walking tours in cornwall uk

  Cornwall: Coastal England Guided Walking Tour    

CORNWALL: COASTAL ENGLAND

6 NIGHTS / 7 DAYS

Ramble with us along the Cornish coast- the longest stretch of continuous coastline in Britain- and discover a piece of heaven. Located on a peninsula in the far west of Great Britain, Cornwall’s magnificent coastline extends for nearly 300 miles. Discover countless spectacular beaches, towering cliffs, sweeping bays, turquoise seas, tiny Cornish fishing villages, bustling harbors, smuggler’s coves, beautiful moorland and lush green countryside.

The Southwest Coastal Path in Cornwall provides quiet and scenic walks in the more tranquil areas of Cornwall. The gentle beauty of the coastline lies in its sheltered river valleys and isolated coves, giving the visitor a sense of spaciousness and intimacy. Inland, the moorland is a dramatic background for the romantic tales associated with King Arthur.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Exmore National Park and Cow Castle
• St. Michael’s Mount – iconic rocky island with a medieval church and castle
• St Ives- a classic Cornish fishing village

Cornwall also has a tremendous history based on its Celtic roots, its Celtic Cornish culture, the warmth and friendliness of the people and the Cornish language that can be seen in the village names.

Cornwall forms the western most part of the south west peninsula of the island of Britain and has strong cultural connections with Wales and Brittany in northern France. This walking holiday takes you to the most picturesque stretches of the famous Cornish coast line and features most of the loveliest traditional fishing villages. There will be a visit to one of the world’s most famous gardens – the Lost Gardens of Heligan – and you will stay in comfortable well located Cornish hotels. 

 Day 1: 

Arrival at the train station in Par (the nearest) or St Austell and transfer to your hotel in Fowey.  The taxi should be pre-ordered, call 01726 832372 or 01726 815415.  Fowey is situated on the west bank of the River Fowey on the south coast of Cornwall between Looe and Mevagissey. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Fowey has a unique charm and holds a special fascination for visitors.  Its quaint cottages, narrow steep winding streets with glimpses of the shimmering river below, and bustling harbor all create an enchanting appeal.  Meet your guide at 6 pm in the hotel bar for a briefing and dinner.  (D)

Day 2: 

Walking in the footsteps of the writer Daphne Du Maurier (Rebecca and Jamaica Inn), this walk takes in wonderful countryside, wooded creeks and stunning coastal views where we stop for a picnic.  There is a wealth of historical and literary interest as well as plenty of opportunities for refreshments.  Walk to Polruan and then take the ferry back to Fowey.  6 miles (B, L, D)

Day 3: 

After breakfast we take a ferry from Fowey to the beautiful fishing village of Mevagissey and from here we walk to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, glorious gardens in typical 19th century fashion, neglected in the 20th century and only recently restored with award-winning international acclaim.   After lunch at the garden cafe we retrace our steps to Mevagissey and take the ferry back to Fowey for the final night in Fowey. 6-miles (B, L, D)

Day 4: 

After breakfast we head south to the pretty town of Marazion set on the shores of Mount's Bay.  While the luggage is transferred to our hotel in Marazion, we get off at the famous beach at Praa Sands and walk along the South West Coastal Path to Prussia Cave and the Mount Haven Hotel.  6.5 miles (B, L, D)

Day 5: 

After breakfast we walk to the famous St Michaels Mount – Once a Benedictine Priory, a fortress and tin mining port it is accessed by a causeway, revealed at low tide, once walked by pilgrims in honor of the alleged apparition of St. Michael. At other times, access is gained by means of small ferry boats. After lunch we return to the mainland and will visit one of the great Cornwall gardens and sculpture park at Tremenheer for a gentle walk. (B, L, D) Overnight Mount Haven 5 miles (B, L, D)

Day 6: 

After breakfast we transfer part of the way and then walk into St Ives, the classic Cornish fishing village which has caught the imagination of artists for a century or more and let to the development of the St Ives school of art.  As a result there are several museums including the Barbara Hepworth museum and the Tate Gallery.  Spend time in this wonderful village followed by a walk along the coast path before returning to Marazion for the final night.  7 miles  (B, L D)

 Day 7: 

Departure after breakfast.  Frequent trains are available from Penzance to London and other destinations. (B)

For the remainder of 2023 and for all of 2024 we will be offering our tours on customized basis only.  This means that you will select you tour, guided or self-guided, select your dates and we will plan your walking tour using the same great guides and accommodations as our group departures.  Group sizes can range from 2 to 12 people. 

Price:  $3,950 - Per Person  /  Double Occupancy

Single Supplement: $475

Your trip price includes the following. 

• 6 scenic and guided walks
• 6 nights' lodging in stunning and historic country hotels
• Double-occupancy room with private bath
• 6 sumptuous breakfasts, 5 packed or pub lunches, 6 dinners
• Sightseeing and admission fees
• Luggage transported between hotels

For additional information, please call or email us at [email protected] and one of our exceptional Travel Advisors will be happy to share with you all kinds of details.

Best Time to Go

May through September

Convenient Airport

London Heathrow (LHR)

London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Birmingham International Airport (BHX)

From Gatwick Airport there are 3 direct flights to Newquay Airport daily.                                                       

Traveling By Rail

The best connected station for Exmoor National Park is Taunton, to the east of the park on the main line through the South West of England with regular connections to Bristol, London, Birmingham and the North. 

We HIGHLY recommend booking your train tickets early as this particular route can sell out or be quite expensive.

On return to London, we recommend a train from Penzance. Taxi from Marazion to Penzance is about £10 - £15.00 and there are plenty of taxis at station and the journey is quite short.

Flights from Gatwick to Newquay Airport is the quickest options - flights by www.flybe.com - transfer from Newquay about £100.00.

For details on schedule and fares please contact BritRail at (800)677-8585 or www.britrail.com. 

Another resource is The Train Line at www.thetrainline.com. 

Follow this link to the Meteorological Office for information on climate and rainfall averages.

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Self-Guided Tours  &  Trip Extensions

England's Coast to Coast

Iconic walk across England 

The Heart of Lakeland

Mountains, lush green valleys, and glistening lakes. 

The Cotwolds Way

The finest villages of the northern Cotswolds. 

Wales: Pembrokeshire Coast Path

The stunning Pembrokeshire coastline.

London Highlights - 4 Days

The Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the National Church of England, Buckingham Palace

Dublin - 3 Days

St. Patrick's Cathedral, Trinity College, National Gallery of Ireland, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Powerscourt Gardens

Scottish Whisky and Golf - 4 Days

Edinburgh, Old Course Experience, whisky Master Class, St Andrews

The World of Downton Abbey

Beaulieu Motor Car Museum, Highclere Castle, Bampton, Blenheim Palace, Ladock village, Bath

Stay in touch 

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England's Cornwall Walking & Hiking Tour

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From $5,599 - $6,049 /person

Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2024 : May-Jun, Sep-Oct 2025 : May-Jun, Aug-Oct

White-Sand Beaches & Charming Coastal Villages in the Footsteps of King Arthur

A glorious seaside escape for busy souls. That’s Cornwall. Seductive ocean breezes draw you to turquoise waters, wild headlands and the most stunning white-sand beaches, where hidden coves wait to be discovered. Explore charming chocolate-box villages and tranquil fishing ports steeped in history. Hike along scenic woodland trails. Your soles will thank you. So will your soul. 

• Explore extensive portions of the South West Coastal Path, the United Kingdom's longest and best-loved National Trail, which traces the English shoreline for hundreds of miles
• Wander down the narrow lanes of whitewashed fishing villages, along rocky Cornish headlands and on white-sand beaches next to turquoise waters
• Marvel at vast ocean views and crumbling medieval castles, including iconic locations from the original legends of King Arthur
• Discover why this idyllic peninsula is so beloved by the English, who come here for the sand and sea and the sunniest weather found in the British Isles

Start/End Exeter

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Exeter Airport (EXT). Alternatively, you can fly into and out of London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) or Gatwick Airport (LGW) and travel to Exeter by train.

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

The steep lanes of Boscastle, clustered around a narrow cove, offer a perfectly charming introduction to Cornwall’s quaint fishing villages • Our first coastal hike winds by watchtowers and tidal blowholes, with a chance for birdwatchers to spot razorbills, guillemots and puffins • Gaze across the water at Tintagel Island, where the wizard Merlin is rumored to haunt the sea caves to this day • The site of a former medieval drawbridge is still our only access point to the ruins of Tintagel Castle, legendary birthplace of King Arthur.

Light, bright and recently remodeled Victorian boutique hotel that fuses coastal charm with a little luxury and a commanding view over the sandbars and sapphire shallows of the Camel River estuary.  

A rugged coastal walk takes you from World War II forts to defenses as old as the Spanish Armada • Check out a still-active lifeboat station, poised to aid in the case of all-too-common shipwrecks • Redefine what you thought you knew about English cuisine • Take in commanding views of shimmering coves as you hike through the South Coast Central Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty • Pop down to the gorgeous beaches of Porthcurnick or Porthbean, or shift gears sunning in the subtropical gardens of our chic hotel.

This cluster of cottages, nestled on a hillside with splendid sea views, adjoins a yacht club and beach club to create an Italian-inspired oasis.  

Hike to a fish-and-chips lunch at Gorran Haven, where a cluster of fishermen’s cottages remains the same as in years gone by • Climb rocky points and trek along windswept headlands as you continue to trace the South West Coastal Path • Our route along the tranquil Fowey and Boddinick estuaries alternates from waterside to woodland paths • Traverse a rugged coastline with sweeping views to the brilliant white sands of Lantic Bay and the quaint village of Lansallos • Your week in Cornwall wouldn’t be complete without a boat ride and a last walk to a castle ruin and a shimmering beach.

This Victorian grande dame dominates the hillside village of Fowey, offering a sweeping view over the estuary and a winning mix of chic and rustic touches.

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

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Walking in Cornwall

Walking in Cornwall is an adventure from start to finish. Explore rugged coastal paths with breathtaking views, embark on countryside trails, discover hidden coves and historic mines, and simply breathe in that fresh sea air.

To be sure you don't miss a thing, our members have curated a number of itineraries for your next walking holiday, or you can even organise a walking tour. Whatever you choose, don't forget your walking boots!

Walks with a view

From dramatic cliff-top paths that overlook the sparkling sea to meandering trails through lush countryside, Cornwall offers a myriad of scenic routes to explore. Discover hidden gems, immerse yourself in nature, and experience the true essence of this remarkable region through the joy of walking. And don't forget to bring your four-legged friends along for the adventure!

Family Friendly Woodland Walks

Cornwall isn't well known for its woodland, trees don't generally like strong winds, and so if you want to explore traditional woodland your best bet is to head to one of the river ...

Five favourite dog walks

Here are five of the best dogs walks in Cornwall as recommended by our friends at South West Coast Path.

Five coastal walks to do this spring

Five walks with breathtaking views chosen from our friends at The South West Coast Path. Breathe in the freshness of the sea and listen to the waves breaking on the shoreline.

The circular walk to Port Quinn along the South West Coast Path and back across the fields is about five miles in length, however it's not the mileage that you need to worry about, it's all the ups and downs and the steps!

But, it's a fantastic walk and well worth all the climbs. Take refreshments with uyou and make a day of it.

The South West Coast Path runs from the Helford Passage towards Falmouth and from the Porthoustock around to Helford on the south side of the estuary. A ferry takes you across.

