Discover Branscombe through its village history and coast: the short Branscombe village walk loops around the historic village and offers coastal views and opportunities to discover nature. The Branscombe to Beer coastal walk leads from the village through the countryside to Branscombe Beach. There is also a Norman church and a continuing tradition of craftsmanship. When planning, you can choose between a circular walk with views of the village and countryside and a hike with the beach as its destination.
Church and craftsmanship in Branscombe
Church of St Winifred is a Grade I listed parish church. Its square central tower, dating from the 12th century, is one of only four complete Norman towers in Devon. The church’s architectural development spans the early 12th to the early 17th century. The tower is therefore a striking individual feature within a building history that stretches across several centuries.
Branscombe Forge was built in the 18th century and is considered Devon’s oldest working thatched forge. Blacksmiths still work there using traditional methods, producing both practical and decorative items. Baking is also part of the village’s history: The Old Bakery preserves a traditional bread oven, a proving trough and historic baking utensils.
Craftsmanship and history on the coast
From the 1600s to the 1800s, Branscombe was an important source of handmade lace. Branscombe lace was made with needles and thicker yarn than Honiton lace, resulting in a stronger fabric. The tools and yarn thickness therefore shaped the character of the product. The coast is also part of the village’s history: in the 19th century, it served as a landing place for smuggling.
Village walk or coastal hike
The Branscombe village walk is a short circular route around the historic village. Along the way, there are coastal views and opportunities to discover nature. The Branscombe to Beer coastal walk, by contrast, starts in the village, leads through the countryside and ends at Branscombe Beach. You can also join this walk in Sidmouth or Seaton via the South West Coast Path. The starting point and destination therefore vary depending on the route you choose.
Branscombe Mouth is a pebble beach and part of the Jurassic Coast of East Devon and Dorset. From Branscombe Beach, you can see Jurassic cliffs on both sides of the valley. The 13,500-kilogram anchor from the MSC Napoli can also be seen on the beach; its visibility may depend on coastal conditions.
Practical information for your stay
A relatively level, accessible path suitable for wheelchairs leads from the National Trust car park to Branscombe Beach. As access conditions can change, check the current access statement before your visit. The Axe Vale Mini-travel bus 899 serves Branscombe between Sidmouth and Seaton; check the current timetable before travelling. The thatched Bakery provides a setting for traditional cream teas. If you plan to enjoy this offering, check in advance whether cream teas are currently available.
Discover more destinations: Swimbridge, Moretonhampstead, Axminster, Postbridge, Torrington, Lamerton, Clovelly, Chapelton
For the overview of the wider region: Devon.
