Coastal Walks
With thousands of miles of stunning coastline the UK is wonderful place for coastal walking. We've picked some of the finest stretches of coast for walkers to enjoy.
Please use the links below to view full route information including descriptions, elevation profiles, interactive maps and GPS downloads.
You can also view an overview map of all the routes in the using the Coastal Walk Map
| Route Name | Distance | Description |
| Aberaeron to Llanerchaeron | 3 miles (5 km) | A lovely walk from the Ceredigion town of Aberaeron to the Grade I listed mansion of Llanerchaeron. The walk starts in the coastal town of Aberaeron, next to the pier. You then pass along the harbour before picking up a trail along the River Aeron. The trail branches off the river before passing through woodland and arriving at Llanerchaeron. There's some nice trails to follow around the grounds of the attractive Georgian villa. Features include a working farm, an ornamental lake and walled gardens. On the farm you can see a variety of animals including Welsh Black cattle, Llanwenog sheep, rare Welsh pigs, chickens, geese and doves. The walled gardens date from the 18th century and feature kitchen gardens, 200 year old fruit trees, beautiful herbaceous borders and a herb garden. In the woodland areas you can see wild daffodils, wood anemone and bluebells depending on the time of year. Also look out for birdlife including nesting herons, goldcrests, redstarts and nuthatches. After exploring the estate you can return to Aberaeron on the same path. View Full Details>> |
| Abermawr Woods | 2 miles (2.5 km) | This short walk takes you along Abermawr Beach and through Abermawr Woods on the Pembrokeshire Coast. View Full Details>> |
| Aberystwyth to Borth Walk | 5 miles (8 km) | This is a lovely coastal walk from the town of Aberystwyth to the village of Borth along a section of the Ceredigion Coast Path. Borth is located about 5 miles north of the town with a nice footpath taking you along the beaches and cliffs. There's some moderate climbs along the way so a reasonable level of fitness is required. From the cliff tops there are fantastic views down to Aberystwyth and along the coast. The walk starts by the pier on the sea front of Aberystwyth, near to the train station. You then head north past Constitution Hill, a wonderful viewpoint with a large Camera Obscura giving a bird's eye view of 1000 square miles of countryside and coast. The route continues along the cliff top path to Clarach Bay, where you can stop for refreshments at the cafe. Here you'll also find a lovely beach and views of the Afon Clarach which runs into the bay. The path then climbs above Clarach Bay to Wallog where you will pass an attractive shingle spit named Sarn Gynfelyn. The final section takes you past the cliffs of Craig y Delyn before descending into the pretty resort of Borth. Features in the village include a nice sandy beach and an ancient submerged forest visible at low tide along the beach. There's also a train station so you can return to Aberystwyth very easily. To extend the walk continue north along the coast path to the Dyfi National Nature Reserve. The reserve includes lovely beaches, lots of wildlife, views of the Afon Leri and a visitor centre. View Full Details>> |
| Aldeburgh | 6 miles (9.5 km) | The coastal Suffolk town of Aldeburgh is a lovely place for walkers. This circular route takes you along the River Alde, through Aldeburgh Marshes and along Aldeburgh Bay. On the way there's a great deal of attractive, varied scenery to enjoy. The town has strong associations with Benjamin Britten, the leading British composer of the 20th century. On the coastal section of the walk you will pass the Scallop sculpture dedicated to him. The piece is made up of two interlocking scallop shells, with the following inscription: 'I hear those voices that will not be drowned', which are taken from Britten's opera Peter Grimes. Listening to this piece of music as you stroll along the beach would be the perfect accompaniment to the walk. The trail starts from the Fort Green car park on the sea front. Head south along the coast towards Slaughden before turning west to pick up the footpath along the River Alde. Just after West Row Point the path leaves the river to cross Aldeburgh Marshes. The marshes are great place for wildlife watching. Look out for Kingfishers, Snipe and Reed buntings as you make your way through this peaceful area. The route continues north through the North Warren RSPB reserve. The reserve is made up of grassland, lowland heath, reed bed, shingle, dune and woodland. It contains a variety of rare shingle flora and birds such as Eurasian bittern, European nightjar, nightingale and western marsh harrier. When you reach the Suffolk Coast path turn right and then head along the shingle beach back to the car park. This final section passes a model yacht pond, the lifeboat station and a pair of 19th-century look-out towers. View Full Details>> |
| Amroth and Colby Woodland Garden | 2 miles (4 km) | Enjoy a walk along the lovely coastline at Amroth and visit the National Trust's Colby Woodland Garden. The walk starts near the sea front in Amroth and follows a footpath north to the delightful Colby Woodland Garden. Here you will find 8 acres of woodland, widlflower meadows and gardens with a variety of plants and flowers such as azaleas, bluebells, camellias, magnolias, rhododendrons. In the walled garden there is a Victorian Gothic inspired gazebo and fine Japanese maples. The wildflower meadow has pretty streams and ponds and there are peaceful woodland trails in the woodland garden. The secluded wooded valley is home to a variety of wildlife. Look out for Dippers, bats, otters, frogs and toads. After leaving the gardens you can return to the sea front on the same path and then enjoy a stroll along the prom in Amroth. To extend your walking in the area follow the Pembrokeshire Coast Path west and try the splendid Amroth to Saundersfoot Walk and Tenby to Saundersfoot Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Ardnamurchan Peninsula | 6 miles (9 km) | Explore the stunning Ardnamurchan Peninsula on this breathtaking walk on the west coast of Scotland. The circular walk starts at the car park at Portuairk and takes you along the coast to beautiful white sand beaches with turquoise water. You continue on to the Ardnamurchan Point lighthouse which is commonly described as the most westerly point of the British mainland although the nearby Corrachadh Mor is a few metres further west. The route then returns to the start point on country lanes, passing Loch Grigadale on the way. View Full Details>> |
| Ayrshire Coastal Path | 100 miles (161 km) | A walk along the beautiful Ayrshire Coast from Glenapp Kirk, just north of Stranaraer, to Skelmorlie, near Greenock. The route passes Ayr, Prestwick, Saltcoats, Troon and Largs. As well as the fabulous coastal scenery there is the beautiful backdrop of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde to enjoy. There is also a variety of wildlife including 135 species of bird, seals, otters, roe deer and foxes. Other highlights include the dramatic Culzean Castle Country Park. Here you'll find an 18th century castle perched on a clifftop on the Ayrshire coast. It's well worth exploring the extensive grounds containing lush woodland, landscaped gardens. In Ayr the route links with the River Ayr Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Baggy Point | 5 miles (7.5 km) | This popular walk in the North Devon AONB visits Baggy Point, a dramatic headland with wonderful coastal views over the beautiful Croyde Bay. The circular walk runs for just over 4 miles with some moderate climbs along the waymarked, cliff top path. View Full Details>> |
| Baiter Park | 2 miles (3 km) | Enjoy a cycle or walk through this harbourside park in Poole. The route follows a nice surfaced path along the coast from Baiter Park to Whitecliff Park with great views over Parkstone Bay to Brownsea Island and the Purbeck Hills. It follows National Cycle Route 25and is suitable for families looking for a traffic free cycle ride or an easy coastal walk. The route starts from the Baiter car park and heads east along the waterside path. You'll see lots of sailboats in the water as you make your way to Whitecliff rside Park where you'll pass the marina. There's also great views towards the Purbeck Hills and lots of birdlife to look out for on the water. You can extend your outing by heading west to Poole Quay and continuing to Holes Bay and the lovely Upton Country Park. Also nearby is Poole Park which has a large boating lake and a miniature railway. View Full Details>> |
| Barton's Point Coastal Park | 5 miles (8.5 km) | Enjoy a leisurely stroll or ride along the Queenborough Lines canal and the Isle of Sheppey Coast on this circular route in Bartons Point Coastal Park. The route begins on the coast near Sheerness train station and follows the canal path before returning to the start point through Minster Park. View Full Details>> |
| Beachy Head | 4 miles (6 km) | This exhilarating walk takes you along the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, at Beachy Head on the South Downs. The cliffs rise to a height of 162 metres (531 ft) with fabulous views along the coast to West Sussex and Dungeness in Kent. You can start your walk from the good sized car park on Beachy Head Road which has a postcode of BN20 7YA for your sat navs. From here you can pick up the trails on to the The South Downs Way which will take you along the headland. You could also start the walk from the nearby town of Eastbourne and follow the Wealdway along the beach from the town centre. See our Eastbourne to Beachy Head Walk for details and a map. As well as the magnificent views there's some lovely countryside to explore inland. Look out for lots of wildflowers in the summer and a variety of birdlife which includes Lapwing, Skylark and Perigrin Falcon. After your walk you can enjoy refreshments at the Beachy Head cliff top pub which is next to the car park. To extend your walk you can continue west along the coastal path to Birling Gap and the Belle Tout Lighthouse. Beyond there is the fantastic Seven Sisters Country Park at Cuckmere Haven. Here you will find more great cycling and walking trails along the coast and the River Cuckmere. View Full Details>> |
| Beadnell to Low Newton | 4 miles (6.5 km) | A popular walk from the Northumberland village of Beadnell to Low Newton By Sea along section of the Northumberland Coast Path. It's a lovely area with splendid views over Beadnell Bay and a visit to the National Trust owned Newton Pool Nature Reserve. The delightful village is a popular tourist spot situated in the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As such it's a great base for exploring the area on foot. The walk starts at Beadnell Harbour where there's lots of little fishing boats and an attractive beach with sand dunes. You then pick up the footpaths and head south along the lovely Beadnell Bay with its 2 mile long sandy beach. The area contains a nationally important colony of little tern and the largest mainland colony of Arctic tern in the United Kingdom. After passing the bay you come to Newton Pool. The nature reserve has a number of hides where you can look out for a variety of water loving birds on the small lakes. At the coastal Newton Haven you may also see seals. This walk finishes at the reserve but you can continue south along footpaths to Embleton Bay and the impressive Dunstanburgh Castle. The dramatic ruins are now a popular tourist attraction, standing on a remote headland with fine views of Embleton Bay and Craster. Head north to visit working fishing port of Seahouses, which also serves the tourist trade, being the embarkation point for visits to the Farne Islands.Seahouses to Beadnell The long distance St Oswald's Way also passes through the area and is another good option for extending your walk. View Full Details>> |
| Beaumaris Castle and Coast | 2 miles (3 km) | Visit the fascinating 13th century Beaumaris Castle and then enjoy a coastal section on this walk in the town of Beaumaris in Anglesey. The castle was built by Edward I towards the end of the 13th century in order to stamp his authority on the Welsh. However, it was never fully completed with money and supplies running out before the fortifications were finished. It's a hugely impressive sight with UNESCO considering Beaumaris to be one of 'the finest examples of late 13th century and early 14th century military architecture in Europe'. They have classed it as a World Heritage site. After exploring the castle you can enjoy a walk along the Anglesey Coast Path towards Fryars Bay. There's great views over the Menai Strait towards Lavan Sands, Ceredigion and Snowdonia. You can turn it into a longer circular walk by heading into the countryside and returning on country lanes to the town. From Beaumaris you can take a boat trip to visit Puffin Island. You can extend your walk by continuing north along the Anglesey Coast Path to Penmon Point. Here you'll find the Trwyn Du Lighthouse and great views towards Puffin Island, Great Orme and Snowdon. There's also nice pebble beaches and seals and dolphins to look out for. View Full Details>> |
| Bedruthan Steps | 5 miles (8.5 km) | This walk takes you to a stunningly beautiful stretch of Cornish Coast where you will find the Bedruthan Steps. View Full Details>> |
| Bempton Cliffs | 7 miles (12 km) | Bempton Cliffs RSPB Nature Reserve is considered the best place in England to watch seabirds. Start species include Puffins, Gannets, Kittiwakes, Guillemots and Razorbills. In the summer months it is a spectacular sight with hundreds of thousands of birds around the cliffs. The RSPB have created several cliff-edge viewing platforms from which to observe the action. This walk starts at the reserve car park and heads along the coast in an easterly direction before turning back and heading west towards Buckton Cliffs. A lovely footpath then heads away from the coast and into the countryside towards Bempton. A country lane from Bempton then takes you back to the car park. As such the walk provides both great coastal scenery and views of the North York Moors countryside. You can easily continue your walk along the East Riding Heritage Way towards Thornwick Bay and the wonderful Flamborough Head. View Full Details>> |
| Benfleet to Leigh on Sea | 7 miles (11.5 km) | A nice coastal walk from Benfleet to Leigh on Sea in Essex. The circular route runs for about 7 miles along a series of fairly flat footpaths. The first section takes you along the sea wall through Hadleigh Marshes before returning inland via Hadleigh Country Park and the ruins of Hadleigh Castle. The walk starts in South Benfleet next to the train station. You then head south east to the Benfleet Creek where you can pick up a footpath leading to Hadleigh Marsh. There's nice views over to Two Tree Island which you can easily visit from the path. The expansive nature reserve includes lagoons, pretty streams and great views across Hadleigh Ray to Canvey Island. The route then reaches Leigh on Sea where you have the option of catching the train back to Benfleet. This route continues west up to Hadleigh Castle. The 13th century castle ruins are located in an elevated position with fabulous views of the surrounding Essex countryside, the Essex coast and the River Thames. It's located within the Hadleigh Country Park where you can enjoy 400 acres of woodland, pasture, hay meadow and marsh. The route descends through the park to Benfleet Downs before returning to the finish point back at Benfleet. View Full Details>> |
| Berwickshire Coastal Path | 30 miles (48 km) | Follow the Berwickshire Coastal Path from Berwick on Tweed in Northumberland, to Cockburnspath, in the Scottish Borders. There's some spectacular coastal scenery to enjoy as you pass along the Northumberland and Scottish cliff tops. There are also a series of pretty coastal villages with delightful harbours including Burnmouth, Eyemouth, St Abbs and Cove. The Berwick Walls Walk is a worthy walk to do at the start of the route. View Full Details>> |
| Bishopston Valley | 2 miles (3 km) | This walk takes you through a beautiful wooded valley to the stunning beach at Pwll Du Bay. It's a delightful tranquil area with the running water of the river and interesting flora and fauna. The walk starts in Kittle and follows footpaths south through the Bishopston Valley. The paths runs along the river which is surrounded by woodland and little caves. You continue through wet meadows grazed by cattle and home to various wildflowers before coming to the delightfully secluded Pwll Du Bay. Here you can enjoy a stroll along the beach and take in the wonderful coastal views of the Gower. If you would like to continue your walking in the area then you could head a mile or so west and visit the ruins of Pennard Castle and explore the beautiful Pennard Burrows. If you head east along the coast towards Swansea you can visit the lovely beach at Caswell Bay and explore the popular Mumbles where there are more nice coastal walking paths. View Full Details>> |
| Blackpool Sands | 3 miles (5 km) | Visit the popular Blackpool Sands beach and enjoy a circular walk to Strete on this coastal route near Stoke Fleming. Blackpool Sands is located near Dartmouth and contains a beautiful beach, wooded cliffs and turquiose seas. It's a splendid place for a stroll along the beach before picking up the coast path and exploring the surrounding area. You can start the walk from the Blackpool Sands car park and then follow the South West Coast Path west to the village of Strete. At Strete you can stop for refreshments before following country lanes above the village. These lanes are in an elevated position with splendid views over the surrounding countryside and coast. They will lead you back to the finish point at the Blackpool Sands car park. To further explore the area you could head to the nearby Dart Estuary where you can visit the 14 century Dartmouth Castle and enjoy wonderful coast and river views. View Full Details>> |
| Blakeney Point Nature Reserve | 5 miles (8.3 km) | This beautiful National Nature Reserve on the Norfolk coast is a four-mile-long sand and shingle spit with sand dunes, salt marshes, tidal mudflats and farmland. View Full Details>> |
| Bolberry Down | 1 miles (1.6 km) | This easy circular walk explores the National Trust owned Bolberry Down on the Devon coast. It's a splendid place for walk with a fully accessible surfaced path, wildflowers in the summer, pockets of gorse and spectacular coastal views towards Burgh Island and Bigbury on Sea. You can start your walk from the National Trust car park, just to the south of the village of Bolberry. Then pick up the one mile path around the site. If you prefer a longer walk you could start from nearby Salcombe and follow the South West Coast Path to the down. To extend your walk you can follow the coast path west to the headland of Bolt Tail. Heading in the other direction will take you to towards Salcombe where you can try the Salcombe and Bolt Head Circular Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Botany Bay Kent | 2 miles (3 km) | Visit this lovely bay on this coastal walk in Broadstairs, Kent. The bay is a popular spot with its lovely beach and notable chalk cliffs. The walk follows a section of the Thanet Coastal Path from Kinsgate to Palm Bay. You can park at Kingsgate, Broadstairs at the end of Elmwood Road. Then pick up the coastal path to take you past Joss Bay and Kinsgate Bay to Botany Bay. On the way you will pass the 18th century Kinsgate Castle. View Full Details>> |
| Bournemouth Coast Path | 37 miles (60 km) | This super walk takes you along the beautiful Dorset and Hampshire coastline from Swanage to Lymington. You will visit the beautiful beaches at Sandbanks and Bournemouth while enjoying super cliff top walking at Swanage, Studland and Barton-on-Sea. Other highlights include the delightful nature reserves at Studland and Hengistbury Head where you will see a variety of coastal birdlife. Also of note is the stunning Christchurch Harbour and the final section along a sea wall through the beautiful Keyhaven Marshes. This fabulous nature reserve runs from Keyhaven to Lymington with a large variety of birdlife and splendid views of the nearby Isle of Wight. View Full Details>> |
| Branscombe to Beer | 3 miles (5 km) | This is a popular coastal walk between the Devon villages of Branscombe and Beer. It takes you along the South West Coast Path with fantastic cliff tops views. Highlights on the walk include a visit to the National Trust's Manor Mill, the only remaining working mill in Branscombe. You'll also pass the stunning Hooken Cliffs, a Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site. A slump in the Chalk cliffs in 1790 separated a 10-acre tract of land, now a wooded and sheltered habitat with chalk pinnacles on the seaward side. It's reached via a steep footpath leading from the clifftop to Branscombe Beach. The thick vegetation in the area is also a haven for wildlife. The walk starts at the car park in Branscombe, where there is a splendid old thatched forge where you can watch blacksmiths at work. There's also and old bakery which now serves as a tea room. After leaving the village you pass Manor Mill and head towards Branscombe Mouth on the coast. Here you pick up the coast path to take you past Hooken Beach and Hooken Cliffs, before arriving at Beer Head. Here you turn north past Pound's Pool, Arrat's Hil and Big Ledge. The route finishes in the pretty seaside village of Beer, where there are lovely views over Seaton Bay and Lyme Bay with a nice shingle beach and lots of fishing boats. Apart from a steep section at the start, the walk is fairly flat and takes place on good paths. It's about a 3 mile walk, so 6 miles there and back. View Full Details>> |
| Breakwater Country Park | 4 miles (7 km) | Enjoy over 100 acres of coastal country park on this walking route in Holyhead, Anglesey. There are fabulous views of Holyhead Mountain, the Irish Sea and the Skerries - a group of offshore islands about 7 miles from the coast. The park includes a nature trail, various other footpaths, a visitor centre and good parking facilities. The Anglesey Coast Path runs through the park so there is scope for continuing your walk along the coast in either direction. Just along the coast you will come to the spectacular South Stack Lighthouse. Here you can descend the 400 steps to the island and enjoy fabulous views on the way. The area also includes the South Stack RSPB nature reserve where you can look out for puffins and porpoises. If you head in the other direction through Holyhead you will soon come to the lovely Penrhos Beach and Penrhos Coastal Park. View Full Details>> |
| Brean Down | 2 miles (4 km) | Explore this beautiful natural pier and enjoy wonderful coastal views on this walk on the Somerset coast. The promontory stands at 318 feet (97 m) high and is a continuation of the Mendip Hills. As such there is some climbing involved but you are rewarded with wonderful views of the Bristol Channel, south Wales and Weston Super Mare. At the seaward end you will find Brean Down Fort which was built in 1865 and then re-armed in the Second World War. The area is a nature reserve and has an abundance of interesting flora and fauna. Look out for birds including peregrine falcon, dunnock and kestrel. Butterfly species include chalkhill blue, dark green fritillary, meadow brown and marbled white. In the summer months there are lots of pretty wildflowers and plants including Somerset hair grass, wild thyme, horseshoe vetch and birds-foot-trefoil. This circular walk starts at the car park and takes you to the fort, Howe Rock and Sprat Beach at the end of the promontory. You return on an alternative path. There is a cafe at car park where you can enjoy refreshments after your walk. If you'd like to cycle to the reserve then you could follow National Cycle Route 33 from Burnham-on-Sea or Weston-super-Mare. The West Mendip Way starts from Uphill next to the down. You could pick this up and head to the nearby Bleadon Hill to extend your walk. To the south east you will find the prominent hill of Brent Knoll. The hill summit provides fine views across to the down. Just to the north of Weston-Super-Mare you will find the wonderful Sand Point. This is a similar area to Brean Down with a beautiful peninsula jutting out into the Bristol Channel. View Full Details>> |
| Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve | 2 miles (2.5 km) | Explore this beautiful nature reserve on this short walk in the Somerset Levels. The reserve is situated on the mouth of the River Parrett with lovely views over the estuary to Stert Island and Burnham-on-Sea. It consists of extensive areas of mudflats, sand banks, reed beds and saltmarshes attracting a large number of birds. Look out for shelduck, curlew, redshank and oystercatcher from the excellent elevated bird hide. There is also an abundance of interesting flora with wildflowers and plants including Somerset hair grass,wild thyme, horseshoe vetch and birds-foot-trefoil. Steart Marshes nature reserve is also located on the south side of the peninsula with otters, egrets, owls waders and wildfowl to look out for. The River Parret Trail starts from Bridgwater Bay so you can pick this up to extend your walking in the area. The lovely waterside trail heads south to the nearby village of Combwich and then on to Bridgwater. This walk start from the Steart car park but you could also start from Combwich or Bridgwater and follow the River Parret Trail to the reserve. You could also head west along the estuary towards Hinckley Point Nuclear Power Station. It's a lovely walk with great views of the Sterte Flats and Catsford Common. View Full Details>> |
| Brightlingsea | 7 miles (11 km) | This attractive coastal town is located in the Tendring district of Essex. There's some lovely walking trails along the Colne Estuary to enjoy here. View Full Details>> |
| Brighton to Eastbourne | 26 miles (42 km) | This coastal walk takes you between these two major Sussex settlements. At just over 26 miles the walk is of marathon length. You'll enjoy some of the best coastal scenery in the country, with pretty beaches and spectacular cliff tops. Starting on the sea front in Brighton, the route heads east along the Undercliff Walk from Brighton Marina to Saltdean. The path runs for about 3 miles along the sea wall with the white cliffs on one side and the shingle beach on the other. The next section takes you to Newhaven with a splendid clifftop trail to enjoy. You will pass Peacehaven and the Greenwich Meridian monument which marks the site where the Greenwich meridian crosses the English south coast. At Newhaven you pass the 19th century Newhaven Fort and Newhaven Harbour, where you cross the River Ouse. You continue to Seaford passing the Martello Tower and the Seaford Head Nature Reserve where there's lots of wildlife to look out for. You then come to Cuckmere River and Cuckmere Haven where you follow a lovely riverside path to the Exceat Bridge. You continue through the Seven Sisters Country Park to the coast, enjoying wonderful views of the Seven Sisters Cliffs. On the coast you pick up the South Downs Way and head east to Birling Gap where you can visit the National Trust owned Belle Tout lighthouse. It's a good place to stop for refreshments with a nice cafe and great sea views. Continuing east you visit the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, at Beachy Head. View Full Details>> |
| Brighton to Newhaven | 9 miles (14.5 km) | Follow the Brighton to Newhaven clifftop path on this splendid coastal walk on the south coast. Much of this route follows a traffic free path along National Cycle Network route 2 so you can bring your bike too. Part of the route also passes the popular Undercliff Walk Brighton from the marina at Black Rock to Saltdean. This follows a nice surfaced path along the sea wall with great views of the white cliffs and the sea. Much of the rest of this walk is on an elevated clifftop trail with splendid coastal views. It's about a 9 mile walk but fairly flat throughout. The walk starts on the front in Brighton and heads east to the Brighton Marina where you pick up the sea wall path. This takes you to Saltdean where you will pass the impressive Saltdean Lido. You continue to Telscombe Cliffs where there's a fine cliff top path and pub. Near here are the outskirts of Peacehaven where the cycle route turns inland but you can continue along the cliff top if you are on foot. At Peacehaven you will pass the Greenwich Meridian monument marking the site where the Greenwich meridian crosses the English south coast. The final section takes you past Peacehaven Heights, Harbour Heights and the 19th century Newhaven Fort (video below) before finishing at Newhaven Harbour. At Newhaven the walk links with two long distance walking trails. You can pick up the Sussex Ouse Valley Way and follow it north along the River Ouse to Piddinghoe if you would like to extend your walk. You could also follow the Vanguard Way further along the coast to Seaford. View Full Details>> |
| Brit Valley Way | 11 miles (18 km) | From the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast at West Bay follow the Brit Valley Way to Chedington, near Beaminster. View Full Details>> |
| Brixham to Dartmouth | 9 miles (15 km) | Enjoy a coastal walk between these two popular towns in Devon. The walk follows an undulating section of the South West Coast Path with some splendid cliff top views. It's about a 9.5 mile walk so perfect for a day's hike. Starting at the marina in Brixham the path heads around Berry Head where you can enjoy a variety of flowering plants and look out for Guillemots on the cliffs. The path continues to Durl Head and around the beautiful St Mary's Bay to Sharkham Point Nature Reserve. The pretty reserve is fantastic for wildlife with ospreys in the skies above and dolphins in the beautiful turquoise waters below. You continue south to Southdown Cliff and Crabrock Point before coming to the lovely Scabbacombe Sands. Shortly after you come to another real highlight of the walk at Coleton Fishacre. The National Trust owned site has beautiful gardens full of rare and exotic plants. After exploring the gardens the route heads to Froward Point where you will find a busy National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) lookout station. Watch keepers here have recorded sightings of seals and other aquatic mammals so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you round the point. The final section of the walk runs to the pretty village of Kingswear on the River Dart. You'll pass the 15th century Kingswear Castle before coming to the village where you can catch the ferry across the river to Dartmouth. To extend your exercise you can explore Dartmouth and the Dart Estuary on our waterside walk. You could also head north and visit Dittisham using a section of the Dart Valley Trail long distance path. View Full Details>> |
| Broch of Gurness | 1 miles (1 km) | Visit this Iron Age broch village on Mainland Orkney and learn about its fascinating history stretching back over 2000 years. View Full Details>> |
| Burnham on Crouch | 3 miles (5 km) | The Essex town of Burnham on Crouch is situated in a lovely location on the Crouch Estuary opposite the RSPB's Wallasea Island. View Full Details>> |
| Burton Bradstock | 1 miles (2 km) | There are a number of lovely coastal walking trails around this pretty National Trust run estate in Dorset. The estate is part of the Jurassic Coast and includes cliff-top trails along Burton cliff and the popular shingle Hive beach. You can use the National Trust car park above Burton Cliff to access the walking trails. Alternatively you could follow the South West Coast Path from nearby Bridport to reach the estate. From the area there are splendid views of Chesil Beach and Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast. The area is also great for flora and fauna with a variety of plants such as pyramidal orchids, thrift, common mallow and wild clary. Look out for birds such as kestrels and buzzards. View Full Details>> |
| Camber Sands | 3 miles (5 km) | Enjoy a walk or cycle along National Cycle Network Route 2 from Rye to the beautiful Camber Sands. You can pick up the trail in the centre of Rye near to the train station. It's about a 3 mile ride to the beach, passing alongside Camber Road. There are lovely views of Northpoint Water and Rye Bay before passing Rye Golf Club and entering the village of Camber. It's a beautiful and popular beach with the only sand dune system in East Sussex. If you continue your cycle along the coast road you will come to Broomhill Sands and Lydd. To extend your outing you could pick up the Saxon Shore Way long distance footpath and walk to the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve just south of Rye. The reserve a variety of habitats such as saltmarsh, lagoons, grazing marsh, shingle and reedbeds. You can also visit the ruins of Henry VIII's Camber Castle. The Device Fort was built to protect the Sussex coast against French attack in the 16th century. The Sussex Border Path also passes through Rye. You can follow the path north from the town centre and enjoy a waterside walk along the River Rother. You can also follow the England Coast Path east and visit the wonderful Dungeness RSPB Nature Reserve. The large reserve boasts lakes, lagoons and an expansive section of shingle beach with a wide variety of wildlife. View Full Details>> |
