South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path is the UK's longest and arguably most challenging National Trail, an epic 630-mile adventure around the entire coastline of England's southwest peninsula. The path's origins lie in the routes created by coastguards patrolling for smugglers, who needed to be able to look down into every cove and bay. This history dictates the trail's character: it relentlessly hugs the coastline, rising and falling steeply with every river mouth, resulting in a staggering cumulative elevation gain equivalent to climbing Mount Everest nearly four times.  

What makes this trail unique is its sheer scale and diversity. It is a journey through a constantly changing coastal panorama, from the high cliffs and moorland of Exmoor to the surf-battered beaches of North Cornwall, the rugged granite headlands of the far west, the sheltered estuaries of South Devon, and the ancient, fossil-rich cliffs of the Jurassic Coast. It is a walk through deep time, revealing geological history in the cliff faces, and through human history, passing prehistoric settlements, tin mines, and fishing villages. Despite its wildness, the path is well-supported by a network of towns and villages offering accommodation and refreshment, making it an accessible, albeit immense, undertaking.

The South West Coast Path is a 630-mile National Trail running from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Due to its immense length, most people walk it in sections over many years. Both the start and end points, as well as numerous towns along the route, are accessible by the UK's public transport network of trains and buses. A well-developed baggage transfer service covers the entire length of the path, allowing walkers to have their main luggage transported between overnight stops. Planning is crucial for crossing several river estuaries, which often rely on seasonal passenger ferries.

A vast array of accommodation is available, from campsites and hostels to B&Bs and luxury hotels.

• National Trust Cottages: The National Trust owns large sections of the coastline and offers unique, historic cottages for rent in spectacular locations directly on or near the path.  

• Pubs and Inns: Traditional pubs are a cornerstone of the experience, with many offering rooms, hearty food, and local ales, such as the Square and Compass in Worth Matravers on the Jurassic Coast.

• Youth Hostels (YHA): Several well-located hostels provide affordable and walker-friendly accommodation at key points, such as YHA Hartland (Trevigue) and YHA Lizard Point.