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.

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.

Why It's the Perfect Long Distance Trail

• Waymarked and well-maintained: You won’t get lost. Just follow the acorn symbols.
• Welcoming places to stay: From cosy B&Bs to friendly pubs, there’s great variety of accommodation to stay in one trip.
• Flexible itineraries: Whether you’ve got five 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.

Popular Sections of Cornwall's Coastal Path

If you've just heard about the South West Coast Path and are short on time, here are a few of the most popular, as well as scenic sections, to consider for your hike in Cornwall:

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.

What to Pack

• Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or boots
• Waterproof jacket (the coast can be changeable)
• Hat, sunscreen, and layers
• Water bottle and snacks
• A lightweight daypack
• Your phone with our navigational app setup

Handy Tips when Walking in Cornwall

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. 

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.
 

One of the greatest joys of a walking holiday in Britain is the feeling of sharing the landscape with its original locals—the sheep. With over 90 different breeds across the UK, these woolly characters are more than just scenic backdrops to your journey. They are hardy, historic, and often downright adorable.

As you make your way along our trails—from the craggy fells of the Lake District to the sun-dappled hills of the Cotswolds—you’re walking through the homeland of some of the world’s most iconic sheep breeds. Here's who you might bump into along the way…

Who You’ll Meet on the Trail

Scottish Blackface
Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Scottish Highlands
Often seen grazing high on windswept ridges, this breed has been here since the 1750s. They’re rugged and built for altitude—just like many of our walkers!

Herdwick
Lake District
Possibly descended from Viking sheep, these grey-coated locals are experts at navigating steep ground. They’re also fiercely loyal to their home range (a behaviour known as hefting)—just like you might be after discovering the Lakes.

Texel
Everywhere from Cornwall to Cumbria
You’ll spot these stocky sheep all over the UK. Originally from the Netherlands, they’ve made themselves very much at home in British pastures.

Bluefaced Leicester & Mules
Nationwide
The Roman-nosed Bluefaced Leicester is a common sight in lowland fields. Their offspring, Mules, are often the friendly faces peering at you from behind a gate or dry-stone wall.

Cheviot
The Pennines, Scottish Borders
If you're walking Offa’s Dyke or venturing across the wilds of the Borders, look out for these classic white-faced sheep. They’re strong, independent, and just a little feisty—ideal trail companions!

Swaledale
Yorkshire Dales, Lake District
Recognisable by their curled horns and black faces with white rings around the eyes, Swaledales are true icons of the north. They’re as much a part of the upland scenery as the fells themselves.

Welsh Mountain Sheep
Snowdonia Slate Trail, Offa’s Dyke Path
Small, scrappy, and incredibly tough, these white-faced sheep are perfect for the rugged terrain you’ll explore in Wales. Bonus: they pose beautifully for trail photos.

Southdown
South Downs Way, Dorset Coast Path
Stroll along chalky coastal ridges and you’ll find these teddy bear-like sheep grazing peacefully beside your path.

Rarer Breeds to Look Out For

Cotswold Sheep
Cotswold Way
Once known as the “Cotswold Lions,” these long-woolled sheep are majestic to behold. Spotting one on a walk feels like discovering a piece of living history.

Manx Loaghtan
Isle of Man Coast Path
A true trail treasure—these rare, mousey-brown sheep can have up to six spiralling horns! One of the many quirky delights you’ll encounter while hiking the coastal circuit of the Isle of Man.

Did Ewe Know? Trailside Trivia to Impress Your Walking Companions

• Sheep were first domesticated around 6000 BC, and they’ve been part of the walking landscape ever since.

• Wool is naturally fire-resistant. Great to know if you’re warming up near a log burner after a day on the trail.

• These clever creatures can recognise human faces and even solve simple problems, like opening gates. (Which explains how they sometimes turn up on the wrong side of a fence!)

• Most sheep are resistant to snake venom. Useful if you’re sharing a trail with adders!

• While they can swim, their wool makes it challenge - so don’t expect any sheepy synchronised swimming displays.

• They have an incredible 270–320° field of vision. Ideal for spotting dogs, walkers, and suspicious hikers with trail snacks.

