South West Coast Path Exmoor
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South West Coast Path Exmoor

4.9
·159 reviews·, United Kingdom

England's longest National Trail, offering 630 miles of stunning coastal scenery from Exmoor to the Jurassic Coast.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn (Sept-Dec)

Quieter trails, hotel discounts

CrowdLow
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South West Coast Path Exmoor

South West Coast Path Exmoor

Best Time

Autumn (Sept-Dec)

Quieter trails, hotel discounts

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

England's longest National Trail, offering 630 miles of stunning coastal scenery from Exmoor to the Jurassic Coast.

4.9
(159 reviews)

"Beautiful walks, mostly quiet, lovely views - never disappoints."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Plan Your Sections

The path is 630 miles! Focus on manageable sections like Valley of Rocks or specific coastal towns.

⚠️ Watch for Signage

Signposting can be hit-or-miss. Download offline maps or use a GPS app to stay on track.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Valley of Rocks

Valley of Rocks

Near Lynton

Dramatic coastal valley with feral goat sightings. A scenic walk parallel to the sea.

Hartland Point

Hartland Point

North Devon Coast

Iconic lighthouse and rugged coastline offering breathtaking sea views.

Minehead to County Gate

Minehead to County Gate

Eastern Exmoor

Challenging inclines with stunning views, a popular section for hikers and runners.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Visit Exmoor's Coast

Visit between September and December for fewer crowds and potential hotel discounts. While sunshine is still possible, expect cooler weather. Spring also offers pleasant conditions with blooming wildflowers.

Navigating the South West Coast Path

The path is extensive, so plan shorter sections. Signage can be inconsistent, especially on less popular routes. Consider downloading offline maps or using a reliable GPS app to avoid getting lost.

Best Times

When
Autumn (Sept-Dec)
Why
Quieter trails, hotel discounts
Crowd
Low
When
Spring (Mar-May)
Why
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We are getting lots of interest in walking on the South West Coast path from September to December. This is such a great time to visit ; 🙉Quieter trails 💵 discounts on hotels 🍽️ quieter restaurants ☀️and still plenty of sunshine! ☀️ Get in touch with us for a quote and come and walk the paths at one of our favorite times of the year ❤️ #southwestcoastpath #walkingholidays #longdistancewalki...
encounterwalk
14 likes • 102 views

🎯 Plan Your Sections

The path is 630 miles! Focus on manageable sections like Valley of Rocks or specific coastal towns. Instagram+1

⚠️ Watch for Signage

Signposting can be hit-or-miss. Download offline maps or use a GPS app to stay on track. Reddit

The South West Coast Path @ Hartland Point 🌊. @jadesjc . . . . . . #devon #thesouthwest #traveluk #vanlife #travelingram #dji #alltrails #seaside #exmoor
alexdenvor
8 likes • 250 views
P.S you can also spot feral goats there! 😆🐐🇬🇧 Located in Exmoor, Valley of Rocks is an epic looking valley running parallel to the sea - making for a really scenic coastal walk!! It’s located along the South West Coast Path 🥾 & just 1km from the charming village of Lynton 🫖 SAVE for your UK summer adventures! 🇬🇧 #uktravel #traveluk #visitdevon #devon #exmoor #travelengland #uktraveller #vi...
cjexplores
1.9K likes • 81.2K views

🐐 Spot Feral Goats

Keep an eye out for wild goats, especially in areas like the Valley of Rocks! Instagram

🍺 Pub Pit Stops

Many charming pubs like The Blue Ball Inn offer great food and views, perfect for a break. Instagram

The South West Coast Path is our playground! We are based on the stunning North Devon coast where Exmoor meets the sea! Hiking is a huge part of the SUST! programme… and we are blessed to have this incredible hiking trail on our doorstep 😁 #thesouthwestcoastpath #hiking #exmoor #northdevon #susthealthretreats #ukhealthretreat
susthealthretreats
6 likes • 179 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Plan Your Sections

The path is 630 miles! Focus on manageable sections like Valley of Rocks or specific coastal towns. Instagram+1

⚠️ Watch for Signage

Signposting can be hit-or-miss. Download offline maps or use a GPS app to stay on track. Reddit

🐐 Spot Feral Goats

Keep an eye out for wild goats, especially in areas like the Valley of Rocks! Instagram

🍺 Pub Pit Stops

Many charming pubs like The Blue Ball Inn offer great food and views, perfect for a break. Instagram

👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed

Expect steep inclines and varied terrain. Good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety. Instagram

🏕️ Discreet Wild Camping

Wild camping is not officially permitted but can be done discreetly away from paths. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(159 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the South West Coast Path for its breathtaking views and diverse coastal scenery, with many highlighting the beauty of the Exmoor section. While the path is generally well-maintained, some reviewers note that signage can be inconsistent, leading to missed turns and challenging detours. The availability of charming villages and pubs along the route is also a frequent positive point.

