Stay fit and healthy in 2025 with a trip to East Devon!

Map of Colyton and Seaton: OS Maps

January 1 is the traditional time many of us make our New Year’s resolutions to be fitter, better and stronger in the year ahead. Sadly, within a few weeks our steadfast resolve has either weakened, broken or been postponed for another year!

However, book a stay at The Old Bakehouse and you can find plenty of opportunities to stick to at least some of these pledges in 2025. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and perched on the stunning Jurassic Coast, this part of East Devon offers some of the UK’s loveliest walks, most dramatic shorelines for swimming and cycle routes to challenge beginners as well as the most experienced hill riders. Here’s some of our top tips!

Walking: Discover the Charm of the Coly Valley and Beyond

For walkers, Colyton is surrounded by a network of scenic trails, each offering a unique perspective of the Devon countryside. A particularly rewarding route is the Coly Valley Circular Walk, which takes you through lush valleys, peaceful woodlands, and along the banks of the River Coly.

This 7-mile loop begins in Colyton itself and follows the river as it winds through the picturesque village of Colyford before heading into the countryside. The path offers stunning views of the rolling hills of the East Devon AONB, and the flora and fauna are a treat for nature lovers. The tranquillity of the route makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to soak in the surrounding beauty at a relaxed pace.

A riverside walk along The Coly

Cycling: A Ride Along the Jurassic Coast

For cycling enthusiasts, Colyton is ideally located with easy access to several fantastic routes. Riding from Seaton to Lyme Regis is a popular way to explore the Jurassic Coast by bike. Experienced riders may prefer the direct and busier A and B-roads, but there are other options for quieter rides.

Off-roaders or those with hybrid bikes can tackle a six-mile backroad stretch - along Steppes Lane leading out from Axmouth to Pinhay Farm, then joining the A3052 briefly to Ware before the descent into Lyme Regis.

It’s a challenging ride, taking you through peaceful countryside with some steep ascents and descents, but the views are spectacular with the chance to see striking rock formations that make this part of the world so famous. The route is great for experienced cyclists and offers a unique chance to experience the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jurassic Coast from a different perspective.

Enjoy a great coastal bike ride

Swimming: Dive into Crystal Clear Waters

Swimming enthusiasts will find plenty to explore along the Jurassic Coast, and one of the best spots near Colyton is Branscombe Beach. Just a short drive away, this quiet, shingle beach is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful place to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

Branscombe is known for its natural beauty and is far less crowded than some of the other beaches along the Jurassic Coast. The water here is generally calm, making it ideal for a relaxing swim, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs. Many visitors also take advantage of the opportunity to try out some paddle boarding.

So, pack your walking boots, bike helmet, and swimming gear, and make The Old Bakehouse your base for a perfect Devon getaway. With the beauty of the East Devon AONB and the Jurassic Coast just waiting to be explored, your adventure is only just beginning!

Paddle boarders on the calm waters at Branscombe Beach