Coastal Walks

Website includes details of three Trails: [1] The Blue Trail - - - : [2] The Red Trail - - - : [3] The Runkerry Trail: 'The Giant's Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption ... It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986, and a national nature reserve in 1987 by the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland. In a 2005 poll of [BBC] Radio Times readers, the Giant's Causeway was named as the fourth greatest natural wonder in the United Kingdom'.

'I am walking around the coast of Great Britain, starting at Tower Bridge in London (that well known coastal resort) on Monday 6th April 2015 and walking anti-clockwise. This isn’t a world first as other people have done it before, although with so many islands, estuaries and no defined coastal path the whole way round, it’s difficult to be precise about anything. I have reckoned on taking one year and covering approximately 6000 miles.' On 13 June 2016, Lucy had reached Penzance, having walked so far a total of 2574 miles.

My walk around the British coastline, in stages  'I started in Kings Lynn, on the Lincolnshire/Norfolk border, on April 18th 2010. I have been walking clockwise round the coast of mainland Britain, in stages, since then.'

'A network of coastal and inland paths between Cullen in the North and St Cyrus in the South.'

'Selection of ten circular walks from every corner of the island ... short, hilly, coastal, heritage, walks beside Roman remains, porpoise and seal watching walks, bat, moth, wildlife and bird watching walks. All these walks have something in common. You will find some of the most captivating coastal scenery in Britain.'

'The Ayrshire Coastal Path from Glenapp to Skelmorlie runs 100 miles along one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles. Crowned with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde, this coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife.'

'Benone Beach stretches for over 7 miles from Downhill westwards to where it meets Magilligan Point at the mouth of Lough Foyle and forms part of one of Ireland's longest beaches. Benone Beach, a Blue Flag award winning beach, is popular throughout the year for a variety of outdoor activities and events with great views along the North Coast, to Inishowen in Donegal and to Scotland.

Alert Website Link changed from original.

'Stretching for some 48km from Cockburnspath in the north down to the English Border and Berwick-upon-Tweed, the Berwickshire Coastal Path provides some superb walking. The northern end of the route links up with the Southern Upland Way, whilst the John Muir Way which continues round the coastline of East Lothian is accessible via a short link.'

'This lengthy walk along the prom from Blackpool to Fleetwood offers excellent exercise. In addition there is a wide variety of sights and sounds to absorb from the glitter of the golden mile to solitude at Rossall Point.'

'Links the Dorset Coast Path, the final and most easterly section of the 572 mile South-West Coast Path, with the Solent Way running from Milford-on-Sea to Emworth. This creates a continuous 652 mile route from Minehead in Somerset to Emsworth on the Hampshire-Surrey border.'

'I did this walk on Sunday 23rd September 2007. I had been going to walk along the Medway Valley from Strood to Maidstone but I had got up a bit too late (again) to get a suitable train and thus drove to Canvey Island instead to continue my series of walks on the Essex coast. It was a fine day with plenty of sunshine and felt quite warm for the time of the year despite a fairly strong breeze ... '

'The Causeway Coast Way is a relatively easy low-lying coastal walk in the north-east of Northern Ireland. It takes a walker of average fitness 2-3 days to complete. The Trail links the popular tourist towns of Ballycastle and Portstewart and passes some of the biggest tourist attractions in Northern Ireland. These include the Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle. Bushmills Distillery is also just a short detour from the trail. The Causeway Coast Way is just a section of the Ulster Way trail, which completes a 1,000km circuit of Northern Ireland.'

'Follows the spectacular and varied coastline of Cardigan Bay on the west coast of Wales. Stunning scenery, picturesque villages and a wealth of wildlife - including the highest numbers of dolphin sightings in the UK - make Ceredigion a perfect place for a week's coastal walking.'

'The Christchurch Coastal Path is 2.5 miles long and runs from the car park to Highcliffe Castle and on to the Green Flag award winning Steamer Point Woodland and Mudeford Quay ...' ALERT The Website cited here seems no longer. So I replaced the Link with one to the Saturday Walkers' Club.

