New sections of North Devon coast path with a royal connection set to open

New sections of the coast path have been opened in North Devon under a royal banner.

Works carried out at Croyde and in Appledore means the entire King Charles III England Coast Path around the county’s coasts is now open.

The path with the King’s name is the overarching national coastal path and once completed it will be the longest managed coastal walking route in the world.

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In Devon, the paths adopt and in places improve the existing South West Coast Path, which is part of the ‘King’s trail’ or KCIIIECP but will continue to bear its own name.

The recent improvement works have added a new crossing of the B3231 at Down End near Croyde, which means people no longer have to walk along the road.

Above: The restoration of the causeway across Croyde beach, that is part of the coast path. Credit: Devon County Council

A new route across the headland taking users off the road has been created and it includes the path, road crossing and new Devon hedge bank. The section coming off the headland towards the road won’t be fully completed until early January but a temporary route is in place.

At Watertown in Appledore, a new short section of off-road, traffic free path above the high tide line is being created, improving connectivity between Appledore and Northam Burrows.

The improvement works have been completed by Devon County Council with the support of the South West Coast Path Association.

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Lorna Sherriff, national trail officer for the South West Coast Path Association said: “It’s wonderful to see the investment along the Coast Path around Devon. These works have enhanced the trail, and the new crossing of the B3231 at Down End near Croyde is an improvement, which the charity has been championing to ensure the safety of walkers in this area.

“It’s great to have this opened before the Christmas period so people can get out, connect with nature, and enjoy the improved Coast Path route.”

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, cabinet member for climate change and biodiversity, added: “The King Charles III England Coast Path is a wonderful addition to the National Trails family.

“In addition to the significant contribution to health and wellbeing, the coast path provides for and supports green infrastructure within and between Devon’s protected landscapes, enabling our communities and visitors to sensitively enjoy our amazing coastline.”

You can plan your walk on the KCIIIECP by visiting the National Trails website. Up-to-date information on the South West Coast Path National Trail and KCIIIECP is available at https://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB