South West Coast Path: creating a year-round economic asset in Devon

Dog overlooking the bay at Sunset at Woolacombe, Devon — Dog overlooking the bay at Sunset at Woolacombe | © National Trust Images

The ambition is to a create a year-round experience for everyone, with economic benefits for local communities on the South West Coast Path. Thanks to funding from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, we've started to make this ambition a reality. Works including path repairs, signage upgrades and access improvements, are part of a wider vision to create an all-year walking experience for everyone to enjoy.

Improving experiences and access for all

These projects will bring higher quality experiences throughout the year that more people can access. This will benefit local businesses and communities outside the main tourism seasons.

This work has been part-funded from 2019 to 2021 by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

The small stone artist cabin at Bucks Mills with sea in the background — The artist's cabin at Bucks Mills | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Sites in Devon that EAFRD has invested in

Woolacombe: Flat Point, near Illfracombe and Woolacombe, is part of this ongoing ambition. This area of the North Devon coast is a spectacular stretch of coastline made up of cliffs, coves, beaches, dunes and headlands.
South Devon Countryside: Accessible pathways, strenuous hikes, secret coves and ancient history – South Devon has it all, and is now benefiting from improvements.
Bideford Bay and Hartland: Miles of unspoiled coastline that inspired Rudyard Kipling. Green Lane and Bucks Mills are some of the areas that have benefited from the improvements as part of this project.
Man Sands marshland: The marshland at Man Sands, near Brownstone and Coleton Camp on the rugged and captivating stretch of coast in the English Riviera, is proud to be part of this funded project of works.
Salcombe Regis, Branscombe: Tucked away in a valley that runs down to a beach on the famous Jurassic Coast, Salcombe Regis has taken part in the scheme.

Thank you

We would like to thank the contractors, staff and volunteers who have worked through the challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic. They have helped to provide year-round spaces for everyone who enjoys the South West Coast Path.

View over the cliffs and sea at Carnewas at Bedruthan on a sunny day

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Our natural world and places of historic beauty are at serious risk. Together, we can help nature recover, bring people closer to it, and ensure our shared history continues to inspire us all.

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The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) finances the EU's contribution to rural development programmes (RDPs).

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Mine buildings on the edge of cliffs with sunset over the sea

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