There are an extensive number of featured walking routes across the length and breadth of the UK that reflect the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of the country.

That said, there is none better than the longest and best-loved National Trail, the South West Coast Path which runs for 630 miles along the stunning coastline of southwest England.

The walk is not only exhilarating and demanding, but highly rewarding as well, particularly for those who are willing to accept the challenge. Read on to find out all you need to know before attempting to walk the world’s most awe-inspiring trail.

If you seek self guided walking holidays in the UK, Walk With Williams is surely your best bet.

About the trail

Starts at: Minehead, Somerset

Ends at.: Poole Harbour, Dorset

The multi-award winning South West Coast Path begins from Minehead and winds its way along the Exmoor coast, continues on to North Devon and into Cornwall.

It further runs across the mouth of River Tamar and continues onward towards Devon where it follows the Devon coastline before finally ending at Poole Harbour.

Best time to do the walk

While the walk is achievable all-round the year, there are reasons enough to walk in each season to admire the beautiful landscapes with the stormy seas in the foreground.

Having said that, if good weather is a priority, it is advisable to do the hike between March and September, but especially in spring, when the flora and fauna are flourishing, including the spectacular white bluebells.

The weather is at its best during the middle of the year and is the busiest period for walkers and the people of the towns the route passes through. Also, it is recommended to walk before October to avail of the ferry crossings required to cross the water bodies to avoid taking long detours by road.

Again, Autumn is prime time to see the migratory birds, while there is nothing better than seeing the stormy ocean waves pound the coastal cliffs during winter.

How long it takes to do the walk?

As with any long-distance walk, the time required to complete the South West Coast Path walk varies greatly on the fitness level and personal preferences of the walker.

A general consensus is that it takes between 48-64 days to cover the entire route. However, if you have limited time at your disposal, it is suggested to do the walk in sections, as each of them have tough ascents and descents to tackle.

No matter how tough these sections are, they are highly rewarding as not only they evoke a feeling of seclusion but provide the most scenic coastal views in the country. No wonder that the various segments are enjoying by millions of walkers each year.

Starting the walk

The walk is usually undertaken in an anticlockwise direction from Minehead to Poole. Depending on what suits you, a good thing about doing the South West Coast Path walk is that you can begin and end your trek at any point along the route as it is well-connected to the towns and villages that fall in the way.

Also, local public transportation is regularly available along most of the coast, which means you can travel to a preferred point pretty easily.

Walking routes of South West Coast Path

Section 1 The start of the South West Coast Path

                from Minehead to Westward Ho(87 miles)

Section 2 From Westward Ho to Padstow across

                the Cornish Borders(79 miles)

Section 3 Padstow to St Ives across the best

                beaches in North Cornwall(66 miles)

Section 4 St Ives to Penzance(41 miles)

Section 5 Penzance to Falmouth around Lizard

                Peninsula, Britain’s most southerly point

                (61 miles)

Section 6 Falmouth to Plymouth across coves and.

                harbours(77 miles)

Section 7 Plymouth to Brixam over the ancient

                maritime route(69.5 miles)

Section 8 Brixham to Lyme Regis from East Devon

                to the Jurassic Coast(58 miles)

Section 9 Lyme Regis to Poole taking you to the

                end of the full route(86 miles)  

Way markers and sign posts

The South West Coast Path is the country’s longest way marked trails with literally hundreds of waymarkers with the acorn National Trail symbol leading walkers to the right path.

The path is also well sign-posted and in case of an emergency stick to the right side of the road, but only if you are walking West to East.

What’s included in a South West Coast Path walking holiday in the UK

  • Accommodation in high quality guest houses, hotels or inns on a bed and breakfast basis
  • Room with private bathroom and tea and coffee maker
  • Daily luggage transfer
  • Detailed itinerary and guide books

 

Optional extras:

  • Upgrade to the best hotels on the route subject to availability
  • Transfers back and from to station or car park
  • Rest days
  • Parking facilities
  • Day trip to Lundy

 

What is not included:

  • Lunch and dinner. They can be purchased at your overnight place of stay or from the town/village
  • Travel insurance

 

Options to add an extra day

There is a fantastic choice of day trips or rest days on some of the towns and villages on the way. Some of the top picks are highlighted below:

  • Port Isaac: Spend a day discovering the picturesque villages along the first stretch of the South West Coast Path. More importantly, treat yourself at the Outlaw’s Fish Restaurant, voted one of the best in the UK.
  • Padstow: Here you can take a boat trip to the beautiful harbour to spot seals sharks, puffins and more
  • St Ives: Home to the world famous Tate Gallery and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden to learn about the activities that have defined this town
  • Plymouth: A great city to spend the day by walking the cobblestone streets and exploring the Mayflower Museum
  • Salcombe: Learn about history at the Salcombe Maritime Museum and sample award winning cocktails at the Salcombe Distillery Company

 

Toughest sections on the route

Walking the South West Coast Path is often compared to conquering Mt Everest a number of times, so it is but natural that there will be tough sections on the route.

The toughest section on the route is between Minehead and Westward Ho because of the undulating and tough nature of the path.

Equally tough is the path between St Ives and Zennor, which is short but extremely challenging and remote.

Easiest sections on the route

A comparatively easy section is from Plymouth to Exmouth, a distance of 101 miles. This route covers sections that are flatter and pass through seaside towns and low-level woodlands.

Key highlights of the path

The most spectacular section is between Exmouth and Poole which marks the beginning of the Jurassic Coast Walk, the first UNESCO natural World Heritage Site in England.