Best Walks in Cornwall in 2026
Activities in Cornwall
Consisting of a dramatic landscape made up of rocky, jagged, and mist-covered shores, Cornwall is a fantastic destination to explore an ancient part of Britain that is steeped in natural beauty and cultural history. Well-known for its mild climate and seaside resort towns, much of the region is accessible by foot year-round, making it an ideal place to get off the beaten path on your next great walking excursion.
Countless day-walks can be found in the region that cater to all skill levels and will take you to interesting historical or cultural sites like Tintagel Castle (said to be the birthplace of the legendary King Arthur) or Land’s End (the southwesternmost part of England). For those walkers that want a taste of the extreme, 531.1 km of the 1,013.9 km long South West Coast Path - the longest national trail in the UK - can be found in Cornwall, offering a physically challenging and strikingly beautiful way to experience the Cornish coast. Whether you are a beginner walker or a seasoned adventurer, you can rest assured that you will find the perfect trail on your next walking journey in Cornwall.
What’s New for Walking in Cornwall in 2026
Cornwall remains one of the best year-round walking regions in England, but 2026 visitors should plan around coastal weather, busy summer villages and muddy inland paths after rain. The mild climate makes short routes around Port Isaac and woodland walks like Ladock Woods appealing in most seasons, while the South West Coast Path sections are best tackled with sturdy footwear and enough time for transport at the end of one-way walks. Search demand is especially strong for Port Wenn, the fictional Doc Martin name for Port Isaac, so the Port Isaac route should be kept visible on this page without treating Port Wenn as the official village name.
Best Walks in Cornwall by Type
Family-Friendly Walks in Cornwall
- Ladock Woods Circular Walk is a short woodland route near Ladock that suits families who want a quick forest loop, although waterproof boots are helpful after rain.
- Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk follows the edge of Stithians Reservoir, mixing waterside views, fields and marshland for a relaxed day out with plenty of scenery.
- Porth Reservoir Walk is another gentle waterside option near Newquay, with lake views, woodland and countryside in one easy route.
Half-Day Walks in Cornwall
- Port Isaac Circular Walk is the best route for the Port Wenn and Portwenn search demand, looping around the real village of Port Isaac, the filming location for Doc Martin.
- Polruan and Lantic Bay Circular Walk packs Cornish coast drama into a moderate half-day loop, with Lantic Bay views and a finish in the waterside village of Polruan.
- Clay Trails and Menacuddle Well Walk is a good St Austell option that links woodland, river paths and the historic Menacuddle Well in about two hours.
Full-Day Walks in Cornwall
- Penrose and Porthleven Walk blends the Penrose Estate, open farmland and the Porthleven coast for a longer outing that still feels accessible.
- South West Coast Path: Crackington Haven to Tintagel is a tougher full-day coastal stage for walkers who want cliffs, sea views and a classic approach to Tintagel.
Walking Near Cornwall
If you are continuing along the southwest coast, the natural next stop is walking in Devon, where coastal paths, Dartmoor, Exmoor and river valleys extend the same southwest England walking trip. For a wider view, browse our walks in England or plan further afield with our guide to hiking in the United Kingdom.
Cornwall Walking Tours
Prefer to have the route planned and your bags moved for you? Explore our self-guided walking tours in Southern England, which include Cornwall and the South West Coast Path, or go straight to the Lizard Peninsula Walking Tour for a Cornwall-specific self-guided walking holiday. And for the wider country, there’s nothing like a self-guided walking tour in England to string together its classic long-distance trails.
Other Outdoor Activities in Cornwall
Cornwall is best known on 10Adventures for walking, but the wider southwest is also strong for active holidays by bike. If you want to add cycling to a walking trip, browse Southern England bike tours and choose a regional route that fits your itinerary.
Displaying 40 of 126 routes
Route guides for Hiking in Cornwall
0 hours
144 hours
0 km85 km
0
5
0
10
South West Coast Path: Bude to Crackington Haven Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Bude to Crackington Haven is a fun and beautifully scenic adventure that will allow you to experience the coastal areas of Cornwall. While out on the trail, you will traverse the rugged coastal landscape and make your way through the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are a few steep climbs along the route; however, these are short lived, making the walk suitable for beginners and casuals that are after a bit of a challenge.
