Could your photo be crowned the winner?
The South West Coast Path Association has officially opened entries for the 2025 South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year, inviting anyone who has captured images along the nation’s favourite coastal walking route this year to take part.
Now in its 14th year, the competition celebrates the extraordinary beauty, diversity and stories found along the 630-mile Trail, from its dramatic headlands and golden beaches to its wildlife, heritage and the people who call the Coast Path home. The charity is encouraging photographers of all ages and abilities to share their most inspiring images taken in 2025.
The 2023 and 2024 competitions culminated in striking large-scale exhibitions at London’s Paddington Station in 2024 and 2025, showcasing 21 standout photographs each year. Building on this success, the charity is working towards hosting another public exhibition in 2026, offering entrants the chance to see their work displayed to thousands of visitors.
Photo caption: Ansteys Cove
Taken by Lloyd Cosway (Shortlisted, Sky Shot category, South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year 2024)
The competition is free to enter, with submissions helping raise awareness of the Trail and highlight the environmental pressures facing this much-loved National Trail.
2025 Categories:
• People and Path
• Urban Lines
• Nature
• Climate Change
• Sky Shot
• Young Photographer of the Year (under 18)
“We know the South West Coast Path inspires thousands of people every year,” said Aletha Mays, Head of Comms, South West Coast Path Association. “This competition gives everyone — whatever their experience — the chance to share what the Trail means to them, while helping to shine a light on the landscapes, communities and wildlife that make it so extraordinary.”
Entries close at midnight on 31 January 2026.
Prize Package
The overall winner will receive the coveted title of South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year and guaranteed inclusion in the 2026 exhibition. The main prize is to be confirmed in January 2026.
Organised by the South West Coast Path Association, the charity that cares for, champions, and improves access to this incredible National Trail, the competition helps support the Path's future by encouraging people to connect with and celebrate its 630 miles.
So, if you haven’t already, grab your camera, head to the Coast Path and start capturing — you could be crowned the 2025 South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year.
Find out more and submit entries here:
www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/