A Beginner’s Guide to Walking the The Salt Path

A panoramic view from the Southwest Coast Path | Helen Hotson

Blog home / A Beginner’s Guide to Walking the The Salt Path

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring dramatic clifftops, golden beaches, quaint fishing villages and epic sea views all in one walk, then the South West Coast Path – also known as the Salt Path - might just be your perfect first long-distance trail.

Whether you're new to multi-day walking or just want to dip your toe in a section or two, this South West Coast Path beginners' guide is here to help you take your first steps.

Mevagissey inner harbour in Cornwall | Jim Monk

Exploring the South West Coast Path in England

The British tin mining heritage is still visible when walking in Cornwall | ASKULTD

What is the South West Coast Path?

Stretching 630 miles (1,014 km) from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, the South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest National Trail. It weaves its way around the rugged coasts of Devon and Cornwall, past secluded coves, surf beaches, and wildlife-rich headlands.

The full trail takes seasoned walkers around 6–8 weeks to complete, but many beginners choose to walk shorter sections based on time, fitness, and scenery.

A Brief History of the South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path wasn’t originally created for leisure. It began as a functional trail for coastguards and customs officers in the 19th century. Their job? To patrol the cliffs and coves for smugglers sneaking contraband into hidden inlets along the rugged coastline.

They needed to keep a constant line of sight to the sea, which meant the path hugged every headland and bay. A design that today gives walkers those sweeping ocean views and dramatic ups and downs.

Over time, the trail evolved from a smugglers’ lookout to one of Britain’s most beloved long-distance walks. Officially designated as a National Trail in 1978, the South West Coast Path now welcomes thousands of walkers each year, drawn by its wild beauty, rich heritage, and variety of landscapes, from fossil-filled cliffs to subtropical bays.

Walking the Salt Path, or South West Coast Path, in England | Roy Curtis

Why It's Perfect for First-Timers

Waymarked and well-maintained: You won’t get lost. Just follow the acorn symbols.
Plenty of places to stay: From cosy B&Bs to welcoming pubs, there’s accommodation in almost every village.
Flexible itineraries: Whether you’ve got three days or three weeks, there’s a section to suit.
No need to carry everything: Luggage transfers are available so you can walk with just a daypack.

Best Sections for Beginners

If you're starting out, here are a few easier, scenic sections ideal for first-time walkers:

St Ives to Penzance
Discover a wild and surf-pummelled shoreline, taking in Lands End and a multitude of tiny coves, throbbing with the sound of breakers, the eerie call of birds and barks of seals.

Padstow to St Ives
Walk along the coast between the popular resorts of Padstow and St. Ives, visiting the surfer’s paradise of Newquay.

Penzance to Mevagissey
A variety of coastal scenery ranging from sheltered tidal creeks to the wooded Fal estuary and the brooding cliffs of the Lizard, England's most southerly point.

When to Go

Spring (April–June):
Wildflowers are in bloom, and the paths are quieter.

Autumn (September–October):
Crisp air, fewer crowds, and stunning golden light.

Summer (June – September):
Peak season for a reason, but popular sections can get busy.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes or boots
Waterproof jacket (the coast can be changeable
Hat, sunscreen, and layers
Water bottle and snacks
A lightweight daypack
OS Maps or a navigation app (optional but helpful)

Handy Tips for First-Timers

Don’t overestimate your pace. Coastal walking is hilly so allow plenty of time for breaks and views.

Book your walking holiday early as accommodation can book out early, especially in busier seasons.

Consider a self-guided holiday. We can organise routes, maps, luggage transfers and accommodation,
Check tide times. Some beaches and coves may only be accessible at low tide.

Ready to Get Walking?

Reading about the South West Coast Path is just the beginning. The real joy comes with each clifftop view, local pub meal, and quiet moment by the sea.

So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and see where this extraordinary trail takes you.

Cornwall, Salt Path, Guide

Remote Hiking in the Canary Islands

The 25 Best Walking Holidays in 2025

The UK and Europe's top walking holidays and hiking tours for 2025.

Celebrating the end of our long distance walk in England | John Millen

Guided Walking Holidays – What You Need to Know

Discover the benefits of guided walking holidays in the UK & Europe with expert insights from our guide. Enjoy stress-free travel with expert navigation, group camaraderie, and local insights—without the hassle of planning.

Local characters | John Millen

Top Tips for a First-time Walking Holiday

Considering going on a multi-day walking holiday for the first time? Check out these must-know tips from our resident guide that has been taking walking trips for the last 30+ years.

Easy walks in the UK & Europe | John Millen

10+1 Of The Best Easy Walking Trips To Explore At Your Own Pace

Check out this Top 10 of walks in the UK and Europe that are on the easier end of the spectrum. Excellent for that first long-distance walking holiday of the season - or ever!

Join a small, international group of like-minded walkers on our Coast to Coast holidays | John Millen

England's Coast to Coast Walking Trail: All you need to know

Traverse 3 national parks over 190 miles from the Irish Sea coast to the charming fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. Read this in-depth guide to hiking one of Britain's iconic National Trails, the Coast to Coast.

Our group crosses a stream on Wainwright's Coast to Coast walk | John Millen

Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Guided Walk: FAQ

What is it like to travel in a group? Who is my guide? And how do picnic lunches work? Get the answers to all your Coast to Coast guided walking questions now.