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We may be biased but we\u2019ve always thought the North Devon Coastline has cinematic appeal. The breathtakingly beautiful coastline deserves to be on the big screen. And luckily, we\u2019re not the only people to think this. On Friday 30th<\/sup> May 2025, The<\/em> Salt Path<\/em><\/a> will be released in UK cinemas. The movie recounts the true story of author Raynor Winn and her husband Moth who embark on a 630-mile trek along the South West Coast Path (SWCP), starting from Minehead in Somerset through Devon and Cornwall and on to Dorset, finishing at Poole Harbour.<\/p>\n The bestselling memoir was published in 2018 and now marks the moviemaking debut of four-time Tony Award\u2013winning theatre director Marianne Elliott.\u202f\u00a0The movie tells the story of how Raynor, played by Gillian Anderson, and Moth, played by Jason Isaacs, lose their home and livelihood after a legal battle over a bad business deal. Moth then receives a terminal diagnosis of a rare and incurable form of dementia. Homeless, practically penniless, and fuelled by a desire to find solace in nature, they gather up some basic supplies and head to the SWCP where an epic trek begins.<\/p>\n The South West Coast Path plays a starring role in the film and demonstrates exactly why it is so attractive to hikers and walkers looking to reconnect with the natural world. The dramatic cliffs, panoramic sea views, pretty ports, secluded coves and historic market towns that line England\u2019s southwest peninsula make it a popular destination for over 9 million outdoor adventurers from around the world who appreciate the stunning scenery every year.<\/p>\n Last year, the South West Coast Path was named \u2018the world\u2019s happiest walk\u2019 and at 630 miles long, it is the longest of the 20 National Trails in England and Wales. \u00a0Walking the entire path is an unforgettable and challenging journey, equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 4 times. However, it can also be walked in smaller sections and accessed from many points along the route.<\/p>\n Raynor Winn is an Ambassador of the South West Coast Path Association<\/a>, the charity that cares for, champions, and connects people to the SWCP. She said: “I’m so looking forward to people seeing the film adaptation of our story. The SWCP is more than just a path, it’s a transformative landscape, both challenging and healing, and available to all of us. I’m incredibly proud to be an ambassador for the charity, helping raise awareness of the support needed for the Path to remain open and accessible for everyone to enjoy.”<\/p>\n The movie will undoubtedly attract walkers inspired by the story of Raynor and Moth, and who are looking to trace the route they see on screen. The Salt Path will also shine a light on the transformative power of walking.<\/p>\n It\u2019s no secret that spending time outdoors in nature is great for our physical and mental health. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve heart health and boost mood. And just as Raynor and Moth showed in the movie, walking is free and therefore the most accessible physical activity, as it requires no special training or equipment.<\/p>\n The North Devon stretch of the SWCP weaves its way for over 90 miles from Combe Martin to Marsland, offering a spectacular journey through ever-changing landscapes. It follows the old railway line along the Taw Estuary, crosses the river at the historic port town of Bideford, and continues past the characterful fishing village of Appledore. As the path approaches its western edge, it reaches the dramatic headland of Hartland Point\u2014one of the most striking coastal features along the entire trail.<\/p>\n If you plan to follow in Raynor and Moth\u2019s footsteps and walk the 630-mile trek, The South West Coast Path Association, the organisation that maintains the SWCP, advises that a fast walker can complete the whole 630 miles in around 30 days. However, for those who prefer a more leisurely pace with time to stop to see some of the sights, it is recommended to allow between 7 and 8 weeks. The Association produces The Official Guide to the South West Coast Path and recommends a 52 day itinerary to walk the entire trail<\/a>. Although many walkers like to split the trek across multiple holidays.<\/p>\n If a cycling adventure is more up your street, there are sections of the SWCP that can be enjoyed by bike, such as the section between Braunton and Bideford here in North Devon. There are also lots of other great cycling routes in North Devon<\/a> that you could explore.<\/p>\n For those less keen on outdoor adventures but still want to take in the breathtaking scenery that the SWCP offers, a road trip along the Southwest 660<\/a> will provide an unforgettable experience. This driving tour takes you through Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, allowing you to enjoy the spirit of freedom and adventure.<\/p>\n Whether you travel the southwest peninsula on foot, by bike or by car, you will undoubtedly need somewhere to stay. In The Salt Path<\/em>, artistic licence allows Raynor and Moth to camp along The South West Coast Path, but there is actually no public right to do this. However, for those exploring the Path in North Devon, The Carlton, one of the best hotels in North Devon<\/a>, serves as a comfortable and convenient stopover for weary travellers.<\/p>\n Book your stay at The Carlton today<\/a>\u00a0or get in touch\u00a0to find out more about staying with us as you explore the South West Coast Path on eliot@ilfracombecarlton.co.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\n If you have any questions, please call us on 01271 862446.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" We may be biased but we\u2019ve always thought the North Devon Coastline has cinematic appeal. The breathtakingly beautiful coastline deserves to be on the big screen. And luckily, we\u2019re not the only people to think this. On Friday 30th May 2025, The Salt Path will be released in UK cinemas. The movie recounts the true […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":20,"featured_media":285510,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"The South West Coast Path Features in The Salt Path Movie<\/h2>\n
