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    Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1-1.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    4.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    91 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk

    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.

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    Route Description for Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk

    The Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk is a laidback adventure that only features a small amount of elevation gain; however, there are some steep drop offs along the coast that could prove to be dangerous. Make sure to keep an eye on children or dogs when walking through these areas. Additionally, rockfalls are common along the coast, with one occurring in February of 2020 that damaged the Bedruthan Steps and resulted in their closure. While you can’t access these steps, the pentire Steps close by are a great alternative to access the beach.

    Featuring breathtaking views along the coast that stretch out into the vast expanse of the Bristol Channel, the Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk really is a spectacular adventure. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the easy-going terrain and stunning backdrop of the sea will provide you with an unforgettable experience of walking along the coastal cliffs of Cornwall. What an excellent way to spend the day outdoors.

    Setting out from the car park, you will make your way to the northeast past the Porth Mear Cottage and continue along the footpath as it bends to the northwest and leads you across several open fields. As you descend the hillside you will pass through a small glen, eventually arriving at a stunning viewpoint overlooking the secluded site of Porth Mear.

    After taking some time to appreciate the views of this scenic cove, you will continue along the coastal trail as it turns to the southwest, providing you some amazing views overlooking the sea. Eventually, you will arrive at the coastal headland known as Park Head that juts out onto the water and provides some scenic views along the rest of the coast. Here, you will also find the remains of an Iron age Embankment constructed by inhabitants of the area thousands of years ago.

    Continuing along the dramatic terrain of the coast, you will head to the southeast and enjoy some scenic views over Pentire Beach, before arriving at a junction where you could make a detour to the right in order to make your way towards the Pentire and Bedruthan steps. If you do not plan on making this scenic detour, simply head left at the junction to return to the trailhead where you began the Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk.

    Trail Highlights

    Bedruthan Steps

    The Bedruthan Steps can be found along the Cornish Coast between Padstow and Newquay and provide access to the secluded Bedruthan Beach beneath the cliffs. This steep staircase features 149 steps that have been carved into the cliff face and serve as the only means to access the beach. Access to the Bedruthan Steps has been restricted since February 2020, when a rockfall damaged the infrastructure and the National Trust ruled it an unsafe area. Fortunately, the Pentire Steps - located just to the north - offer a similar, if less well-known, experience.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How many steps make up the Bedruthan Steps?

    The Bedruthan Steps are comprised of 149 steps carved into the cliff face.

    Why are the Bedruthan Steps closed?

    Access to the Bedruthan Steps was affected by a rockfall in the area that occurred in February 2020 and badly damaged the infrastructure, resulting in the National Trust restricting access to the site.

    Insider Hints for Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk

    • Wear proper walking footwear to better traverse the coastal terrain.
    • Make sure to keep your dog on a lead.
    • The Bedruthan Steps are currently closed due to a rockfall; however, the Pentire Steps just to the north of them can still be accessed.

    Getting to the Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Bedruthan Steps and Park head Walk can be found 1.7mi north of Trenance at the Park Head National Trust car park, just off B3276.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-Round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk Elevation Graph

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    Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk Reviews

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