Hiking in Cornwall is a sheer delight anytime throughout the year. From breathtaking clifftop views to hidden coves, ancient villages, and rural heathland, the coastal walks in Cornwall are as diverse as they are beautiful.
Cornwall is one of my favorite destinations thanks to its stunning beaches, excellent surfing spots, charming fishing villages, and endless unspoiled coastal paths. I’ve been hiking here since childhood and keep coming back for more. There are numerous trails ranging from simple day hikes to extended multi-day treks.
Whether you choose coastal footpaths, inland routes, or a bit of both, Cornwall is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of spots to grab refreshments and find accommodations along the hiking routes.
Over the years, I’ve explored countless trails in Cornwall and have compiled a list of my top 10 favorites, based on ease of access, level of difficulty, crowd levels, scenic views, wildlife, and overall enjoyment.
Cornwall’s hiking trails also offer chances to spot wildlife. I’ve seen basking sharks, seals, kingfishers, and other marine life during my hikes. Sometimes, you might even glimpse whales and dolphins from the clifftops.
One of my favorite hikes is from Polzeath to Port Isaac. This 10-mile trail offers rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and incredible views, ending in the picturesque fishing village of Port Isaac. It’s moderately strenuous but manageable for anyone relatively fit, taking around 4-5 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll see landmarks such as Pentire Point, the Rumps, and the abandoned village of Port Quinn. It’s best to hike this route in summer while wearing sunscreen and good hiking boots or shoes.
The Camel Trail is an 18-mile track that follows an old railway line and the River Camel between Bodmin and Padstow. This flat terrain is perfect for both cyclists and walkers. The 6-mile section between Padstow and Wadebridge is an excellent day hike, offering lots of picnic spots along the way. This easy route is suitable for all fitness levels.
Another fantastic hike starts and finishes in Padstow. This circular walk features coastal and inland sections, passing through cliffs, bays, farmland, and Padstow town. It’s moderately strenuous and best enjoyed from spring to fall. It’s also a great trail for those with dogs and kids accustomed to hiking.
For winter hikes, the short route from Penzance to Newlyn is perfect. It’s not as exposed as northern paths and includes highlights like the Celtic chapel, Victorian tropical gardens, and Penzance seafront. Suitable for all fitness levels, this walk is lovely in any weather.
To explore more of Cornwall’s southern coastline, you can follow the path east to Marazion and St Michael’s Mount. Penzance makes an excellent base for these walks.
The Lizard peninsula offers some of Cornwall’s most scenic views, featuring rugged cliffs and rare wildlife. Starting and finishing at Kynance Cove, this 7-mile walk includes beach and clifftop paths. During summer, pack swimwear to enjoy the beaches and savor a hearty meal in Lizard town.
For breathtaking coastal views, the Land’s End to Porthcurno route is a must. This easy trail starts at Land’s End and heads to Porthcurno beach, one of Cornwall’s most beautiful spots. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, the route can be walked again by taking a bus back.
The Bude coastline and canal circular walk showcases one of Cornwall’s popular vacation spots. Featuring coastal views and the charming canals, this route is excellent for exploring this part of Cornwall.
St Ives is another top destination for hiking, offering a 12-mile moderately tough route with spectacular views. The town’s artsy vibe adds to the experience, making the effort truly rewarding.
Tintagel is famous for its historic castle and stunning coastlines. This challenging hike includes the castle, Merlin’s Cave, secluded bays, and a waterfall at St Nectan’s Kieve. Suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, this route offers historical landmarks and amazing views.
For those seeking a significant challenge, the 630-mile Southwest Coast Path is the ultimate hike, running from Somerset through Devon and Cornwall, into Dorset. If you don’t have seven or eight weeks to complete it, exploring segments at a time is just as rewarding.
Some other favorite hiking bases in Cornwall include Padstow, Port Isaac, Polzeath, Penzance, and Bude. Each of these locations offers great facilities and access to some of the best trails in Cornwall.
Overall, Cornwall is one of the best places in the UK for hiking due to its natural beauty, rich wildlife, and historical sites. Whether you’re up for a leisurely stroll, a demanding hike, or anything in-between, the trails in Cornwall are sure to impress. So, which coastal walk will you choose first?
