South West Coast Path: Minehead to County Gate

Route Description for South West Coast Path: Minehead to County Gate

Whether you are looking to set out on the grand 1,013.9 km adventure that is the South West Coast Path or are simply after a long-distance day-walk along the coast, the South West Coast Path: Minehead to County Gate is a great place to begin your journey. This is a fairly long walk with a good amount of elevation gain, so be sure to come prepared with sturdy walking boots and plenty of supplies, such as water, snacks, and extra clothing to protect yourself from the inclement weather along the coast.

Setting out from the official trailhead of the much longer South West Coast Path, you will make your way to the northwest to meet up with the coast and follow the water’s edge past the Minehead Harbour. From here, you will continue along the shoreline as it bends to the west, where you will climb up the steep hillside and pass through a peaceful stretch of forest.

Continuing to the west, you will traverse the undulating landscape of Exmoor National Park and descend Bossington Hill to pass by the beach and marshy landscape surrounding the village of the same name, as well as the village of Porlock. From here, you will follow along the coastline to the west and climb back up the forested hillside, enjoying the shady tree cover and intermittent views of the Bristol Channel, before reaching the end point of the route in County Gate.