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South West Coast of England

South West Coast Path – Stage 2 – Westward Ho! to Padstow – 6 Nights

April, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct£874 pp

Beat the Price Rise – Book by Fri 18th October!£844 pp

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SUMMARY

South West Coast Path – Stage 2 – Westward Ho! to Padstow – 6 Nights

No. of People: 1

PAYMENT

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TOTAL £999

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Considered by many to be the toughest, but one of the most magnificent sections of the South West Coast Path, walk from the picturesque coastal village of Westward Ho! to the charming fishing port of Padstow. It is a rollercoaster of a walk, rising to the top of towering cliffs and descending to secluded coves, winding through charming villages and passing over vast sandy beaches.

Quick Facts

  • 6 nights’ accommodation
  • 6 days’ walking
  • Guidebook and map provided
  • Daily door to door luggage transfers
  • 24hr telephone support during your walk
  • 79.5 miles (127.5km) and 6,920m (22,705ft) of ascent

About & Details

Beginning in Minehead and travelling 630 miles to South Haven Point in Dorset, the South West Coast Path is the longest of Britain’s National Trails.

The second section of the trail is not for the faint-hearted and provides a challenging but rewarding trek from Westward Ho! to Padstow. This magnificent section of the South West Coast Path takes you on a journey from Devon into Cornwall via a dramatic coastline consisting of tall cliffs and plunging valleys, sculpted by the fierce Atlantic Ocean. On the way you will pass through idyllic fishing villages and scenic seaside towns, all the while encountering an abundance of wildlife and remnants of history, from shipwrecks to the famous Tintagel Castle – inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur.

We take the stress out of your trip with expert local knowledge, hand-picked accommodation, luggage transfers and detailed support to help you find your way. You will need full walking kit including a waterproof jacket and trousers, a comfortable day sack and comfortable walking boots. You will receive a more detailed kit list upon booking.

The price for this trip is based on 2 people sharing.

Inclusions

  • 6 nights’ accommodation in good quality B&Bs or hotels with ensuite or private bathroom and breakfast
  • Luggage transfers each walking day (1 x bag per person, max. weight limit 20kg)
  • Map and guide book plus detailed directions to your accommodation from the trail
  • Expert local knowledge and 24 hour emergency assistance during your trip
  • Professional event organisation
Exclusions
  • Travel to the start and finish points of the trip
  • Lunches and evening meals
  • Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects)
  • Guiding (please contact us if you would like this trip to be guided)

Optional extras

  • Single room supplement £90 per person per night (subject to availability)
  • Solo traveler supplement £90 per person per night
  • Odd group supplement £90 per group per night may apply if a single room is required
  • Extra night prior to start (single room) £180 per person
  • Extra night prior to the start (twin room, needs 2 people) £95 per person
  • Extra night at the end of the event (single room) £180 per person
  • Extra night at the end of the event (twin room, needs 2 people) £95 per person

Please select from Optional Extras at checkout.

Getting there and back

Getting There

By road: To reach Westward Ho! take the M5 to junction 27 and then the A361 followed by the A39.

By public transport: The nearest train station to Westward Ho! is Barnstaple. Regular buses run between the two.

By air: The nearest airport to Westward Ho! is Exeter Airport. From Exeter you can then take a train to Barnstaple and then a bus or taxi to Westward Ho!

Getting Away

By road:

  • Routes to the north: M5, A30, A38, A389
  • Routes to the east: M4, M5, A30, A389
  • Routes to the west: M4, M5, A30

By public transport: Take a bus from Padstow to Bodmin Parkway train station, from where it is possible to catch a train to London, Birmingham, Manchester, etc.

By air: The nearest airport is Newquay. It is possible to take a bus from Padstow to this airport. The main regional airports are Bristol and Exeter. Although these are further away they may suit those coming from further away or overseas.

Evening meals and lunches

You can purchase evening meals either at the accommodation or nearby. When our event planners send you the schedule with itinerary you could prearrange directly with the accommodation or during the walk.

For lunches we would suggest bringing some of your own favourite snack bars and then asking the accommodation for a packed lunch for the following day and also supplementing that at stops en-route.

Accommodation

Accommodation is generally at B&B, guest houses and small hotels. Once booked in, your event planner will send you a list of your booked accommodation. It is possible to adjust according to preference at this stage so please mention it if you wish to change.

Dog-friendly

If you would like to bring your four legged friend, then we will do our best to source dog friendly accommodation. It is usually possible but if it were not, then we would suggest a change of date to enable it or offer a refund. There may be a small surcharge for the overnight stays. Therefore, once booked in, please alert your event planner that you would like to bring your dog and we can proceed from there.

Need a guide?

If you would prefer to have a guide for your walk, even just for one day, then we are happy to help. We can provide a qualified leader (also first aid qualified) to lead your trek or on just one of the sections. Just ask us.
A guide can not only take the stress out of navigation, but you will also find them a great asset in terms of providing an insight into all things environment and nature.

Dates and prices

For available dates please click on the ‘Book Now’ option on the left hand side on desktops or at the bottom on mobiles. You can reserve your space via this route.

