There are few paths in the UK as well known as the South West Coast Path. Stretching from Somerset all the way around the coastline to Poole Harbour in Dorset, this beautiful route is the longest waymarked trail in England and promises endless opportunities for salt-kissed strolls and breathtaking views.
Spanning multiple National Landscapes, the scenery on offer along the South West Coast Path is second to none, from dramatic clifftops and thundering waterfalls to sweeping beaches and sheltered coves. Along the way, discover a toothsome variety of beach cafés and welcoming restaurants where you can refuel while gazing out across a glittering seascape dotted with boats. Some of the UK’s most famous landmarks reside on the South West Coast Path too, from coastal fortresses to incredible cliff-top amphitheatres carved into the very stone beneath your feet.
Excited to explore this endlessly captivating footpath? Here’s everything you need to know about the South West Coast Path, from where to eat to what to do while you’re there.
What is the South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is 630 miles long, making it the longest marked trail in England and one the best places to go for a breathtaking walk with a sea view. The entire trail has over 115,000ft in elevation, the same as climbing Mount Everest four times! It spans all the way from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset, trailing the coast of Devon and Cornwall as it goes.
Originally used by the coastguard, who would patrol the coast for smugglers and the like, the path is often much closer to the cliffs than other coastal paths. This has led to a trail that hugs the South West coastline and offers some of the most beautiful views in the country, from otherwise hidden coves to towering cliffs home to colonies of sea birds.
There are many ways to explore the South West Coast Path. You can split the journey up into bitesize chunks, chipping away at a trail when you’re in the area. Or, you can walk the entire length in one go for the ultimate adventure, which can take between one and two months (we recommend leaning towards two months, so you can enjoy a more leisurely experience).
Geography
Around 70% of the South West Coast Path is a part of either a National Landscape or National Park, making it one of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes to explore in the UK. Boasting jaw-dropping variety around every corner, there’s no end to the impressive geological features you’ll uncover, from the serpentine cliffs on the Lizard Peninsula to the chalk cliffs of Dorset.
You’ll see every kind of rock formation too, with the impressive stacks at Bedruthan Steps and the iconic Old Harry Rocks amongst the most famous. Encouraging you to enjoy a spot of geography at any age, the coast’s many arches, caves, and boulders offer an ever-changing backdrop, while the aptly named Jurassic Coast promises budding palaeontologists plenty of fossil-hunting opportunities.
As for the beaches, you can look forward to every kind imaginable, from miles of golden sand and pebble-strewn coves to shingle bays scattered with seashells. Hunt for sea glass, explore tidal rock pools, or soak up the beautiful views as you lie back in powder-soft sand.
The eye-catching geology of the South West Coast Path has made it a firm favourite with the film and television industry, with Hollywood hits such as The Salt Path and James Bond and small-screen favourites from Poldark to Broadchurch filming many scenes along the coast.
Wildlife
Depending on the time of year, the South West Coast Path is home to an enormous variety of wildlife, whether they call our waters home or just pass through.
Marine mammals
When it comes to wildlife watching along the South West Coast Path, seals are your best bet. Common and grey seals can be spotted throughout the year, with the autumn months offering the chance to see some adorable pups too. Seals are best spotted from cliffs and wildlife-watching cruises, as although they do haul themselves onto beaches to rest, you should never approach them and always keep your distance. Dolphins, porpoises, humpback whales, and even orcas can sometimes be seen in the waters around the South West Coast Path.
Sharks
Cornish waters are home to the second largest shark in the world, the basking shark. These gentle giants feed on plankton and can be seen from Cornwall’s towering cliffs between May and September. West Cornwall is perhaps the best area for spotting these incredible sharks, although they can pop up anywhere as they glide through the water. Most other sharks and fish are best seen from boats, with safari cruises taking you out to spots where thresher sharks and bluefin tuna can sometimes be spotted.
Sea birds
Home to an abundance of sea birds, the South West Coast Path is a dream for twitchers. Fulmar, cormorants, and shags can be spotted throughout the year, while some species only appear for certain months such as puffins, razorbill, and arctic tern, which are best spotted in the spring and summer. Although not a seabird, Cornwall, especially around the marshes in Marazion, is one of the best places in the country to see starling murmurations in the autumn and winter.
Beaches
It wouldn’t be a visit to the South West Coast Path without checking out the beautiful beaches that line the coast, from sheltered coves to great swathes of golden sand perfect for beach games.
