The last stretch of King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) in Northumberland has officially opened today (23 August).
While the existing Northumberland Coast Path was established 17 years ago, the new stretch of KCIIIECP connects Bamburgh with the Scottish border, completing a continuous path between Bridlington in the East Riding of Yorkshire and the Scottish border, some 245 miles. It is the latest part of the 2,700 mile (4345km) national trail to be opened and creates the longest section open to the public so far.
The route along Northumberland's coast is known for its stunning beaches, often backed by rolling dunes, internationally important inter-tidal mudflats and geological diversity.
The easy-to-follow walking trail connects with the existing open trail at Bamburgh and will delight walkers by passing through Budle Bay, Holy Island and Berwick-upon-Tweed. The King Charles III England Coast Path reaches Scotland at Marshall Meadows north of Berwick-upon-Tweed, England’s northernmost town.
Patrick Norris, Chair of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership (NCAONB) commented:
"While we’re lucky enough to have an established coastal walking route here – the Northumberland Coast Path – the NCAONB Partnership is delighted at the enhanced infrastructure and boost to local economy this new section of the KCIII England Coast Path is sure to bring.
We’re looking forward to partnering with Northumberland County Council and Natural England to continue developing access to the path for people who live locally and visitors to the area. Our Coast Care volunteer Path Wardens will be walking parts of the route regularly too, to help maintain the good condition of the path."
As a national trail, the creation of the King Charles III England Coast Path on this stretch has improved the popular Northumberland coast path route with better signage and easier access, helping more visitors to enjoy the beauty, wildlife and heritage of the Northumberland coast.
The King Charles III England Coast Path will be the country’s longest National Trail connecting communities across the country. It will encourage more people to visit the coast and learn about the importance of our coastal environments. The trail is opening in sections around the coast and will be fully walkable by the end of 2024.
