Lots of our guests enjoy walking part of the South West Coast Path.
That’s no surprise, as it passes within a mile of our self-catering cottages, and it’s a great way to enjoy the gorgeous Dorset coast.
What is the South West Coast Path?
The path is the UK’s longest National Trail. It stretches from Poole, out to the east of us, and goes all the way around the tip of Cornwall to end at Minehead.
Or it goes the other way around, if you prefer. It’s 630 miles of some of England’s finest seaside scenery, in one of the sunniest parts of the country.
It’s a footpath that anyone can walk on. It’s open 24/7 and there’s no charge to use it.
The path is also an adventure, a challenge and an exploration. It’s a great way to discover parts of the coast you don’t know about, and to get lungfuls of fresh air as you exercise.
The path is well marked with lots of signposts.
How long does it take to walk the entire South West Coast Path?
Some people take on the entire path from start to finish, but that’s a serious commitment of time and energy. The fastest it’s been done is around 10 days. A keen walker might do it in about 30-40 days.
The South West Coast Path Association, who maintain it, have produced a 52-stage guide to the journey. Many people take on one stage as a day’s walk. They might do a stage or two every few weeks, challenging themselves to complete the entire path in a year or two.
How easy is it to walk the South West Coast Path?
Every section of the path is graded into one of four categories:
- Easy
- Moderate
- Strenuous
- Severe
This grading helps you to decide which sections of the path you want to take on, depending on the level of challenge you’re up for.
Much of the path near us is relatively easy going. However, it gets more challenging when you head east towards Lulworth – there are some very steep up and down sections.
The South West Coast Path Association is keen that everyone should be able to enjoy at least part of the path. They’ve produced guides to help people with wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs.
How does coastal erosion affect the South West Coast Path?
Erosion is a big challenge for those looking after the path. The sea is continually nibbling away at the coast, causing cliffs to fall from time to time.
While the path keeps a respectful distance from cliff edges, it does need to be moved when there’s been a fall.
Route changes may be temporary or permanent. Sometimes a section is closed for a short time, to allow for repairs to be made.
The changes are all shown on the South West Coast Path website. It’s best to check this before setting out.
What preparation is needed before walking on the South West Coast Path?
If you’re planning on taking a short stroll along part of the path, there’s little you need to do in order to prepare.
It’s always wise to check the path website to ensure that a particular section is open, or if there are any warnings or restrictions in place.
You should also check the weather forecast before setting out. The weather in coastal areas can change rapidly and is sometimes surprising. A sea fret can come in unexpectedly, reducing visibility and cooling the temperatures, even when the weather is pleasant relatively close by.
In most areas the path is unpaved, so it makes sense to choose sensible footwear. If there’s been recent rain, the path could be muddy in places.
What to look out for on the South West Coast Path?
There’s no shortage of things to see, even on a short walk.
The scenery is, of course, spectacular along most of the route. Sometimes you’ll be walking close to the sea, beside a beach. Other times you’ll be high above, on a clifftop. The section near us has both – as you pass Ringstead Bay and climb up to the White Nothe.
The path is rich in wildlife. Walkers can encounter a rich variety of birds, animals, insects and plants. If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, take a guide book or install an app on your phone. Knowing what you’re seeing will make it much more interesting.
There’s also loads of history along the South West Coast Path. In our area there are castles (such as on Portland or in Weymouth) and relics from the Second World War (pillboxes and observation points). There are also old houses, lighthouses, churches and the remains of long-abandoned settlements.
The path takes you through many different landscapes, meaning you’ll also see many different types of geology. The route includes the massive rock arch of Durdle Door, the beauty of Lulworth Cove and the drama of Portland Bill. There’s also the amazing Chesil Beach – and all this is close to us. Every section of the path has its own wonders to share.
The South West Coast Path can be an amazing source of education about history, geology and the natural world.
Where to get food, drink and somewhere to stay on the South West Coast Path?
There’s no shortage of pubs, cafes, kiosks and more along the route, where you can get refreshments. For staying overnight there’s a wealth of B&Bs, hotels and self-catering cottages.
If you prefer to camp, there are lots of sites near to the path. Wild camping is not encouraged. While anyone is permitted to walk along the path, camping requires specific permission from landowners.
Upton Grange and the South West Coast Path
We’re close to the Ferrybridge to Lulworth section of the path. It’s a stretch with loads of variety that includes:
- The Rodwell Trail, following the route of an old railway line
- Nothe Fort
- Weymouth seafront
- Bowleaze Cove
- White Nothe
- Durdle Door
Some sections, such as the Rodwell Trail and Weymouth seafront, are level and paved. Others, particularly the stretch from White Nothe to Lulworth, is very up and down.
Whichever section of the South West Coast Path you walk, we know you’ll enjoy it.