England's Coastal Journey: From Bamburgh to the Scottish Border, including Holy Island, under the Reign of King Charles III
New Coastal Trail Opens: King Charles III England Coast Path
The King Charles III England Coast Path, a new national trail, has been officially opened and completed between Bamburgh and the Scottish Border. The route, which adds 38 miles (61 km) of coastline path, was approved by the Secretary of State in 2021 and inaugurated in August 2025, completing the route along Northumberland’s coast.
A Scenic Journey Through Northumberland
The path begins at the historic village of Bamburgh, known for its castle and coastal views. From here, the trail heads north along the rugged Northumberland coastline, passing through or near several small coastal villages and notable natural landmarks, including dunes, cliffs, and beaches characteristic of Northumberland’s wild coast.
One of the key locations along the route is Holy Island (Lindisfarne), a tidal island famous for its medieval priory and unique coastal ecosystem. The path allows walkers to explore this heritage site as part of the coastal journey, as it includes a detour to Holy Island, connected at low tide by the causeway.
The trail showcases scenic and historic views as it continues northward, passing near Bamburgh Castle and St. Abbs Head. The path finally reaches the England-Scotland boundary just north of Berwick-upon-Tweed, marking the northern terminus of the England Coast Path section.
Access to the Coastline
The establishment of coastal access rights along this 38-mile stretch of coast by order of the Secretary of State has made the King Charles III England Coast Path route and the adjoining coastal margin accessible to the public. The maps in Natural England’s original report provide a detailed view of the route, showing the coastline, access points, and specific sections open to the public.
The official Natural England map titled "King Charles III England Coast Path National Trail - Bamburgh to the Scottish Border (including Holy Island)" offers detailed coverage of the route. The Bamburgh to Scottish Border stretch was one of the final segments to be opened, officially inaugurated in August 2025.
The King Charles III England Coast Path is a section of the coastline that is now open to the public due to the implementation of coastal access rights. The route forms part of a longer, continuous England Coast Path stretching approximately 2,700 miles from the Scottish border down to the south coast of England, managed by Natural England.
Walkers can now enjoy the scenic beauty of Northumberland’s coastline, from Bamburgh to the Scottish Border, as the King Charles III England Coast Path is now open for all to explore.
