Coast path walks from Leonards Cove
The South West Coast Path runs right from the park at Stoke Fleming. Here are our favourite walks, from a 20-minute stroll to the beach to a coastal hike into Dartmouth.
Quick and easy: Blackpool Sands, about 20 minutes. Big walk: Stoke Fleming to Dartmouth, about 4 miles one way. Short circular: Dartmouth Castle and Compass Cove.
At a glance
| Walk | Distance | Difficulty | Refreshments |
|---|---|---|---|
| To Blackpool Sands | Under a mile | Easy to moderate | Café at Blackpool Sands |
| Stoke Fleming to Dartmouth | About 4 miles one way | Moderate | Dartmouth Castle tearooms, Dartmouth |
| Dartmouth Castle and Compass Cove | About 1.5 to 1.8 miles | Moderate | Dartmouth Castle tearooms |
| Stoke Fleming to Strete | About 2 miles | Moderate | Strete village |
| Blackpool Sands and Strete loop | About 3.2 miles | Moderate | Café at Blackpool Sands |
The walks
Leonards Cove to Blackpool Sands
Head west from Stoke Fleming to our nearest beach. A short walk with a reward at the end: a sheltered bay with a café, toilets and showers.
Stoke Fleming to Dartmouth
Follow the coast path east past Little Dartmouth and Compass Cove to Dartmouth Castle, then on into town. Expect climbs and descents, so it isn't suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. Stop at the castle tearooms, then get a bus or taxi back.
Dartmouth Castle and Compass Cove circular
A loop from the Dartmouth Castle car park through woodland and fields, with an optional detour down to Compass Cove. Paths can be muddy or slippery when wet, and there are steps at the castle.
Stoke Fleming to Strete
West along the coast with views over Start Bay, Slapton Ley and Blackpool Sands. Listed by Visit South Devon as a dog friendly walk.
Blackpool Sands and Strete loop
A circular from Blackpool Sands up to Strete village and back, with views from Start Point to Froward Point. Quiet lanes, steep climbs and fields that can be muddy.
Questions
Is Leonards Cove on the South West Coast Path?
Yes. The coast path runs from the park, east towards Dartmouth Castle and west towards Blackpool Sands and Strete.
How far is it to walk from Stoke Fleming to Dartmouth?
About 4 miles one way on the coast path, which takes around 2 hours 15 minutes. There are climbs, so it isn't suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.
How long is the walk from Leonards Cove to Blackpool Sands?
Under a mile, about 20 minutes on foot.
Are the walks dog friendly?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on the coast path. Keep them under close control and on a short lead near sheep. Blackpool Sands doesn't allow dogs from 1 May to 30 September.
What should we wear?
Walking boots or sturdy shoes. Some sections are steep and can be muddy or slippery after rain.