Walking the South West Coast Path is perhaps the UK’s ultimate challenge for the long distance hiker - 630 miles (1,014 km) from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset following the North Devon, Cornwall, South Devon and Dorset coastlines.
More than 70% of the South West Coast Path is in either a National Park or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You’ll also pass through two World Heritage Sites (Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape and the Dorset and East Devon Coast), a UNESCO Biosphere (North Devon) and a UNESCO Geopark (Torbay).
From high cliffs and long sandy beaches to rugged heather moorlands, rolling green fields and woodland the South West Coast Path is never dull. While walking the South West Coast Path you’ll pass through seaside towns and pretty villages enjoying spectacular landscape, history and heritage along the way.
From the bustling seaside town of Minehead, the path follows the edge of Exmoor National Park, taking in the precipitous harbour towns of Lynton, Lynmouth and Ilfracombe. Continue along the North Devon coast and enjoy the dramatic cliffs and long sandy beaches. Tintagel Castle with its myths and legends is worth a visit and some time to enjoy the gastronomic delights of Padstow.
Then walk along the coast watching the surfers at Newquay and immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of St Ives. Enjoy the views from Land’s End (England’s most westerly point) and Lizard Point (the most southerly point in Britain). From small fishing ports such as Mevagissey, Fowey, Polperro and Looe to the large Naval ports at Falmouth and Plymouth, you’ll experience the impact the coast has on the people who live here.
Stand in awe of the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast and enjoy the heritage, geology, archaeology and wildlife that you’ll experience. Whether you’ve walked the trail in short sections or all in one go, reaching the end at South Haven Point is a huge achievement!
Walking the South West Coast Path offers something for everyone – whether you’re an experienced trekker looking for a huge challenge, a relaxed rambler wanting scenic strolls, a young backpacker embarking on an adventure or a family keen to explore the great outdoors.
How long does walking the South West Coast Path take, end to end?
Walking the South West Coast Path can be completed by a fast walker in around 30 days, but a more leisurely pace with time to stop to see some of the sights just off the path is between 7 and 8 weeks. Few people have enough time to be able to walk it in one go, most split it between several holidays and complete the path over several years.
Is walking the South West Coast Path hard?
The South West Coast Path ranges from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging stretches with steep climbs and uneven terrain. Most sections require a reasonable level of fitness, and walking times are often longer than the distance suggests due to the hilly coastal landscape.
Which direction should I walk the South West Coast Path in?
Most people walk start at Minehead and walk towards Poole, but that is mainly because that is the direction guidebooks are written in; however there's no reason why you shouldn't walk it in the opposite direction.
Who can enjoy walking the South West Coast Path National Trail?
Most of the South West Coast Path is a footpath so is only open to walkers. There are a few short sections that can be cycled or ridden, however, they do not form a long distance route.
Can I bring my dog while walking the South West Coast Path?
The South West Coast Path is a great place to take your dog for a walk. They are permitted on the entire path, and providing that you responsibly look after them to avoid disturbing livestock and wildlife or causing a nuisance to other walkers, you will be welcomed.
What is the best time of year for walking the South West Coast Path?
Whilst spring and late summer are the best times to walk the path, summer and winter can also be great. In spring lambs are in the fields, trees come into leaf, wildflowers are appearing and migrant birds and basking sharks are returning from warmer climes. The fresh weather is great for walking, and the occasional shower merely sharpens the view.
Summer brings warmer temperatures, meaning you can often walk in a t-shirt and shorts, and stop off at beaches for a cooling dip. Flowers are in full bloom, and the sunshine brings out drifts of butterflies. In late summer, much of the north coast turns purple and yellow and smells wonderful, thanks to the heather and gorse coming into bloom.
Autumn means the crowds have gone home, but the weather and sea temperature often remains warm enough for swimming. At this time of year, headlands are great spots to see migrating birds making their back south. As the weather terms chillier, trees take on their lovely red and gold Autumn colours.
Can I buy South West Coast Path merchandise?
We sell a range of South West Coast Path merchandise including sew on badges, enamel badges, mugs and other merchandise.
Can I get a South West Coast Path National Trail completion certificate?
Our personalised South West Coast Path certificate is a great momento for anyone that has completed the trail.