Discover six of South Devon’s finest coastal and river walks, stretching from the light-drenched cliffs of Start Point to the quiet banks of the River Dart. Complete with local history, atmospheric scenery, and the best walker-friendly pubs along the way.

From the granite tors of St Agnes to the turquoise bays of St Martin’s and the sub-tropical paths of Tresco, the Isles of Scilly offer some of the finest coastal hiking in the UK. Here is my definitive guide to the six best island circuits, complete with historical detours, quiet pub pitstops, and sweeping Atlantic views.

West Dorset offers a walking landscape like nowhere else. From the wild shingle of Chesil Bank and the high hill-forts of Marshwood Vale to Thomas Hardy’s thatched birthplace, join veteran journalist Martin Hesp on six classic circular routes - complete with local pub recommendations on every route.

From the coastal slopes of Exmoor to the high ridge paths of the Quantock Hills, explore 6 of the best circular pub walks in Somerset - featuring historic inns, ancient hill forts, and cozy fireside stops.

Discover six outstanding Devon pub walks, from dramatic Atlantic sea-cliffs and leafy coastal undercliffs to shadowy river gorges and ancient escarpments—each paired with a top-notch local inn for well-earned refreshment.

High in the Italian Alps lies an eminently convenient stop-over that is Paradise by name and nature. From wild ibex grazing above the tree line to dramatic glacial valleys and historic mountain huts, Gran Paradiso National Park remains the most breathtaking of mainland Europe's protected wildernesses.

Dartmoor offers some of the most exhilarating walking terrain in the Westcountry, from deep gorges to vast open skies. But a good hike is always better with a destination. Join me on six fantastic circular walking routes across the moor, each finishing exactly where a great walk should: at a proper, traditional Dartmoor pub.

For pure landscape drama, few locations in England can match the vertiginous cliffs and romantic history of Lynton and Lynmouth. Discover the deep river gorges, the legendary Valley of Rocks, and a beautifully restored historic inn right in the heart of Exmoor's "Little Switzerland."

Discover the wild, untamed side of the Cornish coast. Skip the crowded tourist resorts and explore the true secrets of Cornwall's shores—from the pristine, ink-blotting white sands of St Martin's and the Cold War mysteries of Great Bay, to hidden smugglers' paths, shipwreck legacies, and the forgotten post-industrial coves carved out by Victorian miners. Your ultimate guide to the finest hidden beaches in the West Country.

Discover one of Exmoor's wildest circular walks as Martin Hesp explores windswept Hawkridge, ancient woodland and the legendary Tarr Steps, weaving history, colourful characters and breathtaking scenery into an unforgettable four-mile adventure.

From the high crest of Dunkery Beacon to the deep ravine of the River Exe, explore five classic circular walks capturing the haunting history, wild landscapes, and best traditional pubs of Exmoor National Park.

**Excerpt** When temperatures soar, there are better places to walk than crowded beaches and sun-baked lanes. Join Martin Hesp on ten of his favourite West Country walks, where cooling sea breezes, shady woodland, open moorland and peaceful islands make perfect escapes during a summer heatwave.

Need a walk to lift the spirits? This magnificent 6-mile circular from Coleton Fishacre explores Kingswear, the Dart Estuary, Froward Point and one of the most beautiful stretches of the South Devon coast.

This delightful Exmoor walk combines ancient woodland, sweeping moorland views, a lost medieval settlement, red deer country and the enchanting East Water Valley beneath Dunkery Beacon. A perfect introduction to one of the most beautiful corners of Exmoor.

One of Cornwall's finest beach walks, this easy four-mile circular route from Bude combines dramatic cliff-top scenery, rolling coastal downs, golden sands and fascinating maritime history. Just be sure to check the tides before setting off.

A long and exhilarating Dartmoor hike from Belstone to Taw Head, following the River Taw towards its remote source beneath Hangingstone Hill. This memorable seven-mile walk takes in Taw Marsh, Oke Tor, Steeperton Tor, Belstone Tor and some of the wildest scenery in Devon.

Escape to Dartmoor’s wide-open spaces on this easy four-mile walk from Saddle Tor to Buckland Beacon, with sweeping views, ancient legends, and the famous Ten Commandments stones.

A spontaneous stop on Dorset’s dramatic coast road leads to a bracing walk along Cogden Beach to West Bexington. Tough underfoot but richly rewarding, this stretch of Chesil Beach offers wild scenery, quirky beach art and a memorable meal at The Club House.

A BBC Radio 4 play about Exmoor writer Hope Bourne sparked memories of a remarkable encounter on the moors. This personal story reveals her fiercely independent life in a remote caravan, her outspoken views, and the extraordinary resilience that made her one of Britain’s most fascinating countryside voices.

The Lizard Peninsula is Cornwall’s most dramatic and distinctive landscape — a windswept headland stretching into the Atlantic and home to Britain’s most southerly point. From the turquoise waters of Kynance Cove to the timeless fishing village of Cadgwith, this remarkable corner of the West Country feels more like Brittany than Britain.