'Fills the 55 km gap between the top of the Ayrshire Coastal Path and the West Highland Way It is an essential link in the International Appalachian Trail (Scotland) which traverses the entire western seaboard of Scotland from the Mull of Galloway to Cape Wrath.'

'Three rivers flow out into the Wash, namely the Welland, the Nene and The Ouse. Public footpaths follow the defence banks that border these rivers and the marshes that adjoin the coastline in between. The A17 provides bridges across these watercourses at Fosdyke, Sutton Bridge and West Lynn respectively. The walks are typical of this fenland area with vast open landscapes and huge skies which provide a unique charm to this part of the English coast.'

'3 Award-Winning Galleries - Towner Art Gallery in Eastbourne, De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill and the Jerwood Gallery in Hastings - connected by 25 miles of coastline in East Sussex.'

'This is the diary of a walk of some 180 miles on the Cumbria Coastal Way (CCW) by Peter and Jeanne Donaghy and John and Gillian Laidler, two couples verging on their seventies, reasonably experienced walkers and joint authors of 3 walking guides (Lakeland Church Walks, Northumbria Church Walks and Metro Walks).'

''From Sunderland to Hartlepool, the Durham Heritage Coast has emerged from its industrial past to an area worthy of Heritage Coast status with one of the finest coastlines in England ... '

'Embleton Bay is a magnificent stretch of sand and dunes between Low Newton and the majestic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, perfect for a easy wander. If you'd rather relax and enjoy the scenery, then when not bring your rug and lie on the lower slopes of the dunes.'

'A new National Trail all around England's coast. It's not ready yet but work is underway to make it happen ... A similar initiative has already happened in Wales, you can find out more on the Wales Coast Path website.'

'The 35 km stretch of the England Coast Path from Allonby to Whitehaven is now open to the public. Coastal Access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on Friday 11 April 2014 by Order of the Secretary of State.'

'On 10 July 2014 the Secretary of State announced his decision to approve a stretch of the England Coast Path in Somerset between Brean and Minehead ... On 15 January 2016 the Secretary of State announced her decision to approve proposals to change the previously approved route for this stretch of coast in 2 places: Dunball Wharf and St Audries Bay ... New access rights will come into force along the route and adjoining spreading room on 15 March 2016.'

'The 47 km (29 miles) stretch of the England Coast Path (ECP) from Camber to Folkestone is now open to the public. Coastal access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on 19 July 2016 by order of the Secretary of State.'

'The 110 km (68 miles) stretch of the England Coast Path from Filey Brigg to Newport Bridge is now open to the public. Coastal access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on 21 July 2016 by order of the Secretary of State.'

'The 34 km stretch of the England Coast Path (ECP) from Hopton-on-Sea to Sea Palling is now open to the public. Coastal access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on the 24 October 2016 by order of the Secretary of State.'

'The 55 km stretch of the England Coast Path from North Gare to South Bents is now open to the public. Coastal access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on 11 April 2014 by Order of the Secretary of State.'

'The first stretch of the England Coast Path, from Rufus Castle on Portland to Lulworth Cove, is open to the public. Coastal access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on 29 June 2012.'

'The 41km stretch of the England Coast Path (ECP) from Sea Palling to Weybourne is now open to the public. Coastal access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on 12 December 2014 by order of the Secretary of State ... Sections of it follow the existing Norfolk Coast Path between Cromer and Weybourne..'

'The development of the Exe Estuary Trail is an important element of the County Council's aspirations to encourage more sustainable and healthy travel by walking and cycling ...  The Exe Estuary is a fantastic and beautiful place to live, work and visit. As organisations with responsibility for managing aspects of the Estuary we work together in voluntary partnership, balancing competing demands and addressing any conflicts as they arise, to help ensure that the Estuary retains its magic far into the future ...'

'Runs from the Forth Estuary in the south, to the Tay Estuary in the north and stretches for 117 miles. The path is clearly waymarked and offers a range of walking experiences from the easy and level, to the wild and demanding.'

