This spectacular stretch of coastline remains relatively peaceful despite its popularity due to the narrow lanes and how off the beaten track the start points are. Those who venture here then reap the rewards – incredible views, interesting geology, a chance to see some fantastic wildlife and some historic points of interest too.

Start from the car park at Beer Head next to the caravan park. From here head out of the car park exit at the bottom of the hill. Continue opposite along Southdown Road all the way to the end. Here, turn left and immediately right to follow a footpath uphill. At the top, turn right and then take the next left on Mare Lane towards Pecorama.

Continue up this hill, past Pecorama and then look out for a public footpath sign on the left – follow this path which soon turns into a track alongside rolling Devon fields.

After a while you’ll find yourself just south of an area of woodland that shields your view from the ancient Beer Quarry Caves. At a junction, take the track opposite across the field, then continue around the edge of the next field before turning into the woods. Take the path left and descend steeply through the woods towards Branscombe.
Turn left onto the lane and follow this towards the sea for a short way before turning right down footpath signed lane towards the river and then along to Branscombe Mouth.

Enjoy a break at Branscombe Mouth and treat yourself to an ice cream. Here you can also see the 13 tonne anchor from the Napoli ship that ran aground here in 2007.

When you’re feeling fit and ready, follow the South West Coast Path east towards Beer – the path starts opposite the car park roundabout. It’s a long steep climb up through the fields before reaching a number of steep steps that take you up to the top of Hooken Cliff. The views all along the coastline are well worth the hard work!

Continue following this path past Beer Head and back to where you began.

Once you’re back at the car park, you can descend down into the picturesque village of Beer for a well-earned pint and a bite to eat. Come back and try the walk in reverse another day for a completely new view point of this stunning bit of coastline.