What to Wear for a January Walk in Devon
Easy, comfortable outfit ideas from The Coastal Boutique for women over 40
January in Devon has its own kind of magic. The air feels fresher, the coast is quieter, and there’s a sense of space you don’t always get in the warmer months. It’s one of my favourite times to get out for a walk, especially along the coast, wrapped up warm with the promise of a good coffee or pub lunch at the end.
If you’ve ever stood at your wardrobe wondering what on earth do I wear for a winter walk, you’re not alone. You want to be warm, practical and comfortable, but still feel like yourself. Not head-to-toe hiking gear. Not something that feels stiff or unflattering. Just clothes that work hard, feel good, and still look right when you stop for lunch.
This guide is written exactly as I’d explain it to a customer in the shop. Simple, real-life advice on what to wear for a January coastal walk in Devon, using pieces we stock at The Coastal Boutique and brands we genuinely love.
A favourite January Devon coastal walk
One of the best winter walks is the Branscombe to Beer coastal path. It’s classic Devon. Big skies, chalk cliffs, sea views and just enough ups and downs to feel like you’ve earned your lunch.
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About 5 to 6 miles return
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Proper coastal paths with some hills and steps
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Dog friendly
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Great cafés and pubs at both ends
It can be windy in places, muddy after rain and surprisingly mild once you get moving, which is why what you wear really matters.
The golden rule for January walks: layers
The key to winter walking is layers you can adjust. You’ll start off cold, warm up quickly, then cool down again when you stop.
Think in three layers:
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A comfortable base layer
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A warm knit
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A weather-proof coat
If you get those right, everything else is easy.
Base layers that feel good all day
Your base layer is what sits closest to your skin, so it needs to be soft, breathable and comfortable. This isn’t the place for anything tight or scratchy.
I always suggest:
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Long sleeve cotton or jersey tops
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Nothing too thick
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A length that stays tucked in
Alice Collins tops are brilliant for this. They’re flattering without clinging and easy to move in, which makes them ideal for walking. They also work just as well if you take your coat off in a café and don’t want to feel underdressed.
This is the layer that quietly does the hard work.
Knitwear that keeps you warm without feeling bulky
A good jumper or cardigan is essential in January. You want warmth, but you also want to move easily.
Look for:
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Soft knits rather than heavy, rigid ones
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A relaxed fit you can layer underneath
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Enough length to feel comfortable around the hips
Our women’s knitwear collection is designed with exactly this in mind. Easy, wearable pieces that you’ll reach for again and again.
👉 Browse knitwear at The Coastal Boutique
https://thecoastalboutique.com/collections/knitwear
Alice Collins knitwear is especially good for winter walks. Their jumpers are warm without being bulky and sit nicely under a coat. A longer-line cardigan is also a great option if you like a bit more coverage.
The coat that makes all the difference: the Lighthouse jacket
If there’s one piece that really earns its place on a January walk, it’s your coat.
Our Lighthouse jackets are perfect for Devon weather. They’re:
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Waterproof and windproof
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Warm without being heavy
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Easy to walk in
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Practical but still stylish
They’re ideal for coastal walks where the weather can change quickly. A Lighthouse jacket keeps the wind out, the rain off, and still looks great when you head into town afterwards.
A hood is always a bonus on the coast, even if you don’t think you’ll need it.
This is the coat customers come back for once they’ve worn it outside.
What trousers work best for winter walking?
You don’t need specialist walking trousers unless you want them. Many women prefer something softer and more familiar.
The best options are:
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Stretch trousers with movement
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Comfortable waistbands
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Dark colours that hide mud
Alice Collins trousers are a firm favourite. They’re comfortable, flattering and easy to wear, whether you’re walking, driving or sitting down for lunch.
If it’s particularly cold, you can always layer thin leggings or thermals underneath.
Footwear that can handle the Devon coast
Footwear matters more than anything else. The path can be uneven, muddy and slippery in places, especially after rain.
You want:
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Good grip
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Cushioning
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Warmth
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Comfort for a few hours of walking
We stock Lunar Boots and Blowfish footwear, both of which work brilliantly for winter walks.
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Lunar Boots are great if you want something sturdy and supportive, often waterproof and lined for warmth.
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Blowfish boots and shoes are lighter, very comfortable and ideal for shorter coastal walks and everyday wear.
Both brands give you comfort without looking like hiking boots.
👉 View our footwear collection
https://thecoastalboutique.com/collections/footwear
Always wear good socks too. Cold feet can ruin a walk.
Socks, scarves and small details that matter
The little things make a big difference in winter.
Bamboo socks from Miss Sparrow
Miss Sparrow breathable bamboo socks are ideal for walking. They keep your feet warm without overheating and are beautifully soft. Once you’ve worn bamboo socks, it’s hard to go back.
Scarves, hats and gloves
A warm scarf stops the wind getting down your neck and instantly makes you feel warmer. Gloves and a hat are always worth bringing, even if you don’t wear them the whole time.
👉 Shop accessories at The Coastal Boutique
https://thecoastalboutique.com/collections/accessories
Where to eat after your walk
One of the joys of a winter walk is warming up afterwards.
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Beer village has cafés and pubs, many dog friendly
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Branscombe is home to a brilliant traditional pub
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Most places welcome muddy boots in winter
Always worth checking opening times in January, but you’re rarely stuck for somewhere cosy along this route.
Are dogs allowed on coastal walks in Devon?
Yes, and winter is one of the best times to walk with dogs. The Branscombe to Beer route is dog friendly, just keep dogs on leads near cliffs and livestock.
Many cafés and pubs in the area are happy for dogs to join you too.
A simple January walk outfit formula
If you want to keep it easy, this combination works every time:
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Alice Collins long sleeve top
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Soft knit jumper or cardigan
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Stretch trousers
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Lighthouse waterproof jacket
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Lunar Boots or Blowfish footwear
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Miss Sparrow bamboo socks
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Scarf, gloves and hat
Comfortable, warm, practical and still very wearable.
Final thoughts
A January walk in Devon is about enjoying the outdoors without battling your clothes. When you’re dressed well, the walk feels easier, the cold feels manageable, and you can relax into the day.
At The Coastal Boutique, we choose clothing for real life. Pieces that work for walking the coast, popping into town, meeting friends for lunch and everything in between.
If you’re planning a winter walk, have a look online or pop into the shop and we’ll help you put together something that feels right for you.
Fresh air, good layers and a warm cup of tea at the end. That’s January done properly.
