The best walks and hikes in Cornwall

Embark on the Land's End loops from Porthcurno, a moderate hike spanning 10.3 miles (16.6 km) with an elevation gain of 980 feet (299 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 36 minutes to complete. You will experience dramatic coastal scenery along the South West Coast Path, featuring granite cliffs, rocky headlands, and stunning beaches like Porthcurno Beach and the secluded Pedn Vounder. The route also guides you through peaceful inland countryside lanes, offering a diverse and engaging hiking experience.

While generally considered moderate, be prepared for a path that is very "twisty and up and down" with many ascents and descents, especially along the coastal sections. Some parts, like the descent to Porthcurno Beach, can be steep and rocky. Good fitness is recommended, and care is needed in wet weather as conditions can be slippery. The trail is accessible from Porthcurno, a village known for its beautiful beach and the iconic Minack Theatre carved into the cliffs.

This area is rich in natural beauty and history, designated as a coastal Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its biodiversity. You can spot various bird species and maritime vegetation. Porthcurno itself holds historical significance as a hub for international communications, being the British end of the first submarine cables to India in 1870. Along the path, you might also discover ancient artifacts like a Bronze Age tumulus near Bosistow Island.

The Lizard Coastal Walk offers a moderate hiking experience along the southernmost tip of mainland Britain. You will traverse dramatic cliff-top paths, discover turquoise waters, and encounter unique rock formations, including those around the iconic Kynance Cove. This route covers 6.9 miles (11.0 km) with an elevation gain of 578 feet (176 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 1 minute to complete. Expect varied terrain, from sandy beaches to stony sections, providing a dynamic coastal adventure.

When planning your hike, be aware that the varied terrain includes some slopes and steps, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. While parts of the trail are fairly level, other sections near cliff edges require extra care. You can find parking options conveniently located in Lizard village. Public transport to Lizard Point is also available, making the starting point accessible for many visitors. Consider starting early to enjoy the views without crowds, especially during peak season.

This section of the South West Coast Path is notable for its consistently dramatic scenery within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will pass by iconic landmarks like the Lizard Lighthouse, offering a glimpse into maritime history. The area is also famous for its distinctive serpentine rocks and tidal pools, particularly visible at Kynance Cove. The trail provides numerous viewpoints showcasing the rugged natural features of the Lizard Peninsula, making it a prime example of Cornwall's unique coastal geology.

Embark on the Padstow to Trevone loop, a moderate hike spanning 7.5 miles (12.1 km) with an elevation gain of 486 feet (148 metres), typically taking 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. This route treats you to panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil Camel Estuary. As you hike, you'll navigate varied terrain, from dedicated paths to rugged sections beyond Gun Point, passing golden sandy beaches like Trevone Bay and Hawker's Cove. The path undulates with ascents and descents along cliff tops, offering a true taste of Cornwall's dramatic coastline.

Starting from the charming fishing town of Padstow, this loop requires good fitness due to its moderate difficulty and varied ground underfoot. You should wear sturdy footwear to handle the diverse surfaces, which include footpaths, some road stretches, and sandy dunes. Trevone Bay, a key point on the route, offers convenient facilities such as toilets, a cafe, and a shop, making it a good spot for a break. Be prepared for uneven sections, especially beyond Gun Point, to fully enjoy the experience.

This quintessential Cornish coastal walk beautifully combines natural grandeur with historical and geological points of interest. You will encounter the prominent Stepper Point Daymark, a historical navigational beacon offering expansive views. The route also passes the impressive Trevone Roundhole, a natural collapsed sea-cave, and provides views of the infamous Doom Bar sand bank at the mouth of the Camel Estuary. The dramatic coastline features towering cliffs, unique rock formations, and an abundance of coastal wildlife and wildflowers.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Polperro to Looe Coast Path, a 9.5-mile (15.3 km) route that takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes to complete. You will gain 642 feet (196 metres) in elevation as you traverse rugged coastal terrain, offering expansive views of the English Channel. Keep an eye out for Looe Island as you make your way between these picturesque Cornish fishing villages. The trail provides a true sense of the region's natural beauty and seaside charm.

For your visit, be prepared for uneven and potentially boggy sections, especially after rain; sturdy hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended. Public transport is convenient, with buses connecting Polperro and Looe, and Looe itself is accessible by train. You will find cafes and pubs in both Polperro and Looe, as well as at Talland Bay, perfect for a break or refreshment.

This section of the South West Coast Path offers more than just scenic views; it's a chance to spot local wildlife like seals and various bird species. The route also passes by historic sites, including an early Christian holy site, adding a layer of cultural interest to your journey. Enjoy the unique blend of natural beauty and heritage that defines this coastal adventure.

Embark on an easy coastal hike along The Lizard Coastal Walk, a route that spans 3.9 miles (6.3 km) and features 367 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this scenic journey in about 1 hour and 44 minutes. As you follow the path, you will encounter varied terrain, from sandy stretches to rugged cliff-top sections, all while enjoying views of the dramatic Cornish coastline. The highlight for many is Kynance Cove, known for its striking turquoise waters and unique rock formations, offering a truly memorable visual experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the route is generally easy, some parts of the trail can be uneven underfoot. After rain, certain sections may become muddy, so appropriate footwear is advisable. Always exercise caution near cliff edges, as some areas may not have guardrails. If you decide to descend to beaches like Kynance Cove, prepare for steep steps that require careful navigation.

