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Clifftops, Moorland Valleys, and the Start of England’s Longest National Trail
A rugged and spectacular beginning to the South West Coast Path through Somerset and Devon.
The South West Coast Path begins in Minehead, Somerset, at the edge of Exmoor National Park and runs westward into Devon’s North Coast. This first 50 miles of the National Trail is a dramatic introduction to walking holidays and outdoor adventures in South West England. Expect plunging cliffs, wooded combes, and high moorland headlands with views across the Bristol Channel to Wales.
Walking here means tackling some of the highest sea cliffs in England — including Great Hangman at 318m — while dipping into secluded valleys, small harbours, and timeless fishing villages. The trail crosses both Exmoor National Park and the North Devon Coast National Landscape, combining wild natural beauty with cultural heritage and welcoming local stays.
Trail Overview
- Distance: Approx. 50 miles (80 km)
- Start point: Minehead, Somerset
- End point: Combe Martin, Devon
- Time required: 4–6 days (for the section)
- Waymarking: Acorn symbol (National Trail)
- Terrain: Clifftop paths, moorland ridges, wooded valleys, fishing harbours
- Accessibility: Steep climbs and descents; some easier valley sections
Explore the Route
Minehead to Porlock
The official start of the South West Coast Path, with a climb out of Minehead into Exmoor’s wooded slopes and views across the Bristol Channel. Porlock offers a mix of harbour heritage and rural charm.
Porlock to Lynmouth
One of the most iconic stretches, passing Culbone Church (England’s smallest parish church) and the steep coast around Foreland Point. The descent into Lynmouth reveals a village rich in maritime history.
Lynmouth to Combe Martin
Perhaps the most dramatic part of Exmoor’s coast, climbing to Great Hangman — the highest sea cliff in England — before dropping into the sheltered harbour of Combe Martin, marking the trail’s entry into North Devon Coast National Landscape.
Stay and Explore
This section of the South West Coast Path is ideal for self-guided walking holidays, with local stays ranging from cosy Exmoor inns to coastal cottages and boutique B&Bs.
- Somerset stays: Traditional pubs and guesthouses in Minehead and Porlock.
- Exmoor options: Farm stays, moorland hotels, and rural retreats near Lynmouth.
- Devon coast: Beachside cottages and family-run B&Bs in Combe Martin.
Local food — from Exmoor lamb to Devon crab — adds to the experience, while nearby attractions include the cliff railway at Lynton & Lynmouth, Exmoor’s wild ponies, and wooded walks in the Heddon Valley.
Adventure Highlights
- Start of the South West Coast Path at Minehead
- Exmoor National Park’s coastal cliffs and moorland ridges
- Great Hangman: England’s highest sea cliff
- Lynton & Lynmouth, linked by the cliff railway
- North Devon Coast National Landscape with dramatic headlands
- Wildlife: Exmoor ponies, red deer, seabirds, and dolphins
- A mix of wild walking and welcoming villages
