Autumn in Devon is a feast for the senses, crunchy leaves underfoot, golden light stretching across rolling hills, and peaceful trails through woodland, moorland and along the coast. It’s the perfect time to explore the county on foot, soak up the colours of the season, and enjoy the slower pace of countryside life.
Whether you’re planning a short break or a long escape, here are our top tips for making the most of your autumn walks in Devon.
1. Dress for the Season
Devon’s autumn weather is famously changeable. Mornings might start misty and cool, before opening up to bright sunshine, or sudden showers!
- Dress in layers
- Pack a waterproof jacket
- Wear sturdy, waterproof walking boots
Top tip: A warm hat and gloves can make a big difference on breezy hilltops or forest paths.
2. Choose the Right Walk
Devon has a walking trail for every mood and ability. From gentle circular routes to more challenging hikes, there's no shortage of autumn beauty to explore.
- Woodland Walks
Haldon Forest Park: family-friendly trails with stunning tree canopies
Whiddon Deer Park: lovely oak woodlands and a chance to spot deer
- Moorland Magic
Dartmoor: tors, wild ponies, and miles of open skies
Exmoor: colourful heather and dramatic valley views
- Coastal Colour
South West Coast Path: rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and sea breezes
Many of our farm stays are near fantastic walking routes; ask your host for a local favourite!
3. Take a Flask and Snacks
Autumn walks are even better with a hot drink and a treat. Bring along a flask of tea, coffee or hot chocolate and pack a few energy-boosting snacks.
Why not stop at a local farm shop or café along the way? Many offer homemade cakes, pasties, and seasonal goodies like Devon apple cake.
4. Connect with Nature
Autumn is full of wildlife moments:
? Red and fallow deer during rutting season (especially in Exmoor)
? Birds gathering for migration along the Exe Estuary
?? Squirrels busily foraging in the trees
Bring your binoculars and slow down, some of the best moments are the quietest.
5. Catch the Golden Light
The low sun of autumn casts a magical glow across Devon’s landscape. For the best lighting (and photos!), walk during the golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset.
- Brentor Church on Dartmoor is a spectacular sunset spot
- Morte Point on the North Devon coast offers incredible coastal views
6. Be Prepared
Shorter days and cooler weather mean it's important to be prepared:
- Check the forecast before you head out
- Take a map or download your route
- Let someone know your plans if walking solo
Many of our holiday cottages and B&Bs provide local walking maps, guidebooks and advice.
7. Support Local Along the Way
Make your autumn walk even more meaningful by supporting local:
- Stop at a countryside pub for a hearty lunch
- Browse farm shops for chutneys, jams, and crafts
- Visit local markets for fresh produce and gifts
You’ll find friendly faces and fabulous flavours all across Devon.
Final Thoughts...
Autumn in Devon is a celebration of nature’s beauty, from leaf strewn trails to golden sunsets and the comforting smell of woodsmoke in the air.
So, pack your boots, bring your camera, and come and experience the very best of the season with us here at Devon Farms & Country Stays.
Book your autumn escape today and walk straight into the season.
Self catering cottages in the heart of South Devon with lots of animals and excellent child friendly facilities including indoor pool, toddler soft play, walk-in rabbit area & tennis court.
Modern spacious rooms with luxury bathrooms. All with direct access to our court yard, we have plenty of space for outdoor dining. All set in a secluded valley a short drive from the coast.
17th C converted Barn 2 ensuite bedrooms, & a traditional thatched 2 bedroom cottage sleeps 5 in heart of the beautiful Mid Devon countryside. Lots of walks, pubs, relax & unwind on this family farm
Four comfortable fully equipped cottages. Peaceful setting in beautiful South Hams valley on historic 80-acre working sheep farm. Ideal location for a relaxing holiday
Five spacious real log cabins, beautiful views across Exmoor, fully equipped kitchen, central heating with log burner, safe enclosed garden. Working dairy farm with sheep, pigs and poultry.
Stay in our granite cottages. Climb the hill, you'll love the view. Relax by our heated pool or cycle the beautiful Wray valley trail to Moretonhampstead. Great places to eat in town.
Close to Jurassic coast on a working farm. Orchard Meadow - an individual converted barn with a large open living space, 3 bedrooms (1 ground floor) 3 bathrooms and enclosed dog friendly garden.
Self catering close to the coast with private woodland walks, near Woolacombe / Croyde. 6 family run cottages with EV charger. Dogs welcome (except Clematis), Short Breaks or longer.
4 newly renovated cottages & cabin sleeping 2-6 in beautiful East Devon hills. Heated outdoor pool, tennis court, games room. Dog friendly. Close to Jurassic Coast/Sidmouth/Lyme Regis.
Self catering comfortable accommodation in peaceful rural setting. 3 spacious barn conversions with unique charm. High standard & well equipped. On farm, large Oak trees. AONB. 15 mins Jurassic Coast.
Stunning Manor & charming Country Cottages, on the edge of Dartmoor. Sleeps 2- 24 ideal for families of all ages/sizes. Play area/barn, wifi, woodfires, animal feeding, acres of space, farmshop+ pub.
Award winning cottages set in unspoilt countryside overlooking the sea - minutes from the golden sandy beaches at Woolacombe, Saunton & Croyde and a short walk from Lee Bay and the Grampus village pub
Four charming apartments in our converted farm barns. Set in the heart of Devon within our working farm, our luxury apartments, sleeping between one and four people are cosy and quiet.