![\"Tunnels](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/tunnels-beach-becky-craven.jpg\")
<\/p>\nHow Long is the South West Coast Path?<\/h2>\n
Benefits of Walking the South West Coast Path<\/h2>\n
South West Coast Path Association Recommendations<\/h2>\n
![\"Peninsula](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Devon-drone-photographer-Becky-Craven-2584-2.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCan You Cycle the South West Coast Path?<\/h2>\n
![\"Aerial](\"http:\/\/www.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Devon-drone-photographer-Becky-Craven-11.jpg\")
<\/p>\nAccommodation Along the South West Coast Path<\/h2>\n
Morte Point, Mortehoe Village<\/span><\/h1>\r\nEnjoy a challenging walk through a rare spot of coastal heathland which provides the wonderful backdrop for a wealth of wild flowers and wildlife. \u00a0You might even be lucky enough to spot some of our infamous sealife including dolphins and seals. This wonderful dog walk will take you out into the fresh country air and really give you an opportunity to get the blood pumping with steep ascents, steps and descents to challenge you along the way. \u00a0Adventurers will be rewarded with the discovery of some hidden beaches along the way and for those who enjoy a bit of history, discover why Morte Point has been responsible for many a shipwreck throughout the centuries.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Saunton Sands<\/span><\/h1>\r\nA short drive or long walk along the South West Coast Path and you arrive at stunning Saunton Sands. \u00a0This particular beach is a favourite for dog walks\u00a0as it welcomes dogs year round. Saunton Sands employs\u00a0easy to follow zoning sections where just the car park and first 5 minutes of your stroll requires that your dog is kept on the lead. \u00a0From here you have the next 3.5 miles of golden sands to explore and enjoy with your four legged friend.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Hillsborough Nature Reserve<\/span><\/h1>\r\nKnown to the locals as 'the sleeping elephant', Hillsborough Nature Reserve offers a short but testing walk for you and your dog. \u00a0This dog walk takes you past beaches which are also dog friendly so offers plenty of opportunity for a run and a dip in the sea for both of you - especially welcome during those warm summer months! The views provided by this dog walk are glorious - a bird's eye view of Ilfracombe, out to Lundy Island and even as far as the South Wales coast. \u00a0There is so much for nature lovers to enjoy along the way too with an array of wildlife and their habitats to be seen.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
Baggy Point<\/span><\/h1>\r\nAs well as providing a dog friendly route, Baggy Point is also an easy access route which is especially important in opening up our beautiful countryside walks to as many people as possible. \u00a0Considered an easy route, Baggy Point lends itself to those pups who cannot manage a challenging route but still enjoy the great outdoors. \u00a0It is also considered equally good for young children. Baggy Point might be a shorter, easier dog walk than others on our list, but nonetheless it delivers in breathtaking sights. \u00a0The views along the way extend along the coast and out to sea\u00a0and you can also enjoy sightings of our diverse wildlife and sealife - there's plenty to keep everyone captivated along the way.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n
The South West Coast Path<\/span><\/h1>\r\nThe Carlton Hotel is delightfully situated in Ilfracombe town centre where you can begin dog walks\u00a0in any direction to end up on the beautiful South West Coast Path. \u00a0Here we have miles and miles of stunning countryside and coastal walks to explore and discover your very own favourite spot. Whilst we have only covered our top 5 dog walks\u00a0in this blog, there are of course so many dog walks here to enjoy and far too many to list . \u00a0The South West Coast Path website<\/a> is an excellent place to begin to plan your local dog walks when you visit us here in Ilfracombe.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Carlton Hotel is a dog friendly hotel which welcomes well behaved humans and their four legged friends. \u00a0Our aim is to make your break as pleasurable for your dog as it is for you. \u00a0Inform us when you book<\/a> and we will endevour to ensure all your needs are met, including bowls and dog beds in your room. We look forward to welcoming you and your dog to The Carlton Hotel.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column][plethora_button button_text=\"Book your dog friendly stay here\" button_link=\"url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ilfracombecarlton.co.uk%2Fbook%2F|||\" button_size=\"btn-lg\" button_style=\"btn-primary\" button_align=\"text-center\" button_with_icon=\"0\"][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_padding_top=\"padding_top_none\" row_padding_bottom=\"padding_bottom_none\"][vc_column width=\"1\/4\"][\/vc_column][vc_column width=\"3\/4\"][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]","_et_gb_content_width":"","wds_primary_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[51],"tags":[149,216,735,721,190,153],"class_list":["post-285496","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-area","tag-cycling","tag-hiking","tag-salt-path","tag-south-west-660","tag-south-west-coast-path","tag-walking"],"yoast_head":"\n