A Scenic Stroll Along the River Otter: Budleigh Salterton to Otterton
Discover one of East Devon’s most picturesque walks by following the serene footpath along the River Otter, starting from Budleigh Salterton and leading to the charming village of Otterton. This easy, family-friendly route is a delightful blend of coastal beauty, rich wildlife, and quaint countryside charm.
Starting Point: Budleigh Salterton
Begin your adventure at the Lime Kiln Car Park on the seafront in Budleigh Salterton. From here, head east toward the River Otter and the Otter Estuary. This nature reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with habitats including salt marshes, reed beds, meadows, and pastureland. Birdwatchers, keep your binoculars ready! The area is home to species like cormorants, redshanks, common sandpipers, and curlews.
The Riverside Path to Otterton
Follow the meandering river path north for approximately two miles, enjoying tranquil views as the countryside unfolds around you. Arriving in Otterton, you’ll be greeted by a quintessential English village featuring a lush green, thatched cottages, and a gentle stream running through its heart.
Exploring Otterton Mill
No visit to Otterton is complete without stopping at the historic Otterton Mill. Nestled by the river, this working watermill has been producing flour and baking bread for centuries. Explore the mill for free, and treat yourself to freshly baked goodies at the bakery or a meal at the café-restaurant. There’s also a gift shop, local food store, and art gallery to peruse.
Returning to Budleigh Salterton
After enjoying the village, continue your walk south along the eastern side of the river. This shared path for walkers and cyclists passes Otterton Park and The Warren before crossing the river to return to Budleigh Salterton.
Extend Your Adventure
For those looking to explore further:
- Ladram Bay: Just a mile east of Otterton, Ladram Bay boasts striking sandstone sea stacks and a cozy beach.
- Woodbury Common: West of Otterton, this vast expanse offers heathland trails, gorse, heather, and unique pebblebeds shaped by ancient rivers.
- Jurassic Coast Path: Head west from Budleigh Salterton along the coast path to Exmouth and Orcombe Point. Don’t miss the Geoneedle sculpture, a testament to the diverse rock formations of the Jurassic Coast.
Whether you’re here for the scenery, the history, or the wildlife, this walk offers something special at every turn.
