South West Coast Path: Coleton Fishacre and Froward Point Loop

The loop typically starts near Coleton Camp. While the trail passes by the Coleton Fishacre Garden Entrance, parking is often available at designated National Trust car parks in the vicinity, such as the one near Coleton Fishacre. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees.

The terrain is varied and can be challenging. You'll encounter a naturally uneven, well-maintained coastal path with steep sections, cliff edges, and uneven ground. Expect a mix of natural paths, paved and unpaved sections, gravel, and some tarmac lane. Sections through woodlands and field footpaths can be muddy, and there are steps and at least one stile to navigate.

This trail is rated as 'moderate' in difficulty and is described as a 'fairly strenuous route with a certain amount of steep ascent and descent'. It requires good fitness due to the uneven terrain, steep sections, and steps. While rewarding, it's best suited for joggers with some experience and a reasonable level of physical conditioning rather than absolute beginners.

You'll experience spectacular coastal scenery with panoramic views over the English Channel and Start Bay. Key features include the Froward Point Battery and Lookout Station, the National Trust property of Coleton Fishacre with its subtropical gardens, and picturesque coves like Pudcombe Cove and Scabbacombe Sands. You'll also see the prominent Mew Stone offshore and may catch glimpses of Dartmouth and Kingswear castles.

Along the coast, you might see seabirds like guillemots and razorbills around the Mew Stone. Keep an eye out for lizards basking on rocks. If you're lucky, you might even spot pods of common dolphins or harbor porpoises at sea. In spring, the cliff tops are vibrant with coastal wildflowers, and wooded areas boast primroses, violets, and bluebells.

Yes, the South West Coast Path is generally dog-friendly, but specific rules may apply in certain areas, especially around livestock or within National Trust properties like Coleton Fishacre. Always keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, and be mindful of cliff edges and other trail users.

Spring is particularly beautiful with coastal wildflowers in bloom, including primroses, violets, and bluebells. Summer offers warmer weather for jogging, but can be busier. Autumn provides pleasant temperatures and changing foliage. Winter can be challenging due to potentially muddy conditions and strong coastal winds, but offers dramatic scenery.

No specific permits are required to jog the public footpaths of the South West Coast Path. The trail is located within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which does not charge an entrance fee for access to its natural areas. However, if you choose to visit the National Trust property of Coleton Fishacre, separate admission fees apply for entry to the house and gardens.

Yes, a significant portion of this route follows the official South West Coast Path (Section 41: Dartmouth to Brixham). It also briefly intersects with a path known as Zig Zag.

While the trail itself is quite remote, you may find facilities at or near the Coleton Fishacre Garden Entrance, which is a National Trust property. For more extensive options, nearby villages or towns like Kingswear or Dartmouth would offer pubs, cafes, and other amenities.

Given the steep ascents and descents, consider jogging the loop in a clockwise direction if you prefer to tackle the steepest climbs earlier in your route. Also, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions typical of coastal paths, even on sunny days.