West Kernow Way Part 2

The West Kernow Way is designed as a circular route starting and ending in Penzance, which is easily accessible by train. Parking options would typically be found in Penzance or other towns along the route, depending on where you choose to begin your section of the journey. Specific parking facilities are not detailed for this segment, but public parking is available in Cornish towns.

While the route uses quiet country lanes, dedicated cycle paths, and bridleways, it also includes off-road sections and passes through moorland and potentially sensitive areas. If cycling with a dog, ensure it is well-behaved and kept on a lead, especially near livestock or on narrow trails. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or private land sections.

Spring is an excellent time to cycle the route, as the coastlines teem with wildlife and wildflowers. The granite geology means the trail isn't heavily impacted by bad weather, but moorland areas can become sticky when wet. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but can be busier. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in Cornwall.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle the West Kernow Way Part 2 itself. However, the route passes through the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site, which is free to access. Individual attractions or historical sites along the way, such as Levant Mine and Beam Engine or Botallack Mines, may have their own entrance fees if you choose to visit them.

The route offers a diverse mix of terrain, including quiet country lanes, dedicated cycle paths, and bridleways. You'll encounter significant off-road sections ranging from smooth grass to loose rock, narrow singletrack sheep trails over moors, and rutted singletrack. Some parts, especially on loose rocky climbs or very wet moorland, may require pushing your bike. The route also incorporates enjoyable old mining trails.

This is considered an exciting and challenging route, recommended for those with good cycling skills and a reasonable level of fitness. Cycling UK classifies it as a 'Blue' difficulty rating, meaning it's moderate and suitable for cyclists with some off-road experience. Cornwall is notoriously hilly, with numerous steep climbs and descents, so a good level of fitness is required.

The route is rich in both natural beauty and industrial history. You'll encounter spectacular clifftop gravel tracks, sandy hidden coves, and remote inland moors. Key historical highlights include crumbling engine houses and tin mines, such as the Levant Mine and Beam Engine, Botallack Mines, and Wheal Edwards Beam Engine House. The scenery also features well-known Cornish sights like Land's End and the Lizard Point, alongside quieter areas.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. Approximately 78% of this segment is part of the main West Kernow Way. You will also find it overlapping with parts of the South West Coast Path (Section 22: Pendeen to Sennen Cove) for about 32% of its length, as well as smaller sections of Devil's Lane (6%) and Kenython Lane (6%), and Botallack Lane (5%).

Yes, the demanding nature of the ride provides a great excuse to sample excellent Cornish cuisine. You'll find many foodie stops along the way, offering local delights like pasties and cream teas. The route passes through sleepy fishing villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and various accommodation options, from B&Bs to guesthouses.

Given the mixed terrain, a gravel bike with wide tires (35mm or wider) or a lightweight hardtail mountain bike is highly recommended. These bikes will provide the necessary comfort and capability for the quiet country lanes, dedicated cycle paths, and the more challenging off-road sections, including loose rock and singletrack.

Navigation on the route requires a keen eye due to the complex landscape. While the route is designed by Cycling UK, using a reliable GPS device or the komoot app with the route downloaded is highly advisable to stay on track, especially on the more remote or less clearly marked off-road sections.

Due to its 'Blue' difficulty rating, significant off-road sections, and numerous steep climbs, the full West Kernow Way Part 2 is generally not recommended for young children or beginner family cyclists. However, experienced families with strong cycling skills and appropriate bikes might enjoy specific, less challenging segments. It's best suited for those with some off-road cycling experience.