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 60 miles.

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, Devon
⌖ 2.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sidmouth, Devon

Sidmouth in Devon is a peaceful coastal town where cliffs, beaches, and countryside trails meet. With the South West Coast Path and Jurassic Coast as backdrops, it’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, and cycling adventures.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Ottery St Mary, Devon
⌖ 4.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ottery St Mary, Devon

Ottery St Mary offers gentle hiking, scenic cycling, and peaceful kayaking along the River Otter. Its quiet rural landscapes and historic charm make it a perfect spot for relaxed outdoor adventure in Devon.

Spring through Early Autumn
Explore Town
Honiton, Devon
⌖ 6.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honiton, Devon

Honiton is a welcoming Devon town surrounded by rolling hills, river valleys, and AONB countryside. It’s a peaceful base for walking, cycling, paddling, and wildlife spotting away from more crowded coastal hotspots.

Spring through Autumn
Explore Town
Axminster, Devon
⌖ 10.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Axminster, Devon

Axminster is a rural Devon town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, biking, and paddling amid rolling hills and river valleys. Its close proximity to the Jurassic Coast adds coastal adventure options.

Spring through Autumn
Explore Town
Exmouth, Devon
⌖ 11.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Exmouth, Devon

Exmouth is a lively coastal town in Devon ideal for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, paddling, biking, and wildlife spotting along the Jurassic Coast and Exe Estuary.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Exmouth, Devon, England
⌖ 11.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Exmouth, Devon, England

Exmouth offers outdoor lovers a blend of coastal hiking, watersports, and wildlife spotting along the famous Jurassic Coast. It’s an ideal base for exploring beaches, estuaries, and scenic trails in East Devon.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore 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.

Fragrance Design Experience - Exeter
ADVEXPEDITION
Exeter, England
WorkshopADV Bookable

Fragrance Design Experience - Exeter

Discover your personal scent with a bespoke perfume experience at The Perfume Studio in Exeter. Create, customize, and take home your signature fragrance in this immersive workshop.

WorkshopAges 16+ • 2 hours • Even better when sharedCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Inside Palmers: Two Hours in a 1794 Brewhouse on the River Brit
ADVEXPEDITION
Bridport, Dorset
BreweryADV Bookable

Inside Palmers: Two Hours in a 1794 Brewhouse on the River Brit

A guided tour of Palmers Brewery in Bridport that traces traditional cask-ale production from raw ingredients to a tasting of the finished beer — essential reading for anyone planning the visit.

BreweryPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
2 Hour Intro To Kayaking Course
ADVEXPEDITION
Torquay, England
Boat TourADV Bookable

2 Hour Intro To Kayaking Course

Discover the coastal beauty of Torbay on a guided kayaking course designed for beginners. Learn essential skills and paddle through stunning waters in this fun-packed adventure.

Boat TourLearn how to Sea Kayak in a Sit-In or Sit-On Kayak in the English Riviera Unesco Global GeoparkCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip