Walk - Minehead to Porlock Weir
8.9 miles (14.3 km)
Minehead Porlock Weir
Challenging - Moderate with an alternative more strenuous section
Leave the pavements of Minehead behind as you set off onto the first section of the 630 mile trail, through woodland, along steep cliff tops, farm tracks and up and down beautiful wooded combes with bracken, gorse and bubbling streams.
Exmoor boasts the highest coastline in England with cliffs rising to 250m, 820ft, therefore there are some steep climbs and descents in this section. You can choose to follow the dramatic route known as the ‘rugged’ coast path which runs closer to the coast, or stay more inland on the moor and enjoy the spectacular views from Selworthy Beacon.
There is a lot to look out for, as the Exmoor coast provides a rich habitat for many beautiful and rare species of flora and fauna, including the blackneck moth, red deer, stag beetles and whitebeam trees (relatives of the rowan or mountain ash, unique to Exmoor).
The force of the sea is really evident at the end of your journey, where it is essential to follow the sign-posted paths. In 1996 the natural 6000 year-old shingle ridge across Porlock Bay was breached by a storm, resulting in the dramatic flooding of the fields behind at each high tide. This land is now changing from farmland to saltmarsh, creating a very special habitat for marine life and birds.
Sea View B&B, Porlock
4 Star B&B, en suite. TV/free wi-fi. Breakfast Award: gluten free/vegetarian, local produce/homemade
bread/preserves. Drying facilities.
Baytree B&B, Minehead
Spacious Victorian house in a quiet central location, 5 minutes walk from the seafront and Coast Path. Extensive breakfast menu.
Myrtle Cottage, Porlock
A comfortable thatched cottage built over 400 years ago, bursting with character and charm. All rooms en-suite, award winning breakfast.
Exmoor Country House
Beautiful Guest House within Exmoor National Park in the enchanting village of Porlock. Evening dinner every night except Sunday.
The Cottage B&B, Porlock
A cosy, luxurious, historic and friendly B&B in the heart of the village, close to all amenities
Anchor Cottage
Warm, cosy, well equipped 2 bed 17th century Fisherman's cottage near Minehead Harbour. Start the Path from the doorstep.
Pardlestone Farm
Farmhouse B&B and self-catering cottage, a few 100yds from Coleridge Way in Quantock Hills which links to SW Coast Path. Walking distance to shop, pub and Kilve beach.
Sparkhayes Farm Campsite, Porlock
Family site-5 minute walk to the village and its shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants. 20 minute walk down to the sea on the South West Coast Path.
Hillside
Bedroom with view of Hurlestone Point. Double bed, private bathroom and downstairs toilet. Can provide mattress for child. Use of kitchen for DIY breakfast. Sunny back patio.
Rosanda House Holiday Flats, Minehead
Comfortable self-contained self-catering flats yards from the start of the South West Coast Path. Great base from which to walk and explore Exmoor & West Somerset.
Reines House B&B, Porlock
Benefitting from a peaceful location, yet a short walk from Porlock's numerous shops, pubs and restaurants. Locally sourced produce from sausages to tea and coffe. Packed lunch on request.
Montrose Guest House, Minehead
Sunfield B&B, Minehead
A delightful family-run guest house tucked away in a quiet corner of Minehead. Delicious home cooking and a warm welcome awaits.
Quarry Cottage, Porlock
Tudor Cottage
15th century Licensed Farmhouse B&B offering a hearty breakfast with beautiful views. Evening meal, packed lunch & afternoon teas by arrangement
Ash Farm, Porlock Hill
Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster
Situated in the medieval village of Dunster within Exmoor National Park, we specialise in walking holidays and special interest breaks. Our independent 3* family run hotel prides itself on friendly service.
Westcountry Walking Holidays
We specialise in delivering flexible, great value self-guided walking holidays and short breaks on the Path. Standard package includes B&B accommodation, baggage transfer and maps and guides.
Exmoor Rambler, Porlock
Exmoor Rambler stocks a large range of outdor clothing & equipment-waterproofs,walking boots, walking guides,etc. Ideally suited for South West Coast Path.
