Discover the South West Coast Path National Trail, a true gem of England’s heritage. Spanning 630 miles, this trek is a must for any avid walker. Since 2008, Macs Adventure has assisted walkers along this captivating coastal journey. Our hassle-free itineraries offer daily luggage transfers, enabling you to stride with only a day-pack in tow.
Whether you’re aiming to conquer the full 630 miles, (perhaps broken up over a few years!), or specific popular sections, we have you covered. Simply pick your route, and we’ll handle the rest.
Excitingly, we’re thrilled to unveil our partnership with the South West Coast Path Association. Our collaboration aims to rejuvenate pathways, safeguarding the natural beauty for future explorers. For each Macs customer on the trail this year, we pledge a £5 donation towards their upkeep. Join us in preserving this incredible experience.
Step into a Macs Adventure today.
macsadventure.com 0141 846 4756
It has been an absolute honour and pleasure to be involved in the 50th anniversary celebrations this year. The many highlights include the marvellous Trailblazer Walk, our first Photographer of the Year Exhibition, the Coast Path Forum, 630 Miles podcast, Beach of Dreams and World Trails Film Festival. As Director of the charity, I want to take this opportunity to thank all the team, volunteers, members and supporters who helped make these activities and events happen. Many people have gone the extra mile (no apologies for the pun)
in organising, leading, supporting and attending the wide range of 50th events – to all of you THANK YOU, you’ve helped make a real difference and helped us celebrate this amazing trail and the volunteers who champion it.
The South West Coast Path Association is a registered charity and volunteer-led organisation governed by our Trustees:
Chair: Bob Mark Treasurer: Kevin Thomas Ken Carter
The Trustees delegate responsibility for operational matters to the team led by our Director, Julian Gray. We work to ensure the Business Plan is delivered and our volunteers are supported in their endeavours to ensure the South West Coast Path remains one of the world’s great trails.
Issues directly concerning the South West Coast Path are co-ordinated through the Path Committee, comprising 12 Area Reps, three Trustees, National Trail Officer, SWCPA Director and chaired by Steve Church. The Area Reps work with over 50 Local Reps who together walk their section of the Path regularly, survey and report on the state of the National Trail and ensure our funds raised for path improvements are used where most needed. A map showing Area and Local Reps and their sections can be found on pages 34 and 35.
General Enquiries: hello@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Membership Engagement: Debbie Bakewell debbie@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Finance Manager: Wayne Mackney wayne@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Director: Julian Gray julian@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Business Engagement: Sarah Gunn sarah@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Impact Fundraiser: Will Keen will@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Head of Comms: Aletha Mays aletha@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Impact Comms Officer: Molly Palmer molly@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
National Trail Officer: Lorna Sherriff lorna@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Coast Path Connectors Project Manager: Alex Turner alex@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Coast Path Connectors Project Officer (Cornwall): Jack Greaves jack@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Coast Path Connectors Project Officer (North Devon): Huw Davies huw@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Coast Path Connectors Project Officer (Plymouth): Gemma Dunn gemma@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Coast Path Connectors Project Officer (Torbay): Stuart Riddle stuart@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Coast Path Connectors Project Officer (Dorset): Catherine Mason catherine@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
Call us on: 01752 896237
Design by: Tom Barnard | Print by: Deltor Communications Ltd
Disclaimer: Opinionsexpressedbyauthorsandcontributorstothis magazinearenotspecificallyendorsedbytheAssociation.Although everycareistakentoavoidmistakes,theAssociationdoesnotaccept liabilityforclericalorprintingerrors.
South West Coast Path Association Residence 2, Unit 11, Royal William Yard, Plymouth, PL1 3RP
This magazine has been printed using ink made from vegetable oil as a substitute for petroleum. These inks significantly reduce the amount of toxic metals and Volatile Organic Compounds released into the air during printing.
Cover photo: Trailblazer Walk by Jay Stone
David Morris Philip Spencer Katie Ash Hilary Dinsdale
Director's report from the 2023 Coast Path Forum
National Trails UK, A new voice for our National Trails
630 Miles – an Audio Journey – hear the latest King Charles III England Coast Path
Celebrating our Coronation Champion, Steve Church
Learn about the path improvements completed, planned and underway
Take the Rail to the Trail with GWR –sustainable travel
A visual diary of the epic Trailblazer Walk celebrating our 50th anniversary
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Getting Grizzly on the path with one of our Coast Path Friendly events
34-35
36-39
40
41-47
Our volunteer path reps
Coast Path Connectors project update
Focus on Volunteers –Sally Robins, marketing and events volunteer
SWCP Completers share tales from their journey
48 Shop and show your support for the Path with our beautiful bespoke merchandise
How
Meet Mike Hancock, one of our recent fundraisers who is giving back to the path
In memory giving
Welcome to the Autumn edition in our 50th Year as an Association.
The Trustees were delighted to meet with so many members, volunteers and supporters on the 50th celebration Trailblazer relay walks. Our walks in May and June were also attended by the Devon Lord Lieutenant, Members of Parliament, and many, many local stakeholders. A terrific achievement of organisation by our small staff team, who between them walked more miles than any of us. The weather for the most part stayed fine, our goal of raising an additional £50K for Path improvements was exceeded, we enjoyed plenty of positive PR to generate greater awareness of our work, and the finale at Royal William Yard was a fitting triumph, so a big thank you to everyone who took part.
The Board are very aware how challenging the cost-of-living crisis has become for so many people, supporter businesses, and wider communities. The Path provides a free, tranquil, space to unwind and relax. We all know how getting out on the coast and amongst nature is such a mental tonic for the stress of modern living, whether the intent is a local walk or longer hike which tests our stamina, always with the rewarding thrill of exploring new horizons. No day on the path is the same, weather and wildlife make every walk a new experience if you take the time to pause, look, and listen. I am delighted that the National Lottery Heritage funded Coast Path Connectors project to train walk leaders to introduce new, and often disadvantaged groups, to the pleasures of the coast path has made a great start and there will be articles and information on our website as this initiative gathers pace. Last year we faced many challenges, with a greater frequency and ferocity of storms causing damage to the path, despite this, staff, volunteers, rangers, and local stakeholders worked well together to repair the disruption and ensure the continuity and quality of one of the World’s great trails here on Britain’s doorstep. The Storm Damage Appeal, which many supported, underpinned these efforts and we were fortunate to attract several new legacies. The PR generated by the 50th Celebration year is essential to keep up our fundraising efforts and without doubt the bedrock of the Association’s financial security is you the members, so I would ask you to spread the word and encourage friends who are fellow walkers and nature enthusiasts to join. Without your steadfast support we would struggle.
At this year’s AGM we bade farewell to Graham Keene. A valued Trustee whose wise counsel and sound business acumen has served the Association well over many years as a former Chair of the Membership and Fundraising Committee and Chair of the 50th Anniversary Working Group. Graham has certainly left on a high-note. Now, fired by having taken the record recently as the oldest, should I say most mature, man to conquer Everest, Graham is devoting his energies to climbing more peaks. Lucy Daniel has also stepped down from the Board, but we are delighted that Lucy continues as a much-valued Local Path Rep and tireless advocate for the Path. We wish them both well and thank them once again for their efforts on the Association’s behalf.
Julian Gray, Director, South West Coast Path Association
The Coast Path Forum was an important part of the 50th anniversary celebrations as it gave local, regional and national organisations and stakeholders an opportunity to discuss issues impacting the Path and set out a vision for the next 50 years. The event was chaired by Sarah Mukherjee, CEO of the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment and Co-Chair of Natural England’s Landscape Advisory Panel. Sarah brought a wealth of experience to the role and steered the conversation between the audience and expert panel.
Five panellists brought different perspectives, covering some of the big issues lying ahead for the Coast Path. Samantha Richardson MBE, Director National Coastal Tourism Academy presented the state of coastal tourism and presented a vision of regenerative tourism. Rebecca Burton, Regional Director for the South West National Trust laid out the Trust’s ambitions for more nature friendly coastal land management. Jim McNeill Founder, Ice Warrior stressed the urgency of addressing climate change impacts. Ali Pretty, Founder, Beach of Dreams talked about the use of arts in connecting people to place and community engagement. As the final speaker in the introductory presentations, I focussed on the opportunities to leverage the designation of open access along the England Coast Path coastal margin to
also target this 900 square mile corridor for nature recovery –a Coastal Wildbelt.
The main part of the Forum was the Q&A session, covering different perspectives impacting the Coast Path: its environment; economy; and people’s journeys along England’s longest National Trail. The discussion shows that there is significant interest in a broad range of issues impacting the Coast Path corridor including: nature recovery; climate change mitigation; equity of access; health and wellbeing; tourism and local economy; affordable accommodation; active travel; and connecting communities and places. Two key themes arose from the discussion. Firstly, the intersectionality between many of these issues. Second, the different roles the Association, Trail Partnership and wider stakeholders can have in making a difference. These range from directly funding or delivering projects though to more broad championing or advocacy. Our challenge is to not lose momentum and keep the conversations and actions moving forward within the charity and wider SW Coast Path Trail Partnership, and across our various networks and wider stakeholder groups. The aim is to ensure by the next Forum in 2024 we have progressed across all these themes.
Our National Trails are a special shared asset, of which the UK should be rightly proud. They are golden threads that connect us to our protected landscapes, link town and country and offer everyone a chance to connect to nature, to each other and to ourselves.
Connecting us to beautiful landscapes like National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as well as offering chances to connect to nature, to each other and ourselves. While the importance of the 20 National Trails around the UK is reflected by their designation, those who care for our Trails have recognised over the years that there was a need for a national advocate for the National Trails. The National Parks have National Parks UK and National Parks England; the AONBs have the National Association of AONBs, but Trails by comparison were left behind. Enter National Trails UK!
