Top 5 Challenging South Coast Path Walks

The UK's longest National Trail, the South West Coast Path, offers some of the most stunning scenery in the country and plenty of opportunities to get outdoors, whether you're a weekend walker or seasoned long-distance hiker. If you're looking for something a bit more demanding than a country stroll, we've rounded up our top 5 challenging walks in this iconic area, rewarded with some incredible views.

Distance: 4.3 miles

This dramatic 4.7-mile walk is a true highlight for adventurous hikers, taking you to the summit of Great Hangman - the highest sea cliff in England and the loftiest point on the entire South West Coast Path. The route is both physically demanding and visually rewarding, offering a unique blend of coastal grandeur, deep valleys, and fascinating history.

• The ascent to Golden Cap is steep and sustained, demanding both stamina and determination.
• Multiple steep descents and climbs along the route ensure your legs (and lungs) get a thorough workout.
• The reward: panoramic coastal views stretching from Lyme Regis to Portland, and a sense of achievement at conquering the highest point on the south coast. 

Route Highlights:

• Start and finish at Langdon Hill National Trust car park, easily accessed from the A35.
• The trail combines woodland paths, open fields, and rugged coastal tracks, offering a constantly changing landscape.
• Key features include:
  • The summit of Golden Cap (191m)
  • The atmospheric ruins of St Gabriel’s Chapel
  • The “lost” medieval hamlet of Stanton St Gabriel, with its centuries-old history

Walk Stages and Features:

• Begin with a gentle woodland loop through Langdon Hill, surrounded by Scots pine and larch, and enjoy glimpses of the Dorset countryside.
• After about half a mile, branch off for the main challenge: the climb up Golden Cap. This section is steep, with steps and rough ground, but the summit rewards you with sweeping views across Lyme Bay and the rolling West Dorset hills.
• Pause at the top to catch your breath and soak in the views—this is the highest point on the south coast, and on a clear day you can see for miles in every direction.
• Descend carefully down the steep steps towards the valley and follow the signposted path to St Gabriel’s Chapel. The descent can be tough on the knees, especially in wet weather.
• Explore the haunting remains of the 13th-century chapel, once part of the now-abandoned hamlet of Stanton St Gabriel. Local legends and tales of smugglers add to the intrigue of this spot.
• Return via tranquil woodland paths through St Gabriel’s Wood, especially beautiful in spring when bluebells and wild garlic are in bloom.
• The final stretch brings you back to the car park, completing a loop that’s as rewarding as it is challenging.

• Terrain: Expect gravel paths, dirt tracks, grass, and numerous steps. Some sections are muddy and slippery after rain.
• Elevation Gain: Around 299m, with the most significant climb up Golden Cap itself.
• Facilities: None on the route itself. Nearest toilets, pub, and café are at Seatown.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pushchairs or those with limited mobility. Several kissing gates and livestock in fields - dogs should be kept under close control.
• Parking: Paid parking at Langdon Hill car park.

• Steep climbs and descents for a real physical challenge
• Summit of Golden Cap: highest sea cliff in southern England
• Ruined St Gabriel’s Chapel and the story-rich hamlet of Stanton St Gabriel
• Ever-changing scenery: ancient woodland, open fields, and dramatic coastline
• Exceptional views across the Jurassic Coast and inland Dorset hills

The Langdon Hill, Golden Cap & St Gabriel’s Chapel walk is a must for anyone seeking a challenging and memorable South Coast adventure. With its demanding climbs, rich history, and some of the finest views in Dorset, this route exemplifies why the South West Coast Path is famed among walkers. 

Route and information for the Langdon Hill, Golden Cap & St Gabriel’s Chapel walk. 

Distance: 4.7 miles

This dramatic 4.7-mile walk is a true highlight for adventurous hikers, taking you to the summit of Great Hangman - the highest sea cliff in England and the loftiest point on the entire South West Coast Path. The route is both physically demanding and visually rewarding, offering a unique blend of coastal grandeur, deep valleys, and fascinating history.

