Top walking paths in South of England

From a plethora of National Landscapes and stunning National Parks to rocky coastlines and rolling green hills, the south of England offers a range of self-guided holidays to suit every state.

Add some sites of Special Scientific Interest, rare wildlife and some incredible cultural, historical and industrial attractions and you will come across iconic walking routes, each with their own unique offerings. Find out more by choosing from the top ten listed below.

South West Coast Path

•  Length: 630 miles
•  Difficulty: Easy to demanding
•  Duration: 7-8 weeks
•  Best months: March-September 

The South West Coast Path is the longest way-marked long-distance National Trail that stretches for 1008 km across England and Wales and involves walking seven sections of variable length.

The walk is perhaps the UK's ultimate challenge for the long-distance hiker which can be gauged by the  over 115,000 feet of total ascent and descent, which is equivalent to climbing Mount Everest four times.

From Minehead(Somerset), the walk runs along the coast of Exmoor, continuing to follow the coastline of Cornwall up to the mouth of River Tamar. After running along the South coast of Devon it follows the Dorset coastline before ending at Poole Harbour.

Pro tip -  For the best self guided walking holidays in the UK, pick experts like Walk With Williams. 

The Cotswold Way

•       Length: 102 miles
•       Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
•       Duration: 8 days
•       Best months: April-October 

Designated a National Trail in 2007, the Cotswold Way runs from Chipping Campden(Gloucestershire) to Bath(Somerset) and almost the entire route passes through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty while traversing the Seven Vales and picturesque towns and villages.

There is a selection of circular trails to choose from that passes through extraordinary scenery and quaint settlements that has made Cotswolds such a great place to discover on foot.

 Icknield Way Path

•     Length: 110 miles
•     Duration: 9 days 
•     Difficulty: Easy
•     Best months: April-October 

Often said to be the oldest road in Britain, the Icknield Way Path runs from Ivinghoe Beacon to Knettishall Heath and is a part of the Greater Ridgeway route which links Dorset to The Wash. Iron Age hillforts and Neolithic barrows line the route, reminding hikers of the ancient heritage of this region.

The highest ascent is just 614 feet near Chiltern Hills, but apart from this up and down, the path is level and easy going. The route is also signposted with the Icknield Way Path axe symbol.
 

 The Jurassic Coast

•       Length: 95 miles
•       Difficulty: Easy to challenging 
•       Duration: 9 days 
•       Best months: April-October 

The Jurassic Coast Path offers perfect walking through England’s only Natural Heritage site, starting at Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset along the country’s Jurassic Coast. You will walk along footpaths and trails with some steep sections where you can expect to be rewarded with some stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Step back in time to when dinosaurs ruled the earth and where their fossil remains can still be seen on the crumbling cliffs of this fascinating stretch of coastline. View the most famous geological features of England at Chesil Beach and the Isle of Portland displaying 185 million years of the Earth’s history.

Beesands to Hallsands

• Length: 4 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best months: March–October

This short coastal walk in South Devon links the peaceful village of Beesands with the historic ruins of Hallsands, a fishing village washed away by the sea in 1917. Though compact, the route is packed with drama and you can expect sweeping views of Start Bay along with rugged cliffs, and the haunting story of Hallsands’ fall to the waves.

It’s a gentle walk ideal for a sunny afternoon, with the bonus of fresh seafood from the local pub in Beesands to start or end your journey.

Bantham to Thurlestone Walk

• Length: 6 km (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Best months: April–October

Looking for a circular walk that offers South Devon’s finest coastal scenery? Starting at Bantham Beach, known for its surf and views of Burgh Island, the trail hugs the shoreline past dunes and rocky coves toward the charming village of Thurlestone. This is a great walking trail in South Devon for those who prefer easy-to-walk paths combined with scenic views.

Along the way, admire the iconic Thurlestone Rock at a distance, spot various seabirds, and enjoy golden sand beaches ideal for rest stops. It's a gentle adventure with big views ideal for families or casual walkers.

Dartmouth Mayflower Heritage Trail

• Length: 3.5 km (circular)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best months: Year-round

If you are someone who loves history, Dartmouth Mayflower Heritage Trail is a great choice especially when you are in South Devon. This path allows you to step back in time and focus on the historic town of Dartmouth which played a key role in the Mayflower voyage of 1620.

The walk takes you past timber-framed buildings, cobbled lanes, and stunning waterfront views, with signposted stops that tell the story of the Pilgrims' stay here. Even if you are not much into history this gentle, informative trail is ideal for families and solo walkers. offering plenty of charm and a great excuse to linger in Dartmouth’s cafés and galleries.

Wembury to Plymouth Walk

• Length: 9 km
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Best months: April–September

This picturesque path links the quaint village of Wembury with the vibrant city of Plymouth, following the South West Coast Path. The path meanders along cliffs with stunning views over the English Channel, passing Wembury Beach (a great spot for rockpooling).

Along the way, walkers can catch glimpses of historic Plymouth Hoe and the imposing Smeaton’s Tower. It's the perfect mix of nature and culture, with plenty of spots to stop for a break and take in the views.

Teignmouth to Dawlish Walk

• Length: 5 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best months: April–October

If you are looking for a lovely coastal path that follows the South West Coast Path, this one follows it from Teignmouth and Dawlish. As you walk this path you enjoy dramatic cliffside views of the English Channel.

The route passes along sandy beaches, rocky coves, and charming seaside towns. Being an easy path, this one is perfect for families looking for a relaxed, easy stroll with plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the coastal scenery.

For more information on walks in South Devon please visit www.visitsouthdevon.co.uk