The result of years of effort from many National Trail Chairs and Officers, National Trails UK was formally constituted in October 2021. Led by an experienced Board and a passionate Executive Team, National Trails UK is the independent champion for National Trails. We are a charity and a membership organisation, dedicated to the protection and promotion of the National Trails so that as many people as possible can experience the many benefits National Trails can offer. We will be working across England, Scotland and Wales to secure proper funding, political support, and strategic partnerships for all of the Trails and offer a place for our experienced National
Trails Officers and Partnership Managers to share best practice, coordinate their work and seek peer support. To ensure that we can quantify the many positive impacts the National Trails can offer, we will also be building a data and evidence set to show how the Trails improve health and wellbeing, support sustainable tourism and local business, and enable exploration of our shared past through arts and heritage projects.
We’re a young charity, and I hope to update you very soon on the work we’re doing on behalf of the Trails. We all know that National Trails are remarkable and deserve to be celebrated and preserved for generations to come, and we’re excited to work with you to make this happen.
Written by Polly Martin CEO, National Trails UKWe’re in the process of setting up our website, so to stay up to date with our work, please follow us on X @NatTrailsUK
Thank you to everyone that came and joined us for two days of celebrating in Royal William Yard, Plymouth. It kicked off with our Trailblazer Walk finale event (see pages 20-29), followed by the official opening of our inaugural South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year Exhibition, to our Coast Path Forum (see page 6), AGM and Completers Ceremony, plus the UK premiere of the World Trails Film Festival, it was an incredibly memorable and joyous occasion.
In June 2023, we finished our last, Active Devon funded, CAN project. For this final project we lead short accessible walks with the Stroke Association along the Coast Path in North Devon visiting amongst other places Northam Burrows, Westward Ho! Bideford Tarka trail and Fremington Quay. A great legacy to this project has been that we are now continuing to work with the Stroke Association, in a few of our Coast Path Connectors hub areas, developing our work on the lessons learnt from this project.
Between 2019 and 2023, we completed 10 CAN projects and worked with over 250 people aged over 55 in getting them on the Coast Path with social gentle exercise in Devon. These projects have been invaluable in enabling us to start making links with local communities, but they haven’t been without challenges! For example, in 2020 and 2021 we adapted our projects around the coronavirus lockdown and restrictions with smaller groups meeting up. However, the projects have had some great outcomes with many of the people who met on this project continuing to walk together such as in Exmouth and Torquay.
When we first mooted the idea of a SWCPA podcast to celebrate 50 fabulous years of the Association, I was somewhat nervous.
My only experience of podcasting was my own raw, unedited, come-what-may style of breathless, half-way-up-a-hill podcast, aka ‘Keeping the Sea on the Right’. That podcast was born out of my 630 mile through hike in 2022 and was aimed primarily at family and friends, although it did grow to have quite a following! Little did I realise at the time, I was to become a more professional, volunteer host of ‘630 Miles – An Audio Journey’.
It was incredibly important to me to ‘give back’ to the Association however, a charity with whom I now feel forever connected, and one which is truly valued by so many. Their quest to make our beloved path accessible to as many as possible is admirable, and their work is both essential and motivational in equal parts. So, the anniversary 630 mile podcast was born!
As I reflect on the last eight months, I now realise what a privilege and an honour it has been to undertake the role of volunteer podcast host.
We have, to date, hosted no less than twenty or so guests, each bringing their own unique perspective, insight, and love for all things SWCP. It is true to say that our listeners lives surely must have been enriched by the inspirational, educational and fascinating content; I know mine has.
Covering topics ranging from wellbeing and nature, through to creativity inspired by the path, there is something for everyone. And it’s not over yet! Four more exciting episodes are to follow.
The audience stats are fascinating, with UK listeners making up just under three quarters of our listeners, and the other quarter has seen audiences tuning in from the US, the Netherlands, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Namibia, and the list goes on. In fact, no less than 31 countries worldwide have tuned in. Interestingly, women make up 65% of our audience, and the most popular age category is 45-59yrs, with the over 60s and the 35-44yr old group coming a close second and third respectively. Great news that we are reaching so many, so far, and wide.
Now, behind the scenes, the podcast hasn’t come without its little traumas, last minute hiccups, and sometimes quite frankly, hilarious moments. The out-takes make for entertaining listening. But that has only added to the rich diversity of our episodes - I hope you’d agree! I would have been lost without the support of Aletha Mays, Head of Comms, who has worked so hard to not only curate our episodes, but also ensure our guests are where they need to be, when, and with the right equipment.
I shall be very sad when the series comes to an end in December, but I can look back and feel blessed to have had an insight into so many people’s lives and their experiences of the path. I hope our listeners feel the same! Now, whatever next?
RachelHadley-Leonard,Host,630Miles–AnAudioJourneyThe Association would like to say a huge thank you to Rachel who has been an integral member of our team during our 50th anniversary year – thank you for your time and commitment to the cause. PLUS a big thank you to Emma, Rachel’s daughter, who has edited the podcast and given her time to the Association. Catch up with the podcast at podcasters.spotify.com/pod/ show/southwestcoastpath
To commemorate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and in recognition of his regard for the natural world, the Secretary of State for the Environment announced on 1st May 2023 that the England Coast Path would be renamed the King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIII ECP). What does that mean for the South West Coast Path?
As the South West Coast Path is the original (and in our opinion the best) coastal trail in England we will still remain as our own National Trail and will be part of the KCIII ECP. When the idea of the ECP was first proposed the SWCPA immediately joined in the discussions with Natural England to ensure that the best improvements for the Trail would happen during the establishment of the KCIII England Coast Path in the South West. These improvements mean a few minor route changes taking the SWCP onto a more improved seaward route, such as at Rinsey Head or Porthoustock to Porthallow or where possible taking the trail off a road and into a neighbouring field or onto the verge. Many, but not all, of our suggested
improvements were then included in the KCIII ECP route. In general when the KCIII ECP is established and opened, the SWCP will be identical to it as far as the route is concerned. However in 3 places Barnstaple, Holywell Bay and the Plym Estuary the line of the SWCP will differ from the route of the KCIII ECP. The SWCP will continue to link into the local villages which provide important services like toilets, shops and cafes / pubs or areas of interesting heritage, which the KCIII ECP will miss out as it follows the most seaward route.
Walkers and users of the SWCP will notice areas of path improvements which have been completed through the ECP establishment funding with more establishment works to come over the next 18months. There will be very little change to the signage but you may spot some new roundels on waymarkers and fingerposts.
The whole King Charles III England Coast Path is due to be walkable by the end of 2024.
South West Coast Path Association
Annual General Meeting
Saturday 8 June 2024
Tithe Barn, Dunster, Somerset
Located near the official start of the South West Coast Path in Minehead, we hope that many of our members will be able to join us and will share more information as it becomes available. Stay tuned!
We are delighted to welcome Molly to the Comms team! Molly said of her new role at the Association,
“I am excited to continue the charity’s work of amplifying awareness of local businesses along the trail, increasing outreach and accessibility, and raising awareness of the hard work that ensures this National Trail remains available for millions of people each year."
Back at the beginning of May we were delighted to receive the news that our own Steve Church (SWCPA Local Rep; Chair of the SWCPA Path Committee; SWCPA Planning Advisor for Cornwall and general all round font of SWCP knowledge) had been crowned a Coronation Champion, a recognition by Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort as part of the official Coronation celebrations in conjunction with Royal Voluntary Service.
Steve has volunteered at the SWCPA since he retired in 2008. Before this, he worked in a local authority in the environment and countryside planning department and is a member of the Royal Town Planning Institute. Steve was invited to join the SWCPA as an advisor and became secretary and a Trustee in 2010. After 6 years being a Trustee he stepped down from that role but continued to be a Local Path Rep, Chair of the SWCPA Path Committee as well as our planning advisor for Cornwall.
Steve, who lives in West Cornwall, has a phenomenal knowledge of the Trail (which he is always willing to share) was recognised for his long-standing commitment to the Association and his passion and tireless efforts to keep the South West Coast Path a world class trail enjoyed by over 9 million people each year. The SWCPA especially valued the extra work that Steve put in over the past 6 years to ensure that maximum benefit has been derived in developing the King Charles III England Coast Path in harmony with the existing SW Coast Path National Trail to maximise the best improvements for the Trail. Steve was also instrumental in the planning phases of our 50th anniversary Trailblazer walk utilising his knowledge of the trail and experience from the 40th anniversary events to break the 630 miles into daily walks.
Our National Trail Officer Lorna explained "Steve has a wealth of knowledge for all aspects of the coast path. As Chair of the Path Committee he always includes everyone giving people time to share their views and efficiently drawing together objectives and agreement for projects that will enhance the experience of the coast path and increase use for new audiences".
Commenting on becoming a Coronation Champion, Steve said: "It's always good to have your efforts appreciated, and I'm obviously happy to have received this award. However, what I think is even more pleasing is that the award recognises the value and importance of the South West Coast Path to the community, and especially it celebrates the work done by the Association to benefit this wider community in a whole range of ways."
It’s wonderful that Steve has been recognised for his longstanding support and guidance for the SWCPA – A very worthy winner!
When out on the South West Coast Path have you ever wondered how it is managed and maintained? During our Trailblazer walks the team and path managers talked about the maintenance of the trail and many participants didn’t realise the amount of work that goes on ‘behind the scenes’ in order to maintain, and where possible, improve this world class trail.
So, firstly what is a National Trail and why is this different from other Public Rights of Way?
National Trails are long distance routes through some of the very best landscapes the UK has to offer. These routes are special as they have been designated by government and are managed to a set of quality standards that set them above other Public Rights of Way. Each trail is looked after by a dedicated team many of whom are volunteers – here at the SWCP we have over 100 volunteers who are the beating heart of the charity and without them the path would certainly not be world class today! As well as the dedicated team, each trail also has a trail partnership made up of local authorities responsible for the maintenance and enhancement of the path on the ground. Our partnership which is led by the SWCPA comprises of: Cornwall Council; Devon County Council; Dorset Council; Exmoor National Park Authority; Torbay Council and Plymouth City Council and our trail partnership also includes the National Trust who own and manage approximately 1/3rd of the SWCP.
