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Morte Point walk: seals and smugglers
This route takes you out onto Morte Point, with impressive views towards Woolacombe beach and Baggy Point, where you may also see Atlantic grey seals who play close to the shore. The walk is dedicated to National Trust co-founder Octavia Hill. Morte Point was an early gift to the National Trust from Rosalie Chichester (who resided at Arlington Court) and now, close to 120 years later, it is timely to reflect on the foresight of those individuals who helped to shape the coast and countryside we enjoy today.
'Stegosaurus' rocks
Be careful on these rocks, as they can be sharp and slippy.
Total steps: 4
Total steps: 4
Start point
Mortehoe village car park, grid ref SS458453
Step 1
From Mortehoe village car park turn left past the village shop. Take the lane on the right between the church and The Ship Aground pub, signposted 'Coast Path'. Continue onto the National Trust path to Morte Point, keeping to the right of the cemetery and entering through the official gates onto Morte Point itself.
Step 2
Continue straight on, taking the left-hand broad grass track downhill. Turn left after 440yd (400m) to join a footpath which links to the coast path. The path will now take you around Morte Point.
Step 3
When you reach the fingerpost, follow the direction which says 'Mortehoe ½ mile.'
Step 4
Continue up a gentle slope, keeping the old derelict wall on the left until you reach the point where you entered Morte Point and retrace your steps back to the car park.
End point
Mortehoe village car park, grid ref SS458453
Trail map
![Map of Morte Point seals and smugglers walk, Devon](http://nt.global.ssl.fastly.net/binaries/content/gallery/website/national/regions/devon/places/woolacombe/library/morte-point-seals-smugglers-map-trail.jpg?auto=webp&width=767&dpr=2 2x)
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Walk the Ilfracombe Torrs
Ascend the Torrs at Ilfracombe on this exhilarating walking trail, where you'll follow a path carved into the cliff face by the Victorians.
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Woolacombe beach walk
This gentle circular wander takes you through the sand dunes and along the beach at Woolacombe, plus a stretch of the South West Coast Path.
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A short circular walk at Woolacombe via Combesgate
Explore the seafront and natural valley at Woolacombe on this easy 3-mile circular walk that is also suitable for access Trampers. Escape the crowds and enjoy shady woodland and panoramic views across the bay for a very different experience of Woolacombe that the whole family will enjoy.
![Visitor on the rocks at Morte Point, North Devon](http://nt.global.ssl.fastly.net/binaries/content/gallery/website/national/regions/devon/places/woolacombe/library/woolacombe-891595-walkers-morte-point-header-image-1.jpg?auto=webp&width=505&crop=16:9&dpr=2 2x)
Octavia Hill walk at Morte Point
Enjoy the dramatic geology and sweeping coastal views of Morte Point on this short walk commemorating National Trust founder Octavia Hill.
Get in touch
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We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
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