Swimming beaches
Nothing refreshes the body and soul quite like a swim in the ocean, whether it’s a bracing dip in the winter months (woolly hats adding a splash of colour to the waves) or a swim in azure waters that cools you down after a sun-kissed stroll. The South West Coast Path is home to some of the best swimming beaches in the UK, with golden sands and clear blue waters promising an almost tropical setting for your swim.
In Cornwall, Falmouth’s beaches all promise pretty settings and sheltered aspects perfect for bathing, while Kynance Cove offers a wilder spot for your swim. Or, for those wanting the salty kiss of the sea without the waves, one of Cornwall’s many tidal pools is a fantastic alternative to a sea swim, from the famous Bude Sea Pool to the gorgeous lagoon that appears at Pedn Vounder at low tide.
Devon’s south coast is chock-full of welcoming swimming beaches, with the unique beach at Bantham and the tree-lined haven at Blackpool Sands leading the way. On the north coast, Tunnels Beach is listed amongst the safest beaches in the county, with its Blue Flag status well-deserved.
Along the coast in Dorset, you’ll find a stunning suite of beaches perfect for bathing, from the golden sands of Swanage Beach to the 3 miles of paradise at Weymouth.
Surfing beaches
Planning on hitting the waves during your tour of the South West Coast Path? A whole roster of great surfing beaches ensures your wave cravings are always met, with many offering surfboard and wetsuit hire so you can travel unencumbered.
Devon and Cornwall are home to some of the best surfing beaches in the UK, including surf capital, Fistral Beach. It might be known for its charming streets and near-tropical beaches, but St Ives is also beloved amongst beachgoers for its consistent surf. On the northern coast, beaches like Sennen, Perranporth, and Summerleaze in Cornwall and Woolacombe Beach in Devon make full use of the Atlantic swell, boasting excellent waves and some brilliant surf schools. In Dorset, Bournemouth boasts a tight-knit surfing community, with the historic pier providing excellent banks and dependable surf.
Family-friendly beaches
Whether you’re looking for a lifeguarded beach so the kids can swim safely or something with a little extra to keep them entertained, the South West Coast Path is jam-packed with fabulous, family-friendly beaches. Known far and wide for its fossil-hunting, Dorset’s Jurassic Coast is lined with beaches geared towards the paleontologically-minded. Lyme Regis is a fantastic base (check out our webcam for a sneak peek), with lots of cafés and amenities, while the nearby beaches of Charmouth and Monmouth boast some of the best fossil hunting in the country.
In Cornwall, beaches such as Praa Sands and Crantock Beach have lifeguards patrolling in the summer months, while smaller beaches such as Readymoney Cove and Towan Beach are wonderfully family-friendly due to their sheltered aspects. Devon’s Bigbury Beach is a firm favourite with families, as the shallow waters and beachfront café create a lovely setting - plus the sea tractor is always a real winner with the tots.
Dog-friendly beaches
If a day at the beach isn’t the same without your pup by your side, the many glorious dog-friendly beaches in the South West are sure to get the tail wagging. Home to some of the most eye-catching dog-friendly beaches going, Dorset’s coastline welcomes every traveller. The famous three? Durdle Door, Man O’ War Beach, and Lulworth Cove are all dog-friendly throughout the year, making for some seriously pup-approved stop-offs when walking this stunning section of coast.
Not only does Perranporth Beach in Cornwall boast the UK’s only bar on a beach (which is dog-friendly too, by the way), it’s also a welcoming 2 miles of dog-friendly goodness. Enjoy wind-swept walks or plop down on the sand to watch the surfers and kitesurfers. Nearby Newquay has many superb dog-friendly beaches to its name too, including Mawgan Porth, Crantock, and Watergate Bay.
Open to dogs throughout the year, Saunton Sands is one of the biggest and best dog-friendly beaches in Devon, with miles of golden sand and tufted dunes for furry friends to explore. There’s also a wonderful dog-friendly café, which has lots of tasty treats for dogs and their humans.
Accessible beaches
From sand chairs available to hire to ramps down to the beach, there are lots of lovely accessible beaches along the South West Coast Path that ensure everyone can enjoy a sun-soaked day at the beach. In North Cornwall, Crooklets Beach is a wonderful spot when visiting with a pushchair or wheelchair. There’s level access from the car park and a sand chair you can reserve from the Summerleaze Beach Office, as well as plenty of facilities nearby. Gyllyngvase Beach in South Cornwall is another favourite, with level access, disabled toilets, and a hireable sand chair.
