The best walks and hikes around Colliford Lake
4.4
(342)
2,923
hikers
93
hikes
Hiking around Colliford Lake offers diverse landscapes within Cornwall's Bodmin Moor, characterized by rolling hills, moorland, and the expansive lake itself. The region features rivers, streams, and woodlands, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. As Cornwall's largest inland body of water, the lake area presents panoramic views and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The trails navigate through this natural setting, offering a blend of open moorland and sheltered paths.
Best hiking trails around Colliford Lake
- The most popular hiking route…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.1
(10)
46
hikers
5.42km
01:28
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.7
(6)
14
hikers
15.2km
04:00
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
7
hikers
This moderate 8.7-mile (13.9 km) hike on Bodmin Moor explores ancient stone circles and offers expansive views of the Cornish landscape.
4.0
(3)
22
hikers
7.13km
01:55
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
20
hikers
8.64km
02:31
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Stayed 1 night, lovely room, gorgeous dinner and a great base for a walk to Brown Willy!
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The stone circle has a diameter of around 33 metres. Only 11 of its original 26 stones remain, and of these only eight are still erect. Slightly off the track - but you can ride / push bike to the circle easily.
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Fun compacted gravel fire trails through the woods. There is a small car park on the North East entrance to the plantation.
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Wide open land for miles with Alex Tor and Rough Tor on the horizon.
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Delford Bridge is a pretty clapper bridge dating back to medieval times. It is a wonderful place for dogs and hikers to take a paddle. Cattle and sheep roam freely here so you might meet them at the water's edge too.
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If you are looking for somewhere that conjures up the smuggling history of Cornwall, then this is it. The setting for Daphne du Maurier's novel, Jamaica Inn is an 18th century coaching inn which provided travellers respite from crossing the wilds of Bodmin Moor. As it was in the middle of nowhere, it was also the perfect location to hide goods being smuggled into the country from the Cornish coast. At Jamaica Inn you will still find a place to rest a while, enjoy some food and drink or even stay the night. Plus a collection of smuggling artefacts to really give you an insight into its history.
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Colliford is the largest lake in Cornwall and the road passing by it provides superb views. There are plentiful picnic spots alongside the lake, but watch out for ponies roaming free who might steal a sandwich. Watersports aren't allowed here which makes for a peaceful area, but you may spot a fly fisher seeking out an elusive brown trout.
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Treverbyn Ancient Bridge is a medieval crossing over the River Fowey. It is now used as a footbridge and on its western end contains parts of a much older crossing which had fallen into disrepair in 1412 or 1413 when this bridge was comissioned. Treverbyn Mill, on the west side of the bridge, is a grade II listed watermill, once used to grind corn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Colliford Lake?
There are over 90 hiking trails around Colliford Lake, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. These routes explore the diverse landscapes of Bodmin Moor, from tranquil lake shores to open moorland and wooded sections.
What types of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails near Colliford Lake?
The terrain around Colliford Lake is varied, encompassing rolling hills, rugged moorland, and lush greenery. You'll find paths along the lake's edge, through rivers and streams, and within wooded areas like Carpuan Wood and Periock Wood. Some routes, particularly on the moor, can be exposed and require sturdy footwear.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks around Colliford Lake?
Yes, there are several easy walks suitable for families. An example is the Jamaica Inn loop from Cornwall National Landscape, which is an easy 3.4-mile (5.4 km) trail offering panoramic views. The region also features shorter loops like the 'Little Explorers Trail' mentioned in the region research, designed to be engaging for children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails at Colliford Lake?
Many trails around Colliford Lake are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. However, as the area is part of Bodmin Moor and a nature reserve, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock like Highland cattle and Bodmin ponies, and to protect local wildlife.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Colliford Lake?
Yes, many of the trails around Colliford Lake are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The popular Colliford Circular Walk offers panoramic views as it circumnavigates the lake. Another option is the Halvana Woods Gravel Trails loop from Webb's Down, an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) circular route.
What historical or archaeological sites can I see while hiking near Colliford Lake?
The area is rich in history. You can explore ancient stone circles on routes such as The Trippet Stones, Carbilly Tor, Kerrow Downs & Manor Common loop from Temple Tor. Additionally, the iconic Jamaica Inn, featured in literature and legends, is located nearby and provides insight into local history.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Colliford Lake?
The best seasons for hiking around Colliford Lake are generally spring and autumn. During these times, you'll experience mild temperatures and flourishing vegetation. While hiking is possible year-round, spring and autumn offer optimal conditions for enjoying the diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
For experienced hikers, a portion of the 36-mile 'Smugglers Way' crosses Bodmin Moor, including the two highest points on the moor. This route requires good navigation skills. A moderate option is the Jamaica Inn – Colliford Lake loop from Cornwall National Landscape, which is a 9.4-mile (15.1 km) trail.
What kind of wildlife can I spot while hiking around Colliford Lake?
Colliford Lake is a nature reserve, making it an excellent spot for wildlife observation. You can often see diverse birdlife, including wigeon, goldeneye, golden plover, lapwing, snipe, great crested grebe, swifts, swallows, and martins, especially during migration seasons. Highland cattle and Bodmin ponies also graze around the lake, adding to the pastoral charm.
Are there picnic areas or facilities available near the hiking trails?
Yes, Colliford Lake offers well-appointed picnic areas and car parks, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy the peace of the countryside. These facilities are generally located near popular access points to the lake and its surrounding trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails at Colliford Lake?
The trails around Colliford Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the panoramic views of the lake and moorland, the tranquility of the natural setting, and the variety of routes available for different fitness levels.
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