Anyone for a 2,795-mile walk? When it’s fully complete, the England Coast Path will be the 16th — and by far the longest — National Trail in England and Wales. And just think of the riches in store for those who shoulder their packs and take it on: wild Devon bays, long Norfolk beaches, towering Yorkshire cliffs, and more sunsets, piers and proms than you can shake a stick of rock at. Oh, for six months to spare.
Fittingly, though, it’s taking a long time to finish. The first stretch was unveiled back in 2012, but completion — according to Natural England — won’t be until next year. Work continues apace, with the paths between Grain in Kent and Woolwich in London, and between Silecroft in Cumbria and Silverdale in Lancashire, both opening earlier this year. Or, to put it another way, there’s no shortage of coastal walking for you to get out there and enjoy this year.
North East
From the Scottish Border above Berwick (home to YHA Berwick) to the Wash, this coast is famous for beaches, castles and seaside holiday resorts. But there is plenty more to explore including tiny fishing villages in sheltered coves and rocky cliffs home to huge seabird colonies.
Learn more about the England Coast Path in the North East.
North West
From the Scottish Border near Gretna Green down to the Welsh Border near Chester (home to YHA Chester Trafford Hall) this stretch of coast offers a real journey of contrasts, passing the wilderness of the Lake District, the fun of Blackpool and the urban culture of Liverpool.
Learn more about the England Coast Path in the North West.
East
From the Wash to Thames Estuary, passing stunning wildlife and culture. Explore the sand dunes, market towns and villages all adjacent to stunning seascapes that can be enjoyed alone, with a canine companion or all the family.
Learn more about the England Coast Path in the East.
South East
Stretching from the Wash all the way round to Southampton this is a huge stretch of coast. From typical seaside towns with piers, beach huts and amusements to long empty beaches and nature reserves providing peace and reflection, there really is something for everyone. The 33-mile route from Shoreham-by-Sea to Eastbourne (home to YHA Eastbourne) was the first complete section of the England Coast Path in Sussex to open.
Learn more about the England Coast Path in the South East.
South West
From the Welsh Border at Chepstow to Southampton this section follows some of our most dramatic coastline. Linking coastal resorts, towns and villages it takes you along cliff tops, to the end of promontories, along piers and promenades and along estuaries. The following sections recently opened to the public: Sand Bay to Brean Down, Brean Down to Minehead (home to YHA Minehead), and Rufus Castle on Portland to Lulworth Cove (home to YHA Lulworth Cove).
Learn more about the England Coast Path in the South West.
Discover the England Coast Path.
Read next: Get involved with YHA’s first Festival of Walking.
Image credits: adobe / Rosana, S R Miller, Bernd Brueggemann, Paul Daniels, Razvan Vasile
