Easy hikes and walks in Cornwall

Embark on an easy coastal hike along The Lizard Coastal Walk, a route that spans 3.9 miles (6.3 km) and features 367 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this scenic journey in about 1 hour and 44 minutes. As you follow the path, you will encounter varied terrain, from sandy stretches to rugged cliff-top sections, all while enjoying views of the dramatic Cornish coastline. The highlight for many is Kynance Cove, known for its striking turquoise waters and unique rock formations, offering a truly memorable visual experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the route is generally easy, some parts of the trail can be uneven underfoot. After rain, certain sections may become muddy, so appropriate footwear is advisable. Always exercise caution near cliff edges, as some areas may not have guardrails. If you decide to descend to beaches like Kynance Cove, prepare for steep steps that require careful navigation.

This route takes you through the Cornwall National Landscape, an area celebrated for its natural beauty and unique geology. You might spot local wildlife, including seals or various migratory birds, adding to the experience. The area is particularly notable for its rare serpentinite rocks, which contribute to the distinctive landscape. The trail also leads you to Lizard Point, marking Britain's most southerly point, a significant landmark to visit.

Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Sennen Cove and Land's End Circular Walk, a 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route that offers dramatic coastal scenery. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 264 feet (81 metres) and can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 17 minutes. As you hike, you will pass towering granite cliffs and the expansive Whitesand Bay, leading you to the iconic Land's End landmark itself. The trail provides a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Cornwall's rugged beauty.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail features varied terrain, including both hard-surfaced paths and some uneven ground. There is a notable climb as you ascend from Sennen Cove towards Mayon Cliff, so wearing appropriate footwear is advisable for comfort and safety. While generally considered easy, some sections can be steep, requiring a steady footing. This route is accessible for most hikers looking for a rewarding coastal experience.

This circular walk is nestled within Cornwall's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing a rich natural environment. Keep an eye out for striking geological formations like Pordenack Point and the distinctive arched sea stack known as the Armed Knight. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Isles of Scilly. The area is also home to diverse wildlife; you could spot seals, various birds of prey, and vibrant wildflowers, especially if you visit during the spring months.

Embark on the Trelissick Woodland Walk, an easy hike that guides you through dappled woodlands with constant views of the River Fal. You will cover 2.9 miles (4.6 km) and gain 200 feet (61 metres) in elevation, taking about 1 hour and 14 minutes. As you hike, look for the historic King Harry Ferry, a prominent landmark on the river, and enjoy panoramic views over its creeks and wide expanses of water.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this popular route. Parking is available, and the trail is very dog friendly, making it a great option for many. While generally flat, be aware of a noticeable hill that leads down to a beach and then back up. You will find accessible toilets and a café nearby, adding to the convenience of your outing.

This route stands out for its diverse natural beauty and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for wading birds like oystercatchers along the riverbanks. The trail offers unique perspectives, including a viewpoint overlooking Channals Creek from Trelissick, showcasing the region's distinctive Cornish scenery.

The Siblyback Lake Trail offers an easy hiking experience, covering 2.9 miles (4.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 53 feet (16 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 11 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you hike, you'll enjoy continuous views of Siblyback Lake, with Tregarrick Tor visible in the distance across the water, and pass through varied sections of woodland and open fields.

Planning your visit to Siblyback Lake is straightforward, as the trail is largely flat and features a hard-packed surface. This makes it suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and even cyclists, though comfortable footwear is always a good idea. You will find convenient facilities along the way, including the Olive & Co Cafe for refreshments, public toilets, and ample picnic areas to enjoy. Be aware that some parts of the path might become soft or puddle-filled after heavy rain.

This route is situated on the edge of Bodmin Moor, providing a scenic backdrop to your walk. The trail follows the lake's shoreline, offering opportunities for bird watching, with a dedicated bird hide available for enthusiasts. It's an ideal choice if you are looking for an accessible and gentle walk that combines natural beauty with practical amenities, making it a popular spot for families and beginners alike.

This easy coastal hike from Perranuthnoe to Prussia Cove offers dramatic views across Mount's Bay and towards the iconic St Michael's Mount. You will follow a mix of natural paths and footpaths, including a beautiful stretch of the South West Coast Path. The loop covers 3.9 miles (6.3 km) with an elevation gain of 410 feet (125 metres), taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete at a steady pace.

While generally accessible, some sections of the path can be rugged, especially after rain, so wearing walking boots is a good idea. Be aware of sections close to unfenced cliff edges. The trail is less suitable if you have mobility issues. This route is perfect for a refreshing walk, offering stunning sea views and the chance to explore charming coves like Piskies Cove and Stackhouse Cove.

Prussia Cove is famous for its 18th-century smuggling history, once the stronghold of the notorious John Carter, known as the "King of Prussia." His story adds a layer of intrigue to the area. You might also spot local wildlife like seals, peregrine falcons, and Cornish choughs, particularly during the warmer months when wildflowers bloom in the hedgerows. Cudden Point also provides spectacular panoramic views.