• Sheep have scent glands on their feet and faces. They leave invisible calling cards all over the hills.

• Sheep pregnancies last about 145 days. Ram goes in on Bonfire Night, lambs arrive on April Fool's Day.
  “In with a bang, out like fools!”

So Next Time You’re Walking…

…don’t just admire the views. Take a moment to appreciate the four-legged residents who’ve shaped the landscape you’re exploring. Their ancestors grazed these same hills and valleys centuries before hiking boots were invented, and their presence brings character, charm, and a true sense of place to your walking holiday.

Because they’re not just sheep. They’re storytellers, trailblazers, and fellow travellers in their own right.

So go on—next time you see one, give a cheerful:
“What are Ewe?”
And maybe, just maybe, the hill will echo back:
“I am a Ewe!”

Want to walk with sheep? 
Check out our walking holidays through the Lake District, Snowdonia, the South Downs, the Cotswolds, and more—where you can share the path with these woolly wanderers (and maybe pick up a few sheep facts along the way).

Your options for Walking in Provence:

Why Do People Go on Guided Walks?

“A major reason people choose guided walks is the group experience,” Jon explains. “Walkers enjoy meeting new people and sharing the journey together. Some participants, although fit, might lack confidence in navigating or walking alone, so they appreciate the added security of a guided group.”

What are the Main Differences Between Guided and Self-Guided Walking?

According to Jon, the key distinction lies in the level of support and expertise provided:

• Guided Walking Tours: An experienced guide accompanies you every day. They handle route-finding, ensure group safety, and adapt plans to suit weather conditions. Guides often share insights about the area's human and natural history, manage accommodations, arrange meals, and troubleshoot issues.
• Self-Guided Walking Tours: You’re in charge of your own experience. While this gives you the freedom to walk at your own pace and create a personal schedule, you’re responsible for navigation, safety, and coordinating logistics.

Who Typically Joins Guided Walks?

Guided groups often include likeminded walkers from their 40s to early 70s, but ages can vary widely. Groups are usually made up of 6-12 participants from across the globe, providing an intimate and manageable dynamic.

Do Travellers Need to Bring Their Own Food?

What Happens if There are Different Walking Speeds in the Group?

• For faster walkers: “Those seeking a more athletic pace may want to consider a self-guided trip if they are conscious about this and the effect a slower pace may have on their enjoyment of the holiday."
• For slower walkers: “It’s essential to assess your fitness level before joining a guided walk. Tours are graded to ensure participants can handle the distances and conditions comfortably. A safety aspect comes into play here.”

Grading & Safety

Do You Need to Be More or Less Prepared for a Guided Trip vs. Self-Guided?

Preparation is key for both types of trips, but the requirements differ:

• Guided Walks: Physical preparation should match the grade of the trip. The guide handles logistics, safety, and navigation, making it easier for participants to focus on enjoying the walk.

• Self-Guided Walks: These require a higher level of personal preparation. You’ll need to plan your itinerary, navigate, ensure your safety, and locate accommodations. “There’s more independence, but it also means more responsibility,” Jon explains.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

A Wildlife Wonderland in The Farne Islands

Declared by Sir David Attenborough as his favourite place to see nature in the UK, the Farne Islands are a true gem of Northumberland. This group of rocky islets is home to the largest colony of puffins in the UK, where these colourful seabirds return each year to reunite with their lifelong mates. Visitors can spot around 23 different bird species here, including razorbills, guillemots, and eider ducks.

For the best experience, plan your visit between mid-April and late July, when the islands are teeming with life. During this period, you can also catch sight of adorable baby puffins, affectionately known as ‘pufflings,’ on a boat trip in June.

Autumn brings another spectacular sight: up to 3,000 fluffy white seal pups lining the beaches. The Farne Islands boast England’s largest breeding colony of Grey Seals, and these playful creatures can often be seen bobbing in the water, alongside occasional sightings of dolphins and porpoises.

Witness the Holy Island on Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Just a short journey from the Farnes lies the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, a sanctuary rated as one of Europe’s best sites for waders and wildfowl. The reserve’s diverse habitats, from tidal mudflats to salt marshes, attract an impressive array of birdlife.

