It’s holiday season, but if travelling abroad isn’t your thing, the UK has some stunning scenery to enjoy.
If you’re a fan of walking, then the coastal paths around our island have some beautiful beaches and expansive stretches of scenic clifftops to hike or stroll along, taking in the invigorating sea air at the same time.
Read on to discover five of the most beautiful coastal walks the UK has to offer.
The healing power of coastal walking
According to a survey from the National Trust, almost two-thirds of their respondents said walking by the coast made them feel more positive about their lives in general, and coastal walkers were more likely to get a good night’s sleep than those walking inland.
Back in the 18th century, doctors used to routinely prescribe “sea air” as a treatment for ailments ranging from tuberculosis to depression and fatigue. This took people away from unhealthy urban environments, where air was loaded with pollutants, and offered them cleaner, clearer air to breathe. It was also a way to force people to relax and remove themselves from the stress of their everyday lives.
There is also an element of science. Air near crashing waves contains negative ions, which are believed to help to improve mood and boost oxygen absorption.
So, if you find yourself feeling better after a walk by the coast, there are good reasons why. Here are five coastal walks you could try in the UK.
1. Marloes Peninsula, Pembrokeshire, Wales
4 miles, some rugged paths, with some gradients and steps
This circular route takes you across the beautiful heathland peninsula on the Pembrokeshire coast. Along the way, you’ll find contrasting geology, with sedimentary sandstones lining the south side and igneous rocks on the north side.
The walk takes you through the fascinating remains of Iron Age forts, which protected occupants of the day from land attacks.
There’s also an abundance of wildlife, with seabirds such as guillemots, puffins, and razorbills breeding in the area. If you’re lucky, you can also spot seal pups and porpoises in late summer, plus the Welsh mountain ponies are often out grazing on the heathland.
2. Giant’s Causeway Blue Trail, Northern Ireland
0.8 miles, easy terrain, but some slippery stones
The Blue Trail is a relatively short route to the famous Giant’s Causeway stones, but offers plenty of points of interest. You can choose to start by braving the glass panels on the roof of the visitor’s centre, or, if you prefer ground level, you can walk through the centre itself.
As you reach the first viewing point, you can look over Portnaboe Bay and spot Humphrey the Camel, an eroded rock formation.
From there, a short walk over the rocky terrain will take you to the Giant’s Boot. According to legend, this was lost by mythical Irish giant Finn McCool as he fled from his enemy.
3. Whitehaven, Lake District
7 miles, challenging terrain
This fascinating stretch of coastline takes you through secluded beaches and beautiful grasslands. Stop along the way to find out more about Saltom Pit, England’s first under-sea coal mine, and discover the remnants of an old alabaster mine at Barrowmouth Bay.
As you walk along the clifftops, you see old sandstone quarry workings, as well as an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife.
When you reach St Bees Head, you can stop at the viewing areas on the cliffs to spot the nesting seabirds, including black guillemots and, if you’re lucky, puffins.
4. Salcombe Hill Circular Walk, Sidmouth, Devon
4.6 miles, moderate terrain
Enjoy breathtaking views of Sidmouth from Salcombe Hill, as you walk the clifftops to look out over Lyme Bay and the famous Jurassic Coast. This is the first World Heritage Site in England designated for its natural features, with rocks along the coastline spanning 185 million years of geological history. The rocks here are known for their unconformity, with rocks from the Cretaceous period lying on top of those from the Triassic period.
If you walk during the summer, you’ll also find a colourful array of wildflowers, such as buttercups and foxgloves.
5. The Fife Coastal Path, Scotland
Kincardine to Limekilns
11 miles, moderate terrain
The Fife Coastal Path itself stretches for a full 117 miles, so you can choose to walk the whole thing, or a segment at a time. This section starts in Kincardine, before taking you through the historic village of Culross.
From there, you’ll walk around the edge of Torry Bay Local Nature Reserve, featuring rare salt marsh plants. If you have time, you can take a slight detour from the coastal route to visit the old lime kilns, before taking the promenade into the old harbour of Limekilns.
Get in touch
We hope you enjoy your coastal walks and return invigorated. When you’re ready to chat about any aspects of your financial planning, please email us at info@servoprivatewealth.com or call 01444 715200, and we’ll be happy to help.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
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Approved by Best Practice IFA Group Limited on 22/07/2026