Top 10 Walks In Cornwall

Written by Paul Gent in Places to WalkLast Updated January 30, 2025

top 10 walks in cornwall
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Cornwall, located in the far southwest of England, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, dramatic coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Famous for its golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming fishing villages, Cornwall is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking to connect with nature.

The county’s vast network of coastal paths, particularly the South West Coast Path, provides unparalleled walking opportunities along cliffs and coves with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether walking along serene beaches or across windswept moors, Cornwall offers an abundance of diverse and stunning scenery.

The county is also steeped in history, with ancient stone circles, mining heritage, and historic sites like Tintagel Castle, famously associated with the legend of King Arthur.

The Cornish coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its mining landscape and unique biodiversity. From the spectacular granite cliffs of Land’s End to the tranquil waters of the Camel Estuary, Cornwall offers some of the finest walking trails in the UK. Its variety of terrain, from coastal paths to tranquil woodlands, means there’s a perfect walk for every type of adventurer.

Whether you’re looking for a short, scenic stroll or a challenging trek, Cornwall’s natural beauty will leave you inspired.

The 10 Walks In Cornwall

1. South West Coast Path (St Ives to Zennor)

  • Start/End Point: St Ives / Zennor
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.7 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, rugged paths
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Notable Landmark: Wild Atlantic coastline views

A spectacular section of the South West Coast Path with dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and breathtaking ocean views.

2. Lizard Point Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Lizard Village Car Park
  • Distance: 7 miles (11.3 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal paths, grassy trails
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Lizard Point (Britain’s southernmost point)

Explore Cornwall’s rugged coastline, iconic Lizard Point lighthouse, and scenic coves on this exhilarating coastal walk.

3. Bodmin Moor and Rough Tor Walk

  • Start/End Point: Rough Tor Car Park
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Moorland, rocky paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Rough Tor summit

A wild and atmospheric walk across Bodmin Moor, leading to the summit of Rough Tor with sweeping views of the moorland.

4. Land’s End to Sennen Cove Walk

  • Start/End Point: Land’s End / Sennen Cove
  • Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, well-maintained paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Land’s End Arch

A short but iconic coastal walk between Land’s End and Sennen Cove, offering breathtaking ocean views and rugged landscapes.

5. Fowey Hall Walk

  • Start/End Point: Fowey Quay
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Riverside paths, woodland trails
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Pont Pill Creek

A peaceful riverside and woodland walk around the picturesque town of Fowey, offering tranquility and beautiful views.

6. St Michael’s Mount Causeway Walk

  • Start/End Point: Marazion / St Michael’s Mount
  • Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
  • Terrain: Tidal causeway
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: St Michael’s Mount

A magical walk across the tidal causeway to the iconic island of St Michael’s Mount, accessible during low tide.

7. Tintagel Castle Walk

  • Start/End Point: Tintagel Castle Car Park
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal paths, steep steps
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Tintagel Castle ruins

A historical coastal walk to explore the legendary Tintagel Castle, linked to King Arthur, and enjoy stunning sea views.

8. Holywell Bay Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Holywell Bay Car Park
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Sandy paths, dunes
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Holywell Bay and Gull Rock

A relaxing coastal walk with sandy trails, towering dunes, and views of the dramatic Gull Rock offshore.

9. The Camel Trail (Wadebridge to Padstow)

  • Start/End Point: Wadebridge / Padstow
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Flat, former railway path
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Camel Estuary

A gentle, family-friendly walk along the Camel Trail, following the estuary to the bustling fishing village of Padstow.

10. Kynance Cove Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Kynance Cove Car Park
  • Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, grassy paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Kynance Cove

A stunning coastal walk around one of Cornwall’s most beautiful coves, with turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations.

Summary – Top 10 Walks in Cornwall

We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Cornwall. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.

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