New initiative launched to promote East Devon’s inland path

Pull on your walking boots and start trekking the East Devon Way.

That’s the call from countryside lovers keen to see this inland alternative to the South West Coast Path appreciated by more people and cherished by more businesses.

The East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership is launching the initiative as part of its ongoing 50th anniversary celebrations,

The 40-mile walking route joins Lyme Regis to Exmouth through the very heart of the East Devon AONB. The network of rights of way, permissive paths and quiet rural lanes which make up the East Devon Way take in hill forts and heathland, river valleys and woodland, towns and villages rich in character.

Together they provide a very different experience for every season of the year – making it a great, new, walking offer.

John Wilding, East Devon AONB partnership chairman and Clinton Devon Estates head of forestry and environment said: “Alongside a new East Devon Way walking guide, will be a simple route-planning website allowing walkers to identify at a glance where the nearest and most appropriate accommodation or watering hole is for their needs, on or adjacent to the route.

“We at Clinton Devon Estates are also pleased to have assisted in minor route amendments, allowing walkers of the route to get closer to the Iron Age encampment of Woodbury Castle on The Commons.”

Anyone interested in having their business signposted as part of this new tourism initiative for 2014 should get in touch with Karen Whittaker, East Devon AONB team, on 01404 46663 or info@eastdevonaonb.org.uk by January 20.

* The East Devon Way was first established by the East Devon District Council back in 1993 with the help of landowners, walking groups and local conservation groups. The route is now maintained by the Devon County Council Rights of Way team in partnership with many volunteer Parish Path wardens.