On World Health Day, we explore how the South West Coast Path supports health and wellbeing. From research showing its potential benefits for the NHS to the inspiring story of a fatigue management walking group in Torbay, this blog highlights how gentle coastal walks can build community, resilience and hope.
There’s a saying that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. While that may be partly true, leading community walks in poor weather requires far more than a good waterproof. As we’ve seen this year, unsettled weather has meant staying flexible and keeping a hopeful eye on the forecast.
In this Q & A, Mike Radford, Vocational Development Officer at St Petrocs (Cornwall-based homeless charity) reflects on the value of the partnership between St Petrocs and the South West Coast Path Association, and the positive impact of the Coast Path Connectors project. Together we have delivered around 30 walks that support wellbeing, build connections and open up inspiring experiences for residents, staff and partners along the South West Coast Path.
Do your New Year resolutions include tackling the South West Coast Path this year? To help you get started, whether it’s to walk a few steps or the full 630 miles, Coast Path Connectors’ volunteer Jane Leigh explains how she set out on the Path, and what keeps her walking.
2025 has been a great year for walking. Our fantastic Coast Path Connectors (CPC) team has been out in the heat of the summer, the wet of the autumn, and the cold of the winter, creating many opportunities for people to enjoy the wellbeing benefits of coastal walking.
This year, for World Mental Health Day, we reflect on the impact that our Coast Path Connectors programme is having on the groups we walk with and the people we have had join us. Our walks aim to encourage a step away from everyday life, and a step onto the Coast Path and a new environment, that can offer a sense of freedom and space for both mind and body, and boost mental health and wellbeing.
The South West Coast Path 