Wembury Devon
Walking Wembury to Bovisand Walk
We walked from Wembury to Bovisand in Devon today, along the stunning South West Coastal Path. Parking is at the National Trust car park in Wembury, free to members and about £6.00 for non-members for the day. There is a lovely café and clean toilets run by the National Trust. Wembury offers walks that cater to all abilities, with clifftop climbs and breathtaking sea views. We saw Dartmoor ponies grazing peacefully on the cliffs along the path at Wembury. These pure-bred ponies are now an endangered species, adding charm and heritage to the landscape.
Walking along the path to Bovisand takes you past the old HMS Cambridge. HMS Cambridge was a Royal Navy shore establishment south of Plymouth, UK, commissioned between 1956 and 2001. Formerly named HM Gunnery School, Devonport, it was later renamed Cambridge Gunnery School at Wembury. The site now stands as a reminder of the area’s strong naval history and scenic coastal beauty.
To your left and out to sea, we had a view of The Great Mewstone, which is about half a mile out from Wembury Point. The Island is owned by the National Trust and is a conservation area, hosting many types of wildlife. It is closed to public access. The walk is easy; follow the signposts along the southwest coastal path. You can turn back at any point along the walk. Bovisand has a few cafes, one named Bovisands Café, which is on the road to the beach. The Second is on the top road, Cliffedge café.
The map of the walk from Wembury to Bovisand
Distance 7.5 miles Time spent moving 2:52 hours Ascent 151 feet Descent 125 feet Avg. speed (throughout the time spent moving) 2.6 mph
The Beach at Wembury
If you find yourself at Wembury Beach just before low tide, you’re in for a fascinating marine adventure. Spending a few hours exploring the pools and rocks reveals a vibrant world teeming with life and colour. In these hidden corners of Wembury, you’ll encounter a diverse array of creatures, from sturdy limpets and delicate anemones to agile shore crabs, elusive pipefish, and intriguing sea scorpions. Among the treasures waiting to be discovered are spiny starfish, Cornish sucker fish, and the delectable edible crabs — perfect for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.
Premier rock pooling destinations
Wembury stands out as one of the premier rock pooling destinations in the UK, attracting families, nature lovers, and photographers alike. As you arrive, the Wembury Marine Centre in the car park beckons, offering a gateway to understanding this unique coastal ecosystem. This friendly centre, managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust, serves as an invaluable resource, providing interactive displays that captivate the imagination and tanks showcasing the local marine life up close.
However, the real magic lies in the hands-on experiences offered here. Embark on a Rockpool Safari, a guided expedition led by knowledgeable experts who unravel the mysteries of the intertidal zone. Imagine the thrill of observing these marine marvels in their natural habitat, guided by passionate experts who share their love for the ocean and its delicate balance.
Moreover, the centre hosts a range of marine-themed events throughout the year, from educational talks to family-friendly beach activities. Each event aims to enhance your understanding of Wembury’s rich biodiversity and its surrounding environment. Whether you’re a curious novice or a seasoned enthusiast, these experiences offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature in new and exciting ways.
If you’re captivated by the wonders of the sea, Wembury and its Marine Centre offer more than just a glimpse – they immerse you in the enchanting world beneath the waves. It’s a journey that transforms a casual beach day into a thrilling exploration of marine life, leaving you with lasting memories of the natural beauty found along the shores of Wembury.
