Walking the South West Coast Path

Cornwall is home to some of the most picturesque sections of the South West Coast Path. Loved for 50 years by countless hikers, ramblers and strollers, the full route stretches for 630 beautiful miles – making it England’s longest waymarked trail. 

The path’s coastal scenery is beautiful all year round; however, if your priority is good weather, walking from March through to September is your best bet. We particularly love it in spring, when the path transforms into a colourful haven of wildlife, abundant with unique fauna and flora to spot along the way. 

On average, the whole path takes around eight weeks to complete. However, you can start and finish at almost any point to create your own route. So, whether you’re looking for a short Sunday stroll or a challenging weekend hike, we’ve pulled together a roundup of our favourite sections of the trail.

“Start at the car park in Helford, then follow the river towards the headland. Circle back on yourself at St Anthony-in-Meneage and follow Gillian Greek towards Manaccan before cutting cross country to the woodland in the valley to take you back to Helford for a well-deserved beverage in the Shipwright Arms.

“I’d say this is a great picnic walk, as there are lots of hidden beaches along the river. We stopped to eat lunch and caught a glimpse of a seal plus plenty of wild birds.” 

“Chapel Porth is a small beach on Cornwall’s rugged north coast. Park in the National Trust car park then climb the winding path up towards St Agnes Head. At the top, the coast path gently leads you to the ruins of Wheal Coates tin mine, a beautiful piece of Cornish history. 

“The towering brick chimneys and crumbling engine houses sit right on the cliff's edge, with views of the blue sea beyond. It’s one of Cornwall’s most photographed spots, and it’s easy to see why on a clear spring day.”

“Godrevy Head is one of my favourite sections of the coast path. There are beautiful long beaches and great views of Godrevy Lighthouse. If you stroll to Mutton Cove, you might even be lucky enough to see seals lounging on the beaches below the cliff's edge.” 

“I love taking this walk out around Nare Head. It has lovely views looking back to Carne beach and towards Portscatho beyond. When you reach the headland, you can look down over Gull Rock and on to the Dodman. At the end of walk, Carne is a beautiful sandy beach to relax on.” 

“If you’re visiting the fishing village of Polperro, this is an ideal short circular route to explore. Starting at Crumplehorn car park, walk down through the village to the harbour along the narrow streets flanked by little cottages. Fork left at the harbour and walk out of Polperro. You’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views as you follow along the South West Coast Path to Talland Bay.” 

"Our family loves a bit of history so visiting this spectacular castle on the north coast was a real highlight for us last summer. My kids were spellbound by the ruins and tales of King Arthur, and we loved watching the amazing birdlife from the high cliffs. The castle itself isn't suitable for pushchairs, but there's a stretch above it which is and still offers incredible views: Glebe Cliff. It's recommended by the SWCP as one of their Easy Access Routes, which are parts of the path which have flatter terrain, and are often closer to facilities like carparks, cafes and toilets."

For maps, itineraries and guides to plan your South West Coast Path experience, visit southwestcoastpath.org.uk