Kennack Sands to Lankidden Cove Circular Walk

Route Description for Kennack Sands to Lankidden Cove Circular Walk

Walking the Kennack Sands to Lankidden Cove Circular Trail is a fun adventure in Cornwall, although there are some rugged sections of coastal terrain that will not be suitable for walkers of all skill levels. Be sure to wear proper walking footwear and exercise caution in areas where there are steep drop offs. Additionally, the car park at the trailhead is fairly small, so you will need to arrive somewhat early in order to secure a space.

This walking route along the scenic Cornish Coast is a popular adventure thanks to stunning views that overlook secluded coves, sandy beaches, and the vast blue expanse of the English Channel. The trail is made up of a mixture of rugged coastal walkways and quiet country roads, meaning that you will have a good variety of terrain underfoot and plenty of stunning seaside scenery to experience as you work your way around the circuit. Don’t forget to pack your swimwear for a bit of fun at the beach once you’ve wrapped up your walk!

Setting out from the car park, you will make your way to the northeast along the road for 0.3 km to arrive at the edge of Kennack Sands Beach. Keeping to the left, you will make your way around the cafe and Kennack Sands Surf School, following the South West Coast Path as it passes between the building and some public toilets in a northeastern direction. Continue along this footpath for the next 0.2 km, enjoying the views overlooking the beach before arriving at a junction.

From the junction, you will take the path on the right and keep right over the next 0.5 km to eventually reach the end of the beach. From here, you will still continue to keep right along the trail; however, the ground underfoot will transition into rugged coastal terrain as you begin to climb uphill. Take some time to appreciate the beautiful views along the coast that include the scenic Spernic Cove, as you follow this seaside path for the next 1.7 km.

Arriving at another junction, you will have a beautiful sightline overlooking the secluded Lankidden Cove and the English Channel to the southeast. From here, take the path on the left and follow it to the north, leaving the shoreline behind as you cut across the open farmland. Once you have met up with a road, follow it to the left and continue on for another 0.8 km until you reach the hamlet of Ponsongath. Turn left here onto the road and follow it west for 0.5 km, turning left once again onto a road that leads southwest towards Kennack Sands.

Keeping straight along the quiet country road for 1.8 km, you will eventually find a footpath branching off to the left. Follow this path as it bends further to the southwest and begins to lead you downhill towards the sandy expanse of Kennack Sands Beach. After arriving at another junction near the edge of the beach, you will turn right and retrace your steps along the initial leg of your walk, following the route for 1.0 km until you arrive back at the car park having completed the Kennack Sands to Lankidden Cove Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Kennack Sands

Located near the small village of Kuggar in Cornwall, Kennack Sands is made up of two beaches along the shoreline of Lizard Point, with the easternmost of the two being designated as a nature reserve. Due to its large tidal range, Kennack Sands is a popular spot with the surfing community and there is even a small surfing school set up on the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kennack Sands safe for swimming?

Largely sheltered by Lizard Point, Kennack Sands Beach is a great place to swim on the rising tide, and the eastern beach is great at high tide.

Are dogs allowed at Kennack Sands?

Dogs are prohibited from the Kennack Sands West Beach from July 1st to August 31st, although they are allowed on the east beach year-round.

Insider Hints for Kennack Sands to Lankidden Cove Circular Walk

• Parking at the trailhead is fairly limited, so try to arrive early or park a bit further east at the Kennack Sands car park.
• Wear proper walking footwear.
• Exercise caution when travelling with children along the rugged coastal terrain.