Woodbury Common Travel Guide – East Devon’s Great Heathland

East Devon|Exeter|Topsham|Exmouth|Budleigh Salterton|Seaton|Sidmouth|Beer & Branscombe|Colyton & Colyford|Axminster|Honiton|Ottery St Mary |Beaches of East Devon|Woodbury Common

Woodbury Common stretches across the high ground between Exeter and the East Devon coast, a rolling expanse of heath, woodland and ancient tracks. Loved by walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and naturalists, it’s a place of huge skies, seasonal colour and far-reaching views over the Exe Estuary and sea.

Part of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or as it is now known, the East Devon National Landscape it is one of Britain’s most important lowland heaths, shaped by thousands of years of grazing and human activity. Whether you visit for a short stroll, a long circular walk or a quiet moment watching the light move across the hills, Woodbury Common captures the essence of inland East Devon.

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Woodbury Common Map

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Geography and Access

Woodbury Common lies a few miles inland from Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, forming a high ridge of heath between the coast and the River Exe. At its northern edge, the land drops towards Exeter, while to the east it merges with the rolling farmland around Colaton Raleigh and Newton Poppleford.

The main access roads are the B3180 from the A3052 and the B3179 from Clyst St Mary. It is also easily accessible from both Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton. Several car parks are dotted across the common, including Four Firs, Uphams, Bicton, Yettington, and Woodbury Castle. Each offers different starting points for walks and panoramic viewpoints.

Public transport links are reasonable. Stagecoach bus 57 runs frequently between Exeter and Exmouth via Topsham and Lympstone, useful for western approaches. The 56 links Exeter with Exmouth via Exeter Airport and Clyst St George, with stops for Woodbury and Woodbury Salterton. Along the southern edge, the 157 serves Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton, East Budleigh and Otterton, with paths up onto the heath. On the northern side, the 9 and 9A run between Exeter, Newton Poppleford and Sidmouth or Honiton along the A3052, giving access to walks from Newton Poppleford and Colaton Raleigh. Routes and numbers can change, so check current timetables before you travel.

Cyclists are spoilt for choice, but often approach via quiet lanes from the Exe Estuary Trail, which links to Lympstone, Exton and Topsham.

Those arriving on foot can also connect to long-distance routes such as the East Devon Way, which crosses the common between Exmouth and Woodbury Castle as it winds its way across Devon to Lyme Regis in Dorset.

You can link to our in-depth guides on Exeter, Topsham, Exmouth & Budleigh Salterton and other East Devon towns and villages here or at the top of the page.

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Landscape and Character

Woodbury rises to around 570ft (175 metres), giving wide views west to Haldon Hills beyond the Exe and the sea at Exmouth. Towards the east, there are views of the East Devon coastline between Budleigh Salterton and Sidmouth. On clear days, you can see as far as Dartmoor.

Patches of birch and oak woodland line the combes and stream valleys, while open heather moorland dominates the higher ground. Military training areas occupy parts of the common, but access is generally open and well marked, adding to the sense of wildness without spoiling it.

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History and Archaeology

Human activity on Woodbury Common goes back more than 4,000 years. Bronze Age people built burial mounds and trackways across the ridge, many still visible as low grassy humps. The best known of these is Woodbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort that crowns the central ridge.

Perched at about 175 metres above sea level on the ridge of Woodbury Common, Woodbury Castle is a striking Iron-Age hillfort whose wide earthwork ramparts enclose roughly two hectares of ground. Built in the early to mid-first millennium BC, this defensive and status site was part of a broader tribal network, overlooking the Exe estuary and watching the ancient routes between the coast and the inland. The modern B3180 road actually cuts through its original northern and southern entrances, a reminder of how the landscape has evolved over millennia.

The Battle of Woodbury Common took place in August 1549 during the Prayer Book Rebellion, when people in Devon and Cornwall rose against the introduction of the English-language Book of Common Prayer. After fierce fighting around Exeter, a government force of German and Italian mercenaries marched from Honiton towards the city. On 3 August 1549, they clashed with a large rebel force on the open heath of Woodbury Common. The battle was hard-fought, with gunfire echoing across the heathland, and many were killed on both sides before the royal army pushed the rebels back towards Clyst St Mary. It was one of several bloody engagements that summer, marking a turning point in the rebellion and leaving Woodbury’s quiet ridges with a grim place in Devon’s Tudor history.

During the Napoleonic Wars (1793–1815), Woodbury Common played a modest but strategic role in Devon’s military preparations. It’s open heathland, and its elevation made it an ideal training ground for local militia and volunteer regiments raised to defend the south coast against a possible French invasion. The East Devon Volunteers and the Exmouth and Woodbury Companies are recorded as drilling regularly on the common, where the sandy, open terrain resembled the moorland and coastal ground they might have faced in battle. Troops practised manoeuvres, musket fire, and signalling, and temporary encampments were established during major exercises.