There's also a permissive footpath alongside the iconic Frenchman's Creek, made famous by Daphne du Maurier's classic novel.

Yes, and it's a lovely walk!

Park down by the river and after buying an ice cream continue downriver passing underneath the railway viaduct. You will pass old Lime Kilns on your right, a reminder of when Calstock was an important port, lime being brought up from Plymouth to spread on the fields as a fertilizer.

At Danescombe a path branches off up a valley where there are several mine buildings dating back to the 1800s.

From Danescombe the path climbs up through the woods, branching right to reach Cotehele House. You can carry on dropping down to Cotehele Quay.

To the house or the quay is about a mile and a half.

Yes you can, the best way is along the South West Coast Path which leaves Hayle and follows the estuary inland past the RSPB nature reserve. It then heads for Lelant before rounding the mouth of the estuary on the west side and heading through Carbis Bay to St Ives.

Approximately seven miles of easy walking, should take about three hours to complete.

You can catch a bus back.

It's easy to walk from the heart of Kingsand to the heart of Cawsand. A narrow street links the two which is sometimes used by traffic, but most people avoid it as it's probably quicker to use the road that runs behind both villages.

You could, but you would have to follow the Camel Trail inland to Wadebridge and then make your way back out along the other side of the estuary to Rock. It's much easier to catch the ferry across from Padstow!!

It's about 9 km (5.5 miles) from Wadebridge to Padstow along the Camel Trail. It's flat all the way on a good hard surface. Most people walk it in about two hours, but it can take longer if you stop to take in the fantastic views!

There are busses back to Wadebridge if you don't fancy the return walk.

Dogs are restricted on the designated beaches at the times listed below Cornwall Council enforces restrictions at the following beaches which are all part of a Public Spaces Protection Order. Other privately owned beaches may have their own local restrictions in force.

Please note: Blue Flag and Seaside Award beaches have longer restrictions due to the requirements of the Award status. In addition there are three protected wildlife areas that are subject to individual restrictions.

Yes, but please keep them on leads during nesting season and also when sheep are lambing. This stretches from March 1st until July 31st.

Help our farmers and our wildlife.

Yes, of course it is! We like to think it is better than Dartmoor, in that it's not so big, easier to navigate over and full of interesting things to see. There's so much history, from prehistoric standing stones to World War Two airfields. And on its south side it is part of Cornwall's World Heritage mining areas.

It's also very close to both the northa nd south coast of Cornwall if you fancy a change of view.

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THE 10 BEST Cornwall Walking Tours

Walking tours in cornwall.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Doc Martin Tour in Port Isaac, Cornwall

2. Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour (Award Winning)

3. Horrors of Falmouth Ghost Tour

4. Walking Tour of Fowey

5. Newquay Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

6. Guided walk on the remote and wild North Cornish coast

7. Guided Heritage Walking Tour in Newlyn

8. Beyond Paradise TV Show Locations Tour

9. Dusk Walking Tour of Fowey

10. Falmouth Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

11. South West Coast Path Walking North Cornwall Coastline (13 days, 12 nights)

12. Beyond Paradise Full Day TV Locations Tour

13. South West Coast Path Walking South Cornwall Coastline (12 days, 11 nights)

14. Lizard Point: A Self-Guided Photography Tour

15. South West Coast Path Walking - Somerset & Devon (11 days, 10 nights)

16. A Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth's Seafaring Past

17. Cornwall's Charm: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Truro

18. Truro Tour App Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz UK

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

South Devon Tour App Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz UK

eBike Guided Historic Waterfront Tour - Plymouth

Plymouth Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

South West Coast Path Walking South Devon Coastline (9 days, 8 nights)

Walking Tour Experience in Plymouth

Torrington English Civil War Trail Walking Guided Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Doc Martin Tour in Port Isaac, Cornwall
• Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour (Award Winning)
• Horrors of Falmouth Ghost Tour
• Walking Tour of Fowey
• Beyond Paradise TV Show Locations Tour
• Cornwall Underground Adventures
• Hidden Paths Cornwall
• Heritage Adventures (Cornwall)
• Newquay Smugglers Walk and Boat Tour
• Newquay Smugglers Walk & Boat Tour
• Charlestown Walking Tours
• Lucy Daniel Guide Fowey Cornwall
• Explore in Cornwall
• Shanty Baba Storyteller
• Cornwall Tour
• Guided Walking Tour of Penzance Town

CORNWALL WALKING HOLIDAYS AND TOURS

Cornwall walking holidays and tours.

Each main month of the holiday season, May to September.

See here for dates: https://adventureline.co.uk/adventureline-holiday-availability-destinations/

Phenomenal walking holidays around Cornwall’s dramatic coastline, moors and countryside – personally guided by local guide, Martin Hunt.

Martin’s ‘in depth’ knowledge of Cornwall (and its varied micro climates) gained over many decades of exploring, enable him to select the best area to explore each day, so that you can immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of the dramatic Cornish coastline and moorlands, its breathtaking scenery, history and wildlife – and as Martin usually knows where to find the sunshine, you’ll probably enjoy it in good weather too!

For the past 36 years, Martin has shared Cornwall’s incredible countryside and her wild Celtic charm with thousands of guests from all over the world. Many of them have regularly told Martin that Cornwall is one of the most beautiful places they have ever seen and explored on foot and they become regulars – returning time and again – and very often then taking one or more of Martin’s tours further afield.

Cornwall juts out almost 100 miles into the Atlantic Ocean and is Britain’s most southwesterly point. Bathed by the Gulf Stream, it is consequently the mildest part of the United Kingdom. Due to Cornwall’s unusual shape and her varied geological makeup, it makes for ever changing scenery, also creating a strange phenomena unique to the west country coastline – individual peninsulas sticking out from one much larger peninsula, and that is Cornwall. Stunning new vistas await you around almost every turn of the coastal footpath. In a county only 90 miles long, there are surprisingly about 15 different types of geology – and every type creates its own unique landforms and scenery. Consequently, most visitors are very surprised at the sheer variety of scenery that Cornwall exudes. The wildlife is spectacular and from late April onwards, there are astonishing arrays of wild flowers (many of them quite rare) that will literally take your breath away.

One of the many remarkable things you’ll experience when on a Cornwall Walking Tour, is that here in Cornwall, we have a rich legacy of industrial archaeology, as well as a lot of prehistoric archaeology. Centuries ago, Cornwall was at the heart of the industrial revolution (although you’d hardly know it these days) and the remains of old tin and copper mines dot the landscape in places – and it was this landscape that inspired Winston Graham to write the famous Poldark novels, now made into a popular television series, loved all over the world. Much much older are the numerous ancient sites, where people from the Stone Age upwards through The Bronze and Iron Ages (circa 10,000 BC to 500 BC) have left their enduring marks in the form of ancient settlements, chambered burial tombs, standing stones and circles, quoits, and other megaliths. In the far west of Cornwall there is a stunning farming landscape designated the finest untouched prehistoric landscape in Europe, where field boundaries made of ancient granite date back over 4,000 years.

If you particularly enjoy wild flora, the best times to take a walking tour in Cornwall are between May and mid summer. However, even after mid summer has passed, there are still many flowers on display, especially the maritime heathers which cloak the cliff tops in many places from mid summer until late autumn, often forming a unique phenomena known as ‘wavy heath’.

Up on the high granite moors, there are ‘Tors’ – giant rocks, exquisitely sculpted into staggering shapes by weathering over thousands of years  – sometimes balanced so finely that one can rock a boulder weighing many tons, simply by standing on it and shifting one’s weight.

Whatever you choose to do during any ‘down moments’, our Cornish walks offer time to relax from the rigours and stresses of everyday life. You will meet ‘like minded’ hikers, stay in excellent accommodation, eat fine locally produced food, enjoy healthy invigorating exercise – and discover nature at its finest. Below in the (expandable) gallery is a further glimpse of Cornwall’s spectacular scenery.

We normally walk Mondays through Fridays, with Saturday reserved for travel to and from Cornwall and Sunday being a free day for rest, personal exploration and/or possibly recovering from a long journey to get here!

Martin’s overall aim when conducting his Cornwall walking tours has always been to share with you what he has found beautiful, magical and inspirational to him. Not only walking, but looking at and immersing yourself in the rejuvenating nature and spirit of Cornwall, quite rightly designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty .

We promise you holiday experiences in Cornwall that you’ll treasure for many years to come – ones that will give you a burning desire to visit Cornwall again and again. We measure our success by the fact that a large number of our guests regularly do return – often over and over again. As an example (above), see Martin with a group of women from British Columbia – in a Cornish poppy field (in June). As a group, they have now toured with Adventureline some 6 times… and a few of them individually, 8 times.

Many other famous writers and artists have found their inspiration in Cornwall, such as Barbara Hepworth, Bernard Leach, John le Carré, Patrick Gale, Daphne du Maurier, Mary Wesley, Arther Quiller-Couch, Derek Tangye, EV Thompson, John Betjeman, William Golding, Thomas Hardy and AL Rowse – and many others too numerous to mention.

Come and find your own inspiration – on a Cornwall Walking Holiday. And perhaps one day you too will create something memorable!

Prices for our Cornwall Walking Holidays in 2024 range from just under £1,000 per person in B&B’s (with evening meals at your own expense) – rising to as much as £1,308 if staying in a good hotel. A single room supplement applies at some accommodations. For full details, please download our 2024 Cornwall brochure and 2024 accommodations and tariff here:

For comprehensive colour brochures (as PDF’s) of our other Walking Tours on The Magical Isles of Scilly, click the “Holiday Availabiity” tab to check if there is any availability first, then if there is please request a brochure

Explore our Cornwall accommodation and FAQ pages by clicking the links at the top of this page.

To view photographs from many of our past Cornwall Walking Holidays, please visit our Facebook  page.

Images of Cornwall

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Cornwall Cultural Walking Tour

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When the British decide to stride out on a country walk, they're likely to head for Cornwall. Who are we to disagree? On our Cornwall walking tours, the well-established footpaths are some of the finest in the civilized world. The sea is Mediterranean blue. The headlands offer fine trails with terrific views punctuated by lighthouses. This is, after all, the neighborhood of Land’s End where quiet coves once harbored infamous pirates and smugglers. You’ll find history and legend around every Cornish corner. There’s Tintagel, according to legend the birthplace of King Arthur. Like an offshore mirage, St. Michael’s Mount rises above the bay, drawing pilgrims (and us). And everywhere, cozy villages, warm friends and—we confess—the occasional cream tea with scones and jam and clotted cream always leave us feeling very at home.

• Explore Mousehole, a beautiful Cornish village with views across the bay to St. Michael's Mount 

• Take a quintessential coastal walk, surrounded by banks of golden gorse, azure water, grey granite cliffs and wide skies 

• Enjoy an 'only with Classic Journeys' walk to the former Benedictine monastery on St. Michael’s Mount 

• Visit the Victorian cathedral in Truro, ambling through the mysterious gardens and ancient woodlands of the Lost Gardens of Heligan

• Explore Fowey with our local friend, in the heart of Daphne du Maurier country and the center of the region’s lively maritime trade

• Meet up with a local ecologist guide who escorts us to Zennor, where traces of Stone and Bronze Age works are still visible 

• Get up close to Tintagel Castle and its haunting beauty 

• Wander the gardens of the 17th-century Lanhydrock House before parting company in Bodmin for trains to London

Starting Point:

Ending point:.

Click map to enlarge

Dates & Prices

The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won’t be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. Talk with one of our travel experts at 800-200-3887 .

Select our “Family Departure” to travel with other families.

Why Choose Classic Journeys

• Experience the world on foot and at eye level . Each day, join your guide on the most cinematic footpaths in the region.
• Exceptional full-time local guides who become your well-connected friend . Our amazing guides are with you throughout each day of the tour, share their lifelong connections as well as engaging anecdotes about the history and culture of the region.
• Small groups that provide you unrivaled access . An average of fewer than 10 guests per departure means we can offer you special access to sites like Stonehenge so you experience the stone circle when it’s closed to the general public, a guided visit to Zion Narrows that other companies cannot arrange because of larger group sizes, and vineyard walks with a count and countess in Tuscany.
• Award-winning hotels are waiting for you at the end of every day . Luxuriate in the finest and most distinctive accommodations in the region you’re exploring, including rainforest lodges, 16th century villas, and award-winning properties that show up on World’s Best and Gold lists.
• Eat like (and with) the locals. Food is a foolproof way into the hearts, homes and history of the places you visit with us. From gourmet picnics to coveted local restaurants, our meals offer you opportunities to explore native food traditions and fine dining.
• Handcrafted itineraries with all activities included . With our long-term friendships, we know our walking tour regions more personally than anyone else. So you get thoughtfully curated itineraries that combine explorations of the villages, organic farms, archeological sites and the people who know them best.
• Sustainable travel that supports the places you’re visiting . We put our local currency into the pockets of the people who live where we travel. It’s your guarantee that you’ll have authentic, up-close experiences on your trip. Best of all, our person-to-person approach helps sustain their ways of life.

Accommodations

We spend years cultivating personal relationships with our hoteliers to provide you thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Here is a sampling of our favorite hotels on this tour. 

Fowey Hotel

This is the quintessential Cornish hotel, sitting majestically above the River Fowey estuary. Comfortable rooms offer great views. The property is known and loved for its friendly, relaxed atmosphere, and the food from its award-winning restaurant.

St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa

Perfectly located just steps away from Porthminster Beach, this Cornish hotel is a charming seaside retreat. Offering modern amenities, a luxurious spa and friendly hospitality, a stay at St. Ives Harbour Hotel is truly memorable.

What’s Included

• Award-winning boutique hotels that provide you unlimited access to the people and places, culture and history you came to experience
• All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 5 dinners
• Full-time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip and handle behind-the-scenes logistics
• Admissions to tastings, historic sites and other scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary
• Gratuities for hotels, meals, and baggage
• All land transportation during the trip

Above & Beyond Benefits

Privileged access events.

• One-of-a-kind access to remarkable people, places and activities arranged just for you.

Invisible Check-In

• When your group arrives, we whisk you and your bags to your room immediately. No waiting – no tipping.

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THE 10 BEST Cornwall Walking Tours

Walking tours in cornwall.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Doc Martin Tour in Port Isaac, Cornwall

2. Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour (Award Winning)

3. Horrors of Falmouth Ghost Tour

4. Walking Tour of Fowey

5. Newquay Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

6. Guided walk on the remote and wild North Cornish coast

7. Guided Heritage Walking Tour in Newlyn

8. Dusk Walking Tour of Fowey

9. A Self-Guided Tour Through Falmouth's Seafaring Past

10. Falmouth Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

11. South West Coast Path Walking North Cornwall Coastline (13 days, 12 nights)

12. Beyond Paradise Full Day TV Locations Tour

13. South West Coast Path Walking South Cornwall Coastline (12 days, 11 nights)

14. Beyond Paradise TV Show Locations Tour

15. Lizard Point: A Self-Guided Photography Tour

16. South West Coast Path Walking - Somerset & Devon (11 days, 10 nights)

17. Cornwall's Charm: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Truro

18. Truro Tour App Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz UK

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

South Devon Tour App Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz UK

eBike Guided Historic Waterfront Tour - Plymouth

Plymouth Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

South West Coast Path Walking South Devon Coastline (9 days, 8 nights)

Walking Tour Experience in Plymouth

Torrington English Civil War Trail Walking Guided Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Doc Martin Tour in Port Isaac, Cornwall
• Falmouth Uncovered Walking Tour (Award Winning)
• Horrors of Falmouth Ghost Tour
• Walking Tour of Fowey
• Beyond Paradise TV Show Locations Tour
• Cornwall Underground Adventures
• Hidden Paths Cornwall
• Heritage Adventures (Cornwall)
• Newquay Smugglers Walk and Boat Tour
• Newquay Smugglers Walk & Boat Tour
• Charlestown Walking Tours
• Lucy Daniel Guide Fowey Cornwall
• Explore in Cornwall
• Shanty Baba Storyteller
• Cornwall Tour
• Guided Walking Tour of Penzance Town

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Walking & Cycling Tours in Cornwall

• Explore the tiny streets of iconic Cornish fishing villages like Mousehole and Newlyn
• Follow the St Michael’s Way, a Cornish official Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route 
• Visit the village of Tintagel and discover its mystical connections to King Arthur 
• Savor freshly-caught fish and handmade chips at Rick Stein’s famous Padstow restaurant
• Stand at the tip of the Trevose Head peninsula, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Feel the sand between your toes on wide, sandy beaches

Cornwall is one of the most picturesque regions of England, with rocky cliffs looking over azure waters, colourful fishing villages and harbours, a rich mining history and vast golden, sandy beaches being just some of the highlights. Walk through dramatic coastal landscapes or cycle to the surfing capital of Newquay. And to finish it all off feast on fresh fish and chips in a harbour-side cafe!

The South West Coast Path features highly in our tours here, but there is so much to enjoy in this beautiful corner of England. Make the most of the local food and hospitality by walking  Cornwall In Style , or cycle the   Camel Trail and Cornish Way .  Whichever adventure you choose, our team just love Cornwall, so we look forward to helping your plan your trip here! 

Macs Adventure have been booking tours in this region since 2008, and are experts in all things Cornish! As always, our self-guided tours offer handpicked accommodations, baggage transfer, and full support to provide you with a wonderful walking or cycling experience.

Featured Tours - Cornwall

Classic Cornwall Cycling

Cornwall: Padstow to St Michael's Mount

Highlights of Cornwall's South Coast

Highlights of Cornwall's North Coast

South West Coast Path: St Ives to Penzance (7 Days & 6 Nights)

South West Coast Path: Westward Ho! to Padstow (10 Days & 9 Nights)

South West Coast Path: Padstow to St Ives (8 Days & 7 Nights)

Discover cornwall.

Thinking of walking the South West Coast Path? There is so much information on this mammoth coastal hike that sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. 

Luckily it is Macs Adventure to the rescue! Simply download our Free 14-page South West Coast Path guide from the link below to read on your phone, tablet or good old printed page.  

Download your Free South West Coast Path Guide

The picturesque landscapes of Cornwall have inspired many a film-maker and TV producer and here we list some of the famous locations used as sets which you can keep an eye out for whilst you are walking!

Doc Martin -  this popular TV series featuring Martin Clunes was largely filmed in the colourful fishing town of Port Isaac. Fern Cottage in Port Isaac is the fictional Doctor Ellingham's surgery and St Nonna's Church is the setting of Doc Martin's wedding. 

Poldark -  with its famous large collection of ships, Charlestown was the location for the TV series Poldark, which has captured the hearts of many! Other Cornish locations used in this series are the mines at Botallack, Bodmin Moor, Porthcurno Beach and Kynance Cove. 

James Bond Die Another Day -  the opening beach of this blockbuster which features a "Korean" beach is actually Holywell Bay in Cornwall!

Ladies in Lavender -   this romantic comedy featuring Dame Judi Dench and Maggie Smith is set in several locations in Cornwall including Cadgwith Cove, Penzance and Helston. 

One thing is sure - you will not go hungry whilst walking in Cornwall! Home to some of the finest seafood and with an abundance of fresh local produce, Cornwall is a great place to explore for any food-lovers! Here are some of the regional delights you can expect to find;

The famous Cornish Pasty -  great fuel for any walker, this treat is made with  short crust pastry and traditionally filled with diced potato, swede, onion, diced or minced beef. Tradition dictates for them to be a proper pasty they must have 20 crimps (the little design on the side).

Cornish Cream Tea -  perfect as a treat in the middle of the afternoon (or any time really!) the Cream Tea consists of fruit scones served with clotted cream and jam, accompanied by a fresh pot of tea. Interestingly, in Devon cream tea's are also very popular but there they serve them with the cream on the bottom and jam on the top, whereas in Cornwall it is the other way round! 

Saffron Cake -  a delicious fruit bun made with the most expensive spice in the world, Saffron! Apparently Saffron arrived in Cornwall when Phoenician traders arrived to trade it for tin from the mines.

Rick Stein's Padstow -  the famous Seafood Restaurant owned by Rick Stein is a Cornwall institution, in operation since 1975. They serve the freshest fish and shellfish and your experience here is sure to be a memorable one - just make sure you book in advance!

Cornish Yarg -  for cheese-lovers, you'll be right at home in Cornwall where there are over 60 varieties produced. The Yarg is one of the most famous, which is a hard cheese made from cow's milk and a rind made from nettle. 

Stargazy Pie -  originating in the tiny village of Mousehole, this unique pie combines eggs, potatoes and pilchards. What makes it so striking is the fact that the pilchards are left sticking out of the pastry on top - or stargazing as such! 

Join us on a walk from St Ives to Penzance on the South West Coast Path. This remote and exhilarating walk along the clifftops visits the bustling towns, golden sands and secluded coves of Cornwall.

The South West Path stretches around the south-west peninsula of England, exposing dramatic coastal scenery as the walk unfolds.  The route is split into several delightful sections as walking the entire route at once would be rather time-consuming.  This video gives you an overview of the route and how best to tackle it.  

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Guided Walks Cornwall

…get closer to nature.

Discover Cornwall’s extraordinary wildlife and explore the hidden corners, dramatic, spectacular cliffs, wide open moors and secret places walking with one of Cornwall’s leading naturalists.

Guided walks with Explore in Cornwall will get you away from the crowds and well-worn tourist trails. You will be able to experience the iconic wildlife, ancient landscapes and hidden wonders you won’t find in the usual guide books whilst in the company of one of Cornwall’s leading wildlife experts. Cornwall has some of the best wildlife, landscape, scenery and coast in Britain, recognised by  Cornish Mining World Heritage Site and Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , National Nature Reserves and the Special Areas of Conservation .

With over 300 miles of the National Trail, the South West Coast Path , Cornwall has the longest coastal path in Britain. Walking and hiking the coast path as well as the many inland paths, tracks and trails is the best way to explore and discover the amazing wildlife and inspiring environments that are found here in the south west of England.

We provide the best quality wildlife walking experience and our attention to details ensures this.  We collect you from your accommodation or arrival point in our comfortable transport, provide high quality binoculars for clients use and leading brand waterproofs can be hired for those who do not have their own wet weather gear.

We operate all year round and across Cornwall and provide the opportunity to experience the special wildlife through all 4 seasons.

