Top 5 Cornish Walks
WalksWith National Walking Month just around the corner and the lighter and longer days encouraging us all to get outside and breath in the fresh air, what better way to celebrate than a beautiful, rugged Cornish walk. Followed by a rewarding pint or filling roast, in a welcoming pub of course.
Cornwall is famous for its scenic trails and coastal paths. With jaw dropping cliff top views, wildlife that’s set to awe even the most experienced of nature lovers and historic buildings aplenty, going for a Cornish walk promises a memorable outing.
We’ve compiled a list of our 5 favourite walks that all include a well-deserved pub pit stop.
This coast-to-coast walk boasts magnificent views of the National Trust’s historic St Michael’s Mount, home of St Aubyn. The coastal path meanders towards Trencrom Hill, where you’ll find a memorable vista over St Ives Bay and the Hayle Estuary. Finish the stroll at one of Cornwall’s oldest and most famous pubs, the historical Sloop Inn. With outdoor seating that displays views across the harbour, it makes for the perfect spot to bask in the sun with a cold drink. Weather not playing ball? Walk wetter than expected? The cosy pub interior promises to warm you and provides the perfect place to unwind with a post-ramble pint of Cornish ale, or re-energise with some top class pub grub.
This picturesque circular walk starts from the small fishing village of Fowey through National Trust woodland with spectacular scenery of the south shores of Cornwall across to Polkerris. Soak in the secluded beaches and sparkling ocean from heather cluttered cliff tops that rustle with salty sea air. Keep heading towards Polkerris for some well-earned foodie delights. The Rashleigh Inn, overlooks the beach and invites diners to experience the best of Cornish cuisine with a great selection of locally caught seafood meals.
This 6 mile trail takes walkers away from the crowds of holiday makers and introduces you to the wooded Helford Valley, through rural fields and past lookouts exhibiting views over Falmouth Bay. The pub in Manaccan has an idyllic back garden and picturesque thatched roof, and was recently renovated in 2017.
Set off at Mylor Bridge and climb the steady hill through fields to Restronguet Barton, descend Restronguet Hill to the Pandora Inn. The rest of the route is along the edge of the creeks, down Restronguet Creek to Weir Point and, via Greatwood quay, back up Mylor Creek to Mylor Bridge.
The Pandora Inn, the pub on this particular walk, has a spectacular pontoon which stretches out onto Carrick Roads. With flagstone floors, low-beam ceilings, cosy fires and a thatched roof, it’s not difficult to believe that parts of the Inn date back to the 13th Century.
This 4 mile walk starts and finishes at St Mawnan Church car park and includes spectacular views of Rosemillion Head at the mouth of the Helford River, with rugged coves, vibrant garden estates and the beautiful Helford Estuary. In spring time the coastal grassland on Rosemullion Head is abundant with beautiful bluebells and fragrant wild garlic.
Complete your walk with a roast at The Red Lion pub in Mawman Smith. The pub is full of traditional Cornish character and serves a selection of Cornish beverages and delicious food.
If you’re thinking of visiting us and using St Michaels as a base from which to try out these wonderful walks, check out our Breaks and Offers page for our latest stays.