Exploring History and Wildlife on the UK’s Storied Coastal Paths

By Ivan PetrenkoJun 5, 2024 23:00 PMNews
Share:
North Wales at sunset.
North Wales at sunset. Source: unsplash

The UK's coastline offers some of the most breathtaking walking trails, from jagged cliffs and sandy coves to quaint fishing villages. With over 11,000 miles of coastline, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and dinosaur fossil locations, these trails provide a glimpse into the island nation's rich history and diverse wildlife. Here are five of the best coastal paths as recommended by walking experts HF Holidays.

The Meirionnydd Coast in North Wales features a stunning blend of broad, sandy beaches and the mountainous backdrop of Eryri National Park (formerly Snowdonia). The journey starts at Penrhyndeudraeth and trails south towards the Dyfi Valley, passing through sand dunes, fishing villages, and estuarine habitats. A highlight is Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitors a chance to explore its medieval fortifications.

The Orkney and Shetland islands in Scotland offer an unparalleled experience of wildlife, maritime heritage, and unique culture. The Shetland site of Jarlshof showcases Bronze and Stone Age settlements, Norse longhouses, and medieval smallholdings, while Orkney is home to the UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Walkers can enjoy the clifftop path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay, overlooking the RSPB Marwick Head Nature Reserve.

North Cornwall's coastal paths in Southwest England provide a historical journey through the county’s mining heritage. Starting at Treyarnon Bay and ending at Cape Cornwall, this trail features quiet coves, fishing villages, and rare coastal habitats. Highlights include the tin mines of Geevor and Botallack, with opportunities to spot whales in the waters.

The South West Coastal Path, the UK's longest national trail, stretches through Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. This eight-day adventure begins in Minehead, Somerset, and ends at Croyde Bay, Devon. Key sites include Porlock Weir, Lynton and Lynmouth, and the dramatic Valley of the Rocks.

Finally, the Isles of Scilly offer a unique island-hopping experience with their white-powder-sand beaches and sparkling waters. This seven-day adventure covers peaceful bays, archaeological ruins, and wild landscapes. Tresco's Abbey Garden and Valhalla museum are must-visit attractions.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Malaysia Airlines aircraft being loaded at the airport gate

Malaysia Airlines Reinstates Brisbane Route with Expanded Regional Access

Apr 18, 2025 23:21 PM
Aerial view of a beach on Seychelles, with turquoise waves and granite rock formations

Seychelles Launches Marine Programme for Environmentally Minded Travellers

Apr 18, 2025 21:34 PM

Maintenance Work to Impact Summer Departures at Hannover Airport

Apr 18, 2025 19:48 PM

Severe Rail Disruptions Ahead of Marathon and FA Cup

Apr 18, 2025 17:23 PM
Singapore Airlines Airbus A380 aircraft in mid-flight against a grey sky

Asia Travel Made Easier with New Airline Partnership

Apr 18, 2025 15:35 PM
Crowne Plaza hotel building under clear sky

Business Travel Gets Personal: New Hotel Perk Encourages Guests to Bring a Companion

Apr 17, 2025 23:31 PM
Emirates Airbus A380 taking off from the runway during daytime

Easter Flights Bring Seasonal Comforts for Travelers

Apr 17, 2025 20:25 PM
Two people walking with an umbrella during heavy rain on a flooded street

Weekend Weather Threatens Travel Across South West England

Apr 17, 2025 18:47 PM
Wizz Air aircraft in flight against cloudy sky

Wizz Air Expands Naples Routes with New Travel Destinations

Apr 17, 2025 16:33 PM

Maui faces water shortage amid tourist comfort

Apr 16, 2025 22:39 PM

New Direct Flight Simplifies Travel Between Munich and Dubai

Apr 16, 2025 20:42 PM
Interior view of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 with immigration area and directional signs

Changi Lounges to Expand Space and Comfort Over Two Years

Apr 16, 2025 18:24 PM
Rail workers operating heavy machinery to replace tracks during infrastructure upgrade

Train Delays Expected on Pisa to Rome Line This Summer

Apr 16, 2025 16:37 PM
Traveler with suitcase watching airplane take off at airport terminal

Antalya Airport Upgrade Enhances Travel Experience

Apr 15, 2025 16:46 PM
Dynjandi waterfall cascading down a rocky mountain in Westfjords, Iceland

Iceland’s Expanding Appeal for Nature-Loving Travellers

Apr 15, 2025 14:53 PM

Flexible Antalya Trips Now Easier from Graz

Apr 15, 2025 12:37 PM

UK Rain Warning Triggers Travel Caution for Midweek Journeys

Apr 15, 2025 10:44 AM
Ryanair plane landing at airport

Hidden Fees and Access Problems Reported on eDreams

Apr 15, 2025 08:21 AM
Passengers seated inside a city bus

Electric Buses Make Exploring Exeter Smoother for Visitors

Apr 15, 2025 06:39 AM
Munich Airport's central plaza with glass roof and modern architecture

New Munich Route Eases Access to Canadian Rockies

Apr 14, 2025 23:56 PM
Rail workers conducting track maintenance during daytime engineering works

Easter Rail Closures to Impact UK Holiday Travel

Apr 14, 2025 21:42 PM
Ryanair airplane in mid-flight against a blue sky

Expedia Adds Direct Ryanair Bookings Amid Shift in Airline Strategy

Apr 14, 2025 19:38 PM

Traveler Left Without Wheelchair After Hawaii Flight

Apr 13, 2025 21:41 PM

Winter Closure of Burgas Airport Will Impact Air Travel

Apr 13, 2025 19:34 PM
View of an empty airplane aisle from a low angle, showing rows of seats and overhead bins

Avelo Faces Backlash Over Deportation Flight Deal

Apr 12, 2025 22:49 PM
Airplane at airport gate during sunrise with ground crew preparing for departure

Quick Getaways Changing the Way Europe Travels

Apr 12, 2025 19:51 PM