With Explore in Cornwall you can:

• Spend time discovering the prolific wildlife and heritage of Cornwall, guided by a leading naturalist and qualified Mountain Leader.
• Walk breathtaking cliff top coastal paths, discover secret coves, trek into secluded valleys and explore the wild moors that make up Cornwall’s natural treasures.
• Have the hidden tracks and signs of our most elusive creatures such as otters revealed to you.
• Choose to join a selection of carefully researched walks that we offer, half or whole days in length, or book a day just for you and your family or group.
• Have your own special tailor made day and a wildlife experience that leaves lasting memories.
• Develop your own outdoor skills and navigation techniques by booking some training.

Guided Walks

Private Guiding

Get in Touch

(01736) 740234 / (07929) 065510, [email protected].

exploreincornwall

From the Blog......

Explore in cornwall in the news, walking with poldark, a walk with a difference, cornwall’s special wildlife, cornwall’s superstars of nature, trip advisor.

• 10 reviews of Explore in Cornwall Day Tours in Penzance

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• South West Coast Path (Cornwall)

Why go walking on the South West Coast Path (Cornwall)?

• Experience the beautiful and dramatic Atlantic coastline of west Cornwall and follow part of the longest and most spectacular National Trail in the UK around Lands End - the most westerly tip of Britain.
• Our South West Coast Path tours focus on the most spectacular section of the trail from Padstow to Penzance along the south-west coast of Cornwall, also known as the Cornwall Coastal Path .
• Walk over miles of fine, sandy beaches, through secluded coves and along remote clifftops while looking out for seals, dolphins, basking sharks and maybe even whales.
• Enjoy fresh Cornish fish, Cornish pasties and Cornish ice-cream and discover Cornish place names (‘Zawn a Bal’, anyone?) as you visit quiet villages in one of the 'Celtic Nations’.

What's Included:

• Top-Choice Accommodation
• Detailed Itinerary, Maps & GPS Tracks
• Baggage Transfer
• Insider Tips
• 24/7 Support
• Access your tour details & documents on the go with your designated Hillwalk Tours account

What's Excluded:

• Travel to and from tour start and end points
• Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
• Travel insurance
• Hiking equipment

The South West Coast Path is an official National Trail and the longest waymarked long-distance footpath in England and Wales. It stretches for 1,014 km (630 miles), from Minehead in Somerset, along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, to Poole Harbour in Dorset.

The Path was originally created by coastguards, patrolling the south west peninsula, looking out for smugglers. On their walk from lighthouse to lighthouse the coastguards needed to be able to look down into every little bay and cove. For that reason the path closely hugs the coast and provides excellent views and opportunities to observe the landscape and wildlife.

Today the South West Coast Path has been transformed into a recreational trail that has twice been voted ‘Britain’s Best Walking route’ and regularly features in lists of the world’s best walks. The route takes in tiny fishing villages, rocky headlands, bustling seaside resorts, wooded estuaries and golden beaches washed over by Atlantic surf. The area is rich in wildlife such as seabirds, wild flowers, dolphins, seals and even whales.

Our walking tours focus on the 173km (107.5 miles) long central section of the South West Coast Path in south west Cornwall, between Padstow and Penzance. This part of the trail is also known as the ‘Cornwall Coast Path’ and offers some of the best coastal walking in Europe.

Walking the path is one of the best ways to explore what makes Cornwall, a land of myth and legend, so unique and special. In addition hikers are often reminded of the industrial past in the form of quarrying, mining, lime burning, fishing and boat building. In acknowledgement of centuries of tin and copper mining, six areas adjacent to the South West Coast Path are now part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site.

Choose Your Hike

Prices / what's included, accommodation, extra days/activities, travel info, why choose hillwalk tours, more reading.

We offer different tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require

Gentle Hikes

Our Gentle Hiking Tours are designed with the part-time hiker in mind.

People for whom taking photos, meeting the locals and enjoying a long lunch are as important as the hike itself.

Average Hiking Distance: 12-13km (7.5-8 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 3.5-5 hours per day

Moderate Hikes

Our Moderate Hiking Tours will suit people who are used to regular exercise.

Hikers will appreciate the chance to cover plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits.

Although this tour is graded as 'Moderate' there are some days that are more challenging, due to length of the hikes, the amount of ups and downs and/or rugged terrain. This applies in particular to the section between St Ives and Porthcurno.

Average Hiking Distance: 18-19.5km (11-12 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 4-7 hours per day

Challenging Hikes

Are you the type of hiker who sets off in the morning and doesn’t stop until they reach their destination?

If yes, then our Challenging Hiking Tours will be just right for you.

Average Hiking Distance: 23-31.5km (15-20 miles) per day Average Hiking Time: 5-8 hours per day

Starting in Padstow, a charming fishing port surrounded by glorious sandy beaches, at the head of the Camel River, the route follows the shores of the Camel Estuary. Winding through little coves the trail then descends to Porthcothan Bay, passes the large Iron Age fort remains at Trevelgue Head and continues to bustling Newquay, surfing capital of the UK.

Coves and headlands lead to Perranporth Beach. From there onwards the remains of tin mines often dot the landscape. Clifftop paths lead past Porthtowan to the harbour at Portreath. The trail now slowly climbs for a few kilometres before descending to a ‘Hell’s Mouth’, a spectacular breach in the cliffs.

Look out for seals and other wildlife as the trail passes near the lighthouse at Godrevy Point. A long beach walk leads to the busy port of Hayle. Sand dunes and more beaches link this with the delightful seaside resort of St Ives, once the most important fishing port in Cornwall.

Further on, the route passes the ‘Carracks’, notorious ship-wrecking rocks, before continuing west along the coast past coves and old tin mines. After Pendeen Watch lighthouse the path visits Cape Cornwall and skirts a little inland past St. Just village. It then, once more, hugs the coast on its way to the pretty fishing village of Sennan Cove.

Nearby is famous Land’s End, where the Atlantic pounds landmarks such as ‘Wolf Rock’ and the ‘Long Ships’. Continuing to Porthcurno the trail passes a famous open-air theatre at Minack Point. A little further a sheltered, seemingly sub-tropical valley at Lamorna invites for a break in an old smuggler’s pub.

Not far from there, the impressive St. Michael’s Mount can often be seen on the far side of Mount’s Bay. Passing through the pretty fishing village of Mousehole the route enters the busy resort of Newlyn and finally Penzance, the end of our longest tours.

Terrain Overview

The walking on the South West Coast Path is generally easy with well maintained footpaths and pleasant beaches and, for most sections, the route never strays far from villages and towns. The terrain between St Ives and Pendeen is more rugged and challenging, but is not beyond anybody with a reasonable level of fitness

The highest point of this section of the trail is only 110m above sea level and in general the route stays well below 100m. However there are many ups and downs throughout the route where the trail climbs from cliff height down to sea level and then back up again. The total aggregate ascent adds up to approximately 5,300m over the route from Padstow to Penzance.

Elevation Profile

Terrain by Stages

Padstow to Porthcothan Bay: Mostly grassy trails along exposed cliff-top paths with occasional pleasant beach walking. Like most of the Coast Path there is a bit of ‘up and down’ throughout the day.

Porthcothan Bay to Newquay: For most of the day the trail follows coastal paths with several short ascents and descents. There is some walking on paved footpaths and roads into Newquay.

Newquay to Perranporth: The first part of the walk is mainly in an urban or suburban setting. You then have a choice of four different options to cross the River Gannel by ferry or tidal bridges. After that the trail becomes more rural along quiet paths, tracks, beaches, sand dunes and grassy clifftop paths. The day’s walk also contains some steep but short climbs.

Perranporth to Portreath: The route first passes through some heathland and then follows grassy cliff top paths and tracks. These can be rugged and stony in places. Frequent climbs in and out of coves and bays.

Portreath to Hayle: After a few short, but rather steep climbs at the beginning of the walk, the trail settles down and continues at a gentler gradient. A mixture of cliff-top paths, trails through sand dunes and a little bit of road walking.

Hayle to St Ives: Roads and paved footpaths out of Hayle are taking the trail inland at first. From Lelant, the walk passes through some dunes on sandy paths. It then follows wooded paths through green areas all the way into St Ives.

St Ives to Gurnard’s Head: A particularly beautiful but remote and exposed section with regular steep ascents and descents. Rocky and sometimes very rugged and wet underfoot.

Gurnard’s Head to St Just: Regular steep ascents and descents with some wet sections before you reach Pendeen. Easier terrain after passing Geevor Tin Mine and less remote around Cape Cornwall.

St Just to Porthcurno (via Land’s End)

: A good mix of walking along relatively even surfaces but also regular steep ascents and descents. Easy gravel paths between Sennen Cove and Land’s End and more remote after passing Land’s End.

Porthcurno (via Land’s End) to Penzance: Regular ascents and descents in and out of remote coves with some rugged terrain and sometimes wet ground on the way to Mousehole. After that the hike finishes with level and more urban asphalt walking.

What’s Included in the Price?

• Stay in our friendly, family-run guesthouses
• Relax in luxurious en-suite bedrooms *
• Big breakfasts will keep you going all day long
• Luggage? Don’t worry, we’ll move it for you!
• Detailed maps, route notes and GPS tracks mean you’ll never get lost
• Walking directions written and updated by the Hillwalk Tours team
• Local alternative/supplementary route options based on local knowledge
• Our waterproof map-case keeps your maps and documents dry
• If you need to contact us, we’re here 24/7 to help
• Insider tips on the best places to eat and drink **
• Explore the local history and culture in our fascinating guides
• Discover the most interesting attractions on the trail
• Need info on transport ? We’re happy to help

* Unless already booked out in which case we’ll try to secure a private bathroom

** You will have the opportunity to purchase picnic lunches and evening meals each day. If you are staying in a remote location, your hosts will usually look after this for you upon request.

Please Note:

We occasionally charge additional supplements on the Southwest Coast Path (Cornwall)  for tours starting during the high season. This is due to higher costs involved in booking our upgrade option or in cases where our normal accommodation suppliers do not have availability, and an alternative, more expensive, supplier is sourced with your approval.

Transfer Note: Due to the popularity of Cornwall and the remoteness of some parts of the path, transfers on and off the trail are required, as are multiple night stays in some accommodation locations. Standard transfers are mentioned on our itinerary pages, but more may be required in order to book your tour. The cost of all transfers is built into the price but for groups of 4 walkers or more, additional transfers may be required which can incur a small surcharge.

Accommodation Note: Twin Rooms (two single beds) and Triple Rooms (three single beds) are unavailable in most accommodation on the South West Coast Path (Cornwall). Double Rooms (one double bed) and Family Rooms (one double bed and one single bed) may be provided. Alternatively, we can book two separate rooms which will incur a single supplement charge.

The South West Coast Path (Cornwall) passes through many coastal villages. Treat yourself to a day off along the way and relax on the beach!

Padstow: With its lively harbour and shops, cafes and restaurants Padstow is an ideal base to soak up the unique Cornish atmosphere .

St Agnes : Relax on one of the four golden beaches in this picturesque village with its thriving community and many galleries and craft workshops.

St Ives: Explore the narrow cobbled streets and picturesque harbour of this bustling fishing town where museums, cafes, galleries and beautiful beaches invite to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Penzance: Stroll along the magnificent promenade with its famous Jubilee Pool or visit the nearby amazing island world of St Michael’s Mount with over a thousand years of history.