With over 30,000 steps, 4500 signs, 1100 Gates, and 630 miles of path surface on the SWCP there is a lot to keep maintained each year. After our team of volunteer path reps have been out and surveyed the trail in the winter months, when the trail is naturally at its worst due to the wet weather conditions, we provide condition reports to our partners and work together to improve the trail. Our 22/23 survey results showed that 15% of steps, 25% of signs, and 12% of gates were not reaching the standard. Some of these could be simple fixes like repainting arrow waymarkers or replacing a single step board but some are more complex and costly and take time and working in partnership to achieve the desired outcome.
As the route was designated by government each National Trail receives a funding contribution from Natural England to cover 75% of the costs to maintain the trail to the high standard. The remaining 25% is funded by our Trails partners, however the level of maintenance funding has remained static for the last 8 years and with the increase in inflation and material costs, as well as effects of climate change our partners are now having to fund around 40%. This funding is purely for maintenance and any improvement or enhancement projects have to be paid for with additional funding streams and here is where the SWCPA comes into its element by fundraising and applying for grant funding to support vital works on the trail.
Being a coastal trail we are at the forefront of climate change with increasing storm damage, combined with rising sea levels which are leading to faster rates of coastal erosion and in turn driving up costs of caring for the Trail. We are working with our partners to develop a future-proofing plan which includes looking at how we deal with ‘roll back’ (when the Path moves back from eroding sections of coastline), as well as identifying
potential future diversions on sections of the trail which cannot be simply moved back away from the cliff. By identifying issues in advance, we can cost out and plan developments to the Trail to ensure it remains accessible for future generations.
So please remember our work is only possible thanks to the wonderful people who recognise the value of the Path and choose to give back to it by; joining as a member, making a donation, purchasing an item from our online shop, fundraising for us, or leaving a gift in their will. We are also supported by our Way Maker businesses and our Coast Path Friendly events companies. All these funds contribute to our vital work to keep our precious Coast Path open and accessible for as many people as possible for now and for future generations.
On the 11th July the Tamara Coast to Coast Way, that stretches between the South and North coast in the South-West officially opened. The 87mile walking route established by the Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme, broadly follows the River Tamar, the historic boundary between Devon and Cornwall from sea to source, before continuing on to the North coast. It begins at Cremyll, overlooking Plymouth Sound and finishes at Marsland Mouth near Morwenstow. Linking the two coasts and connecting into the existing South West Coast Path the Coast to Coast Way has also created a new 387-mile circuit of Cornwall the Kylgh Kernow. For further information visit www.tamarvalley.org.uk/walking
Tinsey Head is a section of the coast path managed by the National Trust between Beesands and Hallsands. There are a series of gates along the route, some of which now require replacement and improvement. The project would replace three old gates and renew them with hardwearing oak or chestnut gates. This is a well-used section of coast path which is often grazed by livestock so these improvements will allow easier access for people as well as improving the management of the livestock. Total project cost £1670, SWCPA Contributed £770.
Improvements to a section of coastal path to open up access to different user groups by improving surfacing, drainage and removing obstacles on approximately ½ a mile of very heavily used coast path to enable wheelchair/tramper/multi user access. This project has been designed with the support of the National Trust, SWCPA, Natural England and Cornwall Rolling Ramblers and weather permitting works will be starting in September. Total project cost £14,000, SWCPA Contribution of £6435 through support from one of our sponsors Athletic Brewing Two for the Trails funding.
Churston Cove is a very popular section of the Torbay coastline lying just west of Brixham. Leaving Churston Cove in the direction of Paignton involves a steep climb up a number of flights of steps of varying materials. These steps have been constructed at different times and no longer meet National Trail standards including some very high risers, missing or partly rotten steps, and missing revetments. There is also one wooden ladder stairway which has been repaired many times but is now past its useful and safe life. The improvement for this project will be: 32 new steps, 6 replacement steps, 1 new wooden ladder x 17 steps, 2 new stringers, 1 new revetment, 1 new handrail and tonnes of sand & crushed stone for surfacing and infilling. Total project cost £11,446, SWCPA Contribution £3500.
Scabbacombe South Slope is very steep and, when wet, very difficult to traverse safely. The worn path was adjacent to a landowner's stock fence which was being pulled over by walkers clinging on to it to keep their balance. This improvement project installed a zig zag path, digging into the slope to create a more gently sloping path with minimal cross gradient. There was a persistent drainage issue at the bottom of the slope, due to a spring, where existing drainage infrastructure was inadequate and this has also been improved as part of this project.
Total Project cost £4380 SWCPA Contributed £1825
The National Trust have completed works to replace the existing boardwalk from the main car park at South Milton Sands beach with an access for all compatible boardwalk and wheelchair seating area. This new facility enables access to the beach for many different user groups, and the addition of a platform (which can be removed if bad storms are predicted) allows people with limited mobility the opportunity to sit on the platform on the beach. Total cost £20,950 with SWCPA Contributing £2950.00 (£1000 kindly donated towards the Project from Totnes Ramblers).
This section of path had been badly damaged by water run-off. Having already installed a water diversion gulley at the top end of this eroded section and monitored its effectiveness the next step of the project was to reinstate the surface of the eroded section. The contractors regraded, levelled and surfaced the section as well as removing unnecessary steps in the process. Due to the presence of a gully grating crossed via concrete steps and narrow working area the stone surfacing had to be moved primarily by wheelbarrow which was a huge task. Total project cost £4,000. SWCPA Contributed £2,000.
This metal handrail was badly corroding and rusting and no longer fit for purpose. Due to the rocky outcrops and close proximity to the edge, it was agreed that a like for like handrail (kee klamp rails) would be best in this location as metal was easier and safer to install straight into the stone rather than attempting to dig in oak posts. The old handrail was removed and a new 20m section of handrail was installed Total cost £1810, SWCPA Contributed £905.
The project installed 2 new granite bridges to replace the existing end of life wooden bridges. The new bridges consist of 3 granite slabs resting on a granite bearer either end and supported in the middle by two further granite supports. The National Trust Rangers took a time lapse video so people can see how moving the large blocks of granite and building the bridges were achieved. Take a look at their Instagram page @ntwestcornwallrangers to watch the video Total £11580. SWCPA Contribution of £5790.
The Step Up appeal has funded 50 step boards for North Devon National Trust, 70 boards for South Devon – Devon County Council and Step Boards for the Churston Cove Project, Torbay. The Find Your Way appeal has funded 8 posts for North Cornwall Coast, 19 fingerposts for West Cornwall Penrose area, a stone waymarker in Purbeck and 6 fingerposts and 3 waymarkers for West Cornwall coast.
We were delighted to secure the support from a variety of businesses in the south west as part of our 50th anniversary celebrations. Here are just a few words from each sponsor about their involvement. Thank you to each and every sponsor, we couldn’t have achieved what we did without your valuable support!
We were thrilled to sponsor the South West Coast Path intheir50th Anniversaryyear.
We were thrilled to support the Trailblazer Walk andsupplysomemuch-neededrefreshmentsona veryhotdayinRoyalWilliamYardforthewalkers reachingtheirfinaldestination.AsaBCorpbusiness,it'sour prioritytonotonlycareabouttheintegrityofourrumbut toalsosupportourworkersandcommunitieswhichiswhy welovedbeingabletosupportthecharityinits50thyearand wereproudtobepartofsuchatrailblazingeventsocloseto our home."
Philip Everett-Lyons, founder of Hattiers Rum
It’s been a pleasure to work with the teamthroughouttheyearandto celebrate with members of the AssociationduringtheTrailblazer Walk.Someofourteamwerelucky enoughtobepartofthefinalday, carryingsilkflagsintoRoyalWilliam Yardwith100fellowwalkingenthusiasts. The atmosphere was electric and a fittingendtothe630-milerelay.”
Luxury Coastal, Sponsor of the 50th anniversary Coast Path Passport
WejumpedattheopportunitytosupporttheSouth West Coast Path Association's Trailblazer Walk. Wesourceourspringwateronlyamilefromthe BeesandsstretchofthepathandIpersonallylovethecoastal path.Iregularlywalkitwithmypartner,Catherine,and mydog,Peppa.Havingtheopportunitytosupportsuchan amazing cause on its 50th anniversaryisarealhonourand weweredelightedtohelphydratewalkersatthefinaleinthe RoyalWilliamYard."
Neil Graham, owner of Devonia WaterAtCotswoldOutdoor,weweredelightedtobethe lead sponsor of the South West Coast Path Association’s Trailblazer event. As a proud partner of SWCPA, we're here to support their work and ensure everyonecanenjoythisincredibletrail.Thatincludesjoining their 50th anniversaryrelaywalkofthe630-miletrail,which weknowmanyofourcustomersandkitspecialistshadgreat funjoining!Here’stothenext50years!"
Emma Wilcox, Partnerships Manager, CotswoldOutdoor
ActionChallengeweredelightedtosupportthe SouthWestCoastPathAssociationinits50year celebrationsandanniversaryTrailblazingevent sponsors. The partnership enables us to support the upkeep ofthepathsweusenowandinthefuture,notonlyhelping tosupporttheregionsweworkinbutenableustodeliver inspirational events that raise valuable funds for so manycharities."
Neil Munro, Active ChallengeGreatWesternRailwayweredelightedtobea TrailblazerWalksponsorandsupporttheSouthWest CoastPathAssociationinits50th year.Thetrainand trailgohandinhand,givingpeopleaccesstothebeautiful SouthWestCoastPathbothsustainablyandaffordably."
Great Western Railway
Macs Adventure was founded by CEO, Neil Lapping, and his desire to create more active and immersive ways to explore. We caught up with Neil to ask him about how the business grew from offering West Highland Way walking tours, to today’s diverse range of self-guided trips globally with a mission to empower their customers.
What inspired you to found Macs Adventure?
In 2003, I watched coaches arrive in Ullapool, Scotland. Passengers emerged, took photos, and left. I thought, there must be a better way to explore while supporting local communities. Inspired, I launched Scottish self-guided active holidays. These trips offered an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore while supporting local communities.
What future trends do you see in walking holidays?
With a global focus on sustainability and responsible travel, walking and cycling holidays are gaining popularity. These trips have minimal environmental impact, support local conservation efforts, and benefit communities along the routes. To address concerns of over-tourism, we're creating new routes in lesser-known areas.
