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20 of the best Cornwall coastal walks
Cornwall is renowned for its stunning coastline, offering some of the most breathtaking walks in the UK that showcase the region's natural beauty. Exploring these many Cornwall coastal walks is one of the best ways to make your holiday unforgettable.
From rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to historic sites and charming villages, these Cornish walking trails provide a fantastic experience for all holidaymakers. We have just the thing if you're looking for a relaxing stroll along the coast to soak up the sun. Why not opt for the Bude to Northcott Mouth walk?
Or, you could seek adventure in your trails, exploring the Botallack Head walk. There are so many Cornwall coastal walks that you'll be completely spoiled for choice! So, let's get right into it and explore 20 of the best Cornwall coastal walks that will leave you in awe of this picturesque county.
Bude to Northcott Mouth
This 3.5-mile circular walk is a must for those visiting the delightful town of Bude. The Bude to Northcott Mouth route lets you look at the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Bude Sea Lock on a peaceful stroll along the coast. The route also takes you along the Southwest Coast Path, the famous 630-mile-long trail that many of the Cornwall coastal walks on this list are part of.
Find out moreAround 300 miles of this path are in Cornwall, and many visitors to the Cornish coast like to tackle parts of this trail on their breaks.
If you're staying at Bude Holiday Resort, you can reach Bude to start the walk in less than a 10-minute drive.
Park Head and Pentire Steps
The Park Head and Pentire Steps walk is a simple 2-mile loop that lets you explore the beautiful Porth Mear on a smooth and intriguing walk. This Cornwall coastal walk showcases the rugged beauty of the Pentire Peninsula, with its dramatic cliffs and, of course, the legendary Pentire Steps carved into the rock.
Find out moreIt is a great opportunity for you and your family to take memorable photos of yourself scaling the iconic steps.
Trevose Head (short version)
For those seeking a shorter yet equally scenic Cornwall coastal walk, the Trevose Head route is an excellent choice – and as we've specified here, it's the shorter version you're looking for. This 2-mile circular trail meanders along the clifftops, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the chance to spot a variety of seabirds nesting on the cliffs.
Find out moreThe trail also begins and ends right near the Trevose Head Lighthouse, so you can explore this great landmark on your journey, too!
Botallack Head
The Botallack Head walk is a 2.5-mile adventure that takes you through the heart of Cornwall's mining heritage. This Cornwall coastal walk will treat you to a range of interesting sights, including the iconic Crowns Engine Houses and the Mining Interpretation Centre at Botallack Count House.
Find out moreThis is one of the best coastal walks in Cornwall since it offers stunning views and a wealth of history and culture along the way, too!
Polzeath to St Enodoc Church
The Polzeath to St Enodoc Church is a 4-mile circular walk perfect for visiting the charming town of Polzeath. The route follows the Southwest Coast Path, offering stunning views of several beaches in one trail. You'll begin the walk at Polzeath Beach and meet several other coastal favourites, such as Broadagogue Cove and Daymer Bay.
Find out moreThis will give you plenty of opportunity to relax in the sunshine on the beach and recharge for the remainder of your walk.
Bude Coast and Canal
The Bude Coast and Canal walk is a moderately challenging 5.7-mile loop that combines the beauty of the Bude Canal with the stunning coastal scenery. This Cornwall coastal walk gives you a mix of beach views, canal scenery, and even farmland sightings on the trail.
Find out moreIt's a great walk if you want to bring your dog on holiday, too, since there are plenty of dog-friendly pubs along the route – such as The Brendon Arms.
Hayle and The Towans
The Hayle and The Towans walk is another one of the best Cornish walking trails. It provides a 6.5-mile circular route that showcases Cornwall's diverse landscapes. You can also begin this walk near a children's playground, which is the perfect choice if you're bringing your little ones along for the experience.
Find out moreThe route will take you through the historic town of Hayle, along the sandy beaches of The Towans and across the iconic Hayle Estuary, offering stunning views of St Ives Bay.
Plus, if you're staying at St Ives Bay Holiday Park, you can reach the playground to start the walk in less than a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute walk.
Rock to St Minver
This 6.7-mile circular walk is a true gem, taking you through the charming villages of Rock and St Minver. Due to it being a much longer walk than some of the alternatives on our list, choose this route if you're ready for a more active day out.
Find out moreThe route offers panoramic views of the Camel Estuary and the chance to explore the historic St Enodoc Church. At the church, you'll find the burial place of Sir John Betjeman, adding further intrigue and history to your walk.
West Pentire and Polly Joke
The West Pentire and Polly Joke walk is a relatively short 2.2-mile circular route showcasing the Pentire Peninsula's rugged beauty. This is one of the best coastal walks in Cornwall if you want a short but memorable journey through some of the region's different landscapes.
Find out moreThe walk takes you along the clifftops, past the legendary Polly Joke Beach, and then through some colourful poppy fields, giving you a good mix of scenery on the trail.
Par and Tywardreath
This 3.5-mile circular walk is a perfect blend of coastal and inland scenery. The Par and Tywardreath route takes you along the banks of the River Par and onto the Southwest Coast Path offering stunning views of the Gribbin Head. You will also see the Tywardreath Marsh nature reserve, an area protected by the National Trust where you can explore different wildlife and habitats on your walk.
Find out more
St Ives to Penzance
The St Ives to Penzance walk, a thrilling adventure for seasoned hikers, spans roughly 40 miles along the Southwest Coast Path, leading you to the second most southerly part of the UK. This popular but challenging walk offers the chance to experience some of Cornwall's most dramatic coastal scenery, including Sennen Cove, Cape Cornwall, and more.