Booking Extra Days

• Choose WHERE you wish to stay.
• Decide HOW MANY NIGHTS you need.
• Go to the BOOKING FORM and fill in the ‘Extra Nights Required/Other Requests’ section

The costs of extra nights during your South West Coast Path (Cornwall) hiking tour start from  £75 per person per night and from £100 for single hikers who will have their own private room. 

Please note that if you book any extra nights in a location not included in your tour itinerary, you will have to make your own arrangements to transfer your bags to this location.

Staying at the very best accommodation during your time in England can transform a “good” hiking tour into a “great” hiking tour.

That’s why, at Hillwalk Tours, we take the quality of our accommodation partners seriously. So much so that you will find we strive to only work with high-quality and well-reviewed accommodation. Additionally, most of our accommodation partners have been personally checked by a member of the Hillwalk Tours team to ensure your comfort.

As keen hikers ourselves we know you’ll want somewhere relaxing to put your feet up in the evening. A place where a warm smile from your hosts makes you feel welcome as soon as you step through the door. If your hiking gear gets wet, it’s nice to know that you can dry it or, if you ask, it may even be taken from you and returned nice and dry the next morning.

Comfy beds, en-suite bathrooms (where available), tasty breakfast menus, and a friendly & cosy atmosphere – these are all the things that we like so you can rest assured that we’ll do our best to find them for you as well.

To find out more about the types of accommodation you can expect to find on a Hillwalk Tours walking holiday, read here: Accommodation on your Walking Tour

In addition, if you’d like to stay an extra night at any location during your hiking tour, just let us know.

Due to limited accommodation options in some locations on your tour, we may need to book you into accommodation which will require transfers to/from your hike start/end point or where you will have private bathroom facilities instead of an ensuite. We may also need to book you into the same accommodation for more than one night to cover multiple locations. The cost of this is covered in your basic tour price and will not affect your tour itinerary.

In general, we try to book accommodation which is as close to the local amenities as possible. If you are staying in a remote location (where access to local pubs/restaurants is not feasible), the hosts of the accommodation that you are staying at will ensure that you are well fed.

Getting to and from your South West Coast Path (Cornwall) hiking tour is easy… when you know how!

In your walking pack, you will receive all the necessary public transport information you need to make your journey as convenient as possible.

In the meantime, if you’d like to do some advance planning yourself, here are our tips:

Most Convenient Airports

• Newquay Airport
• Bristol Airport
• Exeter Airport

Sustainable Travel (from Europe)

• Travel by Ferry to the UK Sail from ports in the Netherlands, France, Ireland and Spain to Dover, Hull, Harwich, Portsmouth & others in the UK. See list of Routes from Continental Europe & Ireland to UK Ports
• Travel by Train to the UK From Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam or Amsterdam to London via Eurostar
• Travel by Bus to the UK From Europe to London / Manchester From Europe to the UK From the Netherlands & France to London

Public Transport

• Most Starting Locations Train Bus

Departing from Cornwall after your Hiking Tour:

Use train or bus services to Newquay, Bristol, Exeter or London.

Travelling by car?

If you would like to leave your car at the first or last accommodation on your tour, for the duration of the tour, then you can directly contact the accommodation owners before the start of your tour to check that this is possible. We will provide contact details for the accommodation provider.

• About Our Tours

Tour Grading

How to book, don't forget.., during your tour, about our england hiking tours.

The Hadrian’s Wall Path can be hiked both from East to West (towards Bowness-on-Solway) or from West to East (towards Newcastle). The ‘original direction’ was to start from Newcastle and hike towards Bowness, but recently many hikers are hiking the trail from West to East, towards Newcastle.

If you are looking for Hadrian’s Wall Tours running from East to West (Newcastle to Bowness-on-Solway), please click here .

If you are looking for Hadrian’s Wall Tours running from West to East (Bowness-on-Solway to Newcastle), please click here .

There are arguments that can be made for either direction and it really is down to personal preference:

Why walk the trail in a West to East direction?

In recent years many hikers choose to walk the trail from west to east, i.e. starting from Bowness-on-Solway and hiking towards Newcastle. The main reason for this direction is that the prevailing winds in the UK are usually blowing from the west. If you are walking from west to east you will therefore generally have the wind at your back.

Another reason is that many of the best views along the centre section of the route are from west to east and some say that you also get a better understanding of how the Wall was laid out by travelling in this direction. Lastly, it is a lot easier to travel onwards after finishing in Newcastle, when compared to Bowness, and some hikers feel that there may be something poetic about finishing a hike along the Wall in a place called ‘Wallsend.’

Why walk the trail in an East to West direction?

The official guidebook describes the route of the Hadrian’s Wall Path from east to west, i.e. starting from Newcastle. Many hikers feel that it is ‘more natural’ to walk out of a big city into the open country, and to finish on the quiet Solway estuary, which seems a better place to reflect on your achievement than urban and industrial Wallsend in Newcastle.

It usually also makes getting to the start of the walk easier due to the better transport connections to Newcastle. Furthermore, starting this way, you get the long stretch along the B6318 Military Road out of your way early on in your tour. You also get a little more Roman archaeology from each day to the next and the scenery improves the further west you go – up to a point. Lastly, you will be following the direction in which the Romans built the Wall, which is why the turrets and milecastles are also numbered from east to west.

Our “Slow Adventure” hiking tours of the Hadrian’s Wall Path focus on the most exciting central section and cover less daily distance than our standard Gentle itineraries. They are designed to provide hikers with a more immersive and relaxed experience while exploring the rich history and stunning landscapes of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. This type of tour is perfect for those who prefer a slower pace, allowing them more time to enjoy and explore the archaeology and attractions along the central section of Hadrian’s Wall.

Highlights and Features

• Leisurely Pace: The primary focus of this “Slow Adventure” tour is to encourage a more leisurely pace, allowing participants to take their time to appreciate the sites and scenery. This means shorter daily walking distances of 12-13 km (7.5-8 miles)
• In-Depth Exploration: The shorter distances give you more time to explore the history and archaeology of Hadrian’s Wall and visit the attractions along the route where in-depth explanations and stories bring the fascinating history of the Wall back to life.
• Hidden Gems: This tour is designed to let you spend more time at some of the lesser-known and less-visited sections of Hadrian’s Wall where you have the opportunity to discover hidden archaeological treasures and enjoy moments of solitude.
• Flexible Daily Itinerary: The daily hikes are short, which allows you to adapt to your own pace and interests. This means more time to linger at a fascinating ruin, enjoy a breathtaking view, or chat with fellow travelers.
• Leave No Trace: Emphasis on responsible and sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that the natural and cultural heritage of Hadrian’s Wall is preserved for future generations.

In summary, our “Slow Adventure” hiking tours of the Hadrian’s Wall Path are all about taking your time, immersing yourself in the history and beauty of the area, and savoring every moment of the journey. It’s an opportunity to connect with the landscape, the archaeology, and the stories that make Hadrian’s Wall such a unique and captivating destination.

A self-guided hiking tour means you are hiking without a guide.

Hillwalk Tours will provide you with all the resources you need to successfully complete the trail alone or in the company of good friends. We’ll plan your route, transfer your bags and show you all the best places to visit but you decide whether you want that extra hour in bed in the morning! All this gives you the freedom to enjoy the trails and the wonderful countryside at your own pace.

Find out more about the benefits of a self-guided hiking tour in comparison to a guided tour here .

Choosing the right hiking tour can be tricky. It’s important to consider the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. To make your decision easier, we have drawn up a menu of Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hiking tours.

Before we explain the difference between the various grades, it is important to note that each hiking tour within a specific region follows the same official hiking trail. For example, if you choose to go walking in Kerry in Ireland, it doesn’t matter whether you pick a ‘Gentle’ tour or a ‘Challenging’ tour – you will still be walking along the official ‘Kerry Way’ trail. To make these walking trails more accessible to all walkers, we have either 1) picked out the sections of the walking trails that are less demanding or 2) shortened the average daily hike between accommodations.

• Same Trail, Easier Sections: For example, on the Kerry Way in Ireland, our ‘Gentle’ tours are restricted to the less demanding sections of the trail while our ‘Challenging’ tours cover the entire trail including the most difficult sections.
• Same Trail, Shorter Distances: For example, on the Hadrian’s Wall Path in England, you can walk the entire trail on a 8-Day Challenging Tour, a 10-Day Moderate Tour or a 11-Day Gentle Tour. However, while the Challenging tour requires you to keep up a brisk pace of 23km (14.5 miles) per day on average, the Moderate tour has a more leisurely average of 18km (11.25 miles) per day and the Gentle tour only requires an average walking distance of 15km per day.

Below is a general overview of each tour grading level. Note that the figures for ‘Average Daily Hike’ and ‘Hiking Time’ may vary between regions. Poor weather conditions can affect the average hiking time which is based on a person of normal fitness walking at a moderate speed of around 4km/h (2.5 mph). The hiking time takes into account the terrain covered but not the time required for lunch stops, photos, etc. For more details on daily distances, the level of ascent and the terrain the trail crosses; refer to the itinerary page of each individual tour.

12-18km (8-11 miles)  3-6 hours

Our Gentle Hiking Tours are designed with the part-time hiker in mind. While you can still expect some climbs, these tours offer the shortest average daily hikes, which in turn means less ups and downs. This will give you plenty time to enjoy the sights and scenery, take photos, have a long lunch and, if necessary, negotiate the more tricky sections of a walk.

 16-23km (10-14 miles)   4-7 hours

Challenging

 22-30km (14-19 miles)   5-9 hours

Our core purpose at Hillwalk Tours is to create experiences that make people happy. Some of the ways we try to achieve this, and ensure you have the best possible experience with us, include;

The biggest choice of itineraries for the trails we offer, guaranteed –  We want you to explore these areas of outstanding natural beauty at your own pace, with nearly 400 itineraries to choose from across 21 different trails (and we’re always looking to add more).

We book your tour direct, always –  We don’t book third-party companies to organise tours for our customers. We don’t resell tours from other third-party companies. We always directly book and operate all of our tours ourselves.

Creating memorable self-guided hiking tours is all we focus on, nothing else! –  We just focus on creating and organising self-guided hiking tours, and nothing else! And we’ve been doing it for quite some time (since 2008), with over 20,000 hiking tours taken with us so far, and growing…

You can access your tour information easily –  You will receive a designated Hillwalk Tours account where you can login to access all your tour documents, trail GPS file, and other important details. Access your tour information anytime, anywhere, and on any device.

We don’t do off-the-shelf guidebooks  – We personally walk each trail we offer & create our own detailed route notes. By doing so, it allows us to provide you with more itineraries, route options and alternatives than any other walking tour company!

We come highly recommended by other hikers  – Our tours & service have consistently received 5* reviews from walkers. Check out our reviews on  Google ,  Facebook  &  Tripadvisor .

You can start your tour on any day / date you like  – We don’t confine you to book your tour on specific dates. Instead, you can book your tour to start on any day / date you like during the walking season.

We have itineraries to match your fitness levels  – We provide 3 levels of hiking; ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ & ‘Challenging’, which are designed to suit all types of fitness levels and abilities of hikers.

You can walk at your own pace  – As all our tours are self-guided, you can walk the trails at your own pace as opposed to adhering to a strict schedule, allowing you the freedom to enjoy the beautiful nature & surrounds.

We’re here to support you 24/7  – You can reach us by phone 24/7 if you ever need additional support while on the trail.

We have a very low booking deposit  – Our booking deposit of £100 is one of the lowest, if not the lowest, in the industry.

