this beautiful corner of England on your own. Remember that the most beautiful sights and the most valuable experiences often await those who are not afraid to venture off the beaten path. So hit the road, discover your own favorite places in Devon and create unforgettable memories!

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