South West 660

What is The South West 660?

The South West 660 is a circular route tracing the peninsula's rugged edges through Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. You will discover the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, wild and untamed Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, pristine beaches, hidden coves, and towering granite cliffs together with bustling harbour towns, remote lighthouses, and crystal-clear waters that rival the Mediterranean. There are countless things to do and adventures to experience.

Gylly Beach

South West 660 Route

As someone who's just completed the incredible South West 660 route, I can't wait to share my firsthand experience of this breathtaking coastal journey. After spending weeks exploring every corner of this spectacular route, I've put together this comprehensive guide to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure.

• Stage 1: Poole to Lyme Regis - The Jurassic Coast Wonder - During this stretch, I was absolutely blown away by the dramatic limestone cliffs and prehistoric treasures of the Jurassic Coast, the iconic Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove - I spent a full morning exploring these natural wonders. Weymouth offered some of the best seafood I've ever tasted, and the fossil hunting opportunities around Charmouth Beach were truly exceptional.
• Stage 2: Lyme Regis to Plymouth - The South Devon Coastal Paradise - I discovered the vibrant seaside towns of Torquay and Paignton. The highlight was definitely kayaking around Dartmouth's historic harbour, followed by a steam train journey along the Dartmouth to Paignton railway. 
• Stage 3: St Austell to The Helford Estuary - Embark on an unforgettable journey through Cornwall's most breathtaking coastal landscapes, where rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and charming fishing villages tell stories of maritime heritage and natural beauty.
• Stage 4: The Lizard Peninsula - Nestled in the southernmost reaches of Cornwall, the Lizard Peninsula offers an unparalleled road trip experience that combines dramatic coastal landscapes, hidden coves, and rich maritime heritage. I'm excited to share my ultimate guide to exploring this breathtaking corner of England.
• Stage 5: Penzance to St Ives The sparsely populated West Penwith Peninsula offers rugged cliffs, dark skies and over 700 ancient sites. It is surrounded by the wild Atlantic and includes the famous Lands End
• Stage 6: St Ives to Padstow - Loose yourself on the numerous white sand beaches and marvel at the world class surf seen on this stretch of the route. The sunsets are stunning.
• Stage 7: Padstow to Lynton - Sample the excellent restaurants in Padstow, made famous by Rick stein. Explore the legendary birthplace of King Arthur at Tintagel and discover the narrow streets of Port Issac made famous by TVs Doc Martin.

Minack Theatre

Stage 1: Poole to Lyme Regis

As someone who's explored every twist and turn of the South West 660 multiple times, I can confidently say that the stretch between Poole and Lyme Regis along the Jurassic Coast is one of Britain's most spectacular drives. This 40-mile section of Dorset's coastline has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 

Top things to do between Poole and Lyme Regis

• Poole Harbour - Explore a natural wonderland that'll take your breath away – as Europe's largest natural harbor, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with its crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking and sailing, while its sheltered lagoons and mudflats provide an incredible sanctuary for thousands of birds and wildlife. 
• Lulworth - Be enthralled by some of England’s most dramatic shoreline scenery along the Jurassic Coast at Lulworth. Explore the unique circular Cove itself and Durdle Door’s famous rock archway. 
• Chesil Beach - Discover one of the geological wonders of the world. This narrow curving strip of stones is composed of 180 billion pebbles separating the sea from a lagoon behind it that’s packed with wildlife.
• Lyme Regis - Enjoy pastel painted cottages lead back up a sheltered valley from the beaches, harbours and seafood restaurants at Lyme Regis. Take a walk along the unique Cobb as featured in the Jane Austin novel Persuasion and the Oscar winning French Lieutenant's Woman.

Dartmoor

Stage 2: Lyme Regis to Plymouth

I love exploring the beautiful South Devon coast with its enticing mix of established resorts and wild remote beaches. Venture inland to discover the untamed landscape of Dartmoor with world class hiking and secret spots for a wild swim.

Top things to do between Lyme Regis and Plymouth:

• Exeter - Delight in a city that beckons road trippers with its stunning medieval cathedral, charming cobblestone streets, and gateway to Devon's breathtaking coastline. Discover the history of The House That Moved.
• Torquay - Relish a sun-drenched beach resort where crystal-clear waters meet charming Victorian architecture, offering breathtaking beaches and Mediterranean-like vibes in the heart of Devon's stunning coastline.
• Dartmoor - Revel in a wild wonderland of prehistoric stones, roaming ponies, and rugged landscapes. Hike windswept trails, explore magical tors, and immerse yourself in untamed natural beauty that breathes adventure. Take a wild swim at Spitchwick on the river Dart, explore the mystical Wistmans Wood.
• Dartmouth - Savour an historic port where rugged cliffs, maritime history, and breathtaking landscapes converge. Explore winding coastal paths, historic harbours, and wild Devon scenery that will ignite your adventurer's spirit.
• Totnes - Enjoy the stunning array of independent shops in the winding streets of old Totnes town.
• Slapton - Discover the tragic history of Operation Tiger in the rehearsal for D-Day in World War II. 
• Bigbury-on-Sea - Solve the mystery at the location for Agatha Christie's ‘And Then There Were None’.
• Plymouth - The historical port offers maritime history, stunning coastal views, and proximity to Dartmoor National Park. Visit the Hoe and take in the view from where the Mayflower set sail with the Pilgrims.

Gylly Beach

Stage 3: St. Austell to The Helford Estuary

This is a truly memorable stage, I love to visit the world's largest indoor rainforest at The Eden Project, discover perfect Cornish fishing villages and experience the beautiful serenity of the Helford Estuary and its history.

