South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path is England’s longest waymarked walking route. From Minehead on the edge of Exmoor, it follows the coasts of Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Dorset to Poole Harbour. Roughly 1,026 km makes this a major journey beside the sea, with the landscape and daily rhythm changing repeatedly. Parts of the path grew from coastguard patrol routes, designed to keep every bay in view; that close relationship with the shoreline still shapes the walk. The opening is marked by Exmoor’s high coastal slopes and woods. Along the Atlantic-facing shore come rugged headlands, broad beaches and small harbours. Cornwall brings Tintagel, Port Isaac and St Ives into the journey before the coast turns around Land’s End and The Lizard. On the southern side, sheltered coves and estuaries alternate with the harbour towns around Falmouth, Plymouth and Dartmouth. Each stretch has its own character within the continuous thread of the sea. East Devon and Dorset introduce the Jurassic Coast. Red cliffs, pale limestone and chalk create a different landscape from Cornwall’s granite stretches. Chesil Beach, Portland, Lulworth Cove and Old Harry Rocks mark the later stages, where coastal geology and traditional seaside towns sit close together. Poole Harbour provides a fitting end after many weeks of walking. The official division covers 52 days, including the Portland circuit. Repeated descents to coves and climbs out again make the route demanding. Wind, rain and erosion affect daily distances and path conditions. Arrange accommodation and resupply, particularly during holiday periods. Longer section walks are also possible with transport planned around their endpoints. Ferries form part of the route at several estuaries, including Padstow, Helford, Falmouth, Fowey, Plymouth and Dartmouth. These are transport sections. After the official finish at South Haven Point, this route continues by Sandbanks ferry to the Poole shore. Check seasonal operation and timetables. The Erme crossing is tidal and has no ferry: plan it using current operator advice or a safe alternative. Follow current closure notices and signed coastal diversions.