Easy hikes and walks around St. Cleer
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1,549
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Easy hiking trails around St. Cleer are set within a diverse landscape on the southern fringes of Bodmin Moor, Cornwall. The region features rugged moorland characterized by granite tors, ancient oak woodlands, and serene lakeside paths. Hikers can explore open moorland, tranquil river valleys like Golitha Falls, and the gentle shores of Siblyback Lake. The terrain also includes notable granite formations such as The Cheesewring and historical sites like The Hurlers Stone Circles.
Best easy hiking trails around St. Cleer
- The most popular easy hiking route is Siblyback Lake Trail, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 12 minutes to complete. This route offers pleasant lakeside vistas and is suitable for families.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Cheesewring & South Phönix Nine loop from Minions, an easy 4.0 miles (6.4 km) path. This trail explores the dramatic granite formations and historical mining remnants of the moorland.
- Local hikers also love the Golitha Falls – Golitha Falls loop from St. Cleer, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail leading through ancient oak woodlands and along the cascading River Fowey, often completed in about 1 hour 53 minutes.
- Hiking around St. Cleer is defined by open moorland, ancient woodlands, and scenic lakeside paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in St. Cleer are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 750 hikers have used komoot to explore St. Cleer's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.9
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356
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4.70km
01:12
20m
20m
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.
5.0
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28
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6.43km
01:46
100m
100m
Embark on an easy 4.0-mile (6.4 km) hike around the Cheesewring & South Phönix Nine loop from Minions, a journey that typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. You will experience a gentle climb of 334 feet (102 metres) as you traverse open moorland and rocky sections, offering panoramic views across Bodmin Moor. The dramatic Cheesewring, a unique weather-sculpted granite tor, stands out as a key visual landmark on this route, providing a striking focal point amidst the rugged landscape.
When planning your visit, be aware that while the trail is generally easy, the moorland environment means paths can sometimes be indistinct, so carrying a map or using a navigation app is recommended. Waterproof boots are advisable to handle potentially damp or uneven terrain. You can usually find parking conveniently located in Minions, often near the Minions Heritage Centre, which serves as a good starting point for your adventure.
This route offers a fascinating blend of natural geological wonders and rich historical context. Beyond the natural formations, you will encounter the ancient Hurlers Stone Circles, hinting at prehistoric human activity in the area. The trail also passes relics of the South Phoenix Mine, providing a glimpse into the region's industrial past and its significant mining heritage, making it a notable exploration of both nature and history.
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5.0
(1)
22
hikers
7.11km
01:53
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
7.12km
01:53
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
29
hikers
5.84km
01:42
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Numerous remains can still be seen today, including the route of the railway tracks that transported the ore to Looe Harbour and the engine houses that were used to pump water out of the mines or to lift out the rocks.
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Cornwall's World Heritage Site In 2006 Cornwall and West Devon was declared a World Heritage Site because of the important role its mining history has played in metal extraction around the world. There was a saying in the late 19th century: "If there's a hole in the ground, you'll find a Cornish man in it." When Cornwall's mines failed, men travelled the world in search of riches and engine houses very similar to the one pictured above can be found in places as far away as Mexico, South Africa and New Zealand. The village of Minions exists thanks to mining. Before 1800 there was little here except a few farmhouses in the sheltered valleys. But in the 1830s copper was discovered beneath Caradon Hill and the area was soon flooded with miners from all over Cornwall.
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Please note: Bodmin Moor is notorious for its changeable weather conditions, so please bring suitable clothing as the location is remote and very exposed.
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This landmark is located next to the Cheesewring Quarry (which provided the granite cladding for the structure of Tower Bridge in London) and is surrounded by other granite formations. In the late 19th century, this landmark was threatened with destruction due to its proximity to blasting operations, but was saved through local activism.
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Three beautiful Neolithic or Early Bronze Age stone circles arranged in a line, a unique grouping in England. The Hurlers Stone Circles are probably the best examples of ceremonial circles in the South West. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hurlers-stone-circles/
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Siblyback Lake is a reservoir on the edge of Bodmin Moor. The dam blocks a small tributary of the River Fowey.
