South West Coast Path: Westward Ho! to Padstow | Stage 2
South West Coast Path: Westward Ho! to Padstow | Stage 2
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Walk a fascinating stretch of the South West Coast Path, from Westward Ho! to Padstow, through an area of outstanding natural beauty that links the Devon coast with the charm of Cornwall. This itinerary combines wild Atlantic landscapes, magnificent cliffs, golden beaches, and villages steeped in history and legend.
- Descend from rugged cliffs to secluded coves, crossing a variety of landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to elevated coastal paths.
- Pass through authentic coastal villages, such as Clovelly, famous for its cobbled streets with no vehicles and its seaside atmosphere, and enjoy sublime views from headlands such as Hartland Point.
- Experience moments steeped in mythology and history as you pass Tintagel Castle, a mythical place linked to King Arthur and with an important archaeological legacy.
- Walk through deep valleys and dramatic cliffs, with waterfalls such as Speke's Mill Mouth, and landscapes that defy remoteness, where only the Atlantic and seabirds accompany your progress.
- Arrive in Padstow, the lively port of Cornwall, with its vibrant gastronomy led by Rick Stein's restaurants and a local culinary offering brimming with fresh seafood and regional delicacies.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Westward Ho!
Begin your journey in Westward Ho!, a quirky and lively coastal town in North Devon, known for its name—the only one in the UK with an exclamation mark—and its summery spirit facing the Atlantic. Its long sandy beach, ideal for sunset strolls or a first dip, stretches alongside dunes and marshes that attract surfers and birdwatchers alike.
You can enjoy everything from the open views over the bay to the local bars and cafés, where you can soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this corner of the Devon coast. It's the perfect place to start your adventure along the wild and scenic South West Coast Path.
You can enjoy everything from the open views over the bay to the local bars and cafés, where you can soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this corner of the Devon coast. It's the perfect place to start your adventure along the wild and scenic South West Coast Path.
Overnight in Westward Ho!
The Waterfront Inn
Located in the coastal town of Westward Ho!, its rooms feature a TV, private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant and bar.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Westward Ho! to Clovelly 11,4 miles I 18,4 km
Leaving behind the open landscapes of the coastline, the trail enters a more intimate setting, where the Atlantic coast gives way to the enveloping shade of the Sloo Woods. Here, the coastal paths merge with the serenity of the forest, winding between ancient trees and tranquil glades that invite you to walk without haste.
The descent from the forest leads gently down to the cobbled streets of Clovelly, a place frozen in time, where white houses cascade down to the sea and cars are replaced by wooden sledges for transporting goods. With its sheltered harbor, cozy cafés, and views over the waters of the Bristol Channel, Clovelly is a living postcard of Devon's maritime past.
Ascent: 617m (2,024ft) / Descent: 539m (1,768ft)
The descent from the forest leads gently down to the cobbled streets of Clovelly, a place frozen in time, where white houses cascade down to the sea and cars are replaced by wooden sledges for transporting goods. With its sheltered harbor, cozy cafés, and views over the waters of the Bristol Channel, Clovelly is a living postcard of Devon's maritime past.
Ascent: 617m (2,024ft) / Descent: 539m (1,768ft)
Overnight in Clovelly
Harbour view
This charming accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy its terrace and beautiful garden, where you can relax at the end of the day.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Clovelly to Hartland Quay 10,3 miles I 16,6 km
Today you will leave behind the cobbled streets and timeless charm of Clovelly to enter a coastal stretch full of energy and spectacular views. As you head towards Hartland Point, prepare to be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lundy Island, which stands majestically on the Atlantic horizon.
The trail winds its way between rugged cliffs and coastal meadows, combining the power of the ocean with the calm of the wilderness, making this stage an invitation to explore and discover the true essence of the Devon coastline.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a trip to swim alongside the playful seals that inhabit these waters, an up-close and exciting experience that connects you with the region's marine life.
Ascent: 510m (1,673ft) / Descent: 600m (1,969ft)
The trail winds its way between rugged cliffs and coastal meadows, combining the power of the ocean with the calm of the wilderness, making this stage an invitation to explore and discover the true essence of the Devon coastline.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a trip to swim alongside the playful seals that inhabit these waters, an up-close and exciting experience that connects you with the region's marine life.
Ascent: 510m (1,673ft) / Descent: 600m (1,969ft)
Overnight in Hartland Quay
Elmscott B&B
Surrounded by a large, beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air, this accommodation offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Hartland Quay to Bude 15,3 miles I 24,6 km
From the rugged cliffs that mark the boundaries of this stage, the trail descends to one of the most impressive natural wonders of the entire South West Coast Path, Speke's Mill Mouth waterfall, which, at 15 meters high, marks the entrance to the region of Cornwall. This spectacle of water and rock offers a refreshing break on a challenging route full of wild beauty.