There's a growing interest in slower active travel with time to explore history, culture, and people. Many are seeking renowned worldwide walks as a challenge.
We anticipate technology playing a greater role in active travel. Our app empowers travellers to navigate confidently and explore at their own pace without a group or guide.
(How) has the pandemic changed how people plan trips and the destinations chosen?
As active travel increases in popularity, many are booking earlier. However, it’s crucial we avoid overselling routes. We prioritise respecting the trails and surrounding nature, while ensuring our customers feel immersed. These locations have a natural limit that shouldn’t be exceeded.
For peace of mind, many travellers choose tour operators over DIY trips. They also have a greater appreciation for travel, from exploring their homeland to ‘bucket list’ journeys like the Camino de Santiago or Tour Du Mont Blanc.
Have you walked the SW Coast Path – if yes, what is your favourite section?
I first visited 12 years ago where I was based in Mawgan Porth. The section from Treyaron Bay to Mawgan Porth via Porthcothan amazed me. More recently, I spent 5 days walking, based in Falmouth and adored the Helford Passage to Falmouth, and Place Ferry to Portscatho sections.
How are you building resilience to climate change into your business model?
We're saddened by climate-related catastrophes in regions we visit. To mitigate risks, we diversify our areas and destinations. We continuously adapt, expand, and develop strategies to protect our business, customers, local partners, and communities.
In our pursuit of B Corp certification, we've partnered with e-Collective, a carbon counting organisation to reduce our carbon emissions through energy-efficient practices and optimise our operations for minimal environmental impact.
How is Macs Adventure supporting the SWCP and why?
We're proud to partner with the West Highland Way and South West Coast Path organisations to support the maintenance and sustainability of these paths. For every customer who travels these routes with us, we'll donate £5. These routes bring joy to many each year and we recognise their significance. While we innovate to meet customer needs, these routes remain integral to our business. We're committed to preserving them for the future.
Find out more macsadventure.com
GWR’s Transport Integration Manager Luke Farley explains why a walk along the South West Coast Path is the ideal match with trips by train and bus.
The use of public transport in combination with a sustainable leisure activity such as walking is a natural combination. The 630-mile long South West Coast Path stretches from Minehead in West Somerset along the north coast of Devon and Cornwall and around Land’s End to head along the south coast all the way to Poole Harbour in Dorset. The entire route is clearly signposted and is met all the way round by the rail and bus networks, giving easy access to endlessly beautiful walks without relying on the car.
The added benefit to reaching the path by train and bus is that walkers can make a one way journey – extending the point-topoint distance walked without having to double back. For example, an easy option is to catch the train to Totnes and then the 164 bus down to Salcombe. The coast path can then be enjoyed around to Dartmouth where bus 92 will take you back to Totnes. There are countless similar itineraries waiting to be enjoyed. Another favourite of mine is to catch a bus from Plymouth station out to Whitsand Bay. It’s a terrific walk around the coast of the Rame Peninsula, taking in beautiful beaches, coves and the fishing villages of Kingsand and Cawsand before heading across the parkland of Mount Edgcumbe to board the Cremyll Ferry back into Plymouth. There is flexible Beryl Bike hire available at the ferry allowing you to glide back up to the station should you have done all your walking for the day.
The South West Coast Path is there to be enjoyed by people of all abilities – even a mile or two is a real treat and some incredible scenery can be enjoyed without straying far from major settlements. Half a mile along the path from Lynton (reached every hour by the 310 bus which itself is timed to connect with trains at Barnstaple) is Valley of Rocks. Once you’ve been, you’ll never forget its sheer, rock-strewn drops down to the sea, feral goats and deafening peace. It’s about an hour out and back, so easily done in between visits to the town’s wide range of shops, cafes and pubs.
Catching a train and then a bus opens up even more opportunity to enjoy the path by public transport. The Rail Link bus from Barnstaple to Lynton & Lynmouth even extolls the virtues of a walk to Valley of Rocks on the back.
Both rail and bus networks offer a selection of flexible and good value tickets that mean walkers can enjoy the freedom of the area. The ‘Ride Cornwall’ ticket, £18 for adults with discounts for child and family tickets, gives unlimited bus and rail travel in Plymouth and Cornwall. There are many other bus and rail-only ranger tickets available for many areas too. The majority of train and bus routes meeting the path operate on at least an hourly basis (often more frequently), but it is worth checking before you set off.
You don’t have to wait for the summer to enjoy a visit – the beauty of the coast is as much about the dramatic off-season weather as it is about sunshine and blue seas. There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. Wherever you decide to visit, let the bus and train take the strain and see where an adventure along the South West Coast Path might take you.
To plan a journey by combined train and bus, visit: traveline.info
For more information about Great Western Railway and how to reach the coast path by train visit GWR.com
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the South West Coast Path Association
12 May – 15 June 2023
And what a journey we had – 630 miles, two bespoke walking sticks carried around the entire Trail, hundreds of people joining us, and blazing sunshine (almost) everyday as we walked Britain’s longest and most spectacular National Trail. Our Trailblazer Walk was an adventure of epic proportions, and we are so proud of what we achieved over 35 days of continuous walking. A huge shout out to our amazing
volunteers and trail partners who worked so hard to make the Walk such a success, and a big thank you to everyone who joined us, and the sponsors who supported our biggest event ever – it was a very fitting way to celebrate our 50th anniversary!
Please enjoy our pictorial report of the Trailblazer Walk.
MINEHEAD – PORLOCK WEIR
9 Miles
Starting the Trailblazer Walk in Minehead we were joined by over 30 supporters for a great 9 mile hike on the Exmoor coast.
PORLOCK WEIR - LYNMOUTH
12 Miles
Exmoor Cliffs with far reaching views to the hills ahead.
“It's not the destination, it's the journey” – Ralph Waldo EmersonDAY 1 DAY 2
DAY 3
LYNMOUTH - COMBE MARTIN
14 Miles
Valley of the Rocks
DAY 4
COMBE MARTIN - WOOLACOMBE
14 Miles
Approaching Ilfracombe
DAY 5
WOOLACOMBE - BRAUNTON
15 Miles
Taking a breather at Saunton Sands
DAY 6
BRAUNTON - INSTOW
12.5 Miles
A small group on our walk today
DAY 7
INSTOW - WESTWARD HO!
11 Miles
The tide is out as we walk along the estuary
DAY
WESTWARD HO! – CLOVELLY
11 Miles
A pause as we look below to the pretty coastal village of Clovelly
DAY 9
CLOVELLY - HARTLAND QUAY
10.5 Miles
Beautiful Hartland with its striking rock formations
DAY 10
HARTLAND QUAY TO BUDE
15 Miles
Oneofthetoughestdaysofthewalk
DAY 11
BUDE – CRACKINGTON HAVEN
10 Miles
Volunteer Path Rep Martin leading the way on a hot day
DAY 14
PORT ISAAC – ROCK
12 Miles
DAY 12
CRACKINGTON HAVEN – TINTAGEL
11.5 Miles
Crossing one of the 230 bridges along the SWCP
DAY 15
PADSTOW TO PORTHCOTHAN
13 Miles
Blue skies and seas aplenty
DAY 13
TINTAGEL – PORT ISAAC
9 Miles
Happy Trailblazers basking in sunshine
Sue-whowalkedthefirst14daysof theTrailblazerWalk-amazingfeat!
DAY 16
SOUTH HAVEN POINT TO WORTH MATRAVERS
14 Miles
South Haven Start
DAY 17
DAY 18
PORTHCOTHAN TO NEWQUAY
10.5 Miles
Hilary Dinsdale SWCPA Trustee
DAY 19
FERRYBRIDGE TO PORTLAND BILL
13 Miles
Around the Isle of Portland
WORTH MATRAVERS TO LULWORTH COVE
14 Miles
SWCPA National Trails Officer Lorna with fellow trailblazers
LULWORTH COVE TO FERRYBRIDGE
14.5 Miles
Durdle Door looking suitably resplendent as we passed by this iconic landmark.
NEWQUAY TO PERRANPORTH
15.5 Miles
Sandstorm at Perranporth
PERRANPORTH TO PORTREATH
12.5 Miles
ApproachingChapelPorthforice cream on what was a very hot day!
PORTREATH TO ST IVES
17.5 Miles
DAY 20
FERRYBRIDGE TO ABBOTSBURY
11 Miles
Acorn waymarkers showed us the way and kept us on the right path
DAY 21
ABBOTSBURY TO WEST BAY
11 Miles
Steve Pattemore, SWCPA member, taking some time out to read Trailblazing
DAY 22
ST IVES TO PENDEEN WATCH
13.5 Miles
A challenging stretch where walkers must climb over large granite boulders.
DAY 23
LAMORNA TO MARAZION
9 Miles
Loving
PENDEEN WATCH TO LAND’S END
10.5 Miles
We made it to Land's End on a sunny day and had to have our photo with the sign!
WEST BAY TO CHARMOUTH
7 Miles
Climbing Golden Cap –the highest point on the entire south coast of England!
LAND’S END TO LAMORNA
10.5 Miles
SWCPA Director, Julian Gray, with our 50th stick and the beautiful backdrop of Pedn Vounder
CHARMOUTH TO SEATON
10 Miles
GloriouslysunnyontheJurassicCoast
DAY 25
SEATON TO SIDMOUTH
10.5 Miles
Red cliffs of Devon created a wonderful vista for the walkers to look at as they walked to Sidmouth.
