4.5
(2716)
21,037
hikers
10
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around St. Erth offer a diverse landscape, characterized by the tranquil River Hayle and its estuary, providing level walks suitable for all skill levels. The area also features rolling inland countryside with varied scenery and proximity to coastal paths, including sections of the South West Coast Path. St. Erth Pits Nature Reserve, a former sandpit now dominated by woodland, adds a unique natural feature to the region's hiking opportunities. This combination of riverside, coastal, and inland…
Last updated: November 1, 2026
4.5
(2)
21
hikers
9.30km
02:30
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
2.5
(31)
4
hikers
6.56km
01:44
60m
60m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.

8
hikers
8.12km
02:04
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
3.0
(1)
11
hikers
4.97km
01:18
40m
40m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5
hikers
5.68km
01:33
80m
80m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Popular around St. Erth
Perfect location, overlooking the estuary. Very popular, so be prepared to queue.
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Great view while eating
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Mexico Towans is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It is named after 'towans', the Cornish word for sand dunes and possibly the tin mine, Wheal Mexico, but no one knows for sure. After the collapse of the mining industry, many miners emigrated to Mexico so this may also be a link.
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1
Just beautiful, as is most of Cornwall
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St. Erth offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 185 easy and 100 moderate routes, providing plenty of options for families with varying fitness levels and interests.
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for family hikes in St. Erth, offering pleasant weather for exploring the coastal paths, riverside trails, and inland countryside. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing leaves, while winter can be suitable for crisp, shorter walks, especially along the river, though some coastal paths might be more exposed to the elements.
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around St. Erth are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the St Erth Church – The Star Inn loop from St. Erth is a moderate circular hike that offers a good exploration of the local area.
The area around St. Erth is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore the tranquil River Hayle and its estuary, discover the diverse wildlife at the St Erth Pits Nature Reserve, or enjoy stunning coastal views. Nearby attractions include the iconic St Michael's Mount, the charming St Ives Harbour, and the picturesque Mousehole Village and Harbour.
Many trails in the St. Erth area are dog-friendly, especially those along the River Hayle and in the inland countryside. However, it's always best to check specific route details for any restrictions, particularly on nature reserves or certain beach sections during peak seasons. Always keep dogs under control and clean up after them.
St. Erth is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to access trailheads. The village has a railway station, which is a major interchange for services to St Ives and Penzance. This allows for convenient access to many starting points for walks. For more detailed information on train services, you can visit visitbytrain.info.
Yes, parking is generally available in and around St. Erth, including near the village center and at various trailheads. Specific parking options will vary by route, so it's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen hike for the most convenient parking facilities.
The terrain around St. Erth is quite varied, offering something for everyone. You'll find mostly level paths along the River Hayle and its estuary, suitable for easy strolls. Inland routes often feature rolling countryside with gentle ascents and descents. Coastal paths can range from easy, flat sections to more rugged and undulating terrain with stunning sea views.
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hiking in St. Erth, with an average score of 4.56 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, from tranquil riverside walks to dramatic coastal views, and the accessibility of many routes for families. The mix of natural beauty and charming local villages makes for a memorable outdoor experience.
Absolutely! St. Erth's proximity to the coast means many family-friendly routes offer coastal views or lead to beautiful sandy beaches. For instance, the Hayle North Quay Harbor – Gilbert’s Beach Bar & Kitchen loop from St. Erth takes you along the Hayle estuary, offering a taste of the coastal environment and access to beaches like those at Hayle Towans or Gwithian.
Yes, St. Erth and the surrounding towns and villages offer various options for refreshments. You'll find local pubs, cafes, and bakeries where you can grab a bite or a drink before or after your hike. For example, the Hayle North Quay Harbor – Philps Bakery loop from Hayle specifically highlights a popular local bakery.
Yes, there are plenty of easy and shorter options perfect for families with younger children. Many of the routes along the River Hayle are relatively flat and manageable. For example, the Hayle North Quay Harbor – Philps Bakery loop from Hayle is an easy route that's just over 6 km, making it suitable for a pleasant family outing.


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