The UK is home to some of the most scenic coastal paths and beach hikes, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're craving dramatic cliffside views, windswept beaches, or a peaceful stroll through coastal villages, these top coastal walks will offer stunning landscapes and invigorating experiences.
1. South West Coast Path (Cornwall)
Distance: 630 miles (you can break it into sections)
Why it's great: The South West Coast Path is England’s longest waymarked long-distance footpath. Starting in Somerset and stretching along the coast of Devon and Cornwall, it offers dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. You can tackle sections like the Lizard Peninsula or St. Ives to Zennor for a taste of this beautiful route.
Must-see spots: The famous Land’s End, Porthcurno Beach, and St. Michael’s Mount.
2. Seven Sisters (East Sussex)
Distance: 12 miles (linear)
Why it's great: The iconic white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters offer one of the most striking coastal walks in the UK. The trail from Seaford to Eastbourne takes you over seven rolling cliff tops, providing panoramic views of the English Channel.
Must-see spots: Beachy Head, Birling Gap, and the South Downs National Park.
3. Pembrokeshire Coast Path (Wales)
Distance: 186 miles (sections vary)
Why it's great: The Pembrokeshire Coast Path in Wales is famed for its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and rich wildlife. Popular sections like St David’s Head to Whitesands Bay offer breathtaking views and peaceful solitude.
Must-see spots: Barafundle Bay, St Govan’s Chapel, and the Green Bridge of Wales.
4. Causeway Coast (Northern Ireland)
Distance: 33 miles (linear)
Why it's great: This walk along Northern Ireland’s Antrim coast is not only visually stunning, but it also offers historical landmarks. Starting at Portstewart Strand and ending at Ballycastle, you'll pass through the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its distinctive hexagonal columns.
Must-see spots: Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
5. Dorset’s Jurassic Coast (England)
Distance: 95 miles
Why it's great: The Jurassic Coast is England’s first natural World Heritage Site and offers walkers a chance to travel through 185 million years of geological history. The coastal cliffs expose layers of sedimentary rock, revealing fossils from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods.
Must-see spots: Durdle Door, Old Harry Rocks, and Lulworth Cove.
6. The Norfolk Coast Path
Distance: 83 miles
Why it's great: The Norfolk Coast Path offers more gentle landscapes than other coastal routes, with long stretches of sandy beaches, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. The trail winds through quaint seaside towns like Cley-next-the-Sea and Blakeney.
Must-see spots: Holkham Beach, Blakeney Point, and the Seals of Morston Quay.
7. Northumberland Coast Path
Distance: 62 miles
Why it's great: This stretch of coastal path is less crowded but equally dramatic, boasting beautiful beaches, medieval castles, and abundant wildlife. The walk between Bamburgh Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle is especially stunning.
Must-see spots: Lindisfarne (Holy Island), Bamburgh Castle, and Alnwick Castle.
8. Isle of Skye Coastal Walks (Scotland)
Distance: Varies (lots of options)
Why it's great: The Isle of Skye is renowned for its rugged landscapes and stunning coastal hikes. The Quiraing and Fairy Pools hikes provide dramatic coastal views and waterfalls.
Must-see spots: Neist Point Lighthouse, The Old Man of Storr, and Kilt Rock.
Best Gear for Coastal Walks:
When planning coastal walks, it’s essential to have the right gear:
Waterproof Jacket: Essential for unpredictable British weather. Consider the Berghaus Men's Stormcloud Waterproof Jacket for protection against the elements. Find it on Amazon
Hiking Boots: Good grip is crucial for rocky paths like Striding Edge. The Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Boots are great for this. Check them out on Amazon
Trekking Poles: Help reduce the impact on your knees. The FitLife Trekking Poles are lightweight and adjustable. Available here
Final Thoughts:
These coastal walks offer not just stunning landscapes but also a sense of adventure and discovery. Whether you're after the windswept cliffs of Wales, the geological wonder of the Jurassic Coast, or the charm of the Norfolk Coast, the UK’s shores have it all. Pack your hiking boots, bring your camera, and prepare for unforgettable coastal adventures. Happy hiking
Comments