England’s Atlantic Highway (a rugged southwest coast path)
The Wild Atlantic Way is England’s answer to Ireland’s Atlantic Coast Path (the longest in the world which runs from County Donegal to County Cork). This is much shorter, just 100 miles along the coast of Devon and Cornwall – from Barnstaple to Newquay.
The driving route is one of England’s most dangerous roads due to narrow stretches, hazardous conditions and accidents, due to speeding drivers on tight bends and hills (Porlock is one of the steepest A-roads in England).
So just pick one of the ‘safe stops’ rather than do the whole route.
Some of the well-known stops include:
- The pretty town of Padstow (this really is a gem!)
- Port Isaac (the setting for TV series Doc Martin)
- Bude (a popular Cornish seaside town)
- Bedruthan Steps (stunning coastal rock formations)
Follow the Countryside Code and keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms (and toxic plants/trees) and on leads near birds, barnyard friends and wild ponies. Keep away from nesting birds and never walk on sand dunes. Learn how to keep dogs safe by the seaside (check beach bans before travel).
How to upright an overturned sheep
If when out walking you see a sheep on its back (due to pregnancy or rain-soaked wool), just firmly right it back (or it will die) then stay with it, until the rain has drained off.
