On 19 March 2026, King Charles III inaugurated the England Coast Path, the longest managed coastal path in the world. As part of the ceremony, King Charles recently walked two kilometres along the East Sussex coast, where he enjoyed views of the iconic Seven Sisters. But this is just one tiny stretch of the 4,328 km (2,700-mile) route.

May marks the UK’s National Walking Month, so why not follow in His Majesty’s footsteps and get out in the Great British wilderness to enjoy some fresh air and breathtaking scenery?

Here are five National Trails you might choose this month.

1. South Downs Way

• From: Winchester to Eastbourne
• Distance: 160 km (100 miles)

We wrote about our local National Trail, the South Downs Way, back in October, but National Walking Month could provide the perfect excuse to take the plunge if you’ve ever been tempted to give the full 160-km (100-mile) route a try.

From chalk escarpments to ancient woodland, wildlife, human history, and culture, there’s plenty to see and enjoy.

2. South West Coast Path

• From: Minehead to Poole

• Distance: 1,010 km (630 miles)

Formerly England’s longest waymarked footpath (before the opening of the King Charles III England Coast Path), the South West Coast Path stretches along the north coast of Devon and Cornwall, past Land’s End, and along the south coast of Cornwall and Devonshire to Dorset. It also incorporates the 95 miles between Exmouth and Studland, known as the “Jurassic Coast”.

The route is normally tackled from north to south, to overcome the challenging Cornish sections first, but as with all these National Trails, you can pick and choose the sections that appeal to you or tackle the whole route over weeks, months, or even years.

3. North Downs Way

• From: Farnham to Dover

• Distance: 246 kilometres (153 miles)

The North Downs Way might be high on the list for history buffs. It roughly tracks the old Pilgrim’s Way from Winchester to Canterbury, though the latter is unmarked and generally at a lower altitude, below the main North Downs ridge.

The section from Canterbury to Dover then traces the route, in 990 AD, of Archbishop Sigeric, who passed this way en route to Rome. This section is designated a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe.

Alongside fascinating history, you’ll find panoramic views over the Surrey Hills and the Kent Downs and finish at the white cliffs of Dover.

4. Norfolk Coast Path

• From: Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea

• Distance: 135 kilometres (84 miles)

Another coastal path to consider for a May weekend getaway or a summer staycation, this largely flat route is great for beginners. Tackle the whole route, and you’ll pass through the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), encompassing pine woodlands, salt marshes, and seaside towns.

There’s also wildlife aplenty, most notably at Blakeney Point, home to England’s largest seal colony.

5. Offa’s Dyke Path

• From: Chepstow to Prestatyn
• Distance: 284 kilometres (177 miles)

Slightly further afield, the Offa’s Dyke Path, named for the 8th-century king, Offa of Mercia, is a coast-to-coast route that broadly tracks the England-Wales border.

Depending on the stretch you choose to walk, you’ll enjoy views of the Severn Estuary, Dee Valley, Shropshire Hills, or Wye Valley. The route also passes through the Black Mountains on the eastern edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.

At the southern end of the National Trail, Hay-on-Wye, Chepstow, and Monmouth are all good starting points for exploring the trail further.

Get in touch

National Walking Month is the perfect opportunity to get out into nature and enjoy the fresh air, which can be beneficial for your physical and mental health. And remember, once you’re back from your walk – whether a local stroll or a National Trail challenge – we’re on hand to walk you through any financial queries or questions you have, so be sure to get in touch.

Please contact us if you have any questions. de Mellow’s expert financial planners are on hand to help.

SJP Approved 29/04/2026