South West Coast Path (Somerset & Exmoor Section)

Clifftops, moorland valleys, and the first miles of England's longest coastal route.

The Exmoor section of the South West Coast Path runs from Minehead in Somerset to Combe Martin in North Devon, forming the opening stages of England's longest National Trail. Following the coastline of Exmoor National Park, the route links high cliffs, wooded valleys, moorland headlands, and historic coastal settlements through a journey shaped by elevation, exposure, and the meeting of upland and sea.

As a self-guided journey, the route connects places such as Minehead, Porlock Weir, Lynmouth, Lynton, and Combe Martin while passing through some of the highest sea cliffs in England. Steep coastal paths, wooded combes, open moorland, and narrow river valleys create a route defined by constant change in terrain and spectacular views across the Bristol Channel.

The character of the route changes steadily as it moves west. The wooded slopes above Minehead quickly give way to exposed clifftops and open moorland, where heather-covered hills fall sharply towards the sea. Deep valleys cut through the coastline, creating a demanding rhythm of climbs and descents, while sheltered harbours and small coastal settlements provide welcome pauses between longer stretches of remote walking.

Unlike the gentler coastal sections further south, this stretch feels rugged and uncompromising. Exmoor's combination of upland landscape and dramatic coastline creates a distinctive walking experience where weather, terrain, and distance shape each day on the trail.

With National Trail waymarking, regular accommodation options, and some of England's most dramatic coastal scenery, the Exmoor section offers a memorable introduction to the South West Coast Path. The route combines wild landscapes, maritime heritage, and sustained coastal walking into one of the finest sections of the entire trail.

Overview

Distance 50 miles / 80 km

Duration 4–6 days

Difficulty Challenging

Start Minehead, Somerset

Finish Combe Martin, Devon

Terrain Steep clifftop paths, moorland ridges, wooded valleys, coastal descents, and small harbour towns

Waymarking National Trail acorn symbols throughout