The walk from Ilfracombe to Hele Bay is a short but scenic coastal route in North Devon. Following a section of the South West Coast Path, the walk offers impressive views across the Bristol Channel along with dramatic cliffs and small coves.
Although the distance is relatively short, the route includes some climbs and descents, making it feel like a proper coastal adventure.
Starting in Ilfracombe
The walk begins in the harbour town of Ilfracombe, one of the main coastal towns in North Devon.
From the harbour area, paths lead up towards the cliffs east of the town. As you leave the harbour behind, the view opens out across the sea, with boats often visible in the channel below.
This stretch of coastline shows a different side of Ilfracombe compared with the busy harbour area.
Joining the Coast Path
Once you reach the cliffs, the route follows the South West Coast Path as it winds along the coastline.
The path rises and falls across grassy slopes above the sea, offering wide views across the water and along the rocky coastline. The cliffs here are steep in places, and the scenery can feel surprisingly wild considering how close the walk is to town.
There are several spots along the route where it’s worth stopping to enjoy the view.
Approaching Hele Bay
As the path continues eastwards, the small beach at Hele Bay gradually comes into view below.
Hele Bay is a sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs and hills. The beach itself is smaller than some of the famous sandy beaches further along the coast, but it has a relaxed atmosphere and clear water.
Many walkers stop here for a rest before returning to Ilfracombe.
Exploring Hele Bay
Hele Bay has a small harbour area and a couple of places to stop for food or a drink.
The beach is also known for its rock pools, which appear at low tide and can be interesting to explore. The surrounding cliffs and hillside paths offer good views back along the coastline.
Because it is slightly away from the main tourist areas, the bay often feels quieter than nearby beaches.
Returning to Ilfracombe
Most walkers return to Ilfracombe along the same coast path.
The return journey offers slightly different views across the sea and the cliffs, particularly if the light changes during the walk.
The full return route usually takes a couple of hours at a relaxed pace, depending on how long you spend exploring Hele Bay.
A Short Coastal Adventure
The walk from Ilfracombe to Hele Bay is a great way to experience the dramatic scenery of the North Devon coast without committing to a long hike.
With its cliff-top views, coastal paths and quiet cove at the end of the route, it offers a rewarding introduction to walking along the South West Coast Path.