DAY 26
SIDMOUTH TO EXMOUTH
12.5 Miles
Exmouth heights
STARCROSS TO BABBACOMBE
14.5 Miles
Sea, Path, Railway
MARAZION TO PORTHLEVEN
11 Miles
On the path from Rinsey Head
DAY 27
BABBACOMBE TO BRIXHAM
13 Miles
Smiling faces on the Trail
PORTHLEVEN TO LIZARD
13 Miles
Trekking on the Lizard Peninsula
THE LIZARD TO COVERACK
10.5 Miles
The Devil's Frying Pan
COVERACK TO HELFORD
13 Miles
Tranquil Helford River
DAY 28
BRIXHAM TO KINGSWEAR
11 Miles
Green hills
DAY 29
DAY 30
HELFORD PASSAGE TO FALMOUTH
10.5 Miles
Rare grey skies
DAY 31
SALCOMBE TO HOPE COVE
8 Miles
Line of walkers making steady progress
DARTMOUTH TO TORCROSS
10.5 Miles
Delightful Dartmouth
TORCROSS TO EAST PORTLEMOUTH
12.5 Miles
A little bit of wet weather
ST MAWES TO PORTLOE
13.5 Miles
PORTLOE TO MEVAGISSEY
12 Miles
Thestickhaditsfirstferrycrossing! Walking through lush landscape
MEVAGISSEY TO PAR
11 Miles
From the path we spied many secret coves perfect for a swim.
DAY 32
DAY 33
DAY 34
9.5 Miles
10.5 Miles
7.5 Miles
11 Miles
DAY 35
7.5 Miles
8 Miles
14.5 Miles
6.5 Miles
Thank You to our Way Makers who welcomed and supported us on our epic walk. Go to our recent blog and find out more blog.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/2023/08/18/way-maker-welcome/
A birds eye view of 500 Beach of Dreams silk pennants displayed at Royal William Yard at the finale of the Trailblazer Walk.
Our Coast Path Friendly scheme is one way that trail running event organisers can help maintain the trail their events use by giving £1 of every race registration fee straight back into looking after the Coast Path. It’s a great way that runners and event organisers can help protect the trail they enjoy, not only for themselves but for the many other people who also use it.
One of our Coast Path Friendly events is The Grizzly, a multiterrain race across the glorious East Devon coastline and countryside and the major event in the calendar of Axe Valley Runners. Through organising the Grizzly, the club has been able to raise thousands of pounds for local, national, and international charities with donations since 1988 of more than £500k.
We are delighted that since 2020, The Grizzly organisers have nominated the South West Coast Path Association as their charity partner and we have received £4,100 in donations from them. We caught up with Patrick Kinsella from the volunteer-based Grizzly Organising Committee to ask him a few questions about the race and why supporting the South West Coast Path Association is so important to the Axe Valley Runners.
When and why did The Grizzly first start to raise funds for charity?
It has always been a community focused event, organised entirely by volunteers and the Axe Valley Runners, and it’s important for us to direct the funds raised back into the charities, community groups and organisations that help us stage the race.
Why was the SWCPA selected as a charity to support?
The South West Coast Path doesn’t just form a very important part of the Grizzly race route – for locals and members of the Axe Valley Runners it’s our training ground. We’re unbelievably lucky to have this beautiful trail right on our doorstep, but we’re also very aware of how fragile it is, and how expensive maintaining it can be. As such, we wanted to show our appreciation to the SWCPA for the great job they do, and also to raise awareness of the challenges the path faces.
Find out more about our Coast Path Friendly scheme at southwestcoastpath.org.uk/friendly-events
If you’d like to know more about The Grizzly and other events that the Ave Valley Runners Club organise go to: https://www.axevalleyrunners.org.uk
What would you say to any trailrunning event organisers who are considering becoming Coast Path Friendly?
I would urge them to do it – you can’t take the trail for granted. The South West Coast Path is free for everyone to use, all day every day of the year, as it should be, but we have to recognise that the path requires maintenance in order to remain open, and where possible regular users of the trail should make a contribution. If need be, add a pound to the entry fee and use this as a chance to do some messaging, letting competitors know how much work is required to keep the path runnable.
Read the solo journey of Mike Hancock who travelled the 630 mile route in 31 days, and fundraised as he went!
There are many avenues to research ahead of undertaking a challenge such as the South West Coast Path. On YouTube there are journeys by Easy Dexter, Jon Poulter and many others, there is Raynor Winn’s Salt Path - which seems to have inspired a generation of very enthusiastic German hikers. There is the SWCP Association’s own guides and planners and many more experiences.
Whether you decide to take it in sections over 10 years or whack the path all in one go, you will come across people doing it faster, slower, longer and harder. The preparation and equipment you take can make an
enormous difference and with end to end through hikers, I have seen everything from hikers who with thorough assessment, selection and minimalist equipment fully load out with emergency rations and water at 6.5kgs, through to youngsters on Duke of Edinburgh programmes and older hikers carrying upward of 18 to 20kgs.
I managed my hike as part of a retirement plan to give a little back and keep myself out of trouble for a few weeks. Supporting the SWCP Association, RNLI and London Air Ambulance. I have been stunned by the generosity of people both before I started and along the route. Richard T, Tracy Bond, Sue, Judy, Helen and Vera, Ben, Carole and Mike, my friends, family, work colleagues and a few friends of friends were all incredible and supportive. We raised over £10,000 with at least £4,000 going direct to supporting this amazing pathway.
I must thank my family - Liz, Robyn and Simon, Christie and Jamie and Jack and Elle who have helped me with planning, laughed at my technical illiteracy and helped set up the Instagram diary and supported with encouragement along the way - your turn now…
This has not only been a pathway but a journey through eons of time; as you pass the different views of geology and landscape of our South West Coastline. It is truly awe inspiring and you really don’t feel the miles for the distraction of sights and sounds. Sea-lions calling in the mist, seals chasing fish up onto the beaches, sparrow hawks and kestrels hovering and hunting and the owls hooting above your tent all night. It has been so good to have the sea by my side.
The South West Coast Path
Forged by Time.
Sculptured by nature.
Fleetinglytravelledbythefortunatefew.
Mike Hancock
Minehead to South Haven Point
11 June - 11 July 2023
To read an extended version of Mike’s article go to blog.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/ 2023/07/28/a-coastal-adventure/
To celebrate 50 years of the South West Coast Path Association, we’re delighted to be partnering with our friends at Devon law firm Tozers LLP, who are generously donating their time to produce 50 simple Wills, free of charge.
The Will can be for an individual, or a mirror Will, and is provided at no cost to you or to the Charity.
Whether you’re writing your first Will, updating one after a change in circumstances, or just want some friendly, human legal advice, Tozers are on hand to help.
£1,500 £10,000 £100,000
A gift of £1,500 received today could help protect one mile of the South West Coast Path for the next year.
With £10,000 we could help more people safely access the Path, replacing worn out ramps and rugged surfaces with durable steps and handrails.
By gifting us £100,000 we could leverage additional funding to make an even greater impact on the Path and the millions of path users each year, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
If you’d like to request a copy of our Free Wills leaflet to find out more about the scheme, you can download a copy from our website by visiting southwestcoastpath.org.uk/free-wills or contact our fundraising team on Will@southwestcoastpath.org.uk to receive a copy by post
Every step taken along this path is a memory in the making, and for many, it holds a special place in their hearts.
Losing a loved one can be a profoundly challenging experience, but finding a meaningful way to honour their memory can offer solace and comfort. The South West Coast Path Association recognises this and, working together with supporters facing this incredibly unique situation, we have created a number of unique opportunities for individuals to pay tribute to their departed family members and friends.
Life's Journeys is an online community in which family and friends come to remember their passed loved ones, by adding a photo tribute of them, in return for a small donation to the South West Coast Path Association. Special memories are shared, whether these are of moments on the path, or of those who have loved the path and are no longer here to share the memories themselves.
Each year, the South West Coast Path costs at least £1,500 per mile to maintain. By donating this cost in memory of a loved one, you'll be ensuring that the Path continues to survive and thrive for years to come. In return, we'll also provide you with a beautiful bespoke oak National Trails sign, enscribed with their name, for you to treasure in their memory
If the South West Coast Path was an important part of a loved one's life, you may like to consider setting up a tribute fundraising page, to allow others to make a donation in their memory. This could be alongside a funeral collection, or could be a separate fundraising page. Whether you'd like to work towards a target, or just allow people a space to donate in memory of someone who they cared about, tribute fundraising is a selfless way to help the legacy of a loved one continue for even longer, and help others to enjoy this special place, just as they did.
In Their Footsteps is a campaign set up by the South West Coast Path Association which encourages people to walk in memory of a loved one. By walking their favourite section of the Path as a sponsored activity, you'll be raising vital funds and awareness for the SWCPA, all whilst celebrating somewhere and something that was special to someone who's no longer with us. Walk solo or as a team, and in return we'll provide you with a special 'thank you', so you'll have a token reminder of your achievement and their memory.
To find out more about opportunities to commemorate the life of a loved one, or to get involved with one of these initiatives, please visit southwestcoastpath.org.uk/in-memory or contact will.keen@southwestcoastpath.org.uk
The South West Coast Path is more than just a trail; it's a journey that connects people to the natural beauty and rich history of the southwest region of England.
BUDE TO ROCK:
Carol Sellars
Andy Salmon, Martin Berry
PADSTOW TO HAYLE:
Margaret Bonner
Jo Shorthouse, Greg Dolan, Sue & Pete Arnstein, Bill Henthorn, Dorothy Smith, Cate Pawluk, x 1 vacancy
HAYLE TO PORTHLEVEN:
Pete Marshall
Steve Church, Richard Cocking, Bridget Armstrong, Pete Marshall & Heather Williams, Tessa Goodchild, Paul Miller, Rob
Davey, Jane Grey
BIDEFORD TO BUDE:
Stephen Mills, John Byrne, Mark Whitehead, x 1 vacancy
PORTHLEVEN TO PORTLOE:
Julie Larter, John Elsey, Tessa Farthing
CORNWALL
PORTLOE TO CREMYLL:
Sue Williams
Greg Philp, Edmund
Wilson, Lucy Daniel, John & Linda Barnes
PLYMOUTH TO MOTHECOMBE
Sharon Hosgood
Dave Pawley, Kevin Richards, Adam Downing
MINEHEAD TO BIDEFORD:
Bob Fisher, Jane and David Rattue, Paul & Sandra Berry, Chris Burley, Isabelle Maggs
To help our Area and Local Reps look after the Coast Path, you can report any problems via the website, under EXPLORE and Report a Problem. Or you can email us at hello@southwestcoastpath.org.uk and we’ll forward on the issue to the relevant person.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with us then please contact hello@southwestcoastpath.org.uk and we will be back in touch when a local path rep vacancy near you becomes available.
