Coastal Path Day Walks in Cornwall: 6 Circular Routes Under 8 Miles

Cornwall's coast path is a long-distance trail, but you do not need a week and a heavy pack to enjoy it. These six circular day walks stitch together some of the finest stretches of the South West Coast Path, then loop back inland through lanes, fields and quiet footpaths. All are under eight miles, and each has a clear start point with parking nearby. Expect granite cliffs, hidden coves, mining relics and a few steep steps. Take a map, check the weather and tides, and give yourself time for a cream tea.

1. Lizard Point and Kynance Cove Circular

Start: Lizard Village. Parking: Lizard Village car park (pay-and-display). Distance: about 4 miles. Difficulty: moderate, with steep steps down to Kynance Cove.

From the village, walk south to Lizard Point, the most southerly point of mainland Britain. Follow the coast path north-west along the clifftops to Kynance Cove, where serpentine rock and white sand make the beach look almost tropical. Return inland across Lizard Downs and past Kynance Farm, rejoining the village via footpaths.

Highlights: Lizard Lighthouse, the Lloyd's Signal Station, Kynance Cove café (seasonal), and views to the offshore reefs. Toilets at Lizard and Kynance. The path is rocky in places; allow two to three hours.

2. Sennen Cove and Land's End Circular

Start: Sennen Cove. Parking: Sennen Cove car park (pay-and-display). Distance: about 5 miles. Difficulty: moderate, with some uneven clifftop sections.

Head north on the coast path from Sennen Cove, climbing above Whitesand Bay. The path leads to Land's End, passing the famous signpost and the First and Last Inn. Return via inland footpaths through fields and small lanes, with views back to the bay.

Highlights: Whitesand Bay, Longships Lighthouse, Land's End, and the chance to spot seals and basking sharks in season. Toilets and cafés at Sennen and Land's End. The return leg can be muddy after rain.

3. Porthcurno and St Levan Circular

Start: Porthcurno. Parking: Porthcurno car park (pay-and-display). Distance: about 4 miles. Difficulty: moderate, with short steep climbs.

From Porthcurno, follow the coast path east to Porthchapel, a small beach tucked below the cliffs. Continue to St Levan, then loop back through the village and along lanes to Porthcurno. The Minack Theatre sits above Porthcurno beach; book ahead if you want a tour or a performance.

Highlights: Porthcurno beach, Minack Theatre, St Levan's Church and St Levan's Well. Toilets at Porthcurno. The path has stone stiles and uneven steps.

4. Mousehole and Lamorna Circular

Start: Mousehole. Parking: Mousehole car park (pay-and-display). Distance: about 5 miles. Difficulty: moderate, rocky underfoot with some steep sections.

Leave Mousehole harbour and follow the coast path west towards Lamorna Cove. The route passes granite cliffs and sheltered inlets, with views to St Clement's Isle. From Lamorna, return inland through Kemyel Crease and along quiet lanes back to Mousehole.

Highlights: Mousehole harbour, Lamorna Cove, and the granite scenery of the Penwith coast. Toilets at Mousehole and Lamorna (seasonal). The Lamorna café is a good halfway stop.

5. Padstow, Trevone and Stepper Point Circular

Start: Padstow. Parking: Padstow car park (pay-and-display). Distance: about 7 miles. Difficulty: moderate, with some road walking and a few climbs.

Follow the coast path west from Padstow along the Camel Estuary to Stepper Point, where the daymark tower stands above the water. Continue to Trevone Bay, then return inland via lanes and footpaths to Padstow. The route can be shortened by cutting back along the road if time is short.

Highlights: Camel Estuary, Stepper Point, Roundhole, and Trevone Bay. Toilets and cafés in Padstow and Trevone. The estuary path can be muddy in winter.

6. Fowey, Gribbin Head and Polkerris Circular

Start: Fowey. Parking: Fowey car park (pay-and-display). Distance: about 7 miles. Difficulty: moderate, with woodland paths and coastal climbs.

From Fowey, walk past Readymoney Cove and St Catherine's Castle, then follow the coast path east to Gribbin Head. The red-and-white daymark tower is a useful landmark. Continue to Polkerris, then return to Fowey through lanes and woodland.

Highlights: Readymoney Cove, St Catherine's Castle, Gribbin Head, and Polkerris beach. Toilets and cafés in Fowey and Polkerris. Some sections are narrow and can be busy in summer.

Practical notes for coastal walking

• Wear sturdy shoes with good grip; coastal paths are often rocky, muddy or steep.
• Carry a paper map or a charged phone with an offline map. Mobile signal can be patchy.
• Check tide times if you plan to visit beaches or coves. Do not attempt to swim unless you know the conditions.
• Take water, snacks and a waterproof layer. Weather changes quickly on the coast.
• Keep dogs under control near cliffs and livestock. Some beaches have seasonal dog restrictions.
• Park considerately in village car parks. Arrive early in summer and avoid blocking access.
• Leave no trace: take litter home and keep to the path to protect fragile clifftop plants.

These walks are a taste of the South West Coast Path, not a substitute for proper preparation. If you have health concerns or are unsure about a route, speak to a qualified walking guide or your GP. Otherwise, pick a calm day, pack sensibly and enjoy the Cornish coast at walking pace.

Photo: Jatman 0007 / Pexels