5 Royally Worthy Adventures Along the King’s Coastal Path
As part of the celebrations for the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, the England Coast Path will be renamed to ‘King Charles III England Coast Path’ on 10 May 2023. We have put together a few adventures along the coast with a royal twist waiting to be discovered this summer. Walk from dramatic cliffsides and smooth sandy beaches to historic piers and castles surrounded by subtropical self-contained ecosystems. Unearth centuries old ghosts’ stories or spend a peaceful night’s slumber glamping in castle gardens. Choose your path and start an unforgettable journey along England’s coast today.
North East - Amble to Bamburgh
One of the only paths currently open to the public on the North East coast is between Amble and Bamburgh. Over a stretch of 47 km/ 29 miles along Northumberland’s coastline, you’ll discover England’s natural beauty through coastal cliffs, rocky bluffs, and white sandy beaches. Stroll over to Bamburgh beach for a chance to surf along Northumberland’s most picturesque breaks, suitable for beginner and advanced surfers. Whether you start or end at Bamburgh, there are too many reasons not to visit Bamburgh Castle (home to the royal family between the 12th – 15th centuries.)
The enormous compound is located just off the coast near Bamburgh beach, a perfect pit stop for impromptu surf sessions. The castle features an immersive and interactive experience bringing its history to life. Explore the film set of the Netflix hit, ‘The Last Kingdom’ and get a backstage look at the costumes and props used during filming or take a grand tour of the grounds to discover 3000 years of history. Make the journey a long-weekend and stay at one of the many accommodations offered on the castle grounds including seaside cottages, the clock tower and even cottages located in the heart of Bamburgh.
North West - Whitehaven to Silecroft
Stretching down the North Western coast, this walk measures at a brisk 54.9 km/ 32 miles and features views of the Lake District National Park, Braystone’s beach huts, and sometimes parallels the picturesque Cumbrian Coastal Railway. Along the path, inland towards Muncaster and Ravenglass sits the historically haunted Muncaster Castle.
Muncaster Castle is a much-loved family home sitting on 77 acres of flourishing gardens and woodlands. Tour inside the castle for a closer look at the incredible architecture and artefacts of the late 17th century compound, and learn the story behind the ghost that wanders the castle grounds at night. End the day with a stay at one of the castle’s many accommodation choices, from 4-star hotels and cosy cottages to glamping in the gardens of the castle grounds.
East - Maldon to Salcott
Beginning in Salcott (named after its huts which stored the area’s salt harvested since the Iron Age) and ending in Maldon (known for showcasing England’s beautiful Blackwater Estuary and Nature Conservation), the trail runs along the East coast totalling 42 km/ 26 miles. It loosely follows the northern bank of River Blackwater allowing visitors the opportunity to spot diverse sea-life and salt marshes, along with easy access to Northey and Osea island. Just a short journey from the coast lies an incredible construction with materials from the Roman era-Colchester Castle.
Known as the largest Norman Keep in Europe, the castle offers visitors access to interactive exhibits, a 13th century prison, Roman Vaults and so much more. The castle proudly houses artefacts dating as far back as the Roman-era, and offers tours deep below in the haunted vaults, and high above for incredible rooftop views. End the day just down the coast, with a stay on the calm and idyllic Osea Island, or take a chance with the ghosts and experience a night in Colchester Castle’s centuries old prison.
South East - Folkstone to Ramsgate
Along the South East coast sits the Folkstone to Ramsgate path stretching 59 km/ 37 miles. Featuring incredible views of the White Cliffs, diverse wildlife and sites like the historic Cinque Port of Sandwich and St. Martin’s Battery. Residing on the path, near historic ports and home to views of France just across the channel, sits Dover Castle.
Visit the castle to uncover stories about its Roman and Saxon history, or the medieval court of Henry II. Get exclusive views from above in the Great Tower or go underground to discover the secret tunnels used during wartime. Stay overnight for a chance to sleep in Peverell’s Tower, with a private rooftop terrace showcasing amazing views across the channel. Guests will receive a luxury hamper and private access to the castle after it’s closed.
South West - Brean to Minehead
Graded as an easy trail, Brean to Minehead stretches an astonishing 93 km/ 58 miles along the South West coast and is clocked as a four-day adventure. Walk the sandy beaches of Berrow and Burnham-on-sea, or experience the cliff formations from Lilstock to Blue Anchor. Situated on the edge of a national nature reserve sits Dunster Castle.
Dunster castle is surrounded by subtropical gardens and features a working watermill. Tour inside for a closer look into the castle’s 1000-year-old history or discover the microclimate inside the River Garden keeping the area green all year round. End the day with a relaxing slumber at Dunster Castle Hotel and wake up with a quintessential English breakfast to jumpstart your next day of royal adventures along the coast.
-ENDS-
For the most up to date guide or details of what’s new in Britain check out the VisitBritain Media Centre
Supporting assets can be found in this folder on the VisitBritain image library. Please register to get access.
For further information contact the Visit Britain press team at pressandpr@visitbritain.org