| Canvey Island | 7 miles (11 km) | Enjoy a waterside walk along the Thames Estuary on this route on Canvey Island in Essex. You can follow coastal footpaths for several miles along the estuary. There's lots to see with several bays, beaches, creeks, lagoons, marshland and an abundance of wildlife. There's also great views across the water to Hadleigh Country Park and its castle. View Full Details>> |
| Cape Cornwall | 4 miles (7 km) | This stunning coastal walk visits the beautiful Cape Cornwall and the Botallack Mines near St Just. There is a National Trust car park right next to the headland from which this walk starts. You pick up the South West Coast Path and head around Cape Cornwall passing the lovely Priest's Cove and the remains of St Helen's Chapel. There are great views towards the Isles of Scilly and Land's End. You continue along the coast to Kenidjack headland where there is an Iron Age Cliff Castle, pretty wildlfowers and rare breed cattle. The next section follows footpaths along the coast and inland, exploring the fascinating ruins of the Botallack Mines. The mines were worked for tin and copper for over 500 years and include the Wheal Edward engine house and the Crowns engine houses. It's a great place for taking photos of the old ruined mining buildings with the backdrop of the coast and cliffs. You can also stop in the village of Botallack for refreshments before the return leg. The route then takes you through the countryside past Kenidjack Farm and Boscean, before picking up the coast path to return you to the car park. The long distance Zennor Churchway and Tinners Way passes the area so you could pick up this trail to further explore the area. The circular walk offers splendid views of the Cornish countryside and coast around St Ives and St Just. View Full Details>> |
| Carbis Bay to St Ives | 2 miles (3.5 km) | This is an easy coastal walk from Carbis Bay to St Ives, with wonderful views over St Ives Bay. It's a good surfaced path, running along a section of the long distance South West Coast Path. You'll pass the golden sands of Carbis Bay beach, Porthminster beach and Porthmeor beach. The popular walk also visits St Ives Head before finishing on Porthminster beach, next to the Tate Gallery St Ives. The walk starts from Carbis Bay train station so you can get the train back from St Ives. You follow a path above the train line towards Porthminster Point and beach. The walk then descends to the town, heading along the beach to the pier and harbour. You then round St Ives Head before finishing at the Tate. The gallery has rotating modern art exhibitions, focusing on British artists. Nearby, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, in the modernist artist's former studio, displays her bronzes and other works. Boat trips go to the nearby seal colonies on the Carrack Rocks and other locations along the coast. The beaches are beautiful and there's numerous places to buy refreshments before the return leg of the walk. To extend the walk you can continue along the coast path on the St Ives to Zennor Walk. Heading east will take you to the lovely Hayle Estuary where there is a RSPB reserve and tremendous views of Porth Kidney Sands. The long distance St Michaels Way also passes through the area. Pick this up to visit the famous St Michael's Mount. View Full Details>> |
| Ceredigion Coast Path | 62 miles (100 km) | This walk follows the beautiful coastline of Ceredigion from Cardigan to Borth. The walk is waymarked with a coast and sea logo. View Full Details>> |
| Charmouth | 2 miles (4 km) | Go fossil hunting on Charmouth beach and enjoy wonderful views of the Jurassic Coast on this walk in Dorset. This circular walk starts from the Charmouth Beach car park where you can gain access to the beach and search for fossils. The route then makes use of two long distance trails to take you along the beautiful stretch of coast. You first head east along the Monarch's Way to Stonebarrow Hill before returning along Stonebarrow Lane along the South West Coast Path. You can then finish the walk with a stroll through the pretty village of Charmouth before returning to the car park. The walk includes some wonderful cliff top scenery, beautiful beaches and a range of interesting flora and fauna. There are also nice views of the River Char which you'll cross twice at the start and end of the walk. Charmouth can also be reached on foot from Lyme Regis by following the South West Coast Path east for about 2 miles. You can also extend your walk by heading east along the coast to the splendid Golden Cap Estate. The Lyme Regis to Charmouth circular walk visits the fascinating cliffs at Black Ven and the Lyme Regis Golf Club. View Full Details>> |
| Chesil Beach | 21 miles (33 km) | This walk takes you along Chesil Beach to St Catherine's Chapel in Weymouth, Dorset. The walk starts from the Chesil Beach Centre car park at Portland Harbour. The centre has a welath of information about the area, wildlife exhibitions and a good cafe. The pebble beach runs for 18 miles with a series of beautiful lagoons on one side and the sea on the other. The Fleet lagoons are also a nature reserve so look out for a variety of coastal birds including Goldeneye and Manx shearwater. This walk runs from the car park to Abbotsbury where you will find the delightful Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and St Catherine's Chapel which is dated from the 14th century. You can return along the beach or pick up the South West Coast Path at Abbotsbury and return on the other side of the lagoons. You can also continue all the way along the beach to Burton Bradstock. This section of the beach passes West Bexington Nature Reserve and Burton Mere. The reserve consists of reedbed with grazing marsh and mixed coastal scrub. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna including Cetti's warbler, reed warbler, reed bunting, dormouse and water vole. As such it is another highlight of this wonderful stretch of Dorset coast. At the end of the beach you will find the splendid Burton Bradstock Estate run by the National Trust. View Full Details>> |
| Chichester Harbour | 6 miles (10 km) | This circular walk take you around the lovely Chidham peninsula. The peninsula extends southwards into Chichester Harbour and lies within an Area of Outstanding Beauty. It's a splendid place for a walk with footpaths running along the coast with fine views over the harbour for the duration of the walk. It's also great for wildlife with several species of wintering wildfowl and waders to look out for on the way. The walk starts at the village of Nutbourne where there is a train station. You can then pick up the paths heading south along the Thorney Island to Cobnor Point. Here you can enjoy nice views across the Chichester Channel to West Itchenor. The path then turns north along the Bosham Channel to the village of Chidham, with nice views over to Bosham Quay. At Chidham you head west across the countryside to return to Nutbourne. View Full Details>> |
| Christchurch Harbour | 6 miles (9 km) | This fine circular walk takes you around the beautiful Christchurch Harbour in Dorset. You'll visit the historic priory, climb to Hengistbury Head, stroll along the beautiful beaches at Mudeford and visit the pretty Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve. The walk also includes two ferry crossings so you can really enjoy the harbour from all angles! The walk starts from the car park next to Christchurch Priory in the centre of the town. You can enjoy a stroll around the priory grounds where there is a lovely stream leading to the old mill and the harbour. You then follow the path along the River Stour to the Wick Ferry. Here you can catch a little boat across the river for a fee of £1. The ferry runs on most days but if it's closed then you can always continue along the riverside path to Tuckton and cross the river there. On the other side of the Avon you pick up the Stour Valley Way to take you through fields to Hengistbury Head. Look out for horses in the fields and herons and egrets on the water meadows on this section. The paths then climb to Hengistbury Head where there are splendid views of the Isle of Wight, Mudeford Spit, Christchurch Harbour and Priory, the Purbeck Hills and Bournemouth Pier and beach. Look out for a variety of wildlife and heather in the late summer. The path then descends to the lovely Mudeford Spit with its gorgeous beaches, sand dunes and pretty beach huts. Walk along the beach for about 10 minutes and you will reach the ferry on the left hand side. The ferry runs every 15 minutes during British Summer Time, from Easter to late October. It also operates at Weekends and School Hoildays in the Winter months, weather permitting. Click here for more information. The ferry takes you to Mudeford Quay where there is a nice cafe for refreshments. Walk along the beach for a short while before turning west and following roads back to Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve. Here you will find lagoons, marshland and reed beds with Curlew, Little Egret, Black-tailed Godwits and Herons to look out for. The final section takes you past the Two Riversmeet golf course to the town and priory. To extend your walking in the area you could follow the Avon Valley Path north along the River Avon. View Full Details>> |
| Church College and Lighthouse Walk | 9 miles (14 km) | A 9 mile circular walk along the beautiful Glamorgan Heritage Coastline. View Full Details>> |
| Cistercian Way | 17 miles (28 km) | Visit historical religous sites on this fascinating walk through the South Lakeland area of Cumbria. View Full Details>> |
| Craster | 2 miles (3.7 km) | A circular walk around the Northumberland village of Craster, visiting the Arnold NWT Nature Reserve and the interesting cliff formations at Cullernose Point on the coast. The small fishing village is located in the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It has a pretty harbour and nice coastal footpaths to try. The village is located just to the south of the striking ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. This circular walk heads in the other direction to visit Cullernose Point where you will find basaltic cliffs which are a significant feature of the local landscape. The walk then passes along a quiet country lane to visit the Arnold Memorial Northumberland Wildlife Trust Reserve where you can look out for various migrant birds and red squirrels. View Full Details>> |
| Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle | 7 miles (11 km) | This walk takes you along a beautiful stretch of the Northumberland Coast Path from Craster to Dunstanburgh Castle and then on to Embleton Bay and the Newton Pool Nature Reserve. Dunstanburgh Castle was built in the 14th century, being one of the largest and grandest fortifications in Northern England at the time. The dramatic ruins are now a popular tourist attraction, standing on a remote headland with fine views of Embleton Bay and Craster. This walk starts at the small fishing village of Craster and follows the coastal path past the castle to Embleton Bay where you will find a lovely beach and sand dunes. You continue to the Newton Pool Nature Reserve where you can use the bird hides to look out for Herons and Barn Owls. View Full Details>> |
| Cromer to Overstrand | 2 miles (3 km) | Follow the cliff top path from Cromer to Overstrand on this walk along the Norfolk coast. The cliffs rise to a height of over 250ft giving great views across both settlements and along the coast. It's a short walk at just over 2 miles, but there is some moderate climbing, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. The walk starts on the sea front in Cromer next to the pier. The Grade II listed pier is the home of the Cromer Lifeboat Station and the Pavilion Theatre. You pass along the sea front before climbing away from the town towards Cromer Lighthouse. The present lighthouse was built half of a mile from the cliff edge (although it is now much closer) and came into operation in 1833. It is constructed of masonry and the tower is octagonal in shape and is 59 feet (18 m) tall. The path continues along the Royal Cromer Golf Club, before descending to the village of Overstrand. Here you can enjoy refreshments at the cliff top cafe before the return leg. View Full Details>> |
| Cromer to Sheringham | 9 miles (15 km) | Enjoy nice beaches and great coastal views from Beeston Cliffs on this circular walk along the Norfolk coast. After visiting Sheringham the route returns via the Norfolk Coast Path and Beacon Hill, Norfolk's highest point. The walk starts next to the pier in Cromer and heads west along the English Coast Path to Muckle Hill. You continue along the beach to West Runton before coming to Sheringham. Here you can enjoy refreshments before retracing your steps for about half a mile. Then you can pick up a section of the Norfolk Coast Path which climbs south away from the coast. This will take you to the 103 metres (338 ft) high Beacon Hill which is run by the National Trust. There's some nice woodland trails here with great views of the sea. After exploring Beacon Hill the walk descends back into Cromer. View Full Details>> |
| Cudmore Grove Country Park | 4 miles (6 km) | Located at the eastern end of Mersea Island this super country park is perfect for an easy coastal walk. View Full Details>> |
| Culver Down | 2 miles (4 km) | Explore the beautiful Culver Down before visiting Bembridge Fort on this circular walk on the Isle of Wight coast. There are fabulous views over Sandown Bay, Shanklin Bay and the Solent to enjoy on the walk. The downs are also covered in pretty wildflowers such as cowslip, rock rose, Bee orchid and birdsfoot trefoil. These attract many butterflies such as the chalkhill blue. The walk starts at the Culver Cliff car park and heads to Culver Battery and Whitecliff Ledge where there are great views over Whitecliff Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Bembridge. You continue along the coast path before climbing to the hill fort. Here you can explore the remains of 19th-century and First World War fortifications with gun emplacements. From the elevated position there are tremendous views over the downs to the sea. From the fort you descend across Bembridge Down back to the car park. You'll pass the Yarborough Monument, a memorial to Lord Yarborough, the first Commodore of the Royal Yacht Squadron on the way. You can extend your walk by continuing along the Isle of Wight Coast Path in either direction. The Bembridge Trail and the Yar River Trail also pass through the area just north of the hill fort. If you are on a bike then National Cycle Route 67 also runs close to the fort. You can follow the route from Bembridge to Culver Down Road and turn south to reach the downs and the fort. View Full Details>> |
| Cumbria Coastal Way | 182 miles (293 km) | Explore the wonderful coastline of Cumbria on this splendid long distance path. The walk begins at Silverdale and runs through a series of fascinating Cumbrian coastal towns and villages, before finishing near Gretna on the border with Scotland. Spectacular cliff tops, peaceful estuaries, beaches, mountains, rivers and canals are all features on this popular route.
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| Dancing Ledge | 2 miles (4 km) | Visit this lovely area of the Dorset coast on this circular walk to Dancing Ledge. The walk starts at the car park in the pretty village of Langton Matravers and descends to the coast through some attractive countryside. Dancing Ledge is so called because when the waves wash over the surface of the rocks it appears as the the ledge is 'dancing'. It's a very pretty spot with lovely views down the coast and the option of continuing to Seacombe Cliff and the nearby village of Worth Matravers. To extend your walk you could pick up the South West Coast Path and head east towards Swanage and Durlston Country Park. Our Purbeck Circular Walk also passes the site so you could pick this up and explore the beautiful Isle of Purbeck. View Full Details>> |
| Dane's Dyke | 1 miles (2 km) | These delightful little woods near Flamborough are perfect for a peaceful afternoon's stroll. The woods are located right next to the coast, just east of Sewerby Hall. In February you will find snowdrops covering the area, while in spring carpets of bluebells appear. The area is also a nature reserve so look out for wildlife including deer, squirrels and a variety of woodland birds. You can start your walk from the car park just off the Flamborough Road. From here you can pick up the nice woodland footpaths which will take you around the site, including a visit to the lovely beach. There's nice coastal views towards Bridlington from the cliff tops. The woods are located very close to Flamborough Head which is a great place for extending your walk. The splendid area includes towering white chalk cliffs, coves, caves, pretty bays and the oldest surviving lighthouse in Britain. Just up from Flamborough Head is the splendid Bempton Cliffs. The area is a RSPB Nature Reserve and considered the best place in England to watch seabirds. View Full Details>> |
| Dartmouth and the Dart Estuary | 6 miles (9 km) | Enjoy one of the finest areas of Devon on this waterside walk in Dartmouth. You'll visit the fascinating Dartmouth Castle before a coastal stretch to Warren Point and Little Dartmouth. The walk starts in the town centre and follows the South West Coast Path south along the river to Warfleet Creek where there is a stony beach and several small rockpools at low tide. Soon after you reach the 14th century Dartmouth Castle which has guarded the entrance to the Dart Estuary for centuries. For a fee you can explore the castle and grounds where there are nice woodland trails and fabulous views over the estuary. There's also the option to catch a ferry across the water where you can look out for the wide variety of water loving birds which visit the area. After leaving the castle you continue to Blackstone Point where you follow the coast path to Warren Point. You then head inland to Little Dartmouth before picking up the riverside path back into Dartmouth. If you would like to extend your walking in the Dartmouth area then you can catch the ferry to Kingswear and visit the splendid Coleton Fishacre Gardens. Continuing west along the coast path will take you to the beautiful beach at Blackpool Sands. You could also pick up the Dart Valley Trail and head north along the river to the little village of Dittisham. Here you can catch the Greenway Ferry and visit the wonderful Greenway Estate where Agatha Christie took her holidays. View Full Details>> |
| Dawlish Sea Wall | 2 miles (3 km) | Follow the sea wall from Dawlish to Dawlish Warren on this lovely coastal walk. The sea wall runs right alongside the train line with the beach on the other side. It's about a 2 mile walk on a very flat section of the South West Coast Path, so ideal for a nice easy afternoon stroll. The walk starts on the front in the seaside resort of Dawlish. The attractive town has a nice beach and a pretty park through which Dawlish Water flows. It's also known for its black swans, introduced from Western Australia, which live with other exotic waterfowl in a small urban sanctuary on Dawlish Water. The town is easily accessible with a train station on the Exeter to Plymouth line. The walk heads north east along the sea wall with views of the red sandstone cliffs which characterise the area. At the end of the walk you will find the Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve which is an excellent place for birdwatching on the Exe Estuary. Here you can look out for little egrets, herons, kingfishers, reed buntings and peregrines. The resort also has a number of nice cafes and restaurants for refreshments at the end of your walk. View Full Details>> |
| Dinas Head | 2 miles (4 km) | Enjoy stunning coastal views on this circular walk on the Pembrokeshire Coast. Dinas Island is actually a peninsula with a wonderful 466ft (142m) viewpoint at the high point known as Pen-y-fan. It's a steep climb but you are rewarded with wonderful views of Cardigan Bay, Fishguard Bay, Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula. View Full Details>> |
| Dodman Point | 2 miles (3.5 km) | This circular walk explores a wonderful headland on the Cornish coast. The area is located near the village of Gorran Haven and is the highest headland on the south coast of Cornwall. There's splendid coastal views, pretty beaches, lovely countryside and lots of wildlife to look out for. The walk starts from the Penare car park, about half a mile south of Dodman Point. From here you head west towards Hemmick Beach with wonderful views across Veryan Bay to the west. You then pick up the South West Coast Path to take you up to Dodman Point. Here you will find a large granite cross, placed here in 1896 as a navigational aid to seafarers. From the elevated headland there are fabulous views towards the Roseland Peninsula. Look out for wildlife including Dartmoor ponies, peregrine falcon, stonechat and gannet. The walk can also be started from the nearby village of Gorran Haven if you prefer. It's about a 2 mile walk from the village along the coast path to the point. It will take you past the lovely Vault Beach and the delightful Gorran Harbour. View Full Details>> |
| Donna Nook Nature Reserve | 10 miles (16 km) | This coastal nature reserve in Lincolnshire consists of dunes, slacks and inter-tidal areas. It's a great place for birdwatching with 47 species of birds to look out for. In November and December you can see the grey seal colony give birth to their pups near the sand dunes. View Full Details>> |
| Dover to Deal | 10 miles (15.5 km) | This coastal walk takes you from the famous port of Dover to the attractive town of Deal. It's about a 9.5 mile walk with the option of returning to Dover on the train. There's great cliff top views, a series of historic castles and a long stretch of lovely countryside with wildflowers and butterflies. The walk starts by the marina in Dover and heads towards the wonderful Dover Castle. It's the largest castle in England and includes the fascinating Secret Wartime Tunnels and interesting exhibitions. You climb past the castle and through the National Trust owned White Cliffs Country Park. There's a nice visitor centre here with information about the different trails you can try in the park. From the viewpoints there are great views of the famous Dover White Cliffs and the Dover Docks. After passing through the park you continue east to the Victorian South Foreland Lighthouse. You can climb to the top of the structure and enjoy great views over to France. There's also a nice cliff top cafe which is a great place to stop for refreshments. The route continues to St Margaret's Bay passing the delightful Pines Garden. The gardens include a waterfall, lake, a grass labyrinth and an organic kitchen garden with around 40 different species of fruit and vegetables. The site also includes the St. Margaret's Museum with interesting local history displays such as St Margaret's during WW2, and one-time resident Noel Coward. The route then descends to Kingsdown, passing along the beach and the golf course. Shortly after you come to the very fine Walmer Castle. It was built during the reign of King Henry VIII and includes lovely 8 acre gardens and fascinating exhibitions. The final section takes you into Deal, where you can enjoy a stroll along the pier. From here it is a short walk to the train station where you can return to Dover. There's great scope for extending your walk by following the White Cliffs Country Trails from Deal to Sandwich. Here there are nice views of the River Stour and lots of nice pubs to choose from. To head along the coast in the other direction try our Dover to Folkestone Walk which takes you between these two major ports. View Full Details>> |
| Dover to Folkestone | 7 miles (11 km) | This is a popular walk between these two major towns on the Kent coast. It's about a 7 mile walk, with some moderate climbs so a reasonable level of fitness is required. The walk takes you along cliff tops with great views and visits to the two country parks located on the route. You can return easily by catching the train back to Dover from Folkestone West railway station. The walk starts at the docks in Dover and follows the North Downs Way to the ruins of the medieval Knights Templar Church, on Bredenstone hill. You continue past Aycliff to Samphire Hoe Country Park. The park was created by using chalk marl from the Channel Tunnel excavations and is found at the bottom of a section of the White Cliffs of Dover. There are great views over the Strait of Dover and a Nature Reserve with a large variety of wildlife to look out for. You continue west, passing the World War II coastal defence battery of Lydden Spout before coming to East Cliff and Warren Country Park. This route crosses the train line here to follow the coastal path but you could also pick up the woodland trails through the park. The park is formed of the East Cliffs of Folkestone, the sandy beaches of East Wear Bay and the land-slipped nature reserve land between the cliffs and the sea. There are more great views, interesting flora and fauna and three old Martello Towers to see. These were built on the cliffs in the early 19th century to protect against the French invasion of Napoleon. The path continues along the coast, passing the Folkestone Roman Villa. The villa was built during the Roman Occupation of Britain, and is located in East Wear Bay. It's situated on a cliff top overlooking the English Channel, with views of the French coast at Boulogne on a clear day. The final section descends to Folkestone, finishing at the harbour. Just down the coast you can visit Lower Leas Coastal Park if you wish to extend the walk. It's a lovely park with pretty gardens and a free adventure play area. To travel along the coast in the other direction try the Dover to Deal Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Druridge Bay Country Park | 3 miles (5 km) | This beautiful country park on the Northumberland coast consists of three miles of beach and sand dunes, a large freshwater lake, peaceful woodland and meadows. The coastline is simply stunning with a lovely cycling and walking path running alongside the beach. You could continue your outing by following the coast north towards Amble with views of Coquet Island, or head south to Newbiggin-By-The-Sea. There are several nature reserves in the area so there are plenty of opportunities for bird watching too. View Full Details>> |
| Dungeness | 7 miles (11.5 km) | Explore this wonderful coastal nature reserve on this circular walk in Kent. The reserve contains a number of lakes and lagoons with several miles of good footpaths to follow around the expansive site. There's also coastal paths with great views of the sea and the long stretch of shingle beach. The reserve is superb for wildlife watching with lots of birds to look out for. Keep your eyes peeled for lapwings, smew, bittern and little ringed plover from one of the many bird hides. There's also over 600 different types of plant species. The RSPB site has good facilities with a car park and visitor centre. You can start the walk from the car park off Dungeness Road, about a mile east of Lydd. From here you can pick up the trails taking you around the lakes to the coast. The path then heads south along Broomhill Sands to the village of Lydd-on-Sea, the lifeboat station and the lighthouse. The route then follows path across Denge Beach back to the car park. On this section you pass the nuclear power stations which warm the water in the area attracting large numbers of birds. Also of intrest is the The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. The narrow gauge railway was built in 1927 and is a fun way to see the area. To extend your walk you can pick up the England Coast Path and follow it west to Camber Sands and Rye Harbour. Here you will find saltmarsh, lagoons, grazing marsh, shingle and reedbeds with a huge variety of flora and fauna. You can also head to the nearby New Romney and explore Romney Marsh. View Full Details>> |
| Dunster Castle | 8 miles (13 km) | Explore the parkland, woodland and Historic Deer Park surrounding this Norman Castle near Minehead. From the castle there are fabulous views towards the Bristol channel, the Quantock hills and Exmoor. View Full Details>> |
| Duntulm Castle | 1 miles (1 km) | Visit the fascinating ruins of this 14th century coastal castle and enjoy wonderful views of Tulm Bay on this walk in Trotternish. View Full Details>> |
| Durham Coastal Footpath | 11 miles (18 km) | This walk follows a beautiful section of the Durham heritage coast from Seaham to Crimdon Park, just outside Hartlepool. The path starts by Seaham harbour and heads south to Easington Colliery, passing Shippersea Bay and the lovely Hawthorn Dene on the way. This delightful reserve is run by the Durham Wildlife Trust and consists of woodland and limestone hay meadows. The path continues south, passing Horden and Peterlee with more stunning cliff top views. Around Peterlee you will pass the wonderful Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve. It is the largest area of semi-natural woodland in north-east England and a major highlight on the route. The last section of the walk then takes you to the finish point at Crimdon Park just north of Hartlepool. View Full Details>> |
| Erme Estuary | 5 miles (8.5 km) | This circular walk explores the beautiful estuary of the River Erme as it meets the English Channel in South Devon. The estuary is now designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with pretty beaches, coastal views and lots of wildlife. Look out for Egrets, curlew, oystercatchers and shelduck on your walk. The walk starts and finishes from the little village of Kingston, just to the east of the estuary. You then follow footpaths west to Furzedown Wood where woodland trails lead you to the coast. At this point you have the option of crossing the estuary at low tide and heading west towards Newton Ferrers, although you may well get your feet wet! This route heads south along the coast path, passing old lime kilns and Wonwell Beach on your way to Beacon Point. You continue east along the coast to Hoist Point and Westcombe Beach where you turn inland. The route then follows Wiscombe Lane back into Kingston. To extend your walk you could continue east along the South West Coast Path and head to Burgh Island at Bigbury on Sea. You can walk to the island at low tide or catch the sea tractor which is run by the island's hotel. Around here you can also pick up the Avon Estuary Walk which is a similar walk to this one. If you would like to explore the course of the river, then head north towards Ermington to pick up the Erme Plym Trail. View Full Details>> |
| Farne Islands | 1 miles (1 km) | The Farne Islands are located just 1.5 miles from the Northumberland Coast at Bamburgh. You can catch a boat from Seahouses harbour to Inner Farne, the largest of the islands. Here you can see colonies of grey seals and up to 37000 pairs of puffins. The islands attract many other seabirds including Guillemots, Razorbills, Sandwich Terns, Common Terns, Roseate Terns, Arctic Terns, Shags, Cormorants and Eider Ducks. There is a lovely walkway around Inner Farne taking you past the interesting buildings which date from the monastic period. These include the remains of the old Guest House, the Chapel of St Cuthbert with fine stained-glass windows and the Pele Tower. The islands are run by the National Trust so entry is free for members. To continue your walking in the area try the Seahouses to Bamburgh walk and visit the fascinating coastal castle. The long distance St Oswald's Way also passes the islands and is a great way to explore the Northumberland Coast AONB. View Full Details>> |
| Fife Coastal Path | 115 miles (185 km) | This walk runs along the attractive Fife coast from Kincardine Bridge to Newburgh. You'll pass through a series of delightful coastal towns and villages with lovely beaches, pretty harbours and interesting history. View Full Details>> |
| Filey Brigg Country Park | 2 miles (3 km) | This super country park is located on the coast at Filey in North Yorkshire. It is also known as North Cliff Country Park.
