The South West Coast Path stretches from Minehead in Somerset, along the coast of Devon and Cornwall, to Poole Harbour in Dorset. The path is approximately 630 miles long, and walking the entire trek takes seven to eight weeks.
Here, we have collected five of our favourite routes.
Penzance to Lamorna
Walk through Penzance to the old fishing village Newlyn and continue to Cornwall’s oldest town, Mousehole. Continue through Mousehole and towards Lamorna. Here, the path gets trickier. You can choose to walk along the coast or through beautiful farmland. Or walk through the farmland towards Lamorna, then turn back and hike along the coast to Mousehole.
The distance from Penzance to Lamorna is around 11 miles (18 km). If you walk back to Mousehole, it is an additional 2,5 miles (around 3 km).
Sennen to Lamorna
The route Sennen to Lamorna is perfect for those wishing to experience England’s most southwesterly point at Land’s End. It is a challenging hike, especially around Porthcurno, with hills, and sometimes the path follows close to the edge (nothing for those afraid of heights!). The landscape is beautiful and changes along the walk. It is one of our favourite hikes in the area.
If you have some extra time, visit the open-air theatre at the Minack Theatre in Porthcurno.
Also popular among birdwatchers, dolphin sightings are often observed along the stretch between Sennen and Porthcurno. And lots of seals! The path is perfect for those interested in wildlife, as it passes through areas of outstanding beauty.
The route is 11.7 miles (18.8 km).
St. Just to St Ives
If you’re interested in old mining history, the area around Botallack is a must-see. Here, mines and other ruins are part of the landscape. Start your walk at St Just, and take in the stunning views from Cape Cornwall. Continue towards Botallack, and if you have time, visit the exhibition centre at Botallack or the one at Geevor Tin Mine. Continue to St Ives, passing Zennor’s stunning cliff-top views.
Porthleven to the Lizard
Start at the picturesque and historic fishing village Porthleven and finish at England’s most southern point, the Lizard. Along the coastal path, you will experience everything from rugged coastal scenery to secluded beaches. Highlights include Mullion Cove and the beautiful village above, the stunning old Gunwalloe Church of St. Winwaloe in Church Cove, and Kynanance Cove, the largest outcrop of serpentine rock in Britain.
When arriving at the Lizard, make sure to visit Trinity House Lighthouse, which has been standing firm since 1751.
The route is 13 miles, moderate, with a good amount of hills.
Crackington Haven to Tintagel
Explore the Cornish North coast from the coastal village of Crackington Haven to Tintagel village and Tintagel Castle, associated with the literary legends of King Arthur.
The route takes you along a stunning coastal path, passing dramatic cliffs, isolated beaches, and spectacular headlands. Highlights along the way include the highest cliff in Cornwall, High Cliff (700ft, 223 metres), the beautiful village Boscastle, the birdlife and Cornish fauna, and, of course, Tintagel Castle.
The route is 11 miles, 17.9 kilometres, challenging route.
Think about this before heading out
- Always check the weather reports before setting out. This area of Cornwall is exposed, with strong winds and rainfall making the path difficult and even dangerous. Always follow the advice from the Coast Guard (make sure to have their number with you!).
- Bring plenty of water, food and snacks, sun cream, and protection against the weather.
How to be a conscious hiker
Take care of your surroundings. If you are lucky enough to encounter wildlife, please be cautious and refrain from disturbing the animals.
Leave nothing but footsteps – do not leave your litter; bring it with you.
During the warm summer months, it is essential to exercise caution when and how to build fires.
If you are lucky enough to experience some of Cornwall's wildlife, like the
Cornish Cough (read more about how to protect this famous bird at The Cornish Chough Project) or grey seals and dolphins, make sure to admire their beauty from a safe distance so as not to disturb the animals.
The South West Coast Path is gorgeous, and no wonder people from all over the world want to visit! Make sure to take care of the natural environment around you and the wildlife that inhabits the region – so that the coat path can continue to be amazing for decades to come!