EXMOUTH TO ABBOTSBURY:
David & Margaret Brocklehurst, Carole Gibbs & Roger Dyer, Martin Smith, Helen and Ray Bruno, Jayne McGuire, Gary Holpin, David Witham, Bob Ponchaud
KINGSWEAR TO STARCROSS:
ABBOTSBURY TO SOUTH HAVEN POINT:
Lynda Appleton, Martyn Buxton-Hoare, Jeremy Saul, Alastair & Julia Hoare, Robert Mott, Charley Scragg
The Coast Path Connectors project is underway! Thanks to our funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, we now have five part-time Project Officers in post around the Coast Path who are busy working with community partners in organising walk programmes.
Each area is special in terms of its populations, landscapes and coastline and so projects being delivered are unique to their hub areas. All of our Project Officers spent their first few months building up a picture of what was already taking place in their areas, and where the opportunities are, before starting walking.
We have also recruited and trained over 30 new volunteers who are supporting these walks. These are Coast Path enthusiasts who enjoy sharing their love of walking with people often trying it for the first time, supporting them, and keeping them safe.
We’ve had some great feedback so far; from a group set up in North Devon to support people with bereavement, to getting vulnerable adults from St. Petroc’s out on the Cornish Coast Path and supporting people with sight and hearing difficulties exploring the Plymouth heritage. Here are some highlights of the amazing work that they are all doing.
In Plymouth, we now have 5 groups participating in regular walks as part of the CPC project. Age groups range from young students to the over 65s, and between them participants have collectively walked over 700 miles, more than the entire length of the South West Coast Path!
One of the groups has been organised by Timebank Southwest, a local charity that supports residents to volunteer their time, skills and interests in their local community. After initial consultations with group members, it was clear that although
many had visited the Coast Path in the past, poor mobility, low income and a lack of confidence has stopped them from accessing the path for many years. Since April, we have walked together monthly and for many, this has been a huge achievement, made possible by the supportive nature of this project. Timebank Co-Ordinator Zoe Nile said about the project “Planning and participating in Coast Path walks with Gemma has been really wonderful for myself and my Timebank members. We have had the chance to visit places we wouldn't normally be able to, soak up the atmosphere, breathe in the sea air and come away feeling invigorated. I have also really appreciated opening these walks up to all three Timebank groups that I run, therefore bringing people together from Efford, Devonport and Stonehouse. Creating these connections has had many benefits for members, they get to meet new people and discover things in common. The walks were designed to ensure all members were able to participate and so everyone felt welcome and included, a really important factor. And judging by attendance and feedback, the right choices have been made each time".
Here in Cornwall this summer we have seen a number of CPC groups start to grow. A highlight was a ramble with our amazing NHS staff, to celebrate their 75th birthday on the 5th July. This walk was set up with Zara, Gary and Dan from the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, who play a leading role in looking after the Mental and Physical Health of our NHS staff. In typical Cornish weather of sun, rain and wind, 17 NHS staff met on the path in Polkerris. The walk took us out to Gribbin Head, and after stopping for a well-earned packed lunch at Polridmouth, we made our way back inland to the start point. Gary, a Health and Wellbeing Practitioner with the trust said, “The uptake has been brilliant, it is a partnership we are looking to roll out over a prolonged period.” We are looking forward to running these walks quarterly.
Elsewhere our monthly photography walks in Newquay have been going well. On these walks we are joined by Mike, a professional photographer, who shares his knowledge on Mindful Photography and gives out tips on how to take that perfect picture. These walks have taken us to Bedruthan Steps, Fistral Beach and the Gannel and we are looking forward to exploring more of what our
When Jeanie was widowed she found walking in nature really helped support her wellbeing and the healing process in grief and readjustment, but felt a real need to get others walking together. With support from the North Devon Coast Path Connector and volunteer walk leaders, Richard and Nick, a new walking group was formed called Healing Steps. The group is a mixture of ages, genders and experience. Feedback has been very positive, and numbers are growing quickly, with nearly 40 members on the The Healing Steps Facebook group. Walks are every other Friday and so far the group have met at Instow, Westward Ho!, Northam Burrows and Crowe Point with new walks planned for Appledore, Taw estuary and Baggy Point.
“It was so lovely to meet everyone. I, for one wouldn’t have gone on my own and neither would I have driven there otherwise….. so pleased I pushed through the anxiety.
Thank you ladies and gents …. Looking forward to the next one x” Healing Steps walker.
amazing coastline has to offer. “The aim of these walks are to encourage a different demographic out onto the path. They are short walks and are camera phone friendly, so you don’t need an expensive camera to get involved. Photography gets participants looking at nature and the path in a different way, you see colours and lights differently and can spend a long time lost in nature, it really is great for the soul.”
This summer a programme of over 16 walks was planned in consultation with the local social prescribing networks, charities (such as Encompass, Devonmind and Devon Recovery Learning Community) and the NHS. The walks are geographically spread between Bideford and Ilfracombe and varied in intensity from ambles along seafronts to more challenging walks at Baggy Point, Bull Head and Heddons Mouth. Although not exclusive, participation was either through self referral, social prescription, or referral from a health related agency. So far, of the 40 participants on these walks 27 are referrals, these have primarily come from The Devon Mental Health Alliance and the NHS. Patients have enjoyed the walks and feedback has been positive.
The Torbay Hub had a busy Spring, meeting community partners, understanding what was already on offer in Torbay, building a volunteer team and offering training for those volunteers. Many attended an information and welcome day in the early June sunshine when we walked a loop through Chelston and Cockington and back along the Coast Path. Stuart (Torbay Project Officer) says about the day ‘It was a pleasure to notice everyone’s passion for walking and a good time was had by all’. Since then, our volunteers have been busy attending various training sessions. In July, we partnered with Hannah at SWISco, to offer volunteers a session on planning and mapping Sensory Walks. Training was delivered by the national charity, SENSE, with the aim to ensure more walks are available that not only are accessible to those with a sensory loss or impairment, but are also engaging of all of our senses, for all of us.
The first few months of the CPC project in Dorset have been spent recruiting and training volunteers and reaching out to local community groups who might benefit from tailored walks along the Coast Path. We now have a core team of volunteers, some of whom are becoming Community Rangers and will be able to lead walks, and others who just want to help out, chat to people, and make sure nobody gets left behind! Both roles are really valuable to us.
Summer has seen numerous walking groups starting to take shape. “Meeting potential walkers has been illuminating” says Stuart. “Their input allows us to achieve our vision of genuinely tailoring walks to the walkers’ needs”. In August, we started walking with Asylum Seekers based in Paignton, supported by the Community Development Trust (TCDT). Eight walkers joined Stuart and project volunteer, Chris for the inaugural walk around Clennon Lakes. Also with TCDT, we have walks in Melville, walks with older people, and walks with Brixham Theatre volunteers all starting in early Sept. M.E/Chronic Fatigue walks, Stroke Survivor walks and Men’s Mental Health walks are also planned.
Regular groups are now beginning to get underway, with our first monthly group set up with Hope House in Weymouth. This is a group that have not done much walking before, and we are starting with very gentle local walks with the intention to build up to something more adventurous as the project continues. One of the women attending in July proudly told the project officer she had reached her daily step target before lunch!
We are also planning a series of walks with a local artist, Emma Scattergood, involving an exploration of the Coast Path with a chance to take part in some “creative play”. These sessions will be suitable for complete beginners, with some including an accessible walk and some that involve a longer walk with some ups and downs. There will be a chance for participants to use their senses to explore the area, and collect found materials to create with. Keep an eye on our social media for details.
Name: Sally Robins
Volunteer role: Marketing and Events Volunteer
Tell us a little about yourself and your relationship with the Coast Path.
I was brought up in Wiltshire and Leicestershire, after University I moved to Devon where I married and settled in Plymouth. My early career was within the NHS in Devon, but I then moved into the corporate world, initially in the Thames Valley, then Edinburgh, Paris and London leading to roles as Director of Communications and Marketing for FTSE companies. Throughout that time I commuted weekly returning to spend weekends at home in the South West. A walk along the coast path at weekends was my “happy place”, free from the rigours of mid-week city life.
What inspired you to volunteer at the South West Coast Path Association?
I walk on the coast path most days now, but I have to confess that I really didn’t know much about the Association and so I met Julian (Director) at the offices in the Royal William Yard. It was inspiring to hear more about the Association and how I might be able to contribute in some way to help the relatively small team who run it.
Julian suggested I meet with Aletha who is responsible for marketing within the Association, where my skills might best be used. Aletha welcomed me with open arms and we soon started bouncing ideas off each other.
Being part of the team to deliver the first-ever photographic exhibition for the Association, what were the highlights?
Reviewing the hundreds of pictures with Aletha was exciting, before a long-list was judged by a panel of 4 professional photographers and editors, who selected a winner and the runners up in each category. But perhaps the highlight for me was helping hang the finalist’s pictures in a gallery within the historic Royal William Yard. A process that had started with an announcement in ‘Trailblazing’ a few months earlier had now culminated in a series of diverse and stunning framed pictures.
With the success of the first exhibition, how do you see your volunteering role develop at the Association?
If I’m still useful to the team and they would like me to continue to help in any way I can, I will. And in answer to the question how I would see that volunteer role develop, obviously I enjoyed the photographic competition, and I think we could develop that further. But I would also like to help see how we could further develop the profile of the Association both within the South West and wider afield.
Why do you think people should volunteer?
I think you can break that down into two elements really. Firstly, what’s in it for me (the volunteer)? Volunteering is incredibly rewarding and can give you a great sense of belonging and satisfaction; overall, it creates a sense of ‘common purpose’. Which brings us to the second element, the purpose - of giving your time working to protect, enhance and promote our stunning South West Coast Path.
What is your favourite section of the South West Coast Path?
I haven’t walked all of it, but I know some of it really well and I suppose for me it’s a balance between which is the most beautiful or spectacular and which holds most emotions. My heart is close to home (South Devon and SE Cornwall); recently I walked the Bigbury to Wembury section and on towards Plymouth, it’s a scenic and a varied walk! The Rame peninsula in SE Cornwall is also a favourite ramble. Further afield - north Cornwall as well as a special mention for Exmoor’s incredible section of the coast path.
