Cornwall is a stunning county in southern England, comprising exceptional coastal vistas, picturesque towns and villages, fascinating historical sites and much more. This lovely part of the UK is also one of the biggest regions in the country, creating plenty of space for visitors to explore.
You will find plenty to do here, so it comes as no surprise that so many choose Cornwall when seeking a serene getaway. This is the perfect place for seaside enthusiasts, keen foodies and anyone looking to relax in a tranquil setting. Whatever you plan to do during your break, there is something for everyone here.
For those seeking the best walks in Cornwall, the region won’t disappoint. With so many trails to choose from, you will find yourself needing more time just to experience them all. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends or your partner, keep reading to learn more about the best hiking routes in the region alongside the top things to do.
This beautiful route takes you along the Bude Canal and Coast, comprising excellent waterside views and much of Cornwall’s pretty countryside. There are plenty of shops and cafes along the way, providing the ideal place to rest whilst on your hike.
Enjoy encounters with some of Cornwall’s best wildlife, such as herons, egrets and other lovely species. You will also find some great sandy shores on the Bude Canal and Coast trail, allowing for some time to be spent by the sea.
Be sure to check out the outstanding Bude Castle where you can learn more about Cornwall’s rich history and heritage. This is also a great way to explore with the whole family, as there are plenty of fascinating facts to be uncovered here. It is also considered a fairly easy route, perfect for little legs!
Begin your voyage along the Tintagel to Bossiney route at the visitor’s centre. Journey past King Arthur’s Great Hall towards Tintagel Castle. Stop off here to enjoy the breathtaking coastal vistas, alongside the chance to learn more about the history of the castle.
Once you have spent some time marvelling over the ancient castle at Tintagel, continue your walk along the coast to Barras Nose. Be sure to spend some time taking in the sights at the Iron Age hillfort and the beautiful rugged cliffs that line the shore.
There is also an attractive beach at Bossiney Haven, the perfect place to relax and unwind or spend some time with the whole family. This route then loops back to Tintagel where you can finish your journey with a bite to eat in one of the cafes, or perhaps fish and chips by the sea!
The route is considered to be of a moderate walking level, so it’s important to wear appropriate hiking shoes. We also recommend packing some warm clothing and waterproofs, depending on the time of year you choose to visit Cornwall.
If you’re hoping to spend some time in Cornwall immersing yourself in the beautiful coastal villages, Gorran Haven to Mevagissey is an ideal walking route. Along the way, you have the opportunity to soak up lovely fishing towns with plenty of independent shops and cafes to stop off at.
Gorran Haven also has some exceptional sandy shores worth exploring, with golden sands and beautiful waters. As you make your way from Gorran Haven to Mevagissey, there is plenty of lovely countryside to admire. Watch as cows graze in the lush greenery and idyllic white houses line the shore.
Stop off at Portmellon where you can enjoy rock pooling or a drink in the quaint countryside pub. As you continue to Mevagissey, you will discover a place with picturesque, winding streets, excellent fish and chips, and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.
The route requires hikers to return the way they came, meaning this isn’t one of the circular walks in Cornwall. However, this provides you with even more time to soak up the natural beauty of the area once again.
The Lizard to Kynance Cove trail is one of the best coastal walks in Cornwall. Along the way, you have multiple chances to soak up all that the attractive coastline has to offer. Take in the robust cliffs that tower over the sea and enjoy the beauty of the immaculate sandy shores.
Be sure to spend some time at the beachfront on Kynance Cove, here you can relax in utter serenity as the waves lap against the shore. With golden sands and turquoise waters, tourists often feel as though they are on a tropical island when visiting here.
Depending on the time of year you choose to hike from Lizard to Kynance Cove, will also determine the landscapes. Spring presents beautiful flora and fauna along the route, with wildflowers creating pretty colours and scenery throughout.
The walk from Lizard to Kynance Cove is considered to be a moderate difficulty. With this in mind, you must wear suitable hiking footwear and pack appropriate clothing depending on the weather.
For those looking to challenge themselves when trying out the best walks in Cornwall, Rough Tor and Brown Willy is an excellent route to try. The trail takes visitors up Rough Tor by Holy Well and along the ridge of Showery Tor.