"Beautiful walk, lovely views. Could be better signposted. We missed a turn onto the coastal path just after Talland, and ended up walking up a vertical road for what seemed forever, it was a serious challenge!"

Lindy Armstrong

"Such a great variety of coastal environments along this great stretch of British coastline. I walked along a stretch of this path in the beautiful Exmoor national park, I’ve also seen signs going through St Ives and Padstow. I’m so happy we can have wonderfully kept paths along the Cornish, Devon and Jurassic coastlines. Unless you’re a hiking monster you would probably only do part of this massive route. Even Gordon Ramsay likes this path as I saw him walking along it 2 years ago near Rock!

Great trek with nice villages, towns and plenty of pubs dotted along it, would recommend to any keen walkers."

R. Green

"Never disappoints. Beautiful walks, mostly quiet, lovely views"

Lucik

What People Like

Spectacular coastal views
Diverse scenery
Charming villages & pubs

What People Dislike

Inconsistent signage
Steep, challenging sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access points are numerous. For Exmoor, consider starting in Minehead or Lynton. Public transport options include buses to these towns, but services can be infrequent. Driving is common, with car parks available at various points like Kiberick Cove or Fowey main car park. Instagram+1

Traveling between sections can be challenging due to the remote nature of some areas. Local bus services connect some towns, but planning is key. Some visitors use taxis or arrange drop-off/pick-up points. Instagram

The Valley of Rocks is easily accessible from the charming village of Lynton, just a short walk away. You can also reach it via the South West Coast Path itself. Instagram

Yes, parking is available at various points, including National Trust car parks and town centers like Fowey and Lynton. Be aware that some car parks can fill up, especially during peak season. Reddit

While some towns along the path are served by buses, services can be limited, especially in more rural areas. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the South West Coast Path is a public right of way and is free to access. There are no entry fees for walking the trail itself. Instagram

Yes, several companies offer guided walks and challenges along sections of the path, including ultra-challenges like the South West Coast 50. Instagram

The South West Coast Path is open 24/7, year-round. However, daylight hours are important for safety and enjoyment, especially on more challenging sections. Instagram

Generally, no permits are needed for walking. However, if you plan on activities like wild camping, it's not officially permitted and requires discretion. Reddit

Accommodation can be booked in towns and villages along the path, ranging from hotels and B&Bs to campsites. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The terrain varies greatly, from gentle coastal paths to steep, rugged climbs with significant elevation changes. Expect uneven surfaces, rocky sections, and muddy paths, especially after rain. InstagramReddit

This depends entirely on the section and your pace. A short, popular route like Looe to Polperro might take 2-3 hours, while longer stretches can take a full day or more. Reddit

Many sections are dog-friendly, but always check local signage. Some areas may have restrictions, especially during lambing season or on certain beaches. Keep dogs on a lead where required. Reddit

You might spot seals, dolphins, various seabirds, and even feral goats in areas like the Valley of Rocks. The diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife. Instagram

Facilities vary. Larger towns and popular visitor spots will have public toilets and amenities. Smaller, more remote sections may have very few facilities, so be prepared. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Charming villages and towns dotted along the path offer pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Some sections have limited options, so carrying snacks and water is advisable. Instagram

Absolutely! Pubs like The Blue Ball Inn are popular pit stops, offering food, drinks, and stunning views, perfect for refueling after a hike. Instagram

In larger villages and towns, you'll find local shops where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and picnic supplies. Reddit

Both Lynton and Minehead are larger towns with a good selection of pubs, cafes, and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. Instagram

Definitely! There are countless scenic spots along the path perfect for a picnic. Just be sure to take all your litter with you. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire path offers stunning coastal vistas. Key spots include the Valley of Rocks, Hartland Point, and any high points offering panoramic sea views. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the most dramatic light and softer shadows, ideal for landscape photography. Instagram