Guided hiking tours are not available from Hillwalk Tours.

However, don’t be put off doing a self-guided hiking tour. With help from the documentation that you are provided in advance i.e. Route Notes & Directions, Local History & Attractions, Places To Eat / Evening Meal Suggestions etc., you are well prepared, making it perfectly manageable to complete the trail by yourself – and without missing out on any of the local information & history as you walk along the trail!

You can start your hiking tour on any day / date you wish within the walking season. Generally, the walking season for most of our hiking tours takes place between March to October, but there are some exceptions. Please see the individual trail pages for further information on the start and end dates of the walking season for each individual trail.

Our 7-Day tours include 5 days of hiking. The first and last days of all our hiking tours are travel days used to transfer to/from the town where your hike will begin/end. If you would like to hike for 7 days, simply select one of our 9-Day tours.

Our 7-Day tours include 6 nights of accommodation – specifically the first 6 nights on your hiking tour. Your tour finishes on the seventh day when you check out of your last B&B.

A single supplement is an additional charge for walkers booking single accommodation (a room for one person).

This is due to the fact that most accommodation providers price their rooms for double occupancy, meaning that they don’t discount the rooms even if they are only occupied by one person. Furthermore, accommodation providers have outlined that the cost of cleaning the room is the same regardless of how many people are in it, and also the potential cost of giving up a double occupancy (or more) sized room for just one person at a cheaper rate, when they could sell the room to more than one person at the normal rate, is too high.

Therefore, the total tour price for individuals who request a single room is “the price per person plus the single supplement”. This added supplement covers the extra costs associated with accommodating a single person in their own room.

It is not possible to bring your dog on a Hillwalk Tours hiking holiday. Unfortunately, the majority of our accommodation providers do not accept pets of any kind. Furthermore, on many of the trails you will pass through farmlands where livestock are present, and where dogs are not permitted as a result.

Yes, most bus and train tickets can be purchased online in advance of your trip. Specific transport information is available on the tour pages of each hiking region. See the Travel Info section for each tour for more information.

Upon booking you will also receive a step by step public transport guide which will outline some potential public transport options you can take in order to get you from your arrival airport to the start location of your tour.

We can generally arrange for you to park at your first accommodation.

If you are bringing your car, please contact us in advance.

About Luggage Transfers and Accommodation

No, on all our English hiking tours your luggage will be transported to your next accommodation each day as you walk and will arrive before 4pm. Weight limits apply to each piece of luggage, and vary from trail to trail, so please refer to your walking pack documents and communications sent to you in advance of your tour for the maximum weight limit allowed per bag on your selected tour.

You will mostly be staying in traditional English Bed & Breakfasts (B&B’s) / Guesthouses and small Hotels during your hiking trip. B&Bs / Guesthouses are often private lodging houses, where the friendly hosts welcome travellers into their homes. To ensure your comfort, most accommodation you will stay in has been personally checked by a member of the Hillwalk Tours team. At your accommodation, you can expect a warm welcome, en-suite facilities (where available) and a tasty breakfast each morning (but usually no other meals).

If you are planning to walk the Camino Francés pilgrimage trail in Spain, you will mostly be staying in family-owned hotels, boutique pensiones (guesthouses), casas rurales (country cottages) and traditional pazos (manor houses) during your hiking trip.

For more details on the types of accommodation you can expect to find on a Hillwalk Tours walking holiday, read here:  Accommodation on your Walking Tour

Yes, you will receive a list of all accommodation that you will be staying in prior to the departure of your travels. Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a digital PDF copy of your walking pack documents such as your route notes, accommodation details and evening meal suggestions etc. It’s within PDF copy of your walking pack documents that you’ll be able to find what accommodation you will be staying in each night*. You will also be posted a walking pack (either to your home address or the first accommodation on your tour) which will include essential physical items for your tour such as the required maps for the trail and luggage tags.

*If you’d prefer to receive a physical copy of your full walking pack documents too, it’s essential that you reply by email within 48 hours of booking your tour in order to let us know.

In general, we try to book accommodation which is as close to the local amenities as possible. If you are staying in a remote location (where access to local pubs/restaurants is not feasible), the owner of the B&B / Guesthouse or Hotel that you are staying at will ensure that you are well fed.

Please be aware that occasionally, due to the limited supply of accommodation, we may have to make reservations for you at a nearby B&B / Guesthouse or Hotel and arrange transfers to and from the walking trail accordingly. In most locations, this is not a concern but in certain places, availability can be an issue. For more information, just have a chat with the person who is booking your tour.

A ‘twin’ room is a room for two people with two separate beds. A ‘double’ room has just one large bed (for two people).

For more detailed information on the different room type options, please see the following page: Room Types

About Your Walking Pack

Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a digital PDF copy of your walking pack documents such as your route notes, accommodation details and evening meal suggestions etc. You will also be posted a walking pack (either to your home address or first accommodation on your tour) which will include essential physical items for your tour such as the required maps for the trail and luggage tags*.

A breakdown of the documents and items you can expect to find in your walking pack are as follows; – Route notes (prepared by a member the Hillwalk Tours team who has walked every step of your tour) – Detailed hiking map(s) – A high-quality waterproof map-case – Full details of your accommodations and where you will be staying – Our tips on the most interesting attractions to visit along the trail – A look at fascinating local history – A guide to the best places to eat and drink – Safety information, emergency contact details & the country code for walkers

You will find GPS coordinates for each overnight accommodation on your tour in your walking pack, which you will receive prior to departure. Additionally, you will find the GPS coordinates for the trailheads (i.e. the start and end points of your daily hikes) for most of our tours.

GPS tracks for your walking route will also be provided and available to download prior to your tour. Please note that while we are reasonably confident that the tracks are correct and up-to-date, we recommend that they are not used as the only tool for navigation. The most important means for navigation should be the way markers along the trail, our route notes and the maps we provide in the walking pack.

Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a PDF copy of your hiking documents. This PDF document can then be forwarded to as many people within your walking group as you’d like.

For the walking pack which includes physical items such as luggage tags, map-case, maps etc. and which will be posted to you (or awaiting at your first accommodation) – one walking pack will be provided per four people. Therefore, for a group of 1 – 4 people, one walking pack will be sent. For 5 – 8 people, two walking packs will be sent, etc.

The contents of your walking pack (route notes, accommodation information, history, etc.) will all be in English .

About Fitness Levels

We try to provide trail itineraries that cater to a large range of hikers & abilities. To achieve this, we provide 3 different levels of difficulty i.e. Gentle, Moderate, and Challenging itineraries. The difference between each level of difficulty is in the average distance that you will walk each day. It does not differ in relation to the elevation, as the exact trail will still be followed. Therefore, the same elevations (the up’s and down’s) of the trail are usually present regardless of the level of difficulty. Depending on the trail, you may find in your route notes some alternative & easier route options for sections of the trail in order to help you navigate & bypass more difficult parts of the trail, but this isn’t always the case.

It’s important to note that levels of difficulty provided by Hillwalk Tours should only be used as a guide against where your own level of fitness is at, and what you feel you will be able to manage on a daily basis. At the end of the day, it’s you that knows your own level of fitness best. We strongly encourage you to review the distances & walking times for each itinerary that you may be considering, along with any additional notes on the specific tour page, in advance of booking.

The difference between these tours is the distance that you will hike each day:

• Gentle tours cover an average of 12-18 km (8-11 miles) per day
• Moderate tours cover an average of 16-23 km (10-14 miles) per day
• Challenging Tours cover an average of 22-30 km (14-19 miles) per day

For a more detailed breakdown of how we grade our hiking tours, please see the following question: Tour Grading

Yes, we are more than happy to organise an additional night for you at any location along your tour.

Suggestions on interesting places to take a rest day are available on the tour pages of each hiking region. See the ‘Extra Days/Activities’ section of each tour for more information.

About Money, Flights and Insurance

ATMs (cash machines) are available in most larger cities, towns and villages. Remember that your home bank will likely charge you for withdrawing money overseas. Additionally, if you have a debit card, you can often get cash through the ‘cashback’ system at some shops and pubs when you make a purchase with the card (ask for ‘cashback’).

Credit and debit cards can now be used for payment almost everywhere. However, there are still some smaller businesses that may only accept cash, such as smaller shops, B&Bs (for packed lunches) or taxis (for transfers to or from restaurants). We therefore recommend that you carry some cash (local currency) with you as a back-up.

Contactless card payments are also increasingly accepted in many places (please check daily card limits in advance of use).

The currency used in the United Kingdom (i.e. England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) is Pound Sterling (£). Therefore, if you are taking any hiking tour in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you will need Pound Sterling.

Flights and transport to the start and from the end of your hiking tour are not included on our tours. However, we do provide a detailed step-by-step guide of suggested options on how you can make it to the start location of your hike by public transport from numerous major airports. In addition, for further travel information, see the ‘Travel Info’ section on the individual tour page for each trail.

Although travel insurance is not required to take a hiking holiday, we strongly encourage you to take out adequate insurance cover prior to travel.

Unfortunately 3rd party travel insurance is not available through Hillwalk Tours, and must be booked separately.

Which England Hiking Tour Should You Choose?

Choosing the right hiking tour can be tricky. It’s important to consider the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. To make your decision easier, we have drawn up a menu of Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hiking tours.

Before we explain the difference between the various grades, it is important to note that each hiking tour within a specific region follows the same official hiking trail. But to make these walking trails more accessible to all walkers, we have shortened the average daily hike between accommodations for the gentle and moderate tours.

Below is a general overview of each tour grading level. Note that the figures for ‘Average Daily Hike’ and ‘Hiking Time’ may vary between regions. Poor weather conditions can affect the average hiking time which is based on a person of normal fitness walking at a moderate speed of around 4km/h (2.5 mph). The hiking time takes into account the terrain covered but not the time required for lunch stops, photos, etc. For more details on daily distances, the level of ascent and the terrain the trail crosses; refer to the itinerary page of each individual tour.

1. Browse through our website to find your preferred hiking trail.

2. Choose the type of hiking tour you want to take: ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ or ‘Challenging’.

3. Next, identify the number of days you want to spend on your hiking tour.

4. Click the ‘Make a Booking’ button on the top right of our webpage.

5. Finally, fill out our booking form and make a €100 deposit per person.

Deposits and Final Payments can be made using:

1. Credit Card – through Stripe, for Sterling Payments

Stripe is a quick and secure way to accept credit card and debit card payments online. Stripe handles millions of transactions every year for businesses around the world and is now the preferred payment partner for many major companies.

2. Bank Transfer – Instructions & account details on how to make a bank transfer payment can be found on our booking form and also within the final payment email. Alternatively, you can contact us directly for the required account details.

1. If you paid by credit card or debit card, you will receive an e-mail within 24 hours verifying receipt of your booking form and deposit payment.

In this email, you will be asked to confirm your tour details. If you paid by bank transfer, payment will take a few days to reach us. Therefore you will receive your email confirmation and request to confirm your tour details shortly after we have assigned the bank payment to your booking form. In this case, you may receive an automatic email outlining that a booking form has been received, but no deposit has been received – you can disregard this email.

2. Once your confirmation is received that all details on your booking form are correct, we will begin making the arrangements for your tour. Therefore, the sooner you send us this confirmation, the sooner we can start to book your tour.

3. After all the arrangements for your tour have been confirmed (this process can normally takes between five to ten working days) you will be sent a breakdown of the balance outstanding for your tour and a due date for payment.