• The route climbs to 318 metres (1,043 feet) at Great Hangman, making it the highest point on the Exmoor coast and the South West Coast Path.
• Expect a long, steady ascent from sea level, with a climb of around 200 metres (650 feet) that, while not exceptionally steep, is relentless and requires a good level of fitness.
• The walk traverses rugged cliffs and combes, with deep valleys and dramatic drops to the sea below, ensuring a challenging and exhilarating experience. 

Route Highlights:

• Start in Combe Martin: The walk begins in the picturesque village of Combe Martin, nestled at the western edge of Exmoor National Park.
• Little Hangman: Early in the walk, you’ll ascend Little Hangman (218m/716ft), which overlooks the village and offers impressive views of the surrounding coastline.
• Great Hangman: The main challenge is the steady climb to Great Hangman, the highest sea cliff in England, with a sheer cliff face dropping 244 metres (800 feet) to the sea.
• Spectacular Views: From the cairn at the summit, take in far-reaching vistas over the Bristol Channel, the wild Exmoor hills, and along the North Devon coast.
• Geological Interest: The cliffs are formed from ancient Devonian sandstone, known as the Hangman Grits, and the area is rich in geological history.
• Historic Features: Pass the site of an old iron ore working at Blackstone Point and explore the landscape that inspired local legends and literary works.

Walk Features and Terrain:

• Long, steady climbs and descents - expect to be challenged both on the way up and down.
• Paths can be rugged and exposed, with sections that may be muddy or slippery after rain.
• The route is mostly open, with little shelter from wind or sun, especially on the higher ground.
• The walk is within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with abundant wildlife and wildflowers in spring and summer. 

• Elevation Gain: Approximately 318 metres (1,043 feet) to the summit of Great Hangman.
• Facilities: Limited on the route itself; amenities are available in Combe Martin at the start and end of the walk.
• Parking: Use the Kiln Car Park in Combe Martin as your base.
• Suitability: Best for experienced walkers with good fitness; not suitable for pushchairs or those with limited mobility.
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control due to livestock and steep drops.

• Highest sea cliff in England and the South West Coast Path
• Challenging, steady climbs and exhilarating descents
• Stunning panoramic views over Exmoor and the Bristol Channel
• Fascinating geology and local legends
• Rich in wildlife and wildflowers, especially in spring

Distance: 56 miles

Embark on a truly epic five-day adventure along the wild, windswept cliffs of Cornwall’s far west and south. The Sennen to Coverack route is a standout challenge on the South West Coast Path, weaving through some of the most dramatic and storied landscapes in England. This walk is not just a test of stamina, but a journey through geological wonders, mining heritage, and the raw beauty of the Atlantic coast.

• At 56 miles, this is an extended trek demanding endurance, with daily distances averaging around 11–12 miles.
• The route is packed with steep ascents and descents, rugged terrain, and exposed headlands that test even experienced walkers.
• You’ll pass two of England’s most iconic landmarks: Land’s End, the most westerly point, and Lizard Point, the most southerly. 

Route Highlights:

• Land’s End: Marvel at the granite cliffs and crashing waves at England’s westernmost tip. The area is famed for its dramatic rock formations and panoramic sea views.
• Mining Heritage: Walk past the haunting ruins of old tin and copper mines, especially around Cape Cornwall and the St Just area, where engine houses perch on cliff edges.
• Lizard Point: Reach the most southerly point in mainland Britain, with its distinctive serpentine rocks and rare wildflowers.
• Secluded Coves & Beaches: Discover hidden gems like Porthcurno, Kynance Cove, and Mullion Cove, each with turquoise waters and sandy beaches.
• Wildlife & Flora: Look out for seabirds, seals, and in spring and summer, a riot of coastal wildflowers.

