The best MTB trails around Axe Estuary

If you’re heading to Beer Beach in East Devon, don’t expect a sandy tropical paradise—and definitely don’t expect actual beer flowing from the cliffs (though the name is a great conversation starter). Instead, you get a quintessential, "old-school" British fishing cove that’s basically a natural suntrap tucked between towering white chalk cliffs. It’s part of the Jurassic Coast, so it’s millions of years of history served with a side of fish and chips. Why it’s a "Vibe": The Boats: This isn't a harbor with a pier; the local fishermen literally winch their colorful boats right up onto the shingle (pebble) beach. It’s like a live-action painting watching them bring in the daily catch of mackerel and crab. The "Pebble Massage": Forget sand in your shoes; here, you get smooth, grey pebbles. Pro-tip: Rent one of the iconic blue and white deckchairs. Your lower back will thank you, and you’ll look like a 1950s movie star. The Beach Cafes: There are little huts right on the shingle where you can grab a crab sandwich or a cream tea. Eating fresh seafood while your toes are three feet from the waves? Hard to beat. The Name: Sadly, "Beer" comes from the Old English word bearu, meaning "grove" or "wood." But don't let that stop you—the village has plenty of actual beer in its cozy pubs like The Anchor Inn, which has a cliff-top garden with elite views. Hidden Gems Nearby: Beer Quarry Caves: Just up the road, you can take a tour of the massive underground caverns where the famous "Beer Stone" was mined for cathedrals like Exeter and Westminster Abbey. It’s like a cool, damp cathedral hidden inside a hill. The Coastal Path: If you walk west toward Branscombe, you’ll tackle some steep "stairway to heaven" climbs, but the views of the white cliffs against the blue sea are pure magic.

Passing through this enclosed section if fun. It is enclosed by the surrounding trees, allowing the exit to be seen in the distance, it has a funnel type effect

The track here is enclosed on the sides by high bushes and some bramble spikey branches. You can ride through it but be careful as there are odd branches at head height sticking out. I had a crash in a different location when trying to swerve to miss bramble branches at head height

Around this area you have to ride on a narrow single track. I found there were bramble bush branches and nettles that needed avoiding. Best to wear leg protection, or high socks as shorts and normal socks will see you get nettled

Jurassic Coast - here, as a touring cyclist, you get a nice access with wonderful views, swimming options and good restaurants.

Best cafe for miles . Loads of seating inside and out. Pet friendly. Fantastic cakes and fresh coffee. Staff are brilliant

Colyford Filling Station, built in 1927-8 to the designs of Frederick Kett. Grade II listed building.

A mile-long beach with a mix of sand and shingle, clear water, and a gently sloping shore. It's a great place for swimming, water sports, and walking. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and green hillsides, and is a popular spot for photographers. A flat walking area that runs alongside the beach, with a cafe at one end and the town at the other.