The South West Coast Path follows the coastline from Minehead in Somerset around Cornwall's north and south coasts to Poole in Dorset, taking in Exmoor, the Cornish cliffs, and the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. At 630 miles it's the longest of England's National Trails, usually walked in sections rather than one continuous trip.
Route map
Terrain
Constant up-and-down along cliff-edge paths, with individual days often totalling more ascent than a mountain walk despite staying near sea level. Generally well-maintained and clearly waymarked with the acorn symbol, though some sections close or divert after coastal erosion and landslips.
Tips
The cumulative ascent is the biggest surprise for first-timers — check current diversions before you go, as cliff erosion regularly reroutes sections. Most people walk it in stages over several years rather than in one go. Cornwall's south coast gets busy in August; spring and early autumn are quieter.
Permits & access
No permits required.