Start Point, Devon Cape

Address: Start Point, Devon, England

Hours: Open access to the headland year-round

Start Point is a prominent headland on the south coast of Devon, England. It marks a notable coastal promontory that projects into the English Channel and is associated with maritime navigation.

The headland offers cliff-top viewpoints over the channel and opportunities to walk sections of the South West Coast Path. The point is notable for its coastal scenery and for the navigation structures sited at the tip.

The headland has long been used as a reference point for coastal navigation and has supported navigation aids placed to warn shipping. Its role reflects the maritime history of the South Devon coast.

Start Point lies on the south coast of Devon, a short distance from the village of Start and within the South West coastal landscape. It is south of the Devon market towns and accessible by local roads and coastal paths.

• Coastal walks: Clifftop walking routes and coastal paths run along the headland, offering close views of the lighthouse and sea cliffs.

What to See#

• Start Point Lighthouse: A 19th-century lighthouse sits at the tip of the headland and is a local navigation aid for vessels in the English Channel.

Nearest rail access is Totnes or Kingsbridge (seasonal); from those towns local buses and taxis provide access. Driving via the A38 and local B-roads brings visitors to nearby car parks; expect a short walk from parking to the headland.

• Walk out to the lighthouse at low tide for the full coastal sweep; the access path is steep in places.
• Photography is best on overcast days that concentrate the light; sunny days flatten the dramatic cliffs.
• Watch for seabirds on the cliffs-spring is especially active.