TRAIL & ERROR: Down Thomas & Wembury Circular

Looking for a stunning South Devon loop with sea views, a mix of trail terrain and a bit of unexpected adrenaline? Let me introduce you to the Down Thomas & Wembury Circular - a 10km trail I found on AllTrails that kicked off my Trail & Error Series with a bang!

Route Overview:

• Distance: 10km

• Elevation: 830ft

• Trail Type: 90% Trail, 10% Country Road

• Parking Location: Down Thomas - what3words: nerve.overhear.compose

• Route via: AllTrails

• GPX File

This circular trail weaves along a spectacular stretch of The South West Coastal Path, linking Wembury and Heybrook Bay with quiet inland paths and the coastal cliffs. The terrain no is varied and scenic - perfect for runners, hikers or anyone wanting to move outside with a view.

The Lowdown:

• Coastal Path Perfection - The views between Wembury and Heybrook Bay really delivered. Think clifftops, open skies and crashing waves - natures screensaver worthy scenery!

• Toilets (x2) - A rare but welcome sight, especially on longer loops like this. One set was just off the beach in Wembury and another just past Heybrook Bay before you start the ascent to Down Thomas.

• Coffee Conundrum - There is no cafe in Down Thomas (only a pub) which was a tragic discovery post-run. There is a cafe at Wembury so if I were to do this trail again (I definitely will), I’ll start in Wembury so I can finish strong with a flat white in hand.

• The Bull Situation - A “beware the bull” sign appeared just after leaving Down Thomas on entry to the second field. No bull spotted (thankfully) but the psychological impact was real. I may or may not have taken a few nervous glances behind me whilst running through the corn field like I was in some sort of horror movie.

Trail Tips (things to know before you go):

• Best in summer or dry weather: This loop has serious muddy potential after heavy rain - especially through the inland field sections. I’d recommend saving this one for late spring or summer months when the ground is dryer and the views are clearer.

• Trail shoes recommended: The mix of costal path, farmland and grassy slopes means grippy footwear is your friend - especially if you’re running.

• Go early for a quieter trail: it’s not overly busy but you’ll have the best chance of peaceful views and empty paths if you start in the morning (plus better lighting for those photos).

• Bring water (and snacks): There is no shop or refuel spot en route unless you detour into Wembury so plan ahead if you’ll be out there for a while.

• Download the route beforehand: in true trail style, signal is limited in places. I’d recommend downloading the trail map beforehand from AllTrails before you set off.

My Trail & Error Rating: 8/10

(- 1 for the bull/induced fear and -1 for the lack of coffee at the finish)

Would I do it again?

Absolutely. It’s the kind of trail that makes you feel like you’re on the edge of the world, without needing to scale a mountain. With enough elevation to feel like a workout and enough coastal scenery to keep your phone in hand for photos, it’s a trail worth repeating - especially with better caffeine logistics next time.

Who this trail is perfect for:

• Trail runners looking for a moderately challenging loop with uninterrupted views.

• Weekend walkers or hikers craving sea air and a sense of remoteness without being far from civilisation.

• Visitors to South Devon wanting to experience a lesser-known but beautiful part of the South West Coastal Path.

• Anyone who likes their trails WILD but still wants a toilet nearby.

Final Thoughts:

The Trail & Error Series is all about honest trail testing - the good, the gritty and the unexpectedly bull-related. This first loop ticked the most boxes and gave me the perfect reminder of why the UK’s coastal paths are some of the best in the world.

Down Thomas & Wembury Circular - saved, rated and definitely one I’ll run back for!

See it in action:

• Strava Route

• Instagram Reel

Follow along for more Trail & Error posts coming soon - and if you’ve done this loop, let me know what you thought (or if you actually saw the bull).