Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Hiking
5.0
(36)
The Hobby Drive is a historic, three-mile scenic carriage drive winding along the dramatic North Devon coastline in the United Kingdom. Connecting the picturesque village of Clovelly with Buck's Mills, this traffic-free path forms an integral part of the renowned South West Coast Path, offering a unique blend of ancient woodlands and breathtaking sea views across Bideford Bay.
Visitors consistently praise The Hobby Drive for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. The path offers spellbinding glimpses of the coast through…
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Tips
June 12, 2019
Hiking
July 6, 2020
Hiking
May 11, 2021
Hiking
Routes here
Best routes to The Hobby Drive
5.0
(12)
136
hikers
13.5km
04:00
390m
390m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
81
hikers
23.3km
07:03
760m
760m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(10)
107
hikers
10.8km
03:07
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 3.55 km
Uphill 130 m
Downhill 200 m
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Tuesday 3 March
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7°C
15 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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The most convenient parking is generally available at the main visitor car park in Clovelly. From there, you can access The Hobby Drive on the east side of the village. Be aware that parking in Clovelly often incurs a fee, which contributes to the upkeep of the historic village.
Public transport options to Clovelly, the primary access point for The Hobby Drive, are available via local bus services. It's advisable to check current timetables for routes connecting to Clovelly from larger towns in North Devon, such as Bideford or Barnstaple, to plan your journey effectively.
No, there are no specific permits or entry fees required to walk The Hobby Drive itself. It is a public footpath and forms part of the South West Coast Path. However, if you park in Clovelly, there will likely be a charge for the car park, which also typically includes access to the village.
The Hobby Drive is generally considered suitable for families. Its traffic-free nature makes it safe for children. While the terrain is relatively easy, it does feature gentle ascents and descents. For pushchairs, it's best suited for sturdy, all-terrain models due to some uneven surfaces, but it's not typically a challenging route.
The Hobby Drive is dog-friendly, making it a great option for walks with your canine companion. To ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors and to protect the local wildlife, dogs should be kept on a lead, especially near livestock or in areas with ground-nesting birds. Always remember to clean up after your dog.
Beyond the general coastal views, keep an eye out for the unique ecological features, including over 250 varieties of internationally important lichen species that thrive in the ancient woodlands. You'll also encounter several coastal waterfalls along this stretch, and occasional clearings offer stunning panoramic views of Clovelly and across Bideford Bay towards Barnstaple.
The Hobby Drive is approximately three miles (around 4.8 kilometers) in length. It is generally considered an easy to moderate walk. While it does involve some gentle rises and falls as it dips into valleys and climbs above the sea, the path is well-maintained and traffic-free, making it accessible for various fitness levels and beginners.
Yes, the nearby historic village of Clovelly offers several amenities. You'll find charming cafes and pubs within the village where you can enjoy refreshments and meals. For those looking to extend their stay, there are also accommodation options available in Clovelly, ranging from guesthouses to hotels.
While beautiful year-round, The Hobby Drive offers distinct experiences depending on the season. Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers, while autumn transforms the ancient woodlands with vibrant colours, making it particularly picturesque. Summer is popular for warmer weather and longer days, but can be busier. Winter offers a more tranquil, rugged coastal experience, though paths can be muddy.
Absolutely! The Hobby Drive was built between 1811 and 1829 by Sir James Hamlyn Williams, providing employment after the Napoleonic Wars and reflecting the Romantic movement's appreciation for nature. Historically, caves below the drive were reputedly used for smuggling. There's also a local legend about a cannibalistic family, the Greggs, who supposedly lived below the drive around 250 years ago.