The best walks and hikes around Tehidy Wood

Yes, Tehidy Country Park is a popular spot for dog walkers. While dogs are welcome, they must be kept under control. The park has designated areas where dogs can be exercised off-leash, but some sections, particularly around the main lake and café, require dogs to be on a lead to protect wildlife. Always look for local signage for the most current rules.

Absolutely. Tehidy Wood is very family-friendly, with many paths suitable for children. The half-mile 'Lakes Circular Walk' is flat, accessible, and perfect for little legs, offering chances to see ducks and swans. There are also play areas and open spaces for kids to enjoy near the main entrances.

Yes, the park is well-known for its network of color-coded circular walks. These range from short, easy loops to more moderate hikes. For a route that combines woodland with a taste of the coast, consider the Woodland Den loop from Red River, which is a pleasant and relatively easy circular trail.

Tehidy Country Park is open 24 hours a day, all year round. There are several free car parks, including the main ones at the South Drive and North Cliffs entrances. These can get busy, especially on weekends and during holidays, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended. For the most up-to-date information on facilities, you can check the official Cornwall Council website.

Yes, there is a café located near the South Drive entrance and main car park. It offers a range of refreshments, snacks, and light meals, making it a convenient stop before or after your walk. It's a popular spot, especially for families using the nearby facilities.

Tehidy Wood offers beautiful scenery year-round, but spring is particularly spectacular. During this time, the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells and wild garlic, especially along the 'North Cliffs Circular Walk' (pink trail). Autumn is also a wonderful time to visit, as the woods display a rich palette of reds, oranges, and golds.

Yes, several trails lead from the park out to the stunning North Cliffs and the South West Coast Path. A popular option for this is the Basset's Cove – Basset's Cove loop from Illogan, a moderate hike that takes you through the woods and onto the dramatic coastline for fantastic sea views.

The park is a haven for wildlife. You are almost guaranteed to see the famously tame grey squirrels, especially around the main lake area. The lakes are home to swans, ducks, Canada geese, and other waterfowl. If you're quiet and lucky, you might also spot roe deer in the meadows or hear woodpeckers in the trees.

Some trails are accessible. The 'Lakes Circular Walk' is a short, flat, and surfaced path that is generally suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. However, many of the other woodland trails have uneven surfaces, mud, and gradients that make them challenging. It's best to stick to the main paths around the South Drive entrance for the most accessible experience.

Yes, there are plenty of easy walks. Besides the very short lakeside loop, you can try the Hiking loop from Portreath. It's a relatively flat 2.7-mile (4.3 km) trail that provides a great introduction to the area's woodland without being too strenuous.

Yes, Tehidy has a network of multi-use trails. A specific circular route, often marked with blue arrows, is designated for cyclists, horse riders, and walkers. This allows you to explore the park on wheels or horseback away from the pedestrian-only paths. Always be considerate of other users on these shared trails.

The trails are highly regarded by the Komoot community, with an average rating of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful mix of woodland and lakeside scenery, and the variety of routes available for different abilities. The tame squirrels are also a frequently mentioned highlight in reviews.