One for surfing enthusiasts, Croyde Bay in North Devon not only offers sloped access to the beach on the northern end but also a surf school that provides fun-filled accessible surfing experiences so you can take to the waves. Possibly the most accessible beach in the South West, West Bay in Dorset is a haven for wheel-friendly beach days. Ramps lead down to the beach and wheel-friendly matting is placed along the beach in the summer months. There are also floating wheelchairs available to hire, giving you complete access to the shimmering waters.
Things to do
Peppered with fascinating formations and remnants of bygone eras, there's a lot to see and do while traversing the South West Coast Path...
Landmarks
Peppered with castles, natural phenomena, and historic remnants, the South West Coast Path is the perfect way to tour some of the best landmarks in the South West. Cornwall certainly boasts the lion’s share of coastal castles, with the likes of St Michael’s Mount, Tintagel Castle, and the sister castles in St Mawes and Falmouth (to name but a few). In Cornwall, you’ll also find remnants of the county’s rich mining heritage dotted across the coastline, from the striking engine houses at Botallack to the iconic Wheal Coates at St Agnes, as well as the world-famous clifftop showstopper, Minack Theatre.
Devon is home to some truly fascinating natural landmarks, from the dramatic Valley of Rocks where towering rock formations and roaming goats await to the fascinating tidal Burgh Island near Bigbury-on-Sea, which inspired Agatha Christie’s beloved whodunnit And Then There Were None. Devon also boasts a selection of historic piers, not to mention the famous striped lighthouse in Plymouth, the ultimate coastal landmark if ever there was one.
Dorset’s top landmarks are largely of the natural variety, from the iconic arch at Durdle Door to the chalk stacks at Old Harry Rocks. Golden Cap is one of the most popular walking destinations in Dorset as the lofty clifftop peak stands an impressive 191 metres above sea level, promising far-reaching views to all who make the climb (don’t worry, we have an easy route you can take).
Historic houses, gardens and National Parks
When you think of the South West Coast Path, a sub-tropical garden or rolling moorland might not be your first thought, but when you’ve got over 600 miles of path, you’d be surprised by the landscapes you’ll uncover along the way.
For near tropical gardens, head to Trebah on Cornwall’s balmy south coast or Overbeck’s Garden in South Devon. Boasting a merry mix of exotic plants - not to mention beautiful sea views - they’re a lovely place to stop and enjoy a gentler stroll (and maybe even a cream tea).
If you’re looking for a bit of history during your tour of the South West Coast Path, there are some fantastic historic houses to look around. From the castellated stylings of Caerhays in Cornwall to the oh-so-pretty Coleton Fishacre in Devon, nothing beats the picturesque combination of house and estate in a glorious coastal setting.
On the hunt for something a little wilder? Exmoor National Park is the start of the South West Coast Path, inviting you to begin your journey with a side of rugged moorland. Or, when you reach South Devon, you can always enjoy a short detour and uncover the heather-topped beauty of Dartmoor National Park. Along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, Durleston Country Park and National Nature Reserve invites you to enjoy a spot of wildlife watching as you explore the sprawling site. Visit the café for a bite to eat, walk along one of the five waymarked trails, or stop by the visitor centre for a mix of history and exhibitions.
Towns and villages
From historic harbours to car-free must-visits, the many towns and villages along the South West Coast Path are as much a draw as the trail itself. In Cornwall, the postcard-pretty town of St Ives is a popular holiday destination, with near-tropical beaches, independent shops, and mouthwatering restaurants offering everything you need during your stay.
Other bucket-list harbours include Charlestown and Port Isaac - which have been placed firmly on the map as famous filming locations - Poole Harbour, and Falmouth, famous as the third largest natural harbour in the world. Whether it’s Porthleven and Padstow for Michelin recommended dining or Weymouth for a spot of boat-watching, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier setting.
Lyme Regis in Dorset is famed for its fossil hunting, while Clovelly in Devon has made a name for itself as a car-free village that’s as pretty as it is steep. Devon’s coastal city, Plymouth is a hub of music, culture, and seaside pursuits, offering a range of things to do while exploring the South West Coast Path, from gin tastings and shopping to paddleboarding.
Walks
Let’s be honest, if you’re on the South West Coast Path, odds are you’re walking! From circular loops that offer a bit of country to go with your coast to day-long treks that take in some of the route's best landmarks, walking really is the best way to enjoy the South West Coast Path.
