A Coast for … Striding by the Sea

Sunday afternoon stroll or full-on walking festival with like-minded hikers, nothing beats a coast path and with new stretches opening, there’s never been a better time to pull those boots on! 

Essex’ generally flat landscape, open countryside and 350-mile coastline cries out to be explored on foot. Scores of footpaths and bridleways criss-cross the county, check out Visit Essex’ routes with choice for all fitness levels and many starting or finishing at the local train station. 

Take the Wivenhoe Trail from the train station to Colchester, a fairly flat, 2.5 mile route with riverside walking, great for bird-watching with plenty of cafes and pubs en route.  

If you’re feeling a little more ambitious, try the 13.4 mile Mersea Island walk past oyster beds and salt marshes, seabirds, historic churches, you’ll be rewarded with great food and drink. 

Bluebells, blossoms, and butterflies! A four-day mini Saltmarsh Coast Walking Festival launches 24-27 April with routes around Maldon District. Springtime is the perfect season for walking! Discover the nature, wildlife, and hidden gems of the Maldon District. 

However, this is the prelude to the main Saltmarsh Coast Walking Festival held between 26 September and 5 October 2025. This year's Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with 40 guided walks to choose from over the ten days. There'll be walks to suit all ages and abilities, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes, covering the beautiful coast and countryside of the Maldon District. Importantly, all walks include a welcoming venue for lunch and refreshments.  

Releasing 25 April, The Salt Path film based on the best-seller by Raynor Winn, tells the true story of husband- and-wife Raynor and Moth’s life-changing trek along the 630-mile South West Coast Path, which hugs the coast from Somerset to Dorset.   

The UK’s longest and much-loved Coast Path draws hundreds of thousands of walkers annually and the film will undoubtedly cause numbers to rocket. Durlston Country Park in Dorset provides the backdrop for one of the scenes, showcasing its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views. 

If you’ve never walked any of the SWCP, the Dorset stretch is simply stunning and takes in some of the coast’s iconic landmarks, highlights include Old Harry Rocks, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, Chesil Beach and Lyme Regis. 

There’s plenty more for walkers at the Dorchester Walking Festival held during National Walking Month and taking place 10-18 May.  Come for a busy programme of walks led by experienced volunteers showcasing the best of the county’s beauty and heritage and suitable for all abilities. 

Spot seals, red squirrels and seabirds, the wildlife on offer is best seen on foot and there are walks for all abilities  

The natural beauty and nature of East Yorkshire’s coastline makes it the perfect destination for walking enthusiasts and with the newly inaugurated King Charles III Coast Path, there’s never been a better time to explore. Find East Yorkshire walking trails here.

Visit in June for the week-long Wolds Rangers Way Walking Festival or in September for the Walking East Yorkshire Festival. The festivals cater to all levels of walkers, from leisurely strolls, accessibility trikes, to challenging hikes. Highlights include guided walks led by knowledgeable locals, wildlife spotting excursions, and themed walks that delve into the area’s fascinating history and folklore.  

The King Charles III Coastal Path is a must-visit; this stunning trail currently stretches from Filey all the way down to Bridlington, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and if you’re lucky a seal colony too. The path is well-marked and maintained and you’ll encounter charming seaside villages and towns like Flamborough and Bridlington, ideal for replenishing after all that fresh air!  

A new wave of walks has been added to the Isle of Wight’s Spring Walking Festival, 10 to 18 May. 

The Festival offers an impressive 68 walks for every ability including guided walks, scenic trails and community focused events. New to the line-up is the Hidden Gems of Ryde a short, gentle walk that visits the Isle of Wight Bus Museum, Monkton Arts Studio and Appley Tower. 

For a beautiful walk through Whitcombe Valley, join Under the Clock - the story of Whitecroft Hospital and follow this 3-mile circular route around Whitcombe.  There’s a chance to see red squirrels by joining the Newchurch Anecdotal History and Red Squirrel Walk, follow the trail of the executed king; the queen who never was, the hanged man and the Celtic magic wand.  

Literary buffs will enjoy Walking Talking Reading J.B. Priestley, a circular downland coastal walk around Brook Hill House - the home of J.B. Priestley until 1959. Explore more here. 

Head over to the Isle of Thanet and you’ll find 19 miles of spectacular coastline and the King Charles III England Coast Path covers all it! The beach-front section is known as The Viking Coastal Trail. 

This is the longest continuous stretch of coastal chalk in Britain and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).  You’ll also be in for a treat, this North East Kent Marine Protected Area is one of the best sites in Europe for wintering birds, chalk reef marine life and sandy beaches so bring the binoculars. 

If you’re after a special workout, try a Nordic Walking Experience - enjoy some of the Isle of Thanet’s stunning landscapes with a British Nordic Walking Instructor, this enhanced technique uses poles to work your upper body as well as your legs.