The 80 Miles in 8 Days Challenge Walk has once again proved a resounding success, with 30 determined walkers covering a combined total of over 820 miles along Somerset’s stunning coastline.
Now in its 3rd year, the challenge saw 2 participants make event history. Brothers Richard and Andrew Taylor completed the full challenge, with Andrew becoming the first walker to finish all 80 miles in 8 consecutive days, while Richard became the first participant to complete the challenge in 2 consecutive years.
Following the route of the King Charles III England Coast Path, the nation’s newest National Trail, the walk showcases the remarkable diversity of Somerset’s coastline. Participants experience everything from rugged moorland and rolling farmland to charming coastal towns and villages, expansive beaches, and estuaries that are internationally important for the birds that overwinter on Somerset’s shores.
The walk began on 19 September at County Gate, on the Devon border, and concluded 8 days later at Brean Down on the edge of the Mendip Hills. Along the way, walkers travelled through some of the county’s most celebrated landscapes, including Exmoor National Park, the Quantock Hills National Landscape and the Somerset Wetlands National Nature Reserve, as well as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) recognised for their wildlife, geology and fossil heritage.
Speaking on behalf of the Somerset Trail Partnership for the King Charles III England Coast Path, Isobel Pring, said:
Congratulations to Richard and Andrew on their fantastic achievement. Completing the challenge in this timescale is not easy.
The first 2 days include demanding climbs, while the final ascent of Brean Down requires a last burst of energy. Their determination and commitment have been impressive.
Feedback from walkers has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants praising the spectacular coastal scenery, the supportive group atmosphere and the organisation throughout the challenge, highlighting the convenience of the minibus transport, which removed the logistical challenges of a linear coast path walk.
Walkers described the route as “a wonderful coastline”, commenting on the variety of scenery. While participants acknowledged that the walk was demanding, they agreed that the achievement and enjoyment made the effort worthwhile.
Describing the full 8-day challenge as “amazing value” one walker said:
I would happily do it again.
Another commented:
I didn’t know that I could do that. It is amazing what you can do when you try.
Isobel added:
The Somerset coast is incredibly diverse which means every day offers a distinct experience. The Challenge Walk is a fantastic way to get outside and feel the health benefits that being on the coast offers, whether you join for all 8 days or just 1.
Once again, we were fortunate to enjoy excellent weather and the company of a wonderful group of walkers.
Organised by the Somerset Trail Partnership for the King Charles III England Coast Path with support from Exmoor National Park, the Somerset Coast Challenge Walk is a series of guided linear walks with transport provided to make participation as straightforward as possible.
Plans are now underway for the 4th 80 Miles in 8 Days Challenge Walk in 2027 and dates will be announced soon.
For more information about the Challenge Walk and getting out and about on the Somerset coast, visit somersetcoastwalking.co.uk.
