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The Ultimate Cornish Seaside Guide: Hidden Coves & Secret Sands
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.
Martin Hesp
6 days ago8 min read


5 Best Pub Walks on Exmoor: Historic Trails & Classic Inns
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.
Martin Hesp
Jun 3012 min read


Coleton Fishacre Walk: A Spectacular South Devon Coast Path Circular
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.
Martin Hesp
Jun 185 min read


Bude Beach Walk: Crooklets, Northcott Mouth and Summerleaze Downs
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.
Martin Hesp
Jun 124 min read


The Most Varied Coast in Britain: From Mudflats to Ancient Pavements
It is arguably the most varied stretch of coast anywhere in Britain. From the mud-horse fishermen of Bridgwater Bay to the vertiginous wonders of Lynton and Lynmouth, join us on a journey along the mighty littoral that caps this peninsula to the north.
Martin Hesp
Apr 35 min read


Best Exmoor Walks: Favourite Routes Across the Moor, Valleys and Coast
An overview of the walks which can be enjoyed in and around Exmoor National Park - the article introduces you to various walks and areas within the national park
Martin Hesp
Mar 107 min read


From Alpine Peaks to Atlantic Shores: My Definitive Summer 2026 Travel Guide
A quick guide to some of the places we think will be influential and important for leisure travellers in 2026
Martin Hesp
Feb 43 min read


Speke's Mill Mouth: Discover One of North Devon's Best Hidden Beaches
Hidden beneath the towering cliffs near Hartland Quay, Speke's Mill Mouth is one of Devon's most spectacular secret beaches. Follow the South West Coast Path to discover a waterfall plunging onto a wild Atlantic shore.
Martin Hesp
Aug 11, 20256 min read


St Ives, Cornwall: Why Britain's Most Beautiful Harbour Town Still Captivates Visitors
From golden beaches and artistic heritage to a bustling fishing harbour and winding granite streets, discover why St Ives remains one of Cornwall's most captivating seaside towns.
Martin Hesp
Apr 14, 20259 min read


Fowey Hall Walk Circular: One of Cornwall's Best Coastal Walks via Lantic Bay
Follow one of Cornwall's finest circular walks from Fowey through Hall Walk, Pont Pill, Lantic Bay and Polruan, with two ferry crossings and unforgettable coastal scenery.
Martin Hesp
Dec 4, 20244 min read


Cornish Walks: Church Cove and Gunwalloe on Cornwall's Wild Lizard Coast
Church Cove at Gunwalloe is one of Cornwall's most magical coastal locations. This beautiful walk explores secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, the famous Church of the Storms, Dollar Cove and some of the finest scenery on the Lizard Peninsula.
Martin Hesp
Oct 28, 20225 min read


Exmoor Walks: Lynton & Lynmouth Circular Walk via Valley of Rocks and Cliff Railway
Looking for one of the very best Exmoor walks? This spectacular circular route explores the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth before climbing through the Valley of Rocks to some of England's most dramatic coastal scenery, with breathtaking sea views, literary history and the famous water-powered Cliff Railway.
Martin Hesp
Jun 27, 20225 min read


The 10 Best Beaches in Devon and Cornwall for the 2026 Heatwave (and Beyond)
Looking for the best beaches in Devon and Cornwall? From golden surfing beaches and secluded coves to family favourites and hidden gems, discover ten spectacular stretches of coast chosen by award-winning travel writer Martin Hesp. Whether you're planning a summer holiday, a day trip or a coastal walk, these are beaches you'll want to visit.
Martin Hesp
Jun 14, 20214 min read


Wild Pear Beach, North Devon: Walking to Great Hangman and Little Hangman
Wild Pear Beach lies beneath the towering cliffs of Great Hangman and Little Hangman on one of North Devon's most dramatic stretches of coast. Discover hidden coves, spectacular walks and remarkable wartime history.
Martin Hesp
Feb 19, 20217 min read


Cornish Walks - Talland Bay to Polperro
Follow one of Cornwall's loveliest coastal walks from peaceful Talland Bay to the picture-postcard fishing village of Polperro. This rewarding stretch of the South West Coast Path offers dramatic sea views, hidden coves, rich wildlife and plenty of opportunities to pause, explore and enjoy one of the county's most memorable seaside rambles.
Martin Hesp
Jan 8, 20215 min read


Cornish Walks: Tregardock Beach and One of North Cornwall's Best Coastal Walks
Looking for one of Cornwall's hidden treasures? This spectacular coastal walk to Tregardock Beach explores one of North Cornwall's quietest and most beautiful stretches of coastline, with towering cliffs, secret coves, wild Atlantic scenery and unforgettable views along the South West Coast Path.
Martin Hesp
Dec 6, 20205 min read


The Cornish Coast: Hidden Coves, Dramatic Cliffs and Timeless Fishing Villages
After exploring Cornwall for more than 50 years, I've discovered secret coves, dramatic cliffs, picturesque harbours and unforgettable coastal walks. This is a personal journey around one of Britain's most spectacular coastlines.
Martin Hesp
Jun 17, 20205 min read


Thinking About Thurlestone
A spectacular circular walk along the South West Coast Path from the grand village of Thurlestone down to the sunlit shelter of Hope Cove. Packed with spooky local folklore, maritime mysteries, and stunning views across Bigbury Bay, this is the South Hams at its finest.
Martin Hesp
Mar 1, 20205 min read


Hope Cove Walk: One of Devon's Most Beautiful South West Coast Path Walks
Explore one of South Devon's most rewarding coastal walks from the picturesque fishing village of Hope Cove. Follow the South West Coast Path to dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, panoramic sea views and some of England's finest coastal scenery.
Martin Hesp
Jan 20, 20205 min read
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