Brean Down coastal walk
Discover one of the great landmarks of the Somerset coastline on this scenic coastal walk across Brean Down. Standing over 300ft (92m) high and extending 1.5 miles (2.4km) into the Bristol Channel, the Down is steeped in intriguing stories, from prehistoric worship to Second World War weapon testing. It’s also renowned for its wildlife, so keep a look out for a great variety of birds, plants and butterflies whilst on this circular route.
Beware of cliffs and deep mud
If on Brean Beach (part owned by the National Trust) be aware of deep mud at low tide. Cliffs are dangerous (children should be supervised). Keep an eye out for changes in the weather as there is little shelter on top of the Down.
Total steps: 6
Total steps: 6
Start point
Cove Café, grid ref: ST296588
Step 1
There are two routes from the café towards the headland. At low tide head onto the beach and walk towards the headland until you reach the coast path to your right, continue on the path until you reach some fairly steep steps. These will lead you up onto the Down. For a more accessible route continue on the road and follow the route to the tarmac path on your right.
Step 2
Once on the Down, take the path to the left, along the southern slopes. Wildlife thrives here due to the rocky limestone grassland and warm south facing cliffs.
Step 3
Continue along the path until you come to the site of a Romano-Celtic temple. It was built in about AD 340, close to a Bronze Age burial mound. Rock from a quarry on the Down provided some of the stone for the building.
Step 4
Further along the path you will come across the remains of a Celtic field system, a series of small rectangular fields.
Step 5
Continue up towards the fort, which is located on a small hill. Here you can take a closer look at the remains of the fortifications and enjoy spectacular views across the Bristol Channel.
Step 6
From the fort make your way back along the other side of the Down to the site of the Iron Age hillfort. Take a closer look at the banks and ditches before continuing along the path. Follow it round to the right. This will take you back to the steps and down to the café.
End point
Cove Café, grid ref: ST296588
Trail map
More near here
Cheddar Gorge trail
Explore the famous cliffs of Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, on this exhilarating National Trust walking route.
Sand Point circular coast walk
Follow this circular coastal walk for wildlife, archaeological features and great views across the Bristol Channel to Wales.
The ups and downs of Brean
A gentle Brean Down walk offering snapshots of local military history as well as memorable views encompassing the Somerset Levels, Weston-super-Mare and Wales.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Explore Brean Down by Tramper
Our all-terrain mobility scooters, called Trampers, allow you to enjoy a great day out at Brean Down even if you have difficulty walking. Find out more about how to hire one.
Visiting Brean Down with your dog
Dogs on leads are very welcome at Brean Down, with plenty of coastal terrain to stretch those four legs. Find out more about where you can take them and what to keep in mind. Brean Down is a one pawprint rated place.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.