What is the difference between coasteering and gorge walking? Coasteering is along the sea cliffs and in the sea, and gorge walking is up a river gorge.
Both are wet, with wetsuits and helmets. Both can be a great team day, but they feel different.
| Factor | Coasteering | Gorge walking |
|---|---|---|
| Where | Rocky coast and sea | River gorge or stream |
| What you do | Scramble, swim and jump from rocks | Wade, climb, swim and slide |
| Water | Sea, with tides and swell | Fresh water, with river levels |
| Typical season | Spring to autumn | Spring to autumn |
| Kit | Wetsuit, helmet, buoyancy aid | Wetsuit, helmet, buoyancy aid |
| Weather dependence | High, sea conditions matter | High, river levels matter |
What is coasteering?
You travel along the coast, moving between the rocks and the water. You scramble, swim and, if you want, jump into deep water. A guide chooses a route to match the tide and the group.
What is gorge walking?
You follow a stream or river up a gorge, wading and climbing as you go. You might slide down rocks and jump into pools. It’s often more sheltered than the coast.
Which suits a team?
Both work well. Coasteering feels bigger and wilder, with the sea around you. Gorge walking can feel more contained, which suits groups who are a bit nervous.
Choice and challenge
On both you can usually opt out of the jumps. Tell your guide what you’re happy with and they’ll adjust.
Cold water and safety
Both involve cold water, so read our water activity safety guide. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency publishes guidance for coastal activities, and your provider checks tides and swell.
Where to look
See the coasteering and gorge walking pages.
In short:
- Coasteering is sea, gorge walking is river
- Both are wet and need good conditions
- You can usually skip the jumps on both