Top things to do between St. Austell and The Helford Estuary:

• The Eden Project - Explore the world's largest indoor rainforest, marvel at giant biomes housing thousands of exotic plants, trek through tropical gardens, and discover sustainable living in action.
• Charlestown - visit the enchanting harbour which featured in the Poldark series.
• Roseland - Loose yourself in this wild peninsula, where dramatic cliffs plunge into turquoise waters and find solitude in authentic fishing villages. Dine at the secretive Hidden Hut near Porthcatho.
• St Just-in-Roseland - enjoy the serene ambience of this quiet inlet on the Falmouth estuary.
• St Mawes - discover the stunning harbour and and take a ferry across to the port of Falmouth.
• Falmouth - Wonder the town's narrow streets and sample the array of independent shops and restaurants. Join the revellers at the pirate themed Sea Shanty festival. Take in the views at Pendennis Point.
• Kennall Vale Nature Reserve - picturesque woodland with an intriguing history of an early gun powder factory - one of a kind!
• Helford Estuary - Discover Daphne Du Maurier’s Frenchman's Creek and visit the delightful Ferryboat Inn. Cross the estuary by the tiny ‘on demand’ ferry and dine at the Shipwright Arms or the unique Holy Mackerel Cafe housed in an old chapel.

Coverack, The Lizard

Stage 4: The Lizard

The Lizard is a unique Cornish peninsular with dramatic cliffs at the UKs most Southerly point, an array of beautiful remote beaches and the majesty of the world famous St. Michaels Mount. 

Top things to do between St. Austell and The Helford Estuary:

• Poltesco - discover the history of serpentine and enjoy a stunning coastal walk to the charming fishing village of Cadgwith.
• Lizard Point - Savour the amazing views at the most Southerly point in the UK.
• Kynance Cove - take in the spectacular views of this stunning cove.
• Roskilly’s Ice Cream Farm - Enjoy a treat at this fascinating farm and factory hidden in the Lizard’s countryside.
• Poldhu beach - a hidden gem which has a fantastic beach cafe which opens 364 days of the year.
• Gunwalloe Church Cove - visit the unique ‘Church of the Storms’ located on this remote beach.
• Loe Bar - A wild and remote stretch of beach with an end of the world feeling - not suitable for swimming.
• Porthleven - Visit the famous Ship Inn overlooking the picturesque harbour.
• St Michaels Mount - Time your visit to cross the tidal causeway to the spectacular island castle overlooking the beautiful Mounts Bay.

Sennen Cove Beach

Stage 5: Penzance to St. Ives

This stage takes in the remote Lands End, several world class beaches which are perfect for memorable swims and amazing sunsets over the wild Atlantic Ocean.  Experience an unforgettable performance under the stars at the Minack Theatre and discover myths and legends at the ruins of ancient sites

• Penzance - Take a swim in the geothermal heated art deco Jubilee Pool. Sail or fly to the tropical feeling archipelago of the Scilly Isles.
• Mousehole - Read about the famous Mousehole cat in this perfect Cornish fishing village.
• Pedn Vounder - considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world - a must see.
• Nanjizal Beach - swim in the amazing ‘Song of the Sea’ pool - an experience not to be missed.
• Sennen Cove - Swim in the crystal clear waters and relax on the stunning white sand beach a stones throw from Lands End.
• Minack Theatre - Experience an unforgettable performance under the stars at the incredible outdoor theatre overlooking the wild Atlantic ocean.
• Cape Cornwall - Incredible views of the wild Atlantic from this stunning viewpoint.
• Botallack Mines - marvel at how the old mining engine house clings to the side of the cliff, a true wonder of the world.
• Ancient Sites - climb the stone walls of the Iron Age village of Chysauster and crawl through the hole of the mysterious Men-an-Tol ancient standing stone to test its legendary curative powers.

St Ives Harbour

Stage 6: St. Ives to Padstow

Explore the narrow streets of the stunning St Ives, experience world class surfing at Newquay and enjoy foodie heaven at Padstow. The beaches in this stage are some of the best in the South West with amazing sunsets.

• St Ives - Visit Tate St Ives and explore the narrow streets to discover the mirriad galleries and shops of this stunning Cornish fishing village. Visit the museum of the famous sculptor Barbara Hepworth.
• Godrevy Lighthouse - Admire the isolated lighthouse from the stunning wide sandy beach.
• Gwithian Beach - Stroll along the vast expanse of pure white sand, a surfers favourite and an amazing spot for a sunset BBQ.
• Perranporth - Loose yourself on the vast 5 mile long perfect sandy beach.
• Newquay - Experience the thrill of world class surfing at the spectacular Fistral beach.
• Padstow - Sample the best cuisine in the stunning harbour town made famous by the chef Rick Stein.

Port Issac

Stage 7: Padstow to Lynton

The final stage leaves the best to last, the stunning fishing village of Port Issac is a delight and the mysterious and remote Bodmin Moor is not to be missed. Discover the legend of King Arthur at Tintagel and take a ride on the spectacular funicular railway at Lynmouth

• Port Isaac - Explore the perfect Cornish fishing village made famous by the series Doc Martin.
• Bodmin Moor - Experience this mysterious and remote landscape, home to the Beast of Bodmin, a legendary black panther-like cat that is said to roam the area.
• Tintagel - Marvel at the spectacular views and immerse yourself in the legend that is King Arthur.
• Lynton and Lynmouth - Ride the world famous funicular railway and enjoy a drink in the traditional Rising Sun Inn overlooking the beautiful harbour.

Frequently asked questions