Croyde - Saunton Down - Middleborough Hill Winter Solstice Sunrise Walk 

Saturday 21st December 2024 7.30am Croyde - Saunton Down - Middleborough Hill Winter Solstice Sunrise Walk

Welcome the start of the shortest day and the first day of winter, watching the sunrise from the top of Saunton Down, enjoying beautiful (weather permitting!) high level views of the surrounding countryside, river estuary and coast. Starting at Croyde and walking through the village, taking footpaths and bridleways to climb to the top of Saunton Down to watch the sun rise. Then descending to Saunton Court before taking Hannaburrow Lane to climb back over the Down, taking footpaths and countryside lanes to reach Putsborough. Then following the coast path along Napps Cliff and footpaths to Middlesborough Hill before returning to the car park. A shorter version of the walk taking the first ‘loop’ is possible. Option to stay for drinks/ brunch at Café Croyde Bay at the end of the walk.

Please bring a head/ handheld torch.

If you would like to bring a flask of hot drink to keep warm while we wait for the sun to rise, please do.

Please click this link for a map of the full route Croyde - Saunton Down - Middleborough Hill

Please click this link for a map of the shorter loop Croyde - Saunton Down (shorter loop)

Meet by Billy Budds at 7.30am.
Start/ Finish: Billy Budds EX33 1LZ
Distance: Full route - 7 miles (11.39km). Shorter loop – 3.1 miles (5km)
Route type: Circular
Grade: Challenging
Terrain: Coast path, footpaths, and country lanes. Footpaths rocky in places. Some slippery and muddy stretches in wet weather. Steep climb/ ascent/ descent over Saunton Down. Poor visibility due to darkness at start of the walk. Several stiles.
Toilets: Next to Croyde car park.
Parking: Croyde car park EX33 1LX (All day £2.50)

Please wear weather/ ground conditions appropriate clothing/ footwear and bring a snacks/ drinks.

Anyone attending this informal walk does so as a solo identity and has full responsibility for their own wellbeing, which includes health wellbeing and personal welfare.