4. Once your final payment has been received, we will send you an e-mail confirming receipt.

5. PDF soft copies of your walking pack will then be sent to you by email which will include all your tour details, and physical items required for your tour (e.g. maps, luggage tags etc.) will be posted to your home address, or to the first accommodation on your tour where it will be waiting for you on arrival. Alternatively, if you have requested that your full walking pack be printed, this will also be either sent to your home address or to your first accommodation on the tour where it will be waiting for you on arrival.

6. You will receive an automated email from us, one week in advance of your tour start date, providing you with some additional information to help with your preparation before travel.

7. During your tour, if you have any issues, you can reach us 24/7 on our emergency contact number which is found in your walking pack.

8. After your tour has finished, we will send you a feedback form in relation to your tour and how it all went. We place a huge importance on our customers feedback and experience of our tours, so when you have some free time, we strongly encourage you to fill out this feedback form as it helps us to continue to provide a high quality service and to further improve where necessary.

9. Lastly, if you would like to tell others about your experience with Hillwalk Tours, you can leave an online review on our Google , Facebook or Tripadvisor pages.

ESSENTIALS:

Please note: A detailed ‘Recommended Equipment L ist’ will be included in your walking pack

◻ WATERPROOF JACKET AND OVER-TROUSERS  – You never know when you will need protection from wind and rain – so prepare for unpredictable weather by packing a waterproof, breathable jacket and over-trousers. You may not need them, but you will be happy to have them if you do.

◻ BASE LAYER  – This is what you wear against your skin and the best options are breathable and wicking fabrics instead of cotton. They will move moisture away from the skin so that you feel more comfortable when you are walking.

◻ FLEECE – It keeps you warm in the cooler months and on top of the hills, and will allow you to shed layers when you are working hard in the summer.

◻ LIGHT AND COMFORTABLE TROUSERS – Make sure you choose trousers that are stretchy or allow enough space to move your legs freely.  Jeans / Denims are not suitable for hill walking and dry very slowly once they get wet.

◻ WICKING SOCKS – Choose non-cotton socks that fit well and will move moisture away from your feet to stop them feeling sweaty. Some people wear two pairs: a sock liner against the skin and wool or wool-blend socks over that. This will help to reduce the likelihood of blisters and ‘hot spots’. Our tip: Apply a little Vaseline or a similar anti-blister ointment each morning and then put on your socks, this reduces rubbing and helps to prevent blisters.

◻ FOOTWEAR – We recommend that you bring comfortable, waterproof, lightweight shoes or boots, that provide good ankle support and offer good grip on rock, grass and mud. Remember that the trails in many of our regions can become quite wet and muddy after periods of rain. Our tip: If you buy new boots for your holiday make sure to try them out on one or two longer walks before your tour!

For the South Downs Way we recommend footwear with good soles for the sections of exposed flint stones.

House Shoes: Some B&Bs don’t allow boots or shoes in the house, so you may wish to bring some ‘house shoes’ i.e., slippers, flip-flops, etc.

◻ GAITERS – By covering your upper boot and lower leg these help to keep your feet and trousers dry in wet grass and boggy terrain. We recommended you bring gaiters especially for our tours along the western coast of Ireland and the Cotswold Way, but they are a good thing to have on your feet wherever the ground gets especially wet.

◻ BACKPACK / RUCKSACK (with Waterproof Cover or liner) – To store all your essentials and keep them dry – including extra layers of clothing, your waterproofs, first aid kit, camera and your lunch, snacks and drinks. Don’t forget how important it is to stay hydrated and bring at least 1 – 2 litres of water per person each day, depending on the weather! Also, make sure to bring some emergency snacks, to help keep your energy up!

◻ WARM HAT & GLOVES – Essential, even in summer, at higher altitudes and on exposed places.

◻ CASH – Bring enough for the duration of your tour/hike as ATM/cash machine & credit card services may be limited (see your Welcome Letter for more details) .

◻ FIRST AID KIT – It’s a good idea to have a small, basic first aid kit to deal with little injuries such as sprains, scrapes, cuts and blisters. Good things to bring are plasters & wound dressings, sterile cleansing wipes, pain killers, tweezers (for splinters & ticks), bandages and, zinc oxide tape.

◻ WHISTLE – This standard piece of hiking equipment is for the very unlikely event you need to signal for help (the standard signal is three long blasts).

◻ HIGH VISIBILITY VESTS & TORCH – Many trails, particularly in Ireland, have sections that follow roads. For those hikes you may wish to bring a High Visibility Vest which will increase your visibility, especially in bad weather or if it gets dark when your walk takes longer than expected. A torch can help on off-road sections.

◻ PLUG ADAPTER (CONVERTER) – 3-square pin plugs are used in Ireland and the UK – voltage is 230V.

◻ MOBILE PHONE – We strongly recommend that you bring or purchase a mobile/cell phone. It will allow you to contact your accommodation and transfer providers from the trail and call for help in an emergency.

• Visitors from other European Countries: As it stands many European network operators also don’t charge for roaming in the UK (Scotland, England, Wales & Northern Ireland), but please check this with your operator before you travel.
• Visitors from the United States, Canada and elsewhere: If your phone is unlocked and GSM/UMTS compatible, you can also purchase a UK SIM card from a variety of mobile phone stores and supermarkets and use it in your own phone. Alternatively, you can purchase a cheap pre-pay phone when you arrive. It is often possible to buy a very basic pre-pay phone for as little as £15. You can then top-up with vouchers or a credit/debit card. If you phone supports digital eSIM cards, you may be able to purchase a separate plan from your phone network provider for use abroad or a prepaid plan from local network provider in your destination country.
• To make international calls in Europe you must dial 00 as the international access code (and not 011 as in the US or Canada). If you are dialling from a cell phone, enter + instead of 00, or simply hold down the 0.
• Make sure your phone is fully charged before you start your walk. Please note that you might not always have a phone signal on the trail but, in general, the level of coverage is quite good.
• If you have a smartphone, we recommend you have a mapping app like Google Maps installed and your location/GPS service turned on. This will let us better help you should you need assistance while on the trail by identifying your location.

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS:

◻ SUN CREAM, SUNGLASSES AND SUNHAT  (April to Sept) – Let’s hope you’ll need those!

◻ MIDGE/INSECT REPELLENT & MIDGE NET (May to September only) – can be useful for all regions.

◻ CAMERA  – Vital for capturing photos of the stunning scenery along your trip, which help you brag to your friends about your holiday.

◻ COMPASS – A compass (and the ability to use it) is a good idea but not a requirement for our English tours.

◻ WALKING POLES  – Assist forward movement, reduce impact on your knees, and help with balance in difficult terrain. A pair is best but many hikers also just use one.

◻ EARPLUGS  – We know how important it is to get a good night’s rest. However, as there may be other guests in the guesthouse with different plans for their night, we recommend bringing a pair of earplugs to ensure sweet dreams!

Your room will be ready each day from 4pm at the latest and sometimes sooner.

Check-in times to your accommodation is generally not before 4pm. You may be able to check-in a bit earlier (e.g. around 3pm), but this is not guaranteed. To request an earlier check-in time, please contact your accommodation host in advance to discuss.

If you expect to arrive later than 6pm to your accommodation, please inform you accommodation hosts in advance (in particular B&B’s & Guesthouses). Reasons for this can be that your flight is delayed, that you are still on the trail or because you might have stopped for food or a drink before check-in. By letting them know in advance, it allows the hosts to plan accordingly and to also put their minds at ease that you are OK.

Check-out time is usually 10am , but it can vary, therefore it’s often best to discuss check-out times with your accommodation hosts directly.

Your luggage will arrive by 4pm each day

A tasty breakfast is important to prepare you for the day of hiking & adventure ahead. At your accommodation you can find either, a hot breakfast, a continental breakfast, or perhaps even both!

In some cases, where we have no other option but to book you into accommodation where no breakfast is served, we will deduct the cost of the breakfast from your tour price which can instead be used to purchase breakfast in a nearby café / restaurant.

Most accommodation hosts will always try and cater for dietary requirements as best they can, provided they are notified in advance. Therefore, if you do have any dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, vegetarian, etc.) please let us know in the “Any Dietary Requirements/Allergies?” field on our booking form when booking.

Please note, not all businesses may readily accommodate dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, etc., especially in more remote and rural areas. If you require a specific diet, we recommend you enquire in advance or talk to your hosts. You may also find it useful to download an app such as Vanilla Bean or Happy Cow , both available on Android and iOS, to help you find a venue which meets your needs.

In your Route Notes, we list places where you should expect to find at least one café, pub, shop or restaurant along each day’s hike. However, opening times can change, some places may only open in afternoon, and businesses can close unexpectedly. We therefore recommend you also check with your accommodation hosts where you can get lunch the next day, either along the route or at the start of the hike.

If it is unlikely that you will be able to purchase food or drink during the day, you may wish to purchase a packed lunch before you start in the morning, especially if it is a long hike. If there are no shops nearby, your host will be able to provide a packed lunch at a reasonable price on request.

You can generally buy an evening meal in one of the local restaurants, cafes or pubs close to your accommodation. If there aren’t any restaurants/cafes/pubs in the local area, evening meals can be obtained from your host.

The majority of accommodation hosts will be able to assist you in drying your clothes and boots.

1 kilometre = 0.62 mile 1 mile = 1.61 kilometres

Many of the English hiking trails can pass through private farmland. This means that farmers can have their livestock (such as cattle, sheep, goats etc.) grazing in the same fields that you walk through. Some livestock may look intimidating. However, don’t worry, you will find these animals are actually quite timid. Continue walking in a normal fashion (do not run) and you should have no problems. In addition, take note of any signs which the farmer may have put up.

You can find more information on how to deal with animals on your hike in the Safety Information & Country Code document you find in your walking pack.

Most areas have mobile / cell phone reception, even while you are hiking. However, you may pass through some remote areas where reception will be either limited or unavailable entirely.

It is important to note that, if you are ever in an emergency, mobile/cell phones can still contact the emergency service numbers even without mobile/cell phone reception.

Yes, in most accommodation Wi-Fi is available, however it’s not guaranteed. In addition, due to the remote locations of some accommodations, the Wi-Fi quality may not always be the best.

Yes, in general most routes are very clearly way-marked with a marker directly before and after each turn. If you are ever in doubt, you can also check the Hillwalk Tours route notes or maps provided in your walking pack.

Yes, it is possible that your tour may include taxi transfers to bring you to and from the trail. The reason for this is;

•  Due to limited accommodation options in some locations on your tour, we may need to book you into an accommodation which will require transfers to/from your hike start/end point.
•  Due to limited accommodation options or no availability in accommodation, we may need to book you into the same accommodation for more than one night to cover multiple locations, in which case taxi transfers will be required to bring you to and from the trail.
•  Due to minimum night stay requirements in accommodations on certain trails, we sometimes have no other option but for you to stay multiple nights in the same location and use transfers to get you to and from the trail.

The cost of these taxi transfers bringing you to and from the trail is covered in the tour price, and they will not affect your tour itinerary i.e. you will still walk the exact route as listed.

In England, famous for its rain and the lush green of its countryside, the Gulf Stream ensures mild, maritime influenced weather. The warmest months are July and August with temperature averages between 16 and 21°C. Rain falls throughout the year, and the weather in England can sometimes change very quickly. Average annual rainfall in the north is more than 1,600mm, but central and southern England receive an average of less than 800mm. April, May and June are the driest months.