South West Coast Path: Crackington Haven to Tintagel Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Crackington Haven to Tintagel is a beautifully scenic portion of a much longer trail that will take you around the southwest corner of England. While out on the trail, you will enjoy views of the Cornish coastline, as you meander through the Cornwall AONB on the way to the supposed birthplace of King Arthur. This is a one-way trail, so make sure to have your travel arrangements sorted before heading out on your adventure.
South West Coast Path: Tintagel to Pentireglaze Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: Tintagel to Pentireglaze is a fantastic seaside adventure in the southwest corner of England that offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the rugged terrain of the coast and pass by charming villages along the edge of the water that offer the perfect place to sit out and enjoy the views. What a wonderful way to spend a day outdoors!
South West Coast Path: Pentireglaze to Padstow Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Pentireglaze to Padstow is a beautifully scenic adventure along the Cornish coast that is only one small segment of a much longer journey around the southwestern tip of the country. While out on the trail, you will pass through charming seaside villages and enjoy beautiful views across the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to pre-arrange a pick up at the end of your walk, as this is a one-way trail.
South West Coast Path: Padstow to Mawgan Porth Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Padstow to Mawgan Porth is a lengthy adventure that will allow you to fully experience the natural beauty of the Cornish coast. While out on the trail, you will explore the various bays, coves, and beaches that can be found within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Make no doubt about it, this is a long and tiring walk that is often split up into two days.
South West Coast Path: Mawgan Porth to Perranporth Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: Mawgan to Perranporth is another lengthy stretch of the famous long distance walking route that will take you along the southwestern coast of England. While out on the trail, you will experience beautiful coastal scenery and pass through charming seaside villages and towns that dot the landscape. This route is often split up into two parts; however, it can certainly be done in a single day if you can handle the leg work.
The South West Coast Path: Portreath to St Ives Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Portreath to St Ives is a fantastic adventure along the Cornish coast that may be long, but also offers some amazing views of the seaside. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the coast and make your way along the banks of the River Hayle before finishing off in the charming town of St Ives. Plan ahead and make your travel arrangements for the end of this lengthy one-way trail.
South West Coast Path: St Ives to Geevor Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: St Ives to Geevor is a fantastic oceanside adventure that will showcase the true beauty of the Cornish coastal areas. Departing the picturesque seaside town of St Ives, you will make your way along the shore and take in stunning views of secluded beaches and coves from atop dramatic cliffs. This really is an amazing way to experience the coast of England.
South West Coast Path: Land’s End to Penzance Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: Land’s End to Penzance is a lengthy, but beautifully scenic adventure that will allow you to experience the rugged terrain and lovely coastal views along England’s southwestern shoreline. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the rugged cliffs along the coast while taking in views of the blue ocean and secluded coves before completing the final leg of the journey into Penzance. This is a fantastic trail that combines the rugged terrain of the coast with urban shoreline walking.
South West Coast Path: Poldhu Cove to Kuggar Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Poldhu Cove to Kuggar is a great adventure along the Cornish coast that provides some stunning views across the Atlantic Ocean. While out on the trail, you will traverse the rugged coast along the Lizard Peninsula, making your way through a national nature reserve on the way to the thrall’s end in Kuggar. This is a wonderful route along the picturesque south coast of England.
South West Coast Path: Kuggar to Helford Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: Kuggar to Helford is a scenic trail that will take you along the eastern edge of the Lizard Peninsula to explore the Cornish coastline. While out walking the trail, you will pass through the Lizard National Nature Reserve and a number of charming villages, as you traverse the undulating landscape along the shoreline. Unless you are planning on completing the entire South West Coast Path, you will want to plan out your travel arrangements for the end of this one-way walk.
South West Coast Path: St Anthony to Portloe Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: St Anthony to Portloe is an amazing adventure along the coast of Cornwall that will produce stunning views overlooking the ocean. While out on the trail, you will experience the coastal landscape of southwest England, as you traverse the undulating terrain along the cliffs that overlook the water. The trail may be long, but the beautiful scenery is definitely worth the effort.
