South Hams Way: Dart Valley & Moorlands

Dartmouth to Totnes

Climbing out of Dartmouth past St Clement’s Church, the route soon leaves the bustle behind, dipping into peaceful woodland along Old Mill Creek. Following quiet tracks through the Raleigh Estate, the path weaves between trees and open fields with glimpses of the River Dart glittering below. The views widen as you climb, taking in Noss Marina, the Daymark, and even distant Dartmoor.

Beyond the rolling farmland, the way descends towards the riverside village of Dittisham, one of the loveliest spots on the Dart. From here, the trail meanders inland through deep lanes, green valleys, and the pretty village of Cornworthy before reaching the tranquil banks of Bow Creek – alive with herons, swans, and the occasional kingfisher.

A gentle climb brings you to Ashprington, where the Durant Arms and St David’s Church mark the heart of the village. From here, the path follows the Dart valley opposite the Sharpham Estate, offering sweeping views of its vineyards and river bends, before arriving in Totnes, a lively market town crowned by its Norman castle. 

Totnes to Buckfastleigh

Leaving the historic market town of Totnes behind, the South Hams Way sets out along the River Dart, where the faint rumble of trains from the South Devon Steam Railway adds a touch of nostalgia to the opening miles. Soon the route carries you into the Dartington Estate, a landscape steeped in history and creativity, where medieval architecture mingles with modern-day arts, gardens, and deer-park views.

From here, the trail dips into North Wood, a shady stretch alive with birdsong, before rejoining lanes that lead across the River Dart once more at picturesque Staverton Bridge. The neighbouring heritage railway station offers a timely pause, with the chance of tea and cake served from a converted buffet car.

The path continues through fields and green lanes, gradually climbing to deliver wide-open views across the Dart Valley and out towards the distant line of Dartmoor. A final woodland descent leads you to the old stone arches of Austin’s Bridge, and from here it’s a gentle riverside stroll into the lively little town of Buckfastleigh, best known for its abbey, tonic wine, and warm West Country welcome.

Buckfastleigh to South Brent

Leaving Buckfastleigh behind, the path weaves its way through quiet lanes and fields before striking out towards the wild edge of Dartmoor. Early on, the route threads through shady woodland beside the Dean Burn, with the stream reappearing later in the walk beneath a graceful old clapper bridge. From here, you begin to climb, rewarded with sweeping views back over South Devon’s rolling countryside and ahead to the brooding slopes of the moor.

Soon the trail reaches Water Oak Corner, although there are no longer any old oaks here, instead replaced by conifers and a mixture of native trees, and continues across open ground with fine views of the Avon Reservoir glinting in the valley below. A green track carries you down past the reservoir dam and into the deep-sided Avon Valley, where the ruins at Shipley Bridge recall the area’s quarrying past.

The final miles follow quiet paths and lanes through scattered hamlets such as Didworthy and Lutton, before a gentle descent leads you into the welcoming village of South Brent, with Dartmoor now firmly at your back.

South Brent to Ivybridge

From South Brent, the South Hams Way meanders through lanes and along riverside paths, climbing gradually toward Ugborough Beacon, offering 360° views of open moorland to the north and the South Hams countryside to the south. Along the way, you’ll pass intriguing historic features, including the Neolithic chambered tomb at Cuckoo Ball and the site of Moorhaven, a former asylum now repurposed into a striking residential area.

The route then follows the Redlake Tramway, a relic of the clay works that once powered the local economy, before descending toward the town of Ivybridge. Here, the River Erme winds through the streets, past landmarks such as the 16th-century hump-backed bridge that gives the town its name, and the former Stowford Paper Mill, which shaped the community for centuries. A welcoming mix of historic buildings and modern facilities signals the end of the day’s walk, but do take time to explore.

Ivybridge to Yealmpton

Leaving Ivybridge behind, the South Hams Way follows the Erme Plym Trail, tracing the River Erme through leafy parkland and quiet tracks before breaking out into open fields. The route threads its way past the crooked spire of Ermington’s church, with an optional detour into the village for refreshments, before rejoining the riverbank. Crossing Sequers Bridge, you enter the grand estate lands of Flete, where glimpses of the castle appear across the rolling parkland.

From here, the trail winds along woodland edges and field paths, offering a mix of rural calm and sweeping views back over the valley. The walking is varied but never too taxing, with a steady rhythm of lanes, stiles and meadows. Passing the hamlet of Dunstone, the path dips into woodland once more before emerging alongside the River Yealm. Here the way curves gently toward Yealmpton, a lively South Hams village with shops, pubs and good transport links – a lovely end to this rewarding stage of the journey.