“EVEN TODAY'S MAPPING SOFTWARE CAN UNDERESTIMATE THE TIME IT TAKES TO NAVIGATE RUGGED COASTLINE.”
R Durdle Door in Dorset.
the UK is quite cold throughout early summer, not reaching its ‘warmest’ temperatures until around September time, and if the sun is feeling shy you’ll want to dry off pretty quick and get back into your warm clothes.
Emergency kit
What to bring? Aside from a first aid kit, it’s a good idea to bring one or more of the following: spare compass, map, torch and batteries, and also bring a bivvy bag or group shelter in case of emergencies.
WHERE’S THE COAST?
Fortunately, we’re on an island, so there’s miles of coastline to explore. But now that you know what you’re doing (hopefully) here’s a few of the UK’s best coasts to walk:
Jurassic Coast Perfect sandcastle building beaches
and awe-inspiring views, the Jurassic Coast is great for a day out or a longer stretching of the legs. Home to iconic cliffs and the infamous Durdle Door – a natural limestone sea arch – there’s plenty to see and do along the 95 miles of World Heritage Site coastline stretching from East Devon into Dorset.
Pembrokeshire
The eagle-eyed will have spotted a mention of this dramatic and varied coastline already, but we wanted to make sure you didn’t miss out! Pembrokeshire has miles of beautiful coast to walk, from award-winning beaches like Barafundle Bay to the incredible landscape of St David’s Peninsula, and it can be done in sections or separately, catering for all abilities.
Sandwood Bay It’s said that you don’t travel to Sandwood Bay, you make a pilgrimage
there. And with its remoteness up in the Northern Highlands, it’s not a destination most travel to on a whim! Owned and managed by the John Muir Trust, the golden sand and dunes of Sandwood Bay make for a stunning, picturesque view – some argue it’s the most beautiful beach in Britain. Couple this with rocky cliffs, a giant sea stack – the Am Buachaille – plus the chance to spot dolphins or other marine mammals, and you’ll find yourself pouring your wallet’s contents into the John Muir Trust donation box in the car park on your return.
GET THE SKILLS!
Want to take groups on day walks along the coast? One option is to take the Lowland Leader award from Mountain Training.
www.mountain-training.org
GET THE GUIDES AT THE BMC SHOP
Inspirational and informative, the BMC Shop stocks a range of guides for walks along the UK’s coastline to enhance your journey. And the best bit? BMC members get a 10% discount.
www.shop.thebmc.co.uk
SUMMIT#90 | SUMMER 2018 | 63
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.
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