Walking in Cornwall offers a truly magical experience, with its stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and rugged interior landscapes. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll, Cornwall has a route to suit every level of adventure. Here are some of the best walks and tips for enjoying them:
1. South West Coast Path
- Length: 630 miles in total, with various segments in Cornwall
- Highlights: Spectacular coastal views, access to beaches, historical sites, and diverse wildlife.
- Recommended Segment: The stretch from St Ives to Penzance is particularly scenic, offering views of the Atlantic Ocean and passing through charming towns.
2. The Saint’s Way
- Length: Approximately 30 miles
- Route: Padstow to Fowey
- Highlights: This trail crosses Cornwall from north to south, weaving through rolling hills, woodlands, and fields. It follows a route that pilgrims may have used in medieval times.
3. Bodmin Moor
- Area: Varied routes available
- Highlights: Rugged moorland, panoramic views, historical sites like the Cheesewring and Hurlers stone circles.
- Advice: Weather on Bodmin Moor can change quickly, so come prepared with appropriate gear.
4. The Lizard Peninsula
- Length: Various walks of different lengths
- Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and rare flora. Kynance Cove is a must-visit with its stunning turquoise sea.
- Tips: Visit in spring or early summer to enjoy the full bloom of wildflowers.
5. Tintagel to Boscastle
- Length: About 5 miles
- Highlights: Coastal views, Tintagel Castle (associated with King Arthur legends), and the picturesque harbor of Boscastle.
- Terrain: Quite rugged with steep sections, so good walking shoes are necessary.
Walking Tips for Cornwall
- Weather: Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and waterproofs.
- Tide Times: If your walk involves beaches or coastal paths close to the sea, check the tide times to avoid being caught out.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy boots or walking shoes, as coastal paths can be rocky and uneven.
- Maps and Navigation: Always have a reliable map or GPS, as mobile signal can be spotty in remote areas.
- Local Food: Enjoy local Cornish pasties, seafood, and cream teas as perfect fuel for your walks.
Walking in Cornwall not only offers physical exercise but also provides a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Each path offers a new perspective of Cornwall’s breathtaking landscape and rich history.
Recommended Towns & Villages for the best walks
- Walks from Anderton
- Walks from Blunts
- Walks from Bodelva
- Walks from Bodmin
- Walks from Bolventor
- Walks from Borough
- Walks from Boscastle
- Walks from Boswinger
- Walks from Botallack
- Walks from Bowithick
- Walks from Bradford
- Walks from Bray Shop
- Walks from Bridge
- Walks from Cadgwith
- Walks from Calstock
- Walks from Camelford
- Walks from Carbis Bay
- Walks from Cardinham
- Walks from Cargreen
- Walks from Coverack
- Walks from Crackington Haven
- Walks from Falmouth
- Walks from Fowey
- Walks from Gorran Churchtown
- Walks from Gorran Haven
- Walks from Gunnislake
- Walks from Hayle
- Walks from Helford
- Walks from Helston
- Walks from Holywell
- Walks from Lands End
- Walks from Lansallos
- Walks from Lerryn
- Walks from Lesnewth
- Walks from Linkinhorne
- Walks from Lizard
- Walks from Looe
- Walks from Lostwithiel
- Walks from Luxulyan
- Walks from Marazion
- Walks from Mawgan Porth
- Walks from Mellion
- Walks from Mevagissey
- Walks from Minions
- Walks from Morwenstow
- Walks from Mousehole
- Walks from Mullion
- Walks from Mylor Bridge
- Walks from New Mills
- Walks from Newbridge
- Walks from Newquay
- Walks from North Hill
- Walks from North Petherwin
- Walks from Padstow
- Walks from Par
- Walks from Penzance
- Walks from Perranporth
- Walks from Polzeath
- Walks from Porthtowan
- Walks from Portloe
- Walks from Portreath
- Walks from Rilla Mill
- Walks from Sandplace
- Walks from Seaton
- Walks from St Breward
- Walks from St Ives
- Walks from St Neot
- Walks from Stoke Climsland
- Walks from Trewellard
- Walks from Upton
- Walks from Wadebridge
- Walks from Windmill
Waymarked Trails
Path Name | Distance |
---|---|
Camel Trail | 29 km / 18 miles |
King Arthur Way | 249 km / 155 miles |
Land’s End Trail | 488 km / 303 miles |
Mary Michael Pilgrims Way | 563 km / 350 miles |
Saints’ Way/Forth an Syns | 47 km / 29 miles |
South West Coast Path | 1014 km / 630 miles |
Tamar Valley Discovery Trail | 50 km / 31 miles |
Two Castles Trail | 38 km / 24 miles |
Beach Walks
- Sennen
- Polzeath
- Mullion Cove
- Carbis Bay
- Crantock
- Holywell
- Porthcurno
- Lizard Point