Walking is one of the most popular things to do in Cornwall, and for good reason. There are so many gorgeous places in this corner of South-west England in which to immerse yourself, whether you want to wander by the waves and along clifftops or head deep into the countryside with its moorland and wooded valleys. Check out our guide to the best Cornwall walks, in spring, summer, autumn and winter alike.
Magwan Porth–St Magwan (circular path)
Starting from the former Saxon settlement of Mawgan Porth, home to The Park Cornwall and The Kitchen by the Beach, it’s an upriver walk towards Retorrick Mill, crossing into the Menalhyl Valley then taking woodland paths to Windsor Mill. Reaching St Mawgan, you’ll cross the River Menalhyl to reach a medieval church. Afterwards, return to Mawgan Porth via the Vale of Lanherne with its wildflower- and wildlife-rich meadows. In spring, this is a great place to pick wild garlic.
Watergate Bay–Porth (circular path), 4km from The Kitchen by the Beach
Glorious Atlantic views (and sunsets if you go later in the day) await those who follow the coastal path between the surfing beach of Watergate Bay north of Newquay and the charming seaside village and cove of Porth, once a small ship-building port.
Near by walks - drive up and park, discover the great walks around:
Luxulyan, 11km Drive away from The Kitchen by the Beach
One of Cornwall’s most compelling former industrial sites, this tiny village of granite cottages tucked away in a wooded valley with moss-covered granite boulders and a rushing river is maintained by a local charity. There’s a viaduct over the Par dating from the era when trams and trains ferried minerals through this valley for export, plus overgrown gear wheels – remnants of the one-time water wheel.
Camel Trail (Wadebridge–Padstow section), 19km from The Kitchen by the Beach
Best known as a cycle route, this flat 9km path takes you along a former railway line along the River Camel and has gorgeous views over the estuary. Reward yourself with a fishy feast from Stein’s Fish & Chips on South Quay.
Lanhydrock Respryn Ramble (circular walk), 32km from The Kitchen by the Beach
The National Trust's Lanhydrock estate with its ancient woodland and plentiful wildlife is the venue for this lovely walk from Respryn car park, taking in delightful scenery along the River Fowey. Don’t miss the cosy café with its log-burner – perfect for winter walks.
Cardinham Woods, 37km from The Kitchen by the Beach
With walking trails ranging from from easy routes for beginners to steep valley climbs rewarding you with fabulous views, this green spot is perfect for stretching your legs as well as for picnics.
Bodmin Moor, about 38km from The Kitchen by the Beach
The wildest and least-populated part of Cornwall is wonderful for rugged hikes, with marked routes taking you between granite tors and past moorland ponies. Don’t miss Golitha Falls with its spectacular cascades and waterfalls along a section of the River Fowey.
Kennall Vale Nature Reserve, 39km from The Kitchen by the Beach
This pretty woodland is of great importance both archaeologically and from a wildlife perspective. Once the site of a gunpowder factory, it’s now dotted with granite ruins swathed in moss that make a walk here feel like a proper adventure. Along the way you may spot dippers as well as unusual and rare species such as the greater horseshoe bat.
Tehidy Country Park, 39km from The Kitchen by the Beach
West Cornwall’s most extensive area of woodland has more than 14km of paths threaded through 250 acres, with lakes to explore en route and plenty of enticing picnic spots.
