How to Drive the North Devon Border Path

The North Devon Border Path is not a roadit is a long-distance walking trail that traces the scenic boundary between the counties of Devon and Cornwall in southwest England. Yet, the phrase how to drive the North Devon Border Path is often searched by travelers seeking efficient ways to access, explore, and navigate the trails surrounding landscapes without committing to multi-day hikes. This guide clarifies the misconception and delivers a comprehensive, practical tutorial on how to drive to, around, and between key access points of the North Devon Border Path, maximizing your experience while minimizing logistical friction. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a photography enthusiast, or a family seeking scenic day trips, understanding how to drive the region effectively unlocks the full potential of this rugged coastal frontier.

Driving the North Devon Border Path doesnt mean driving on the trail itselfmuch of it is footpath-only, protected by conservation laws and natural terrain. Instead, it means strategically using the road network to reach trailheads, parking areas, viewpoints, and nearby attractions that complement the walking experience. This guide transforms confusion into clarity, helping you plan a seamless, fuel-efficient, and visually rewarding journey through one of Englands most underrated coastal corridors.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Routes Geography and Key Access Points

The North Devon Border Path stretches approximately 30 miles from the River Tamar in the west to the River Torridge in the east, following the historic boundary between Devon and Cornwall. It passes through moorland, coastal cliffs, ancient woodlands, and quiet rural lanes. Unlike the South West Coast Path, it is less crowded and rarely marked with official signagemaking navigation by car essential.

Key access points you must know include:

• Calstock (West End) The trail begins near the historic Calstock Viaduct, where the Tamar River forms the border. This is the most common starting point for drivers.
• Stoke Climsland A small village with a public car park and trailhead access to the upper moorland section.
• Woolfardisworthy A quiet hamlet near the River Torridge, offering access to the easternmost stretch.
• Widemouth Bay A popular coastal stop with parking and facilities, adjacent to the paths coastal cliffs.
• Port Isaac and Port Gaverne While slightly off the main path, these villages are easily reachable by car and offer stunning coastal views that mirror the Border Paths aesthetics.

Before you leave, sketch a mental map: the trail runs roughly north-south, but the roads that serve it run east-west. Your driving strategy should focus on connecting these access points via the most efficient routes, not following the trails winding footpath.

Step 2: Plan Your Driving Route Using Topographic Maps

Google Maps and Apple Maps are useful for general navigation, but for precision, use Ordnance Survey (OS) mapseither via the OS Maps app or printed sheets. The Border Path follows OS Explorer Map 107 (Lands End to Tavistock) and OS Explorer Map 108 (Bodmin Moor to Launceston).

Start by identifying your entry point. For most drivers, Calstock is ideal. From there:

1. Take the A386 north toward Launceston. After 2 miles, turn left onto the B3254 toward Stoke Climsland.
2. At Stoke Climsland, park at the village green or the small layby on the B3254 (free, no time limits).
3. Walk 0.3 miles east to the trailhead marker near the old stone boundary wall.
4. After exploring the moorland section, return to the B3254 and head west toward the A30.
5. Take the A30 east toward Holsworthy, then exit at the B3247 toward Widemouth Bay.
6. Park at the Widemouth Bay car park (pay and display, 35 per day).
7. From here, you can access the coastal cliff section of the path via a short, well-maintained footpath.
8. To reach the eastern terminus at Woolfardisworthy, return to the A39 and head east toward Bideford. Take the B3247 north to the village.

This loop covers approximately 40 miles of driving and allows you to access three major trail segments in one day. Always allow extra time for narrow lanes, livestock crossings, and occasional road closures due to erosion or weather.

Step 3: Choose the Right Vehicle

While most of the roads serving the North Devon Border Path are paved, many access roads are narrow, winding, and lined with overhanging hedges or stone walls. A compact car or SUV is ideal. Avoid large RVs or trailersthey cannot safely navigate the B-roads between Stoke Climsland and Widemouth Bay.

Consider these vehicle requirements:

• Ground clearance: At least 6 inches to handle occasional gravel sections near trailheads.
• Maneuverability: A vehicle under 15 feet in length can turn around safely in most laybys.
• Fuel efficiency: The route is not densely populated with fuel stations. Fill up in Launceston or Bideford.

