The South West Coast Path offers some of Britain’s most spectacular coastal scenery and should be on every walker’s bucket list.
Stretching 630 miles along the breathtaking south-west coast of England, the trail is packed with awe-inspiring scenery, picture-perfect fishing villages, rich local heritage and incredible sandy beaches – from Minehead in Somerset, along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, to Poole in Dorset.
The first stage of the South West Coast Path begins in Minehead in Somerset and travels along the unspoiled coastline to Westward Ho! The route passes incredible natural wonders such as Braunton Burrows, at the heart of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and spectacular Valley of the Rocks, renowned for its impressive geology and Exmoor ponies.
This section of the South West Coast Path runs from Westward Ho! in Devon to Padstow on the north coast of Cornwall, stretching along dramatic cliffs and valleys carved by the wild Atlantic Ocean. Considered one of the most challenging sections of the entire trail, the path is steep and undulating but offers wonderful views of the magnificent coastline.
The stretch of the South West Coast Path between Padstow and Penzance is considered one of the finest sections of the entire trail, and offers some of the best coastal walking in the British Isles. Highlights including Land’s End, the Minack Theatre, and the artists’ town of St Ives. Breathtaking headlands and pristine sandy beaches make this a truly unmissable experience.
The section of the South West Coast Path from Penzance to Falmouth covers a variety of landscapes, from the magnificent approach to St Michael’s Mount to the tranquil Lizard Peninsula. Every day offers a different adventure with remarkable contrasts as you walk past golden beaches, through lush woodlands and along dramatic clifftops.
This delightful section on the southern edge of the South West Coast Path begins in the foodie town of Falmouth in Cornwall and runs to the maritime city of Plymouth in Devon, taking in idyllic harbour towns such as Polperro and Mevagissey. Indulge in fresh Cornish seafood as you venture through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
This stretch of the South West Coast Path passes through dramatic headlands, steep coastal valleys and bustling seaside towns as it winds it way from Plymouth to Exmouth along the captivating coastline of south Devon. The route traverses one of the most spectacular sections of the entire trail from Hope Cove to Salcombe and visits a number of traditional seaside resorts.
The section of the South West Coast Path from Exmouth to Lyme Regis takes in part of the Jurassic Coast – England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. This coastline is renowned for its rugged beauty, dramatic cliffs, wildlife and coastal villages. It begins at the iconic red rocks of Exmouth and travels along a varied coastline to Lyme Regis in Dorset.
The final section of the South West Coast Path offers wonderful coastal walking with sweeping panoramic views and towering white cliffs. Travelling from the ‘Pearl of the Dorset Coast’ – Lyme Regis – to the vibrant town of Poole, the trail explores the incredible Jurassic Coast and takes in natural wonders such as the famous limestone archway of Durdle Door.
Our team are passionate about the great outdoors and are constantly seeking new discoveries. Read about our adventures on the South West Coast Path in our blog posts below.