The Tintagel Castle loop offers an easy hiking experience along Cornwall's rugged coastline. You'll walk on varied terrain, including well-maintained coastal paths and some uneven cliff sections, with dramatic views of the dark Devonian cliffs plunging into the Atlantic. This 4.1-mile (6.6 km) loop, with an elevation gain of 393 feet (120 metres), typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. Expect panoramic vistas of Tintagel Castle and the sea from points like Barras Nose and Penhallic Point. In spring and summer, the paths are brightened by wildflowers such as gorse and sea pink. You might even spot seals around Willapark or peregrine falcons overhead.

This trail is largely classified as easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels. While much of the route is manageable, be aware of some uphill sections, such as a steady climb after Barras Nose towards the Camelot Castle hotel. The path can include natural, unpaved, and gravel sections, interspersed with some road and street portions, so wear appropriate footwear.

This area is rich in history, with Tintagel Castle at its heart, deeply intertwined with the legends of King Arthur. You'll pass by Barras Nose, the first piece of English coastline acquired by the National Trust in 1897, and Penhallic Point, a former industrial site with remnants of slate quarrying. The route also features archaeological evidence dating back to the Mesolithic period and visible ruins of a 13th-century castle, adding layers of historical interest to your hike.

Embark on an easy hike along the South West Coast Path from Mawgan Porth to Bedruthan Steps, a journey of 3.6 miles (5.7 km) with an elevation gain of 391 feet (119 metres). This route typically takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete. You will experience the dramatic cliffs and expansive sea views characteristic of the North Cornish coast, starting with a climb from Mawgan Porth beach that offers rewarding vistas towards Newquay. Look out for features like Trenance Point and Carnewas Island as you make your way to the iconic Bedruthan Steps, famous for its towering sea stacks.

When planning your visit, be aware that the stepped path leading down to the beach at Bedruthan Steps has been closed since 2019 due to safety concerns. You can still enjoy the impressive sea stacks from the clifftop viewpoints. Parking is available at Mawgan Porth, and there is also a National Trust car park at Bedruthan Steps, providing convenient access to the trail. Consider visiting in spring when the clifftops are vibrant with wildflowers like Sea Pinks and bright yellow gorse.

This section of the South West Coast Path offers a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the Cornish coastline. The area is known for its geological formations, particularly the striking sea stacks at Bedruthan Steps, which are a highlight of the route. The clifftops also support a diverse array of flora, attracting butterflies during the warmer months. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a relatively short and accessible coastal walk with plenty of scenic rewards.

The Godrevy Heritage Coast & Godrevy Point trail offers a diverse hiking experience along Cornwall's rugged coastline. You will find stunning views of the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse, standing on Godrevy Island, as you traverse clifftop paths and explore areas of lowland heathland. This easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hike involves an elevation gain of 230 feet (70 metres) and typically takes around 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. Expect pristine golden sands, translucent azure waters, and dramatic cliffs reaching up to 250 feet in height. The Knavocks heathland, in particular, showcases rare wildflowers like purple eyebright and white bell heather.

This trail is easily accessible, with shorter sections like the path to Mutton Cove being ideal for a quick stroll from a car park. While the route is generally easy, some sections may require sure-footedness, especially if you venture onto longer coastal walks. The area is suitable for various fitness levels, making it a good choice for a leisurely outing. Consider visiting at low tide for the best chance to spot wildlife.

The Godrevy Heritage Coast is a significant location for wildlife, particularly at Mutton Cove, where you can often see a colony of grey seals basking or swimming. Birdwatchers can spot various seabirds, including kittiwakes and the re-established Cornish chough. The area also holds historical importance, with Devonian mudstones dating back over 35 million years and Bronze Age burial mounds. Notably, the Godrevy Lighthouse inspired Virginia Woolf's novel, "To the Lighthouse," adding a literary connection to your hike. The lowland heathland at the Knavocks is ecologically important, representing a significant portion of the world's remaining lowland heathland.

The Crackington Cracker Walk is an easy hike that spans 3.8 miles (6.1 km) with an elevation gain of 487 feet (148 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 45 minutes. You will begin your adventure from the sandy shores of Crackington Haven, quickly finding yourself amidst the dramatic scenery of the North Cornwall coastline. As you follow the route, you can enjoy memorable views of towering cliffs and the distant Cambeak Headland, before the trail guides you back through the tranquil, sheltered woodlands of Ludon Valley.

Before you set out, be aware that the trail includes significant ascents and descents, and some sections along the clifftops are unfenced. Sturdy footwear is essential for your safety and comfort. The path can become quite muddy, especially after rain, and it is not suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, or bikes. Parking is generally available at Crackington Haven, providing convenient access to the trailhead.

This route offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the unique natural environment of North Cornwall. Keep an eye out for intriguing rock formations that dot the landscape and varied wildlife along the way. On clear days, you might even be able to spot Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel, adding another layer to the already stunning coastal vistas.