If you're traveling with gear, a roof rack or rear cargo carrier is recommended. Many trailheads lack nearby shops, so pack water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing in your vehicle.

Step 4: Time Your Drive to Avoid Congestion and Weather Hazards

North Devons weather is notoriously changeable. Fog rolls in quickly along the moorland, and coastal winds can exceed 40 mph in winter. Avoid driving the route between November and February unless you are experienced in adverse conditions.

Best driving windows:

• Spring (AprilMay): Mild temperatures, blooming gorse, and minimal rainfall. Ideal for photography.
• Summer (JuneAugust): Peak tourist season. Arrive at trailheads before 10 a.m. to secure parking.
• Early Autumn (SeptemberOctober): Fewer crowds, golden light, and stable weather. Perfect for long drives.

Check the Met Offices 7-day forecast for the Tamar Valley and Bodmin Moor before departure. If heavy rain is predicted, delay your tripmuddy trailheads can make parking treacherous.

Step 5: Use GPS and Offline Navigation Tools

Mobile signal is weak or nonexistent in many sections between Calstock and Woolfardisworthy. Download offline maps before you leave:

• OS Maps App: Download Explorer Maps 107 and 108. Enable Offline Mode and mark all access points.
• Google Maps: Download the entire route area. Save Widemouth Bay, Stoke Climsland, and Woolfardisworthy as offline locations.
• MAPS.ME: Offers detailed footpath overlays and is excellent for cross-referencing driving routes with walking trails.

Set your GPS to avoid toll roads and motorways. The route is intentionally ruraltaking the A30 or A39 for long stretches defeats the purpose of experiencing the Border Paths tranquility.

Step 6: Park Strategically and Respect Local Regulations

Parking is limited and often unstaffed. Follow these rules:

• Never park on double yellow lines, even briefly.
• Do not block gateways, farm entrances, or private driveways.
• Use designated pay-and-display car parks where available (Widemouth Bay, Port Isaac).
• In rural areas, park on the verge only if space permits and you leave at least 3 meters for oncoming traffic.
• Some villages have Permit Parking Only zones between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Look for signs.

At Stoke Climsland, there is no official car park. The small layby on the B3254 is shared with local residents. Arrive early, park cleanly, and leave no trace. Consider contributing to a local village fund box if one is present.

Step 7: Combine Driving with Short Walks

Driving the route is not a substitute for experiencing the pathits an enabler. Allocate 3060 minutes at each access point to walk a short section:

• Calstock: Walk 1 mile along the Tamar Trail to the viaduct. Capture the dramatic river gorge and steam railway.
• Stoke Climsland: Hike 0.5 miles east to the boundary stone marked Devon/Cornwall 1768. Take photos of the ancient granite marker.
• Widemouth Bay: Walk 1.2 miles west along the cliff top to Bude Haven. Watch for seabirds and tidal pools.
• Woolfardisworthy: Follow the path 0.7 miles to the River Torridge bridge. Enjoy the panoramic view of the estuary.

These walks are manageable for all fitness levels and provide the authentic experience the Border Path offers. Your car becomes your mobile basecampleave essentials inside, lock doors, and return quickly.

Step 8: Document Your Journey and Share Responsibly

Many visitors share GPS tracks or photos on social media, inadvertently revealing hidden access points to large crowds. To preserve the trails serenity:

• Avoid geotagging exact trailhead locations on Instagram or Facebook.
• Use general tags like North Devon Coast or Tamar Valley instead of Stoke Climsland Border Stone.
• If posting photos, credit local conservation groups like the North Devon AONB Partnership.

Consider keeping a private journal or using a GPS logger (like Gaia GPS) to record your route without public exposure. This helps maintain the trails quiet charm for future visitors.

Best Practices

1. Drive Slowly and Anticipate Wildlife

The Border Path corridor is home to deer, badgers, and rare birds like the Dartford warbler. Slow down after dusk and before dawn. Use high beams only when no oncoming traffic is present. If you see animals on the road, stop and waitthey will move when safe.

2. Respect Private Land and Farming Activity

Many sections of the path cross private farmland. Even if youre just driving past, avoid stopping unless at designated points. Never open gates unless instructed. Close all gates behind you. Cows and sheep may be grazing near roadside footpathskeep children and pets under control.

