Take The Walk of a Lifetime- The South West Coastal Footpath

Stretching for 628 miles along the coastline from Poole in Dorset right around Lands End in Cornwall and up the coast to Devon and to Minehead in Somerset is the South West Coastal Footpath. With marked trails passing castles, precipitous cliffs and sandy beaches some of the most stunning scenery in Europe can be seen along the walk which can be done in its entirety taking around 6-7 weeks or as smaller staged trails and even some circular walks which begin and end at a country pub. Some people do a stage each year gradually completing the walk. The South West Coastal Footpath is also free of charge to do and has inspired writers and artists for years. For a walking holiday this is a destination to consider.

Walking through Dorset

Dorset has some amazing coastline from sandy beaches to the deserted village of Tyneham, the iconic Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door that inspired Thomas Hardy, and the famous Jurassic coastline where you could stumble upon a fossil or two whilst walking. Some of the trails are challenging with steep cliffs whilst other parts have a flatter terrain. For the peace of the shoreline and the outstanding natural beauty this is an area of England that is unforgettable. The trail continues through Lyme Regis and in to Devon where cosy harbours and small villages make the trail a joy to walk. In South Devon the birdlife is amazing and walkers are likely to see flocks of teal, brent geese, ringed plover and more. Finding the route is easy- if you are walking from Poole keep the sea on your left and from Minehead keep the ocean on the right.

Cornish trails

Onwards into Cornwall where the fishing communities mingle with rugged cliffs, old smuggling coves and the remnants of the tin industry. There is even the Minack Theatre at Portcurno, magical St Michael's Mount near Penzance and the beaches of Newquay, St Agnes and Padstow. At one time smuggling was rife in these tiny villages and cliff top lookouts. At Tintagel the ruined remains of King Arthur's Castle are an excellent place to take a rest and absorb some of the legends of this region. There is enough to do for a day or a week along this coastline and along the trail some good pubs and guest houses.

In Devon there is the outline of Lundy Island, the coastal scenery of Westward Ho! and the rolling hills of farmland and meadows. The trail continues into Somerset ending at the resort of Minehead after 628 miles of outstanding natural beauty.

Practicalities

The South West Coastal Footpath is steep in areas and not really suitable for small children or dogs. Rainwear is an essential item in your rucksack as the weather can change rapidly and of course a good set of hiking boots. Take water, food and some sunscreen and a walk can be as long or as short as you like. Smal routes such as circular pub tours are also available taking 2-3 hours.

Highlights of the walk

Some of the highlights of walking on the South West Coastal Footpath in England include Hartland Point, St Michael's Mount, Tintagel, Polperro, Cape Cornwall, Lyme Regis, Durdle Door, the Lizard and Clovelly.

Plan your route and enjoy one of the most oustanding areas of natural beauty in Britain.