New 2,689‑mile coastal trail
England has completed a continuous 2,689‑mile coastal hiking route that traces the entire shoreline, creating a single long‑distance path for thru‑hikers and multi‑week coastal trips. The route opens up new logistics and resupply options for ambitious hikers planning longer spring or summer expeditions. (valleyvanguardonline.com)
The new route has been officially named the King Charles III England Coast Path and was inaugurated by King Charles III at a ceremony on 19 March 2026. (gov.uk) Natural England says the programme established roughly 1,000 miles of new public coastal access and included targeted upgrades to paths and infrastructure along the shore. (gov.uk) Several regional improvement projects have added new signage, footbridges and permanent waymarking as stretches were brought up to National Trail standards. (gov.uk) Government progress data shows around 2,065 miles of proposed stretches have been submitted as complete and open, with hundreds more approved or under implementation as the organisation works toward opening the remaining sections. (gov.uk) The route traces back to the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, which charged Natural England with creating a continuous coastal path, and the scheme’s first public section opened in 2012 around Weymouth Bay. (en.wikipedia.org) Planners integrated the new trail with existing long-distance routes — for example the South West Coast Path (about 630 miles) and the Wales Coast Path (about 870 miles) — while legal provisions let the line be adjusted inland where erosion occurs to protect access and infrastructure. (nationaltrail.co.uk) Officials say the project is intended to drive more visitors and spending into coastal towns and communities through improved access and clearer trail management. (gov.uk)
