Discover the best of Falmouth and the Lizard with this collection of 15 handpicked short walks, guiding you through Cornwall’s most captivating landscapes, from dramatic cliffs and historic harbours to tranquil creeks, secluded coves, and rolling countryside. Each walk is designed to be completed in under three hours (ranging from 4.5 to 10km), making this guidebook the ideal companion for families, newcomers, and anyone eager to explore Cornwall’s southern coast at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.

• Each of the 15 Falmouth and The Lizard walks includes clear, easy-to-follow maps and step-by-step route descriptions, with numbered points that link directions directly to the maps for effortless navigation. Free GPX files are also available for every route, making navigation even easier.
• Practical information is provided for every walk, including details on parking, public toilets, refreshments, and route highlights, ensuring your Cornish adventures are accessible, comfortable, and well-planned, whether you’re wandering clifftop paths, exploring ancient mining sites, or discovering picturesque fishing villages.
• Experience the region’s most memorable sights, from the iconic St Agnes Beacon and the wild expanse of Lizard Point, to the peaceful creeks of the Fal estuary, the charming harbour at St Mawes, and the legendary Devil’s Frying Pan at Cadgwith.
• Routes begin from welcoming towns and villages such as Falmouth, Truro, St Mawes, and Cadgwith, with suggestions for public transport and ferry connections for added convenience, as well as options for car-free adventures.
• Discover Cornwall’s excellent hospitality, with advice on accommodation ranging from simple campsites and self-catering cottages to stately hotels, perfect for making the most of your visit after a rewarding day’s walk.

Part of Cicerone’s trusted Short Walks series, this guide to Falmouth and The Lizard brings together everything you need for an unforgettable day out amid Cornwall’s ever-changing coastal scenery and vibrant local character. Whether you’re a local resident, a day visitor, or planning a scenic getaway, this guide is your key to exploring the best of Falmouth, the Lizard, and the surrounding countryside at your own pace.

15 Short Walks in Cornwall – Falmouth and The Lizard: Quick Facts

Location: Falmouth, Truro, St Mawes, Mylor, Cadgwith, Lizard Point, and the south Cornwall coast, UK
Total walks: 15 selected short walks
Typical duration: Under 3 hours each
Distance per walk: 4.5–10 km (2.8–6.2 miles)
Walk type: Easy day walks on circular or there-and-back routes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate; short climbs, well-marked paths, no challenging terrain
Navigation: Clear route maps and step-by-step descriptions with numbered points included
Highlights: St Agnes Beacon and Wheal Coates, Portreath and Tehidy Country Park, Truro, Gwennap Pit, Carn Brea, Trelissick, St Mawes, Mylor, Falmouth beaches and Pendennis Point, Roseland, Frenchman’s Creek, Loe Pool, Poldhu and Halzephron Cliff, Cadgwith and the Devil’s Frying Pan, Lizard Point and Church Cove
Best season: Walkable all year round (be prepared for exposed sections and changeable weather, especially along the coast)

Author Highlight

"Including both the north and south coasts, Falmouth and The Lizard is a paradise for walkers. Coastal walks are perhaps the main attraction but the wooded creeks of Carrick Roads and the industrial heritage of the Redruth and Camborne mining area offer surprisingly pleasant walking." 

- Phil Turner, author of 15 Short Walks in Cornwall: Falmouth and the Lizard

Map key
Overview map
Using this guide
Route summary table
INTRODUCTION
Walking in Falmouth and The Lizard
Things to see
Travel
Where to stay
The walks
1. St Agnes Beacon and Wheal Coates
2. Portreath and Tehidy Country Park
3. Truro to Malpas and St Clement
4. Gwennap Pit
5. Carn Brea
6. Trelissick and Roundwood Quay
7. St Mawes and St Just-in-Roseland
8. Flushing to Mylor Churchtown
9. Falmouth beaches and Pendennis Point
10. Roseland Ramble
11. Frenchman’s Creek
12. Penrose and Loe Bar
13. Poldhu and Halzephron Cliff
14. Cadgwith and the Devil’s Frying Pan
15. Lizard Point and Church Cove
 
Useful information
 

Seasons

This book can be enjoyed all year round: trails that are busy in July are often deserted in November, but several walks run along cliff tops and require particular care in strong winds. Some routes can be muddy.

Centres

Portreath, St Agnes, Truro, Redruth, Falmouth, St Mawes, Porthleven and Lizard

Difficulty

Cornwall is a rural county with most footpaths rough and occasionally muddy. As a county of innovators and engineers, many gates and stiles are creative and may require a clamber. Expect some ascent on most of the walks.

Must See

Beautiful, rugged cliffs above turquoise sea; towering engine houses standing silent guard over post-industrial landscapes; miles of golden sand and irresistible fishing coves; centuries-old pubs providing cosy sanctuary against coastal storms; relaxed woodland walks along quiet muddy creeks

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