The recent legal dispute between the National Trust and Adventure Beyond, a family-run outdoor adventure company in Pembrokeshire, has sparked a heated debate over access and land rights along the Wales Coast Path. This incident highlights the complex relationship between commercial activities, environmental conservation, and the public's right to explore and enjoy nature. While the National Trust's decision to issue a trespass notice may seem straightforward, it raises important questions about the balance between preservation and accessibility, and the role of local communities in shaping these policies.
The Context: A Family Business and a National Treasure
Adventure Beyond, founded by Jethro Moore, has been a beloved fixture in Pembrokeshire for over three decades. Moore's family has deep roots in the area, and he has become a trusted guide and mentor to many, offering a range of outdoor activities that cater to people of all ages and backgrounds. From abseiling and boat hire to bushcraft and foraging, Adventure Beyond provides an immersive experience of the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and a sense of community among its participants.
The Wales Coast Path, officially launched in 2012, is a 1,400km-long route that stretches along the coastline, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. As a public pathway, it is managed by Natural Resources Wales, which works closely with local authorities and national parks to maintain and develop the path. However, the path's popularity and the potential for commercial activities have led to conflicts over land rights and access, particularly in areas like Ceibwr Bay, where Adventure Beyond operates.
The Trespass Notice: A Legal Battle Over Access
The National Trust's decision to issue a trespass notice to Adventure Beyond is rooted in the trust's role as a private landowner. The trust claims that the company has 'no right whatsoever to enter or use the land,' citing a recent withdrawal of permission for commercial coasteering activities. This permission, allegedly granted over the phone in May 2025, was withdrawn in an email in March 2026, effective immediately.
Adventure Beyond, however, argues that the Wales Coast Path runs through the land at Ceibwr Bay, and that the path is a public right of way. The company believes that its activities are in line with the path's purpose and that the trust's decision is unjustified. The company's co-founder, Jethro Moore, emphasizes the importance of the path in connecting people to the natural world and fostering a sense of community and well-being.
The Broader Implications: Balancing Conservation and Accessibility
This dispute raises important questions about the balance between conservation and accessibility. While the National Trust's role as a steward of the land is crucial, the trust must also consider the impact of its decisions on local communities and the public's right to access and enjoy nature. The Wales Coast Path is a beloved destination for hikers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts, and its accessibility is a vital part of its appeal.
One thing that immediately stands out is the trust's assertion that it does not need to justify its decision. In my opinion, this is a critical point that deserves further scrutiny. If the trust is indeed a private landowner, it must also recognize the public's interest in the land and the path. The trust should engage in open dialogue with local communities, businesses, and visitors to understand their needs and concerns, and to find a solution that balances conservation and accessibility.
A Call for Dialogue and Collaboration
The dispute between the National Trust and Adventure Beyond is a reminder of the complex interplay between land rights, conservation, and public access. It is a call for dialogue and collaboration between stakeholders, including landowners, local communities, businesses, and visitors. By working together, we can find a solution that preserves the natural world while also ensuring that it remains accessible and enjoyable for all.
In my view, the trust should reconsider its decision and engage in a transparent and inclusive process to determine the best course of action. This may involve seeking input from local communities, businesses, and visitors, and exploring alternative solutions that balance conservation and accessibility. By doing so, the trust can help to foster a sense of community and shared responsibility for the Wales Coast Path and the natural world it protects.
