The Esplanade Hotel Blog

The South West Coast Path is a 630-mile long trail that stretches along England's southwest coastline, offering stunning views of dramatic cliffs, picturesque beaches, charming villages, and rich wildlife, making it one of the country's most iconic hiking routes. We were thrilled to sit down with Aletha Mays from the South West Coast Path Association to delve deeper...

Tell us about the South West Coast Path Association

We are the charity that has for over half a century been championing the South West Coast Path to make it one of the world’s great trails. We provide vital information to help people explore and enjoy the Path, as well as raise funds to maintain and improve access. We protect the Path from the impact of climate change and build resilience to futureproof the Trail.

Our Coast Path Connectors is a community engagement programme enabling more people to access the Path. We work with over 500 businesses along the SWCP route that enhance the journey for Path users alongside the Coast Path Passport scheme – a Camino-style passport.

Where is the Coast Path route?

The South West Coast Path is 630 miles. It starts in Minehead, Somerset, and wraps its way around the coastlines of Devon and Cornwall, finishing in Poole, Dorset. It is England’s longest National Trail and the original coast path route. In 2024, it was named ‘the world’s happiest walk' and is known as one of the world’s great trails. The Path between Porthcothan and Newquay is 10 miles - get out and explore!

What advice would you give to SWCP novices?

The SWCP is an incredible experience. However, it is a challenging path in places, so we recommend undertaking research before setting out. Our website provides a range of advice to help you plan your South West Coast Path adventure.

How do trails like SWCP benefit our mental health?

It is a well-researched fact that being in the outdoors is good for our mental and physical well-being. Walking in green and blue spaces (being close to the sea) is a powerful combination that can improve our general health. The SWCP provides access to incredible coastal environments, and we hear many stories of people’s experiences on the Path being transformative. The best-selling memoir by Raynor Winn, The Salt Path, is a testament to the healing and restorative powers of walking the Path.

What is the Coast Path Passport?

The Coast Path Passport is a camino-style passport, that encourages people to explore the Coast Path and record their journey as they travel different sections. There are almost 200 stamping points along the Path, located at our Way Maker businesses, such as cafes, hotels, restaurants, museums, and 24 National Coastwatch Institution stations.

What threats does the SWCP face?

Increasingly severe storms, rising sea levels, coastal erosion and increased footfall are just some of the challenges we’re facing when it comes to looking after the Path. And the costs of doing so, continue to soar. Over the past five years, we’ve had to invest an extra £2 million to keep the Path in good condition, and yet the Path remains vulnerable. The SWCP costs £1,500 per mile per year to look after. Support from our members and supporters is vital to keep the Path protected now and for future generations.

Where are your favourite sections? And why.

I live in West Cornwall, so it may come as no surprise that my favourite section is close to home. I love the remote section between Zennor and Land’s End. The rugged beauty, granite cliffs, mining heritage, small coves and sandy beaches, and far-reaching views of the Isles of Scilly make me smile, whatever the weather. It also holds my favourite spot on the Path to watch a sunset – Pendeen Lighthouse.

How can the SWCP be supported?

You can support the South West Coast Path through volunteering, becoming a member, fundraising, donating, and helping to share our message. Our mission is to protect, enhance and celebrate the Coast Path as one of the world’s great trail experiences. But we can’t do this alone, if you think you can support the South West Coast Path Association in their vital work, go to www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk for further information.