The elevated position of the park provides splendid views over Filey Bay and the town below. The walk also takes you along Filey Brigg - a long narrow peninsula with steep cliffs and lovely coastal views. The Cleveland Way and the Centenary Way walking routes run past the park so there is scope for continuing your walk along the coast to the nearby town of Scarborough. The Scarborough to Filey Walk gives more details on this stretch of coast which is one of the finest in the country. View Full Details>> |
| Filey to Bridlington Walk | 18 miles (29.5 km) | A splendid coastal walk from Filey to Bridlington on the East Yorkshire coast. There's wonderful cliff top views, miles of beaches, interesting rock formations and beautiful bays. The route also passes the wonderful Bempton Cliffs and Flamborough Head, two of the best places in the country for coastal wildlife. Starting on the sea front head south along Filey Bay and the Filey beaches towards Primrose Valley. You'll pass the lovely Hunmanby Sands before coming to the villages of Reighton and Speeton. The next stage through Bempton Cliffs is a real highlight of the walk. The RSPB Nature Reserve is considered the best place in England to watch seabirds. Look out for Puffins, Gannets, Kittiwakes, Guillemots and Razorbills as you make your way along the spectacular cliffs. After leaving Bempton Cliffs the trail continues south east towards Flamborough Head. Here you will find towering white chalk cliffs, coves, caves, pretty bays and the oldest surviving lighthouse in Britain. View Full Details>> |
| Flamborough Head | 7 miles (12 km) | Enjoy some spectacular coastal views on this circular walk along Flamborough Head in the North York Moors. On the walk you'll pass towering white chalk cliffs, coves, caves, pretty bays and the oldest surviving lighthouse in Britain. The area is also designated as a nature reserve so look out for large seabird colonies including auks, gannets and gulls. In summer you may also see fulmars, herring gulls, kittiwakes, guillemots, razorbills and puffins. In the Holmes area there are also interesting plants and flowers which attract a variety of butterflies. This walk starts at the village of Flamborough and picks up a footpath south to the coast. You then head along the coast passing Cross Bow Hill and a radio station beacon. You continue past Selwicks Bay to Thornwick Bay before returning to Flamborough via another countryside footpath. View Full Details>> |
| Foreland Point | 5 miles (8 km) | This walk visits Foreland Point Lighthouse before exploring Countisbury Common on the Exmoor coast. View Full Details>> |
| Formby Beach | 2 miles (4 km) | Explore the beaches, sand dunes and woodland in this beautiful nature reserve in Formby. The area is famous for its wildlife with the Natterjack Toad and the Red Squirrel the major highlights. The area is run by the National Trust so you will find a series of well laid out footpaths and waymarked trails. There is a squirrel trail through the lovely pine woodlands where you can look out for the growing population of red squirrels. There's also an asparagus trail where you can learn about Formby's asparagus heritage. This trail passes through farmland with Hebridean and Herdwick sheep. If you'd like to continue your walking in the area then you could pick up the Sefton Coastal Footpath which runs past the site. View Full Details>> |
| Fowey Hall Walk | 4 miles (6 km) | This popular circular walk in Fowey involves two ferry crossings and lovely waterside sections along Pont Pill and Fowey Quay. Along the way you'll enjoy wonderful views over Fowey Harbour, the River Fowey and the south coast. There's also pretty little quays, Cornish villages and splendid pubs for refreshments. The walk starts in Fowey, at the Fowey to Bodinnick Ferry. After catching the ferry to Bodinnick you pick up the footpath and head south to the 'Q' memorial. The route then runs east along the green waters of the tidal river of Pont Pill to the pretty hamlet of Pont. Here you cross a footbridge to the southern side of Pont Pill and head west to Polruan. At Polruan you catch the ferry back to Fowey and finish the walk with a stroll along the quay. View Full Details>> |
| Frinton to Walton Walk | 2 miles (3.5 km) | Enjoy a walk along the Essex Coast on this easy promenade walk between Frinton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze. The walk runs for about 2 miles on a nice flat path with views of the beach and sea. You can start off from the car park on the front at the Greensward in Frinton. Then head north along the path, passing all the little beach huts, the Clock Tower and the sea defence wall before finishing at Walton pier. View Full Details>> |
| Gara Point Yealm Estuary | 3 miles (5.5 km) | This circular coastal walk near Newton Ferrers visits Gara Point with wonderful views over the Yealm Estuary. The walk starts from the National Trust car park at Warren and follows the South West Coast Path to Gara Point, passing Blackstone Point SSI on the way. It's a lovely spot with wildflowers, green fields, gorse and wonderful views to Wembury Bay, Plymouth Sound and the Mewstone. From Gara Point you head towards Cellar Beach which you can visit by climbing down some steps. You then start a short woodland section through the Brakehill Plantation, a 19th-century woodland of ash, chestnut, sycamore, beech and oaks. You continue through more woodland towards Noss Mayo with great views over the Yealm River and Newton Ferrers. The final section heads inland through the countryside on a mixture of country lanes and footpaths, returning you to the car park. If you'd like to continue your walking in the area then you could head to the nearby Wembury Point. View Full Details>> |
| Giant's Causeway | 2 miles (3.5 km) | This spectacular coastal causeway in Northern Ireland has a unique polygonal landscape feature. View Full Details>> |
| Gibraltar Point | 4 miles (6 km) | Enjoy a walk around this beautiful coastal national nature reserve near Skegness. It's a lovely place for a peaceful stroll with numerous footpaths to follow through the sand, saltmarsh and dunes with several artificial lakes and bird hides along the way. There are lovely views of the Wash and the Lincolnshire coast and countryside. It's fantastic for bird watching with a variety of coastal birds to look out for. These include brent geese, shorelark, redwing and fieldfare. There's also an excellent visitor centre with a Wild Coast Exhibition that includes 3d models of sand dunes and salt marshes. The reserve is located just a few miles south of Skegness so you could easily walk there from the town. Parking is available at the reserve too though. View Full Details>> |
| Godrevy Head | 5 miles (8.5 km) | Explore Godrevy Head and enjoy wonderful views of St Ives Bay and the Cornish coast on this splendid coastal walk. The area is managed by the National Trust so there's good footpaths and facilities along this stretch of coast. Along the way there's pretty beaches, attractive countryside, heathland and a wide variety of wildlife to look out for. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals and basking sharks in the water below. You can start the walk from the Godrevy National Trust car park off Churchtown Road, near Gwithian Bridge. You then head north along the coast path towards Godrevy Point where there are splendid views towards Godrevy Island and its lighthouse. The path continues along the headland to Navrax Point, passing Kynance Cove on the way. The route then turns south passing the lovely heathland of The Knavocks where you should look out for ponies grazing. The final section passes Castle Giver Cove and Higher Pencobben before finishing at Hell's Mouth where you can watch hundreds of seabirds around the cliffs. View Full Details>> |
| Gower Way | 35 miles (56 km) | This walk takes you through the stunning Gower AONB from Penlle'r Castell in the north, to Rhossili on the Gower Peninsula, in the south. The route was inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1998 and takes you past a variety of impressive historical sites, including ancient cairns, standing stones and Norman chapels. The first section runs from Penlle'r Castell to Gowerton, passing the Lliw Reservoirs, before crossing the River Lliw a Gorseinon. The second section runs from Gowerton to Penmaen where you can enjoy splendid coastal views of Oxwich Bay. The final section runs from Penmaen to Rhossili, with a climb to the sandstone ridge of Cefn Bryn where there are more fabulous views of the Gower Peninsula. At Rhossili you can enjoy wonderful views over Rhossili Bay and Worm's Head. This unusual promontory, is shaped like a giant sea-serpent and marks the most westerly tip of Gower. It is possible to walk to Worm's Head but only when the tide is out so check tide times before if you intend to extend your walk here. The walk is waymarked with a black, green and yellow disc. View Full Details>> |
| Grange-over-Sands and Cartmel Circular | 14 miles (23 km) | This circular walk makes use of the Cumbria Coastal Way and Cistercian Way to take you on a tour of the area surrounding this lovely coastal town. View Full Details>> |
| Hadleigh Country Park | 3 miles (5.5 km) | This lovely park is located on the Thames Estuary near Southend on Sea. The park is nearly 400 acres in size and includes a mix of woodland, pasture, hay meadow and marsh. There are a number of great trails suitable for cyclists and walkers. There is also the 13th century Hadleigh castle ruins where there are fabulous views of the surrounding Essex countryside and the River Thames. The Saffron Trail passes through the park so you can pick this up to extend your walk. The long distance trail takes you from the coast at Southend-on-Sea to Saffron Walden through some lovely Essex countryside. Just to the east of the park you will find the Two Tree Island nature reserve. The expansive site has some nice footpaths taking you around grassland, scrub, reedbed and lagoons. If you head south from the park you can cross Benfleet Creek and pick up the coastal path around Canvey Island. View Full Details>> |
| Haematite Trail | 19 miles (31 km) | This is a circular walk around the town of Barrow in Furness in Cumbria. The walk explores the remains of the iron mining industry in the area. View Full Details>> |
| Hamford Water | 2 miles (2.5 km) | Follow the Naze wildlife trail on this walk in the Hamford Water National Nature Reserve. The area is an internationally important site for migrating birds and includes the famous fifty million year old cliffs made up of London clay. You can park at the Naze Centre on Hall Lane to pick up the nature trail. The centre is known as the gateway to Hamford Water, the most easterly peninsula in Essex. The trails lead north from the car park to the lake and John Weston nature reserve. It's a splendid place for wildlife watching with thousands of wildfowl to look out for. These include Dark Bellied Brent Geese, Sedge Warbler and Whitethroat. Also keep your eyes peeled for Common and Grey Seals in the less disturbed areas of Hamford Water. The site also includes the 18th century Naze Tower. The navigational tower, was constructed to assist ships on this stretch of coast. You can climb the 111-step spiral staircase to the top of the tower for splendid views of the surrounding coast countryside. Local cycle route 150 runs along the coast to the reserve from Walton-on-the-Naze train station. View Full Details>> |
| Hartland Point | 2 miles (2.5 km) | Visit Hartland Point on this circular walk on the beautiful Hartland Peninsula in Devon. It's a great place to get some sea air and admire the fantastic coastal views. The dramatic location is where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean. There's rocky cliffs and views of the wrecked ship MS Johanna which ran aground on the rocks below. It's also great for wildlife watching with skuas, terns and shearwaters to look out for. There's a car park close to the point near Blagdon Farm, West Titchberry. From here you can pick up the South West Coast Path to take you along Barley Bay towards the 19th century Hartland Point Lighthouse. The route then continues along Blagdon Cliff and Upright Cliff, before turning east and returning to the car park through the countryside. To extend your walk you can follow the South West Coast Path south and visit the delightful Hartland Quay. View Full Details>> |
| Hartland Quay | 4 miles (6 km) | This circular walk around the Hartland Peninsula takes in some beautiful coastal views, interesting rock formations, plunging waterfalls and the little village of Stoke. There are great views towards Lundy Island and a variety of sea birds to look out for along the way. The walk starts at the Hartland Quay car park and heads south along the coast passing Screda Point, St Catherine's Point, St Catherine's Tor and Speke's Mill. There are pretty streams, waterfalls and in the summer months various pretty plants suchs as yellow flag irises, foxgloves and campion. At Speke's Mill Mouth you head inland through the countryside to Lymebridge before turning north towards the village of Stoke. The village has a 14th century church and tea rooms where you can stop for refreshments. From Stoke it is a short walk back to the Hartland Quay car park although you could take a short detour to visit the fascinating Hartland Abbey. The 12th century abbey has lovely grounds and gardens with the Abbey River flowing through. To extend your walk you can follow the South West Coast Path north to Hartland Point where you will pass the 19th century lighthouse. View Full Details>> |
| Hayle Estuary | 2 miles (3 km) | Enjoy a walk or cycle around the beautiful Hayle Estuary RSPB reserve in Cornwall. A section of the South West Coast Path runs along the estuary from Hayle Harbour to Lelant. There's tremendous views of Porth Kidney Sands and a visit to Griggs Quay to enjoy. The route starts in Hayle near to the train station and harbour. You soon come to the delightful Carnsew Pool where there is a circular walking trail around the water. You continue towards Lelant Water and RSPB Ryan's Field. Here you will find a lagoon with little islands where you can look out for a variety of birds. The next section takes you past Griggs Quay to Lelant where you have the option of continuing to Porth Kidney Sands. The reserve is wonderful for bird watching with 18,000 birds including many wading birds, gulls and terns. Look out for teal, curlew, little egret and oystercatcher as you make your way around this stunning area. In Hayle you can also visit the Copperhouse Pool next to the harbour. There's a path along the Copperhouse Creek where you can get very close to the birds. View Full Details>> |
| Hayling Island | 10 miles (16 km) | Enjoy a coastal walk around the southern part of Hayling Island on this circular route. The walk visits Sinah Common, Ferry Point, South Hayling, Eaststoke Beach and the Sandy Point Nature Reserve. There's lovely views over Hayling Bay, sand dunes and a series of nice beaches to enjoy. Start the walk from the car park by the lake on Sinah Common. Follow the paths west past Sinah Lake to Ferry Point, the westernmost tip of Hayling Island. Here you can catch a passenger ferry to Eastney in Portsmouth. Elements of World War 2 gun batteries and pill boxes can be seen on the common and there are nice views to Portsdown Hill and Butser Hill from Ferry Point. The area also includes the Kench, a small bay which is also a designated nature reserve. View Full Details>> |
| Heddon Valley | 2 miles (3.5 km) | Enjoy an easy waterside walk through the beautiful Heddon Valley in Exmoor. The riverside footpath leads through woodland before the beautiful coast and cliffs of Heddon's mouth come in to view. The walk starts at the National Trust car park and heads north through Heddon's Mouth Wood to the coast through Heddon's mouth with its imposing cliffs. The point where the valley opens out to reveal the sea and cliffs is really lovely. The path then leads down to the pebble beach where you will find a 19th century lime kiln. The area is great for wildlife spotting. Look out for otters and various birds suchs as dippers, grey wagtails and herons. In summer the area is covered with yellow gorse flowers and heather. If you would like to extend your walking in the area then you could head east towards Trentishoe Down for views of the beautiful Elwill Bay. You could also climb the Hangman Hills for tremendous views over Combe Martin. If you head east you will find the lovely wooded cove at Woody Bay with a secluded pebble beach. View Full Details>> |
| Highcliffe Castle and Coast | 2 miles (3 km) | Explore the grounds of this 19th century Gothic Revival house and enjoy a walk along the splendid Highcliffe coast and cliffs. The castle is surrounded by attractive wide lawns and beautiful formal gardens. There are also nice woodland trails along the cliff top and a zig-zag path down to the beach. There's great views from the high points along the south coast towards Christchurch Bay and the Isle of Wight. The walk also visits the Steamer Point Nature Reserve just to the west of the castle. The reserve has some nice woodland trails and a variety of flora and fauna to look out for. Just to the east of the castle you'll find Chewton Bunny Nature Reserve. The wooded Chine has a trail leading to a pretty waterfall. To extend your walking in the area you can pick up the Bournemouth Coast Path. If you head west you'll come to Christchurch and the delightful Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve. Also nearby is Hengistbury Head and Mudeford with its lovely beaches and fabulous coastal views. Heading east along the coast path takes you to Barton-on-Sea and Milford on Sea where you can explore the wonderful Keyhaven Marshes. View Full Details>> |
| Holkham National Nature Reserve | 16 miles (26 km) | Explore 9,600 acres of grazing marsh, woodland, salt marsh, sand dunes and foreshore in England's largest Nature Reserve.