The route continues along secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs that have witnessed more than 150 shipwrecks, making this coastline a legendary haven for lovers of maritime history. Along the way, you will stop at Hawkers Hut, the smallest property owned by the National Trust in the United Kingdom, originally built with driftwood collected from the sea, which preserves the memory of the sailors and lighthouse keepers who inhabited these lands.
The trails wind through rugged landscapes and tranquil coastal corners, offering an authentic encounter with the untamed nature and living history of Cornwall. Meanwhile, you will enter Bude, a lively coastal town known for its long beaches and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for gathering momentum before venturing into a stretch full of dramatic landscapes.
Ascent: 830m (2,723ft) / Descent: 840m (2,756ft)
The route continues along secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs that have witnessed more than 150 shipwrecks, making this coastline a legendary haven for lovers of maritime history. Along the way, you will stop at Hawkers Hut, the smallest property owned by the National Trust in the United Kingdom, originally built with driftwood collected from the sea, which preserves the memory of the sailors and lighthouse keepers who inhabited these lands.
The trails wind through rugged landscapes and tranquil coastal corners, offering an authentic encounter with the untamed nature and living history of Cornwall. Meanwhile, you will enter Bude, a lively coastal town known for its long beaches and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for gathering momentum before venturing into a stretch full of dramatic landscapes.
Ascent: 830m (2,723ft) / Descent: 840m (2,756ft)
Overnight in Bude
The Grosvenor
Located in the charming town of Bude, this accommodation offers rooms with a TV, private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi. In addition, a delicious and full breakfast is served in the mornings.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Bude to Crackington Haven 10,3 miles I 16,5 km
After leaving Bude behind, the imposing Tintagel Castle looms in the distance, dominating the cliffs and offering fantastic panoramic views over the vast Atlantic stretching to the horizon. This place, steeped in legend and mystery, evokes the mythical story of King Arthur, immersing travelers in an atmosphere of magic and tradition.
The trail continues through the deep and steep Scrade Valley, a wild landscape where cliffs rise abruptly and green hillsides seem to merge with the sea. This combination of history, nature, and spectacular views accompanies you to the end of the stage in Crackington Haven, a quiet coastal port that invites you to rest and enjoy the serenity after an unforgettable day by the sea.
Ascent: 490m (1,607ft) / Descent: 486m (1,595ft)
The trail continues through the deep and steep Scrade Valley, a wild landscape where cliffs rise abruptly and green hillsides seem to merge with the sea. This combination of history, nature, and spectacular views accompanies you to the end of the stage in Crackington Haven, a quiet coastal port that invites you to rest and enjoy the serenity after an unforgettable day by the sea.
Ascent: 490m (1,607ft) / Descent: 486m (1,595ft)
Overnight in Crackington Haven
The Coombe Barton Inn
This charming coastal accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
It also has a delicious restaurant serving local cuisine, such as fresh fish.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Crackington Haven to Tintagel 12,1 miles I 19,5 km
The stage begins in an ideal setting for nature lovers, where the trails wind through imposing cliffs and provide a refuge for various seabirds, making this part of the route a paradise for birdwatchers.
The highlight of the day is the arrival at the legendary Tintagel Castle, a fortress steeped in history and mystery, famous for its links to the legends of King Arthur. Its ruins evoke ancient tales and offer a fascinating setting from which to contemplate the powerful sea that bathes this coast.
Ascent: 702m (2,303ft) / Descent: 623m (2,044ft)
The highlight of the day is the arrival at the legendary Tintagel Castle, a fortress steeped in history and mystery, famous for its links to the legends of King Arthur. Its ruins evoke ancient tales and offer a fascinating setting from which to contemplate the powerful sea that bathes this coast.
Ascent: 702m (2,303ft) / Descent: 623m (2,044ft)
Overnight in Tintagel
King Arthurs Arms Inn
This comfortable, family-run accommodation offers bright rooms with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant serving a varied menu featuring locally sourced produce.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Tintagel to Port Isaac 9,3 miles I 15 km
This stretch, once a bustling fishing center, invites you to explore peaceful trails that wind through a landscape declared an Area of Exceptional Natural Beauty by UNESCO. Every step immerses you in an environment where maritime history blends with the serenity of protected nature, offering enchanting views of coves, cliffs, and villages with traditional charm.
