Coast route crowned Britain's favourite path

A route between north Cornwall and Devon has been named Britain's favourite path for 2025.

Chosen by walking charity the Ramblers after a public vote which saw 1,000 paths nominated, the Bude to Westward Ho! route has been crowned the nation's favourite.

The winning stretch is part of the 630-mile (1,015km) long South West Coast Path, which became England's longest National Trail in 1973.

Jonathan Jones, who nominated the path, said: "I take every chance I get to walk along coastal paths and just enjoy the sounds of the sea."

Mr Jones said he first visited the path 15 years ago, and it left a lasting impression.

"It was during a time of my life when things were changing a lot. Walking this path gave me a clarity of mind.

"Even though my legs were heavy, the path made me feel a lot lighter, cleaner and clearer – the emotional baggage just lifted away," he added.

A section of the West Highland Way near Loch Lomond in Scotland was nominated by Robert Marshall and came a close second.

Mr Jones will receive £200 worth of Cotswold Outdoor vouchers, while the seven fellow finalists will each receive a £50 voucher.

Lucy Sutton, marketing director at Cotswold Outdoor, said: "Congratulations to Jonathan Jones for winning Britain's Favourite Path 2025; so well deserved.

"Whilst being on the judging panel, it was brilliant to see all the breathtaking paths captured throughout England, Scotland and Wales."

Jack Cornish from the Ramblers, said: "I can see why it’s won.

"I've walked it myself and it is a beautiful path.

"It is one of the jewels of the crown of the paths we have got in Britain."

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