The walk begins at the delightful village of Burnham Overy Staithe, following Overy Creek to the beach at Holkham Bay. You continue east to Wells-Next-The-Sea, passing the pretty harbour on the way before reaching Stiffkey Salt Marsh where you will find a vast open expanse of salt marshes with large numbers of birdlife including waders and wintering wildfowl. You continue to Morston where you can catch a boat to Blakeney Point Nature Reserve with its colonies of seals. The final stretch takes you through Blakeney to Cley-Next-The-Sea and the Cley Marshes Nature Reserve. This 430 acre reserve contains reed beds, freshwater marsh, pools and wet meadows. Holkham Nature Reserve really is a special place with its wonderful mixture of habitats. You will pass through a maze of creeks and saltings, dunes and sandspits, woodland, green pastures and grazing marshes. There is also a huge variety of wildlife to see with pink-footed geese, white-fronted geese, brent geese, wigeon and waders regular visitors to the reserve. To continue your wildlife watching in North Norfolk you could head to the splendid Pensthorpe Natural Park near Fakenham. It has several lakes and woodland trails with various wildfowl and red squirrels to look out for. View Full Details>> |
| Holnicote Estate | 3 miles (5 km) | This walk visits Selworthy Beacon and Bury castle in the splendid Holnicote Estate in Somerset. You start off in the village of Selworthy next to the church, and head to the nearby Bury Castle where you will find an Iron Age enclosure dating back to 400 B.C. You then climb to the 308 metres (1,010 ft) high Selworthy Beacon where there are marvellous views across Exmoor and the Somerset coast. It is one of the highest points in the Exmoor National Park along with Dunkery Beacon. From the high point you descend on Folly Combe, returning to the church soon after. If you would like to continue your walking in the area you could head to the nearby Dunkery Beacon. It is the highest point in Exmoor and consists of a beautiful nature reserve with woodland walks. You could also pick up the South West Coast Path and head west along this lovely stretch of coastline towards Bossington Hill and Porlock or east toward Minehead. View Full Details>> |
| Hoo Peninsula Path | 19 miles (30 km) | Explore the special scenery of the Hoo Peninsula on this waterside walk in Kent. The path runs along the River Thames estuary with a huge number of wading birds to look out for on the way. It runs for about 18 miles from Gravesend in the west, to the village of Allhallows at the eastern end of the path. On the way you'll pass a series of pretty bays, Cliffe Pools Nature Reserve, Blyth Sands, Halstow Marshes and St Mary's Marshes. The scenery is varied with grazing marsh, intertidal mudflats, saltmarsh and lagoons. To explore the area by bike you can follow the Heron Trail cycle route across the peninsula. Walkers can follow the Saxon Shore Way long distance path. This walk passes the splendid Cliffe Pools nature reserve which is well worth exploring further. It's an RSPB site with a number of lagoons and birds such as lapwings, redshanks, warblers, corn and reed buntings, linnets, stonechats and skylarks to look out for. View Full Details>> |
| Hope Cove to Salcombe | 8 miles (12.5 km) | A splendid coastal walk from the little village of Hope Cove to Salcombe on the South West Coast Path. It's a lovely section of the path with visits to the headlands of Bolt Head and Bolt Tail. You'll also pass through the National Trust owned Bolberry Down with its pretty gorse, wildflowers and stunning views. The route is about 8 miles with come moderate climbs along the cliffs, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. You could turn it into a longer circular walk by following inland coutry lanes around Malborough. The walk starts on the sea front at Hope Cove and follows the path round to Bolt Tail. The headland is the site of an Iron Age promontory fort and commands fabulous views down the coast into Cornwall. The path continues east to Bolberry Down where there are some nice footpaths through some lovely coastal scenery and great views to Burgh Island and Bigbury on Sea. The next section takes you past the secluded beach at Soar Mill Cove to Bolt Head. This area is great for wildlife with Dartmoor Ponies grazing on the cliffs. You can also see coastal birds including Fulmar, Shag, and Cormorants. The path then descends from Bolt Head into Salcombe, passing the pretty beaches and Salcombe Castle. You also pass Tor Woods on your left, where you can sometimes see Sika Deer. To extend your walking in the area you can visit the beautiful Kingsbridge Estuary. View Full Details>> |
| Hurst Castle Spit | 4 miles (7 km) | Walk along this long shingle spit to one of Henry VIII's Device Forts on this lovely coastal walk in Hampshire. The walk starts at Keyhaven in between The walk starts at Keyhaven in between Lymington and Milford on Sea. You follow the shingle spit for about 1.5 miles out to the castle where there are splendid views of the nearby Isle of Wight and the south coast. The striking coastal structure is an artillery fort established by Henry VIII between 1541 and 1544. It formed part of the king's Device Forts coastal protection programme against invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire, and defended the western entrance to the Solent waterway. English Heritage own the site so you can explore the castle for a reasonable fee. There's interesting exhibitions around the castle which provide you with a chance to piece together Hurst Castle's long history. Highlights include spectacular views from the roof of the Tudor keep across The Needles Passage to the Isle of Wight. The Keep is also notable as the place where Charles I was probably kept prisoner in 1648. View Full Details>> |
| Ilfracombe to Woolacombe Coastal Walk | 8 miles (12.8 km) | The coast path between Ilfracombe and Woolacombe runs for about 8 miles along a series of dramatic cliffs, beautiful bays and lovely beaches. The walk starts on the front in Ilfracombe and climbs to Capstone Point and Capstone Hill. It's a fairly challenging start to the walk but with great views across the town and harbour as your reward. View Full Details>> |
| Isle of Portland | 8 miles (13 km) | Follow the Portland Coast Path around the Isle of Portland on this wonderful coastal circular walk in Dorset. View Full Details>> |
| Jurassic Coast | 110 miles (177 km) | Walk the entire length of the spectacular Jurassic Coast on this epic route in south west England. The UNESCO World Heritage Site runs for 95 miles from Exmouth in Devon to Old Harry Rocks in Dorset. The walk uses a section of the South West Coast Path visiting a series of pretty villages and beautiful beaches with fascinating geological rock formations along the way. The walk starts in Exmouth and heads east along the River Exe Estuary to Orcombe Point and the lovely Sandy Bay. The next stage takes you to Budleigh Salterton, where you head through the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, before turning north to Sidmouth. From here you head to Seaton, passing a very popular section of the path from Branscombe to Beer. Around here there are some fantastic cliff tops including the stunning Hooken Cliffs, a Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site. At Seaton you pick up the Undercliff Walk to take you to Lyme Regis. You'll pass through the Undercliff National Nature Reserve where there is a wide variety of interesting flora and fauna to look out for. The stretch of coast is of high geological significance containing rocks from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. It's also botanically diverse with species rich chalk grassland, holm oak, rhododendron, orchids and laurel. The next section takes you from Lyme Regis to Golden Cap, passing the pretty village of Charmouth on the way. This section is popular with fossil hunters and includes the Charmouth Heritage Centre where you can see fossil collections and learn all about the geology of the Jurassic Coast. The Golden Cap Estate is another major highlight of the route with a high point standing at a height of 191 metres (627 ft), providing spectacular coastal views. The estate also includes some lovely woodland trails and a wide variety of flora and fauna to look out for. You continue past Bridport to Burton Bradstock where you reach the western end of Chesil Beach. The unusal pebble beach runs for 18 miles with a series of beautiful lagoons on one side and the sea on the other. You'll pass Abbotsbury, before coming to Weymouth where there are fine views of the Isle of Portland. From Weymouth you continue past the Osmington White Horse to another route highlight at Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Here you find two of the Jurassic Coast's most spectacular natural features. At Lulworth you can enjoy views of a beautiful sheltered bay enclosed almost in a circle and formed 10,000 years ago by the combined forces of a river and the sea. Next to the cove you will pass the West Lulworth Heritage Centre which contains a museum about the coast and the village. Near the cove the route passes Durdle Door, a spectacular natural limestone arch with an adjacent beach and caves. The next stage takes you to the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve at Kimmeridge where you pick up the Kimmeridge Bay to Chapman's Pool Walk. In the marine reserve you can explore the beach where there are a number of rock-pools with a variety of marine wildlife. Chapman's Pool is another photogenic spot with a delightful cove just to the west of Worth Matravers on the Isle of Purbeck. The route continues to the popular seaside resort of Swanage where you will pass the lovely Durlston Country Park. From here it's just a few miles to the finish point at Old Harry Rocks. View Full Details>> |
| Kent Coast | 207 miles (333 km) | Walk the entirety of the beautiful Kent Coast on this long distance walk. View Full Details>> |
| Kilve Beach and East Quantoxhead | 3 miles (5.5 km) | This circular walk explores a beautiful area of coast and countryside in the Quantocks. View Full Details>> |
| Kimmeridge Bay to Chapmans Pool | 9 miles (14 km) | This circular walk takes you along the South West Coast Path to two noteable highlights on the Jurassic Coast. The beautiful Kimmeridge Bay is part of the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve. On the beach you will find a number of rock-pools where you can look out for a variety of marine wildlife. From here you can head east along the South West Coast Path to the lovely Chapman's Pool. The walk passes Clavell Tower and Egmont Point where there is a pretty waterfall. From Chapman's Pool the return leg climbs through the countryside above Kimmeridge. You'll pass Smedmore Hill and Swyre Head before returning to Kimmeridge. The views on this elevated section of the coast and countryside are simply stunning. View Full Details>> |
| Kintyre Way | 89 miles (144 km) | This walk runs from Tarbert at the north end of the Kintyre peninsula, to Dunaverty in the south. View Full Details>> |
| Knott End | 3 miles (5.5 km) | Enjoy a circular coastal walk around this pretty village in Lancashire. In the summer months you can catch the Knott End Ferry from Fleetwood to Knott End on Sea. It's a lovely spot with nice views over the estuary of the River Wyre and Morecambe Bay. There's also lots of pretty cottages and coastal wildlife to look out for. Starting from the ferry terminal you can follow waymarked footpaths south along the Wyre Way before crossing the golf course and returning to the village. On the eastern side of the golf course you can also visit the village of Preesall. After your walk there are nice cafes and a pub where you can enjoy refreshments. To continue your walking in the area you can pick up the Lancashire Coastal Way and head east towards Pilling. Heading west past Fleetwood will take you around the coast to Cleveleys and Blackpool. On the other side of the river you will find the pretty Wyre Estuary Country Park which has more nice footpaths and views. View Full Details>> |
| Lancashire Coastal Way | 65 miles (105 km) | Travel along the beautiful Lancashire coast from Silverdale to Freckleton on this fairly easy walk. You start off at Silverdale and head south to Morecambe Bay passing Warton and Bolton le Sands. At Morecambe you'll pass the Eric Morecambe statue with great views over the bay towards the Lake District. There's also a great deal of coastal wildlife to look out for including Cormorants, Curlews, Lapwings and Oystercatchers. The area includes Hest Bank and is a RSPB reserve with sandflats and saltmarshes that attract thousands of birds. As such it is considered the second most important estuary in the UK. From Morecambe you head inland towards Lancaster and along the River Lune to Glasson Dock. The next section takes you to along Cockerham Sands to Knott End on Sea where you catch the ferry to Fleetwood and continue south towards the world famous seaside resort of Blackpool with the iconic tower and pleasure beach. The final section runs through the pretty resort of Lytham St Annes with Fairhaven Lake at Ansdell, views over the Ribble Estuary and the landmark windmill on Lytham front the highlights. View Full Details>> |
| Laugharne | 2 miles (3.5 km) | This lovely, coastal circular walk around Laugharne visits Laugharne Castle and the Dylan Thomas Boathouse. The delightful Carmarthenshire town lies on the estuary of the River Taf. It is well known for having been the home of the author Dylan Thomas from 1949 until his death in 1953. It is thought to have been the inspiration for the fictional town of Llareggub in his famous play 'Under Milk Wood'. You can start the walk from car park in the town. It is a short stroll from here to the castle, which is in a great position overlooking the estuary. The castle was originally established in 1116 and then rebuilt as a Norman stronghold in 1215. It later became a Tudor fortified manor house in the sixteenth century. The two robust round towers date from the rebuilding work done in the late thirteenth century, however. The site is a scheduled ancient monument and Grade I listed building, described as being 'amongst the most substantial castle remain in Wales'. After exploring the castle the route continues a short distance to the north where you will find the Dylan Thomas boathouse. The house is very photogenic, being set in a cliff overlooking the estuary. It was at this house that he wrote many major pieces including part of 'Under Milk Wood'. The house now serves as a museum which is open to the public for most of the year. It contains various memorabilia and some of the original furniture, including Dylan's father's desk. Items on show include a bust of Dylan Thomas, formerly owned by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, a letter from former US President Jimmy Carter, and a 1936 photograph of Thomas, notable for having been taken into space on board the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1998. Also close to the main house is a reconstruction of the 'writing shed' where Thomas spent much of his time. The route then continues along the coastal footpath where you can look out for a variety of wildlife on the estuary. The mud flats are rich in wildlife with all kinds of visiting wading birds, fish and seals and the occasional peregrine falcon. The route then returns to the town on an inland public footpath to create a circular walk. View Full Details>> |
| Lawrenny Quay and the Daugleddau River | 3 miles (5 km) | Enjoy woodland trails and riverside paths on this walk in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Although most of the park lies on or near the coast this area is unusual in that it lies several miles inland. The little village of Lawrenny lies on a peninsula of the Cleddau estuary. The walk starts from the pretty Lawrenny Quay where this is a yacht club, pub and the popular tea rooms. The walk then picks up the Landsker Borderlands Trail and passes through Lawrenny Wood with views of the Daugleddau River. There are also nice glimpses through the trees to Benton Castle on the other side of the river. You continue along the Daugleddau to Garron Pill where you can either head south to Lawrenny village or you can just return the same way. At the end of your walk you can reward yourself with food and drink at the splendid Lawrenny Quayside where you can sit outside and enjoy great views of the river. If you would like to continue your walk then you could head east along the Cresswell River to Cresswell Quay, using the Landsker Borderlands Trail. Carew Castle is also nearby, just a few miles south of Cresswell Quay. View Full Details>> |
| Leysdown Coastal Park | 6 miles (9 km) | Enjoy fabulous views of the Thames Estuary on this circular walk through Leysdon Coastal park and Leysdon Marshes on the Isle of Sheppey. For cyclists please see the Isle of Harty Trail which also runs through the park. View Full Details>> |
| Lindisfarne Castle and Holy Island | 4 miles (6 km) | This is an atmospheric circular walk around the fascinating Holy Island in Northumberland. View Full Details>> |
| Lizard Point to Kynance Cove | 9 miles (14 km) | This circular walk takes you from Lizard Point to Kynance Cove and then visits the Lizard National Nature Reserve and the little village of Cadgwith on the Cornish Coast. There's some truly spectacular coastal scenery with stunning coves, beautiful beaches, turquoise seas and imposing cliffs. You start off at the Lizard Point car park and head around Lizard Point, the most southerly place in Britain. It's a beautiful and unique area with interesting geological formations and a variety of flora and fauna. The walk continues north to Kynance Cove via Crane Ledges and Pentreath Beach. Kynance Cove has spectacular cliffs, stacks, arches and islands of serpentine rock while the beach is considered one the most beautiful in the world. The area is also covered with attractive heathland and a variety of rare coastal plants. From Kynance Cove you head inland across the Lizard National Nature Reserve and Lizard Downs to Cadgwith. The tiny fishing village is very picturesque with thatched cottages and a pretty stream trickling over the sand and shingle beach. At Cadgwith you pick up the coast path again to take you back to the car park. On this final section you pass interesting geological features such as Whale Rock and the Devil's Frying Pan. The latter was formed from the collapsed roof of a sea cave with a remaining arch of rock. The walk is also great for wildlife spotting. Look out for grey seals in the water and the Cornish Chough in the air. The walk can be extended by continuing along the South West Coast Path to Mullion Cove, north of Kynance Cove. View Full Details>> |
| Llanddwyn Island | 4 miles (6 km) | This walk explores Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn) on the Isle of Anglesey. The small tidal island is a stunningly beautiful location with rolling dunes, rocky outcrops, sandy beaches, lovely bays and the atmospheric ruins of St Dwynwen's Church. You can park at the Newborough Warren car park just to the north east of the island. Then follow the woodland trails through Newborough Forest to reach the island. Footpaths then head south toward the Twr Mawr lighthouse which marks the western entrance to the Menai Strait. The noteworthy structure is similar in style to the Anglesey windmills and stands at a height of 33 feet (10 m). From here there are fabulous views to Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula. The island is attached to Newborough Forest where you can extend your walk if you have time. The large coastal forest forms part of the Newborough Warrent Nature Reserve where you can look out for wildlife including oystercatchers, lapwings, curlew, skylarks and meadow pipits. The long distance Anglesey Coast Path also passes the island. You can follow the trail north and visit the lovely Malltraeth Sands and the Afon Cefni on the Lon Las Cefni Cycle Trail. Following the path east will take you along the Menai Strait to Menai Bridge. View Full Details>> |
| Llandudno to Conwy | 8 miles (13.5 km) | This route takes you along a fine section of the North Wales Coast Path from Llandudno to Conwy. There's much to enjoy with a visit to the splendid Great Orme and a stretch along the beautiful Conwy Sands. The walk starts on the promenade in Llandudno, next to the impressive pier. You then follow the coast path round the wonderful limestone headland of Great Orme. On the western side of Llandudno you will come to Conwy Sands with its lovely dunes and views across Conwy Bay. The path continues past the small town of Deganwy with its attractive Quay and the dark age fortress of Deganwy Castle. Just south of here you have the option of visiting the lovely Conwy RSPB reserve. It's slightly off the route but well worth a visit if you have time. The site includes grassland, scrubland, reedbeds, salt marsh and mudflats. You can look out for hundreds of bird species such as lapwing, little ringed plover, skylark and reed warbler. This route crosses the Conwy Suspension Bridge over the River Conwy to take you into the town. Here you can visit the medieval Conwy Castle. It was built by Edward I, during his conquest of Wales, between 1283 and 1289. For a fee you can explore the fine structure and climb the battlements for breathtaking views across mountains and sea. View Full Details>> |
| Llyn Coastal Path | 81 miles (130 km) | Follow the Llyn Peninsula from Caernarfon to Porthmadog on this stunning coastal walk. The route is often completed in 7 sections: Caernarfon to Trefor Trefor to Morfa Nefyn Morfa Nefyn to Llangwnnadl Llangwnnadl to Aberdaron via the fine beaches and viewpoints at Whistling Sands and Porth Iago Aberdaron to Abersoch Abersoch to Pwllheli Pwllheli to Porthmadog As well as the stunning scenery you can look out for bottle-nosed dolphins and Atlantic grey seals as these are often seen off the coast. Near Trefor you can enjoy wonderful views of the three peaks of Yr Eifl and the fascinating hill fort at Tre'r Ceiri. There's also a visit to the historically significant castle in Criccieth. View Full Details>> |
| Looe to Polperro | 5 miles (8.5 km) | This is a popular walk between these two Cornish coastal villages. It follows the South West Coast Path for just over 5 miles with stunning views all the way. The walk starts in East Looe near the tourist information centre. The town has a lovely beach, pier, pretty harbour and picturesque Cornish cottages. After passing through East Looe you cross the bridge over the Looe Estuary into West Looe and follow the coast round to Hannafore (you can see some of this section on the google street view link below). There's great views of Looe Bay and towards the idyllic Looe Island on this section of the walk. From Hannafore you continue to Talland, passing Samphire Beach and Portnadler Bay. At Talland Bay you will find two nice shingle beaches called Talland Sand and Rotterdam Beach. There is also a church dating from the 15th century and a cafe where you stop for refreshments. The final section takes you from Talland to Polperro, passing the memorial at Downend Point and Chapel Cliff. The town has a lovely harbour and rows of ancient fishermen's cottages to admire. View Full Details>> |
| Lorna Doone Walk | 5 miles (8.8 km) | Explore Exmoor's beautiful Doone Valley on this fine literary walk. View Full Details>> |
| Lower Leas Coastal Park | 2 miles (4 km) | This coastal country park is located in Folkestone and has fabulous views over the Kent coastline. National Cycle Route 2 also runs through the park. The park is divided into three zones. These include a formal zone with lovely gardens and pine avenues. The fun zone includes a free adventure play area and an amphitheatre. Finally, there's the wild zone with lots of interesting flora and fauna to look out for. It's a delightful place with imposing cliffs, interesting rock formations, wildflower meadows and lots in intersting plants and flowers. View Full Details>> |
| Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door | 4 miles (6.5 km) | Take in two of the Jurassic Coast's most spectacular natural features on this short walk in Dorset. The walk starts at the picturesque village of West Lulworth where you will find rows of pretty cottages and the Castle Inn - one of the oldest pubs in Dorset dating from the 16th Century. The trail then takes you to the coast and the beautiful Lulworth Cove. This sheltered bay is enclosed almost in a circle and was formed 10,000 years ago by the combined forces of a river and the sea. Next to the cove you will pass the West Lulworth Heritage Centre which contains a museum about the coast and the village. From the cove you follow the South West Coast Path west towards Durdle Door. This spectacular natural limestone arch also has an adjacent beach and caves. The walk then takes you back to West Lulworth along countryside walking trails. There is ample parking at Lulworth Cove. If you are coming by public transport you could get the train to Wool and then a connecting bus to the cove. The walk can be extended by heading a few miles west and visiting the beautiful Ringstead Bay and Osmington Mills on the longer Lulworth Cove to Osmington Mills Coastal Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Lulworth Range Walks | 4 miles (6 km) | This circular walk in Dorset visits the deserted village of Tyneham before heading along the coast at Brandy Bay and Worbarrow Bay. It is part of the Lulworth Range Walks in the Purbeck Hills near Kimmeridge Bay. The range walks are open most weekends but check the website below for more details. The walk starts from the car park in Tyneham Village with its interesting ruined buildings. You then head to the South West Coast Path where there are lovely views along the coast to Brandy Bay, Horbarrow Bay and Kimmeridge Bay. The route continues west along the coast to Worbarrow Tout and the beautiful Worbarrow Bay. A climb to the Iron Age Hill Fort at Flower Barrow is quite challenging but you are rewarded with more magnificent coastal views. The route continues to Whiteway Hill before descending back into Tyneham. The area is owned by the military and while this restricts access it does encourage a wide variety of interesting flora and fauna. Look out for rare flowers, fungi and insects as you make your way through this lovely area. The walk can easily be extended by heading east to the nearby Povington Hill (191 m) and the range's highest point, Ridgeway Hill (199 m). Here you will find the pretty Stonehill Downs Nature Reserve where there is a variety of birdlife to look out for. View Full Details>> |
| Lyme Regis to Charmouth | 4 miles (7 km) | Follow the coastal path from Lyme Regis to Charmouth on this popular walk in West Dorset. This circular walk follows the South West Coast Path from the centre of Lyme Regis to the pretty village of Charmouth before returning along the beach. You start the walk in Lyme Regis and climb towards the golf course above Timber Hill. The path crosses the golf course and the woodland on Fern Hill before descending to Charmouth. After exploring the village you then pass along the beach to return to Lyme Regis. You'll pass the striking cliffs at Black Ven and the Spittles which are a well known fossil hunting spot. Please note it's wise to check the tide times before walking back along the beach. The tide should be going out before you start the return leg. If it is coming in then return on the same path above the towns. View Full Details>> |
| Lyme Regis to Seaton Undercliff Walk | 7 miles (11.5 km) | Travel from Dorset into Devon on this popular walk through the Undercliff National Nature Reserve. The reserve is one of the highlights on the Jurassic Coast with a wide variety of flora and fauna to look out for. View Full Details>> |
| Lynton and Lynmouth | 7 miles (11 km) | The town of Lynton and village of Lynmouth sit side by side on the Exmoor coast in north Devon. It's a splendid place for walkers with a number of long distance trails passing through the beautiful area. As well as the wonderful coastal views there's also nice woodland trails and riverside paths along the East Lyn River. This 7 mile circular walk visits some of the highlights of the area using waymarked trails on good paths. Starting in the centre of Lynton you first follow a section of the South West Coast Path east towards the picturesque harbour village of Lynmouth. The path descends to the village which sits at the confluence of the West Lyn and East Lyn rivers, in a gorge 700 feet (210 m) below Lynton. You continue towards Countisbury where you can climb to Foreland Point Lighthouse at the most northerly point along the Devon and Exmoor coast. From here there are great views across the Bristol Channel to the Welsh coast. The route then descends back to the hamlet of Countisbury before coming to Watersmeet. The delightful area includes 2000 acres of river gorge and woodland with the opportunity for refreshments at the riverside tea garden at Watersmeet House. The walk then follows a section of the Tarka Trail back to Lynton. There's lots of good options for continuing your walking in the area. One of the highlights is the climb to the Valley of the Rocks. This dry valley contains the geological marvels known as the Lynton Beds. You could follow the South West Coast Path east and visit Culbone Wood and the delightful village of Porlock Weir. You could also follow the Two Moors Way and Tarka Trail south to the Cheriton Ridge in the Exmoor National Park. The Samaritans Way South West also passes through the area. View Full Details>> |
| Margate to Broadstairs Coastal Walk | 6 miles (9 km) | This walk follows a section of the Thanet Coastal Path between these two major Kent towns. You'll pass a number of pretty beaches and bays including the popular Botany Bay. It's also an area with connections to Charles Dickens, with the walk passing Bleak House, the former home of the famous 19th century author. The walk is fairly easy going with most of the route taking place on flat, waymarked footpaths. The walk starts in Margate near to the train station. You head east along the beach passing the noteworthy Turner Contemporary Gallery. It is situated on the seafront, on the same site as the boarding house where J. M. W. Turner stayed when visiting the town. View Full Details>> |
| Marloes Sands | 2 miles (3 km) | This short circular walk visits the beautiful Marloes Peninsula on the Pembrokeshire Coast. The National Trust managed area also includes Marloes Mere and the lovely beaches of Marloes Sands. There's great views towards Gateholme Island and Skomer Island with attractive coastal vegetation including heather and gorse. There's also lots of interesting wildlife with Welsh Mountain ponies, various sea birds and seal pups to look out for. The walk starts from the National Trust car park just to the west of Marloes village. From here you can pick up the footpath heading west past the pretty mere, where you can look out for various birds from the hide. The path continues to the coast where you pick up the coast path to Marloes Sands. After passing along the sands you can pick up another path to take you back through the countryside to the car park. The sands are on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path so you can easily extend your walk by picking up the trail. Heading north west will take you past a series of pretty bays to Martin's Haven. Here you can catch a boat to Skomer Island where you can look out for a huge variety of wildlife including Puffins, Manx Shearwaters, Dolphins, Harbour Porpoises, Razorbills, Gannets and Fulmars. Head a short distance to the east and you will soon come to the lovely Dale Peninsula where you can visit St Ann's lighthouse and Dale Fort. View Full Details>> |
