England's entire coastline now open with launch of King Charles III England Coast Path

For the first time in history, England’s entire coastline is officially open to the public, with the launch of the King Charles III England Coast Path. Stretching over 2,700 miles, this National Trail is now the longest managed and waymarked coastal path in the world, connecting some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to saltmarshes, estuaries, and historic seaside towns.

This milestone is the culmination of more than 16 years of work to transform access to the coast. Over 1,000 miles of new routes have been created, supported by new infrastructure such as bridges, boardwalks, and upgraded paths, opening previously inaccessible areas to walkers and nature lovers.

The path’s creation has been a true collaborative effort. Expertise from across the National Trail network - including the South West Coast Path, Norfolk Coast Path, and Cleveland Way, alongside countless local partners, land managers, and stakeholders, ensured that gaps in the coastline were bridged, creating a continuous route for all to enjoy. And while today marks the official opening, as the coastline is forever changing, so too is the National Trail. For the first time on a National Trail, the King Charles III England Coast Path includes 'roll back', the provision for the route to be moved inland as the coastline erodes and shifts.

Thanks to the ability to respond to coastal changes, this new trail ensures future generations of people will experience England's coastline and be able to connect with nature, heritage and landscape across a diverse range of environments.

Polly Martin, Chief Executive of National Trails UK, said:

"This is one of the most significant public access achievements in a generation. The trail is not just about distance; it’s about access. It opens up our coastline in a way that simply hasn’t existed before, giving millions of people the opportunity to enjoy its beauty, nature, heritage and the wellbeing benefits of being outdoors."

Maintaining the King Charles III England Coast Path, along with all National Trails, depends on the ongoing dedication of National Trail officers, Partnership Managers, Public Rights of Way professionals, National Parks, and National Landscapes. Ensuring these trails remain world-class will require continued investment, strong policy support, and public awareness of their value to nature, communities, and wellbeing.

The launch also highlights the potential of the Coastal Wildbelt programme, which uses the new trail as the backbone of a wider, nature-rich corridor. This initiatve aims to strengthen climate resilience, support local economies and connect more people with nature.

Kate Jury, Coastal Wildbelt Programme Manager, explained: 

"This is a once-in-a-generation moment for our coastline. By thinking about the trail as part of a wider coastal corridor, we can ensure that access, nature recovery and community benefit go hand in hand—creating a coastline that works for people and nature long into the future."

The King Charles III England Coast Path is more than a trail; it is a national asset that opens doors to nature, heritage, and wellbeing. National Trails UK will continue to champion these routes, support the people who care for them, and ensure they deliver benefits for generations to come.

Read the full press release here:

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