4.6
(1074)
9,632
hikers
13
hikes
Hikes around Luxulyan explore a wooded river valley landscape noted for its 19th-century industrial heritage. The region is part of a World Heritage Site, with trails following the River Par and passing old granite quarries and mills. The terrain consists mainly of woodland paths and sections of historic tramways, with some moderate inclines.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.7
(9)
35
hikers
11.8km
03:14
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
15
hikers
3.47km
00:57
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.2
(5)
10
hikers
13.0km
03:33
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(12)
124
hikers
5.05km
01:24
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(10)
79
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Cornwalls industrial heritage at its finest! Fabulous peaceful valley with a lovely tranquil atmosphere. Be aware if leaving the road to explore the trails it does get extremely muddy when it's been raining!
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An absolutely magical stretch of shared cycleway and footpath that follows the River Par on what was once an old tramway. You're surrounded by reminders of the Luxulyan Valley's historic past, with crumbling buildings, chimneys and Treffry's Viaduct which were all used in clay extraction here. Today, the route is blissfully peaceful, though the river does flow with quite some force alongside the path. Look out for dippers here.
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Treffry's Viaduct was used as a tramway and for carrying water across the Luxulyan valley. This was built in the 19th century by Joseph Thomas Treffry, owner of the Fowey Consols Mine. This impressive engineering project stands at 90ft tall and 670ft in length. Water carried across the viaduct was used to power the nearby Carmears Wheel. The viaduct is built with local stone from nearby quarries, which were linked by tramways to the viaduct.
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Breney Common is an important wetland, open water and dry heathland site designated as a SSSI and nature reserve. Historically it was a tin mining area which left the depressions and landforms which then became ponds and ditches. There are a wide variety of plants and animals here, the area supports several dragonfly and damselfly species.
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There was once a china clay works here called Pontsmill. Back then the cycle path was a tramway. In peace and tranquility now, the path takes you right next to remnants of the Luxulyan Valley's industrial past.
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The trails in this area are generally accessible, with a mix of easy and moderate routes. You won't find any technically difficult alpine climbs. Most walks follow woodland paths and old tramways, with some gentle to moderate inclines, making it a great destination for most fitness levels.
Yes, many trails in the area are great for walking with dogs. For example, Prideaux Woods Walk is known to be a quiet and popular choice for dog walkers. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near any livestock on trails that cross farmland, and be mindful of local signage.
The Luxulyan Valley is a World Heritage Site, rich with 19th-century industrial history. On many walks, you'll encounter impressive granite quarries, the remains of old mills, and historic tramways. The most famous landmark is the magnificent Treffry Viaduct, a centerpiece of the valley's trail network.
Yes, most of the popular routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. For a longer day out that takes in varied scenery, the Helman Tor & Lanlivery loop from Luxulyan is an excellent moderate option.
There are several small car parks that serve as convenient starting points. The car park at Ponts Mill is a popular option for accessing the southern end of the valley. For walks around Breney Common and Helman Tor, there is parking available near the chapel. It's always a good idea to arrive early, as spaces can be limited.
Yes, after exploring the valley, you can visit the Kings Arms pub in Luxulyan village for refreshments. It's a welcoming spot to relax after a day on the trails.
Hiking around Luxulyan takes you through a lush, wooded river valley. The trails follow the path of the River Par, winding through ancient oak and beech woods. You'll experience a mix of serene woodland, open common land like on the Breney Common & Helman Tor loop, and paths that trace the area's industrial past.
Definitely. The area offers several shorter, easier walks perfect for a family outing. A great choice is the Ruins With Stream in Woodland – Carmears Waterwheel Ruins loop from Luxulyan, which is around 5 km and explores fascinating industrial ruins and woodland scenery without being too strenuous.
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the unique combination of natural beauty and industrial heritage, the tranquility of the woodlands, and the impressive sight of the Treffry Viaduct.
Luxulyan offers a beautiful experience year-round, but spring is particularly magical when the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells and wildflowers. Autumn is also spectacular, with the vibrant colours of the changing leaves creating a picturesque landscape for hiking.
Yes, Luxulyan has a railway station on the Atlantic Coast Line (Par to Newquay), making it accessible by train. From the station, you can directly access several walking trails that lead into the valley and surrounding countryside.


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