Martyn Howe, long-distance hiker and life Member of the South West Coast Path charity, shares the story of his pilgrimage along the world’s longest coastal path in this recently published book. Our favourite part is when he told us how surprised he was by the number of Independent Hostels he stayed in along the way.
The recently inaugurated King Charles III England Coast Path was walked by Martyn just before its official launch to the public. In this book, he reflects on how fortunate he was to have experienced what is now England’s newest and longest National Trail—and offers an engaging invitation to follow in his footsteps.
Why do we walk? Why are we drawn to the sea? And what happens when these questions shape a journey around the coast of England—a pilgrimage in search of art, culture, community, and the country’s rich natural heritage along the world’s longest managed coastal path? Moving beyond a traditional walking memoir, The Coast is Our Compass explores all this and more.
Travelling the length of the King Charles III England Coast Path, Martyn encounters diverse landscapes and communities, gaining insight into England’s environment and the social challenges that will shape its future. Rich in nature writing, The Coast is Our Compass also serves as a quiet call to protect the landscape and the natural world.
Along the way, Martyn discovers that long-distance backpacking—a simpler way of life, stripped back to a few essential possessions and free from digital distraction—creates space for reflection. His journey is shaped by art, by industry set against nature, and by the many subtle juxtapositions found along the coast.
Feeling inspired? Why not Buy a Copy?
When it comes to hostelling, Martyn says … “It is great to inspire and advocate for the Independent Hostels. I get frustrated with the YHA often, even though they have some wonderful hostels, but I am rarely disappointed by an Independent.”