Torcross and Slapton Ley

David Simkins

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Slapton and Torcross are very popular tourist spots (hence the £6.50 all-day parking charge) but very few will venture further than the beach. This walk will take you through the villages of Torcross and Stokenham, partly along the South West Coast Path and along the little South Hams lanes, returning via the Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. The Ley is a huge lake cut off from the sea by a narrow spit of land that carries the A379 road between Dartmouth and Kingsbridge. One day the sea will breach this vulnerable road once more and the waters of the Ley will flow into the sea. You will walk past reedbeds and by the open water, so for all you keen birdwatchers a reminder to bring your bins with you. There are several hides along the side of the marsh and water. There is also a delightful little private wood you are encouraged to walk through, particularly attractive in the spring when the bluebells are out.
This is a circular walk, so if you are going to feel the pain of a parking charge there is unlimited parking in Stokenham and next to the Ley where it meets the road at the southern end. I am sure the Church House Inn would be very pleased for you to use their car park if you return to use their bar and restaurant.

England - South West England - Devon - Coast