The best walks and hikes around Padstow

The walks around Padstow offer a good mix for different fitness levels. You'll find a large number of easy and moderate trails, perfect for a relaxed day out. For those seeking a challenge, there are a couple of difficult routes available. Many hikes involve sections of the South West Coast Path, which can include some steep climbs and descents on rugged terrain.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. A great option is the Padstow to Trevone loop. This moderate walk takes you along the stunning coastline before heading back inland, offering a fantastic variety of scenery without needing to retrace your steps.

Padstow is very dog-friendly. Most coastal paths and the Camel Trail are suitable for walking with dogs. However, be aware that you may encounter livestock in fields, so it's important to keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Also, some beaches have seasonal restrictions, so it's always a good idea to check local signage before letting them off the lead on the sand.

The Camel Trail is the top choice for a family-friendly walk. It's a largely flat and traffic-free path that follows a disused railway line along the estuary, making it ideal for walkers of all ages and abilities, as well as for pushchairs. The scenery is beautiful and there are plenty of spots to stop and watch the birdlife.

For dramatic coastal views, head to Stepper Point. This headland offers panoramic vistas across the Camel Estuary and the Atlantic Ocean. Another highly-regarded spot is Gunver Head, which provides outstanding views along the cliffs. For a truly spectacular landscape, the cliff-top walk at Carnewas at Bedruthan showcases the famous sea stacks and is a favorite for photographers.

The section of the South West Coast Path around Padstow is packed with highlights. Key features include the stone navigation tower at Stepper Point, the beautiful sandy beaches at Harlyn and Constantine Bay, and the dramatic cliffs around Trevose Head. The route offers a classic Cornish coastal experience with rugged paths, hidden coves like St George’s Cove, and constant sea views.

Both offer fantastic walking, but with different perspectives. Padstow is the starting point for coastal walks heading west towards Trevone and beyond, and it's the terminus of the Camel Trail. Rock, on the other side of the estuary, provides a different angle on the Camel Estuary and connects to coastal paths heading north towards Polzeath. A ferry runs between the two, so it's easy to start a walk in one and finish in the other.

Many coastal villages near Padstow have excellent pubs that make a perfect stop on a walk. For example, a hike to Trevone or Harlyn Bay will bring you to villages with pubs and cafes where you can rest and refuel before continuing your journey or heading back to Padstow.

The Camel Trail follows the route of a disused railway line, so the terrain is mostly flat with a hard-packed surface. This makes it very accessible and suitable for walkers, cyclists, and families with pushchairs. The path runs alongside the picturesque Camel Estuary, offering gentle gradients and lovely waterside views between Padstow and Wadebridge.

Yes, for experienced hikers looking for a full day's adventure, the Stepper Point Daymark Tower – Constantine Bay Beach loop from Padstow is a great choice. At nearly 26 km, this difficult route is a significant undertaking that rewards you with some of the best coastal scenery in the region, covering multiple headlands and bays.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning variety of scenery, from the tranquil Camel Estuary to the dramatic and rugged Atlantic cliffs. The well-maintained paths and the abundance of beautiful sandy coves are also popular highlights.

There are over 60 curated hiking routes to explore around Padstow on komoot. These range from short, gentle strolls to challenging all-day coastal treks, ensuring there's a trail for every type of walker.