'Coastal walk between Gorleston and Kessingland crossing the border from Norfolk to Suffolk.'

'A walk along the little-known western coastal Hadrianic frontier based upon the thesis that the Roman defences extended south beyond Maryport as far as Ravenglass, with its Roman Fort - Glannoventa.'

Clifford Jones is the originator of the thesis and 'writes walking guides about Roman routes in the area. His first book, Hadrian's Coastal Route is published elsewhere. The second, Eastern Hadrianic Way, is published by BJAP [Buckland Jones Archaeological Press]'.

'This is a lovely cliff top walk starting at the car park near Fairlight Coastguard Station (CS). Simply walk down the track to the CS, turn right onto the well marked coastal path and enjoy the views. If in doubt of the route, keep the sea to your left. To return, simply follow the outward route. And don’t forget, if you only do one way you’ll need some form of transport to get back to Fairlight if you park there!' Note 'Bandwidth Limit Exceeded' can be encountered on the Website.

'Using the 7km beachside traffic-free route is the perfect way to discover the extensive Hastings seafront – with plenty of places to shop, eat and explore along the way. The Route Map lists things to look out for and some places to stop for refreshments on the route.'

'Provides delightful scenic walks, with views across the Clyde to the Dumbartonshire hills, the Argyllshire hills and the Highlands. It offers around 20 miles of easy walking, with a mixture of rural paths and urban promenades.'

'Developing long distance route that follows much of the island’s coastline. The path primarily caters for walkers however cyclists and horse riders can also enjoy certain sections.'

'Provides both low level walks and continuous walking around the coast of Arran. Walkers can now use a route around Arran's coastline in all weather conditions, that passes through most of the villages on the island.'

'Exhilarating walk around the island's coastline. It can easily be done in four or five days of walking, although very fit people may choose to do it in as little as three.'

'Since 2012 I have explored over 140 miles of Kent & Sussex shoreline in day walks. My intention is to publish an ebook of my journey for everyone to enjoy ...' Sixty Walks in total.

'Footpath following the Lancashire coastline from Merseyside to Cumbria. The Lancashire coastal walk provides spectacular views of Morecambe Bay, the Bowland Fells and the Lake District, and the opportunity, particularly in spring and autumn, to observe the large variety of waders and seabirds for which the Lancashire coast and estuaries are internationally important.'

'it is now possible to walk around the entire perimeter of Langstone Harbour, following the "Langstone Harbour Waterside Walk". Waymarkers clearly mark the 14 mile route, which can be completed in its entirety in 5 or 6 hours, depending on your pace. The Waterside Walk will lead you through many of the harbour's nature reserves, as well as showing you parts of Langstone Harbour's more industrial side ...'

An overview of a possible route for a Lincolnshire Coast Path  'There is currently no official Lincolnshire Coast Path although Natural England are committed to having something in place as part of the English Coast Path by 2020. This overview details the current possible routes taken from research conducted into a walk between Cleethorpes and Boston during September 2014.'

'By following the Llŷn Coastal Path you can enjoy the splendour of the area’s diverse landscape: there are small coves and wide expanses of sand, rugged cliffs, ever changeable seas, small harbours and wild heath land. You will be walking in the footsteps of the early pilgrims and experience an area that has history and culture deep in the soil. You will also experience countryside rich in wildlife.'

'A lovely walk following the coastal paths and a few roads north from Lowestoft and through Great Yarmouth.'

'This is a simple walk around Mersea Island. The northern half is quiet, mostly along the sea wall, with tidal flats on one side and farm land on the other. The southern half is mostly along the beach, with the Blackwater Estuary on the left and beach huts and chalets on shore. Keep an eye on the tide - in some places, when the tide comes in the beach disappears completely and you need to be on the sea wall or you could be in trouble.'

'The Walkway has been built of the highest quality natural stone and opened up waterfront land that had been closed to the public for centuries.'

'The coastline and settlements of Moray are linked by a waymarked coastal trail of approximately 50 miles from Forres to Findhorn, Cullen and all the places between.'