South West Coast Path: Portloe to Mevagissey Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Portloe to Mevagissey trail is a challenging portion of this famous long-distance route that will provide beautiful views of the ocean. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill along the rocky cliffs that characterize this part of the coast and traverse several points before completing the final leg into Mevagissey. The elevation gain is more or less spread throughout the entire route, so be prepared for a bit of a leg burn.
South West Coast Path: Mevagissey to Fowey Route Guide
Walking the South West Coast Path: Mevagissey to Fowey is a great experience that will allow you to take in the beauty of Cornwall and its coastal areas. While out on the trail, you will traverse the rugged shoreline and climb uphill for breathtaking views that sweep across St Austell Bay. This is a fantastic long distance route if you are looking to explore the Cornish Riviera.
South West Coast Path: Fowey to Downderry Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: Fowey to Downderry is a beautifully scenic, but long and challenging walk along the gorgeous coast of Cornwall. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill and traverse the rugged coastal terrain, passing through charming villages as you enjoy stunning views that sweep across the English Channel. This route will take a fair amount of physical fitness to complete in one day; however, the beautiful views and sense of achievement are incomparable.
South West Coast Path: Downderry to Plymouth Route Guide
The South West Coast Path: Downderry to Plymouth is a long segment of the 630.0mi national trail known as the South West Coast Path. While out exploring this portion of the famous walk, you will traverse the rugged coastline and walk along the Rame Head Peninsula before taking a ferry across to the end of the route in Plymouth. This may be a lengthy adventure, but there is no better way to explore the natural beauty of the Cornish coast.
Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk Route Guide
The Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure along the Cornish Coast that offers some stunning views that stretch out from the dramatic cliffs towards the Bristol Channel. While out on the trail, you will make your way across open fields to take in views of Porth Mear Cove, working your way along the coast to the viewpoint at Park Head, before looping back across the countryside on the return. Walkers should take note that the Bedruthan Steps themselves are currently closed due to a rockfall that occurs on the site in February 2020.
Chapel Porth to St Agnes Walk Route Guide
The Chapel Porth to St Agnes Walk is a great adventure in Cornwall that will take you along rugged coastal headlands for views of the sea. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the coast to the scenic lookout at St Agnes Head, before looping around Trevaunance Cove to pass through St Agnes on the return journey. Make sure to wear proper walking boots for this amazing coastal journey.
Eden Project Circular Walk Route Guide
The Eden Project Circular Walk is an amazing walking route that will connect you with the beauty of the Cornwall landscape and offers plenty of educational opportunities. While out walking the trail, you will follow a route that leads you around the 30 acre gardens and giant covered biomes of the Eden Project, an educational charity that offers a glimpse into various climates and ecosystems. This fun adventure makes for an exceptional day on the trails with friends and family.
Camel Trail: Wadebridge to Padstow Route Guide
Walking the Camel Trail: Wadebridge to Padstow is a fantastic outdoor adventure that will allow you to explore one of the many waterways in Cornwall. While out on the trail, you will leave the town of Wadebridge behind and walk along the River Camel as it widens into an estuary and takes you to Padstow. Walkers should take note that this is a one-way trail, so be sure to make travel arrangements for the return leg or plan to walk the entire route over again.
Bodmin Moor and Cheesewring Walk Route Guide
The Bodmin Moor and Cheesewring Walk is a fun, albeit challenging, walking route in Cornwall that will take you through some rugged terrain for exceptional views. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill across the rocky and exposed landscape of Bodmin Moor, circling around the rock formation known as Cheesewring, before descending through the moor once again. The trail here is exposed to the elements and can become very boggy after wet weather, so be sure to wear waterproof walking boots.
Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk Route Guide
The Stithians Reservoir Circular Walk is a waterside adventure in Cornwall that will see you traverse the shoreline of a fairly large reservoir. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the edge of the Stithians Reservoir, passing through fields, marshes, and forests as you enjoy views across the calm surface of the water. Walkers should take note that some portions of this route are a tad overgrown and can become very muddy in wet weather, requiring good walking boots to traverse.
