Made in collaboration with Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire, National Trails, Julia Bradbury and The Outdoor Guide
What Are The National Trails?
The National Trails are long distance walks through some of the very best landscapes the UK has to offer. Along the way, you can expect your emotions to be lifted through exposure to varied wildlife and for your curiosity to be engaged through insights into the past. With 16 to choose from, there is something to suit everyone, regardless of age or ability.
South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is one of the most famous and beautiful long-distance walking trails in England. Starting at Minehead in Somerset, traversing North Devon, the rugged Cornwall Coastline and the sandy coves of South Devon, finally finishing at Poole Harbour in Dorset over 1000km later.
If you walked the whole Path you would ascend the equivalent of climbing Everest four times, it is a formidable challenge. For this reason, most walkers choose to walk the Path in sections.
The Ocean Coast: Hiking, Surfing, Swimming and Chilling in North Cornwall
Some choose to start in the surfing town of Newquay, from which you can explore the wild north Atlantic coastline. This area is famous for its surfing and its fish and chips, as well as the beautiful sections of the SWCP, connecting bustling towns to remote coves and fishing villages.
Along the North Cornwall section of the Path there is plenty of opportunities to dip your toe into some water sports as well, why not try stand up paddleboarding, surfing and bodyboarding or even all three. You can bring in the evening with delicious seafood and beautiful sunsets at one of the many excellent eateries and pubs in this part of the world.
The Serpentine Coast: Rambling Around Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula
You could head further south, to the southern-most point on the British Mainland, Lizard Point and explore the serpentine coast. This is an area filled with seabirds, beautiful coves and unusual geology – it certainly feels like a place unlike anywhere else.
There is of course Lizard Point itself to see, but there are also plenty of less famous coves and crags to explore which you’ll only find by walking the Path. This is a hilly, wind-battered part of the world. It feels wild and remote, which is why the amazing food and drink spots to be found feel that much more rewarding.
