We think the UK’s National Trails offer some of the best ways to enjoy the coast. Located all over the UK, they provide access to some of the most beautiful and inspirational land and seascapes imaginable.
Meandering over beaches and tracing undulating clifftops, they have been connecting people with the landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales since 1965 and promise rewarding experiences for all generations of hikers. Managed by Natural England and Natural Resources Wales, these long-distance trails follow designated footpaths and bridleways around the UK and are waymarked with an acorn symbol.
We thoroughly recommend exploring some of the UK’s best National Trails on a hiking holiday by the coast, ready to enjoy the unique character of each route and experience a wealth of things to see and do along the way.
The Norfolk Coast Path
The Norfolk Coast Path is undoubtedly one of the best National Trails for hiking holidays by the coast in the UK. A long-distance footpath spanning the Norfolk coastline, it was opened in 1986 and extends for 83 miles from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea. With much of the trail running through jaw-dropping National Landscape, it sets an exquisite backdrop for both leisurely ambles and multi-day excursions. Map out your route and anticipate a beautiful natural tapestry, from seaside towns with sandy beaches to tidal marsh and pine woodland. Highlights include Hunstanton Cliffs, Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney Point, Cromer, and Sea Palling.
The South West Coast Path
One of the most famous of the UK’s National Trails is the South West Coast Path. The longest waymarked long-distance footpath in England, it stretches for an impressive 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. The setting of Raynor Win’s hugely popular memoir, The Salt Path, it encompasses four counties and encourages journeys through mesmerising landscapes along the way. Running through National Parks, National Landscapes, two World Heritage Sites, a UNESCO Biosphere and a UNESCO Geopark, there truly is something to marvel at every moment.
Local ecology student, Jemma Short, is often out on the coast path for both work and leisure and shares her love of this beloved trail: “I feel very fortunate to live so close to the SWCP, a trail that people come from all over the world to enjoy. In summer, the yellow and purple carpets of gorse and heather are simply stunning. Looking out to sea and catching glimpses of seals popping their heads above the surface is always exciting! I even love being up on the cliffs on a wet and blustery day, looking down in awe at the power of the sea – especially as I know I can soon be home, warm and dry!”
The South Downs Way
The South Downs Way is a long-distance footpath and bridleway that travels along the South Downs in South East England. Extending for 100 miles from Winchester in Hampshire to Eastbourne in East Sussex, it follows the ridgeline of a chalky escarpment and offers a peaceful escape in nature. Perfect for hiking holidays by the sea, The South Downs Way features well-known segments along the region’s Heritage Coast. One of the best areas for day-long hikes, the Seven Sisters Country Park is especially magnetic and awaits with breath-taking walks along East Sussex’s famous white cliffs. Pack a day-bag full of provisions and set out on foot, ready to absorb rolling sea vistas and reset in the salty air.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Whether you are seeking secluded coves perfect for picnicking, clifftop vistas for wildlife watching, or large sandy swathes for bathing under the sun, it is hard to find a more beautiful destination than coastal Pembrokeshire. With over 180 miles, 50 beaches, 40 Iron Age forts and countless natural wonders to see along the way, this superb National Trail is a sea-lover’s dream. Start in St Dogmaels in the north or Amroth in the south and make your way along the coast, shoulder-to-shoulder with the sea. If you are hoping to complete the whole trail, then the National Trails authority recommends between 10 and 15 days to do so. Otherwise, pick your favourite sections and set a leisurely pace for heavenly days by the shore.
Great Glen Way
For a waterside walk with a twist, why not consider Scotland’s Great Glen Way? A 79-mile-long National Trail, this awe-inspiring route runs from Fort William to Inverness alongside loch and canal. Whether you are looking for purely boot-based travel or would like to incorporate sections with bikes and boats too, the GGW promises a dynamic and rewarding experience amongst some of the UK’s most captivating scenery. For seasoned ramblers, the whole trail can be walked from start to finish in around four to seven days; however, it also beckons for day and hour-long walks in the wilds. Along with plenty of waterways to soothe thalassophiles, the loch-side town of Fort William and coastal city of Inverness are also in easy reach of beautiful coastlines for even more ocean escapism. Take a look at our places to stay on the coast of Scotland.
King Charles III England Coast Path
For those seeking even more hiking holidays by the coast, keep your eyes on the King Charles III England Coast Path. Still largely known as simply the England Coast Path, this long-distance walking trail is set to become the UK’s longest-distance path, following the whole of England’s coastline. Many sections of the route are already open for exploration, while many more are soon to follow!
Get Away for a Walking Holiday by the Sea
Looking for a heavenly sanctuary for your hiking holiday by the coast? Offering a comfortable and relaxing home away from home, our collection of cottages by the sea promises the most perfect base for walkers, including family and dog-friendly cottages too.