The commons’ proximity to the coast and to Exeter, a key garrison and supply centre, added to its value. Local histories record that the Devon Militia and Royal North Devon Yeomanry also used the site periodically through the early 1800s, and the tradition of military use continued into the Victorian era and beyond. Though few visible remains survive today, the association helped establish Woodbury as a long-term military training area. This role has continued to the present with the Royal Marines at nearby Lympstone.

Between the Napoleonic period and the present day, Woodbury Common has continued to evolve through cycles of military use, rural change, and conservation. During the nineteenth century, the open heath remained a valued exercise ground for volunteer regiments and for artillery practice, while local farmers continued to graze cattle, sheep and ponies to maintain the land’s characteristic open appearance. The Ordnance Survey maps of the 1830s and 1880s mark both “Rifle Ranges” and “Drill Grounds,” confirming the continuation of armed training well into the Victorian era.

By the early twentieth century, the commons’ remoteness and varied terrain again proved useful for the armed forces. During the Second World War, parts of the common were requisitioned by the War Office for troop training and mock assault exercises, especially in the run-up to D-Day. Surviving fragments of concrete, rusted iron and track ruts recall those years when thousands of soldiers prepared for overseas campaigns. After 1945, training continued under the Royal Marines based at Lympstone.

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Wildlife and Nature

In the post-war decades, growing recognition of Woodbury Common’s ecological value changed how the area was managed. Clinton Devon Estates, which owns much of the land, has worked with Natural England, the RSPB and the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust to balance public access, wildlife protection and ongoing military training. The heathlands were designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1986 and are now part of the East Devon National Landscape, and the Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve.

This is one of Britain’s most important tracts of lowland heath. Heather and gorse support dartford warblers, nightjars, stonechats and woodlarks, while adders, slow worms and common lizards warm themselves on sandy paths. Dragonflies and damselflies hunt over ponds and wet hollows. Autumn turns the heather bronze and brings redwings and fieldfares; winter strips the birch and reveals long views; spring returns colourful, scented gorse and fresh greens across the commons.

To help protect ground-nesting birds, keep dogs on leads from March to August and stick to the waymarked paths year-round.

Walking on Woodbury Common

The common is a walker’s paradise. Waymarked trails, permissive tracks and bridleways spread in every direction, from short family loops to long circular routes linking nearby villages.

Short Walks

For an easy introduction, start at Four Firs car park (where the B3179 joins the B3180) and follow the circular loop around Woodbury Castle. This one-mile route gives open views of both the River Exe and the Jurassic Coast and gives a good sense of the common’s scale. It is without doubt our favourite spot.

Medium Walks

A popular 4-mile route links Woodbury Castle to Colaton Raleigh Common, following sandy paths through heather and gorse. Another favourite is the Bicton–Yettington–Uphams circuit, which combines open heath with views over the Otter Valley.

Longer Routes

For a full day out, the East Devon Way passes across the heart of the common. Start from Exmouth, follow the lanes through Lympstone, and continue over the heath towards Newton Poppleford. With careful planning, return by public transport.

For detailed directions, see this guide to the East Devon Way or our Exmouth Travel Guide.

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Cycling and Horse-Riding

The network of gravel tracks also makes Woodbury Common a good destination for mountain biking and horse-riding. Cyclists often start from Exmouth or Budleigh Salterton, using quiet lanes to reach the common.

Most main routes are bridleways rather than footpaths, meaning cyclists and riders can use them freely. Surfaces vary from compact gravel to sandy heath, ideal for hybrid or mountain bikes but less suited to road tyres.

Horse riders use the marked routes from Bicton Arena and Yettington, with wide views and plenty of space. As always, take care around walkers, dogs and livestock.

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Seasons and Best Times to Visit Woodbury Common

Woodbury Common changes mood with the seasons, and every visit feels slightly different.

Spring: Fresh green growth, skylarks overhead and gorse in bright bloom. Perfect walking weather and clear air for distant views.

Summer: Heather and bell heather cover the slopes in purple, dragonflies hover over ponds, and Dartford warblers sing from the gorse. Warm but breezy, bring water and sunscreen.

Autumn: Deep colour as bracken turns copper and birch leaves glow gold. Great for photography and longer walks.

Winter: The landscape feels wilder and more open. Frost, mist and low light create superb conditions for sunrise or sunset walks.

Whenever you go, pack layers, parts of the common are quite exposed and can turn windy or chilly even on fine days.