A part of the (rather elusive) North Sea Trail, between John O'Groats and Cullen: 'The trail is not a continuous route, but a network of paths and trails. These avoid main roads, and feature some of the most interesting and scenic sections of the coast.' ALERT Unfortunately, a Moray Firth Trail Website and a Page Turning e-Brochure originally referenced on the Website no longer seem accessible; nor now a 32-page PDF Leaflet.  But the Moray Firth Partnership itself continues to be active.

'Runs from the Mull to Stranraer and continues north as the Loch Ryan Coastal Path for a total distance of 35 miles to Glenapp in South Ayrshire where it links with the Ayrshire Coastal Path.'

'Extends from Holywood in the west to Orlock in the east. The path passes through coastline and parkland. Historic relics and flora and fauna are found in abundance, including the grey seals which can be spotted offshore.

'Welcome to the North Sea Trail website of wonderful walks along the North Yorkshire Coast. It's a great way to enjoy the natural and cultural heritage of our fascinating coastline.' Note that the North Sea Trail Website seems now to have disappeared completely, so I have replaced the Link with one to the LDWA Website.

'Ambitious and exciting project, aiming to create a continuous, multi-use trail running along the coast from Carlisle to Chester, linking some of the North West’s greatest coastal landscapes, heritage and settlements.' Alert 'Please note that with the work now progressing on the England Coastal Path the Forum is no longer leading on coastal access although we do still have an ambition to help to secure improved access for horse riding and cycling to and along the North West’s coast.'

'Offers some of the finest coastal walking in Europe, it stretches for 103 km along the Northumberland Coast AONB from Cresswell in the South to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the North.' Note that this Website Link replaces one from Northumberland County Council which I could no longer find ...'

'This page is for those who like to walk on the coast but prefer round walks to linear ones. This is the format: descriptions, Oliver's Diary, detailed route directions, GPS data and information about parking, refreshments, interest etc. As at November 2015 a total of 46 walks are included here, listed in a counter-clockwise direction, starting at Northcott Mouth, and finishing at Kingsand. From time to time I shall add other walks, probably in a random order ...'

'This is the (almost) complete guide to the Cornish Coast Path. It carries Descriptions of each of 36 suggested stages, Oliver's Diary, Notes of Interest on and off the Coast Path, GPS Data and Useful Information on parking, transport, refreshments and more. Where possible I have included features on places of interest along the way ... '

'Starts in Suffolk at Knettishall Heath Country Park and follows the route of a Roman road to Holme-next-the-Sea on the north Norfolk coast. At Holme the Peddars Way meets the Norfolk Coast Path as it runs from Hunstanton to Cromer.'

'From St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south, the trail covers almost every kind of maritime landscape from rugged cliff tops and sheltered coves to wide-open beaches and winding estuaries.'

'A 7.7 mile Walk along part of the Raad ny Foillan - the coastal path all around the Isle of Man - from Port St Mary to Port Erin, taking in the splendor of The Calf of Man and The Sound along the way.'

The Website has an 11 minutes October 2012 YouTube video recording of highlights of this Walk.

The Isle of Man Coastal Path was 'inaugurated some 25 years ago though Jenkinson suggested it in his guide of 1874 !'.

'The farthest corner of the Isle of Thanet is arguably where the east coast of England meets the south coast, though the gently curving coastline makes it hard to identify a precise turning point. This gentle walk along the coast passes 3 historic seaside towns and many bays and beaches.'

'A walk in along a bleak moorland track is amply rewarded when the fabulous views of Sandwood Bay come into view, perhaps the most beautiful beach in Britain. Spend time exploring the mile of golden sand and dunes, with rocky cliffs and a giant sea stack to complete the scene. Despite its popularity, Sandwood Bay never seems busy as the beach is big enough to absorb the visitors.'

'Imagine stepping back in time and discovering the coastline of the Garden of England as it stood more than 1,600 years ago. The Saxon Shore Way long distance walking route is named after the line of historic fortifications that defended the Kent coast at the end of the Roman era.'

