England’s coastline holds a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient wonders, and hidden gems and welcomes thousands of hikers throughout the year. Regardless of when you plan to organize a walking vacation, there are many amazing coastal hikes in England hugging the shoreline from the chalkier southern stretch to the hillier northern edge.
From rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches close to tiny fishing villages, these coastal hikes offer great experiences for avid adventurers, nature enthusiasts, or history fanatics. Walking any of these routes isn’t just exercise – it’s an incredible opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of beaches and experience the country’s beautiful landscape, rich history, and landmark attractions.
If you expect your coastal walks to be a major part of your vacation or just a fragment of your itinerary, you won’t be disappointed by the wealth of seaside destinations to explore. Whether you’re after a holiday cottage next to a famous beach or are keen to discover pockets of Devon accessible only on foot, this island country boasts an extensive network of trails.
From elevated peaks atop pebbled beaches to narrow stretches of sandy shorelines, the 2,700-mile England Coast Path coils around the nation’s edge with many hidden gems to discover.
As well as packing your favorite pair of hiking boots, if you’re planning to drive the stretch of England, ensure you have a road-worthy car that has passed a valid vehicle health check. The majority of coastal hikes can be reached by road, train, or ferry, and once you arrive, the trails are well-signposted and mapped out. They are also suitable for walkers of varying levels of fitness as this article explores.
Southwest Coast Path (Cornwall and Devon)
The Southwest Coast Path is a legendary trail that winds through some of England’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes. Stretching over 630 miles, this path offers an epic journey through Cornwall and Devon’s dramatic coastline, where each step reveals a new marvel of natural beauty and maritime history.
This can be a long or short walk through rugged scenery, with a steady descent down the old lighthouse road to the headland. The prime time of year to plan this walk is during autumn, when you might be lucky enough to spot a hobby bird hunting swallows, or a merlin trying to pick off one of the linnets or finches.
Highlights:
- Rugged cliff formations
- Secluded, pristine coves
- Charming coastal villages
Must-See Attractions:
- Tintagel Castle: A dramatic medieval castle perched on rocky cliffs, steeped in Arthurian legend and offering spectacular views of the Celtic Sea.
- Port Isaac’s Picturesque Harbor: A charming fishing village famous for its narrow streets and as the breathtaking filming location of the TV series “Doc Martin”.
- If you’re a passionate eco-friendly traveler, look no further than The Eden Project. This revolutionary ecological park is housed in massive biodomes, showcasing global plant ecosystems and sustainable environmental practices.
Trailhead and Planner: Start Point Car Park at the postcode: TQ7 2ET. There is a steady descent down the old lighthouse road to the headland. It is suitable for mobility scooters and pushchairs. Click here for your printable map.
Read More: Enchanting Places To Visit in Devon and Cornwall
Dorset Coastal Path
For fossil hunters and fans of geology, the coastal stretch along the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jurassic Coast is a must-visit. This path offers a remarkable journey through 185 million years of Earth’s history. Hikers traverse a landscape that reads like a living textbook of geological transformation, with rock formations that tell stories of prehistoric times.
Highlights:
- Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site
- Geological rock formations
- Victorian seaside towns
Must-See Attractions:
- Durdle Door Natural Arch: An iconic limestone arch carved by centuries of coastal erosion, providing one of the most photographed views in England.
- Lulworth Cove: A perfectly circular bay formed by coastal erosion, offering stunning views, and a great beach for a spot of fabulous wild swimming.
- Fossil Hunting Sites: Areas where amateur paleontologists can discover prehistoric marine fossils embedded in the coastal rocks.
Trailhead and Planner: To choose where to start, finish, or decide what route to follow during your hike, note that the South West Coast Path is way marked by the acorn symbol as part of the UK’s National Trails. Download a route map here for this walk.
Kent Coastal Path
Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent’s coastal path is one of 16 National Trails covering the South East of England. It offers a unique blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance, connecting ancient landscapes with modern coastal communities. This is one of my favorite coastal hikes in England!
Highlights:
- White chalk cliffs
- Historic maritime towns
- Diverse marine ecosystems
Must-See Attractions:
- White Cliffs of Dover: Iconic limestone cliffs symbolizing British resilience and natural beauty.
- Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and center of the Anglican Church. If you love combining walks and seeing stunning churches, this area is within easy reach of London.
- Viking Coastal Trail: A route showcasing Kent’s ancient maritime connections and Viking heritage.
Trailhead and Planner: Start Point Car Park at the postcode: CT16 1LA. This is a linear route that runs in sections, starting from Camber Sands to the white cliffs of Ramsgate. Then, from Whitstable to the Kingsferry Bridge near Iwade.
The fourth section starts at Otterham Quay in Lower Rainham and ends near Stoke Marshes. The fifth and final stretch goes from the quaint village of Grain to Woolwich where it links up with the Thames Path, on a waymarked route. Visit the route map for this walk.
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Isle of Wight Coastal Path
Encircling the entire island, this path offers a unique 360-degree exploration of one of England’s most distinctive coastal landscapes, blending Victorian charm with prehistoric natural wonders.
Highlights:
- Varied coastal terrain
- Victorian seaside charm
- Dinosaur fossil locations
Must-See Attractions:
- Needles Park: Iconic chalk stacks and a historic lighthouse offering panoramic views.
- Osborne House: Queen Victoria’s beloved seaside residence, showcasing royal Victorian architecture.
- Dinosaur Fossil Beaches: This area has a wealth of prehistoric marine fossils to be discovered dating back to the Cretaceous period.
Trailhead and Planner: This is a circular route with many trail options.
East Sussex Heritage Coast
A stunning stretch of coastline that showcases some of England’s most dramatic chalk cliff landscapes, combining natural beauty with an exciting historic past.
Highlights:
- Seven Sisters chalk cliffs
- Historic lighthouses
- Scenic river estuaries
Must-See Attractions:
- Beachy Head: The highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, offering dramatic views.
- Cuckmere Haven: A unique river valley with meandering streams meeting the sea.
- Birling Gap: A historic coastal village with access to remarkable geological formations.
Trailhead and Planner: This coastal route is one part of the wider South Downs National Park group of walks. To join the shoreline section, catch the no. 12 or 12X bus to the Seven Sisters Country Park Visitor Centre.
The journey back: Take the no.3 or 3A bus to the town center and railway station. Alternatively, it is 1½ miles walk along the prom to the pier. Visit the map here for more details.
West Sussex Heritage Coast
A hidden gem of southern England’s coastline, the West Sussex Coastal Path offers a serene journey through diverse maritime landscapes, connecting historic seaside towns with pristine natural environments. This route showcases the subtle beauty of Sussex’s coastal regions, blending maritime heritage with ecological diversity.
Highlights:
- Varied coastal ecosystems
- Historic maritime settlements
- Unique coastal wildlife habitats
Must-See Attractions:
- Chichester Harbour: An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty featuring intricate waterways and rich marine biodiversity.
- Littlehampton’s Beach and Harbour: A charming coastal town with a historic harbor and award-winning beach promenade.
- Pagham Nature Reserve: A crucial wetland ecosystem hosting diverse bird species and unique coastal wildlife.
Trailhead and Planner: Start at Selsey depending on the section you choose to walk, as these are the main access points to the coastal path within West Sussex, and access them easily by public transport or car. Check the West Sussex circular map here.
Suffolk Coastal Path
A tranquil journey through some of England’s most unspoiled coastal landscapes, showcasing unique cottages, long sandy beaches, and traditional fishing communities.
Highlights:
- Coastal nature reserves
- Traditional fishing villages
- Unique marine habitats
Must-See Attractions:
- Aldeburgh: A charming coastal town with a wealth of art galleries and museums to enjoy.
- Orford Ness: A unique nature reserve with a fascinating military and scientific history.
- RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve: A world-renowned wildlife sanctuary.
Trailhead and Planner: Arrive by road, train or a ferry from Holland which travels daily to nearby Harwich International Port, and it’s then just a short journey up the A12 to Suffolk. Once here, choose an easy or more challenging route from this interactive map.
