Stay along the South West Coast Path Porlock to Bude

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Experience Exmoor Cliffs and Coastal Trails with Places to Stay Nearby

The South West Coast Path from Porlock to Bude begins on the dramatic coastline of Exmoor, where some of the highest sea cliffs in England create a striking and memorable start. Leaving Porlock, the route passes through the peaceful village of Bossington and along Bossington Beach, before rounding Hurlstone Point, a prominent headland offering expansive views across the Bristol Channel. This early section combines rugged cliffs, open moorland, and a real sense of wild, unspoilt landscape.

Continuing west, the path follows a challenging but rewarding line along steep coastal terrain, with frequent ascents and descents that reflect the natural contours of the cliffs. The route gradually leaves the Exmoor coastline behind and enters the varied scenery of North Devon, where wooded valleys, rocky coves, and sweeping coastal views provide constant variety. Further along, the landscape transitions again as the trail approaches North Cornwall, with increasingly rugged headlands and Atlantic-facing cliffs.

The section finishes in the coastal town of Bude, offering a well-earned rest point with a range of accommodation options and amenities. This stretch of the South West Coast Path is particularly known for its dramatic cliffs, remote feel, and ever-changing scenery, making it a rewarding challenge for walkers looking to experience some of the most impressive coastal landscapes in the region.

Route length
107.4 miles
Accommodation options:
171 hotels, inns and B&Bs
Total elevation gain:
7311 m
Total elevation loss:
7320 m
Lowest point:
-2.4 m
Highest point:
314.5 m
Elevation gain and loss represent the total cumulative ascent and descent across the full route.

Route map and nearby hotels

Route line Other linked hotels Current hotel Hihest point

Elevation profile

The chart shows the route from start to finish. If a hotel has been selected, its nearest position on the route is shown as a highlighted marker.

Accessibility

This route is suitable for Walkers

About the Terrain

Difficulty: 🟠 Moderate

This section of the South West Coast Path from Porlock to Bude is generally graded as moderate to challenging, with frequent steep ascents and descents, particularly along the Exmoor coastline where high cliffs and rugged terrain dominate. The path is well-defined but can be uneven underfoot, with a mix of rocky sections, grassy tracks, and narrow cliff-top paths that require careful footing.

There are no technical climbing sections, but the sustained elevation changes and exposed stretches can make this route physically demanding, especially in poor weather. The path is not suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, or cyclists, due to uneven surfaces, steps, and steep gradients. Walkers should have a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared with sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing for changing coastal conditions.

A good range of hotels, inns, and B&Bs can be found in towns and villages along the route, allowing this section to be completed in manageable stages with planned overnight stops.

The route shown is intended to give a general sense of how nearby accommodation is positioned in relation to the walk, helping you gauge proximity rather than providing a detailed navigation guide. While the map outlines the route, it should be viewed as an overview only and may not reflect every turn, feature, or on-the-ground condition you may encounter.

For the walk itself, it is advisable to use a reliable map and/or an electronic navigation aid to assist with route finding, particularly in areas where paths may be less distinct or conditions change. Taking time to plan ahead, check local information, and prepare for varying terrain and weather will help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Selected hotel

Select a hotel from the list to highlight its location on the route and see where it sits on the elevation profile.

Hotels along this walking trail