SWCP Journeys – The South West Coast Path

Wonder on the South West Coast Path: A Poem from our Members

Our members never cease to inspire us with their South West Coast Path stories. While many share their experiences through the popular Completers section of Trailblazing magazine, this month we received something a little different: a wonderful poem from Jackie Counter and Graham Green. Perfectly timed for National Poetry Day 2026, with its theme of Wonder, the poem beautifully captures the magic, commitment and endurance required for a journey along the 630-mile Coast Path.

SWCP Journeys Explore

A Love Letter To Really Really Big Walks

Guest writer Tom Lowe grew up on the South West Coast Path. Jam first by nature, cream first by nurture. When not walking, Tom works in education. You might bump into him around North Devon trying to figure out how to say “Buen Camino” in scone. Tom shares some reflections and lessons learned whilst walking on trails around the world.

SWCP Journeys

On the Edge: Walking the South West Coast Path with Limited Sight

A selection of images entered into the 2025 SWCP Photographer of the Year Competition introduced us to one of our valuable members, Lena Welch, and her epic challenge to walk the South West Coast Path in stages. Friends and walk supporters captured some special moments on the Jurassic Coast section with one photograph being awarded a third place in the People and Path category of the competition. We are delighted to share Lena’s journey so far.

SWCP Journeys

World Poetry Day: 4 friends 4 years: A South West Coast Path journey

To celebrate World Poetry Day we share a poem that reflects on an 83-day, 630-mile journey along the South West Coast Path, shared by four friends over several years. Blending humour, challenge and reflection, it celebrates not just the landscapes and wildlife they encountered, but the deep friendships, resilience and life changes experienced along the way—making it a truly unforgettable adventure.

SWCP Journeys

The Coast is our Compass

Martyn Howe, author, long-distance hiker and Life Member of the charity, undertakes a pilgrimage along the world’s longest coastal path – the recently inaugurated, King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP). Martyn was fortunate to be able to walk what is now England’s newest and longest National Trail, and has written a book, The Coast is our Compass, about his experience.

SWCP Journeys

Tough Girl Challenge: South West Coast Path in 40 days

In celebration of International Women’s Day (8 March) we are sharing the South West Coast Path journey of Sarah Williams. Sarah runs the award-winning Tough Girl podcast, is a long distance hiker clocking up over 7,500 miles on trails across the world, and in 2024 decided to take on the South West Coast Path.