With millions of explorers hitting the UK’s hiking trails annually, Rydale has ranked the country’s best unforgettable coastal walks for those seeking salty air and scenic climbs.
The allure of coastal hikes – where sea spray meets rugged cliffs and winding paths hug the water’s edge – continues to captivate outdoor lovers. Beyond the obvious benefits of walking, like boosting physical and mental wellbeing, hiking beside the sea offers something more: panoramic views, dramatic terrain, and the feeling of being on the edge of the world. The only question that remains: where should your boots take you next?
From the Cornish cliffs to windswept Scottish bays, Rydale, a Yorkshire-born country clothing brand, has dug into extensive online data to compile the UK’s eight most awe-inspiring coastal hikes. Each trail has been rated from one to ten (one being underwhelming, ten being exceptional) for scenic beauty, trail difficulty, and accessibility.
Must-Do Coastal Hikes for Avid Explorers:
|
Position |
Location |
Key Features |
Scenic Beauty |
Difficulty |
Accessibility |
|
1 |
South West Coast Path, Cornwall |
Overlooks turquoise coves & golden beaches |
10/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
|
2 |
Causeway Coast Way, Northern Ireland |
Views of the world-famous Giant’s Causeway |
9/10 |
6/10 |
8/10 |
|
3 |
Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall |
UK’s most southerly point with dramatic cliffs |
9/10 |
6/10 |
7/10 |
|
4 |
Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Wales |
Wildflowers & dolphins along the route |
9/10 |
7/10 |
7/10 |
|
5 |
St Abb’s Head, Scottish Borders |
Birdlife haven with rugged sea stacks |
8/10 |
4/10 |
7/10 |
|
6 |
Flamborough Head, East Yorkshire |
Dramatic chalk cliffs, caves, and coastal arches |
8/10 |
3/10 |
8/10 |
|
7 |
Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire |
Historic smuggling route with seafront charm |
8/10 |
6/10 |
9/10 |
|
8 |
Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula |
Sweeping bay views and tidal island access |
9/10 |
6/10 |
6/10 |
1. South West Coast Path, Cornwall
Stretching 630 miles in total, the most breathtaking leg of the South West Coast Path is certainly by the water’s edge. Think turquoise waters, golden sands, and hidden coves—all ready to be explored by seasoned hikers and day-trippers alike.
2. Causeway Coast Way, Northern Ireland
For a walk that feels like stepping into a fantasy novel, linking Ballycastle to Portstewart, Causeway Coast Way passes castles, cliffs, and the legendary Giant’s Causeway.
3. Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall
A remote, wind-whipped adventure surrounded by rare flora and seabirds, the Lizard Peninsula covers Britain’s southernmost stretch of coast.
4. Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Wales
From wildflowers and puffins to dolphin sightings, this trail offers an immersive adventure blending spectacular views with plenty of wildlife.
5. St Abb’s Head, Scottish Borders
For lovers of solitude and sea stacks, this less-travelled trail delivers rugged drama and offers some of the best birdwatching hotspots in the UK.
6. Flamborough Head, East Yorkshire
Marked by soaring chalk cliffs and secret caves, this walk is a real gem, promising views of towering cliffs and the occasional seal colony sighting.
7. Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire
Steeped in history and folklore, this cliffside path between two iconic Yorkshire fishing villages offers sensational views and timeless charm.
8. Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula
A sweeping curve of beach ranked among the world’s best, this trail also boasts Worm’s Head – a tidal island accessible on foot at low tide.
Visit our men's and ladies' walking collections for durable outdoor wear made for every ramble, scramble, and cliffside adventure (minus the blisters).