The South West Coast Path is also home to some lovely wheel-friendly routes. In Cornwall, the beautiful stretch between Marazion and Mousehole is completely paved, inviting you to soak up the famous views across Mount’s Bay, while Ilfracombe in North Devon offers a lovely circular and accessible walk, boasting coastal spoils and plenty of opportunities for an ice cream. Lulworth Cove is a great place to walk with kids as the easier paths are suitable for pushchairs and the breathtaking beach and fascinating fossil forest are sure to keep the little ones entertained.
Looking for a challenging stomp? With some seriously dramatic stretches of coastline, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to big and beautiful backdrops for your walk. Cornwall’s granite-hewn peninsulas are a sight to behold, with Land’s End promising one of the most famous stretches to explore. Discover hidden coves, shipwrecks, and lighthouses around the peninsula, or head towards St Ives to uncover the magical coastline between Zennor and St Ives. Beer in South Devon boasts similarly rugged cliffs to explore, alongside lots of lovely waterside pubs where you can rest during your trek.
Places to eat
Boasting astonishing views and easy access to some of the country's best beaches, it's little wonder the many fabulous pubs, cafes, and restaurants along the South West Coast Path are so popular.
Pubs
There are few things better than a refreshing drink overlooking the ocean and that goes doubly when walking the South West Coast Path. You just can’t beat a glorious stroll along rugged cliffs and sandy coves that ends with a beautiful pub full of local ales, good food, and a warm welcome. With the Lizard on its doorstep and a swathe of salt-kissed trails to explore, Porthleven in Cornwall is the place to be for a mix of fresh air and food. Boasting several fabulous pubs with sea views, including the famous Ship Inn and Harbour Inn, this historical harbour is the perfect place to sit and sink back a few, whether the sun is shining or the seas are raging. Or, for a dog-friendly pub stop, visit The Watering Hole in North Cornwall, which sits right in the middle of Perranporth Beach - talk about location!
The Ness in South Devon enjoys uninterrupted views of the water and a menu that has you covered from light lunches to toothsome Sunday roasts, while the Hope & Anchor in Kingsbridge calls out to dogs and their well-behaved owners for a refreshing drink overlooking the ocean. Dorset’s pubs are just as well placed, whether you want to be within walking distance of the beautiful Lulworth Cove or instant access to the beach at Portland.
Restaurants
In the mood for some fine dining as you navigate the South West Coast Path? From Michelin star restaurants to more relaxed spots that serve astonishingly good food alongside jaw-dropping sea views, nothing trumps a coastal restaurant in the South West. Padstow and Port Isaac in Cornwall boast several Michelin star restaurants, each a stone’s throw from the ocean, while St Mawes and Falmouth promise a lip-smacking selection of lovely restaurants by the sea, from The Idle Rocks to Indidog.
In Dorset, Lyme Regis invites you to dine in a variety of wonderful restaurants, whether you’re craving the cosy atmosphere of a 400-year-old wine cellar or the waterside ambience of a beachfront restaurant that boasts divine cocktails and locally sourced seafood.
Perched above the beach at Instow near Bideford, The Boathouse is a carefully crafted coastal escape ideal for a mid-walk reprieve. The decking area is dog-friendly too, so why not take the pooch for a sandy sprint before settling onto the sun-soaked balcony for some hearty grub with a great view.
Beach cafés
From cream-topped hot chocolates in the cooler months to ice creams, milkshakes, and deliciously light bites in the summer, beach cafés are on hand across the South West Coast Path to make your day a little tastier. Tucked away in a haven of dappled woodland and golden sands, the beach café at Blackpool Sands is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. You can sit in with your scrumptious meal or take it away to enjoy it on the sun-warmed sands. Branscombe boasts another wonderful beachfront café, while the Winking Prawn in Salcombe promises a shabby-chic setting perfect for some relaxed food after a day at the beach.
In Cornwall, spectacular settings are around every corner, with lovely beach cafés to boot, from the serpentine cliffs of Kynance Cove to the tropical surrounds of Porthminster and Porthmeor in St Ives. If it’s sun-soaked views and golden sands you’re after, stopping by Hive Café in Bridport is a must. Close to the famously long Chesil Beach and iconic cliffs at West Bay, it’s ideally located for a refuel while exploring this gorgeous stretch of the South West Coast Path.
Ready to embark on your next adventure along the South West Coast Path? Explore our beautiful holiday cottage in the South West for a memorable stay by the sea.