| Marwick Head | 3 miles (5 km) | This RSPB Nature Reserve has some splendid coastal scenery and the largest cliff-nesting seabird colony on Orkney Mainland. Walk along the red sandstone cliffs and look out for up to 25,000 breeding seabirds. The walk also visits The Kitchener Memorial which commemorates Lord Kitchener and the crew of HMS Hampshire, which struck a mine and sank nearby on 5 June 1916. Parking is available at route start at the Marwick Bay car park. If you would like to continue your walk then the Brough of Birsay is just a mile or so up the coast from Marwick Head. View Full Details>> |
| Mersea Island | 13 miles (21 km) | Explore the coastline of the most easterly inhabited island in the United Kingdom island on this circular walk near Colchester. The route takes you along the coastline visiting beaches, Cudmore Grove Country Park and the settlements of West Mersea and East Mersea. Look out for wildlife including Marsh harriers, watervoles, red squirrels, and numerous wintering birds. View Full Details>> |
| Millennium Coastal Park Llanelli | 14 miles (22 km) | This fabulous country park in Carmarthenshire has miles of coastal cycling and walking paths to enjoy. You can follow National Cycle Route 4 along a super traffic free path which passes along the beautiful Loughor estuary and the Gower peninsula. The route takes you past Llanelli beach and Tywyn beach to Burry Port where you will find a pretty harbour, beach and the newest marina in Wales. You then head back east passing Sandy Water Park and Machynys beach before coming to the National Wetlands Centre where you can look out for a variety of birdlife. Look out for flocks of dunlin, ringed plover, sanderling and redshank along the coast whilst shelduck, oystercatcher and curlew can be seen further out on the mudflats. Other highlights in the park include the excellent Discovery Centre where you will find a wealth of information about the area in a fabulous modern building. If you would like to continue your outing you could head west along the coast to the fabulous Pembrey Country Park where you will find more lovely coastal scenery, woodland wildlife trails and bike hire from the Ski Pembrey centre. View Full Details>> |
| Mineral Tramways Trail | 14 miles (23 km) | Also known as the Bissoe Trail, this is a fabulous, largely traffic free ride or walk, from Portreath to Devoran. The Mineral Tramways Coast to Coast trail takes you on a tour of some of Cornwall's historic mine buildings. The trail runs for about 14 miles along a path which steadily climbs to Wheal Busy before descending to Devoran. The path starts on the coast at Portreath and heads through Wheal Rose, Todpool and Bissoe to Devoran. As well as the series of restored mines you will pass the beautiful Bissoe Valley Nature Reserve. The reserve was a former mine site and has heathland, woodland, ponds and variety of widlife. View Full Details>> |
| Moray Coast Trail | 44 miles (71 km) | Explore the beautiful Moray Coast on this delightful trail. The route runs from Forres to Cullen and includes beaches, coastal paths, quiet roads and old railways. View Full Details>> |
| Morecambe Bay | 12 miles (19 km) | Enjoy a visit to the Morecambe Bay Nature Reserve and a stroll along the Lancaster Canal on this circular cycle or walk in Lancashire. The walk starts in the town centre of Morecambe near to the train station. You then pick up the Lancashire Coastal Way to take you along the promenade towards Hest Bank and Bolton-le-Sands. You'll pass the Eric Morecambe statue with great views over the bay towards the Lake District. There's also a great deal of coastal wildlife to look out for including Cormorants, Curlews, Lapwings and Oystercatchers. The area is a RSPB reserve with sandflats and saltmarshes that attract thousands of birds. As such it is considered the second most important estuary in the UK. From Hest Bank you turn inland and follow the Lancaster Canal into Lancaster before another waterside sectoin along the River Lune. A shared footpath and cycleway then returns you to Morecambe though White Lund. To continue your walking in the area you can head along the Lancashire Coastal Way to Bolton le Sands and Carnforth. You can also head south of Heysham and visit the delightful Sunderland Point. It's a lovely place for a walk with coastal views, salt marsh, beach, mud flats, farmland and lots of wildlife to look out for. There's also a series of attractive Georgian houses by the quay. View Full Details>> |
| Mortehoe Circular | 5 miles (7.5 km) | This circular walk from Mortehoe visits Morte Point, Rockham Bay and Bull Point on the North Devon Coast. It's a lovely section of Exmoor coast with dramatic cliffs, beautiful countryside and pretty beaches. The area is managed by the National Trust so there are good footpaths and facilities in the area. The walk starts from the village of Mortehoe where there is a village car park. You follow a footpath through the countryside to Morte Point where there are some fascinating rock formations and great views towards Lundy Island. You then head east along the coast path to Bull Point, passing the lovely Rockham Bay and beach on the way. You should see lots of pretty wildlflowers in the summer along this stretch. Just after Bull Point you pick up an inland footpath which takes you back to the village. Here you can enjoy refreshments at the Smuggler's Rest pub. You could also visit the Mortehoe Musuem and learn about the interesting history of smuggling and shipwrecks in the area. View Full Details>> |
| Mumbles Circular | 3 miles (5.5 km) | This circular walk takes you around the Mumbles headland on the western edge of Swansea Bay, just south of Swansea. It starts by the bus station and information centre near Oystermouth Castle. It's well worth exploring the ruins of the 12 century Norman Castle before starting the coastal walk. There are lovely views over the bay from the castle grounds. You head along the coast to Mumbles Head where there is a lifeboat station and a nice long pier to stroll out on. From here there are great views out to Mumbles Head and the lighthouse. You continue along the coast, passing Bracelet Bay and Limeslade Bay before heading to the lovely Langland Bay. There's a nice beach here and great views down the Gower coast. If you'd like to extend your walk you could continue along the Gower coast on our Mumbles to Langland and Caswell Bay Walk where you'll visit a lovely beach popular with tourists and surgers. Just beyond Caswell Bay there's the delightful Bishopston Valley and the beautiful secluded beach at Pwll Du Bay. View Full Details>> |
| Muncaster Castle | 2 miles (4 km) | Enjoy an easy stroll around the beautiful grounds and gardens of this Grade I listed building in Ravenglass. There are 77 acres of beautiful gardens to explore and over 6 miles of walking paths through the estate. View Full Details>> |
| Mundesley | 2 miles (3.7 km) | This lovely seaside village has some nice coastal trails to follow in both directions. It is part of the Norfolk Coast AONB where there's some wonderful coastal scenery. This walk follows the England Coast Path south east to the nearby village of Bacton. The route runs for just over 2 miles on a flat path running along the beaches. As such it's suitable for all abilities. View Full Details>> |
| Murlough Bay | 4 miles (6.6 km) | This walk explores the beautiful Murlough National Nature Reserve near Newcastle in Northern Ireland. The reserve is managed by the National Trust so there's a car park, visitor centre, and a network of well laid out footpaths. The reserve consists of a 6000 year old sand dune system, woodland, heath and a wonderful beach. The views across Dundram Inner Bay towards the Mourne Mountains are also exceptional. The reserve is great for wildlife watching with a wide variety of wintering wildfowl and waders to look out for on the coast. There's also 720 species of butterflies and moths to look out for around the pretty wildlflowers meadows. There's lots of good options for extending your walking in the Newcastle area. You could head to Tollymore Forest Park just to the south west of the reserve. The fantastic 1600 acre park contains an arboretum, the Shimna River and two forested hills known as the Drinns. Also nearby are the splendid climbs to Slieve Donard, Slieve Binnian in the Mourne Mountains. Castlewellan Forest Park is also not far away. View Full Details>> |
| Nash Point | 4 miles (6.5 km) | This coastal circular walk in the Vale of Glamorgan visits Nash Point Lighthouse on the Monknash Coast. The stretch of coast is popular with hikers with cliff top views, nice beaches and a visit to the Grade II listed lighthouse, which dates from 1831-32. You can park at the Nash Point car park, just south of Marcross. From here it is a short walk to the coastal path and the lighthouse. You follow the path east to St Donat's Point, with nice views of St Donat's Bay, Tresilian Bay and the Bristol Channel. The route then heads inland, towards the medieval castle of St Donat's. After rounding the castle, you follow public footpaths through the countryside towards Marcross where you pick up the Marcross Brook to take you back to the car park. Another popular way of visiting the lighthouse is to follow a strech of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast from Funraven Bay at Southerndown. Our coastal walk will take you along the cliffs to the lighthouse on a good footpath. You can extend the walk by heading east towards Llantwit Major beach. View Full Details>> |
| Newquay to Perranporth | 11 miles (18 km) | This is a popular coastal walk between Newquay and Perranporth along a section of the South West Coast Path. The walk is about 11 miles so it's perfect for a day's outing. It's a fantastic stretch of coast with lovely beaches, exhilirating cliff tops and beautiful bays. At Perranporth you can enjoy refreshments before catching the bus back to Newquay. The walk starts off in the centre of the popular tourist town of Newquay, near to the train station and the bus station. You then follow the coast path through the town towards Towan Head where there are lovely views over the Newquay beaches. The path then heads along the popular surfing spot of Fistral Beach. You then cross the River Gannel to Crantock Sands which may require the use of the ferry at high tide. The route then visits Pentire Point and Kelsey Head before descending to the beautiful Holywell Beach which has a wonderful dune system and is managed by the National Trust. The route then rounds Penhale Point before crossing Penhale Sands which has the most extensive system of sand dunes in Cornwall. After crossing the sands you arrive at the pretty little town of Perranporth where you can enjoy a well earned drink at the UK's only bar on the beach. To extend your walk you can continue along the coast path to St Agnes Head and enjoy a climb to St Agnes Beacon and a visit to the fascinating ruins of the Wheal Coates tin mine. See the Perranporth to St Agnes Walk for details of the route to the headland. Beyond there is the pretty village of Porthtowan. A few miles north of Newquay you can visit the Bedruthan Steps, a series of large photogenic rocks along the beach. View Full Details>> |
| North Wirral Coastal Park | 3 miles (5 km) | Enjoy a cycle or walk around this super coastal country park in the Wirral. The park covers 400 acres making it the largest park in the Wirral. There is a super waterside cycling and walking path running along the lovely Wirral Peninsula - you could even continue along it to Wallasey and beyond if you have time. View Full Details>> |
| Old Harry Rocks | 4 miles (6 km) | This circular walk visits the local landmark of Old Harry Rocks on the Dorset coast, near Studland. It's a popular walk with wonderful views towards Sandbanks, Poole Harbour and the Isle of Wight. The three striking chalk formations mark the most easterly point of the Jurassic Coast. The rocks are thought to be named after Harry Paye, the infamous Poole pirate. His ship would lay in wait for passing merchant ships, using the rocks as cover. You can park at the South Beach car park in Studland to start your walk. From here you pick up a nice flat footpath along the South West Coast Path to take you to the rocks. It's about a one mile stroll from the parking area to the rocks, with a seated viewpoint along the way. The path passes through chalk grassland with lots of pretty wildflowers to look out for in the summer months. From the rocks you can then climb towards Ballard Point where you pick up a section of the Purbeck Way to take you across Ballard Down. You then descend back into Studland on a country lane, passing the Glebeland Estate. The route then heads to the pretty Norman Church of St Nicholas which dates from the 12th century, although there has been a church on this site from Saxon times. You can follow a public footpath through the church grounds which leads you back to the car park. At the end of your walk you can enjoy refreshments at the Bankes Arms pub on Manor Road. It has a great beer garden overlooking Studland Bay. To extend your walking in the area you could head north and explore the lovely Studland Heath Nature Reserve. Here you will find way marked trails taking you through sand dunes and heathland with a variety of wildlife to look out for. The heath leads into Godlingstone Heath where you can visit the impressive Agglestone Rock. The large sandstone block sits in an elevated position and commands wonderful views across the heaths to the coast. Continuing west along the Purbeck Way from Ballard Down will take you to the village of Corfe Castle with its ruined castle and pretty cottages. You can virtually explore the area around Old Harry by clicking on the Google Street View link below. View Full Details>> |
| Orcombe Point | 6 miles (9.7 km) | Visit the most westerly point of the Jurassic Coast on this circular walk from Exmouth. There's some moderate climbs with great coastal views to enjoy in both directions. View Full Details>> |
| Oxwich Bay Circular | 4 miles (6.5 km) | This circular walk explores the area surrounding Oxwich Bay on the Gower Peninsula. The Travel Magazine named Oxwich beach the most beautiful in Britain. You start at the car park in Oxwich and head along the coast through Oxwich Wood before continuing to Oxwich point where there are splendid coastal views. On the way you will pass the fascinating St Illtud's Church. Founded in the 6th century the church has an interesting stone font and tranquil grounds. From Oxwich point you continue around the southern part of the headland with views over Port-Eynon Bay. Footpaths through the countryside then take you back to Oxwich via the fine ruins of Oxwich Castle. The route then heads through the lovely sand dunes of Oxwich Burrows Nature Reserve where you can look out for a variety of flora and fauna. These include more than 600 species of plants such as Bee Orchids and Early Marsh-orchids. The area also includes a freshwater lake, salt marsh and the pretty stream of Nicholaston Pill. Look out for birds including Cetti's Warblers, Sedge Warblers and Bittern. If you'd like to continue your exercise then you could try the Three Cliffs Bay Walk which visits Nicholaston Burrows and Penmaen Burrows. The video below shows a walk from Oxwich to Three Cliffs also. The atmospheric ruins of the 12th century Pennard Castle are near here and well worth a visit too. View Full Details>> |
| Pagham Harbour | 6 miles (10 km) | Enjoy a walk around this lovely coastal nature reserve and look out for thousands of wading birds. The RSPB reserve is located a few miles south of Chichester, near the village of Pagham. You can park at the reserve car park, just off the Chichester Road. From here you can pick up the waterside footpaths to Sidlesham Quay and then around the site to Pagham Lagoon. There's a wide variety of habitats with salt marsh, mudflats, farmland, copses, lagoons, reed beds and shingle beaches. Look out for birds including little egrets, ringed plovers and lapwings. To extend your walking in the area you can pick up the New Lipchis Way at nearby West Wittering. The long distance path will take you along the Chichester Channel in to Chichester. Just to the south of the harbour you will find Selsey Bill. The coastal headland is the southernmost point of Sussex. Around Birdham you can also pick up the Chichester Canal and enjoy a waterside walk along the towpath. Just to the south of the harbour you will find the headland at Selsey Bill. It is the southernmost point of Sussex and has a nice beach and fish huts selling fine fresh fish. View Full Details>> |
| Paignton to Brixham | 5 miles (8 km) | This is a popular coastal walk between these two lovely Torbay towns. It's about a 5 mile walk with the option of returning by bus or walking back the same way if you prefer. It's a beautiful stretch of coast with a number of pretty beaches, sheltered coves and a nice woodland section. Start the walk from Paignton Sands near to the train station and follow the South West Coast Path south to Goodrington Sands. You continue to Broadsands where there is another lovely little beach and a pitch and putt course on the adjacent headland. There's also good views of the Dartmouth Steam Railway, which crosses two Brunel viaducts near the beach. After leaving Broadsands you head around the Churston Golf Club and through The Grove, an ancient, semi-natural woodland. You then come to the pretty Brixham Battery and Gardens. Here you'll find 14-acres of gardens with an old Battery Observation Post and a 4.7 inch Gun Floor. The final section takes you to Brixham Harbour and the centre of this attractive coastal fishing port. Look out for the replica of the Golden Hind and the Victorian statue of William of Orange. You can extend the walk by continuing east along the coast path to Berry Head Country Park. The coastal park is also a nature reserve with lots of interesting coastal plantlife and a large Guillemot colony. For a longer route try the Torquay to Brixham Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Panorama Walk Barmouth | 6 miles (9.5 km) | A classic circular walk around Barmouth climbing above the town for magnificent views over the Mawddach estuary and the Snowdonia National Park. Start your walk from the car park on Panorama Road, just to the north east of the town. From here you can pick up footpaths to take you up to the Panorama gardens, where there is a great viewpoint. The route then heads north to Cutiau where you turn west towards Llwynon. There follows a challenging climb up to Bwlch Llan which reaches a height of around 1100ft. Your efforts are rewarded with wide ranging views over the Cader Idris range and Cardigan Bay from the high points. The walk then heads to Ffridd Y Graig, Craig Y Gigfran and Dinas Oleu before descending to the sea front in Barmouth. The final section then passes along the pretty Barmouth Beach before climbing back to the finish point at the car park. To extend your walking in the area try the Barmouth to Fairbourne Walk which takes you across Barmouth Bridge to the village of Fairbourne. This uses part of the Mawddach Trail which takes you along the old Ruabon to Barmouth railway line on a brilliant cycling and walking trail. It will take you to Dolgellau where you can try the excellent Precipice Walk and the New Precipice Walk. On the opposite side of the estuary you can also visit the little village of Arthog and try the Arthog Waterfalls Walk. You could also try the long distance Taith Ardudwy Way which starts in the town and takes you through the Snowdonia National Park. View Full Details>> |
| Parkgate Circular Walk | 3 miles (5 km) | This fine circular walk explores the village of Parkgate on the River Dee estuary. It's a splendid place for a stroll with great views across the marshes and a wide variety of birdlife to look out for. This includes huge numbers of wildfowl and waders. Keep your eyes peeled for grey herons, egrets, peregrine falcon, merlin, hen harrier and short eared owl. The route heads along the Parkgate Parade and then follows a section of the Wirral Way cycling and walking trail. It's a flat, easy walk with great views of the village parade on the coastal section and lots of wild flowers and butterflies along the disused railway line. To extend your walk you can head north along the Wirral Way to Wirral Country Park for more great views across the estuary. View Full Details>> |
| Paston Way | 18 miles (29 km) | Follow the Paston Way and the Norfolk Coast from Cromer to North Walsham on this splendid walk. You start at the seaside town of Cromer and head to Overstrand along the cliff top path. After a short inland stretch the route rejoins the coast at Mundesley, passing along the sea front towards Bacton. The final stretch takes you inland towards the finish point at North Walsham. Highlights on the route include the wonderful coastal scenery and pretty seaside towns. Much of the route is also suitable for cyclists. View Full Details>> |
| Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path | 93 miles (150 km) | The Peddars Way & Norfolk Coast Path begins at Knettishall Heath Country Park in Suffolk and takes you to Holme next the sea on the Norfolk coast along designated footpaths. Some wonderful coastal scenery then follows as you head east along the Norfolk coast path from Hunstanton to Cromer. View Full Details>> |
| Pembrey Country Park | 7 miles (12 km) | With stunning views of the Gower Peninsula and Carmarthen Bay this coastal country park is one of the most popular in the UK. It is perfect for a long cycle or walk with numerous well laid trails, National Cycle Network route 4 and St Illtyd's Walk all running through the park and the adjacent Pembrey Forest. Highlights include the gorgeous Cefn Sidan beach with 8 miles of golden sand and extensive dunes. There are also 8 Wildlife trails, the beautiful Corsican pine forest and a Conservation pond with bird hides. The off road cycle trail is perfect for a family cycle ride - you can bring your own bike or hire one from the Ski Pembrey centre. Here you could also hire some skis and try the dry sky slope in the park! It's a top class facility with an Alpine Ski Lodge, Cafe and a floodlit 130m main slope. There's also a fantastic toboggan run, crazy golf and pony trekking on offer. If you'd like to continue your walk/cycle then you could head further into the adjacent Pembrey Forest - it covers nearly 2500 acres with several lovely woodland trails and interesting wildlife including sparrowhawk and goshawk. You could also follow National Cycle Route 4 along the coast to Llanelli where you will find the splendid Millennium Coastal Park or follow St Illtyd's Walk to the lovely Swiss Valley Reservoirs. View Full Details>> |
| Penmon Point | 1 miles (1.5 km) | This walk on Penmon Point visits the Trwyn Du Lighthouse where you can enjoy lovely views towards Puffin Island, Great Orme and Snowdon. It's a splendid section of the Anglesey Coast with nice pebble beaches, interesting rock formations and some nice coastal countryside. It's also great for wildlife watching with seals and dolphins to look out for. You can park at the car park next to the excellent Pilot House cafe and pick up a good walking trail to the lighthouse on Black Point. Then explore the area on more coastal paths. The village of Penmon is also well worth exploring. It has a fascinating history with the 12th century Pemon Priory. Here you can explore the ancients hermits well, the magnificent dove house and the ancients church. View Full Details>> |
| Pennard Castle | 4 miles (6 km) | Visit this ruined 12th century castle and explore the beautiful Pennard Burrows on this circular walk on the Gower Peninsula. It's a stunning area with a wooded valley and the fresh water river of Pennard Pill. The walk starts from the large parking area at West Cliff and heads along the coast to Shire Combe with wonderful views over Three Cliffs Bay (you can actually explore this section of the coast path on the google street view link below). There are nice wide grassy footpaths through fields surrounded by gorse bushes on this section. You then head through Pennard Burrows to Pennard Castle, crossing the delightful Pennard Pill on the way. The walk continues to the ruins on sandy paths. The castle is a grade II listed building and a scheduled ancient monument with a fascinating history stretching back several centuries. There's great phot opportunities with the beautiful coast making a splendid backdrop to the atmospheric ruins. If you would like to extend your walking in the area then you could try the Three Cliffs Bay Walk for more fabulous views. You could also pick up the Gower Way long distance walk or climb the sandstone ridge of Cefn Bryn for magnificent views over the area. Just a mile to the east is the lovely Bishopston Valley with a pretty river running through a wooded valley to Pwll Du Bay. View Full Details>> |
| Penrhos Coastal Park | 2 miles (3.5 km) | This lovely coastal park consists of woodland trails and nice coastal views. The area is a country park and nature reserve with waymarked nature trails and lots of wildlife to look out for. Highlights are the resident red squirrels, badgers and various wildfowl around the two large ponds. You can also enjoy a stroll to Penrhos beach. Here you can enjoy splendid views across the bay and study some interesting rock formations. Cyclists can visit the reserve by following National Cycle Route 8 from Holyhead. It's a lovely ride passing Penrhos beach before arriving at the park. This route starts at the car park at Penrhos beach and follows a cycling and walking trail through the park to Beddmanarch Bay. The Anglesey Coast Path runs through the park so you can pick this up to extend your walk. If you follow it along the coast you will come to Breakwater Country Park where you can climb Holyhead Mountain for wonderful views over Anglesey, the Isle of Man, the Skerries and the mountains of Ireland. View Full Details>> |
| Penzance to Mousehole | 3 miles (5.5 km) | This walk follows a section of the South West Coast Path from Penzance to Mousehole via Newlyn. View Full Details>> |
| Peter Scott Walk | 10 miles (16 km) | Travel along the Wash on this lovely, easy walk through Norfolk. The path starts by the River Nene near to Naturalist and painter Sir Peter Scott's lighthouse north of Sutton Bridge. You then follow the coastline of the Wash to the Lynn Channel on the River Great Ouse. The river then leads you to the finish point at King's Lynn Ferry. Wildlife is abundant on this walk with numerous species of bird to look out for including oystercatchers, curlew, redshanks and marsh harriers. View Full Details>> |
| Plymouth's Waterfront Walkway | 10 miles (16 km) | A nice easy walk along a section of the south west coast path which highlights the city's history and heritage. The walk links the Cremyll Ferry landing stage on the shores of the Tamar with Jennycliff on the eastern side of Plymouth Sound. Known as Plymouth's Waterfront Walkway the walk is suitable for families with good paths and lots to see on the way. Highlights include Plymouth Hoe, Smeatons Lighthouse, the pretty Marina at the Barbican, Hooe Lake and Fort Bovisand at the end of the walk. View Full Details>> |
| Poets Walk Clevedon | 1 miles (2 km) | This short walk in Clevedon follows the Poet's Walk footpath along the cliff tops to the west of the town. The walk is inspired by some of the poets and writers who have visited Clevedon. These include Coleridge in 1795 and Tennyson in 1834. It's also a local nature reserve and includes calcareous grassland, coastal scrub, woodland, with fine views over the Bristol Channel. The walk starts in a lovely spot at the pretty Marine Lake at Salthouse Bay. From here you can pick up the little path heading south west along the coast. It runs down to Wain's Hill where there is an univallate Iron Age Fort. The hillfort is defined by a steep, natural slope from the south and north with two ramparts to the east. You can follow footpaths round the hill to the noteworthy St Andrew's Church. Parts of the original 12th century church remain with 14th and 15th century additions also. It's located in a fine elevated spot overlooking the Bristol Channel, and has been designated as a Grade I listed building. View Full Details>> |
| Point of Ayr | 1 miles (1 km) | This beautiful coastal Nature Reserve on the Dee Estuary is a great place for a walk with splendid views and an abundance of wildlife. There are nice sandy paths through the dunes with thousands of feeding birds to look out for. These include Curlew, Peregrine and Oystercatcher. Also look out for natterjack toads. You can also enjoy a walk along the lovely Talacre beach and visit the 18th century Point of Ayr lighthouse providing it is not high tide! Talacre beach has miles of golden sand with great views over the Irish Sea. View Full Details>> |
| Porlock and Porlock Weir | 6 miles (9 km) | This circular walk from the town of Porlock uses sections of the South West Coast Path and the Coleridge Way to take you on a tour of the coast and woods surrounding the town. The walk starts in Porock and follows the South West Coast Path east to Bossington before turning west along Porlock Bay to the pretty village of Porlock Weir. View Full Details>> |
| Porthcurno to Lands End | 5 miles (8 km) | Follow the South West Coast Path from the village of Porthcurno to Land's End, the most westerly point of England. It's a splendid section of the coast with fabulous cliff top views and lots of beautiful beaches along the way. The walk starts in the parking area in Porthcurno and heads to the beach and the wonderful Minack Theatre. The wonderful open air theatre is positioned above a gully with a rocky granite outcrop jutting into the sea. The path heads west to Rospletha Cliff and Porth Chapel beach at St Levan before coming to the coastal village of Porthgwarra. Here you can walk through a tunnel to visit a delightful little cove. The next section takes you around Hella Point to Gwennap Head. The headland is a great place for seeing unusual wildlife such as basking sharks and ocean sunfish. It's also favoured by birdwatchers with many travelling the length and breadth of Britain to track rare seabirds. Look out for gannet, Manx shearwater, guillemot, razorbill, fulmar, shag and cormorant as you make your way around the headland. View Full Details>> |