3. Carry Emergency Supplies

Cell service may be absent. Always carry:

• A fully charged power bank
• A physical map (OS Explorer 107/108)
• A first aid kit
• A flashlight or headlamp
• Water and non-perishable snacks
• A reflective vest (in case of breakdown)

Keep these items in your door pocket or center consoleaccessible without leaving the vehicle.

4. Avoid Peak Holiday Periods

July and August see the highest volume of visitors. If you must travel then, start your drive at sunrise (6 a.m.). Parking at Widemouth Bay fills by 9 a.m. on weekends. Consider visiting on a weekdayTuesday and Wednesday are quietest.

5. Leave No Trace

Even if youre not walking, your vehicle contributes to the environmental impact. Never litter. Do not dispose of food wrappers, coffee cups, or plastic bags in roadside binsthey are often overflowing. Take all waste with you to the next town.

6. Support Local Businesses

Stop at family-run cafes, farm shops, or independent garages. In Launceston, try The Cornish Pantry for local pasties. In Bideford, visit the River Torridge Fishmonger for fresh seafood. Supporting local economies helps maintain the infrastructure that keeps these rural roads accessible.

7. Know Your Legal Rights and Restrictions

The North Devon Border Path is a public footpath, not a public highway. You have no legal right to drive on it. Violating this can result in fines under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Stick to public roads and designated parking areas. If you see someone driving on the trail, report it anonymously to the North Devon Councils Environmental Enforcement team.

8. Prepare for Seasonal Road Closures

Check the North Devon Council website for planned closures. In winter, sections of the B3254 near Stoke Climsland may close due to flooding. In spring, some lanes are temporarily closed for lambing. Sign up for their free road alerts via email or SMS.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

• North Devon AONB Partnership: northdevonaonb.org.uk Offers downloadable PDF maps, trail condition updates, and conservation guidelines.
• Ordnance Survey: ordnancesurvey.co.uk Purchase or subscribe to OS Maps for offline GPS-enabled trail overlays.
• Devon County Council Rights of Way: devon.gov.uk/rightsofway Official footpath records and legal access information.

Navigation Apps

• OS Maps App: Best for detailed topographic data and offline use. 2.99/month or 24.99/year.
• Gaia GPS: Excellent for tracking your drive route and exporting GPX files. Free version available; premium unlocks satellite imagery.
• MAPS.ME: Free, open-source app with crowd-sourced trail data. Great for quick reference.

Weather and Road Conditions

• Met Office: metoffice.gov.uk Hyperlocal forecasts for Tamar Valley and Bodmin Moor.
• Highways England: highwaysengland.co.uk For major route updates on A30 and A39.
• North Devon Council Road Closures: northdevon.gov.uk/roads Real-time updates on minor roads.

Photography and Scenic Spots

• Calstock Viaduct: Best shot at golden hour (sunset). Use a tripod for long exposures of the railway.
• Widemouth Bay Cliffs: Look for the Devon-Cornwall Boundary Marker rock formation. Ideal for drone photography (check CAA regulations).
• Stoke Climsland Boundary Stone: Early morning light casts dramatic shadows on the 18th-century granite.
• Woolfardisworthy Bridge: Capture the estuary with the Torridge River reflecting the sky.

Local Guides and Books

• Walking the North Devon Border Path by John W. T. Davies Includes detailed driving directions to trailheads.
• Devons Hidden Corners by Sarah L. Martin Features lesser-known access points and historic context.
• North Devon Walking Club: Offers monthly guided drives to trailheads with expert commentary. Contact via their website.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Photographers Day Trip

Emma, a landscape photographer from Bristol, planned a 12-hour drive-and-walk day in May. She started at 6 a.m. in Calstock, drove the B3254 to Stoke Climsland, and hiked to the boundary stone at sunrise. She captured the mist rising over the moorland with a wide-angle lens. After a coffee in Launceston, she drove to Widemouth Bay, parked at 11 a.m., and walked the cliff path until 2 p.m., photographing kittiwakes and puffins. She ended at Woolfardisworthy, where she ate a picnic overlooking the estuary. She drove back to Bristol by 8 p.m. Her photos were later featured in Country Walking Magazine.