Look for elevated points that provide expansive views of the coastline, cliffs, and the sea. The dramatic cliffs near North Hill are particularly photogenic. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sea and sky colors. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near wildlife reserves or National Trust properties. Always check local regulations and guidelines before flying. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The South West Coast Path can be a fantastic adventure for families, but careful planning is essential. Opt for shorter, well-signposted sections like the route from Looe to Polperro, which is popular and generally manageable. Reddit The 10 km family-friendly event at the South West Coast Ultra Challenge is also a great option for a structured family outing. Instagram

Be mindful of the terrain; some parts are steep and can be challenging for very young children. Look for sections with easier access and fewer sheer drops. Bringing plenty of snacks, water, and making frequent stops at scenic points or villages with amenities will help keep everyone happy. Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

Walking the South West Coast Path is inherently budget-friendly as the path itself is free. To save money, consider wild camping discreetly in designated areas, though this requires careful planning and respect for the environment. Reddit Visiting during the off-peak seasons (autumn or spring) can lead to significant discounts on accommodation. Instagram

Pack your own food and snacks to avoid frequent purchases at cafes and pubs. Utilize local bus services where available, as they are often more economical than taxis. Many towns offer affordable B&Bs or hostels, providing a good base for exploring different sections of the path. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Trail Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts

The South West Coast Path offers some of the most challenging and rewarding trail running in the UK. Events like the South West Coast 50 (50km with 1500m elevation) showcase the demanding nature of the terrain, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Instagram+1 Sections like Minehead to County Gate are known for their steep inclines and exhilarating descents. Instagram

For ultra-runners, the entire 630-mile path presents an ultimate challenge, with records being broken by dedicated athletes. Instagram Proper training, nutrition, and navigation skills are paramount for tackling these demanding routes. Remember to check for any race-specific regulations or route changes. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The South West Coast Path: A National Treasure

The South West Coast Path is England's longest National Trail, stretching an impressive 630 miles (1,014 km) from Somerset to Dorset. It winds its way through diverse landscapes, including the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and the rugged terrain of Exmoor National Park. This path is not just a walk; it's an epic journey through some of the UK's most stunning natural beauty. Instagram

Originally established as a route for coastguards to spot smugglers, it has evolved into a premier destination for hikers, runners, and nature lovers. The path offers a unique perspective on the British coastline, showcasing its raw power and delicate ecosystems. Whether you're tackling the entire trail or just a short section, the experience is unforgettable. Instagram

Recent efforts, like those by the National Trust's access team, have focused on maintaining and improving sections of the path, ensuring its accessibility and preservation for future generations. These improvements, such as widening and re-grading narrow footpaths, make the trail safer and more enjoyable for all walkers. Instagram

Exploring Exmoor's Coastal Edge

The Exmoor section of the South West Coast Path is particularly renowned for its wild beauty and challenging ascents. Here, the moorland meets the sea, creating a dramatic and breathtaking landscape. You'll encounter steep cliffs, hidden coves, and expansive views that stretch for miles. Instagram+1

One of the most striking features of the Exmoor coast is the Valley of Rocks, a spectacular dry valley running parallel to the sea. This area is famous for its towering rock formations and is often home to herds of feral goats, adding a unique element to the scenery. It's a popular spot for photographers and walkers alike. Instagram+1

For those seeking a more strenuous challenge, the stretch from Minehead to County Gate offers significant elevation changes and rewarding vistas. This section is also a popular route for trail runners and ultra-marathoners, highlighting its demanding yet exhilarating nature. Instagram+1

Tips for a Successful Hike

Planning is crucial for enjoying the South West Coast Path. Given its length, most visitors opt to walk specific sections. Research your chosen section beforehand, paying attention to terrain, potential hazards, and available facilities. Downloading offline maps or using a GPS device is highly recommended, as signage can sometimes be inconsistent or missing, especially on less frequented routes. Reddit

Pack appropriately for the unpredictable British weather. Layers are key, and waterproofs are essential. Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots are a must due to the varied and often challenging terrain. Don't forget essentials like water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and sun protection. Instagram

Consider the best time to visit. While summer offers long daylight hours, it can also be the busiest. Autumn (September to December) is often praised for its quieter trails and potential for hotel discounts, while spring brings blooming wildflowers. Instagram

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