Sandymouth Circular Walk
The Sandymouth Circular Walk is a fantastic route in Cornwall that will take you along the coast for stunning views of the Cornish Sea. While out walking the trail, you will traverse a coastal path above Sandymouth Bay Beach to reach the scenic Duckpool Beach, before heading inland through the forested Coombe Valley on the return leg. This trail features a great variety of picturesque scenery and terrain that will make for a fun day outdoors.
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Route Description for Sandymouth Circular Walk
Walking the Sandymouth Circular Trail will see you traverse a mixture of rugged coastal terrain, open fields, and mixed woodlands that will require proper walking boots to safely traverse. Additionally, if you plan on heading down to explore the beach areas, be sure to check tide times and exercise caution. Parking can also be limited during peak hours, so you should try to arrive early to secure a space.
Although some of the areas around the beaches can be fairly busy, the nice thing about the Sandymouth Circular Walk is that other sections of the trail will be less populated, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque scenery in peace and quiet. With gorgeous views along the dramatic terrain of the Cornish Coast, there is no reason to put off this fun adventure if you find yourself in the area.
Setting out from the car park, make your way towards the water’s edge and pass by the Sandymouth Cafe to pick up the footpath branching off to the right that will take you north along the coastline. Following this path for the next 1.7 km, you will enjoy breathtaking views looking out across the sea, before arriving at a junction on your left that offers an option detour leading down towards Duckpool Beach. If you do not want to head down to the beach, continue along the path and cross over the footbridge in order to meet up with the road.
Turning right along the road, you will pass by some toilet facilities and continue on for the next 0.9 km, keeping straight through the Coombe Valley on your way into the village of Coombe. Immediately after passing by the Mill Cottage on your right, you will find a footpath branching off on the same side. Take this and follow it into the woodland terrain, keeping right along the path for 1.2 km to cross over the stream. From here, the route will bend back to the southwest for 1.2 km, exiting the tree cover to arrive at the edge of a road.
Making a left here, you will continue on for 0.2 km and make a right to traverse the open farmland to the southwest. Take some time to appreciate the peaceful scenery surrounding you over the next 1.1 km, as you traverse the open fields and meet up with another road. Turning right here, you will follow the road for a short stretch to eventually return to the car park where you began the Sandymouth Circular Walk.
Trail Highlights
Duckpool
Located along a scenic stretch of the Cornish coastline just 4mi north of Bude, Duckpool Beach can be found at the point where the Coombe Valley extends out into the sea. Dominated by the 100m tall Steeple Point Cliff, the beach is a scenic place to sit and gaze out across the water, although it should be noted that it is unsafe to swim here due to the currents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Duckpool Beach dog-friendly?
Yes, Duckpool Beach is dog-friendly; however, owners will need to keep them under control out of respect for other walkers.
Is Sandymouth Beach sandy?
Sandymouth Bay Beach largely consists of pebbles, although there are some sandy areas close to the water’s edge, especially during low tide.
Insider Hints for Sandymouth Circular Walk
- Toilet facilities can be found at the car park and near Duckpool Beach.
- Wear proper walking footwear as there is rugged coastal terrain.
- Pop into the Sandymouth Cafe near the trailhead for pre/post-walk refreshments.
Getting to the Sandymouth Circular Walk Trailhead
Parking for the Sandymouth Circular Walk can be found at the National Trust Sandymouth car park.
Route Information
Sandymouth Circular Walk Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherSandymouth Circular Walk Reviews
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Nearby Trails
- Bude Canal Trail
- Morwenstow Circular Walk
- Boscastle and Rocky Valley Circular Walk
- Crackington Haven and Cambeak Circular Walk
- South West Coast Path: Clovelly to South Hole
- South West Coast Path: Crackington Haven to Tintagel
- South West Coast Path: Bude to Crackington Haven
- Speke’s Mill Mouth Waterfall Walk
- South West Coast Path: South Hole to Bude
- Bucks Cross to Clovelly Walk
- Tamar Lakes Walk
- Hartland Point Walk