beach walks that are likely to take place when tides are rising, and more particularly when spring tides are forecast. It’s best to avoid beach walks altogether when high tides are forecast to coincide with strong onshore gales. In recent winters, several stretches of the South West Coast Path were damaged, requiring substantial repairs during 2014 and 2015.
Waymarking and paths
The South West Coast Path is waymarked, but route-finding is still important
The South West Coast Path is a National Trail, so it’s well signposted and waymarked from start to finish. Signposts may simply state ‘Coast Path’, or waymark posts may carry nothing more than a direction arrow and an ‘acorn’ symbol. Some signposts will give destinations further along the trail, and may also indicate the distances to those places. In urban areas, where the route may turn left and right in quick succession through busy streets, there might be no signposts, or they may be lost among other distracting signs and notices. In some cases, metal ‘acorn’ discs might be set into the pavement, or ‘acorn’ stickers might be applied to lamp posts. It’s often the case that route-finding is more difficult in urban areas than it is on a remote stretch of coast!
The South West Coast Path is exceptionally well maintained, but a coastal trail of this length will always require attention somewhere along its course. In some cases, stretches that get overgrown will be cut back once or twice a year. Damage to signposts, stiles and footbridges won’t be attended to until someone reports them. If a problem is spotted, report it using the online facility on the South West Coast Path website (www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk), and in the author’s experience, they’ll probably respond within two days and tell you they fixed a minor problem!
Damage to the path itself may result in diversions, if it becomes dangerous to continue. Serious problems take longer to fix. Any detours put in place should be clearly marked, and information should be available on the website. Problems that can’t be fixed will result in permanent re-alignment of the route, so beware if using an old map or guidebook.
Rescue services
Rescue services can be alerted by dialling 999 (or the European emergency number 112) from any telephone. On some popular beaches there may be a phone dedicated as an emergency line. The coastguard service is able to coordinate assistance from the police, ambulance, fire service and lifeboat as necessary. You cannot call for a helicopter, but based on the information you provide, one of the emergency services may request a helicopter to assist. Always give as much information as possible, especially as to the location and nature of an accident, then await further instructions.
Walkers don’t often suffer accidents on the Coast Path, but it makes sense to walk with care near cliff edges and always be on the lookout for unstable edges, landslips and rockfalls. Tread carefully on steep and uneven paths. Always check the weather forecast and be aware that heavy rain or strong winds can make walking difficult or even dangerous.
Walkers who want to go swimming should read the warning notices posted at the most popular beaches, and check local conditions with lifeguards if they are present. In out-of-the-way places, don’t go swimming without a good understanding of the nature of the sea.
Nare Head, seen in the distance from a point before Pendower Beach (Stage 25)
Safety on the Coast Path
As well as following the Countryside Code, when you are walking the South West Coast Path, always remember to follow the advice provided on the official South West Coast Path website.
Staying safe is your own responsibility – look after yourself and other members of your group
Let someone know where you’re going and what time you’re likely to be back – mobile phone reception is patchy on the coast.
Take something to eat and drink.
Protect yourself from the sun – sea breezes can hide its strength.
Informal paths leading to beaches can be dangerous and are best avoided.
If you’re crossing a beach, make sure you know the tide times so you won’t be cut off.
Keep to the path and stay away from cliff edges – follow advisory signs and waymarks
Keep back from cliff edges – a slip or trip could be fatal.
Remember that some cliffs overhang or are unstable.
Take special care of children and dogs – look after them at all times
Keep your dog under close control.
Children and dogs may not see potential dangers – such as cliff edges – especially if they’re excited.
Do not disturb farm animals or wildlife – walk around cattle and not between them, especially if they have calves.
Cattle may react aggressively to dogs – if this happens, let your dog off the lead.
Dress sensibly for the terrain and weather – wear suitable clothing and footwear and be ready for possible changes in the weather
Check the weather forecast before you set out.
On the coast, mist, fog and high winds are more likely and can be especially dangerous.
Wear suitable footwear.
Take waterproofs and extra clothing, especially in cold weather.
Stay within your fitness level – some sections of the Coast Path can be strenuous and/or remote
Plan a walk that suits your fitness level.
Find out about the section you plan to walk.
Turn back if the walk is too strenuous for anyone in your group.
Be aware that the surface of the Coast Path varies and will generally be more natural and more uneven away from car parks, towns and villages.
Remember that in remote areas or at quiet times you may not see another person for some time if you are in difficulties.
In an emergency, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard
Learn to read a map to be able to accurately report your position – visit www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk
The ‘Rugged Alternative Coast Path’ runs closer to the sea than the main route (Stage 1)
South West Coast Path Challenge
A major fundraising event is organised each October along the Coast Path. The aim is to get as many walkers as possible, of all ages and ability, to choose and walk a stretch of
