Short winter days and fast-changing coastal weather need a different kind of planning. Here's how to time your walk, read the sea forecast and carry the right kit.

A practical guide to the errors that catch first-time walkers on the South West Coast Path, from unworn boots and overloaded packs to tides, ferries and headland weather.

A practical routine for planning coastal walks around UK tides — reading tide tables, judging sea state and picking access points before you set off.