After you book

After placing your booking with us, you will in the first instance receive an automated email from our system confirming receipt of your reservation. If you don’t receive it, it is worth checking your spam/clutter folder.

In the process of placing your booking, you will generally set up an access password to our online gateway where you can review the details of the booking.

Your personal event planner will then be in touch with you to start to confirm the details. This contact will usually be taken up in the working day after receipt of your booking, but may, in busy times, take a little longer. The event planner will then liaise with you regarding the details of the course. If you have any specific requirements, please do mention it at this stage.

At the end of your trip

Unfortunately, all good things come to an end at some point and when you arrive at Padstow you have one of several options. If you have not booked an additional night’s stay in Padstow then we can transfer your luggage to a location of your choice. From there you may have onward travel arranged as per the ‘Getting There and Back’ tab above.

Some people like to treat themselves to a night’s stay in Padstow at the end. And why not? You’ve earned it. You can arrange this as an optional add on with your event planner.

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Itinerary

  • Day 1 - Arrival in Westward Ho!

    Arrive at your accommodation in Westward Ho!

  • Day 2 – Westward Ho! to Clovelly

    Start your walk from the picturesque coastal village of Westward Ho! (the only place in the UK to feature an exclamation mark in its name) and follow the route along a disused railway track up onto the cliffs – on a clear day you are treated to glorious views and you may be able to spot Clovelly in the distance. The second half of the route today runs through woodland paths – a stark contrast from the open cliff tops at the start of today’s walk. To end the day, the path descends into the cobbled streets of Clovelly, a fishing village once owned by the Queen of England.
    18.5km (11.5 miles) and 980m (3215ft) of ascent

  • Day 3 – Clovelly to Hartland Quay

    Today, the South West Coast Path journeys through the beautiful and diverse landscape of the Hartland Peninsula. Leaving the streets of Clovelly behind, the path leaves the solitude of the ancient woodlands and once again returns to the open cliff tops where you are rewarded with views over to Lundy Island – a tiny, unspoiled outcrop. The lighthouse at Hartland Point marks a sudden change in direction and also a dramatic change in scenery as the trail heads along the barren, rocky coast to the remote Hartland Quay.
    16km (10 miles) and 1000m (3280ft) of ascent

  • Day 4 – Hartland Quay to Bude

    This section is arguably one of the most challenging, but rewarding sections of the entire South West Coast Path with a number of ascents and descents throughout the course of the day. The route climbs above the shoreline whose rocky outcrops have been responsible for many shipwrecks over the years. After crossing not one, not two, but ten river valleys, you find yourself on the approach to Bude, where your efforts are rewarded with fantastic views from Higher Sharpnose Point and Steeple Point. To end the day, the route follows sandy beaches into Bude – a popular year-round holiday destination.
    24km (15 miles) and 1390m (4560ft) of ascent

  • Day 5 – Bude to Bocastle

    After a strenuous day yesterday, today starts with an easy grassy cliff path to Widemouth Bay. The path once again proves challenging as it climbs up to the high point of Dizzard, before plunging down a steep valley into the secluded village of Crackington Haven. Prepare yourself for another steep climb up on to the top of the aptly named High Cliff. The path then roller-coasters into the scenic village of Bocastle – well known as one of the most picturesque places in the southwest.
    27km (17 miles) and 1380m (4530ft) of ascent

  • Day 6 – Bocastle to Port Isaac

    After leaving Bocastle, the trail journeys along a number of rugged headlands and secluded coves. Look out for the attractive Rocky Valley, before reaching the legendary Tintagel Castle – linked to the legend of King Arthur and steeped in centuries of history. It’s soon time to tear yourself away from this magnificent piece of history as a challenging, undulating walk awaits you through an area designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to Port Isaac – a vibrant village which is home to TV’s Doc Martin.
    23km (14 miles) and 1250m (4100ft) of ascent

  • Day 7 - Port Isaac to Padstow

    Your final day begins with a vigorous walk across a number of small valleys to Polzeath, following some lovely, unspoiled sections of the coast path, including Pine Haven and The Rumps – the views from here are magnificent and a real reward on your last day. To end the day, the walk becomes much more gentle as it journeys into Padstow Bay. Be sure to check that the ferry is running across the River Camel from Rock to Padstow, to avoid a lengthy detour inland to Wadebridge. Padstow couldn’t be a more perfect place to end your walk – an idyliic, Cornish fishing town whose stunning scenery has been used in many films and TV series. Don’t forget to check out the fine selection of cafés and restaurants – a well-deserved treat for finishing this incredible section of the South West Coast Path. The trip ends at the end of the walk unless you have booked extra nights or other optional services with us.
    19km (12 miles) and 920m (3020ft) of ascent

Notes:

This itinerary is a guide only. Timings and mileages are approximate.

We will always endeavour to accommodate you in the locations detailed in the above itinerary. Due to very high demand, some accommodation providers may occasionally have limited availability and so we may need to accommodate you in an alternative location, nearby. In this case, we will arrange a taxi transfer for you to take you from the trail to your accommodation and back again the following morning. An additional charge may be payable. We will notify you of this when confirming your booking.