Thank you to Sally and all our volunteers who do so much to support and actively promote the SWCP and the Association.
We have received many completer stories and it's been lovely to read the many journeys that have taken place along the Path over the past few months. We hope you enjoy the stories that have been shared with us.
My Dad Jeff and I put walking the path on our bucket lists in the 1990s. In September 2019 I realised if we were doing it, it needed to be soon - Dad had recently had a hip replacement and I was approaching 50, so we started our adventure in May 2021.
Little did we know what was about to happen and the additional challenges we would face. While in lockdown we walked Padstow to Marazion and then travelled to Minehead, to complete the remainder in the usual order. Meanwhile the world flocked to the south-west - we’re so grateful to the B&Bs and taxis who went the extra mile (excuse the pun ��).
It’s the toughest thing we’ve ever attempted. We’d walked the path previously – but only ‘tourist’ sections, on fine days. 4 days in and I thought ‘What was I thinking? People like us don’t do this’. Fathers’ Day 2021, 6 weeks after setting off, we reached South-Haven Point (returning to complete short sections closures/ weather prevented earlier).
I’m so grateful we did this and were able to finish. I have so many memories of spectacular scenery and fascinating people we met, as I revisit sections they come flooding back. Our thanks to the volunteers who made it possible.
I keep trying to persuade Jeff to do it in reverse. He’s not said yes, yet. Maybe after the other hip’s been fixed!
It began five years ago! I’d been inspired to do the walk by a former colleague of mine, who completed the 630mile journey 25 years ago.
I remember being excited to start and made my way to Minehead on an overcast muggy day.
Off we go I thought. Halfway up the first hill I wondered about my sanity. “What am I doing”?
After that initial shock and rapid shedding of outer layers, the marvellous, dramatic and life changing journey began.
Through Somerset, the north coast of Devon and part of Cornwall. Then a shuddering halt because of the pandemic. Two miles short of Kynance Cove and a delay of over a year.
Eventually, starting again was a joy after the close confinement we’d all been through. The rest of Cornwall, the south coast of Devon and then the final sections through Dorset to South Haven Point.
The ups the downs, the changes in weather, the downright hardship at times.
Magnificent is the only word I can use. If you’re thinking of doing it, do it! It’s just the most challenging but ultimately satisfying thing you’ll do. I miss it. Now onto the next challenge.
I started the SWCP reverse route in May 2016 for my 50th birthday. I initially walked for 2 weeks with family & friends meeting me and joining for different days. It was fantastic the spring flowers, views, company, dips in the sea. After that I returned and did different sections at weekends and over short holiday breaks. I kept a meticulous log so that I didn’t miss any sections, by March 2020 when lockdown began, I’d got to Port Isaac.
In June 2021 we moved to Barnstaple, and I got back on the path, completing the North Cornwall and North Devon stretches. I finally did the last two days, Lynton to Minehead on Good Friday 2023. I finished with 10 friends who had all walked different sections with me. 40 friends and family have joined me on different sections of the Path. I’ve absolutely loved every minute and feel a real connection with this coastline. Next time I would love to do it in one go.
I will be volunteering to work with the Association when I retire, what an amazing job you do keeping this path open for us all to enjoy. Thank You
Everyone's SWCP story is different. We began in Fowey in September 2011. We strolled along The Saints way to Polmear and back along the coast to Gribben Head and onto the hotel. Then, a bus trip to Polperro and along the coast to base. Seeing acorn signs everywhere, research found two stretches done of a 630-mile National Trail. We gradually completed the Southern part and rounded Lands’ End in October 2018, resolving to do the rest all clockwise in order. 4 ½ years later we crossed the line at our finish – Minehead on Lin’s 65th birthday, 3 of our children and their families cheering us over the line!
Very emotional, elating and overall brilliant memories. 92 days walking over the 11.7 years, mostly clockwise some anti-clockwise. Best bits? Far too many to name, plus the many lovely people we met over the years. Low point? Probably most of The Lizard as it was mizzling for 80% of the time!
Top tip, if doing the walk piecemeal: always plan to have your car at the end of the walk. Get a bus/taxi to the start. Then you are not rushing to catch the last bus!
I thought I’d have to wait until my 12-year-old son had flown the nest before I’d have an opportunity to walk the SWCP. However, having backpacked a few considerably shorter trails he declared he’d like to try something longer, so we agreed on walking the SWCP together, fundraising for the RNLI.
We began at Minehead on May 2nd 2023, finishing 64 days later at South Haven Point on July 4th 2023. Carrying all our equipment, we stayed at campsites for all but a few nights and ended up walking around 750 miles in total (some of those campsites were quite a detour from the path!)
The highlights were the changing nature of the landscape and geology, witnessing the slow change of the season and ecology as we progressed and above all the kindness and encouragement of the people we met.
It was a precious experience to walk continuously for 9 weeks with my son and I will treasure the shared memories and his determination to continue when he felt like he couldn’t walk another step (some of those steps felt like mountains for little legs, including mine!)
In his words, ‘it’s the biggest achievement of my life’!
Ending a coast walk in Minehead we stood next to our first South West Coast Path sign 'Poole 630 miles'. We looked at each other and said let’s do it and that was the start of our incredible adventure. We started 18 November 2018 and completed 15 June 2023, 66 walking days.
Every free weekend and odd week away we spent in the most amazing way walking, climbing and enjoying every minute of it! Couldn't wait to get on the path. We mainly walked to and from our destination giving a completely different perspective of the surroundings walking both ways. There are so many exceptional things about walking this incredible path, the views, surroundings, atmosphere and feeling at one with nature, and the joy at completing each section, the climbs and the steps... Gosh the steps! We felt happy, healthy and exhilarated.
It's difficult to pick a favourite section but St Ives to Porthcurno was simply breathtaking, especially Zennor and Nanjizel. We loved the remote sections around Hartland, seeing dolphins at Cape Cornwall, Choughs at Land’s End and several seals along the path, we can honestly say this has been the best experience of our lives. We will now spend weekends and holidays walking our favourite sections again and will continue to support the Association.
Thoughts of walking the SWCP go back around 30 years ago to family holidays in Devon & Cornwall, short strolls along the cliff tops making me curious about what was around the next corner.
Five years ago I began the walk of a lifetime to find out! Several visits and 49 walking days later I finally arrived at South Haven Point on 3 May. Since starting in 2018 I have retired and moved to Somerset!
I enjoyed the solitude of solo walking, but it was also wonderful to meet so many like-minded people from around the world. With so many travelling to the UK specifically to walk the Path I realised how lucky we are to have it on our doorstep. A big thank you to all at the SWCP Association for your hard work!
My advice to anyone walking the Path? Pause often and look over your shoulder. The views are different looking back and you can see how far you've come!
I feel a huge sense of achievement at completing but already miss the Path and can't wait to return to my favourite sections! Would I do it all again? Well, I'm a lot closer to the start now!
It started with a wall map, SWCP book and challenge to complete the Path in my retirement. Over the next 6 years I filled in the map: 112 walking days, shared with 13 different friends & family. Walking the path randomly, around 6 -8 miles a day, the longest was 13.3 miles. The best bit? I cannot choose… Maps, books, tide tables, bus & train timetables. Transport in Cars, Buses, Taxis, Trains, Lifts, Ferries and a sailing Yacht. Relief when spotting an Acorn finger post; mileage always more than they say. All with the most wonderful company along the way. An extraordinary trail.
We always wanted to walk the SWCP and started June 2014 with Alfie, our cocker. We finished 22 September (Pete & I, Alfie made it halfway but did finish), 63 walking days, 8-years. Without doubt the best thing we have ever done and on some days the hardest (Heartland Quay to Bude!) But they seem to be the most memorable. The Path gave us the simple carefree freedom of one foot in front of the other. This is what we craved and
Ian Hetterley & Lynn Hurcombe, Rothley
We took on the coast path in 2018, walking twice a year. Including the South Dorset Ridgway, it took us 63 days (we also had rest days as we wanted to explore locations rather than just pass through them).
looked forward to every year along with: Unforgettable swims in secluded bays/coves, breathtaking scenery. Blisters. Dolphins, lizards & seals. Meeting amazing people on the path and the many B&B's we stayed in, oh how we will miss it.
We had our ups & downs on and off the path, as all 3 of us had operations but the therapy of the path kept us going. What's next? To turn around and do the whole thing in one go
Top tip. Use a luggage transfer company, it took us 6 years to realize how good they are.
Alan & Susan Vere, Spalding
We completed the SWCP at Southaven Point on a wet day in April 2023. Cheered over the line by many of our family who had come from all over the country to celebrate with us. It had always been a dream to walk the SWCP, so having retired we started the walk at Minehead in May 2017.
We were meticulous in our planning, walking in Path order from Minehead and always starting each day where we’d left the path previously-no short cuts and no cheating! We tried many ways of getting to and from our starting points, using a combination of car, train, bus and taxi, as we soon discovered it isn't easy.
We walked in glorious sunshine most of the time, only got soaked four times, the worst being after leaving Falmouth and shortly after passing St Anthony's Lighthouse we were battered by 50mph winds and torrential rain all the way to Portloe.
We arrived at South Haven Point on 4 August 2022 in glorious sunshine but with mixed emotions. A great sense of achievement but sad that our wonderful journey and experience had come to an end.
It will be very difficult to find a coastline as beautiful as the SWCP. We would like to thank the Association for all the work they do in maintaining the path, the excellent B&B’s, Luggage Transfers, ferry operators and all the fellow walkers we met on our journey who stopped to chat.
We travelled down from our home in the Lincolnshire Fens every spring and autumn, apart from during covid. Surviving some very wet walks, big hills and a knee replacement, it’s been the best of experiences. We’ve met and chatted with such lovely people …including Raynor and Moth Winn (such an inspiration). We’ve also had great stays with warm welcomes on farms, B&B’s, hotels and cottages.
