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Exmoor KCIII England Coast Path Improvements Open

Last week was a landmark occasion with the celebratory opening of 6x route change improvements to the South West Coast Path along the 35 mile Exmoor section. 

All maps and details of the Exmoor route improvements can be seen HERE

Below is an example of the new route around Hurlestone Point.

These improvements have been created as part of the King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIII ECP) establishment works. The KCIII ECP, was originally proposed in 2007, when only around half the coast of England was accessible. Once complete, the KCIII ECP will provide access to 2,700 miles of coastal footpath, becoming the longest National Trail in England. 

We worked together with Exmoor National Park and Natural England to put forward these suggested route improvements that brings the Trail more seaward and enhances the experience of walking this spectacular coastal landscape. The South West Coast Path remains the National Trail starting in Minehead, Somerset, and finishing in Poole, Dorset, and will become part of the KCIII ECP in the South West. 

 

The South West Coast Path Trail Partnership will continue to oversee the management, maintenance, improvement and promotion of the South West Coast Path & KCIII ECP National Trail in the South West. The Trails Partnership works together for the benefit of the public and to champion the protection, enhancement and access to the landscape, biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Coast Path corridor. 

With more sections of the KCIII ECP opening in the South West over the coming months we are looking forward to the improvements this will bring to the SWCP route. 

Should you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected].

 

FAQ – we will add to these questions, please check back periodically. 

Once the KCIII ECP is complete, will the South West Coast Path still exist?

Yes, the South West Coast Path will remain a National Trail – the original Coast Path in England, becoming part of the KCIII ECP in the South West.

Will the KCIII ECP follow the route of the South West Coast Path in the SW?

For the most, it will follow the route of the SWCP. However, there will be some places where the KCIII ECP will deviate from the SWCP route. This will be clearly signposted on the route, and in our Official Guide to the SWCP. 

How long will the KCIII ECP National Trail be?

When complete, the Trail will be 2,700 miles, making it the longest National Trail in England, and the longest managed and signed coastal trail in the UK.

When will the KCIII ECP be completed?

DEFRA state the trail is due to be fully walkable by the end of 2024 but establishment works will be ongoing and due for completion in 2025/ 26. The Trail will then need to be officially designated before it is declared a complete National Trail. There is no date set for official designation. 

All images by Shaun Davey

Published on: July 24, 2024