Norfolk Coastal Path
The Norfolk Coast Path offers a serene exploration of one of England’s most unique coastal ecosystems. Characterized by expansive salt marshes, shifting sand dunes, and an interesting maritime environment, this trail is especially relaxing.
The Norfolk Coast Path provides 84 miles (135 km)) of walking from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea through fantastic scenery and landscape. The majority of the Trail runs through the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
Highlights:
- Salt marshes and sand dunes
- Excellent birdwatching opportunities
- Tranquil coastal villages
Must-See Attractions:
- Wells-next-the-Sea: A charming coastal town with colorful beach huts, a historic harbor, and access to pristine beaches.
- Blakeney Point Seal Colony: A crucial marine conservation area where visitors can observe grey and common seals in their natural habitat on foot or from an organized seal-watching boat trip.
- Historic Windmills: Traditional Norfolk windmills that showcase the region’s agricultural and industrial heritage.
Trailhead and Planner: Begin your walk from Peddars Way at Knettishall Heath Country Park. Follow the route of a Roman road for 49 miles (79 Km) to Holme-next-the-Sea on the north Norfolk coast meeting the Norfolk Coast Path at Holme-next-the-Sea. See this interactive map for details.
Northumberland Coastal Path
Northumberland’s coastal path welcomes hikers on a memorable walk through a striking landscape of raw, untamed beauty. En route, record what you see and where you walk in a path passport. This is one of England’s most remote stretches of coastline with a unique blend of wilderness, history, and dramatic scenery that feels almost untouched by time.
Highlights:
- Pristine, windswept beaches
- Unique tidal walking routes
- Historic maritime landscapes
Must-See Attractions:
- Holy Island (Lindisfarne): A tidal island with a remarkable monastery, accessible only during low tide, representing a crucial site of early Christian heritage. Be aware of uneven cobbled ramps and steep steps.
- Bamburgh Castle: An imposing medieval fortress overlooking the North Sea, showcasing centuries of Northumbrian royal and military history.
- Farne Islands’ Seabird Colonies: A wildlife sanctuary hosting thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and arctic terns.
Trailhead and Planner: Begin your walk in Cresswell and finish up in Berwick-upon-Tweed on this easy route or veer off in numerous directions. Look for waymarkers and this map to navigate your way on the coastal path.
Cleveland Way (North Yorkshire)
Bridging the dramatic landscapes between the North York Moors and the Yorkshire coastline, this trail offers a spectacular journey through some of England’s most diverse and historic areas.
Highlights:
- Dramatic cliff landscapes
- Medieval coastal towns
- Stunning moorland views
Must-See Attractions:
- Whitby Abbey: A haunting medieval monastery that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the sea.
- Robin Hood’s Bay: Perfect for winter walks even during the coldest months of the year, this is a popular place to see. The charming former smugglers’ village has a myriad of narrow streets and a fascinating history.
- Scarborough Castle: An imposing medieval fortress with panoramic views of the North Sea.
Trailhead and Planner: Start at Helmsley and end on Filey Brigg seeing heather moorland and stunning coastal scenery en route. Look for waymarkers and look at the map to select your route.
Planning Your Coastal Adventures
Guided itineraries offer invaluable insights for visitors unfamiliar with the region. Professional guides can provide crucial information about:
- Best hiking seasons in England
- Wildlife migration patterns
- Seasonal marine animal sightings
- Local tide times for every coastal walk
- Hidden trail details
- Safety recommendations
The best times of year to hike in England are in the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). At these points, you can expect milder temperatures and fewer crowds. During these months, you’re also more likely to witness seal breeding seasons and migrating birds.
It’s worth learning about England’s “Right to Roam” guidelines. These will help you understand the local rules around land access, respecting natural landscapes, and following responsible hiking practices.
Coastal hiking in England is more than a trip—it’s an amazing and healthy experience that connects travelers with the country’s stunning shorelines, rich history, and diverse nature.
If you’re excited about planning a vacation that takes in one or more of these stunning coastal walks across England, we can help create your perfect itinerary so you don’t miss any hotspots along the way.
We can also advise you on the best time to visit, how long you should stay in each place, and what to see when you’re there. Get in touch and plan your guided walking trip today.
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