Port Isaac Circular Walk Route Guide
The Port Isaac Circular Walk is a fun and beautifully scenic adventure along the Cornish Coast that will lead you around a well known village from pop culture. While out walking the trail, you will explore the landscape surrounding the picturesque village of Port Isaac, which is famous for its role as the fictional village of Portwenn in the television series Doc Martin. This is an excellent walking route that can be enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts of varying skill levels.
Ladock Woods Circular Walk Route Guide
The Ladock Woods Circular Walk is a short walking trail in Cornwall that will expose you to a charming stretch of woodland terrain. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest and descend the opposite side of the hill, before looping around to the southeast on the return portion. This is a quick activity that will allow you to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with nature.
Lerryn Wood Circular Walk Route Guide
The Lerryn Wood Circular Walk is a fun adventure in Cornwall that will take you to the confluence of two rivers. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the tranquil expanse of Lerryn Wood along the banks of the River Lerryn, before meeting up with the much larger River Fowey. From e there, you will circle back to the village through the countryside. This is a relaxing walk through the forest that can be enjoyed by walkers of all skill levels.
Trethevy to St Nectan’s Glen Walk Route Guide
The Trethevy to St Nectan’s Glen Walk is a fantastic route in Cornwall that will lead you through a serene woodland valley to view a stunning waterfall. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the village of Trethevy and into St Nectan’s Glen, where you will explore the forested valley on the way to the cascading waters of St Nectan’s Kieve. This is a beautifully scenic walk that is popular with outdoor enthusiasts and spiritualists alike, so make sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Cardinham Woods and Lady Vale Walk Route Guide
The Cardinham Woods and Lady Vale Walk is a relaxing journey in Cornwall that will take you through a wonderfully atmospheric stretch of woodland terrain. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the densely forested expanse of Cardinham Woods to reach the village of Cardinham itself, before looping back through the forest along the opposite bank of Cardinham Water. This is a fantastic adventure to escape the outside world and relax in a peaceful forest setting.
St Ives to Carbis Bay Walk Route Guide
The St Ives to Carbis Bay Walk is a fun and beautifully scenic adventure along the Cornish Coast that will take you through seaside towns for incredible views. While out walking the trail, you will climb up the hillside to reach Knill’s Monument, before descending through Carbis Bay to make your way along the water’s edge, where you will be able to spot historic shipwrecks at low tide. This is a great walking route for those who enjoy scenic views and local history.
Camel Trail: Bodmin to Wadebridge Route Guide
The Camel Trail: Bodmin to Wadebridge is a fantastic walking route that will allow you to experience a beautiful inland stretch of the Cornish countryside. While out walking the trail, you will leave the town of Bodmin behind and follow along the winding banks of the River Camel, as it snakes through forests and open fields to reach the town of Wadebridge. Walkers should note that this is a point-to-point trail, so be sure to make travel arrangements for the return leg if you do not plan on retracing your journey along the entire length of the route.
Idless Woods Walk Route Guide
The Walk through Idless Woods is a great family-friendly adventure that will take you through a lovely forest filled with fascinating historical sites. While out walking the trail, you will pass through the densely wooded terrain and explore the remnants of an old gunpowder factory, as well as those of an ancient hillfort. This is an excellent walking route for anyone that has an interest in history or is looking to reconnect with nature.
Namphillows Wood and Trelissick Garden Walk Route Guide
The Namphillows Wood and Trelissick Garden Walk is a great outdoor excursion in Cornwall that will take you through a variety of terrain and allow you to experience an historic manor house. While out walking the trail, you will pass through serene stretches of forest to reach the banks of the River Fal, following around the estate grounds in order to explore other woodland areas, the historic house, as well as its magnificent gardens. This is an exceptional walking route that can be enjoyed by all.
