Widemouth to Crackington Haven: Walk the South West Coast Path
Widemouth to Crackington Haven: Walk the South West Coast Path
Distance: 8.2 miles
Severity: Severe
Time it took us: 4hrs
The hike from Widemouth Bay to Crackington Haven is a brute with high cliffs, rugged coastline and steep and deep valleys, but gratifies with some superb viewpoints along its length.
It’s a remote stretch we’ve tackled countless times as the Path is easily accessible from Gwelmors front doorstep, with a regular bus service to bring walkers back home again. Joining the path at Widemouth Bay we head south and follow the low cliff for a short distance before diverting inland slightly at Wanson Mouth. Turning right, the Path climbs steeply to Penhalt Cliff, where gaps in the hedge provide the perfect excuse for me to pause and catch my breath while soaking in the sensational views back over Widemouth’s wonderful bay. Heading out of the cliff-top car park across a field, the rugged and layered rock formations of Millook come into view along the shoreline. A very steep descent leads down to Millook Haven with its shingle beach and towering cliffs with their zig zag folds which, apparently, are of huge geological interest around the world. There’s also a tiny little holiday cottage here – possibly the cutest seaside retreat ever.
The Path then climbs back out again for a short distance before turning right at the cliff top at Raven’s Beak. It then climbs steadily to Dizzard Point and Chipman Point. A further two deep and steep valleys follow which get the heart pumping big time before yet more stunning views at Castle Point. Another steep valley crossing takes us on through to Pencannow Point where Crackington Haven comes into view. From here, the path is easy as it steadily descends into this gorgeous hamlet, bringing with it that much craved after pint – or two - at the Coombe Barton Inn whilst watching the sun begin to drop over this gorgeous cove.
