Where to see stunning coastal views in South West England

South West England has over 700 miles of beautiful coastline offering a mix of small towns and villages, rugged cliffs, sandy bays, pebble beaches and hidden coves. We’ve chosen some of our favourite spots to enjoy some beautiful coastal hiking this summer.

The Dorset coast

Dorset’s Jurassic Coast is a 96-mile stretch of coastline in South West England with a geological history stretching back 185 million years. Here are some of our favourite spots for enjoying stunning views of the coast, all of which can be enjoyed on our Coastal Seascapes of Dorset trip.

View of Golden Cap cliff on the Dorset coast from the beach below

Golden Cap: The highest point on the south coast. Up here, you’ll be treated to 360° views of coastline and dramatic cliffs with the shimmering sea far below. 

Durdle Door: One of the most iconic spots on the south coast extending out dramatically into the sea. In summer, we recommend getting there early in the morning to avoid the crowds before heading over to a nearby cove for breakfast with a sea view.

Chapman’s Pool: Wild and secluded, this breathtaking cove is tucked away between dramatic cliffs. It’s the perfect spot to pause, surrounded by nature and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore.

View of a secluded cove with a cliff towering in the distance

The Exmoor coast

Exmoor is a land of wild heather-clad moorland that drops away dramatically to the sea. Of rugged rocky headlands and deep wooded valleys carrying tumbling streams to the coast. A place where you can walk crowd free in the heart of summer, immersed in nature and enjoying spectacular views as you walk. Here are some of our favourites from our Wild Coast and Moor trip.

Gore point: Just outside a beautiful, remote fishing village, Gore Point offers wonderful views of the sea. As you walk along the pebble beach with wooded hills to your back, the sea stretches out ahead of you, framed by the dramatic cliffs stretching out the east and west.

View of a blue-grey sea from a pebble beach with a cove and cliffs to the right

Dunkery Beacon: The highest point on Exmoor (and in Somerset)! While not directly on the coast, this hill offers breathtaking views of the moor stretching out to the sea. When you stand here, gazing at the ancient and remote landscape, you can really appreciate the wild beauty of this national park and Dark Skies Reserve.

Hurlstone Point: An abandoned coastguard lookout jutting out into the Severn Sea. From this wild, beautiful spot you’ll have experience amazing views of the rocky stretching far into the distance.

View from an abandoned coastguard lookout on the Exmoor coast

If you feel inspired to immerse yourself in peaceful coastal walking this summer, simply visit our Coastal Hikes page or send us an email. We always love to hear from you.

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