Walks in Cornwall

Cornish delight…

The county is renowned for its beautiful scenery. What better way to take it in than on a walk in Cornwall?

Walking holidays in Cornwall are more popular than ever, with visitors wanting to get out and about in the great outdoors while soaking up some of the most awe-inspiring views you’ll find anywhere in the UK.

Whether you’re part of a professional walking group looking for a destination that offers challenging hikes for an organised walking holiday.

If you just fancy getting fit and enjoying looking at some fantastic landscapes along the way, Cornwall has it all.

Cornwall boasts an impressive 422 miles of captivating coastline to walk across!

Thanks to the opening up of the South West Coastal Path, which starts at Minehead in Somerset and runs right along the coast of Devon and Cornwall, ending at Poole in Dorset.

People of all walking levels can enjoy an endless number of unbroken trails along Cornwall’s stunning coastline.

Have your furry friend with you? Consider the dog-friendly caravan parks in Cornwall.

A vertical shot of the coastal town and greenish-blue sea. St Ives, Cornwall, England, UK.

Walks in Cornwall are easy, like a Sunday morning…

Boscastle, 3.3 miles

Start at Boscastle car park and follow the road to the South West Coastal Path. Walk through a floral valley and lush woodlands, over River Valency, along cliff tops until looping back to the fishing village of Boscastle.

Gribbin Head, 4 miles

Follow Coombe Farm through Fowey’s small but perfectly formed beach along cliff tops to Polridmouth until the spectacular landmark of Gribbin Head lighthouse appears.

Walk from Falmouth to Mylor, 4.2 miles.

Start at Falmouth and head out along the South West Coastal Path with stunning clifftop views over the English Channel, ending at Mylor, a perfect stop for refreshments before heading back to Falmouth.

Walk from Sennen Cove to Land’s End, 3.3 miles.

Start at Sennen Cove and take a clifftop walk with dramatic scenery and exciting wildlife. Watch waves crashing below before arriving at the symbolic landmark of Land’s End.

The small village of Boscastle, Cornwall in the middle of a lush green valley.

A coastal path winding along green cliffs, with waves crashing against rocky outcrops below. A quaint building sits on the edge of the cliffs, overlooking the vast blue ocean.

Horizontal banner or header with signpost at Land`s End Cornwall UK. Land's End to John o' Groats is the traversal of the whole length of Great Britain between two extremities - southwest & northeast

Challenging Walks in Cornwall

Perranporth, 7.4 miles

Starting at Perranporth, take the South West Coastal Path past Cligga Head and Hanover Cove before dropping down to Trevellas Coombe.

Follow the footpath alongside the stream before heading back along the coastal path back to Perranporth.

St Michael’s Mount, 9 miles

This is a coastal walk starting at Lamorna Cove along the South West Coastal Path past Newlyn and Penzance, ending at the iconic St Michael’s Mount.

St Michaels Mount is one of our favourite attractions in Cornwall.

Padstow to Harlyn Bay, 9 miles

Start at Padstow Harbour and walk along the coastal path with the Camel Estuary below. Walk up to Brea Hill and Stepper Point before ending the walk at Harlyn Bay. Even better, this is a great dog-friendly walk, with both beaches welcoming dogs.

A stone sundial surrounded by standing stones on a grassy hill, with a sweeping view of the coastline and beach in the background. The scene captures a peaceful, sunny day near the sea.

Two golden retrievers on a beach, their fur wet from playing in the water. Both dogs have happy expressions as they look up at the camera.

A picturesque seaside village with rows of houses and buildings featuring grey roofs and white walls. The sandy beach is dotted with boats and people enjoying the sunny day, with clear turquoise waters in the foreground.

Port Gaverne to Doyden Castle, 8.5 miles

Start with a steep climb from Port Gaverne up to the small hamlet of Trewetha through the open countryside.

Look out for Port Quin with its picture-postcard cottages, and aim for the far headland, where Doyden Castle boasts some far-reaching and spectacular coastal views.

A five month old yorkie puppy at the beach in Cornwall UK.

Dog-Friendly Walks in Cornwall

Here are just a few dog-friendly walks to enjoy in Cornwall, but there are so many more!

Landhydrock Estate, 4 miles

Miles of woodland paths and trails are perfect for a runabout and have loads of great smells to sniff!

Holywell Bay, 1 mile

Start at National Trust Holywell Bay car park, with stretches of beach, sand dunes & a stream. Dog-friendly Treguth Inn is opposite the car park and is great to stop off at for refreshments.

Two small dogs on a leash walking along a forested path covered in leaves, their fur slightly wet. The image conveys a sense of adventure and exploration during a walk in nature.

A person walking a small dog along a paved path surrounded by lush greenery. The dog is looking up, clearly enjoying the walk, and the person is wearing athletic shoes.

Accessible Walks in Cornwall…

Cornwall prides itself on being inclusive and offers loads of accessible walks and sections of the South West Coastal Path that have been specially adapted for wheelchairs and motorised transport.

Walk from Marazion to Penzance, 2 miles

Walk along the promenade above the beaches all the way along the following curve of Mount’s Bay.

Walk from Basset’s Cove to North Cliffs, 1 mile.

Take a walk along a specially adapted section of coastal path with some fabulous views along the way.

Walk from Newlyn to Mousehole, 1 mile.

A level path takes people along a trail that connects two completely captivating fishing villages.

A sun-dappled path in a dense, green forest. The path is narrow and winding, surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere perfect for a nature walk.

You can also explore this beautiful county by taking one of the many cycling trails in Cornwall. So what are you waiting for? Get those hiking boots out and start taking your walks in Cornwall, and do’nt forget to make sure that your trip is packed with activities!

by Katy Depledge / Walking Guides

4th September 2024