Walking along this coastline is like stepping into a setting full of life and heritage, where the sea breeze and the landscape captivate the senses and make the experience unforgettable. This stage ends at the picturesque port of Port Isaac, famous for its authentic atmosphere and narrow streets by the sea.
Ascent: 533m (1,749ft) / Descent: 583m (1,913ft)
Walking along this coastline is like stepping into a setting full of life and heritage, where the sea breeze and the landscape captivate the senses and make the experience unforgettable. This stage ends at the picturesque port of Port Isaac, famous for its authentic atmosphere and narrow streets by the sea.
Ascent: 533m (1,749ft) / Descent: 583m (1,913ft)
Overnight in Port Isaac
The Slipway
Built in 1527, it offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a bar and a restaurant specializing in seafood.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Port Isaac to Padstow 11,8 miles I 19 km
Small valleys dot the route as you approach the final stretch of the stage, where the trail culminates in the unique experience of crossing the iconic Doom Bar aboard a ferry. Upon arrival in Padstow, a charming coastal town with a vibrant and authentic atmosphere awaits you.
You can find more information about ferry prices and schedules on the Padstow Harbour website.
Don't forget to take the opportunity to indulge in the renowned local cuisine, especially at Rick Stein's prestigious seafood restaurant, where the flavors of the Atlantic become a true feast for the palate, bringing an unforgettable day by the sea to a perfect close.
Ascent: 420m (1,378ft) / Descent: 456m (1,496ft)
You can find more information about ferry prices and schedules on the Padstow Harbour website.
Don't forget to take the opportunity to indulge in the renowned local cuisine, especially at Rick Stein's prestigious seafood restaurant, where the flavors of the Atlantic become a true feast for the palate, bringing an unforgettable day by the sea to a perfect close.
Ascent: 420m (1,378ft) / Descent: 456m (1,496ft)
Overnight in Padstow
The London Inn
This accommodation is located in a row of old fishermen's cottages and offers rooms with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
It also has a bar and restaurant.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Padstow
After a delicious breakfast, it's time to say goodbye and return to your place of origin.
End of our services.
End of our services.
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Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms
- Daily Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & Transfers
To get to the starting point of this hiking trail, you can fly to Exeter Airport, which is the closest, or Bristol Airport. You can also fly to any of the various airports in London.
If you arrive at Exeter Airport, you will need to take a bus to the city center and then take the Great Western Railway to Barnstaple. Finally, you will need to travel from Barnstaple to Westward Ho! by taking the number 21 bus.
From London, you can take two buses to get to Westward Ho!, first the National Express, which takes approximately 4.5 hours, and then the number 21 bus from Barnstaple. And from Bristol, you can take a combination of buses to get there. You can find more information about buses on the Stagecoach South West, FlixBus, and First Bus websites.
To return to your city of origin from Padstow, you can fly from Exeter or Bristol airports, or you can travel to London. To get to Exeter, Bristol, or London, take bus line 11 to Lostwithiel and then the train to the city center from where your flight departs.
You can find more information about trains on the GWR website and about buses on the Stagecoach South West website.
If you arrive at Exeter Airport, you will need to take a bus to the city center and then take the Great Western Railway to Barnstaple. Finally, you will need to travel from Barnstaple to Westward Ho! by taking the number 21 bus.
From London, you can take two buses to get to Westward Ho!, first the National Express, which takes approximately 4.5 hours, and then the number 21 bus from Barnstaple. And from Bristol, you can take a combination of buses to get there. You can find more information about buses on the Stagecoach South West, FlixBus, and First Bus websites.
To return to your city of origin from Padstow, you can fly from Exeter or Bristol airports, or you can travel to London. To get to Exeter, Bristol, or London, take bus line 11 to Lostwithiel and then the train to the city center from where your flight departs.
You can find more information about trains on the GWR website and about buses on the Stagecoach South West website.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What is the best time of year to do this trip?
The tour is available from March to early October. April, May and June are particularly recommended, when spring flowers fill the landscape and temperatures are pleasant for walking. September and early October also offer an ideal experience, with fewer visitors after the high season. For those seeking tranquillity, it is also possible to take this trip in March and late October, when the villages and trails are quieter. However, during these months the weather can be more unpredictable, with cold, wind, rain and muddy paths, so it is advisable to come well prepared.
What should my physical preparation be?
This route is of medium-high difficulty, making it ideal for people looking for 6 to 7 hours of walking per day with climbs that can be steeper and longer. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition and in good health. Some sections of the walk have uneven terrain, including rocky areas.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you.
If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.
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