When reaching the summit of Rough Tor, take some time to admire the breathtaking views across Cornwall’s stunning landscapes. Upon descent, you will find yourself in a pretty valley before continuing the climb up Brown Willy. This is also the highest point in the region, allowing for even more spectacular views of the surrounding scenery.
When circling back, you will pass through ancient settlements, allowing hikers to soak up some of the history and heritage of the area. There are also some exceptional naturally sculptured granite formations at the top of Showery Tor. This is a great hike to enjoy much of Cornwall’s natural beauty and fascinating past.
As you walk alongside the River Camel from the lovely town of Wadebridge, you will discover plenty of wildlife and magical surroundings. This gentle trek is also perfect for anyone seeking the best dog walks in Cornwall, as your furry companion can enjoy this trail beside you.
Head to Treraven Farm and into the lovely village of Burlawn. From here the path will take you into a pretty woodland with a stream that leads hikers to Hustyn Mill. This is a great way to soak up some of the older buildings in the region, alongside flora and fauna in abundance.
From Hustyn Mill, the route continues through Polbrock Bridge, onto the Camel Trail and back into Wadebridge. With lovely riverside vistas, woodlands full of wildflowers and views across the Camel Valley, this is a great way to spend some time outdoors in Cornwall.
The trail from Perranporth to St Agnes is one of the more quiet walks in Cornwall. This allows hikers to soak up the surrounding nature in complete tranquillity, perfect for anyone looking to disconnect. Begin your voyage in the lovely town of Perranporth, here you will find a beautiful beach with rugged cliffs that line the shore. This is an excellent way to start your adventure along this lovely coastal path.
Make your way to Droskyn Point, where you will discover some of the old mining industry, a great way to uncover more of the region’s history. Be sure to look down along the path where you will encounter caves and paths that wind in and out of the cliffs.
With the beautiful sandy shores of Perranporth along the route, alongside an old airfield, there are plenty of places to stop off along the way. After you have spent some time looking at the aircraft shelters, continue your journey to Trevellas Cove. Here you can spend some time relishing in the raw, rugged beauty before climbing back up Blue Hills to St Agnes.
For those seeking some of the most beautiful walks in Cornwall, the stroll from Boscastle to Minster Church is worth checking out. Begin your adventure at Boscastle Harbour where you can follow the River Valency to the Valency Valley.
The route then takes you into Minster Valley where you will find the ancient Minster Church perched at the top. This provides a beautiful setting for all as you take in the old building in all its glory. Continue through Jordan Valley and stop off at the oldest pub in Boscastle for a drink.
After you have grabbed a refreshment, the valley descends into Fore Street and Old Street. These historic lanes were once Boscastles main road, today they provide a lovely place for visitors to wander through. A stroll from Boscastle to Minster Church provides you with a historic fishing village, pretty riverside strolls and lovely woodland adventures.
There is also an ancient church to explore, alongside some great places to grab a drink – ideal for anyone pursuing walks in Cornwall with pubs!
If you’re pursuing excellent scenery, lovely dunes and exceptional coastlines, the walk from Rock to Polzeath is the place to be. This is a great way to enjoy the region’s lovely landscapes, all whilst visiting one of Cornwall’s most popular beaches.
Start your journey in Rock, where you will follow the dunes to Daymer Bay and Trebetherick Point. Here you can take in the impressive ship wreckage that is scattered around the area. Once you have marvelled over the vessel, join The Greenway path to Polzeath. Take some time to enjoy the lovely hidden coves along the way, the perfect place to rest on the trail.
Upon returning to Rock, you will follow the stream up the valley, crossing golf courses and fields to Enodoc Church and onto Rock. This whole route is an excellent way to take in much of Cornwall’s changing landscapes. From sandy coves to mighty dunes and historical buildings, there is something for all along this trek.
It’s safe to say that Cornwall has plenty of excellent walks for a range of visitors to enjoy. There are also some excellent walking apps like the iwalk Cornwall app, here you can find routes and walking guides using GPS. With coastal paths, dense woodlands, pretty rivers and challenging climbs, there is something for all when choosing to hike here. There are also many great attractions along the routes, with idyllic towns, historical sites and surfing beaches all worth checking out.
No matter where you choose to walk in Cornwall, you’re bound to find a county brimming with lush scenery and lots to see and do. Whether you’re seeking a gentle stroll or something a little tougher, you will find it all here. This makes the region an ideal destination for families, friends and couples alike.
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