The King Charles III England Coast Path is set to become the longest managed coastal trail in the world — a continuous journey around England’s entire shoreline. With more than 2,700 miles of cliffs, beaches, estuaries, dunes, and seaside towns, it offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes. But with so many regions to choose from, the real challenge isn’t the walking. It’s deciding which stretch is right for you.
Every section has its own character. Some are wild and dramatic, others gentle and accessible. Some offer solitude, others bustle with seaside life. This guide helps you match your walking style, fitness level, and scenery preferences to the region that will give you the most rewarding experience.
Cornwall — For walkers who want drama and don’t mind effort
Cornwall is the headline act of the English coast. Expect rugged cliffs, turquoise coves, and a constant up‑and‑down rhythm that makes every mile feel earned. It’s demanding, but the scenery is unforgettable.
- Difficulty: Hard
- Scenery: World‑class cliffs and coves
- Best For: Adventurous walkers who want big views and don’t mind steep climbs
Devon — For variety and classic coastal charm
Devon offers a little bit of everything: red sandstone cliffs, chalk headlands, fishing villages, wooded valleys, and rolling farmland. It’s a great choice if you want a changing landscape and plenty of places to stop for food or rest.
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard
- Scenery: Diverse and colourful
- Best For: Walkers who enjoy variety and well‑supported routes
Dorset (Jurassic Coast) — For iconic, bucket‑list landscapes
The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. With Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and sweeping chalk cliffs, it’s one of the most recognisable coastlines in Britain. The walking can be steep, but the logistics are easy.
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard
- Scenery: Iconic and spectacular
- Best For: Walkers who want dramatic scenery with straightforward planning
Northumberland — For solitude, castles, and wide horizons
Northumberland offers long, quiet beaches, gentle dunes, and a sense of space that’s hard to find elsewhere. With castles rising above the shoreline, it’s a dream for history lovers and those who prefer peaceful walking.
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
- Scenery: Expansive and historic
- Best For: Walkers seeking solitude and gentle terrain
Cumbria — For atmospheric, underrated coastline
Cumbria’s coast is often overshadowed by the Lake District, but it has its own quiet beauty. Estuaries, dunes, big skies, and industrial heritage create a landscape that feels raw and real. With 3.5‑star scenery, it’s a rewarding choice for walkers who enjoy atmosphere over drama.
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
- Scenery: Varied and atmospheric
- Best For: Walkers who enjoy quieter, less touristy landscapes
Merseyside — For easy, accessible coastal days
Merseyside offers flat promenades, dunes, beaches, and the striking sculptures of Antony Gormley’s Another Place. Excellent public transport makes it ideal for flexible or shorter walking days.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Scenery: Beaches, dunes, and art installations
- Best For: New walkers or anyone wanting simple, accessible routes
Lancashire — For low‑stress walking with great transport
Lancashire’s coastline is friendly, flat, and easy to navigate. Expect estuary views, Victorian nostalgia, nature reserves, dunes, and big sunsets. It’s not wild like Cornwall, but it’s relaxing and ideal for steady, uncomplicated mileage.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Scenery: Estuaries, dunes, and wide horizons
- Best For: Walkers who want minimal planning and maximum ease
So… which region suits you best
- Love drama and don’t mind effort? Cornwall
- Want variety and classic coastline? Devon
- Want iconic scenery and challenge? Dorset
- Want peace, history and gentle terrain? Northumberland
- Want atmosphere without crowds? Cumbria
- Want Victorian nostalgia and maximum ease? Lancashire