'Folkestone has a wide variety different options for seafront walks, depending on how energetic you're feeling and what you're looking for.' ALERT Website Links changed.

'A stimulating journey through a wonderful variety of landscapes with a rich biodiversity of wildlife and a fascinating history.'

'Long-distance coastal walking route from the seaside town of Milford-on-Sea past the hustle and bustle of seafronts, quiet yachting harbours, deserted marshland and saltings to finish at Emsworth Harbour.'

'Walk along the coast between the River Tyne and Whitburn Bents passing Marsden Rock and Souter Lighthouse.'

'One of the best walks in the world, where else can you walk along 630 miles of such superb coastline? The heritage, wildlife, geology and scenery along the way are truly inspirational. This Trail really is the walk of a lifetime. The Trail has its own Website full of information - visit it here.'

The Longest Pleasure Pier in the World  'If you walk along Southend-on-Sea's High Street, towards the sea, your eye will be drawn in a straight line towards the longest pleasure Pier in the world. Standing for over a century it extends 2.158 kilometres (1.341 miles) into the Thames Estuary, and is a well loved and recognised symbol of Southend and the pleasures of the English seaside ...'

'St Mary's is the largest of the Isles of Scilly and has the islands' capital, Hugh Town. Hugh Town occupies the low area of the island and has sandy beaches on both sides. To the east the main island has a mixture of rocky cliffs and sandy beaches whilst to the west the Garrison is mostly rocky, with a garrison wall running around it.'

'Long distance footpath from Felixstowe to Lowestoft in easy stages through some of the most characteristic landscapes of the AONB. The path, formerly known as the Suffolk Heritage Coast Path, has recently been extended to include the Orford Loop which provides access through to Orford. Alternative beach walks, providing the tide is right, can be undertaken throughout.'

Check the current Suffolk Coast Path Restrictions before setting out.

A brief guide with Links to a range of Walks around and about the coast of Suffolk.

'Following the Thanet Coastal Path is a unique experience following the longest continuous stretch of coastal chalk coastline in the country - and covers the extensive Blue Flag beaches and wealth of coastal and marine wildlife that is covered by the international designation of the North East Kent European marine site ... In many places, the coastal path has been upgraded as part of longer Viking Coastal Trail [32 miles cycle route] that roughly encircles the former Isle of Thanet from the coast (Reculver to Pegwell Bay), to the inland villages of Minster, Monkton and St Nicholas-at-Wade.'

'Tales of walking the coastline of Essex and Suffolk, containing low cant phrases and loose, unconnected, slipshod allusions ...'

'These high chalk cliffs look out onto the English Channel, giving far-reaching views towards the French coast. The best way to see the cliffs is to take a walk along the coastal path towards South Foreland Lighthouse. You’ll get a great view of the cliffs and also see the chalk grassland that’s home to so many unusual plants and insects like the chalkhill blue butterfly and the pyramidal orchid.'

'One of the most attractive circular leisure cycle routes in Kent, covering 32 miles (51.4km), taking in the coast of Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate before heading inland through the surrounding villages.'

'Developed by the Welsh Government in partnership with Natural Resources Wales (incorporating the former Countryside Council for Wales), sixteen local authorities and two National Parks. In addition to funding from the Welsh Government and the coastal local authorities of approximately £2 million per year, the European Regional Development Fund has allocated nearly £4 million over four years in support of the project.'

'Runs from the hamlet of Steart to the coastal resort of Minehead and passes through the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Coast Path links the River Parrett Trail to the South West Coast Path National Trail. The path also joins the Coleridge Way and Quantock Greenway just south of the A39 near East Quantoxhead.'

'This walk is probably better known as Robinson Crusoe's walk since this is where Daniel Defoe places his character, in the novel of the same name, after being shipwrecked with a resulting walk to Great Yarmouth. Although such a stormy day would not make the best of walks, when the sun shines and the tide is out this really is a great walk.'