The best hikes from bus stations in Cornwall

Embark on a moderate hike along the Polperro to Looe Coast Path, a 9.5-mile (15.3 km) route that takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes to complete. You will gain 642 feet (196 metres) in elevation as you traverse rugged coastal terrain, offering expansive views of the English Channel. Keep an eye out for Looe Island as you make your way between these picturesque Cornish fishing villages. The trail provides a true sense of the region's natural beauty and seaside charm.

For your visit, be prepared for uneven and potentially boggy sections, especially after rain; sturdy hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended. Public transport is convenient, with buses connecting Polperro and Looe, and Looe itself is accessible by train. You will find cafes and pubs in both Polperro and Looe, as well as at Talland Bay, perfect for a break or refreshment.

This section of the South West Coast Path offers more than just scenic views; it's a chance to spot local wildlife like seals and various bird species. The route also passes by historic sites, including an early Christian holy site, adding a layer of cultural interest to your journey. Enjoy the unique blend of natural beauty and heritage that defines this coastal adventure.

Embark on the Church Cove, Lizard Point & Kynance Cove loop, a moderate hike along the South West Coast Path. This route covers 10.0 miles (16.0 km) with an elevation gain of 780 feet (238 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 22 minutes to complete. You will experience rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and white sand beaches like Kynance Cove, known for its unique serpentine rock formations and clear turquoise waters. Expect steep ascents and descents, narrow steps, and potentially uneven paths, especially near Housel Bay.

To make the most of your visit, consider timing your hike to explore Kynance Cove at low tide, which reveals hidden caves and the full extent of the beach. The trail demands good fitness and sure-footedness, so be prepared for challenging sections with steep drops and rocky descents. During summer months, you might encounter grazing cattle in fields along the route. This hike is best enjoyed when you are ready for a dynamic coastal adventure.

This trail is notable for including Lizard Point, the southernmost tip of mainland Britain, offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean. You will also discover natural wonders like the Devil's Frying Pan and historical sites such as the Lizard Wireless Station and Marconi Memorial. The entire area is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, showcasing its significant scenic value with rare Cornish heath and opportunities to spot seals and various seabirds.

Embark on the Trevose Head & Constantine Bay loop from Harlyn, a moderate hiking experience spanning 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with an elevation gain of 386 feet (118 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 25 minutes. This circular route guides you along rugged clifftops and sandy beaches, offering expansive coastal views that can stretch for over 70 miles on clear days. You will pass iconic landmarks like the 19th-century Trevose Head Lighthouse and explore numerous coves and bays, including Constantine Bay and Harlyn Bay, known for their golden sands and surfing conditions.

While generally accessible, some sections of the South West Coast Path are rugged and rocky, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain and some steep gradients. Good fitness is recommended to comfortably enjoy the varied surfaces, which include natural paths, fields, and some paved sections. The trail is best enjoyed when you can take your time to appreciate the diverse landscape and abundant wildlife.

This trail stands out for its dramatic coastal landscape, showcasing a striking contrast between rugged headlands and soft, sandy beaches. Look for the unique "Round Hole," a chasm formed by a collapsed sea cave, and the distinctive pink and grey rock stripes of the "Marble Cliffs" at Dinas Head. The coastal heathland is a haven for birdlife and wildflowers, and you might even spot seals, dolphins, or basking sharks in the waters, adding to the rich natural and historical tapestry of this Cornish adventure.

Embark on a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) hike along the South West Coast Path from Perranporth to St Agnes Bay, a journey that takes approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes and involves 798 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain. You will walk along dramatic cliff-tops, offering expansive views of golden sands and picturesque coves. The path itself is varied, with some steep ascents and descents, such as the drop into Trevellas Combe, so be ready for uneven and rocky sections.

For your visit, sturdy walking boots are highly recommended to handle the diverse terrain. This route is dog-friendly, with many beaches and pubs along the way welcoming your canine companions. You can find refreshments at both Perranporth and St Agnes, making it easy to refuel before or after your adventure.

This section of the coast path is rich with Cornwall's mining heritage, where you will see numerous relics of the industry, including visible mine adits and old concrete workings. Look out for Cligga Head with its rugged, mineral-stained cliffs, and Trevaunance Cove, where granite blocks from an old harbor still remain. The area around St Agnes Head also served as the sweeping valley setting for "Nampara" in the popular Poldark TV series.