Terrain & Challenge:

• Expect a mix of narrow cliff-top paths, rocky sections, sandy beaches, and occasional woodland.
• Frequent elevation changes make this a physically demanding walk, with some sections requiring careful footing, especially after rain.
• The route is well-waymarked but can feel remote between villages - be prepared for long stretches without facilities. 

• Accommodation: Options include B&Bs, hostels, and campsites in villages along the route. Booking ahead is recommended, especially in summer.
• Transport: Good bus links connect main points, but some villages are remote - plan your logistics in advance.
• Facilities: Cafés, pubs, and shops are scattered along the route, but carry water and snacks for longer, isolated stretches.
• Best Time to Walk: Late spring to early autumn for the best weather and longest daylight hours.

• Traverse Cornwall’s wildest cliffs and most famous headlands
• Land’s End and Lizard Point: England’s extreme west and south
• Ancient mining ruins and World Heritage landscapes
• Secluded beaches, turquoise coves, and abundant wildlife
• Five days of unforgettable coastal adventure

Distance: 2.1 miles

Heddon's Mouth offers a unique South Coast Path challenge - especially for those with limited mobility - thanks to the availability of Tramper all-terrain mobility scooters for hire from the National Trust at Heddon Valley. This short but rewarding walk takes you through ancient woodland and along a tranquil river valley, culminating at a secluded shingle beach framed by dramatic cliffs.

• The route is accessible for many with limited mobility when using a Tramper, making it a rare opportunity to experience the wild beauty of Exmoor’s coastline up close.
• The walk is short in distance but can be physically demanding for manual wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and gradients.
• The sense of adventure is heightened by the dramatic landscape - steep, scree-clad hillsides, ancient woodland, and the sound of the River Heddon as it winds to the sea. 

Route Highlights:

• Start at Heddon Valley National Trust Car Park: Begin your journey near The Hunter’s Inn, a welcoming country pub and a great spot for refreshments before or after your walk.
• Ancient Woodland: The path meanders through lush, leafy woodland, especially vibrant in spring with carpets of bluebells, wild violets, and red campions.
• Riverside Path: Follow the gentle course of the River Heddon, listening to the soothing sounds of water and birdsong as you make your way toward the coast.
• Secluded Shingle Beach: Reach Heddon’s Mouth, a tiny, pebbled cove surrounded by steep hills and dramatic cliffs—a perfect place to pause, picnic, and take in the wild scenery.
• Wildlife and History: Look out for rare butterflies, deer, and seabirds. The area is rich in stories of smugglers and even wartime U-boat activity.

Accessibility and Challenge:

• Tramper Mobility Scooters: These all-terrain vehicles can be hired from the National Trust, making the route accessible for many who would otherwise find the terrain too challenging.
• Path Conditions: While the main route to Heddon’s Mouth is relatively gentle, some sections can be muddy or uneven. The Tramper makes these manageable for most users, but manual wheelchair users may find the gradients and surfaces demanding.
• Rest Points: Benches are available along the route, providing opportunities to rest and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

• Parking: National Trust car park at Heddon Valley; free for members or pay and display for non-members.
• Facilities: Toilets and refreshments available at The Hunter’s Inn near the start and finish of the walk.
• Dog Friendly: Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control, especially where livestock may be present.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for wildflowers and butterflies, but the walk is beautiful year-round.

• Accessible adventure for those with limited mobility using a Tramper
• Ancient woodland, riverside paths, and a secluded shingle beach
• Dramatic cliffs and geological features of Exmoor’s coast
• Rich in wildlife, wildflowers, and local history
• Short but memorable route, perfect for a half-day outing

The South West Coast Path is perhaps the UK’s ultimate challenge for the long-distance hiker. A fast walker can complete the 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset in around 30 days, but a more leisurely pace is between seven and eight weeks. No matter how long it takes, it is a stunning achievement. The height gained and lost is the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest 4 times!

Routes and information on the 630-mile South West Coast Path.