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South West Coast Path: Britain’s Longest National Trail

If you’re looking for a serious walking challenge along stunning coastline, the South West Coast Path is the one. Stretching 630 miles (1,014 km), it’s the longest waymarked footpath in the UK, wrapping around the entire south-western tip of England. From Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, the trail takes you through wild headlands, peaceful bays, fishing villages, and some of the most dramatic sea views in the country.

It’s not just long – it’s tough. With over 115,000 feet of climbing and descending, walking the whole route is like summiting Mount Snowdon nearly 50 times or climbing Everest four times over. Whether you plan to walk a short section or the whole thing, you’re in for a proper adventure.

Where the Trail Goes

south west coast path map

The route begins in the town of Minehead, on the edge of Exmoor National Park, and follows the coastline through:

  • Somerset and Exmoor
  • North Devon’s high cliffs and hidden coves
  • Cornwall’s dramatic north coast
  • Land’s End and West Cornwall
  • The softer south coast of Cornwall
  • South Devon’s harbours and sandy beaches
  • Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, ending at South Haven Point near Poole

Each stretch has its own feel – from wave-battered cliffs to calm estuaries, bustling resorts to quiet countryside.

Trail Markings and Landmarks

The entire route is clearly signposted with the National Trail’s acorn symbol, making it easy to follow. There are key markers at the official start in Minehead, the halfway point at Porthallow in Cornwall, and the finish at South Haven Point near Poole. These spots are popular for photos – a great way to track your progress or celebrate the end of your journey.

You’ll also come across distance posts letting you know how far you are from each end. And although most people walk it west to east (Minehead to Poole), there’s nothing stopping you from doing it the other way round.

How to Plan Your Walk

Breaking the trail into smaller sections is the best way to approach it. Officially, the route is divided into seven parts based on geography:

  • Somerset & Exmoor – 35 miles
  • North Devon – 90 miles
  • North Cornwall – 66 miles
  • West Cornwall – 144 miles
  • South Cornwall – 76 miles
  • South Devon – 104 miles
  • Jurassic Coast (Dorset) – 115 miles

You can pick a section that suits your time and ability – from a weekend trip to a full-blown walking holiday.

How Long Does It Take?

On average, walking the full 630 miles takes 7 to 8 weeks. Some manage it in under 30 days, while others take several months. A popular option is to follow a 52-day schedule, walking around 12 miles a day. That pace leaves time to enjoy the places you pass through – and maybe a pub lunch or two.

If you’re thinking of doing the whole trail, it’s worth getting a detailed guidebook. It’ll help you plan your route, find places to stay, and discover local attractions along the way. Many walkers also choose to support the charity behind the Path, which helps maintain and protect it for future visitors.