Great Western Railway on the hunt for best photographer of the South West

Great Western Railway has partnered with the South West Coast Path Association to support its annual South West Coast Path Photographer of the Year competition, with a stunning large-scale exhibition in 2024.

GWR has been helping people explore the south west for over 100 years, so having them on board to support an exhibition that showcases the 630-mile South West Coast Path National Trail is a perfect fit. 

The South West Coast Path Association, the charity that protects and champions England’s longest National Trail, says it is looking forward to working with GWR to promote sustainable transport, connecting the trail by rail, and help improve access to one of the region’s most valuable natural assets, the Coast Path.  

Partnering with GWR to present a photography exhibition is a new way for the charity to reach a wider audience and highlight the awe-inspiring coastal landscapes that can be discovered when adventuring along the Coast Path. The exhibition will also highlight the threats that climate change brings to the Path, and how the charity is working to protect the Trail now and for future generations.

Aletha Mays, for the Association, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Great Western Railway to inspire more adventures along this world-class walking route, as well as encourage photographers to get involved in what will be a beautiful exhibition.”

Amanda Burns, GWR Sales and Marketing Director, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support the South West Coast Path with its Photographer of the Year competition.

“Thousands of our customers are drawn to the Coast Path every year and we are proud to deliver a sustainable means of transport for them to do so. This competition will help to promote the beauty it has to offer, and we can’t wait to see some adventure-inspiring images.”

Julian Gray, Director, South West Coast Path Association said: "We are looking forward to working with GWR on the exhibition to showcase the beauty of the south west and the charity’s work to protect and care for England’s longest National Trail.” 

The competition is free to enter and open to all, whether you’re young or old, professional, or amateur, this is a chance for everyone to celebrate the magic and wonder of the South West Coast Path and all it has to offer.   

There are five categories to enter, and there is no limit on the number of photographs you can enter.

Categories include: Your Path; Urban Lines; Nature; Climate Change; Sky Shot, PLUS Young Photographer of the Year Award (under 18).