King opens world's longest coastal path around England

5 hours ago

King Charles inaugurated the world's longest coastal footpath around England, named the King Charles III England Coast Path, stretching 2,689 miles.
The path passes through diverse landscapes including salt marshes, sandy beaches, cliffs, dunes, and historic coastal towns, with highlights like the Seven Sisters in East Sussex.
Over 1,000 miles of new paths were created, with existing sections upgraded, resurfaced, and made more accessible, including removing stiles and adding boardwalks and bridges.
The project, initiated under Gordon Brown's government, took 18 years and involved new legislation—the Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009).
About 80% of the route is open, with the rest expected to be completed by the end of the year, offering continuous access to England's coastline for the first time.
The path includes provisions for 'rollback' to adapt to coastal erosion and climate change, ensuring long-term accessibility.
Accessibility improvements allow more people, including those with reduced mobility, to enjoy sections of the trail.
The path links with the Wales Coast Path, raising the possibility of a continuous 9,000-mile walk around Britain, taking nearly two years to complete at 15 miles per day.
The Ramblers charity highlights the transformational access the path provides, allowing walkers to roam beaches and enjoy the coast freely.

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