The King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) is a new National Trail, created under new legislation, which follows the coast of England. Renamed to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III the trail has been opened in sections. Once completed, walking the England Coast Path will be a great achievement as it’s the longest coastal path in the world!
His Majesty the King inaugurated the King Charles III England Coast Path at Seven Sisters in East Sussex on 19 March 2026.
In some places, where there is already a coastal National Trail, you will see both trails waymarked. This includes the South West Coast Path, the Norfolk Coast Path and the coastal part of the England Coast Path. Here you’ll see signs for the existing trail as well as signs for the England Coast Path.
The coast of England is varied and you’ll notice changes to the landscape, wildlife and habitat as you walk the trail. Long stretches of the coastline are designated areas of natural beauty and the landscape and wildlife is protected in many areas.
Highlights include the coast of North Yorkshire and the picturesque fishing towns and villages including Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes.
The iconic White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, not only a symbol of home and war time defence but also worth visiting for stunning views, rare chalk grassland and a wealth of wildflowers, butterflies and birds.
Stretching from East Devon to Dorset, the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a coastline rich in beauty, history and fossils. ‘Must visit’ places include the spectacular limestone arch of Durdle Dor, the pretty seaside town of Lyme Regis, Golden Cap – the highest point on the south coast of England, the beautiful Kimmeridge Bay, the dramatic Portland Bill and the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve.
From the Wirral peninsula to Lancashire and Cumbria, the north west coast of England includes the city of Liverpool, large seaside resorts of Southport and Blackpool and the more rural coastline of Cumbria, 100 miles stretching from the Solway Firth to Morecambe Bay. The Heritage Coast at St Bees marks the western end of Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Walk.
Nowhere in the UK is more than 70 miles (113) from the coast and it is estimated that around 3 million people (out of 60 million) live on the coast of the UK. The place furthest from the coast is Coton in the Elms in Derbyshire, which is equidistant from Fosdyke Wash in Lincolnshire; White Sands between Neston in Cheshire and Flint, Flintshire in Wales; and Westbury-on-Severn Gloucestershire.
How long will the King Charles III England Coast Path National Trail be?
It is estimated that the trail once fully opened will be 2700 miles (4345km) long.
Is the England Coast Path open yet?
Long sections of the trail are already open. You can get further information and view the open sections on the National Trails' website.
Who can enjoy walking the England Coast Path National Trail?
Although the England Coast Path is being created for walkers, some sections will follow existing bridleways which are open to horse riders and cyclists. Please check carefully before setting off. Bridleways are marked on Ordnance Survey maps.
Is the England Coast Path accessible?
The England Coast Path has been designed to be as accessible as possible with minimal use of barriers such as stiles. Due to the nature of the coast you will find that there are steps in places and these are often long flights and could be steep. In some areas the trail will follow paved promenades or other land suitable for wheelchair users, including people using most types of mobility vehicles or people with reduced mobility. The relevant local authority should be able to provide advice on what areas are suitable for people using mobility aids.
Can I bring my dog while walking the England Coast Path?
Your dog is welcome while walking the England Coast Path. There may be stiles and you may pass through areas where sheep may be grazing or ground nesting birds breeding so please ensure you have your dog under effective control. Cows with calves are very protective and can be aggressive towards dogs. Try to avoid walking close to cows with calves, if you encounter any aggression release your dog, do not try to pick it up.
Can I buy England Coast Path books, maps or merchandise?
Browse our range of guidebooks, maps and merchandise for the England Coast Path.
Can I get a National Trail completion certificate for walking the England Coast Path?
Our personalised England Coast Path certificate is a great momento for anyone that has completed the trail.