It’s hard to put into words the feeling of spending time together out in the open, by the sea, meeting others on the walk and just listening to the waves and wildlife. Now we’ve finished we miss all the excitement of planning that next section, looking for accommodation, plotting bus routes and walking together in such a beautiful part of the world… We’ll be back!
Startedat60yearsofage!
After assisting and listening to the adventures of many South West Coast Path walkers over a period of years with my Taxi Service on the Lizard Peninsula in South Cornwall, I decided to challenge myself to the 630 mile walk. By way of day trips and overnight stays, I am very pleased to say that over 7 years later I have achieved my ambition.
My favourite sections have been the Great Hangman, North Devon and Golden Cap, Dorset. At a lower level, the Helford River, Cornwall and the Yealm, South Devon.
Now retired from full-time driving, I have already completed over 100 miles in Cornwall on my second time around, and am also looking forward to walking the newly opened Tamara Way, the Cornwall/Devon Border Trail.
There have been so many positives along the way, including the nature, wild-life and scenery, together with all the fellow walkers I've encountered from around the world. My special thanks goes to everyone involved with the South West Coast Path: here's to my next 630!
‘The Salt Path’ by Raynor Winn has alot to answer for! I knew that the SWCP existed and had walked several sections on group holidays but it was reading this book in 2020 that first put the idea of walking the whole thing in one go in my head. Unlike Raynor and Moth though, I had time to plan and money for food and accommodation. On 3 May 2023 I set out with a booked itinerary to walk the path on my own, whilst raising money for charity.
I am delighted to have finally completed, starting August 2006 and finishing 9 June 2023 – that’s nearly 17 years! Is it a record? Certainly not for speed!
I fitted in sections between work before I retired. There were 65 sections – in fact there was one extra – I did Watchet to Minehead first to see if I liked the idea. The incentive here was a steam train ride back to Watchet! I was smitten and soon made my way to Minehead to start properly.
My strategy (and another incentive) was overnight stays in B&Bs, usually driving to the destination, getting a bus back to the start and walking to my car. A couple of sections had no public transport, e.g. Kimmeridge to Worth Matravers and I am grateful that my daughter Erica joined me and provided a second car and good company.
Whilst walking I often wondered which was the best bit, but there are simply too many to separate one out in particular. I did however consider which place I would like to ultimately live in. What better way to judge these marvellous places?
I would thoroughly recommend walking the path. So many lovely sights to see and a tremendous sense of satisfaction after each day’s walk.
It was undoubtedly the biggest physical and mental challenge I’ve ever undertaken, but the reward was an amazing experience I’ll never forget. The stunning scenery, the sense of achievement at conquering a ‘severe’ section, the glint of the sun on the sea as I set out each morning (yes, I was incredibly lucky with the weather!) and the camaraderie on the Path will always stay with me.
Arriving at South Haven Point on 2 July to be greeted by friends and family was an emotional and proud moment. Walking the path had become my life and I couldn’t quite believe it was ending. I’d only gone and done it!
Due to family bereavement, Matt’s mum who has dementia, moved in with us and Matt became her carer. After 3 years we decided she would be better off in a home. We decided to take some time out and wanted an adventure and challenge, so Matt suggested doing the SWCP as a through hike.
In March, we started in Minehead, however the weather had other plans and after a lot of rain/wind, Matt slipped and hurt his knee so we came off the path at Combe Martin. The weather had improved in May so we were back on the path at Combe Martin. We had fantastic weather most of the time which was perfect for camping, using the odd B&B.
The whole experience was not just physical but mentally challenging. We got so much better at working as a team. The path is a beautiful place to be on a through hike for seven weeks and we got totally immersed all the ups and downs, the cliff edges scary at times and so much more. Pack light as water is heavy! Mixture of tears and smiles at the finish. Thank you SWCP!
We started the Coast Path in September 2018 as a 7-day walking holiday to ‘see what it was like’, but by the time we reached Westward Ho! we were hooked! Four more trips using B&Bs and trains/buses to get to and from the Coast Path saw us finishing in May 2023 at South Haven Point.
We enjoyed the planning of each section and the excitement of resuming our walk - like greeting an old friend. It was especially emotional returning
We are grateful to the SWCPA for such enjoyable and interesting holidays. We began recording our walks on the 31st of May 2014 at South Haven Point!
Surprises included the number of deserted beaches during the month of August, entering a valley of pink rhododendrons and the kaleidoscopes of butterflies on Water Mint.
Latterly it helped to secure a folding electric bike at the end of each walk, and then Tim would ride back to the beginning to retrieve the car.
We became “Completers” on the 9th of August 2023 by descending into Bantham, with our daughter Lois. Bantham has been the backdrop for many happy family times, thanks to the generosity of Gill and Michael.
“The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed thedryland.” Psalm95:5
for our third trip after 2 cancellations due to Covid.
High points: Too numerous to mention! But the stunning scenery, the variety of terrain, the sunsets, the rugged Cornish coastline, the chalk cliffs of the Jurassic coast, and the tranquil, unspoilt beauty of Warbarrow Bay spring to mind. Also, the variety of birds and wildflowers we saw.
Low Point: the unavoidable quagmire of a path that went on for miles alongside Fleet lagoon.
This was in mid-May!
What next? Walking the Coast Path has instilled in us a deep love of walking by the sea and there is so much more of the British coastline that we have yet to explore!
Mary was inspired by reading The Salt Path to do the walk after retiring from decades in the NHS. We covered 520 miles, mainly camping, last April and May, and then finished the last 110 miles this April 2023. Our favourite aspects were the people and the flora. Amongst many there was Mel who was walking for the RNLI, Paul who ended up in the same campsite several times and Erica & Matt from Los Angeles who are still in touch.
We loved the pink balls of sea thrift, the plunging coastlines and even the man-made legacies like the tin mines in Cornwall. We found some of it very physically challenging and could sometimes not believe just how many ups and downs could be packed into a short headland. We are proud completers.
Started in Minehead: 15 Sep 2020, completed in South Haven Point: 13 Aug 2023, which marked the end of my hiking adventure! So many great moments that I have been happy to live by myself and to share with others.
- 34 days (non-consecutive) over less than 3 years
- 1100 km, 31700 m of ascent
- 200+ bridges crossed, 880+ gates
- a good mix of wild camping, hostels, B&Bs or early/late train journeys
- 50+ cups of coffee, 10+ pasties, 20+ pints of beer, a few blisters...
The path is a gift to all hikers that are lucky enough to experience it.
I have recommended it many many times and will definitely keep doing it.
The work done by the volunteers is amazing and I would like to thank them for allowing people like me to hike safely and without too many worries about finding directions, climbing a steep slope or calculating how many miles are left!
Having walked the Cornish coastline for years, we decided completing the whole of the SWCP in a single trip would tick the adventure box! We walked for 55 walking days and 8 rest days, starting in Minehead 31 May finishing at South Haven Point 1 August 2023. We used B&B's and pubs and used a Baggage Transfer Company so we could walk with day packs. We’d learnt the importance of walking poles, knee supports for downhills, lunchtime sock changes to minimise blisters and water reservoirs for hot days (there were plenty in June!)
The views were stunning, it was true escapism to immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of nature. Family and friends joined us to walk for a day or two. Our three children walked from Noss Mayo to Salcombe with us, through the heaviest rain and strongest winds we've ever experienced on the path. An experience they'll never forget (and probably wouldn't choose to repeat!).
We're known as 'the kissing gate couple' by our friends so decided to log the number of working kissing gates. There are 441 and poor Jackie had to pucker up at every one!
The SWCP has been an amazing adventure and one that will be tough to beat. The path was very doable in one go with a bit of planning - and there's no better way to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and ups and downs that this incredible path has to offer!
All products are available in our online Shop, along with a varied selection of Guides, Maps, Clothing and Gifts for you to purchase and show your support of our beautiful Coast Path. Visit shop.southwestcoastpath.org.uk or call us on 01752 896237 to place your order.
CALENDAR 2024 - £12
This delightful Calendar contains photos from our annual Photographer of the Year Competition, depicting stunning locations around the Coast Path. Months are broken down by week with room to mark down all those important dates, making our 2024 calendar ideal to organise your year.
BEANIE HATS - £12
Modern style pull-on beanie hat has a double layer knit for extra warmth - suitable for whenever, whatever the weather! Comes in a variety of colours, embroidered with the South West Coast Path logo. One size only.
COAST & COUNTRY WALK BOOKS -
Perfect for walkers of all ages and abilities, with photos and sketch maps, covering 40 walks from between 1 - 8 miles (3 - 17 km). The majority of these walks are along the Coast Path although many run in-land through countryside, woodland and alongside rivers.
We’ve teamed up with local designer Katie Mes, who is also passionate about the Coast Path, to offer this unique 8-pack set of Christmas Cards with 2 different designs in each pack. Size 14cm x 14cm
Beautiful locally handmade wooden pens which started life as finger posts guiding walkers on the Coast Path. Having fallen into a state of disrepair, we decided to recycle them to make something really special. Each pen will come with a little card explaining which sign the wood came from.
These beautifully hand illustrated mugs come in 4 designs inspired by the Coast Path, each created and packaged using eco-friendly practices such as vegetable based inks, sustainable sources and 100% recycled and biodegradable packaging, whilst still maintaining quality. Comes boxed in a Kraft brown gift box.
We’ve created some Member Offers, so simply use the codes below at our online shop www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/shop
Or alternatively, please call the office on: 01752 896237 as we would be more than happy to help you place your order over the phone.
All offers expire 31 December 2023. Postage cannot be guaranteed by a certain date.
Why not give the Gift of a Membership to a loved one for as little as £29.00 (Single) or £37.00 (Joint). Visit www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/gift-membership or call 01752 896237
It's autumn and time to review your walking kit for the cool season ahead. Take advantage of your membership and enjoy a variety of discounts to ensure you get fully kitted out for less as well as enjoy an ice cream or a cosy break with our Jurassic Coast section sponsor, Waterside Holidays.
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Available on bookings made before 31st January 2024. Subject to availability. New bookings only.
Constantine Bay, North Cornwall.
Photo by Christian Minear
Find out how to leave a gift in your Will.
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