Discover the South West Coast Path: Britain's Longest National Trail

Stretching from Minehead in Somerset to South Haven Point near Poole Dorset, the South West Coast Path is Britain's longest National Trail and a treasure trove of stunning coastal views, diverse landscapes and intriguing history.

An Overview of the South West Coast Path

The 630-mile (1014km) path traces the coastline of part of Somerset, all of Devon and Cornwall, and part of Dorset, offering some of the most dramatic scenery in the UK. From gentle stretches, dramatic headlands, steep coastal valleys, sheltered estuaries, busy harbours, intimate coves, moorlands, to sandy beaches, the path provides a feast for the senses.

The South West Coast Path is steeped in history, with its roots tracing back to the 19th century. The path follows the route of an ancient track used by coastguards to patrol the coastal region, protecting revenue against smugglers attempting to land contraband. Many of the cottages used by these coastguards can still be seen along the path today, often repurposed as holiday homes.

Making the Most of Your Journey

The South West Coast Path can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you're looking for short walks of a day or less, aiming to explore a specific section of the coast, or planning to conquer the entire trail, the path offers something for everyone.

Tackling the entire trail is a major undertaking, requiring considerable planning. The South West Coast Path Association estimates that walkers will need around eight weeks to cover the whole trail, walking approximately 11-12 miles per day.

It's worth noting that the path follows the contours of the coast, which means plenty of ups and downs along the route. The South West Coast Path Association has found that walkers will encounter 26,719 steps, 921 stiles, and 302 bridges. In total, you'll climb and descend 91,000 feet vertically - that’s equivalent to three times the height of Everest!

Another factor to consider is river crossings. These may require catching a ferry or detouring inland for several miles, so it's advisable to check ferry times and plan alternative routes where necessary.

Suggested Itinerary

Most people choose to walk the path in sections, covering around 60-80 miles in a week. Below is a suggested itinerary from the South West Coast Path Association.

• Week 1 - Minehead to Westward Ho! - 87 miles
• Week 2 - Westward Ho! to Padstow - 78 miles
• Week 3 - Padstow to St Ives - 66 miles
• Week 4 - St Ives to Lizard - 69 miles
• Week 5 - Lizard to Par - 72 miles
• Week 6 - Par to Torcross - 94 miles
• Week 7 - Torcross to Seaton - 72 miles
• Week 8 - Seaton to South Haven Point (near Poole) - 92 miles

Safety Precautions

Walking the South West Coast Path is a serious undertaking. Here are some safety guidelines:

• Keep away from cliff edges.
• Ensure your dog is on a lead and under close control.
• Be careful not to annoy or spook grazing animals.
• Adverse weather conditions can cause slippery conditions. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing.
• Take care of others, especially young children.
• Be cautious when swimming from rocks or hidden coves. Emergency services may be far away.

Remember to plan your accommodations in advance, as places can be fully booked during the summer months and some close during the winter.

For more information, visit the South West Coast Path official website.