With so many inspiring walks to choose from, it’s sometimes hard to know where to begin in Cornwall. Following our series looking at the most stunning coastal walks in North Cornwall, this blog explores our favourite coastal trails easily accessible from the doorstep of Kilden Mor. From beachside strolls to decommissioned railway lines there’s something to suit both casual walkers and hardened hikers around Padstow.
The Camel Trail
Following the route of several former railway lines, the Camel Trail offers a mostly flat and accessible walk or cycle through varied and spectacular countryside. Depending on your stamina the 18 mile route helpfully breaks down into more manageable chunks.
Begin by following the Camel estuary from Padstow to Wadebridge and you can stop for refreshments midway at a converted vintage train carriage in Penquean Quarry. From Wadebridge the trail continues deep into the wooded Camel Valley and around Bodmin town. Another line takes you inland to the edge of the Moor, finishing in picturesque Bilsland, and another pitstop at the Inn on the village green.
The final six mile section is generally quieter, following the River Camel and sheltered by beech trees you’ll finally arrive in the sleepy hamlet of Wenford Bridge.
Little Petherick Creek via the Camel Trail
If you only want to see the first part of the Camel Trail, there’s the option of a circular walk that takes you around Little Petherick Creek. Head south out of town and up Dennis Hill, stopping at the obelisk to take in panoramic views over the area. Follow the creek through woodland and meadows and you’ll arrive at the gothic church at Little Petherick.
The path returns home on the other side of the creek, through Sea Mills and onto the Camel Trail, crossing an old railway bridge. Take care to time your walk to avoid high tide, otherwise you’re likely to find the footpath flooded.
Padstow to Trevone Bay via Prideaux Place
We featured part of this walk in our previous blog post, taking you north out of town towards Stepper point before passing some collapsed caves and onto the Blue Flag beach at Trevone.
If you’d like to complete the circle, consider taking the lanes west from Padstow instead. This 3 mile walk passes Prideaux Place, an Elizabethan Manor House and deer park before continuing past a farm shop, perfect for stocking up on supplies for a picnic on the beach. You can find the complete route here.
Rock to St Minver
Take the ferry from Padstow to Rock and you’re ready to begin a six mile circular walk through sand dunes, past historic churches and pubs galore!
Head north from Rock towards Daymer Bay where you’ll find superb views across the Camel Estuary. Next, continue inland past St Enodoc Church and stop to pay homage at the grave of Sir John Betjeman. The midpoint takes you through the picture postcard village of St Miniver with its wonky church spire.
Having walked up a thirst, the final stretch is where you’ll find the pubs including the Pityme, Fourways and Rock Inn. You can find the complete route here.
