If you’re after a walk that gives you a perfect mix of woodland peace, open heath, and stunning sea views without going too far from Minehead, the Greenaleigh Farm circular walk is a gem. This is one of those “just enough challenge, plenty of reward” walks — great whether you’re after a gentle afternoon outdoors, walking with family, or doing a circular walk Minehead locals will love.
Photo by Neville Stanikk
Route Overview
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Start / Finish: Quay West Car Park, Minehead (TA24 5UN)
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Distance: ~ 3.4 miles (≈ 5.5 km)
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Difficulty: Moderate — a comfortable mix of tarmac, woodland paths, some up & downhill, steps, and open heath.
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What to Look Out For: Historic woodland, wildlife, open heath with sweeping vistas over the Bristol Channel, views across to Exmoor, and optionally some interesting geology (Hangman Sandstone).
- Indepth directions: South West Coastal Path Website Walk 214
Photo by Shaun Davey
Step-by-Step Directions
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Begin at Quay West Car Park in Minehead, near the lifeboat station.
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Leave the car park and head along the road away from the town, toward the roundabout.
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From the roundabout, pick up the path that follows the coastline through Culver Cliff Green — enjoy sea-views and fresh air.
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When the coastal path begins to climb, stay on the South West Coast Path heading up through woodland toward Greenaleigh Farm; you’ll get some steeper steps here.
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On reaching the boundary of Greenaleigh Farm, follow the path up toward the top of North Hill and into open heathland. The land opens up here, with good visibility of the sea and inland hills.
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After reaching the high point across heath, turn off the coast path at the bridleway signed toward Minehead; this leads you downhill, through woods.
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As you approach back toward town, you’ll cross Beacon Road, use some steps, and follow paths that lead you back down to the quay/lifeboat station.
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Finish back at Quay West Car Park where you began.
What to Know Before You Go
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Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or boots advised (woodland paths and some steps can be slippery or muddy after rain).
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Dogs: Welcome. Keep under control in woods / near farms / where livestock may be present.
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Best Season: Spring through autumn gives the best underfoot conditions and longer daylight; early morning or quieter weekdays are lovely for fewer people.
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Refreshments & Facilities: Minehead has cafés/shops near the start/end. There are no major refreshment stops along the walk itself. Carry water & snacks.
Why This Walk is a Gem
This circular walk Minehead offers a striking contrast in scenery: from sea & coastal vistas, through shady woodland, up to open heath with wide skies, all within a relatively short route. The optional geological features like Hangman Sandstone add something extra for those curious about the land under their feet. It’s a walk that feels like you’ve “got away” without being remote — ideal for folks who love Exmoor’s edges.
Find a property nearby in Minehead
Check out this charming holiday cottage – Seagulls Rest, Minehead. It is right at the start of this walk!
FAQ
There are several gentle and accessible walks around Minehead. The promenade along the seafront, around the harbour to Culvercliffe, is paved and nearly level, suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Blenheim Gardens also offers pretty paths and a relaxed stroll.
The Greenaleigh Farm circular walk is about 3.4 miles (5.5 km)
t’s graded Moderate. You’ll cross pavement/tarmac, woodland paths, and some ascent and descent. The woodland climb and open heath sections require a bit more energy than an easy promenade walk.
You’ll get a mix: a gentle climb through historic woodland rich in wildlife, views over the Bristol Channel, sweeping vistas to Exmoor, and in clear weather you can see quite far. There’s also an optional detour to see a good example of Hangman Sandstone.
Yes — dogs are welcome. There are no specific restrictions mentioned on the SWCP page for this walk. However, as always, keep dogs under control especially in woodland parts, near livestock, and where the terrain is steep or more exposed.
Compared with very easy walks like the Minehead Seafront promenade (which is flatter, easier underfoot, good for pushchairs or mobility issues) this walk has more varied terrain, moderate climbs, and more remote feel in parts. It’s more rewarding for those who want a bit more than a seaside stroll but not as strenuous as long coastal cliff walks or full SWCP sections. For example, the Minehead Seafront walk is ~2.6 miles and very level.