This route takes you through the Cornwall National Landscape, an area celebrated for its natural beauty and unique geology. You might spot local wildlife, including seals or various migratory birds, adding to the experience. The area is particularly notable for its rare serpentinite rocks, which contribute to the distinctive landscape. The trail also leads you to Lizard Point, marking Britain's most southerly point, a significant landmark to visit.

Embark on the Hall Walk, a moderate hiking route that winds through diverse landscapes offering views of Fowey Harbour and its estuary. This 4.8-mile (7.8 km) trail, with an elevation gain of 448 feet (137 metres), takes about 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete. You will experience quiet country lanes and dense woodland, eventually reaching the ancient fishing village of Polruan. The route also features the peaceful, wooded waters of Pont Pill Tidal Creek, providing a serene atmosphere. Expect uneven footpaths and some short, steep climbs as you explore this scenic path.

Planning your hike on the Hall Walk involves a unique element: two ferry rides are essential to complete this circular route. These ferry crossings connect charming waterside villages like Bodinnick, adding to the adventure. Be aware that the terrain includes rocky sections and can become slippery underfoot during wet periods. For your comfort and safety, substantial walking boots are highly advisable for this trail.

This trail is nestled within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, highlighting its significant natural appeal. The Hall Walk is notable for connecting several charming waterside villages, offering a glimpse into the local coastal life. Its blend of coastal views, woodland paths, and historic villages makes it a distinctive experience in the region. You will find various viewpoints along the way, perfect for enjoying the scenery.

Embark on the St Anthony Head & Percuil River loop from Portscatho, a moderate hike spanning 9.7 miles (15.6 km) with an elevation gain of 578 feet (176 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 9 minutes to complete. This scenic route guides you through diverse landscapes, from coastal paths offering panoramic views of Falmouth Bay and Carrick Roads to tranquil woodlands and fields alongside the Percuil River. You will encounter sandy beaches like Molunan and Towan, and pass by iconic landmarks such as St Anthony Lighthouse, making for a varied and engaging experience.

When planning your visit, be prepared for uneven ground, steep slopes, steps, and stiles along the trail. Some sections may become muddy after wet weather, so appropriate footwear is advisable. If you are hiking with a dog, be aware that assistance might be needed at a stile with a steep descent, and you will pass through fields where cattle graze. The trail is particularly beautiful in spring, when gorse, wild garlic, and bluebells are in bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.

The St Anthony Head area is a designated National Trust property and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, historically significant for guarding Falmouth Harbor. As you hike, you will discover 19th-century artillery batteries and other fortifications that played roles in both World Wars, with evidence of defenses dating back to the Iron Age. Keep an eye out for wildlife; the area is known for seals, porpoises, various dolphin species, and a rich diversity of birds, offering excellent opportunities for nature spotting.

Embark on The Lizard Coastal Walk, a moderate hiking adventure that traces the southernmost tip of mainland Britain. This route spans 8.7 miles (14.1 km) with an elevation gain of 692 feet (211 metres), offering dramatic cliff-top views and glimpses of secluded coves. You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 50 minutes, immersing yourself in the wild beauty of the Cornish coastline, where the path often winds past unique serpentine rock formations and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail features varied terrain, including some rougher sections with slopes and steps. It can also become muddy after rain, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential for a comfortable hike. While some parts are easily accessible, many sections require careful footing. Parking is generally available near popular starting points, such as Lizard Point, making it convenient to begin your exploration.

This impressive section of the South West Coast Path is renowned for its unique geology and diverse wildlife. As you hike, you might spot distinctive serpentine rock formations, particularly around Kynance Cove, known for its striking turquoise waters. The area is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a rich ecosystem and a chance to experience the raw, untamed character of the British coastline.

Embark on the Church Cove, Lizard Point & Kynance Cove loop, a moderate hike along the South West Coast Path. This route covers 10.0 miles (16.0 km) with an elevation gain of 780 feet (238 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 22 minutes to complete. You will experience rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and white sand beaches like Kynance Cove, known for its unique serpentine rock formations and clear turquoise waters. Expect steep ascents and descents, narrow steps, and potentially uneven paths, especially near Housel Bay.

To make the most of your visit, consider timing your hike to explore Kynance Cove at low tide, which reveals hidden caves and the full extent of the beach. The trail demands good fitness and sure-footedness, so be prepared for challenging sections with steep drops and rocky descents. During summer months, you might encounter grazing cattle in fields along the route. This hike is best enjoyed when you are ready for a dynamic coastal adventure.

This trail is notable for including Lizard Point, the southernmost tip of mainland Britain, offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean. You will also discover natural wonders like the Devil's Frying Pan and historical sites such as the Lizard Wireless Station and Marconi Memorial. The entire area is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing its significant scenic value with rare Cornish heath and opportunities to spot seals and various seabirds.