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Nearby Villages and Attractions

Woodbury Village

At the southern foot of the common, Woodbury is a peaceful, traditional Devon village with thatched cottages, old inns and a welcoming square. The two main pubs are the White Hart on the square and the Maltsters Arms on Broadway. Both serve food and real ale, and both are popular with walkers and cyclists. St Swithun’s church, with its tall west tower, reflects the parish’s long link with the Clinton estate and is worth a quiet look before you head back up to the open ground.

Lympstone

Beside the Exe Estuary, Lympstone is a picture-book village of narrow lanes and waterside cottages. Its small harbour and tidal views make it one of the most charming spots on the estuary. For refreshment, pubs include the Swan Inn on The Strand and the Globe Inn (currently closed) in the village centre, with Redwing Bar & Dining a short walk up Church Road. On the edge of the parish by the A376 you will also find the Saddlers Arms (we recommend the carvery). There are small cafés and a village shop for coffee and cakes, with occasional quayside kiosks in season. The Exe Estuary Trail passes through the village, offering traffic free walking and cycling to both Exmouth and Topsham. Lympstone is also home to the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre, whose connection with nearby Woodbury Common underlines the area’s continuing military links.

Colaton Raleigh

Nestled between the lower slopes of Woodbury Common and the River Otter, Colaton Raleigh is a quiet, leafy village surrounded by farmland and heath. It is an excellent base for walking, with paths leading straight onto the common or down to Otterton and Budleigh Salterton. The Otter Inn sits by the main road and is a favourite with walkers and cyclists for pub lunches and a pint. The village shop stocks local produce and takeaway coffee. For a longer stop, Otterton Mill’s café is a pleasant riverside for a walk downstream, and there are plenty of seafront cafés in Budleigh if you continue to the coast.

East Budleigh

A few miles south, East Budleigh is one of Devon’s most picturesque villages and the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh. Its cob-and-thatch cottages, quiet lanes, and friendly pub give it a timeless feel. The village hub is the community-owned Sir Walter Raleigh on Church Street, serving food and local ales most days. There is also a volunteer-run community shop beside the village hall for coffee, cakes and local produce. Footpaths link East Budleigh to the River Otter, the South West Coast Path and the lower edges of the heath. The steady climb from the village to the southern rim of Woodbury Common rewards you with wide coastal views.

Budleigh Salterton

Below the heath lies Budleigh Salterton, where the River Otter meets the sea. Its long pebble beach, calm water and promenade make it ideal for swimming, walking or simply relaxing. At the eastern end, the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve attracts herons, egrets and winter waders, while inland paths link towards East Budleigh and Colaton Raleigh. For practical tips, places to eat and things to do, see our Budleigh Salterton Guide.

Exmouth

To the west, Exmouth is the natural gateway to Woodbury Common and the start of the Jurassic Coast. The town combines a two-mile sandy beach, marina, shops and cafés with excellent transport links. Regular trains and buses from Exeter stop here, and local services run on to Woodbury, Lympstone and Budleigh. It’s a good base for exploring the heath without a car. You can read more about it in our Exmouth Travel Guide.

Topsham

A short distance northwest of Woodbury Common, Topsham sits on the banks of the River Exe, midway between Exeter and the estuary mouth. Once a busy port, it’s now a stylish small town known for its historic Dutch-style houses, independent shops and waterside pubs. The narrow streets lead to the quay, where you can watch sailing boats and birdlife over the mudflats. Cafés, antiques shops and the Topsham Museum make it easy to spend a few relaxed hours, and the Exe Estuary Trail connects directly to Lympstone, Exmouth and Exeter for car-free cycling or walking. For a full overview, see our Topsham Travel Guide.

Bicton Park Gardens

Set between Budleigh Salterton and the lower edge of the common, Bicton Park Gardens is a landscaped Georgian estate filled with exotic trees, glasshouses and formal terraces. Its miniature railway and small museum make it a popular family attraction, and the woodland paths at its edges lead directly towards the heathland ridges above.

Otterton and the Otter Estuary

To the southeast, the River Otter nature reserve is one of Devon’s best spots for birdwatching and beaver sightings. From the common, you can drop down through Colaton Raleigh and Otterton, following tracks towards the estuary.

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Where to Stay – Bases Around Woodbury Common

There’s a good choice of places to stay around Woodbury Common and nearby East Budleigh. For hotel comfort, the Woodbury Park Hotel & Spa offers countryside views, a golf course and leisure facilities just minutes from the heath. Families and campers can opt for Castle Brake Holiday Park or Webbers Park. In East Budleigh, the community owned Sir Walter Raleigh offers rooms, there are also character cottage rentals offering village charm and easy access to the coast and countryside.

