The Path (The Albion Chronicles. Vol. 1)

The Path

The Path

Show of Hands

Hands on Music HMCD18 2003

Producers: Show Of Hands, Matt Clifford,

and Mick Dolan

The Path, an instrumental journey around the West Country Coastline, played by Steve and Phil.It's been some years, now, since the complete opening of the South West Coast Path. The full 630 mile adventure around the coastline of the southwest peninsula has now become the region's most popular attraction. From the Exmoor National Park to Poole harbour there is no better way to enjoy oour dramatic coastline, its wildlife, history and culture. We hope this music will inspire you to discover - or rediscover its endless fascination.

The South West Coast Path is easily the longest and, in places, the most arduous, of England's National Trails. The path is actually the amalgamation of 4 paths; the Somerset & North Devon, Cornwall, South Devon, and Dorset Coastal paths. The route is very popular, and it can be crowded in the summer months, though there are always long stretches where your only company will be a chorus of sea birds.

The trail can be windy - the prevailing wind is from the southwest, and numerous river estuaries along the way require ferry crossings. This means that a good guidebook with tide and ferry timetables is essential equipment for walkers.

The path has an interesting history; it is based on a footpath established by Coastguards who patrolled the entire length of the South West Peninsula - on foot, every day - watching for smugglers. This sentry activity was carried on right up until 1856, and the length of the path is dotted with coastguard cottages at convenient intervals.

Because the coastguards needed to be able to investigate every cove and inlet along the way, the path hugs the coast closely. This allows today's walkers superb views, but it also means that there are frequent changes in elevation.

The path is best enjoyed in May, for then the wildflowers are in full bloom. In full summer it may be difficult to find accommodation, so from that perspective the spring and autumn months are preferable. If you are willing to put up with the crowds, walking in the summer allows you to go swimming in the warmed water of the sea!