The ups and downs of Brean
A gentle walk to the quiet side of Brean Down, offering snapshots of local military history as well as memorable views: over the Somerset Levels to the south, the Victorian seaside resort of Weston-super-Mare to the north, and over the Bristol Channel to Wales.
Total steps: 6
Total steps: 6
Start point
Brean Down car park, grid ref: ST290590
Step 1
From the car park, turn left and follow the road, keeping to the left and heading for the steps.
Step 2
As you walk up the steps, the sand cliffs to your left are the result of thousands of years of sand being blown from the beach.
Step 3
At the top, take a deep breath and enjoy the view and blast of fresh sea air. Now head to your right (most will go left and head for the Fort). When you hit the road you'll walk past an old, flat-roofed building, where Harry Cox (warden for Brean Down) lived. Keep going and at the sharp right-hand bend, take the National Trust footpath to your left.
Step 4
In places the narrow path will become very steep, and will be muddy and slippery in wet weather. In the summer, you'll discover all sorts of plants which thrive on the thin limestone soils.
Step 5
Halfway along the path you'll have to negotiate a stile then carry on down the path until you reach the road at the bottom.
Step 6
At the road, turn right and head back to the car park and Cove Café for a refreshing cup of tea.
End point
Brean Down car park, grid ref: ST290590
Trail map
More near here
Brean Down coastal walk
Go on a scenic coastal walk across Brean Down and discover one of the great landmarks of the Somerset coastline with history to discover and wildlife to spot along the way.
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
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.
Top tips for coastal walks
Get safety tips for walking by the coast, including the essential clothing and equipment to take with you and what to do before you set out.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
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.