| Porthdinllaen | 2 miles (4 km) | Enjoy stunning coastal views and delightful coastal villages on this walk on the Llyn Peninsula. There are also fine sandy beaches, interesting rock pools and great views to the mountains of Yr Eifl and Snowdonia to enjoy on this bracing walk. The walk starts from the car park at the little village of Morfa Nefyn. You then walk along the attractive headland to the fishing village of Porthdinllaen where you will find the well known Ty Coch Inn. The distinctive pub is considered one of the best in Wales with its wonderful views over the Irish Sea to The Rivals. You continue around the headland passing the lifeboat station and heading through the local golf course before returning to the car park. The area is wonderful for wildlife. Look out for a variety of sea birds including oystercatchers, sand martins and cormorants. Grey seals can also be seen around the coast. View Full Details>> |
| Porthtowan | 3 miles (5 km) | This circular walk explores the coast and countryside surrounding the lovely village of Porthtowan. It's a popular place with a beautiful beach, exhilirating cliff top paths and a series of mine stacks and engine houses dotting the landscape. This 3 mile circular walk starts at the coastal car park and takes you along the South West Coast Path towards Chapel Porth which has a nice little beach. The path then heads through the Chapel Combe valley with views to the passing Great Wheal Charlotte Mine. At Towan Cross you pick up another path taking you through the countryside to the car park. You can extend the walk by following country lanes to Mount Hawke where there is a nice path along a stream. To continue your walking in the area you could follow the South West Coast Path north to St Agnes Head. There's some lovely coastal heathland in this area and the fascinating Wheal Coates former tin mine. You can visit these locations on our St Agnes Head - St Agnes Beacon - Wheal Coates Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Portishead Nature Reserve Walk | 2 miles (4 km) | An easy circular walk around the Portsbury Wharf Nature Reserve in Portishead. The attractive 113 acre site provides a vital buffer of green land between Portishead and the Portbury Dock industrial complex. View Full Details>> |
| Portishead to Clevedon | 5 miles (8.5 km) | Follow the coastal path from Portishead to Clevedon on this point to point walk in Somerset. There's pretty bays, nice beaches, sandstone cliffs and great views across the Severn Estuary into Wales. The route runs along a fairly flat path for about 5 miles. The walk starts from the Portishead Lake where there is a nice park, lakeside cafe and car parking. Just to the north is Portishead Point lighthouse at Battery Point which is another good start point for the walk. From the park you head south along the Mariner's Path to Black Nore lighthouse. The Grade II listed building was built in 1894 to guide shipping in the Severn Estuary as it made its way in and out of Bristol Harbour. You continue past Redcliff Bay, Charlcombe Bay and Walton Bay where you reach the coastal golf course. The route continues past the 17th Century, Grade II listed Walton Castle and Ladye Bay before passing along the sea front in Clevedon and finishing at the pier. You can either return the same way or catch the bus back. View Full Details>> |
| Portsmouth and Southsea Coastal Walk | 5 miles (7.8 km) | A walk around Portsmouth and Southsea, visiting Portsmouth Harbour, Southsea Common and Southsea Castle. You'll pass several significant local landmarks and enjoy fine coastal views throughout. The walk starts at Portsmouth Harbour railway station and picks up the Solent Way long distance trail to take you around the harbour. View Full Details>> |
| Prawle Point | 2 miles (4 km) | Visit this wonderful coastal headland on this exhilarating walk in South Devon. There's spectacular cliff tops, pretty beaches and great views along the coast. The spot is also significant as the southernmost point of Devon and a good place for wildlife watching. Look out for the rare cirl bunting and chestnut-sided warbler as you make your way through the area. There's also lots of pretty wildflowers and interesting plants, with orange tip, heath brown and red admiral butterflies fluttering around them. The walk starts from the Prawle Point car park, about a mile south west of the village of East Prawle. From here it is a short walk to the Coastwatch Lookout at Prawle Point. Here you will find the Coastwatch visitor centre with a wealth of information about the area. From the headland you can see various birds on the cliffs such as cormorants, razorbills, fulmars and little owls. There's also lots of pretty vegetation including tormentil, birds foot trefoil and autumn squill. After rounding the headland you head north to Gammon Head and Pig's Nose where you turn inland. Other footpaths then take you back to the car park. It's easy to extend your walk by picking up the South West Coast Path and heading north west towards East Portlemouth. Here you can catch a ferry over the estuary and visit Salcombe. There are nice walks here around the Salcombe and Kingsbridge Estuary and up to Bolt Head. Heading east along the coast path will take you past Lannacombe Bay to Start Point where you can enjoy interesting tours at the lighthouse. View Full Details>> |
| Purbeck Way | 15 miles (24 km) | This beautiful walk takes you from Wareham to Swanage giving splendid views of the Purbeck Hills and the Dorset coast. The route below uses the South West Cost path and the Purbeck Way to create a super circuit of the area. The route starts with a lovely waterside stretch along the River Frome from Wareham. You then enter Stoborough Heath where you will pass the Blue Pool - a flooded, disused clay pit. Shortly after you arrive at the pretty village of Corfe Castle with its ruined 10th century castle of the same name. The path then leads you through Corfe Common and onto the stunning Dorset coast where you join the South West Coast Path. The coastal section then takes you past the beautiful Chapman's Pool, through Durlston Country Park to Swanage. From Swanage you continue to Ballard Down where you join the Purbeck Way, crossing the Purbeck Hills to return to Corfe Castle. The video below left shows the splendid view as you cross the Purbeck Hills from Ballard Down to Corfe Castle. On your right you can see Poole Harbour and Bournemouth, while on your left is Swanage and the Purbeck Hills. On a clear day the Isle of Wight is also clearly visible. View Full Details>> |
| Raad ny Foillan - Isle of Man Coastal Path | 95 miles (153 km) | Follow the Isle of Man Coast path along the beautiful Manx coast and enjoy some stunning coastal scenery. The 95 mile (153km) walk is waymarked with a White gull on blue sign. This is beacause in English the route is known as 'The Way of the Gull'. The island is wonderful for flora and fauna. Look out for grey seals and a variety of seabirds including kittiwakes, Manx shearwaters, puffins and guillemots. The walk starts in Douglas, the capital and largest town on the island. The first section heads south west to Castletown passing Santon Head and the lovely Langness peninsula. You'll also pass Dreswick Point the southernmost point of the main island of the Isle of Man. From Castletown you continue west to Port St Mary and Spanish Head where there are views to the Calf of Man. The route turns north to Port Erin where you will find the Isle of Man Railway Museum. From Port Erin you head to Peel climbing Bradda Hill and Cronk ny Arrey Laa where there are great cliff top views. You will also pass the magical Glen Maye with its picturesque waterfall and lush woodland trails. View Full Details>> |
| Rame Head | 6 miles (9 km) | This circular walk explores the beautiful Rame Peninsula on the Cornish Coast. It's a fantastic place for a walk with wonderful views across Cawsand Bay to Plymouth Sound and the city of Plymouth. There's some nice coastal woodland and a visit to the mediaevel Rame Chapel. It's a great place for wildlife spotting with lots of sea birds and Dartmoor Ponies to look out for. The entire area of the peninsula is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The walk starts from the car park at Kingsand and follows the South West Coast Path to Penlee Point, before heading to Rame Head and the mediaevel chapel. You then head north along the coast before crossing the peninsula to return to Kingsand. View Full Details>> |
| Red Wharf Bay | 8 miles (13 km) | This walk uses part of the Anglesey Coast Path to explore this expansive sandy bay located on the east coast of Anglesey. The area is an area of outstanding natural beauty with fabulous coastal views and some lovely countryside. There's also lots of pretty pools and eroded rock formations to look out for. This walk starts at the car park at the village of Red Wharf Bay and picks up the coast path to take you around the bay. It's a good path which runs along the beach with the option of climbing into the forest around Mynydd Llwdyiarth. National Cycle Route 5 runs through the village of Pentraeth which is just south of the bay. You can cycle to the village and then head along Lon y traeth to take you down to the bay. To extend your walk you can continue along the coast path to the village of Benllech. This will take you through St David's Park. Here you can try the Benllech to Moelfre Coastal Path which takes you north along a beautiful stretch of coast. If you continue east along the coast you will soon come to Penmon Point. View Full Details>> |
| Rempstone Ride | 12 miles (20 km) | This is a lovely, largely traffic free cycle or walk across Rempstone Heath in Dorset. The route begins at Norden Station and soon enters the peaceful Rempstone Estate with its woodland, fields and heathland. On exiting the estate there are two alternative paths you can follow. The first heads towards the Sandbanks ferry with splendid views of Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island. The other takes you to Studland with its fabulous beaches and attractive coastline. Either of these make good alternative starting points for the ride although the Sandbanks ferry will be more accessible for most. Cyclists should use a mountain bike or hybrid as the off road tracks on Rempstone Heath are quite bumpy and sandy in places. Most of this route takes place on the traffic free Rempstone estate so is also suitable for walkers. To further extend your walk you could explore the Studland Heath Nature Reserve with its dunes, heathland and variety of wildlife. You can also pick up the South West Coast Path at the Sandbanks Ferry and head to Old Harry Rocks and Swanage. Just to the east you will find Godlingstone Heath where you can visit the impressive Agglestone Rock. The large sandstone block commands wonderful views across the heaths to the coast. View Full Details>> |
| Rhossili | 2 miles (4 km) | This circular walk takes you around the Rhossili headland on the beautiful Gower Peninsula. The walk start from the car park in the village of Rhossili. Here there is a National Trust shop in one of the former coastguard cottages. You then follow a good surfaced footpath along the headland with wonderful views of the beautiful Rhossili Bay and beach. You continue towards Kitchen Corner where there are splendid views of Worm's Head. This unusual promontory, is shaped like a giant sea-serpent and marks the most westerly tip of Gower. It is possible to walk to Worm's Head but only when the tide is out so check tide times before if you intend to extend your walk here. The route continues along the coast to Tears Point with views of the lovely Fall Bay. The final section takes you through the countryside back to the car park. If you would like to continue your walking in the area then you could climb to the high point of the Gower at Rhossili Down on our Rhossili Bay Walk. The Gower Way long distance walk starts in Rhossili so you could follow the trail inland and visit the wonderful Cefn Bryn, an elevated sandstone ridge known as the 'backbone of Gower'. You could also pick up the Wales Coast Path and follow it north along Rhossili Bay to Llangennith. Using the google street view link below you can virtually explore area! View Full Details>> |
| Rhossili Bay | 3 miles (5.5 km) | A circular walk taking you along the beautiful Rhossili Bay before a climb to Rhossili Down for wonderful views along the Gower Coast. The first section takes you along the Wales Coast Path from the Rhossili car park to Hillend. It's a fairly flat path running along the stunning Rhossili beach with nice views of the sand dunes and the cliffs. There is a campsite and a cafe at Hillend so it's a good opportunity to grab some refreshments at what is roughly the half way point of the walk. At Hillend you turn around and climb onto Rhossili Down, the highest point in the Gower. It's a beautiful area commanding fabulous views to Worm's Head. You can also see lots of pretty wildflowers on the heathland in the summer months. Look out for ponies and horses grazing on the Down too. At the beacon you will reach the high point of the Gower at 193m (633ft). It is also the site of a Bronze-Age cairn built around four thousand years ago. After taking in the views from the beacon the route descends a short distance back to the car park. To continue your walking in this stunning area you could try our circular walk around the Rhossili headland. At low tide you can also cross the causeway and visit Worm's Head. View Full Details>> |
| Ribble Estuary | 5 miles (8.5 km) | Explore the most important river estuary in the UK on this coastal walk in Lytham St Annes. The Ribble Estuary attracts hundreds of thousands of birds each year. It's a special place with changing tides, lots of wildlife and nice views towards Southport and the Welsh Hills. The walk starts from the RSPB Ribble Discovery Centre at Fairhaven Lake. The centre is a great place to learn about the birds that visit the lake and estuary. You can park at the lakeside car park or catch a train to the nearby Ansdell and Fairhaven train station. The route then follows the lakeside path towards Granny's Bay before picking up the Lancashire Coastal Way to take you to Lytham. You can follow the nice surfaced footpath or take an alternative route through the sand dunes. You continue along the promenade to Lytham where you can take a small detour to the pretty Lowther Gardens. Here you'll find attractive woodland, a rose garden and a pond with a statue and fountain. After crossing the road to the sea front you continue to the iconic Lytham windmill. The mill was built at the beginning of the 19th century and is open to the public in the summer months. It contains a museum which explains the history and practice of flour milling. After leaving the mill you can enjoy a stroll along Lytham jetty. It's quite a long jetty and at low tide you can walk right to the end and enjoy an even better view of the birdlife in the estuary. Look out for herons, curlew, redshank, shellduck and dunlin. The walk then returns to the fairhaven lake car park the same way. To extend your walking in this lovely area you can continue along the Lancashire Coastal Way in either direction. Heading east will take you along the River Ribble towards Warton and Freckleton. This section has nice views over the river and surrounding countryside with birds such as Lapwing and Little Egret to look out for. There's also lots of wildflowers in the summer which attract butterflies and other birds. If you head west you will come to St Annes and Blackpool. Also nearby is the delightful Lytham Hall. The old hall is surrounded by attractive woodland and parkland with nice footpaths to follow around the site. View Full Details>> |
| Ring of Brodgar | 2 miles (4 km) | This walk visits a section of the fascinating Heart of Neolithic Orkney World heritage Site on Mainland island. The settlements are in a beautiful spot, next to the Loch of Stenness and surrounded by heather and wildlfowers. The area is also a RSPB Reserve with lots of wildlife to see. Look out for Curlews, drumming snipe, lapwings, dunlins, redshanks and oystercatchers as you make your way around the site. The notable ring of stones stands on a small isthmus between the Lochs of Stenness and Harray. They are the northernmost circle henge in Britain and the third largest. It is thought to have been erected between 2500 BC and 2000 BC. After exploring the site you can head south east for just over half a mile and visit the Standing Stones of Stenness. The stones may be the oldest henge site in the British Isles. Based on radiocarbon dating, it is thought that work on the site had begun by 3100 BC. Just next to the stones you will find Maeshowe. The Neolithic chambered cairn and passage grave dates from around 2800 BC. It's an impressive sight and one of the largest tombs in Orkney. The mound encasing the tomb is 115 feet (35 m) in diameter and rises to a height of 24 feet (7.3 m). You can extend your walk by heading to Skara Brae and the Bay of Skaill. You can virtually explore the area on the google street view link below! View Full Details>> |
| Ringstead Bay | 3 miles (5.5 km) | This walk takes you along a particularly lovely section of the Jurassic coastline near Weymouth in Dorset. The circular walk starts at Southdown at the good sized National Trust car park. It's also a terrific viewpoint with views over Weymouth Bay to Portland. A good footpath then takes you down to Burning Cliff where you pick up the South West Coast Path to White Nothe. The cliffs and views at White Nothe are particularly special. You can then return the same way or pick up the altrenative bridleway to take you back to the car park. This stretch has some wonderful coastal scenery with bays, beaches and spectacular cliffs. There is also some lovely countryside to enjoy and the option of following a steep track down to the shingle beach. View Full Details>> |
| Roseland Peninsula | 10 miles (16 km) | Explore the beautiful Roseland Peninsula on this 10 mile walk on the Cornish coast. The walk starts from the village of Porscatho where there is a good sized car park by the coast. You could also start from nearby Gerrans where there is an interesting 13th century church. From the Porscatho car park you head south along the South West Coast Path, passing a series of pretty coves and beaches including the Carricknath Point and Porthbean Beach SSSI. Here you will find sand covered beaches, natural rock platforms with fragments of saltmarsh, cliff top grassland, low rocky headlands and a variety of rare plants. You continue south to Zone Point, at the southernmost extremity of the peninsula extending into Falmouth Bay. Near here you will find the National Trust owned St Anthony Head Lighthouse. The headland is one of the highlights of the peninsula overlooking the entrance to one of the world's largest natural harbours, Carrick Roads and the estuary of River Fal. The site also includes an old military fort with big guns, batteries and fortifications. Look out for wildlife including cormorants, shags and seals in this area. The route continues past the pretty Little Molunan beach before turning north along St Mawes Harbour with nice views across to St Mawes Quay. This section includes some nice woodland trails with bluebells, primroses and celandines to see. Also look out for a wide variety of butterflies fluttering around the wildflowers. The path then takes you along the Porth Creek with views down to the Percuil River and a stretch through farmland. The final section takes you back along the coast to Porscatho. To continue your walking in the area you could head to the nearby town of Falmouth and visit the fascinating Pendennis Castle and the lovely Swanpool Nature Reserve. You can also enjoy a walk from St Mawes to St Just with a visit to the fascinating St Mawes Castle and the St Just in Roseland 13th-century church with beautiful riverside gardens. The ferry from St Mawes will take you across the Fal Estuary to Falmouth where you can continue along the South West Coast Path. View Full Details>> |
| Royal Victoria Country Park | 2 miles (4 km) | Explore 200 acres of woodland, grassy parkland and coastline in this delightful coastal park located at Netley, near Southampton. The park features a number of delightful walking paths while National Cycle Network route 2 also passes through the park. You can take a ride on the miniature narrow-gauge railway which runs for around 1 mile through the park while there is also has a 150-ft viewing tower, giving views over the park, and across Southampton Water to Hythe and Southampton. View Full Details>> |
| Rye Harbour | 2 miles (4 km) | This lovely walk takes you around Rye Harbour Nature Reserve on the Sussex coast. There's great scenery with a wide range of habitats including saltmarsh, lagoons, grazing marsh, shingle and reedbeds. You can follow miles of footpaths through the reserve while looking out for a huge variety of wildlife. Birds you might see include ringed plover, avocet, oystercatcher, redshank, lapwing, and sandwich terns. There's also lots of colourful plants and flowers in the summer months. Look out for 456 species of flowering plants including yellow horned-poppy, sea pea and sea campion. The reserve also includes Henry VIII's Camber Castle. You can visit the interesting ruins of this 16th century Device Fort, built to protect the Sussex coast against French attack. View Full Details>> |
| Saffron Trail | 72 miles (116 km) | A walk through the Essex countryside from the coast at Southend-on-Sea to Saffron Walden. The walk starts by the pier at Southend and follows the coast to the lovely Hadleigh Country Park. The 400 acre park includes the ruins of the 13th century Hadleigh Castle, mixed woodland, meadows and marshland. From the park you then head north to Chelmsford, passing Hockley Woods, Rayleigh and Danbury with a waterside stretch along the River Crouch at South Woodham Ferrers. At Chelmsford you'll enjoy a walk along the River Cam before continuing north to Great Dunmow and Newport before finishing at Saffron Walden. View Full Details>> |
| Salcombe and Bolt Head Circular Walk | 5 miles (8.5 km) | This coastal circular walk takes you from Salcombe to the coastal headland at Bolt Head. There's much to enjoy with pretty bays, exhilarating cliff tops and a peaceful woodland section through Tor Woods towards the end of the route. The walk starts at the North Sands car park near to Salcombe Castle. The ruined castle is located on a rocky outcrop which is easily reached on foot at low tide. From here you pick up the South West Coast Path and follow it south through Collaton Wood to the beach at South Sands and Splatcove Point. Around here you will pass the Overbeck's Museum and Garden. The National Trust owned site includes a colourful subtropical garden, with exotic and rare plants surrounding the seaside home of scientist and inventor Otto Overbeck. There's great views over the estuary and coast from the gardens and an interesting museum with Overbeck's art and natural history collection together with a display of items relating to the maritime history of the area. After passing Overbeck's the route then heads through Fir Wood before following the coast path to Sharp Tor with views over Starehole Bay. This is the area where the Herzogin Cecilie ship ran aground in 1936. A dark patch of seaweed marks the site of the wreck. Shortly after Starehole Bay you come to Bolt Head where there are fabulous views along the coast. The area is great for wildlife with Dartmoor Ponies grazing on the cliffs. Also look out for birds including Fulmar, Shag, and Cormorants. From Bolt Head you head north west along the coast path towards Middle Soar where you turn right and head inland. The path then turns right again towards Tor Woods. These pretty woods contain lots of woodland flowers including bluebells, ramsons, wood sorrel and celadines. Look out for wildlife including Sika Deer as you make your way through this lovely area. After exiting the woods you arrive back at the coast where it is a short walk back to the car park. To extend your walking in the area you can continue north west along the coast path to Bolberry Down. This National Trust owned area has good surfaced paths, lots of pretty wildflowers and more great views. Just beyond Bolberry Down you will find Bolt Tail, the sister headland of Bolt Head. Just to the north east of the town you can explore the Salcombe and Kingsbridge Estuary and look out for dolphins, seals, basking sharks and a variety of wading birds. You can also catch the ferry over the estuary to East Portlemouth and follow the coast path to Prawle Point, the southernmost point of Devon. View Full Details>> |
| Salcombe and Kingsbridge Estuary | 2 miles (3 km) | Enjoy a walk along the beautiful Salcombe and Kingsbridge Estuary Nature Reserve on this walk in Devon. Start your walk from the car park at Lincombe Cross just to the north east of Salcombe. From here you can pick up footpaths along the estuary to Tosnos Point and Snapes Point at the southern end. Reed beds, mudflats and eelgrass beds all help to support an abundance of wildlife on the estuary. Look out for dolphins, seals, basking sharks and a variety of wading birds as you make your way along the paths. To continue your walking in the area you could try our Salcombe and Bolt Head Circular Walk which visits some lovely cliff tops and woodland near the town. Heading north will take you to the town of Kingsbridge itself, where there are nice footpaths to follow from the town to the delightful Bowcombe Creek. You can also catch the ferry over the estuary from Salcombe to East Portlemouth and follow the coast path to Prawle Point, the southernmost point of Devon. View Full Details>> |
| Saltburn to Whitby | 19 miles (30.5 km) | A lovely coastal walk along a section of the Cleveland Way National Trail between Saltburn and Whitby. It's a stunning area with bracing cliff tops paths, lovely beaches and a series of pretty villages. The walk starts in Saltburn, passing the pretty Saltburn Valley Gardens where there's beautiful formal gardens, woodland and fine views of the ocean. You continue east towards Skinningrove, passing the attractive Cattersty Sands on the way. The path continues to the village of Boulby where there are some of the highest cliffs in England, at 203 metres (666 ft) above sea level. The next stage takes you to the village of Staithes. It's a popular tourist destination with its sheltered harbour, high cliffs and pretty cottages. Here you'll also find Cowbar Nab with it's huge seabird colony including Kittiwake, Fulmar and Razorbill. You continue along the coast to Port Mulgrave and Runswick Bay. This fishing village is another highlight of the Yorkshire coast with its sandy beach, sheltered bay and pretty little cottages. The white thatched property on the seafront is the only remaining thatched house on the Yorkshire coast. The final section takes you past the moonscape quarry at Sandsend Ness before passing along Whitby Sands and finishing at Whitby. View Full Details>> |
| Saltburn Valley Gardens | 1 miles (2 km) | This attractive park overlooks the lovely coastline at Saltburn in Yorkshire. It contains beautiful formal gardens and woodland with fine views of the ocean. View Full Details>> |
| Sand Point | 3 miles (5.5 km) | Enjoy fine views across the Bristol Channel to Wales on this coastal walk on the edge of the Mendip Hills in Somerset. View Full Details>> |
| Sandwood Bay | 7 miles (12 km) | Visit one of the most beautiful beaches in Great Britain on this wonderful walk in Sutherland. The route follows a 4 mile track from Blairmore, passing a series of pretty lochs through peat moorland to the coast. The walk starts at the car park in the little hamlet of Blairmore and soon picks up the trail to the coast. You'll first pass Loch Aisir, Loch na Gainimh and Loch a Mhuilinn before the wonderful stretch of coast comes into view. There's great views of the Cape Wrath cliffs and the lovely Sandwood Loch on this final section. The beach is absoultely stunning with sand dunes, cliffs and an unusual sea stack named Am Buachaille. It's about a mile long so you can enjoy a long stroll along the beach before heading back to Blairmore on the same path. The Sandwood coast is a great place for wildlife spotting. Look out for dolphins and a variety of birds including Guillemots, Razor Bills and Shags. View Full Details>> |
| Saxon Shore Way | 160 miles (257 km) | Explore Kent's ancient coastline as you visit Iron Age hill forts, cathedrals, Martello towers, historic ports and castles on this incredible 160 mile walk. The route passes through two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, numerous Sites of Special Scientific Interest and several Nature Reserves. View Full Details>> |
| Scarborough to Filey | 9 miles (14.5 km) | This is a popular coastal walk between these two attractive North Yorkshire towns. It's a particularly beautiful stretch of coast with lovely bays, exhilarating cliff tops, gorgeous beaches and fascinating rock formations. The route is a 9 mile walk on good paths with some moderate climbs along the way. It follows the Cleveland Way National Trail for much of the way. The walk starts by St Nicholas cliff in Scarborough and heads south past South Sands and South Bay to Wheatcroft Cliff. You'll also pass through South Cliff Gardens and Holbeck Gardens on this lovely opening section. The route then heads along the golf course at Wheatcroft to Cornelian Bay before coming to one of the walk's major highlights at Cayton Bay. The area is managed by the National Trust and includes a beautiful surfing beach and a woodland section along Cayton Cliff. The next section takes you past the interesting rock formations at Lebberston Cliff to the pretty Gristhorpe Sands. You then pass along Newbiggin cliff before coming to Filey Brigg. This striking rocky promontory is another major feature of this section of the coast path. It's a great place for looking out for the wide variety of sea birds which visit the area. The final section takes you along Filey Sands to the town of Filey. It's a great place for refreshments with plenty of pubs and cafes to choose from. Filey sits at the northern end of the Yorkshire Wolds Way so you could pick this up to extend your walk. You can follow it inland through the countryside to nearby Muston. At the end of the route you will also find the lovely Filey Brigg Country Park. The park has super views over Filey Bay and the town below. You can virtually explore this section of the Cleveland Way by using the google street view link below. You can also extend your walking by following the Cleveland Way north and visiting Robin Hood's Bay and Whitby on the Whitby to Scarborough Walk. Heading south will take you to Bempton Cliffs and Flamborough Head on the Filey to Bridlington Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Seaford to Eastbourne | 13 miles (21 km) | This is a popular coastal walk between these two East Sussex towns. It passes through many of the highlights of this beautiful area of the South Downs. This includes visits to Cuckmere River and Cuckmere Haven, Birling Gap, Seven Sisters Country Park, Friston Forest and Beachy Head. The route uses sections of the long distance Vanguard Way and South Downs Way to guide you along the coast. As such the footpaths are waymarked and generally in good condition. It's about a 13 mile walk with the option of returning to Seaford on a splendid coastal bus ride from Eastbourne. The walk starts in Seaford and heads east along the coast, passing the Martello Tower and the Seaford Head Nature Reserve. From here there are spectacular views of the Seven Sisters Cliffs and the Cuckmere Valley. It's also a great place for flora and fauna with nationally rare and significant species of plants, birds and insects. The route then follows a riverside path north along the Cuckmere River. It's a very pretty area with species-rich chalk grassland and wildflowers in the summer months. Look out for wildlife which includes a variety of butterflies and wildfowl. The route crosses the Exceat Bridge over the river to enter Seven Sisters Country Park. Here you will find 700 acres of parkland with lots of footpaths and cycling trails. You pick up the South Downs Way here and follow it south through the park to the coast. The next section takes you to Birling Gap where you can visit the National Trust owned Belle Tout lighthouse. It's a good place to stop for refreshments with a nice cafe and great views. The next stage takes you from Birling Gap to Beachy Head. Here you will find the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, rising to a height of 162 metres (531 ft) with fabulous views along the coast to West Sussex and Dungeness in Kent. The final section descends into Eastbourne, passing along the beach before finishing at the pier. For a longer, marathon length route try our Brighton to Eastbourne Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Seahouses to Bamburgh | 3 miles (5 km) | Walk along the golden sands of the Northumberland Coast, on this walk from Seahouses to the striking Bamburgh Castle. It's a lovely setting with the path running along the beach with the castle making a wonderful backdrop for the duration of the walk. There's also attractive sand dunes, pretty wildflowers and great views over to the nearby Farne Islands. Starting from Seahouses Harbour it's about a 3 mile walk to the castle along the beach. It's a nice flat, easy walk with a short climb up to the Grade I listed castle. The castle is open to the public and well worth a visit if you have time. There's fine state rooms, an art gallery, a stable block and a 12th century keep which is the oldest surviving part of the castle. To extend your walking in the area you can head south on the Seahouses to Beadnell Walk. The St Oswald's Way long distance trail also passes through the area. You could follow it north and visit the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve. Here you can look out for grey seals and birds including pale-bellied brent goose, wigeon, teal, pintail, merlin, dunlin, bar-tailed godwit. Just north from the castle is the lovely Budle Bay. You can explore the area on our Bamburgh to Budle Bay Circular Walk which starts at the castle. View Full Details>> |