Cadgwith Cove to Lizard Point Walk Route Guide
The Cadgwith Cove to Lizard Point Walk is a beautifully scenic journey in Cornwall that will allow you to experience the rugged and dramatic nature of the southwest coast of England. While out walking the trail, you will head through the village of Cadgwith and continue south along the coastal cliffs in order to pass by historic wireless stations and the Lizard Point Lighthouse. Walkers should take note that this is a one-way trail, so unless you want to walk the entire distance back to the trailhead or become stranded at the southernmost point of mainland United Kingdom, you should probably make travel arrangements in advance.
Kynance Cove Walk Route Guide
The Kynance Cove Walk is an amazing outdoor excursion in Cornwall that will see you traverse the rugged terrain of the Lizard Peninsula for gorgeous views of the sea. While out walking the trail, you will experience the natural beauty of Kynance Cove and make your way through some dramatic clifftop terrain on the way to Lizard Point, the southernmost point of mainland UK. This is a breathtaking walk that shouldn’t be skipped if you find yourself in the area.
Tintagel to Rocky Valley Circular Walk Route Guide
The Tintagel to Rocky Circular Walk is a fun and beautifully scenic journey along the COrnish Coast that will take you past sites with historic and mythic importance. While out walking the trail you will make your way along the dramatic terrain of the Cornish Coast to view Tintagel Castle and other historic sites tied to the myth of the legendary King Arthur. This is an excellent walking route for anyone interested in visiting some fascinating attractions while experiencing the natural beauty of the sea.
Trevose Head Circular Walk Route Guide
The Trevose Head Circular Walk is a fantastic outdoor adventure along the Cornish Coast that will produce some exceptional views of the sea. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along Constantine Bay and traverse the coastal terrain of Trevose Head, before looping inland to pass through several charming villages on the return leg. This is a wonderful walking route for anyone that enjoys classic maritime views.
Lanhydrock Gardens Circular Walk Route Guide
Walking the Lanhydrock Gardens Circular Trail is a beautifully scenic adventure that will expose you to a stunning historical site and picturesque estate grounds. While out on the trail, you will make your way past the Victorian Era Lanhydrock house and pass through its immaculate gardens, before exploring the forests and winding banks of the River Fowey nearby. This is an excellent adventure in Cornwall that can be enjoyed by all.
Golitha Falls and Siblyback Lake Walk Route Guide
The Golitha Falls and Siblyback Lake Walk is a fun and beautifully scenic journey in Cornwall that will allow you to experience a variety of terrain types while taking in some stunning views of nearby waterways. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the forested banks of the River Fowey to view Golitha Falls, before traversing the open countryside around Siblyback Lake. This isn’t an overly challenging route; however, there are some tricky to navigate sections of trail that are easier done when you have a GPS handy.
Talland Bay to Polperro Walk Route Guide
The Talland Bay to Polperro Walk is a quick and fairly easy excursion in Cornwall that will allow you to explore the coastal areas of the county and its historic villages. While out on the trail, you will pass through the charming 13th Century fishing village of Polperro, before traversing the rugged shoreline of Talland Bay. This is an exceptional adventure with a beach at the beginning/end of the route, so be sure to bring your swimwear!
Kennack Sands to Lankidden Cove Circular Walk Route Guide
The Kennack Sands to Lankidden Cove Circular Walk is a fantastic route along the Cornish Coast that offers the chance to take in some beautifully scenic views of the English Channel. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the sandy expanse of Kennack Sands Beach and climb uphill to a viewpoint overlooking Lankidden Cove, before looping around the countryside on the return leg. This is an amazing option to get out and explore the rugged terrain of England’s southwest coast.
Hell’s Mouth to Godrevy Circular Walk Route Guide
The Hell’s Mouth to Godrevy Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure that will lead you along the coast of Cornwall for some beautiful views of the sea. While out walking the trail, you will pass through forests and open fields, before traversing some coastal walkways with views of the Godrevy Lighthouse, a grey seal colony, and the dramatic cliffs at Hell’s Mouth. There are plenty of amazing views packed into this walk, and it should definitely be a priority if you find yourself exploring the area.
1-40 of 126 routes
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!