Setting Out: From Cornwall to the Start of the South West Coast Path (SWCP)

Today marked a big moment—I officially left Cornwall to begin my journey toward the start of the South West Coast Path (SWCP) in Minehead. The travel itself was a mini adventure: a train from Newquay to Par, another to Taunton, and then a bus from Taunton station to Minehead. But before heading all the way to Taunton, I made a slight detour to Exeter—to see my partner and share a few last precious moments before the walk began.

We stayed two nights in an incredible apartment overlooking Cathedral Green. As someone who spent many childhood years visiting Exeter, the Cathedral was always a familiar landmark. To be staying somewhere so beautiful, so close to that memory, and with someone special, felt like the perfect way to enjoy a little luxury before the long road ahead.

The accommodation was beautiful, lots of natural light, plenty of space, all the modern facilities and a place you could spend the day relaxing if you wanted. If you want to book a stay at Cathedral View you can do so by clicking here.

The morning of leaving, I got to work repacking my backpack, trying to make the best use of space. I managed to squeeze in some leftover food from our stay, along with a few extras for the journey. Yes—I even brought a drone. Whether that turns out to be a brilliant idea or a burden, only time will tell.

From Exeter, I caught a short (but very loud) train ride to Taunton—complete with what must’ve been the loudest hen party in existence—then jumped on a scenic hour-long bus journey to Minehead. The views were stunning, with rolling countryside and that kind of peaceful stillness you don’t often find. Even the locals on the bus couldn’t help but glance out the window at times.

Arriving in Minehead, I was met with glorious weather and a lively town centre buzzing with tourists. With my heavy backpack in tow, I wandered the main street, soaking up the energy and heading straight for the beach. I lingered there for a while, grounding myself and scoping out the official start point of the SWCP to make sure I knew where to return.

I’d booked two nights at Glendower House B&B, which cost £130 including breakfast. From the moment I arrived, the experience was fantastic. Katrina, who greeted me, was warm and welcoming—and I doubt it took her long to guess what I was planning, given the enormous backpack on my shoulders. The room was bright, cosy, and perfectly located—a short stroll from the town centre.

Katrina and Peter, the hosts, couldn’t have been more accommodating. Complimentary drinks, thoughtful touches, and a breakfast that was nothing short of perfect—from hot cooked options to continental delights, including freshly baked warm bread. If you’re planning to tackle the SWCP or just want a peaceful stay in Minehead, I can’t recommend this place enough. You can book through booking.com by clicking here if interested.

I spent Wednesday evening and Thursday working as planned (this is something I’ll be doing weekly). On my final morning, I met Chloe, another guest at the B&B who was about to begin some training locally. We had a lovely chat, and she offered some final words of encouragement—support I hadn’t realized I needed, but deeply appreciated.

After another hearty breakfast, I packed my bag for the road. I stopped by a nearby shop to pick up some salted peanuts, sun cream, and a few other essentials. As I sat in the store sorting my pack, a woman nearby watched me hoist it onto my back in one swoop. “Bit heavy,” I said with a smile. She laughed and replied, “I believe you.”

From there, I made my way back to the beach and began to follow the coastline until I reached the official SWCP starting monument. The steel sculpture on the promenade marks both the beginning and end of the 630-mile path. Created by Owen Cunningham from a design by A-level student Sarah Ward, it features hands gripping a map—symbolic, striking, and deeply meaningful.

I paused here for a moment, snapped a photo, and stood quietly with the weight of what lies ahead settling in. This is it. The start of something massive.

A large marking on the ground signified the beginning of this long, challenging journey. And with that—I was ready to take my first step.