 

The Route
Reviews

Find some of the reviews our wonderful customers have left for us below, or read them all here!

Heather Parr
3 months ago

Maximum Adventure exceeded expectations, planning a trip for me last minute and off season through the glorious Lake District. The hotels were top rate, as was the food and my daily gluten free sandwich. Nathalie got the route guide sent to me in a couple of days and the baggage service was impeccable. It was the only tour guide company that responded immediately to my last minute request. Looking forward to more adventures with your company!!!

Chris Evans
3 months ago

David and I walked the Speyside Way in September 2023 and very much enjoyed the adventure. Maximum Adventure Ltd organised our nightly accommodation and uplifting of our luggage in a seamless manner, which made the whole trip so easy with no stress. This is the second time that I have personally used Maximum Adventures Ltd and I would recommend them to others as they offer a friendly and efficient service.

Göte Fredriksson
4 months ago

We realy appreciated the tour we did on Hadrians Wall path in May.Beautiful scenery, decent weather, god arrangements including lodging, transport, bagagehandling etc. We came well prepared . In this preparation Maximum adventures gave us great support, as we are coming from abroad with no knowledge of conditions on the path. We had great BnBs and could concentrate on de daily walks that gave us great pleasure.Thank you England and Hadrians Wall path for your friendly reception and well mantained walking path.Thank you Maximum Adventures for your good service.We would love to come back in the future.

Jerry Kashinski
4 months ago

Maximum Adventure did a great job for us. With less than a month's notice, it set up an itinerary, lodging and luggage porterage for a walk from Carlisle to Newcastle, England along Hadrian's Wall. The lodging was fantastic, as was the itinerary and support during the walk. We'd definitely use Maximum Adventure again and would recommend them without reservation!

Fiona Reilly
5 months ago

I was part of a climb on 23/09, didn't think I would make ut, but I did. The descent was a different story.. I got jelly legs and lost my confidence. If it wasn't for James, my Sherpa would never have made it. Can't thank him enough, Will, met you briefly.Both of them were very knowledgeable, we had the most amazing views at the summit...the pain is still worth it and

Tom Graham
5 months ago

I walked the West Highland Way with my dad and brother. The organisation was excellent by Samantha. Itinerary and instructions were clear and all the bookings and luggage transfers went smoothly. As a result we were able to ensure the fantastic walk and not worry about anything. I would happily recommend Maximum Adventure to others.

Sarah Bracken
5 months ago

Absolutely brilliant guide - knowledgeable, interesting and humorous in addition to looking after our safety so well - making sure we ate and suggesting when to layer up! Would highly recommend!

Diana Straub
6 months ago

We just got home from our 8-days Hadrian's Wall hike and we just loved it!Everything was perfectly organized!We had great B&Bs and hotels with very friendly, welcoming and helpful staff. Our favorite was the Dacre House with Clare. But then again, all were great!The luggage was always at the day's destination, no matter how early we got to the accommodation.The description of how to get to the accommodations were clear and precise.The road map and the guide book were waiting for us as we got to the first B&B and were very helpful and interestingThanks, Maximum Adventure!

Kristin Hentschel
6 months ago

Praise for the West Highland Hike and the Maximum Adventure planners, esp. our planner Samantha. Great experience in every regard.

Simon Bradish
6 months ago

Booked for the 3 UK Peaks adventure, it was organised perfectly and everything when to plan. Accommodation was good, transport excellent, our guide (Patrick) brilliant, so cannot fault the trip and adventure. I personally expected too much from myself and was unable to fully summit as this adventure is not for beginners, I climbed Kilimanjaro in 2003 when I was 42 and twenty years later, although relatively fit, my endurance didn't last. So I did a half summit for Ben Nevis & Scafell, thanks to Patrick for letting go back down on my own, it was brilliant. With Snowdon, a half summit is tricky as you can't descend the way you go up, so I decided to do some hiking in the area while the rest of the group did the climb. I took a chance and went to the ticket office and managed to get a single return ticket up to the summit of Snowdon at 9am which returned down by 11.30am. I was hoping to see my group on top and spring a surprise but the weather was terrible. I highly recommend the trip but make sure you are fit enough otherwise as there is an emphasis on time, so a slow walk up is going to slow everyone down and really delay the trip. Have Fun, Simon Bradish

Why book with us

We know you have a choice of companies providing trips for your next adventures. Here are some of the reasons you should choose to travel with Maximum Adventure:

  • We are an established adventure travel business
  • We have been trading since 2002
  • We are financially protected in accordance with the 1992 travel regulation
  • Knowledgeable and available office staff
  • Qualified leaders and guides with ascents ranging from Ben Nevis to Mount Everest
  • All activities are risk assessed
  • We will provide you with the best service available
  • We are aware this is your holiday/your challenge and will do our best to make it an enjoyable and rewarding experience
  • We have many repeat clients stretching back over a number of years
20+ years adventure organisation experience
Full liability & financial protection
Leading provider of high quality adventure challenges
Great team of staff to support you

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