Natural England

The route through one of Devon's National Nature Reserves has been named by the Telegraph as one of the greatest walks in the world.

A walk through Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs National Nature Reserve (NNR) appeared among 50 routes in a list which also included such iconic destinations as the Grand Canyon and the Himalayas.

The reserve which is managed by Natural England, is a 6 mile coastal strip of landslipped cliffs that form a wild and unspoilt area between the towns of Axmouth in Devon and Lyme Regis in Dorset.

The World in 50 Walks list described walking as the only way to get at the heart and soul of a landscape and this is certainly one of the best ways to experience the Undercliffs . The reserve is located within the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is part of the Dorset and East Devon World Heritage Site also known as the Jurassic Coast. From the red cliffs of late Triassic rocks in the west near Axmouth to the to the ever changing Blue Lias cliffs of Lyme Regis at the eastern end of the reserve, the South West Coast Path offers a memorable 7 mile walk through the mainly wooded areas of the NNR.

Tom Sunderland, Senior Reserves Officer at Natural England said 'The walk through the reserve is demanding due to the difficult terrain, and can often be muddy and slippery so we would advise that visitors do not attempt it in bad weather. We often say 'don't underestimate the Undercliffs', however, if you are well prepared it is a very rewarding experience.'

Once on the coast path there are no intermediate paths leading to the shore or the road. The National Nature Reserve is remote and has been described as the wildest tract of countryside in the whole of the south of England. The walk should therefore only be undertaken by people who are fit and able to cope with strenuous and demanding walking terrain.

The area around Lyme Regis is world renowned for its important geology and the amazing array of fossils found along the coast. Prehistoric remains can be seen amongst the beach pebbles and platforms and fossil collecting is permitted from the loose material along the beach. The National Nature Reserve is also internationally important for its wildlife, displaying a wide range of habitats and associated species.

There are public car parks in Seaton and Lyme Regis which both lie on the A3052 that runs from Exeter to Lyme Regis.

For further information about the Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs NNR visit www.naturalengland.org.uk

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Notes for editors

1. Natural England is here to conserve and enhance the natural environment, for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people and the economic prosperity that it brings. For further information about Natural England please visit: www.naturalengland.org.uk

2. NNRs: Every National Nature Reserve (NNR) is nationally important due to its wildlife and geological features. They are among the best examples of a particular habitat and are carefully managed on behalf of the nation by Natural England or held by approved bodies such as Wildlife Trusts. In the South West we have 49 NNRs.

3. For further information on this news release or for photos please contact Christine White on 07900 608 017