Four Romantic Walks on the Network

What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than by walking with your loved one? Take your pick from these four short and easy strolls.

Lover’s Walk, Clevedon, Somerset

There must be thousands of Lover’s Lanes (or similarly named amorous avenues) across Britain. Lover’s Walk, in the Victorian seaside resort of Clevedon on the Somerset coast, starts up the hill from the town’s ornate, wrought-iron pier. Follow the footpath for about a mile until a set of steps takes you down to Ladye Bay. The sunsets are spectacular here with wonderful views across the Bristol Channel to Wales, so take a flask of hot chocolate (or a bottle of something colder) and watch the water gradually turn from silver into gold.
Getting there: Take the GWR train to Yatton (for Clevedon) station. A local bus runs from the station to Clevedon seafront

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire

This secluded crescent of golden sand and crystal clear water could grace the cover of a Caribbean travel brochure. Indeed, Barafundle has been voted one of the Top 12 beaches in the world. The bay is only accessible on foot, but that simply adds to its romantic remoteness. To reach it, follow the stunning coastal path south from Stackpole Quay for just half-a-mile. Then, stroll hand-in-hand across the (hopefully deserted) sands and make like you’re honeymooning in Barbados!
Getting there: Take the GWR train to Pembroke Dock station, then a local bus service to Stackpole

The Goat Walk, Topsham, Devon

It might sound more agricultural than romantic (well, this is Devon), but a stroll along the Goat Walk in the pretty town of Topsham has long been a favourite with courting couples. This short path (which opened in 1908) starts at the very end of The Strand and follows a raised wall alongside the scenic Exe estuary. Continue on a loop back into town to visit one of the many great restaurants and foodie pubs. The Passage House on Ferry Road serves River Exe mussels, harvested just a few miles downstream and a local alternative to oysters.
Getting there: Take a GWR train to Topsham station

Blaise Castle Estate, Bristol

This Grade II-listed landscape is a top strolling spot for lovers and history lovers alike. The circular Castle Walk (1¼ miles) starts at the estate’s café and runs past the 18th Century mansion house (now a museum) before continuing uphill. Look out for the Giant’s Footprint and Butcher’s Cave rock formations as you climb to Lover’s Leap. This dramatic precipice overlooks the city and Blaise Castle itself – a gothic folly once used as a summer house for entertaining the great and good of Bristol.
Getting there: Take a GWR train to Bristol Temple Meads station. A local bus runs from the station to the estate