At the beginning - the South West Coast Path

Another birthday, another stretch of the South West Coast Path.

We drove down to Minehead, where the South West Coast Path starts, arriving late afternoon we booked a campsite online through Park4Night. The recent reviews were great. As we followed the instructions, driving out of the town, we were a little worried it was going to be an urban site, but soon we started climbing and found ourselves on a little country road high up above Minehead. The camp site having fantastic views back over the bay. It was perfect. Moor Wood Campsite. As well as the views, it was spacious. quiet, clean and really friendly. Dogs were welcome on the lead and just over the fence was a beautiful woodland walk to give them a run.

 

After a good night's sleep we had breakfast looking down over Minehead and the bay, then gathered our things together to set off to walk. The plan was to leave the van there, walk two days and use the small hike tent on the second night.

Finally we were ready and we set off on the cool woodland path.

Day one
Minehead to Porlock Weir
Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km)
Time: 4–6 hours depending on pace and stops. We had quite a few picnic stops.
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep climbs and descents)
Highlights: Fantastic coastal views, Exmoor woodlands, marshland, historic landmarks and wildlife

Soon we were out of the woods and up on the moorland above the rugged coastline with glimpses of the sea and cobbled coves far below.

After a long day walking and many picnic stops, finishing off with 3 miles over marshland we arrived at a picturesque harbour village with a pub.

We found our wonderfully simple camp site on Pitchup - Porlock Weir Campsite. A field, a view, running water and a compost loo. You might just be able to spot our little green tent below along with the loo hut. Behind, the white building is Exmoor Adventures.

Pitching our tent before visiting the (dog friendly) Ship Inn was a very good idea. We had some refreshment then headed back to camp for food.

Basil was first to bed. We all had a good nights sleep and a lovely breakfast looking out to sea.

Day two
Porlock Weir to Lynton
Distance: 12.5 miles (20 km)
Time: 6–8 hours depending on pace
Difficulty: Challenging (steep ascents, remote stretches)
Highlights: Wooded valleys, dramatic cliffs, Glenthorne Estate, Valley of Rocks

This stretch of the South West Coast Path is rugged, remote, and incredibly rewarding. We passed through ancient woodlands, and walked on top of the towering cliffs. Constant ups and downs with a well-trodden path, but narrow and exposed in places. The path is all well-marked with the acorn symbol.

We left Porlock Weir, initially along a pebble beach, then climbing up into woodland. Cool and shady, but watch out for Tiks at this time of year. We both pulled our socks up high and did regular checks. Basil was up to date with his treatment too.

We made sure we had plenty of water and snacks and treated ourselves to large slices of rocky road in Porlock Weir (for the journey) – there are no shops or cafés between Porlock Weir and Lynton.

Arriving in Lynton we relaxed in the friendly pub and had a large Sunday roast.

What we packed:
- After our last trip I made sure to have a couple of 20 and 50p coins for loos
- Snacks. Of course. Lots. 
- Dog food, water and snacks
- Solo Thermal PACMAT for the dog
- Family PACMAT for us 
- Small, light tent 
- Lightweight sleeping mat and bag
- Waterproofs
- Head torch
- Spare batteries for torch and phones
- Small stove, gas and some simple food. Two bowls, sporks and cups
- Coffee
- Walking poles. We were both very thankful for these
- Sun hat, sun cream, sun glasses and a bandana
- Loo roll
- Extra layers and a change of clothes (all lightweight)
- Buff to use as a hat incase it got cold at night
- And a puffa with a stuff bag - only used as a pillow, but you never know.

All packed into 55 litre rucksacks from Outdoor People