Find out moreMake sure you've got the right accommodation—preferably a place to stay in St Ives—since your walk may take several days to complete, and you'll likely be using transport back and forth from the walking route to your accommodation.
Crantock
The Crantock walk, a serene 2.3-mile circular route, is a tranquil escape that showcases the unspoiled beauty of Crantock Beach and the surrounding countryside. This Cornwall coastal walk takes you through the picturesque village of Crantock and all along the sandy beach, where you can take some time to relax and enjoy all the magnificent views of the coast.
Find out moreAlso, Crantock Beach is dog-friendly all year round, so this is one of the best Cornish walking trails to bring your furry friend on.
Gwithian and Upton Towans
The Gwithian and Upton Towans walk is a 2.5-mile circular route that offers a unique blend of coastal and dune landscapes. The Gwithian and Upton Towans walk, a 2.5-mile circular route, is a perfect choice for a family adventure.
Find out moreAlong the sandy beaches of Gwithian, you'll be treated to views of St Ives Bay and the remains of the National Explosive Works—a fascinating sight that will surely leave a lasting impression on your kids.
Looe woodland, River and Coast
This 3-mile loop is a true feast for nature lovers, offering a glimpse into the vast wildlife found along Cornish walking trails in the UK. The Looe Woodland, River, and Coast route takes you exactly where the title says—through the scenic woodlands and along the banks of the River Looe before emerging onto the Southwest Coast Path.
Find out moreYou'll see a range of wildlife in the woodlands, and then you can compare them to the types of animals you see along the river – a great way to spend your day out in Cornwall.
Harbour Cove from Padstow
The Padstow to Harbour Cove walk is a moderate 3-mile circular route showcasing the River Camel's beauty and the rugged Cornish coastline. In addition, you'll be able to pass the Tudor Mansion of Prideaux Place, where you'll receive a dose of Cornish culture to take away from your trip.
Find out moreAlso, if you're staying at Retallack Resort, you'll only be around a 15-minute drive from where this walk starts.
Tintagel, Church and Castle
The Tintagel, Church and Castle walk, a 2.4-mile circular route, is a perfect blend of history and natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for a family adventure in Cornwall. This Cornwall coastal walk has many different highlights. It takes you through the legendary Tintagel Castle, past the historic St Materiana's Church, and along the rugged clifftops.
Find out moreWhy not take the kids on this walk past King Arthur's Great Halls, where they can imagine themselves as loyal Knights from the old days?
Stepper Point and the Doom Bar
Another one of the best coastal walks in Cornwall is the Stepper Point and the Doom Bar walk. This moderate 2.5-mile circular route offers a unique perspective on the Cornish coastline, where you'll see arches, collapsed caves, and islands—the perfect recipe for adventure.
Find out moreYou'll explore past the iconic Doom Bar and through the charming village of Padstow, offering stunning views of the Camel Estuary.
Sennen Cove and Land's End
The Sennen Cove and Land's End walk is a 3-mile journey to the iconic Land's End landmark, where you'll be more than excited to take some great family photos near this famous spot. But first, you'll get to experience the granite fishing harbour at Sennen Cove. With fishing still being a major part of Cornish culture, you and your family will quickly feel like locals.
Find out moreYou could even stop at the Porthgwarra Cove Café along your walk to refill on some delicious cakes, coffee, and other treats you're craving on your adventure.
St Agnes Beacon and Wheal Coates
Another must-see on your list of Cornish walking trails is the St Agnes Beacon and Wheal Coates walk. This 3-mile circular route showcases the rich mining heritage of Cornwall that resides at Wheal Coates. But another fantastic reason to enjoy this walk is the 360-degree panoramic views at St Agnes Beacon.
Find out moreIt's the perfect place to take a moment, breathe, and soak up the vast views over the beautiful Cornish countryside.
Tintagel Church to Trebarwith Strand
Ending our list of the best Cornwall coastal walks is the Tintagel Church to Trebarwith Strand walk. Another moderate 3-mile route, this walk combines the natural views of the coast with some of Cornwall's most intriguing history.
Find out moreNot only will you get breathtaking views from Penhallic Point, but you can also visit the ancient St Materiana Church, which provides a unique setting—blending ancient architecture with coastal beauty.
Cornish coastal walks FAQs
If you want to know a bit more about Cornwall coastal walks, these are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding Cornish walking trails:
Where does the Cornish Coastal Path start and end?
The Cornish Coastal Path is a part of the larger South West Coast Path, a National Trail stretching 630 miles along the stunning coastline of Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset. In Cornwall, the Coastal Path starts near the village of Marsland Mouth and ends at Rame Head, near the border with Devon.
How long does it take to walk the Cornish Coast Path?
The Cornish Coast Path covers approximately 300 miles, and the time it takes to complete it can vary greatly depending on several factors. However, the average hiker takes around 4-6 weeks to complete it if hiking for 6-8 hours daily.
What is the best coastal walk in Cornwall?
With so many stunning coastal walks in Cornwall, picking just one as the best is challenging. However, a few walks which consistently rank among the top favourites are:
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St Ives to Penzance
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Tintagel, Church and Castle
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Park Head and Pentire Steps
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Land's End
Explore the Cornish coast like never before!
Few places in the UK offer a holiday in the great outdoors, like Cornwall. With so many fantastic coastal walks, you'll be in for the trip of a lifetime, exploring gorgeous beaches, towering cliffs, hidden coves, and treasured historical sites.
So, all that's left to do now is book yourself into one of the best Holiday parks in Cornwall. You'll be in the heart of the beautiful county, ready to experience some of the nicest coastal walks the UK has to offer.
Where will you be exploring in Cornwall first?