THE latest stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path reaching Clevedon has opened today (Thursday, July 20).

It stretches from Old Passage near Aust, South Gloucestershire, through to Wain’s Hill, Clevedon.

It is the second phase of the path between Aust and Brean Down.

The first stage between Sand Bay, near Weston-super-Mare and Brean Down Fort, opened in June 2022.

The remaining phases aim to be completed by the end of 2024 enabling a continuous walking route to the Somerset coastline and beyond.

Route highlights include excellent views of the Severn Estuary and the crossings to Wales, contrasting with the industrial landscape near the Port of Bristol and the tranquil and rocky coastline between Portishead and Clevedon.

The path also forms part of the next section of the ‘North Somerset Tidal Trail’ which will eventually follow the length of North Somerset’s coastline.

This is the latest section of the 2,700-mile King Charles III England Coast Path to be opened by Natural England.

Natural England has worked in collaboration with South Gloucestershire Council, Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, the Environment Agency, local landowners and many other local partners to make the route available and accessible to the public.

Rachel Williams, area manager for Wessex at Natural England said: "We’re pleased to open this new section of the King Charles III England Coast Path today, over 23 miles of spectacular views boasting some of our region’s most iconic wildlife.

"We know that just two hours of contact with nature a week can significantly boost our health and wellbeing. This path is a welcome addition for South Gloucestershire the Avonmouth area of Bristol as well North Somerset and will provide both the local community and visitors and tourists from further afield more opportunities to access the coast and connect with nature."

Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, said: "Today marks an important step forward in the opening up of our beautiful coastline for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

"I’m delighted to see the official opening of this section from Aust to Wain’s Hill in Clevedon, an Iron Age hill fort dating back to the Late Bronze and Early Iron Age.

"I’d like to take the opportunity to thank council officers, local authority partners and Natural England for continuing to work together to create the King Charles III England Coast Path, such an important project which continues to create exciting opportunities for tourism and our economy."

When complete, the King Charles III England Coast Path will be the longest continuous coastal path in the world. This National Trail will encompass the entire English coast, passing through some of the most stunning, dynamic and internationally recognised scenery.