Explore Cornwall: Falmouth and the Lizard with five of the best short walks
Cornwall has been attracting visitors since the railway between Plymouth and Penzance was built in the 1860s. And you can see why. Including both the north and south coasts, Falmouth and The Lizard is a paradise for walkers. It's the perfect place to experience sections of the South West Coast Path, discover Cornwall's mining history and have a beach day too. Here are five short walks to explore the very best of the area.
15 Short Walks in Cornwall: Falmouth and the Lizard
£9.95
Discover 15 of the best short walks around Falmouth and the Lizard. Each walk comes with easy-to-read Ordnance Survey maps, clear route description and lots of images, plus information on local beauty spots and tasty refreshment stops. No challenging terrain or complicated navigation means walks can be enjoyed by everyone.
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The best walk to experience Cornwall's mining history and the South West Coast Path...
What: St Agnes Beacon and Wheal Coates
Summary: A short loop taking in one of the most photographed sections of the South West Coast Path and a scenic viewpoint.
Start/finish: White Rocks car park, St Agnes Head
Time: 1½hr
Distance: 4.5km (2¾ miles)
Climb: 150m
A classic loop incorporating the dramatically sited Towanroath Engine House on the South West Coast Path, part of the iconic Wheal Coates mine complex. After easy walking along the coast path, the route moves inland to ascend St Agnes Beacon, a prominent local landmark and viewpoint. The ascent to the summit is steep but short-lived, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the coastal views
The best walk to visit a historic fishing village...
What: St Mawes and St Just-in-Roseland
Summary: A varied circuit from the historic fishing village of St Mawes to one of the most picturesque churches in Cornwall.
Start/finish: St Mawes Quay
Time: 3hr
Distance: 10km (6¼ miles)
Climb: 200m
This walk can easily be combined with the scenic ferry from Falmouth to St Mawes, which takes 20 min and gives an alternative view of historic Falmouth. Much of the route offers views over Carrick Roads, before turning inland at the beautifully situated St Just-in-Roseland Church for a panoramic high-level stroll back to St Mawes.
The best walk to add to a beach day...
What: Falmouth beaches and Pendennis Point
Summary: An easy circuit around the historic harbour town of Falmouth and two sandy beaches.
Start/finish: The Moor, Falmouth
Time: 2½hr
Distance: 9.5km (6 miles)
Climb: 200m
This route shows the very best of Falmouth – with bustling streets giving way to wooded tracks and scenic viewpoints. There’s the opportunity to enjoy two sandy beaches, perfect for a swim, and plenty of cafes and shops along the way.
The best walk to visit mainland Britain's most southerly point...
What: Lizard Point and Church Cove
Summary: A clifftop walk around the most southerly point in mainland Britain to a rocky fishing cove.
Start/finish: The Square, Lizard
Time: 2hr
Distance: 6km (3¾ miles)
Climb: 200m
This easy walk makes use of good footpaths from the centre of Lizard to the dramatic and rugged headland of Lizard Point. Heading east, the route passes a lighthouse and winds over rugged cliffs and around isolated coves before turning inland and returning via quiet country lanes. Watch for the wireless station, site of the first wireless radio transmission in 1901.
The best walk to amble alongside Cornwall's largest freshwater lake...
What: Penrose and Loe Bar
Summary: Follow the path through Penrose Estate alongside Cornwall’s largest freshwater lake to the shingle beach at Loe Bar.
Start/finish: Penrose Estate, Helston
Time: 2hr
Distance: 5.5km (3½ miles)
Climb: 100m
This walk begins with a stroll through the wooded Penrose Estate, in the care of the National Trust. The trails are wide and easy, offering views across Loe Pool, the largest freshwater lake in Cornwall. Drop down towards Loe Bar, a shingle bank which separates Loe Pool from the sea, then return across farmland to the car park. There is also the option to extend this walk to explore the nearby town of Porthleven.
All these walks (plus 10 more!) are included in our guidebook to Short Walks in Cornwall - Falmouth and the Lizard. Other highlights include Truro, Fisherman's Creek (the inspiration behind Daphne du Maurier's novel), Portreath and Tehidy Country Park and much more! Easy-to-read maps and clear route descriptions make these walks perfect for beginners and families. No specialist gear is needed, and each route includes information on facilities, parking, and highlights.
