WALK: Branscombe to Beer, Devon
Jaunt along the Jurassic Coast
If you have built up a thirst walking along Devon’s coastal cliffs and beaches to Beer, then you’re in luck – the tiny seaside village has a handful of traditional pubs, perfect for a well-earned pint, says Carys Matthews
The small village of Beer, sheltered by white chalky cliffs above a steep shingle beach, sits on the Jurassic Coast near Lyme Regis. Along this stretch of Devon coastline, the rocks provide a haven for wildlife, and it’s a site of geological and historical interest, too.
Despite its popularity, Beer beach remains a peaceful spot to spend an afternoon, with bobbing fishing boats drawing the eye out to sea. This popular three-mile coastal walk from the village of Branscombe to Beer requires a reasonable level of fitness as the path can be steep and uneven at times. However, your efforts will be rewarded with stunning coastal and countryside views and a refreshing pint at your aptly named finishing line.
THE ROUTE
3 MILES/4.9KM | 2 HOURS | MODERATE
1 HIGH WOODS
Start in Branscombe at Saint Winifred’s Church, one of the oldest churches in Britain. Take the path to the left of the building and walk for 100m to cross over a stile. Continue until you reach a small footbridge and another stile leading into the woods. Climb the steps through the trees until you find a broader trail and the South West Coast Path. Turn left and continue for a minute or two to emerge from the trees to spectacular views of the coast and the village of Branscombe.
2 THE SEA SHANTY
Continue along the footpath. You briefly enter the trees again, keeping right at the fork before descending to Branscombe Mouth.
Branscombe Bay infamously claimed headlines in 2007 when the MSC Napoli cargo ship ran aground – the 13.5-tonne Napoli anchor is now on display outside the Sea Shanty – abeachside café serving refreshments.
3 CLIFF TO CLIFF
Beyond the café, look out for a National Trust sign for East Cliff, and head through a gate to climb a grassy hill. (An alternative route can be taken at this point: follow the South West Coast Path sign to the right, passing through the Sea Shanty Holiday Park, before ascending Under Hooken to rejoin the described route at Beer Head). Follow the path across two fields towards steep steps that lead to the top of Hooken Cliff and a good view of Sidmouth and the coast.
4 VEER INTO BEER
Keep following the clifftop path east towards Beer. Go through two sets of kissing gates and along a small dirt track beside a hedgerow towards Beer Head. Pass the Beer Coastguard Station. From here, it’s a short walk along Common Lane into the village.
5 BACK TO BASE
To return to Branscombe, there are three options: retrace your steps along the coast path; head inland along Mare Lane and through the village of Vicarage to complete a circular loop; or catch the 899 bus.
Group digital editor Carys grew up in Devon and regularly returns for a coastal walk and swim.