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1028.2 km
~51 days
7538 m
Multi-Day
“Embark on a scenic trek through England's history, wildlife, and coastal splendor along the South West Coast Path.”
Spanning approximately 1028 kilometers (639 miles) and with an elevation gain of around 7500 meters (24,606 feet), the South West Coast Path is a spectacular long-distance walking route that traces the coastline of the southwest peninsula of England. Starting near Minehead in Somerset, the trail meanders through the counties of Devon and Cornwall before concluding in Poole Harbour, Dorset.
Getting to the Trailhead
The starting point of the South West Coast Path is accessible from the nearest town of Minehead. For those opting for public transport, regular bus services run from Taunton, which has a mainline railway station. If you're driving, Minehead is well-signed and offers several car parks where you can leave your vehicle before embarking on your hike.
Trail Overview and Landmarks
As you set out from Minehead, the path offers gentle inclines, providing a good warm-up for the journey ahead. The trail quickly becomes more rugged as you approach the Exmoor National Park, with its dramatic coastline and high cliffs. Here, you'll be treated to views of the Valley of Rocks and the picturesque village of Lynmouth, approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the start.
Continuing along the North Devon coast, you'll encounter the sandy beaches of Woolacombe and Croyde, popular among surfers and beachgoers. The path then leads you to the historic fishing village of Clovelly, with its cobbled streets and harbor, roughly 90 kilometers (56 miles) into the hike.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
The South West Coast Path is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The diverse habitats along the route, from coastal heathland to tidal estuaries, support a variety of birdlife, including peregrine falcons and the rare cirl bunting. Seals and dolphins are also commonly spotted off the coast.
As you traverse the Cornish coastline, the trail unveils the industrial heritage of the region, with remnants of tin mines and engine houses dotting the landscape. The path takes you through the iconic St. Ives Bay and around the serpentine cliffs of the Lizard Peninsula, the most southerly point of mainland Britain.
Historical Significance
The South West Coast Path is steeped in history, with landmarks such as Tintagel Castle, said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, located around 340 kilometers (211 miles) from the start. The trail also passes through the maritime city of Plymouth, where the Mayflower set sail in 1620.
Challenges and Navigation
The terrain varies greatly, from easy, flat sections to steep climbs and descents, which can be challenging. The path is well-marked, but due to its length and the variable British weather, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to keep track of your progress and plan your stops.
Accommodation and Resupply Points
There are numerous towns and villages along the route where you can find accommodation, ranging from campsites to B&Bs. Resupply points are also plentiful, but it's wise to plan ahead, as distances between towns can vary.
Conclusion
The South West Coast Path offers an immersive experience into the natural beauty, wildlife, and history of England's southwest coast. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a scenic stroll, this trail provides an opportunity to explore one of the UK's most stunning landscapes.
What to expect?
Activity types
Frequently asked questions
How long is the South West Coast Path and where does the full route start and finish?
The South West Coast Path is about 1,028.17 km long, roughly 639 miles, making it one of Britain’s great long-distance walks. The route begins at Minehead in Somerset and follows the coast all the way to Poole Harbour in Dorset, with the National Trail end point at South Haven Point.
How difficult is the South West Coast Path and is the South West Coast Path suitable for beginners?
The South West Coast Path is generally considered difficult because of its sheer length and the constant up-and-down nature of coastal walking. Total elevation gain is about 7,538 m on this route listing, and even shorter sections can include repeated steep climbs above coves, cliffs, and river mouths, so it is better suited to experienced walkers or to beginners tackling it in shorter stages.
How many days does it take to walk the entire South West Coast Path?
Walking the entire South West Coast Path usually takes several weeks rather than a few days. At 1,028.17 km, a pace of 20 to 30 km per day puts the full trail at roughly 34 to 52 walking days, and many walkers allow extra time for weather, rest days, and the tougher cliff sections in Exmoor, Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset.
Where can you park to start the South West Coast Path in Minehead?
Minehead has several public parking options close to the western end of the trail. Quay West Car Park is a long-stay pay-and-display lot near the harbor with 24-hour access, and Somerset also lists other council-run Minehead parking such as Alexandra Road, making the town a practical place to begin a multi-day walk.
Can you get to the South West Coast Path trailhead in Minehead by public transport?
Yes. The usual public transport approach to the Minehead end of the South West Coast Path is by train to Taunton, then onward by bus to Minehead. Official trail travel information also notes an alternative using bus and the West Somerset Railway heritage line to reach Minehead from the Taunton area.
Which direction is best to walk the South West Coast Path from Minehead or from Poole?
Most end-to-end walkers go from Minehead to Poole, so west and south around the peninsula before finishing in Dorset. That anti-clockwise direction is the most common on the National Trail, although the route is waymarked in both directions with the acorn symbol used on National Trails.
Are dogs allowed on the South West Coast Path?
Dogs are allowed on much of the South West Coast Path, but restrictions can apply on some beaches and access land, especially in seasonal periods or around livestock and sensitive wildlife areas. On restricted stretches, the usual guidance is to keep dogs on a lead and stay on the line of the Coast Path, so rules can vary from one section to the next.
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