The entire English coastline will become accessible for the first time when the England Coast Path National Trail is completed this year; offering hikers, campers, swimmers, and wildlife lovers access to the world’s longest walking route.
At 2800 miles/4500kms long, the England Coast Path is the world’s longest continuous path, connecting the entire English coastline through a network of public trails. This initiative, which is the result of a campaign that was first announced in 2010, was spearheaded by Natural England and local walking charities. They worked tirelessly alongside the government and local landowners to open up the coastline.
Moreover, the path not only connects and improves existing routes with signposted trails that are safe from tides and difficult terrain, but it also opens new routes and secures access rights to coastal land such as beaches, dunes, and cliffs. As a result, there are plenty of opportunities for people to enjoy the simple pleasures of being by the English seaside.
Recent figures released from Natural England reveal that England’s coastal paths are hugely popular, with 29.1 million walking trips made over a six-month period in 2019. This figure is expected to grow significantly once the path is complete.
Furthermore, Natural England’s Chair, Tony Juniper, stated, “Our flagship England Coast Path is taking people through some of the finest and most important landscapes in England, opening up historic landmarks, natural wonders, and breathtaking scenery. Consequently, this enables more visitors to experience, recognize, and value the benefits of our environment.”
Therefore, 2021 will be the ‘Year of the English Coast’ with a packed programme of events lined up. People can participate in beach clean-ups, seafood feasts, art trail walks, and there will be a notable emphasis on sustainability.
The England Coast Path is one of the reasons why GoTravelDaily named England as one of the top countries to visit in 2020 in the ‘Best in Travel’ list. From the surf-ready beaches of the Southwest to the ‘creative coast’ of the Southeast, which is home to world-class art galleries and museums, including the Turner Contemporary in Margate, the path now makes it easier to explore all sorts of wonderful attractions.