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On the shore of Siblyback Lake sits Olive & Co. Open for breakfast and lunch it also serves teas, coffees and cakes, including vegan and gluten free options. Watching over the calm waters of the reservoir, sitting and enjoying a brew or something to eat makes a lovely end to a run.
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The dam was built in 1968 to create the reservoir which provides drinking water and tops up the water levels of the River Fowey during the dry months. Once a small tributary of the River Fowey, Siblyback Lake now holds 3 billion litres of water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around St. Cleer?
St. Cleer offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 19 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are over 30 footpaths in the area, providing diverse options for outdoor enthusiasts.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in St. Cleer?
The easy trails around St. Cleer are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from rugged moorland to serene lakeside paths, and the blend of natural beauty with historical sites.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in St. Cleer?
St. Cleer offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides warmer weather for lakeside walks. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, especially in the ancient woodlands of Golitha Falls. Even in winter, the moorland trails offer a dramatic, remote beauty, though appropriate gear for colder, wetter conditions is recommended.
Are there any easy circular walks near St. Cleer?
Yes, several easy circular walks are available. For example, the Siblyback Lake Trail offers a pleasant loop around the lake. Another popular option is the Golitha Falls – Golitha Falls loop from St. Cleer, which takes you through ancient woodlands and along the River Fowey.
Which easy trails are suitable for families with children?
The Siblyback Lake Trail is particularly well-suited for families, offering gentle terrain and pleasant lakeside views. The paths around Golitha Falls are also generally family-friendly, providing an engaging walk through woodlands with cascading waterfalls.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in St. Cleer?
Many trails in St. Cleer are dog-friendly, especially those on Bodmin Moor and around Siblyback Lake. Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve also welcomes dogs, provided they are kept on a lead to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially near livestock.
Can I see waterfalls on an easy hike near St. Cleer?
Absolutely! The Golitha Falls – Golitha Falls loop from St. Cleer is an excellent easy hike that leads you through ancient oak woodlands alongside the River Fowey, where it cascades over a series of picturesque waterfalls. It's a designated National Nature Reserve known for its natural beauty.
Are there historical sites or ancient monuments to see on easy hikes?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore sites like The Hurlers Stone Circles, a group of three Bronze Age stone circles, and the striking natural rock formation of The Cheesewring. The Cheesewring & South Phönix Nine loop from Minions is an easy route that takes you past these and other mining heritage remnants.
Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails in St. Cleer?
Parking is generally available at key trailheads. For Siblyback Lake, there is a dedicated car park. When exploring the moorland trails, such as those leading to The Hurlers and The Cheesewring, parking can often be found near Minions village. For Golitha Falls, there's a car park at the National Nature Reserve entrance.
Is public transport available to reach the easy hiking trails?
While St. Cleer is somewhat rural, local bus services connect it to larger towns like Liskeard, which has a train station. From St. Cleer village, some trailheads are accessible on foot, but reaching more remote starting points like Siblyback Lake or Minions might require a short taxi ride or personal vehicle. For detailed bus routes and timetables, it's advisable to check local transport websites.
What natural landmarks can I explore on easy hikes around St. Cleer?
Beyond the historical sites, the region boasts impressive natural landmarks. The most notable is The Cheesewring, a unique stack of weathered granite slabs. The vast expanses of Bodmin Moor itself, with its dramatic granite tors, offer breathtaking views and a sense of wildness on many easy routes.
Are there cafes or pubs near the easy hiking trails in St. Cleer?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. St. Cleer village has local amenities, including a pub. Near Minions, a village often used as a starting point for moorland hikes, there are cafes and pubs. Siblyback Lake also has a cafe, perfect for a post-walk treat. Golitha Falls has a popular cafe near its entrance.
What should I wear for an easy hike in St. Cleer?
Even on easy trails, it's wise to be prepared for varied Cornish weather. Layers are recommended, as conditions can change quickly. Waterproof outerwear is essential, especially on the exposed moorland. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots with good grip are advisable, as paths can be uneven or muddy, particularly after rain.
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