If you prefer to stay by the sea, Budleigh Salterton and Exmouth offer guesthouses, hotels and holiday parks within a ten-minute drive of the heath. Lympstone has charming B&Bs overlooking the estuary, and Topsham combines boutique hotels with good train links for car-free visitors.

Practical Information

• Parking: Free car parks at Four Firs, Woodbury Castle, Uphams, Bicton and Colaton Raleigh. Surfaces are gravel or compacted earth; avoid blocking gates.
• Facilities: None on the common. Nearest toilets and cafés are in Woodbury, Budleigh or Exmouth.
• Safety: Keep to marked paths, watch for red flags in military zones, and bring a map or GPS.
• Accessibility: Some routes have gentle gradients suitable for all-terrain wheelchairs. The Four Firs area offers the easiest access.
• Dogs: Welcome year-round, but leads are essential during nesting season (March–August).
• Fires and BBQs: Not permitted — the heath is highly flammable.

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Photography and Scenic Spots

Photographers love Woodbury Common for its dramatic skies and textures. Early morning brings mist drifting through the valleys, while sunset lights the red soil and golden grasses.

Best viewpoints include:

• Woodbury Castle: Panoramic views towards the coast.
• Four Firs/Estuary View: Expansive western outlooks, excellent for sunsets.
• Bicton Ridge: Long views across the Otter Valley to the sea.

Wildlife photographers often wait quietly near ponds for dragonflies or set up near gorse for Dartford warblers and stonechats.

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Conservation and Respect

Woodbury Common is a rare survivor of what once covered much of southern England — lowland heath grazed by ponies, cattle and deer. Conservation relies on careful management: controlled burning, grazing and scrub clearance keep the heather open and healthy.

Visitors play a big role too. Staying on paths protects fragile soils and nesting birds. Avoid lighting fires or dropping litter, and give space to livestock and wildlife. Every small action helps preserve this extraordinary landscape for future generations.

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Other Helpful Links

• Booking.com – for most accommodation needs. Look out for options that include free cancellation.
• Easy Tide – Free UK tidal prediction service, providing tidal data and tide times for the current day and 6 days into the future.
• Expedia – good for flights and packages.
• Get Your Guide – find and book things to see. Includes unusual things to do.
• Hostelworld – Hostel-focused booking platform that fosters backpack connections.
• MetOffice – Weather forecasts from the UK official meteorological office.
• National Express – UK-based coach operator providing long-distance bus services
• Omio – Book travel tickets by comparing trains, buses and planes in one search.
• Rental Cars – to search out and book hire cars.
• Rome2Rio – Great for comparing local transport options (and for locating bus stops).
• Ticketmaster – What’s On – Major Events – Venues – Bookings
• Trainline.com – our go-to online platform for booking train and bus tickets, offering route planning, price comparisons, seat reservations, and ticket sales.
• Traffic England – for live traffic updates on major roads.
• Traveline SW – Comprehensive public transport information from A to B by bus, coach, train, ferry in South West England and Great Britain.
• TripAdvisor – for reviews of… pretty much everything. Our go-to before booking anything.
• Vrbo – Great for self-catering and vacation holiday home rentals.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Visiting Woodbury Common

How big is Woodbury Common?

Together with adjacent heaths it covers about 1,400 hectares, roughly 3,500 acres, of open access land.

Is it free to visit?

Yes. There is no charge for parking or entry.

Can I cycle on the common?

Yes, on bridleways and permissive tracks. Avoid footpaths and be courteous to walkers.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes. Leads are required during the bird nesting season from March to August.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes. The wide tracks and open terrain suit family walks and picnics.

Are there toilets or cafés?

No facilities on the heath itself. Nearby options are in Woodbury, Budleigh Salterton and Exmouth.

Can I see wildlife easily?

Yes. Look for Dartford warblers, stonechats, adders and dragonflies in summer. Winter brings flocks of finches and thrushes.

Is the area safe during military training?

Yes. When red flags are flying avoid those sections. Otherwise access is open.

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Final Thoughts

Woodbury Common is one of East Devon’s most distinctive landscapes, a meeting of wild heath, ancient history and far horizons. It’s a place for simple pleasures: walking under a vast sky, hearing the wind in the gorse, watching the light change over the Exe Estuary.

Few spots in East Devon combine such openness with easy access from the coast and city. Whether you come for an hour or a full day, it rewards slow walks and quiet attention.

Over to you … have you recently travelled to South West England? What worked for you? What advice would you give to others? Please leave your comments below or join in the discussion in our Facebook Group.