Health and Wellbeing – The South West Coast Path

Health and Wellbeing Community Engagement

Step by Step: Walking Supports Good Mental Health

Walking along the South West Coast Path is a simple, powerful way to support mental health. Our group walks help people stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the calming benefits of nature. From coastal views to shared conversations, participants often feel less stressed, more relaxed, and uplifted. Supporting key actions identified by the Mental Health Foundation, these walks show how fresh air, movement, and community can make a lasting difference to wellbeing.

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.

Community Engagement

Walking in Bad Weather: Leading Community Walks All Year Round

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.

Community Engagement Health and Wellbeing

Partnership and community with St Petrocs

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.

Health and Wellbeing SWCP Journeys

National Grief Awareness Week

To mark National Grief Awareness Week, we are sharing the very personal journey of Phil Brown, a member of the South West Coast Path Association who recently walked the full 630 miles in memory of his wife Anna. This is Phil’s story, in his own words, of his memorable walk.

Community Engagement Health and Wellbeing Volunteers

A year of community engagement walks on the South West Coast Path

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.