Holy Island is a beautiful place and the priory ruins, dating back 1400 years, are atmospheric. There is a castle on the island and until 1893 this served as a defensive garrison. In 1901 It became a private residence redesigned by Edwin Lutyens. If the tide permits, you can walk the traditional pilgrim’s route across the sands at low-tide.

One of the reserve’s most iconic residents is the curlew, the UK’s largest wading bird. With their haunting call and elegant, stilt-like legs, curlews are a striking presence along the Northumberland coast. Visitors may also encounter ospreys, marsh harriers, and brent geese migrating from Svalbard.

Walk the Ancient Hadrian's Wall

More to Explore Along the Northumberland Coast

Beyond the Farnes and Lindisfarne, Northumberland’s coastal landscapes offer a rich tapestry of habitats. Woodland trails, wildflower meadows, and sandy beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful walking holiday. Keep your eyes peeled for the incredible diversity of flora and fauna that call this region home.

For history enthusiasts, Northumberland’s ancient castles add a touch of magic to its walking routes. Stroll along coastal paths to the iconic Bamburgh Castle, perched dramatically above golden sands, or explore the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, accessible via a scenic walk from Craster. The enchanting Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island, surrounded by tidal waters, offers another unforgettable destination for walkers. Each castle tells a story of the region’s rich heritage, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue.

For nature enthusiasts, every season brings something special. From the bustling seabird colonies of summer to the serene beauty of autumn’s seal pups and migrating geese, Northumberland never fails to enchant.

Tips for Your Visit to Northumberland

• Plan your timing: Visit mid-April to late July for seabirds and puffins, or October for seal pups.
• Take a boat trip: On our Walk Northumberland Coast Path & Lindisfarne holiday, we recommend taking a boat trip out to the Farne Islands on Day 4.
• Stay aware of the tides: When visiting Lindisfarne (Holy Island), check Holy Island tide schedules to ensure safe crossing.
• Pack binoculars: A good pair of binoculars is essential to fully appreciate the diverse birdlife.

At Walkers’ Britain, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of Fiona Marshall as our new Chief Product Officer. Fiona joins us with an extraordinary background in the adventure travel industry, and we are excited about the wealth of expertise and passion she brings to our team.

Fiona’s career spans decades of leadership in active travel. She previously served as Product Director at Macs Adventure, where she played a pivotal role in expanding their operations across Europe and North America. Before that, she spent 20 years at KE Adventure Travel, excelling in roles such as General Manager and Head of Product. 

Her track record in creating guided and self-guided walking tours is unmatched, and her love for active travel resonates deeply with our values.

As we move forward after celebrating our 50th anniversary in 2023, Fiona’s appointment marks the start of an exciting new chapter. Since our founding in 1973 as Sherpa Expeditions, Walkers’ Britain has been at the forefront of active holidays. 

We were the first UK company to offer supported guided and self-guided walking tours, a concept we launched in 1993 that has set the standard for active travel ever since.

Today, our offerings include over 200 walking and cycling holidays across the British Isles and Europe, drawing travellers from all over the world—including the USA, Canada, and Australia. 

Fiona will help us build on this legacy by crafting new and inspiring tours that highlight the best of active and cultural travel while continuing to strengthen our relationships within the travel industry.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to embark on this journey with Walkers’ Britain. Together, we’re shaping exciting new adventures, and I can’t wait to help deliver incredible travel experiences to our customers.”

- Fiona Marshall

Some of our most loved trails in the UK include the Coast to Coast, South West Coast Path, Hadrian’s Wall Path, and West Highland Way. Across Europe, the Mont Blanc region and the Dolomites remain top choices for hiking enthusiasts.

“Fiona’s expertise is invaluable as we expand our reach and grow closer to the travel trade. Her vision and connections will help us continue delivering exceptional adventures for travellers worldwide.”

- Els Van Veelen, Brand Manager

With Fiona on board, we are eager to innovate and inspire even more travellers to experience the joy of walking holidays. Here’s to the next chapter of exploration and adventure with Walkers’ Britain!