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
- Anderton
- Blunts
- Bodelva
- Bodmin
- Bolventor
- Borough
- Boscastle
- Boswinger
- Botallack
- Bowithick
- Bradford
- Bray Shop
- Bridge
- Cadgwith
- Calstock
- Camelford
- Carbis Bay
- Cardinham
- Cargreen
- Coverack
- Crackington Haven
- Falmouth
- Fowey
- Gorran Churchtown
- Gorran Haven
- Gunnislake
- Hayle
- Helford
- Helston
- Holywell
- Lands End
- Lansallos
- Lerryn
- Lesnewth
- Linkinhorne
- Lizard
- Looe
- Lostwithiel
- Luxulyan
- Marazion
- Mawgan Porth
- Mellion
- Mevagissey
- Minions
- Morwenstow
- Mousehole
- Mullion
- Mylor Bridge
- New Mills
- Newbridge
- Newquay
- North Hill
- North Petherwin
- Padstow
- Par
- Penzance
- Perranporth
- Polzeath
- Porthtowan
- Portloe
- Portreath
- Rilla Mill
- Sandplace
- Seaton
- St Breward
- St Ives
- St Neot
- Stoke Climsland
- Trewellard
- Upton
- Wadebridge
- Windmill
Waymarked Trails In Cornwall
| 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
