The South Coast of England is one of the UK’s most loved destinations, known for its sunny climate, sandy beaches, historic towns, and dramatic coastline. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a seaside holiday, or a full coast-to-coast adventure, having a South Coast map is essential for navigating the area with ease and discovering hidden gems along the way.
In this guide, you’ll find an overview of the key places on the South Coast map, from Dover to Cornwall, along with travel tips, top attractions, and must-see destinations.
What Is the South Coast of England?
The South Coast stretches along the English Channel, spanning several counties from Kent in the east to Cornwall in the west. It includes:
- Kent
- East Sussex
- West Sussex
- Hampshire
- Dorset
- Devon
- Cornwall
Each region along the South Coast map offers its own unique charm, from white chalk cliffs and historic harbours to surfer beaches and coastal paths.
Interactive South Coast Map – Key Regions & Destinations
Here’s a breakdown of major locations along the South Coast map:
East Kent
- Dover – Famous for the White Cliffs of Dover and Dover Castle
- Folkestone – Creative town with galleries and waterfront walks
- Rye – Quaint medieval town near Camber Sands beach
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East & West Sussex
- Brighton – Vibrant city with beaches, piers, and nightlife
- Eastbourne – Traditional seaside resort near Beachy Head cliffs
- Bognor Regis – Family-friendly town with long promenades
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Hampshire
- Portsmouth – Naval city with maritime museums and ferry terminals
- Southampton – Cruise capital of the UK, also known for shopping
- Isle of Wight – Accessible by ferry, packed with beaches and hiking trails
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Dorset
- Bournemouth – Seven miles of golden beaches and lively town centre
- Weymouth – Great for families and traditional British beach days
- Jurassic Coast – World Heritage coastline from Swanage to Lyme Regis
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Devon
- Exmouth – Gateway to the Jurassic Coast
- Sidmouth – Elegant Regency town with red cliffs
- Torquay – Part of the English Riviera, with harbours and sandy beaches
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Cornwall
- St Ives – Artists’ haven with clear waters and sandy beaches
- Newquay – Surfing capital of the UK
- Penzance & Land’s End – Westernmost point with dramatic cliff scenery
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Best Beaches on the South Coast (With Map Locations)
Some of the most beautiful beaches marked on the South Coast map include:
- Camber Sands (East Sussex) – Fine sand dunes, ideal for kitesurfing
- Studland Bay (Dorset) – National Trust-protected beach with dunes
- Bournemouth Beach (Dorset) – Family-friendly with amenities
- Fistral Beach (Cornwall) – Surfing paradise
- Porthcurno (Cornwall) – Secluded cove near the Minack Theatre
South Coast Walking Routes
If you’re planning to explore by foot, several long-distance walking paths are highlighted on any good South Coast walking map:
- South West Coast Path – From Minehead (Somerset) to Poole (Dorset)
- England Coast Path – Connecting the entire South Coast gradually
- South Downs Way – From Winchester to Eastbourne through hills and coastline
How to Use a South Coast Travel Map
Whether you’re using Google Maps, Ordnance Survey, or a printed road atlas, here’s what to look for:
Features to Include:
- Major road routes (A27, A31, A303, M3, A30)
- Rail connections to towns like Brighton, Bournemouth, and Exeter
- Coastal paths and walking trails
- Beaches, ferry terminals, and car parks
- Campgrounds, tourist info centers, and attractions
Where to Find South Coast Maps
- Google Maps – Best for live navigation and restaurant/hotel suggestions
- Visit England & Regional Tourism Websites – Downloadable PDF maps
- Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps – Ideal for hikers and campers
- National Trust App – Shows heritage sites and walking trails
- Local Tourist Offices – Pick up free local town and coast maps
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Conclusion
Whether you’re mapping out your next seaside adventure, planning a coastal walking holiday, or just curious about England’s southern edge, a reliable South Coast map is your ticket to exploring one of the UK’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. From white cliffs and surf spots to harbours and heritage towns, the South Coast has it all—and a map makes it even easier to experience.
FAQs
1. Where does the South Coast of England start and end?
The South Coast typically stretches from Dover in Kent (east) to Penzance or Land’s End in Cornwall (west), covering approximately 400+ miles.
2. What are the best towns to visit on the South Coast map?
Top towns include Brighton, Bournemouth, Weymouth, St Ives, Portsmouth, and Whitstable.
3. Are there walking paths shown on South Coast maps?
Yes. Look for maps that include the South West Coast Path, England Coast Path, or South Downs Way—all marked with footpath icons.
4. Can I do a South Coast road trip?
Absolutely. Use a South Coast driving map to plan scenic stops across counties, from cliffs in Dover to beaches in Cornwall.
5. Is there a printable South Coast map available?
Yes. Regional tourism sites like VisitSouthEastEngland.com and VisitDorset.com often offer free printable PDF maps for travel planning.
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