Free guided nature and history walks at Northam Burrows

Join the Northam Burrows Rangers, the Finding Nature’s Footprints team and local experts for a walk each month to enjoy some fresh air and company outdoors.

The ‘Nature’s Tonic’ walks on Thursdays are gentle, short excursions lasting less than one hour on easy terrain. They are perfect for people seeking some fresh air and companionship but who may not be very active or confident in outdoor settings.

If you fancy something a little more strenuous, the ‘Good Start to the Week’ walks on Mondays cover longer distances and involve more challenging terrain, lasting at least two hours.

There are various themed walks running in the next several weeks and into the summer.

These begin on Thursday, May 1 with Skylark Song – Meet at the Westward Ho! gate of Northam Burrows (EX39 1HN) at 3pm.

On Monday, May 19, join a World War Two history tour of Northam Burrows, led by local historian Dave Edgcombe. Meet at the Appledore gate of the Burrows (EX39 1NL), 1.30pm-4pm.

There is an hour Spring Flowers walk on Thursday, June 5 – meet at Northam Burrows visitor centre (EX39 1XS) at 3pm.

Explore the Summer Flowers of the sand dunes and coastal grasslands on Northam Burrows on Monday, June 16 with a two hour walk. Meet at 2pm at the Northam Burrows visitor centre.

Beautiful butterflies will take up an hour of your time on Thursday, July 3 – meet at the visitor centre at 3pm.

On Monday, July 14 historian Dave Edgcombe will lead the History of Westward Ho! walk, starting at 1.30pm at WWH slipway and exploring the early days of the resort.

All events are free and no pre-booking is required, but toll charges apply if you wish to drive a vehicle onto Northam Burrows. 

For more information about any of the events please visit https://www.torridge.gov.uk/northamburrows or call 01237 497708.

Sean Kearney, head of communities and place at Torridge District Council, said: “The guided walks offer an ideal opportunity for people to join other like-minded individuals to get outside and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of being outdoors. 

“We are lucky to have such a diverse range of beautiful landscapes within Torridge, and these expert led sessions will help walkers learn just a little bit more about what our area has to offer.”