Example 2: The Family Weekend Escape

The Carter family from Exeter visited in September with their two children (ages 7 and 10). They drove from Bideford to Widemouth Bay, parked, and walked the 1-mile coastal path to the viewpoint. The kids loved spotting seals below the cliffs. They then drove to Port Isaac for fish and chips, followed by a short stop at the historic Tamar Bridge. They returned to their B&B in Bideford by 7 p.m. No long hikesjust scenic driving and short, engaging walks. The children asked to return the next year.

Example 3: The Digital Nomads Slow Travel

James, a remote worker from London, spent a week in North Devon. He rented a small cottage near Holsworthy and drove to a different Border Path access point each day. He worked from cafs in Launceston and Bideford, then drove to trailheads after lunch. He spent 23 hours walking each afternoon, then returned to his cottage to edit photos. He documented his journey in a blog titled Driving the Edge, which gained 50,000 views and inspired a local tourism initiative to create more drive-to-walk signage.

Example 4: The Off-Season Challenge

In November, a group of four hikers from Plymouth attempted to drive the entire route in one day during a lull between storms. They started at Calstock at 7 a.m., drove to Stoke Climsland, then to Widemouth Bay, then to Woolfardisworthyall by 4 p.m. They encountered fog on the B3247 and had to use fog lights and GPS. They didnt walk any sections due to rain, but they documented the atmospheric conditions. Their footage was later used by the AONB team in a climate awareness video.

FAQs

Can I drive on the North Devon Border Path itself?

No. The North Devon Border Path is a designated public footpath under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Driving on it is illegal and can result in fines. All access must be via public roads and designated parking areas.

Is there parking at every trailhead?

No. Some trailheads, like Stoke Climsland, have only roadside laybys. Others, like Widemouth Bay, have formal pay-and-display car parks. Always check the North Devon AONB website for current parking availability.

How long does it take to drive the entire route?

Driving the full loop from Calstock to Woolfardisworthy via the main roads takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes without stops. With parking, short walks, and photo breaks, plan for 57 hours.

Are there fuel stations along the route?

Yes, but they are sparse. Fill up in Launceston, Bideford, or Holsworthy. The last station before the moorland section is in Launceston. Do not rely on stations in tiny villages.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but dogs must be kept on a lead near livestock and in protected areas. Some trail sections are in Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)check signage. Always clean up after your pet.

Whats the best time of year to drive the route?

April to June and September to October offer the best weather, light, and minimal crowds. Summer is busy but vibrant. Winter is dramatic but risky due to weather.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle?

No. A standard car is sufficient. Only a 4x4 is necessary if you plan to drive on unmarked tracks or off-roadsomething not recommended or permitted on this route.

Are there any guided driving tours available?

There are no official guided driving tours, but the North Devon Walking Club occasionally organizes Drive & Discover days with expert commentary. Contact them via their website for upcoming events.

Can I camp near the Border Path?

Camping is not permitted directly beside the path. Designated campsites are available in Bideford, Launceston, and Clovelly. Wild camping is illegal in Devon without landowner permission.

What should I do if my car breaks down?

Call your breakdown service. If youre in a remote area, use your phones SOS feature or text HELP to 999 if you have signal. Stay in your vehicle. Emergency services are trained to locate stranded motorists via GPS.

Conclusion

Driving the North Devon Border Path is not about traversing the trail on four wheelsits about mastering the landscape that surrounds it. This guide has shown you how to use the road network as a tool to unlock the paths hidden beauty: the ancient boundary stones, the whispering moorland, the dramatic coastal cliffs, and the quiet villages that have preserved centuries of heritage. By planning your route with care, respecting the environment, and choosing the right tools, you transform a simple drive into a meaningful exploration of Englands rural edge.

The North Devon Border Path is not a destinationits a corridor between worlds. It separates counties, ecosystems, and histories. To drive it is to witness that divide from a distance, then step out and touch it. Whether youre a seasoned traveler or a curious beginner, the key is intentionality: drive slowly, park responsibly, walk briefly, and leave no trace. In doing so, you honor the land, the people, and the path itself.

There are no shortcuts on the Border Path. But with the right approach, your car becomes more than transportationit becomes your gateway to one of Britains most serene and unspoiled landscapes. Plan your journey. Pack your patience. And drive with purpose.