All around the country, the British coastline features an array of walks for you to discover, each with its own unique history and stories to tell. Whether you’re after clifftop treks, bustling marinas or leisurely strolls across golden sands, there’s something for everyone. Take your pick from our edit of the best walks below:
Durdle Door and White Nothe, Dorset (7 miles)
The first of two walks selected from the breathtaking South West Coastal Path, the natural limestone arch of Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks. This hike allows you to take in the unique chalk stacks and arches along the path, with unparalleled vistas from the high points. A great walk all-year-round and both the sandy beaches of Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are dog-friendly.
For more information on the route, click here.
Padstow to Harbour Cove, Cornwall (3 miles)
The charming fishing port of Padstow is renowned for its glorious sandy beaches, clear blue waters and a vast selection of foodie delights. This circular walk begins in the harbour, allowing you to absorb the hustle and bustle, before picking your way along the winding streets and down to Harbour Cove, a quiet and often secluded sandy bay.
For more information on the route, click here.
Brownsea Island, Dorset (2-3 miles)
Settled in the middle of Poole Harbour, Dorset, you’ll find Brownsea Island, accessible only by ferry or private boat. The little island offers a gentle walk through heathland and along the coastline, with a castle, freshwater lakes and lagoons you’ll feel a million miles away from Poole. Keep an eye out for the famous red squirrels that make their home here!
For more information on the route, click here.
Penmaen to Three Cliffs Bay, Wales (3 miles)
The Wales coastal path is scattered with plenty of long, sandy beaches, which can make picking out a certain trail almost impossible. You’ll get unbeatable views across the Devon coast and Three Cliffs Bay, with a circular route across sandy slopes and rocky paths as well as quaint stepping stones and the ruins of Pennard Castle looming in the distance.
For more information on the route, click here.
The Souter Saunter, Sunderland (2 miles)
This is an outstanding stretch along the North Sea coast, with craggy rock faces and nesting seabirds. The iconic red-and-white Souter Lighthouse is a local landmark, as well as being the first ever built to be powered by electricity. It’s now open for public viewing - be sure to scale the 76 steps for gorgeous views from the top. Walk along the beach at low tide and discover the Marsden Grotto - a unique pub-in-a-cave that serves seafood and more.
For more information on the route, click here.
Holy Island, Northumberland (4 miles)
Advanced planning may be necessary with this hike, as the picturesque island is only accessible at low tide - unless you’ve got a boat! Home to a quaint village, the scenic 16th Century Lindisfarne Castle and the striking ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, there’s plenty to take in. Keep your eyes out for the grey seals that like to catch rays on the sand or the dolphins out in the bay!
For more information on the route, click here.
