King Charles III has formally inaugurated an extraordinary new walking route that traces the entire coastline of England.
Stretching an impressive 4,000 km, it is recognised as the longest managed coastal footpath in the world. Known as the King Charles III England Coast Path, it represents a landmark achievement in public access and outdoor recreation.
For the first time, walkers are able to follow a continuous, clearly signposted trail encircling England’s entire shoreline. This uninterrupted route opens up the coast in a way never previously possible, giving both seasoned hikers and casual walkers the chance to experience the country’s diverse coastal environments in full.
The path passes through a remarkable range of landscapes, including sweeping salt marshes, golden sandy beaches, towering cliffs, undulating dunes and charming seaside towns rich in history.
Each section offers its own distinct character, ensuring a varied and engaging journey throughout. Among the highlights are the dramatic white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters in East Sussex, now part of a protected nature reserve established by Natural England.
The King officially opened both the coast path and the reserve at a ceremony hosted by the South Downs National Park Authority, later walking a section of the trail. Although much of the route previously existed in fragmented form, over 1,600 km of new pathways have been created, with many others upgraded to improve accessibility.
First proposed during Gordon Brown’s government, the project has taken 18 years to reach this stage. With around 80 per cent now complete and full completion expected soon, the path offers a unique opportunity to explore England’s coastline continuously and at one’s own pace.