| Seahouses to Beadnell | 3 miles (5 km) | This popular walk runs between this two lovely villages in the Northumberland Coast AONB. It's about a 3 mile walk along a section of the Northumberland Coast Path, so 6 miles there and back. The route takes place on a fairly flat section of the St Oswald's Way long distance trail. There's pretty harbours, lovely beaches and lots of wildlife to look out for on the way. Seahouses is a working fishing port, which also serves the tourist trade, being the embarkation point for visits to the Farne Islands. The route starts at Seahouses Harbour and heads towards North Sunderland Point. You continue south towards the golf course, the pretty Annstead Burn and Annstead Beach. The route passes alongside the lovely beach where you will find attractive sand dunes and wildlflowers such as Dog Rose and Marram Grass. You soon come to Beadnell, passing the village, before finishing at the harbour where you can enjoy great views across Beadnell Bay. To extend the route you can continue on the Beadnell to Low Newton Walk. This includes a visit to the National Trust owned Newton Pool Nature Reserve. Head north along the St Oswalds Way and you can visit the dramatic Bamburgh Castle on the Seahouses to Bamburgh Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Sefton Coastal Footpath | 21 miles (34 km) | This wonderful walk takes you from Crosby to Southport along the beautiful Sefton coastline. The walk starts at Waterloo station in Crosby and heads to the coast via Crosby Marine Lake. You then head north to Hightown through the Dunes, passing the fascinating Another Place Sculptures on Crosby Beach. The Anthony Gormley piece was created in 1997, consisting of 100 cast iron figures facing towards the sea. The figures are modelled on the artist's own naked body which has caused some controversy. As the tides ebb and flow, the figures are revealed and submerged by the sea. The next section takes you to Formby where you will enter the captivating Ainsdale National Nature Reserve and Formby Beach. This is a well known spot for spotting the Natterjack Toad in the fabulous scenery of dunes, pinewoods and golden sand. Also look out for Red Squirrels, sand lizards and great-crested newts on this fantastic section of the walk. The final section of the walk takes you past Royal Birkdale Golf course (home of the Open) and onto the lovely seaside town of Southport with its magnificent pier. The path comes to end shortly after at Crossens. View Full Details>> |
| Selsey Bill | 2 miles (3 km) | This walk visits the southernmost point of Sussex in the town of Selsey. You can park at the East Beach car park to start your walk. From there it's a nice 1 mile walk along the pretty beach to Selsey Bill. After your walk you can enjoy refreshments in one of the cafes. The area is also well known for its excellent fresh fish huts. The walk can be extended by visiting the nearby Pagham Harbour. It's located just to the north of Selsey and includes a fantastic nature reserve with thousands of wading birds. If you head north west from the headland you can visit East Wittering and West Wittering with views of Bracklesham Bay. Here you can enjoy a walk through the sand dunes at East Head and pick up the long distance New Lipchis Way to take you into Chichester. You can also enjoy more nice walking trails around Chichester Harbour and Thorney Island. View Full Details>> |
| Sharkham Point Nature Reserve | 1 miles (1.5 km) | Enjoy a short circular walk around this delightful coastal nature reserve in Brixham, Devon. The reserve has a good sized parking area at the end of St Mary's Road in Higher Brixham. From here you can pick up the footpaths to take you to Sharkham Point and along the coastal headland. It's a great viewpoint with nice views down to St Mary's beach and along the coast. The area is fantastic for wildlife watching with ospreys in the skies above and dolphins in the beautiful turquoise waters below. To extend your walk follow the South West Coast Path north around St Mary's Bay to the splendid Berry Head Country Park. Here you can see a wide variety of coastal plantlife and a large Guillemot colony. View Full Details>> |
| Sidmouth to Beer | 7 miles (12 km) | This walk follows a section of the wonderful Jurassic Coast from the town of Sidmouth to the village of Beer in Devon. It's a popular coastal walk running for about 8 miles along an undulating path. There's lovely cliff top views, attractive beaches and interesting geological features to see on the path. Also look out for Exmoor Ponies on the way! Starting on the front in Sidmouth head east, crossing the River Sid. You then pass the lovely Salcombe Hill Cliffs and Chapman's Rocks before coming to Dunscombe Cliffs. You may see Exmoor Ponies and lots of butterflies fluttering around the wide variety of wildflowers you can find in this area. The route continues past Salcombe Regis to Weston Mouth, an isolated shingle beach which can be reached by a footpath. Shortly after you come to the popular village of Branscombe where there's a nice beach and three National Trust properties; The Old Bakery, Manor Mill & Forge. You continue to Beer passing the photogenic Hooken Cliffs. A slump in the Chalk cliffs in 1790 separated a 10-acre tract of land, now a wooded and sheltered habitat with chalk pinnacles on the seaward side. It's reached via a steep footpath leading from the clifftop to Branscombe Beach. The route finishes in the pretty seaside village of Beer, where there are lovely views over Seaton Bay and Lyme Bay with a nice shingle beach and lots of fishing boats. View Full Details>> |
| Skara Brae and the Bay of Skaill | 1 miles (2 km) | Visit this fascinating Neolithic settlement located on Mainland in the Orkney Islands. The settlement is located on the beautiful Bay of Skaill and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Skara Brae dates from 3180 BCE–2500 BCE and consists of eight clustered houses with stone bed enclosures, dressers and seats. The site is superbly preserved and referred to as the Scottish Pompeii. There are good facilities with a visitor centre and cafe. The walk also takes in some wonderful coastinline. You could continue your walk along the coast towards Yesnaby and Neban Point. Another must see site is the Ring of Brodgar. The notable ring of stones stands on a small isthmus between the Lochs of Stenness and Harray. It also includes the Standing Stones of Stenness and Maeshowe burial chamber. View Full Details>> |
| Solent Way | 60 miles (96 km) | Follow the Solent Way along the beautiful south coast from Milford on Sea to Emsworth. The route starts off at Milford on Sea and heads along the coastal marshes to Lymington with splendid views of the Isle of Wight. This section runs through the beautiful Keyhaven Marshes where you can look out for a wide variety of birdlife. You also have the option of heading along the long shingle spit to Hurst Castle, one of Henry VIII's Device Forts. At Lymington the route heads inland through the New Forest towards Hythe passing the excellent Beaulieu Motor Museum, the pretty Dibden Inclosure and the Beaulieu River as you go. At Hythe you cross Southampton water on the Hythe Ferry taking you to Southampton where you follow the coast to Gosport and Lee on Solent. On this section you will pass the delightful riverside villages of Hamble-le Rice and Warsash, catching a ferry over the River Hamble between the two settlements. Near here there's also Alver Valley Country Park and the delightful Titchfield Haven nature reserve at Fareham. Here you will find 369 acres of River, fen, pools, reedbed and meadow with a variety of wildlife to look out for. From Gosport a ferry ride takes you over the River Hamble to Portsmouth with its fascinating maritime history. Highlights here include the D-Day Museum where you can see the Overlord Embroidery. This tells the story of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy in 34 extraordinary hand-stitched panels with a total length of 83 metres. The final stretch leads you around the attractive Langstone Harbour to the finish at Emsworth Quay. View Full Details>> |
| Solva Harbour | 2 miles (3 km) | Enjoy a walk around the beautiful Solva Harbour on the Pembrokeshire Coast. There are good walking trails on the east and west side of the harbour with the rocky headland of the Gribin giving wonderful views of the coast and St Bride's Bay. There are also great views of the River Solva and of the pretty Solva beach. This walk starts from the car park and follows good footpaths to the Gribin on the eastern side of the harbour. At the Gribin summit you will find an Iron Age fort and really wonderful views of the harbour and the coast. You can descend to the pebble beach at Gwadn where you may see breeding chough. After returning to the village you could stop for refreshments at the lovely Harbour Inn which has outdoor tables overlooking the river. The walk then continues along the western side of the harbour where there is more lovely scenery. View Full Details>> |
| Solva to St Davids Coastal Walk | 6 miles (9.7 km) | A popular coastal walk from Solva to St David's along a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The walk is just over 6 miles, taking place on undulating paths with wonderful sea views along the way. There is some climbing along the cliff tops but it is generally a fairly easy route. The walk starts from the beautiful Solva Harbour and south along the River Solva to the coast. You head west passing the stunning natural sea arch at Gewni Island and the interesting rock formations at The Cradle. You continue past Trelerw to Caerfai Bay where you will find purple sandstone cliffs and a sandy beach which can be reached at low tide on some steep steps. There's also tremendous views to the islands of Skomer and Skokholm from the picnic area above the beach. The next stage takes you to the St Non's Bay where you will find the ruins of St Non's Chapel, held by tradition to mark the birthplace of St David. The Grade II listed chapel is thought to be one of the oldest Christian buildings in Wales. Nearby you will find St Non's Cross and a holy well where visitors throw coins for luck. The route continues past the lovely Porthclais with its delightful harbour. The old harbour wall, built by the Romans is still largely intact. The walk then leaves the coast, following country lanes into St David's, where you finish at the cathedral. The city is noteworthy as the smallest in the UK and includes the medieval ruins of Bishops Palace next to the cathedral. The site dates back to the 6th century, although the building that stands today dates largely from the late 13th and 14th centuries. View Full Details>> |
| Solway Coast | 23 miles (37 km) | This long walk makes use of the Cumbria Coastal Way and the Hadrian's Wall Path to explore the Solway Coast AONB. View Full Details>> |
| Souter Lighthouse and Whitburn Coastal Park | 5 miles (8.5 km) | Enjoy a coastal walk around the Souter Lighthouse, Whitburn Coastal Park and Lizard Point on the South Shields coast. The park and lighthouse are located just to the south of South Shields at the village of Marsden. You can park at the Souter Lighthouse car park off the A183 at Marsden Quarry to start your walk. Alternatively follow the traffic free cycle and walking path along National Cycle Route 1 from South Shields to the site. It's a nice trail passing Frenchman's Bay, Marsden Bay and the Leas. The park is also just a few miles north of Sunderland and can be reached by walking or cycling along the same National route. This route starts at the lighthouse car park and heads to the coastal viewpoint at Lizard Point. You then head west along the coast to Marsden Cliff and the Leas. Here you will find two and a half miles of magnesian limestone cliffs, wave-cut foreshore and coastal grassland. It's a fine cliff top walk with great views along the coast. After exploring the Leas the route turns round and returns to Whitburn Coastal Park. The park is a nature reserve with trees, a bird observatory, viewing screens and wetland habitats. There's also a new National Trust wildlife garden with ponds, wildflowers, trees, berry bearing shrubs, a bog garden and hibernation areas. The reserve is great for wildlife watching with cormorants, shags, kittiwakes, fulmar and herring gulls. At the end of your walk you can enjoy refreshments at the National Trust cafe. The long distance Great North Forest Heritage Trail runs through Marsden so you can pick this up to extend your walk. It will take you inland towards Cleadon Park and Boldon. View Full Details>> |
| South Dorset Ridgeway | 17 miles (27 km) | Enjoy wonderful views of the Jurassic Coast on this walk along the South Dorset Ridgeway. The route runs along the South West Coast Path from West Bexington to Osmington Mills with some beautiful scenery to enjoy. The area is also historically significant with several Bronze Age round barrows and Iron Age hill forts to look out for on the way. The immediate area contains about 500 archaeological monuments, nearly all of them several thousand years old. It's quite a challenging walk with several climbs, reaching a maximum height of nearly 800ft. From the elevated position of the path there are splendid coastal views to enjoy for most of the route. The walk starts in the village of West Bexington on the Dorset coast near Chesil Beach. You then climb away from the coast to the Hardy Monument, passing Abbotsbury Castle Iron Age Hill Fort and the Hell Stone neolithic dolmen on Portesham Hill. The Hardy monument was built in 1844 in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. It sits on Black Down and commands fine views to the coast. The path continues east, descending towards the village of Bincombe across Bincombe Down. Soon after you come to Chalbury Hill Fort and the Osmington White Horse. The distinctive figure is one of the highlights of the walk. It dates from the early 19th century and represents King George III riding his horse. From the white horse you descend to the village of Osmington. It's an interesting place with a church dating from the 12th century and dwellings dating back to the 16th century. The final section of the walk takes you from Osmington to the little hamlet of Osmington Mills on the coast. There's nice views of Osmington Bay as you finish your walk. If you wanted to extend your walk you could continue east along the coast and visit the beautiful Ringstead Bay. View Full Details>> |
| South Downs Circular Walk | 8 miles (12.5 km) | This terrific 8 mile circular walk visits some of the major highlights of the East Sussex area of the South Downs National Park. You'll take in Birling Gap, Seven Sisters Country Park, Friston Forest and the Cuckmere River and Cuckmere Haven. There's wonderful coastal views, riverside paths, woodland trails and some moderate climbs to enjoy on this varied route which is one of the best circular walks on the South Downs. The walk starts from the Birling Gap car park. This National Trust owned area has great facilities and includes the splendid Belle Tout lighthouse. From the car park you head west along the The South Downs Way National Trail. This section of the trail runs along the coast to Cuckmere Haven. This area has a nice shingle beach with wonderful views of the Seven Sisters Cliffs. There's also riverside trails along the Cuckmere River and a wide variety of flora and fauna to look out for. The route then heads north through the Seven Sisters Country Park. Here you'll find 700 acres of parkland with lots of great cycling and walking trails. The walk then turns east through Friston Forest, where there are miles of shady woodland trails. You can look out for rare butterflies and deer as you make your way through the forest. After leaving the forest you turn south, passing through countryside around East Dean, before returning to the car park on the coast. To extend your exercise you could head east along the South Downs Way and visit Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. View Full Details>> |
| South Foreland Lighthouse | 2 miles (3 km) | This walk climbs to the Victorian South Foreland Lighthouse on the White Cliffs above St Margaret's. It's about a one mile walk from the town up to the lighthouse with great coastal views and a visit to the lovely Pines Garden on the way. The route starts at the public car park at St Margaret's Bay and follows a section of the South West Coast Path up to South Foreland. On the way you will pass the coastguard office on Bay Hill before following St Margaret's Road and Beach Road to the Pines Garden. The Gardens are well worth exploring with a waterfall and adjoining lake, a grass labyrinth and an organic kitchen garden with around 40 different species of fruit and vegetables. The site also includes the St. Margaret's Museum. The museum features changing displays about local history including St Margaret's during WW2, and one-time resident Noel Coward. After leaving the Pines the path continues past the Grade II listed St Margaret's Windmill before coming to the lighthouse. The lighthouse was the first to display an electric light anywhere in the world. You can climb to the top of the structure and enjoy great views over to France. There's also a nice National Trust tea room for refreshments after your climb. An alternative route is to park at the White Cliffs visitor centre and follow the White Cliffs Country Trails along the coast to the lighthouse. It's a slightly longer walk at 2 miles. If you wish to extend your walk from the lighthouse you can continue west along the coast path and visit Dover Castle. View Full Details>> |
| South of the Landsker Trail | 62 miles (100 km) | This circular walk explores the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park around Pembroke. View Full Details>> |
| South Stack Lighthouse | 1 miles (1 km) | Visit this spectacularly positioned lighthouse and the wonderful South Stack Cliffs RSPB nature reserve on this walk in Holyhead, Anglesey. The walk starts from the car park a short distance from the lighthouse. You then descend 400 steps on to the island. It's a short but wonderful path with craggy cliffs and wonderful coastal views to enjoy as you descend. On a clear day you can see to the Isle of Man and the mountains of Ireland. After climbing back up the steps you can explore the South Stack Cliffs nature reserve on more splendid coastal paths. The reserve consists of heathland with wildflowers and an abundance of wildlife. Look out for coastal birds including Chough, Guillemot and Puffins. You may also see porpoises in the water below. Please note that although this is a short walk the climb back up the steps is quite challenging so you need to be in reasonable shape! To extend your walk you can easily pick up the Anglesey Coast Path and follow it along South Stack Road to Penrhosfeilw. In the other direction you will find Holyhead Mountain and Breakwater Country Park. Here you can enjoy a nature trail and wonderful views of the Irish Sea and the Skerries. The google street view link below will give you a great panoramic view of the area from the car park. View Full Details>> |
| Southend Millennium Walk | 24 miles (39 km) | Enjoy the coastline and surrounding countryside of this famous seaside resort on this interesting circular walk. You will pass beaches, the famous Golden Mile with its numerous tourist attractions and the longest pier in the world on the coastal stretch which starts at Southend Tourist Information Centre. Highlights on the walk include Southend's pretty cliff gardens near the start. The elevated park includes formal and informal gardens with beautiful views across the Thames Estuary. You'll also visit Hadleigh Country Park and the ruins of the 13th century Hadleigh Castle before heading inland through the attractive Essex Countryside, passing through Rochford on the way. You then return to the coast for another pleasant coastal stretch through Thorpe Bay before finishing back at the Tourist information centre in Southend. View Full Details>> |
| Southend to Leigh on Sea | 4 miles (5.8 km) | Enjoy a nice coastal stroll on this easy walk along the Essex coast. The route runs from the popular seaside resort of Southend to the town of Leigh on Sea, about 3 miles to the west. You start off on the front at Southend next to the noteworthy pier. The structure stretches 1.34 miles (2.16 km) into the Thames Estuary, and is the longest pleasure pier in the world. It includes the Southend Pier Railway which will take you to the pier head. There's also views of the Adventure Island theme park in this area. From here you head west passing the pretty cliff gardens which are worth a small detour from the front. The elevated park includes formal and informal gardens with beautiful views across the Thames Estuary. The route then passes Westcliff-on-Sea, Chalkwell and Leigh Cliffs before finishing at Leigh-on-Sea. Here you can catch the train back to Southend or return on foot if you prefer. View Full Details>> |
| Spurn Point | 8 miles (13 km) | This walk explores the splendid Spurn Point National Nature Reserve on the tip of the coast of the East Riding of Yorkshire. The narrow sand spit stretches for over 3 miles into the the Humber estuary. It's a special place, perfect for a coastal walk or cycle with dramatic scenery and huge variety of wildlife. There's much to enjoy with pretty beaches, sand-dunes, marshland and the striking effects of the changing tides. You can park at the car park at Kilnsea to start your walk/ride. Then head south passing the Spurn Bird Observatory and Kilnsea Warren, with fine views across Kilnsea Clays. You continue along the peninsula to Spurn Head at the tip of the reserve. Here you will find the RNLI lifeboat station and two disused lighthouses. As you make your way through the reserve look out for a large variety of birdlife. This includes rare birds such as the cliff swallow from North America, a lanceolated warbler from Siberia and a black-browed albatross from the Southern Ocean. More common birds include wheatears, whinchats, common redstarts and flycatchers. Several thousand birds can be seen in and around the reserve on a good day. You may also spot common seals and grey seals feeding and interacting in the month of September. It's a wonderful sight as the seals come right up to the coast so you can spot them without the need for binoculars. NB please check tide times before visiting the reserve as it is dangerous to walk to the end of the spit at high tide. To continue your exercise in the Hull area you could visit Humber Bridge Country Park and enjoy great views over the River Humber to Barton Upon Humber. The Trans Pennine Trail also runs through Hull so you could pick up the trail and enjoy a waterside walk along the Humber to Hessle. If you head up the coast to Hornsea you can enjoy a walk along the pretty Hornsea Mere which is another great place for birdwatching. View Full Details>> |
| St Agnes Head - St Agnes Beacon - Wheal Coates | 4 miles (6 km) | This circular walk visits St Agnes Head before climbing St Agnes Beacon and visiting the fascinating Wheal Coates tin mine on the Cornish coast. It's a beautiful area with yellow gorse and purple heather prominent features in the late summer months. The area also has a fascinating mining history with atmospheric coastal ruins dating from the early 19th century. It is often referred to as Poldark country because of the associations with the historical novels by Winston Graham and the television series starring Aidan Turner. There's a car park on the headland where you can start your walk. After exploring the headland the route then climbs inland to St Agnes Beacon. The hill stands at a height of 189m (620 ft), commanding fabulous views over the surrounding coast and countryside. After descending the beacon the route then heads to the Wheal Coates tin mine. The mine is one of the highlights of the area with dramatic ruins overlooking a beautiful coastline. It was opened in 1802 and closed in 1889 when the price of tin fell. The route then heads along the coast to visit Chapel Porth where there is a lovely beach. From here you follow the coast path back to the St Agnes Head car park. To extend your walk you can head south and visit the Chapel Combe valley and the popular village of Porthtowan. Heading north east along the South West Coast Path will take you to Perranporth. View Full Details>> |
| St Bees Head | 6 miles (9 km) | Enjoy a coastal walk on this beautiful headland near Whitehaven. The walk along the cliff top path from St Bees is an exhilarating experience with fabulous views of the Isle of Man and the Cumbrian mountains and coast. The area is also an RSPB Nature Reserve with the largest seabird colony in north-west England. These include Guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars and razorbills. You may also see dolphins and porpoises. The walk starts near the village of St Bees at the coastal car park. You then head north to Fleswick Bay where you will find a nice shingle beach surrounded by high sandstone cliffs. You continue to North Head, the most westerly point of Northern England. Here you will pass St Bees Lighthouse with views towards Saltom Bay and Whitehaven. You can turn it into a longer circular walk by continuing along the coast and returning on country lanes through Sandwith and Rottington. View Full Details>> |
| St Catherine's Lighthouse | 2 miles (4 km) | Visit the most southerly point on the Isle of Wight on this circular walk around St Catherine's Point and St Catherine's Down. It's a particularly lovely part of the island with steep cliffs, attractive woodland, grassland with wildflowers and stunning coastal views. The walk start from the Niton undercliff car park and follows footpaths down to St Catherine's Point via Knowles Farm. In 1901 Guglielmo Marconi, the inventor of the radiotelegraph system, succeeded in transmitting radio signals from Knowles Farm to the Lizard Radio Telegraph Station 186 miles away in Cornwall. The route continues around the impressive 19th century lighthouse, passing along the cliff towards Reeth Bay. Here you climb back to Knowles Farm and the car park passing the 16th century Buddle Inn. It's a charming Oldy Worlde Pub with outdoor seating and great views. It's roughly the half way point on the walk so an ideal place for refreshments! If you'd like to extend your walk you could pick up the Isle of Wight Coast Path and follow it to the nearby Ventnor Downs and St Boniface Down, the highest point on the island. You can visit the lighthouse by bike by following Regional Cycle Route 67 otherwise known as the 'Round the Island' route. View Full Details>> |
| St David's Head | 3 miles (5.5 km) | Widely considered to be the most spectacular coastal headland on the Pembrokeshire Coast, this stunning area is a must see when visiting the National Park. This circular walk makes use of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and other public footpaths to take you on a tour of the St David's Peninsula. You'll enjoy great views over the beautiful Whitesands Bay towards the nearby Ramsey Island. The area is also geologically fascinating. You will pass Carn Llidi, a huge jagged tor, towering above the coast. You can climb the tor for stunning views to the east. The route also passes the Neolithic burial chamber of Coetan Arthur which dates from about 4000BC. View Full Details>> |
| St Govan's Chapel | 4 miles (6 km) | This fascinating 13th century chapel is situated by the side of a spectacular limestone cliff on the Pembrokeshire Coast. This circular walk takes you from the delightful village of Bosherton to the coastal chapel, passing through the beautiful Stackpole Estate on the way. The walk starts in Bosherton with its fine pub, pretty cottages and 13th century Norman church. You then follow a nice country lane through the countryside to the coast where you can climb down the 52 stone steps to the little chapel. There's a doorway into the chapel on the north side, where you will find low stone benches and an empty bell-cote in a single chamber. The view out of the window towards the sea is wonderful. After leaving the chapel and climbing back up the steps you continue to St Govan's Head for more great coastal views. Look out for a variety of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes. The next section takes you from St Govan's Head to the sand dunes at Broad Haven. You then pass along the lovely Stackpole Lily Ponds where you can look out for waterlilies in the summer and wildlife which includes the resident otters. The final waterside section along the ponds leads you back into Bosherton. View Full Details>> |
| St Illtyd's Walk | 60 miles (96 km) | A religous walk from Pembrey Country Park (Carmarthenshire) to Margam Country Park (Neath). The path runs through Hendry, Pontardawe and Bryn.
You will visit Penlle'r Castell ruin on the summit of Mynydd y Betws (with fabulous views), the spectacular Melincourt Falls on the Neath River and the Vale of Neath. There are also splendid views of the Black Mountains and peaceful wooded sections near Abercregan. The two splendid country parks at either end of the walk are also real highlights on this challenging walk. Near Swansea the route also skirts the edge of the wonderful Cwm Clydach National Nature Reserve. View Full Details>> |
| St Ives to Zennor | 12 miles (19 km) | This is a popular circular walk from St Ives to Zennor along the South West Coast Path. It's about a 6 mile walk along the coast path with the option of returning through the countryside. It then becomes a lovely 12 mile circular walk. Most of the path is pretty good but there is some climbing and scrambling required on some sections of the path. There's wonderful coastal scenery with dramatic cliffs rising hundreds of feet above the sea, beautiful beaches and delightful coves. You start at St Ives head and then head west passing Porthmeor beach and the Tate Gallery. You then head to Zennor Head passing Hor Point, Pen Enys Point, Carn Naun Point and Gala Rocks. There are also views over to the Carracks, home to a colony of Grey Atlantic Seals. Boat trips to the island are available from St Ives. When you reach Zennor head you turn away from the coast towards the little village. Here you will find the Church of Saint Senara which dates from the Norman period and the 13th and 15th centuries. The return leg takes you from Zennor back to St Ives via some beautiful countryside. You'll pass Tremedda and Trevalgan before passing through the outskirts of the town and returning to St Ives Head. To extend your walk you can follow the coast path to the lovely Carbis Bay. View Full Details>> |
| St Mawes to St Just | 2 miles (4 km) | This walk takes you along a lovely stretch of coast on the Roseland Peninsula in Cornwall. It's about a 2.5 mile walk from the town of St Mawes to the village of St Just, with splendid views over Carrick Roads. The walk starts from St Mawes Castle. The artillery fort was constructed by Henry VIII between 1540 and 1542. It's an impressive sight with grounds stretching down to the waters of the Fal Estuary and great views across to Pendennis Castle in Falmouth. After exploring the castle you follow the coast path north to St Just in Roseland. The little village is well know for its 13th-century church and beautiful riverside gardens. To extend your walking in the area you can visit St Anthony Head Lighthouse and enjoy lovely views back towards St Mawes. Also nearby is the popular town of Falmouth where you can enjoy another great coastal walk to Pendennis Castle and the lovely Swanpool Nature Reserve. You can catch a regular ferry from St Mawes to Falmouth in the summer months. The long distance South West Coast Path also runs through the area. View Full Details>> |
| Start Point Devon | 2 miles (3.5 km) | This is a popular circular walk around this beautiful headland on the South Devon coast. It's about a 2 mile walk with great views over Start Bay, a visit to the lighthouse and the option of descending to a delightful secluded beach. The area is also great for wildlife watching. Look out for marine wildlife such as seals and dolphins, and birds including black-throated divers, gannets, kittiwakes and auks. Begin the walk from the Start Point car park, near Start Farm. From here it is a short walk along the coast path to the lighthouse. On some days you can enjoy a guided tour here and climb the tower to hear stories about storms, shipwrecks and lighthouse living . After exploring the lighthouse the walk heads along the coast path to Great Mattiscombe Sand. It is a steep climb down to the beautiful sandy cove where you can look out for Grey seals and basking sharks in the summer. The walk then heads north back to the car park. It's easy to extend your walk if you have time. You can head west along the South West Coast Path and visit Prawle Point, the southernmost point of Devon. Heading a few miles north will take you to the splendid Slapton Ley Nature Reserve. Here you'll find the largest natural freshwater lake in South West England, a lovely shingle beach and great birdwatching opportunites. View Full Details>> |
| Stepper Point | 6 miles (10 km) | This circular walk on the Cornish coast visits Stepper Point near Padstow. It's a lovely section of the South West Coast Path passing around the headland with great sea views, attractive countryside with lots of flora and fauna, interesting rock formations and nice sandy beaches. This walk starts at the car park at Trevone Bay but you can just as easily start from Padstow. Trevone Bay has a popular beach, a good cafe and car park so is a nice place to start your hike to Stepper Point. You can pick up the coastal path north, running past Gunver Head and Longcarrow Cove to Stepper Point. Here you will pass the Daymark Tower which dates from the 19th century. It was used as a navigational aid, designed to guide sailors into the River Camel. The route then turns south towards Padstow with great views over the Doom Bar at the mouth of the Camel Estuary. You continue along the estuary to St Saviour's Point before coming to Padstow where you can enjoy a stroll through the town and stop for refreshments. You could also visit Prideaux Place where you can enjoy a walk through the attractive grounds and deer park surrounding the 16th century house. The final section of the walk takes you through the countryside around Trethilick before returning to Trevone Bay. To extend your walking in the area you can pick up the Camel Trail or Saints Way which both pass Padstow. Continuing west along the South West Coast Path will take you towards Harlyn, Mother Ivy's Bay and Trevose Head. View Full Details>> |
| Strumble Head | 2 miles (3 km) | This circular walk takes you to this wonderful rocky headland on the Pembrokeshire coast. Strumble Head is a great place for wildlife watching with porpoises and seals regular visitors to the seas below. It's a lovely area with the well known Strumble Head Lighthouse and a beautiful coastline with views towards Dinas Head and Cardigan Bay. This walk starts off at the Strumble Head car park and takes you along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to Porthsychan before returning through the countryside on a country lane. The final stretch back to the car park has great views of the lighthouse for most of the way. If you'd like to extend your walk you could head south along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to the rocky volcanic outcrop Garn Fawr where you will find an Iron Age Hillfort and spectacular views of the surrounding area. View Full Details>> |
| Suffolk Coast Path | 52 miles (83 km) | A walk along the beautiful Suffolk coast from Felixstowe to Lowestoft. The walk passes through the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which covers 150 square miles in East Anglia and includes wildlife-rich wetlands, ancient heaths, shingle beaches and historic towns and villages. You will pass through Bawdsey, Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, North Warren, Thorpeness, Minsmere, Dunwich Forest, Southwold and Kessingland. Highlights on the route include the section around Leiston where you will pass the delightful Minsmere Nature Reserve - one of the UK's premier birdwatching sites. This section also takes you through the peaceful Dunwich Forest, the Walberswick Nature Reserve and the lovely National Trust owned Dunwich Heath. There's miles of footpaths through beautiful purple heathland and coastal views along the pretty Dunwich beach on this section. Near Ipswich you'll pass the delightful Pin Mill where you can see lots of little boats in the River Orwell and enjoy refreshments at the 17th century Butt and Oyster pub. View Full Details>> |
| Sunderland Point | 3 miles (5.5 km) | Visit this lovely peninsula in Lancashire and enjoy great views across the River Lune and Morecambe Bay. It's a hidden gem of a walk with the changing tides, coastal birds and pretty old cottages to see. Sunderland Point is located near to both Heysham and Lancaster. The Point is a great place for a peaceful stroll with coastal views, salt marsh, beach, mud flats, farmland and lots of wildlife to look out for. These include birds such as Curlew, Heron and Peewit. You can park at Potts Corner at Alderley Bank to being the walk. Footpaths then take you along the coast to the village of Sunderland Point where you'll pass a series of attractive Georgian houses by the quay. The area is also home to Sambo's grave. The master of a slave or servant called Sambo left him at Sunderland Point in the 18th century where he subsequently died in the brewery. The grave is a tourist attraction decorated with flowers or stones painted by local children. To continue your walking in the area you could visit Morecambe Bay or try the Lune Estuary Footpath. View Full Details>> |
| Sussex Border Path | 137 miles (220 km) | A fabulous long distance walk following the Sussex county border from Thorney Island in West Sussex to Rye in East Sussex. You begin on Thorney Island with a lovely section along the coast from Emsworth. The route then heads through the South Downs to South Hartingand Liphook before continuing to Gospel Green, Rudgwick, Gatwick Airport, Horley and East Grinstead. You then head through the beautiful High Weald, passing Groombridge, Bewl Water and Northiam before finishing in Rye. The walk is well waymarked throughout. Route highlights include a climb to the highest point on the South Downs at Black Down in West Sussex. You'll also visit the lovely Weir Wood Reservoir and the interesting Bodiam Castle. View Full Details>> |
| Swanage to Corfe Castle via Ballard Down and Nine Barrow Down | 8 miles (13 km) | Walk from the coastal seaside resort of Swanage to the village of Corfe Castle on this splendid hill top route in Dorset. This is a popular walk of about 8.5 miles which can be done in a day. It crosses the two well known local hills of Ballard Down and Nine Barrow Down with fabulous panoramic views to enjoy. Busses run regularly between Swanage and Corfe Castle so you can do the walk and then get the bus back. You could also return via the Swanage steam railway. The walk starts on the front in Swanage close to the town centre. You then follow a section of the South West Coast Path up to Ballard Point. You then follow the Purbeck Way west to Studland Hill and Ballard Down. From the elevated position on the down there are splendid views of Old Harry Rocks, Studland, Poole Harbour, the Isle of Wight and Swanage. In the summer there are lots of wildflowers with the Adonis Blue butterfly to look out for. The area is also popular with mountain bikers as the grassy hills are great to ride down. After climbing across the down you descend towards Ulwell before climbing towards Godslington Hill and Nine Barrow Down. The down reaches a height of 199 m (653 ft) with fabulous views towards Corfe Castle. The final section is a lovely descent into Corfe Castle, passing Brenscombe Hill, Rollington Hill and Challow Hill. Here you can enjoy refreshments and explore the fascinating ruins of the 11th century castle. View Full Details>> |
| Swyre Head | 2 miles (2.5 km) | Visit the highest point of the Purbeck Hills on this coastal walk in Dorset. On a clear day the views are simply breathtaking in all directions. There is a car park at the end of West Street about a mile south west of the village of Kingston. This short route to the summit starts from here but you could also start from the village if you prefer. If you're coming by public transport then starting from Corfe Castle is a good option. All these start points make use of a section of the The Hardy Way to take you to the hill summit. It's a great spot standing at an elevation of 208 m (682 ft) and commanding views as far as Dartmoor and the Isle of Portland near Weymouth. The Isle of Wight, Lulworth Cove, Poole Harbour and much of the Purbeck Hills are also visible on a clear day. If you feel like extending your walk you can continue along the Hardy Way to Kimmeridge Bay where there are rock pools with a variety of marine wildlife. Here there is also a nice circular walk to Chapmans Pool to try. View Full Details>> |
| Teignmouth and Dawlish Way | 17 miles (27 km) | These two lovely coastal towns are connected by this popular walk devised by Teignmouth and Dawlish Ramblers. The walk begins at Teignmouth pier and heads inland through some beautiful countryside and pretty villages before heading back to the coast at Dawlish. The last section returns you to Teignmouth via Holcombe. To extend your walking in the area you can pick up the Dawlish Sea Wall and head north east to Dawlish Warren. Here you will find a lovely nature reserve on the Exe Estuary with a huge variety of waders to look out for. You can also pick up the Exe Valley Way at Dawlish Warren. Follow it north and it will take you into Exteter along the River Exe and the Exeter Canal. View Full Details>> |
| Teignmouth to Dawlish Railway Walk | 3 miles (5 km) | This popular coastal walk follows the South Devon Railway Sea Wall from Teignmouth to Dawlish. The railway was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and opened by the South Devon Railway Company, running from Exeter St Davids railway station to Teignmouth railway station on 30 May 1846. View Full Details>> |
| Tenby to Lydstep | 6 miles (9.6 km) | A popular walk along a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from Tenby to Lydstep Point. Starting at Tenby Castle follow the coast path south west along the lovely South Beach. You then climb to Giltar Point where there's nice views along the cliffs. The path continues west along the cliffs to the beautiful Lydstep Haven. It's a really lovely spot with a nice beach and a holiday park. The path then heads out to Lydstep Point where there are fine views to Lundy Island and the Somerset coast. Also look out for pretty wildflowers in the summer months and wildlife including dolphins and porpoises. The final section takes you away from the coast to the little hamlet of Lydstep where you can enjoy refreshments at the cafe before catching the bus back to Tenby. To explore the area to the north of Tenby try the Tenby to Saundersfoot Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Tenby to Saundersfoot Walk | 5 miles (8 km) | A popular walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from Tenby to the neighbouring village of Saundersfoot. There's much to enjoy with exhilarating cliff top paths, beautiful beaches, woodland sections and fabulous coastal views. It's about a 5 mile walk on an undulating path, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. The walk starts on the front in Tenby and takes you past Paragon Beach, Castle Beach and St Catherine's Island. The island is reachable at low tide and contains St Catherine's Fort, a Grade II listed 19th century Palmerston Fort. There's lovely views across to the island on the opening section of the walk. The coastal path then takes you past the medieval Tenby Castle. The ruined fortification dates from the 13th century and includes a circular walk following the line of the original curtain walls. It is also home to Tenby Museum & Art Gallery. After exploring the castle the route heads north along the coast path to Monkstone Beach, passing Lodge Valley woodland on the way. You can visit the secluded beach on some steep steps. It's a peaceful place to escape the crowds. After rounding Monkstone Point the walk continues north through Rhode Wood before coming into Saundersfoot. The village is a very popular destination with its lovely harbour and wide blue flag beach. The train station is a little way out of the town. You can follow a country lane to the station and catch a train directly back to Tenby if you like. There's also regular buses from the village. If you would like to extend the walk you can continue along the coast path to Amroth. Here you can visit the National Trust's Amroth and Colby Woodland Garden. You can pick up the long distance Knights Way in Amroth and follow it north to the gardens. If you head in the other direction you can visit the beautiful Lydstep Haven on the Tenby to Lydstep Walk. View Full Details>> |
| Thames Estuary Trail | 115 miles (185 km) | Explore the Thames Estuary on this walk through Essex and Kent. View Full Details>> |
| Thanet Coastal Path | 20 miles (32 km) | Travel from Reculver to Pegwell Bay and enjoy bays, beaches and spectacular cliffs along this beautiful coastal path. The walk passes through several delightful coastal towns and villages including Birchington, Westgate on Sea, Margate and Ramsgate before finishing at the lovely Pegwell Bay. Route highlights include the variety of coastal wildlife, the popular Botany Bay and the attractive harbours at Margate and Ramsgate. You'll also pass the delightful town of Broadstairs with its strong connections to Charles Dickens and wonderful views over Viking Bay. View Full Details>> |
| The Hangman Hills | 5 miles (7.5 km) | A challenging circular walk visiting Little Hangman and Great Hangman Hills near Combe Martin in Devon. The walk starts in Combe Martin and heads east to Little Hangman Hill via Lester Point. You continue by climbing the 1044 feet (318 metres) high Great Hangman Hill. It is England's highest sea cliff and the highest point on the South West Coast Path. At the summit you wil find a cairn and can enjoy fabulous views over the surrounding coast and countryside. The route then descends through the countryside to Knap Down, before returning to Combe Martin. Here you can wander through the pretty village, admire the beautiful Combe Martin Bay and reward yourself with refreshments at one of the excellent pubs. There's also fine views over Holdstone Down and towards Lundy Island. In the summer months look out for pretty flowers such as primroses and violets and wildlife including warblers and various coastal birds. If you would like to extend your walking in the area then you could head east along the coast to the lovely Heddon Valley. Here you will find riverside walking trails and the imposing cliffs of Heddon's Mouth. View Full Details>> |
| Thorney Island | 9 miles (15 km) | Enjoy a coastal circular walk around this beautiful peninsula in Chichester Harbour. The 9.5 mile walk starts from Emsworth, near the train station. From here you can pick up the Sussex Border Path long distance footpath to take you south towards the marina. View Full Details>> |
| Three Cliffs Bay | 4 miles (6 km) | This circular walk visits the stunning Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower Peninsula before exploring the adjacent woodland of Nicholaston Burrows. It's an exceptionally beautiful area with the view over Three Cliffs Bay nominated for 'Britain's Best View' in a recent television programme. The area includes sand dunes, salt marsh and the signature three limestone cliffs. The lovely stream of Pennard Pill also flows into the middle of the bay. You can continue your walk along the cliff top to the pretty Nicholaston Burrows where you will find woodland trails and interesting flora such as bloody cranesbill, pyramidal orchids and a number of lichen species.
This circular walk starts in the little village of Penmaen and descends to Penmaen Burrows where you will find the remains of a Neolithic burial chamber and a medieval church. You then head west to Nicholaston Burrows, passing the Nicholaston Pill stream and enjoying great views over Oxwich Bay. If you would like to continue your walking in the area then you could pick up the Gower Way long distance walk or climb the sandstone ridge of Cefn Bryn for magnificent views over the area. The Pennard Castle Walk will take you to the nearby ruins of a 12th century grade II listed building and scheduled ancient monument with a fascinating history stretching back several centuries. View Full Details>> |
| Torquay to Babbacombe | 6 miles (9.5 km) | This is a popular coastal walk from Torquay to the lovely Babbacombe Downs. It's about a 6 mile hike along an undulating section of the South West Coast Path. The route is fairly flat but there are some moderate climbs so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Along the way there's wonderful cliff top views, pretty beaches and some nice woodland sections. At Babbacombe you'll find the Babbacombe Model Village, a pretty cliff top green and the Babbacombe Cliff Railway which will take you down to the attractive Oddicombe Beach. You can either return the same way or catch the bus back to Torquay. The route starts on Corbyn Beach in Torquay, just a short hop from the train station. You head east along a pretty stretch of the English Riviera, passing the Grand Hotel and the marina with its rows of boats and yachts. You continue past Meadfoot Beach to the headland at Hope's Nose. Here you will find an area of geological significance with limestone rocks, lots of fossils and great views. From Hope's Nose you turn north to Black Head before passing along the lovely Babbacombe cliff top path with well laid out gardens and more great views. To extend the walk you can continue north to Maidencombe and Teignmouth, where you can enjoy a riverside walk along the River Teign. If you head along the other coast you can visit Paignton and Brixham on the Torquay to Brixham Walk. Also in Torquay is Cockington Country Park with its ornamental lakes, woodlands and formal gardens. View Full Details>> |
| Treginnis Peninsula | 6 miles (9.5 km) | This circular walk explores the beautiful coastline and fascinating geological features of the Treginnis Peninsula in the Pembrokeshire National Park. You will pass the oldest volcanic rocks in Wales, formed over 600 million years ago. It's a particularly beautiful stretch of coast with wonderful views over to the nearby Ramsey Island. It's also a great area for wildlife watching. Look out for birds including Peregrine, Oystercatcher, Kittiwake and Shag. You may also see porpoises in the water below and deer on Ramsey Island. The walk starts at the Porth Clais car park and follows country lanes towards Treginnis Lodge where there are super views towards Skomer Island and St Bride's Bay. Just past Treginnis Lodge you turn right off the country lane at the sign for Pencnwc Farm, and head north towards Porthstinian/St Justinian. At St Justinian you will pass the RNLI station, the Grade I listed ruined chapel and the small harbour where you can catch boats to Ramsey Island. At St Justinian you pick up the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and head south passing the Iron Age hillfort of Castell Heinif and Seal Bay where you can look out for seal pups in late summer and early autumn. You then head east along the coast passing Porthlysgi Bay with views of Skomer Island, Midland Isle and the Marloes Peninsula in the distance. View Full Details>> |
| Trevose Head | 5 miles (7.8 km) | This is a circular walk around a wonderful coastal headland near Padstow with wonderful views along the length of the north Cornwall coast. There's a car park at the north western end of the headland near to the Trevose Head Lighthouse. From here you can pick up the South West Coast Path to take you past the lighthouse and Dinas Head. The path continues around Mother Ivey's Bay to the little village of Harlyn where there is a nice beach at the pretty Harlyn Bay. The bay is a nice place to stop and watch the surfers. From here you can follow country lanes west to Constantine Bay where there's another lovely beach and sand dunes. Head north from here and you will pass Booby's Bay before returning to the car park. Features on the walk include the wild asparagus growing at Dinas Head, interesting rock formations on the cliffs and the secluded bathing beach at Mother Ivey's Bay. Look out for wildlife including fulmar, razorbill and guillemot as you make your way around this beautiful headland. You can extend your walk by continuing east along the coastal path to Stepper Point just north of Padstow. Here you will find the 19th century Daymark Tower and fine views over the Camel Estuary. View Full Details>> |
| Two Tree Island | 2 miles (3 km) | This expansive nature reserve in Leigh-on-Sea covers 257 hectares (640 acres). The site is located just a few miles along the coast from Southend and contains miles of nice walking trails. View Full Details>> |
| Undercliff Walk Brighton | 3 miles (5 km) | Follow the Undercliff Walk from Brighton Marina to Saltdean on this exhilarating coastal walk or cycle. View Full Details>> |
| Valeways Millennium Heritage Trail | 65 miles (105 km) | Follow the Valeways Millennium Heritage Trail on this long circular walk through the Vale of Glamorgan. The epic route includes a splendid coastal section along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast and visits a series of lovely Welsh towns and villages. The route runs through Peterston-super-Ely, Barry, Cowbridge, Llantwit Major, St Brides Major and Llanharry, Ewenny Priory and St. Fagans. It includes a waterside section along the River Ely as you pass the through the beautiful Ely Valley. You will also pass through the lovely Porthkerry Country Park near Barry, while visiting the historic castles at Boverton and St Donat's. This section runs along the beautiful Glamorgan Heritage Coast and visits the lighthouse at the picturesque Nash Point too. View Full Details>> |
| Valley of the Rocks | 4 miles (6.2 km) | This walk visits the amazing Valley of the Rocks in the Exmoor National Park. The dry valley contains the geological marvels known as the Lynton Beds. These ancient rocks are a spectacular sight and hugely popular with walkers. View Full Details>> |
| Wallasea Island | 9 miles (14.5 km) | This walk visits the lovely Wallasea Island on the Essex coast. View Full Details>> |
| Walton on the Naze Crag Walk | 4 miles (6.5 km) | This walk visits the new Crag Walk coastal defence system in Walton on the Naze before heading along the seafront in the Essex town. View Full Details>> |
| Wantsum Walk | 19 miles (30 km) | This is a super walk from Herne Bay to Birchington which includes both coastal and riverside stretches. View Full Details>> |
| Warkworth to Alnmouth | 3 miles (5.5 km) | This is another splendid stretch of the Northumberland Coast Path, with a historic castle, beautiful beaches, interesting villages and lovely bays to enjoy. View Full Details>> |
| Wembury Point | 3 miles (5 km) | This delightful area near Plymouth has recently been restored by the National Trust. It's a lovely stretch of coast and countryside with a good footpath and wonderful views of the Yealm Estuary, the Mewstone, Plymouth Breakwater and onto Rame Head in Cornwall. View Full Details>> |
| Wessex Ridgeway | 137 miles (221 km) | This wonderful trail runs from Marlborough in Wiltshire to Lyme Regis on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. You will pass: - Overton Down - The mystical Avebury Stones - The White Horse at Bratton - Wardour Castle ruins - Ibberton Hill with splendid views -The Vale of Pewsey - Salisbury Plain - Pilsdon Pen - with panoramic views of Marshwood Vale -Lewesdon Hill the highest point in the county of Dorset. - Cerne Abbas Giant - the mysterious figure on Giant Hill in Dorset thought to have been created in the 17th century - Win Green Hill, the highest point in the Cranborne Chase AONB -Bulbarrow Hill - this Iron Age Hill fort near Blandform Forum command wonderful views over Blackmore Vale. Roundway Hill - the site of a 1643 Civil War battle, also includes the Oliver's Castle Iron Age Hillfort. View Full Details>> |
| West Bay to Seatown | 3 miles (4.82 km) | A lovely section of the Jurassic Coast between the Dorset villages of West Bay and Seatown. It's just over 3 miles and includes a substantial climb to Thorncombe Beacon and Doghouse Hill. View Full Details>> |
| West Somerset Coast Path | 25 miles (40 km) | Follow the beautiful Somerset coast through the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on this lovely coastal walk. The walk begins at the car park at Steart, next to the wildlife rich Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve Nature Reserve and the Steart Marshes. You then follow the path west, along the coast, to the town of Watchet with its pretty harbour and piers. From Watchet, you continue to Minehead along Blue Anchor Bay and Dunster Beach Nature Reserve. Here you could take a short detour inland and visit Dunster Castle where there is a lovely large deer park. View Full Details>> |
| West Wittering and East Head | 10 miles (16 km) | The pretty village of West Wittering has lovely coastal footpaths to try. You can park at the beach car park and then follow paths along the beach and onto the National Trust owned East Head. Here you can stroll through shingle, sandy beach and a delightful sand dune habitat. The area is great for wildlife with skylarks, ringed plover and common seals to look out for. There's also lots of pretty wildflowers and great views over Chichester Harbour to Hayling Island. After exploring the dunes you can head north along the New Lipchis Way to West Itchenor. It's about a 4 mile walk along a pretty coast path with lovely views all the way. If you would like to extend your walk you could catch the ferry from West Itchenor to Bosham and then explore Chichester Harbour and Thorney Island. You could also continue east along the New Lipchis Way to Birdham where you can visit Chichester Marina. Heading south east takes you to East Wittering, Bracklesham Bay and the Medmerry RSPB Nature Reserve, where there are some excellent wildlife spotting opportunites. View Full Details>> |
| Whitby to Robin's Hood Bay | 6 miles (10 km) | This coastal walk follows a popular section of the Cleveland Way from Whitby to Robin's Hood Bay. It's a beautiful stretch of coast with pretty bays and cliff top views. The walk runs for about 7 miles on generally good, waymarked footpaths. The walk starts in Whitby on the River Esk and heads to Whitby Abbey. The atmospheric ruined abbey overlooks the North Sea on the East Cliff above Whitby. It's a very photogenic spot with the abbey ruins surrounded by coast, river and countryside. The route continues to Saltwick Bay and the Whitby Lighthouse, before passing Oakham Beck and Rain Dale. Soon after you come to the fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay. The village is very picturesque with lots of old fishermen's cottages. You could return the same way or turn it into a circular walk by following a track inland to Hawsker and Stainsacre. The trail can be picked up in the village just to the west of the coast path. To extend your walk you can continue along the coast path to Ravenscar and visit Harwood Dale Forest. There's lots of footpaths and bridleways to explore the coniferous woodland with its pine and spruce trees, streams and ponds. You can also try the Ravenscar to Robin Hoods Bay Circular Walk which perfectly combines some fine inland moorland scenery and the coast. Wainwright's Coast to Coast starts at Robin's Hood Bay so you could pick up this long distance trail and head inland towards Littlebeck and explore the North York Moors National Park. For example you could head just south of Littlebeck and visit the lovely Falling Foss waterfall. Heading west along the coast path will take you to Runswick Bay where there is a delightful fishing village with a sandy beach and pretty little cottages. View Full Details>> |
| Whitby to Runswick Bay Walk | 8 miles (12.5 km) | A splendid coastal walk along a section of the Cleveland Way from Whitby to the lovely Runswick Bay. There's stunning beaches, dramatic cliff tops and the pretty village of Sandsend to see on the way. Starting in the town head north to Whitby Sands and then turn left to Upgang Beach. The walk continues west towards Sandsend where you could divert off the path to visit Mulgrave Woods. The woods are great for walkers with miles of tracks and the ruins of the Norman Mulgrave Castle. The route continues to Sandsend Ness, an old alum quarrying site dating from the 17th century. There's interesting geological features here in a moonscape style setting. The next stage takes you to Kettleness where there is a beach popular with fossil hunters. Dinosaur and ammonite are regularly found along the foreshore and in the cliff. The final section passes along Runswick Sands before finishing at Runswick Bay. The delightful fishing village is a highlight of the Yorkshire coast with its sandy beach, sheltered bay and pretty little cottages. The white thatched property on the seafront is the only remaining thatched house on the Yorkshire coast. You can enjoy refreshments at one of the many cafes or hotels with lovely views over the bay. After exploring the village you can catch a bus directly back to Whitby. To extend your walking in the area you could head south along the coast path on the Whitby to Robin's Hood Bay Walk. It's another very popular section of the path with views of the River Esk and a visit to the atmospheric ruins of Whitby Abbey. You could also head north on the Saltburn to Whitby Walk. View Full Details>> |
| White Cliffs Country Trails | 28 miles (45 km) | This circular route takes you on a tour of the beautiful Kent coastline around Dover, before heading inland into the countryside. You start at Dover and pass the impressive Dover Castle and the famous white cliffs (explore with google street view below). Dover castle has fabulous exhibitions, winding tunnels to explore and shops and cafes for refreshment. You continue north along the coast passing the Victorian South Foreland Lighthouse, the lovely Pines Gardens and the beautiful St Margaret's Bay at St Margarets-at-cliffe, before arriving at Walmer with its fascinating castle and splendid gardens. View Full Details>> |
| Whiteford Sands | 4 miles (6 km) | This beautiful nature reserve on the North Gower coast has lovely walking trails through woodland and sand dunes with nice coastal views. View Full Details>> |
| Whitley Bay to Tynemouth | 3 miles (5 km) | Enjoy a coastal walk along the North East coast from Whitley Bay to Tynemouth. View Full Details>> |
| Whitstable to Herne Bay | 5 miles (8 km) | Enjoy a coastal walk between these two attractive Kent towns. It's a nice easy, five mile walk, using a section of the Saxon Shore Way. You can return the same way or catch a train back to Whitstable. View Full Details>> |
| Wirral Circular Trail | 37 miles (60 km) | Explore the beautiful Wirral Peninsula on this circular cycling and walking trail. The 60 km (37 mile) trail starts at the Seacombe Ferry Terminal and visits Wallasey, Hoylake, Heswall and Neston. Along the way there's splendid views over the Mersey to the city of Liverpool on the eastern side of the peninsula. At the northern end around Hoylake you can look out upon the estuary of the River Dee and the Irish Sea. On the western side you will pass West Kirby and the splendid Wirral Country Park with boulder-clay cliffs and more great views of the Dee Estuary and the lovely Hilbre Island. You can visit the island at low tide and look out for grey seals. Other highlights include Eastham Country Park on the eastern side of the Wirral. Here you'll find 100 acres of broadleaf woodland with surfaced walking paths and a cycle track. You will also pass the fascinating model village at Port Sunlight and the delightful village of Parkgate with its marshes and wide variety of birdlife. View Full Details>> |
| Woody Bay | 2 miles (3 km) | Explore this peaceful wooded cove and enjoy waterfalls, woodland trails and splendid views of the Bristol Channel. Woody Bay is located on the coast of the Exmoor National Park. The Hanging Water stream runs through the woodland with lovely waterfalls and interesting flora and fauna to enjoy. This walk starts at the car park on Sir Robert's Path and takes you through the woodland to the pretty little bay with its secluded pebble beach. If you would like to extend your walking in the area then you could head west along the coast to the lovely Heddon Valley. View Full Details>> |
| Worm's Head | 5 miles (8 km) | Visit this spectacular promontory in Rhossili on this wonderful coastal walk on the Gower Coast. Worm's Head is shaped like a giant sea-serpent and marks the most westerly tip of Gower. It's a unique place and one of the most fascinating features of this beautiful area of Wales. Start your walk from the National Trust's car park at Rhossili, where there's a visitor centre with lots of information about the area. You can then pick up the coastal path to Kitchen Corner where you descend to the Worm's Head causeway. At low tide you can cross the causeway on foot to reach Inner Head. You can also see the remains of several shipwrecks, wood from the wreck of the Helvetia being the most prominent when looking north from Rhossili. The causeway is only exposed for about two and a half hours before and after low tide, so please check the tide times before attempting the walk. After crossing the causeway you climb up to Inner Head which stands at a height of 47 metres (154 feet). Continue west and you will come to the wonderful Devil's Bridge, a natural rock bridge leading to Outer Head. To extend your walking in the area you can try our Rhossili Circular Walk which takes you around the headland with wonderful views of the beautiful Rhossili Bay and beach. The Rhossili Bay Walk will take you along the beautiful beach before climbing to the high point of the Gower on Rhossili Down. The long distance Gower Way also passes through the area. You can follow it east and visit the wonderful Cefn Bryn, an elevated sandstone ridge known as the 'backbone of Gower'. View Full Details>> |
| Zennor Churchway and Tinners Way | 30 miles (48 km) | A circular walk offering splendid views of the Cornish countryside and coast around St Ives and St Just. View Full Details>> |