Ultimate Guide to Hiking the South West Coast Path (Cornish Coastal Path)

The South West Coast Path is an official long-distance National Trail in the UK. This article focuses on hiking the popular Cornwall Coast Path section of the trail, which offers some of the best coastal hiking in Europe.

7 things to do in Cornwall

Discover one of the most beautiful regions in England! Between Padstow and Penzance, the coastline is full of nature reserves, majestic...

Why hiking in Cornwall is worth it

Cornwall is a place of longing for many. The region in the south-west of England has a lot to offer for...

Cornwall Coastal Path – 7 Trail Highlights

The Cornwall Coastal Path is part of the legendary  South West Coast Path. At over a thousand kilometers (630 miles), this is...

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YOU'LL LOVE WALKING THROUGH CORNWALL

Cornwall – a romantic county on England’s rugged southwestern tip  – has much to offer the adventurous hiker. It is home to the iconic South West Coast Path, England’s longest waymarked long-distance trail (1015km), and the lesser-known but no less compelling routes of The Saints’ Way and Saint Michael’s Way.

You will be in awe of a landscape and its wildlife that has long inspired artists and writers alike – think Doc Martin, Poldark, Jamaica Inn, The Wind in the Willows.

Our hiking itineraries celebrate a connection to nature – a belief embraced for centuries by Celtic Saints and Cornish locals. The trails meander along s andy beaches , towering cliffs , sheltered estuaries and over rolling green hill s, and coastal valleys. 

Cornwall is rich in history, geology, archaeology and pubology. After a long day’s hike navigating your way past Bronze Age Standing Stones, centuries-old churches and crumbling tin mining engine houses, there are countless ‘Ship Inns’ and ‘Kings Arms’ where you can grab a hearty feed. 

The RAW Travel Difference

COSY INNS & COUNTRY COTTAGES

Walking Cornwall with us means staying in lovely English guesthouses and historic pubs that provide a warm welcome and good comfort at the end of your walking day. The accommodation is an enjoyable part of this trip and we have chosen places with quintessential English character.

PACK-FREE & ON-TRAIL NAVIGATION

You will have daily luggage transfers so you can walk with just a daypack. Our proprietary app for navigation shows you where you are on the trail in real-time and includes emergency contacts. This leaves you free to focus on enjoying your walk, knowing your luggage will be waiting for you each night and you can walk safely and confidently.

FLEXIBLE TRIPS TAILORED TO YOU

We offer the flexibility to tailor make an itinerary to suit you. Talk to our Destination Specialist to see how we can customise your walking adventure.

WE GET YOU READY TO WALK

We offer expert first-hand advice and comprehensive training resources. Our dedicated team of specialists has in-depth knowledge about all our walks and are ready to answer all your questions.

View Our Walks

A Cornish Camino – Cornwall

• Travel the path of Saints and pilgrims along the Cornish coastline 
• Wander along cobbled streets past pretty whitewashed cottages 
• Follow the path through tranquil woods and country lanes 
• Walk the ancient cobbled causeway to St Michael’s Mount

South West Coast Path: Padstow to St Ives – Cornwall

• Enjoy warm Cornish hospitality and quality B&B accommodation
• Savour an area of rich and diverse history and natural beauty
• Relish impressive coastal views towering cliffs and wild seas
• Explore St Ives’ laneway-filled artsy galleries and museums

South West Coast Path: Padstow to Falmouth – Cornwall

• Be charmed by Padstow’s village and delightful fishing harbour
• Discover the history of the local tin mining industry 
• Indulge in home-made ice-cream and Cornish cream teas
• Relish spectacular coastal views, towering cliffs and wild seas

South West Coast Path: St Ives to Falmouth – Cornwall

• Discover aquamarine smugglers coves and wind-blown beaches
• Embrace the solitude and beauty of the wild remote landscape
• Be charmed by delightful fishing villages and colourful harbours
• Experience warm hospitality and quality B&B accommodation

South West Coast Path: St Ives to Penzance – Cornwall

• Walk the ancient narrow causeway to mystical St Michael’s Mount
• Experience the dramatic and isolated Cornish coastline
• Savour craggy landscapes, hidden coves and stunning views 
• Explore ‘Poldark’ country and the heart of Cornish tin mining

Cornwall Route Map

Padstow is a working port, with fisherman providing fresh seafood to the local restaurants which have become a major drawcard of the town. Padstow is also home to the infamous ‘Doom Bar’, a sandbar at the mouth of the Camel Estuary that has caused over 600 shipwrecks, supposedly the result of a mermaid’s curse.

CLICK ON A PIN TO REVEAL INFORMATION ABOUT THAT LOCATION

Porthcothan.

Porthcothan Bay is one of the gems of the north Cornwall coast. Located part way between the holiday towns of Newquay and Padstow, this tiny seaside village has plenty of dramatic scenery to impress walkers.

The seaside town of Newquay is bordered by several miles of golden beaches and is the surf capital of Britain. There’s plenty of eateries located all over the town, serving everything from Cornish pasties to fish and chips, international cuisine and more.

Perranporth

Perranporth is a bustling little seaside resort with a spectacular beach. It was part of Cornwall’s mining heartland and it is this rich history which inspired resident writer Winston Graham, the Poldark author.

Portreath is a small resort with a very narrow harbour. It was once a busy port, importing coal and exporting copper, but now it only shelters the occasional fishing boat. The original loading ramp can still be seen in the village.

Hayle is renowned for its industrial heritage that is evident in its historic architecture and landmarks like Harvey’s Foundry. The estuary provides opportunities for birdwatching and is a designated Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reserve. The quaint town centre has shops, pubs and restaurants.

St Ives has an excellent choice of beaches, stunning views, great surf, a wide range of places to eat, and some of the finest art galleries in the UK. Tate St Ives, overlooking Porthmeor Beach, is home to exhibitions of work by contemporary artists and locals. With the benefit of the mildest climate in the UK, along with waving palm trees and translucent waters, there is a definite tropical feel to the Porthminster Beach.

The the tiny hamlet of Zennor lies above the high, rocky cliffs of the coast and the rugged, boulder-strewn, granite hills and moors. Be sure to visit the 12th-century church – the roofing style is unique to this area; it resembles the timbers of an upturned boat.

As you walk, you’ll pass the Pendeen Watch Lighthouse before turning inland to the village of Pendeen itself, a former mining community (the last mine closed in 1991).

Sennen Cove

Sennen Cove is a renowned surf spot and arguably one of Britain’s best beaches. The small town here hosts a few pubs and eateries and is a popular spot on a summer’s day.

As you arrive at Porthcurno, you will pass the amazing clifftop amphitheatre of the Minack Theatre, hewn into the rock of the cliffside – it is truly one of the most unique settings for a theatre anywhere in the world. There are regular performances throughout the months of May to September. The village is tucked away in the valley to the right where you’ll find your accommodation.

Penzance is a lively town that is worth some exploration. From here you can walk to Marazion and spend some time exploring St Michael’s Mount. The Mount has a beautiful little harbour and houses, with the towering castle and church above it, now all managed by the National Trust and the St Aubyn family who still reside in the castle.

Porthleven is all about the harbour, from where fishmongers emerge with their day’s catch of crab, mackerel and lobster. There are good eateries, pubs and delis. The town is home to an ever-growing colony of art galleries and craft shops promoting works by local artists.

The seaside village of Mullion is on the impressive Lizard Peninsula, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town is one of the most picturesque villages in Cornwall and is home to an assortment of shops, art galleries, pubs and tearooms in traditional, whitewashed buildings.

Kynance Cove

Kynance Cove is one of the world’s most spectacular beaches. The turquoise seas meet a white sandy beach interspersed with colourful serpentine rock stacks. At low tide, caves and islands are yours to explore, but don’t get cut off by the tide!  

Lizard Town, also known as Lizard Village and The Lizard, is the closest settlement to Lizard Point, the most southerly point in Britain. While not particularly charming architecturally, it has a real community atmosphere and an excellent pasty shop.

Coverack is an endearing seaside village with a crescent-shaped beach, sparkling aquamarine waters and colourful fishing boats. Tucked away in a sheltered bay on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula, this archetypal Cornish village with its little old cottages, friendly locals and laid-back vibe is one of the county’s favourite holiday destinations.

The sleepy village of Helford was once an important port; the Helford River was busy with trade ships stocked with rum, lace and tobacco.

Falmouth is one of the South West’s leading cultural and festival destinations. On arriving in town, you will discover that there is much to see. Take in superb views from Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII in the 16 th -century, in defence against the threat of invasion from Spain and France, or perhaps take a cruise up the River Fal to Truro or  Frenchman’s Creek, which inspired author Daphne du Maurier and her novel of the same name.

Exclusive Guide

Get Inspired

Cornwall – a romantic county on England’s rugged southwestern tip – has much to offer the adventurous hiker. This place is home to the iconic South West Coast Path, England’s longest waymarked trail, and the lesser-known but no less compelling routes of The Saints Way and Saint Michael’s Way. Find out everything you need to know in our free destination guide.

Download Now

Not quite what you're after?

Tailor-made trips

If you don’t see the exact trip you’re looking for then consider a customised trip, individually tailored to your ideal walking distances and timeframes. Have a look at our tailor-made trips page on the link below and drop us a line:

Customise this trip

• Walker's Area

Walk The Trail

• Send us an email Click Here
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• Walking in Southern England

Self Guided Walking Holidays in Cornwall

Almost completely surrounded by the sea, with 300 miles of coastal foot path, cornwall is one of the most popular walking destinations in england. you will encounter mile after mile of spectacular views, whether on the rugged and wild north coast cliffs overlooking the raging atlantic seas or along the secluded coves and tree-clad creeks dotted amongst the county’s southern shores, which were once the haunt of cornish smugglers and pirates. inland walks provide you with a chance to walk in the footprints of our forefathers, by taking pilgrimage trails or routes which avoided sea journeys around the treacherous headlands. cornwall is an experience……not just a holiday..

Click on an image below for more information

Hidden Coves, Fishing Villages, and hiking the cornish coast

Hiking in cornwall.

From $6,795

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Set on the western edge of Great Britain, Cornwall is a legendary cultural haven surrounded by the sea and imbued with tales of mermaids, pixies, and ghostly galleons. We'll hike the most spectacular sections of the Cornish Coastal Path on this adventure, with overnights in three of Cornwall's atmospheric coastal villages: the fishing port of Padstow, the market town of Penzance, and Fowey, with its smugglers' pubs. We'll ramble along towering cliffs and sandy beaches, explore fascinating sites including Tintagel, mythical home of King Arthur and his knights, and soak up local lore. Our adventure also takes full advantage of the flourishing dining scene, including a meal at Rick Stein's acclaimed The Seafood Restaurant—expect delightful fresh seafood with a Cornish twist.

Arrive: Bodmin, England

Depart: Bodmin, England

• Hike the most spectacular coasts of Cornwall, including the renowned headlands of Land's End
• Explore fishing villages, including Port Isaac, where BBC's popular Doc Martin was filmed
• Dine at the restaurant of celebrated chef Rick Stein
• Learn about Cornwall's Celtic heritage and legends of King Arthur
• Three- or four-night stay at each hotel—less packing and unpacking!

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

$600 due at time of reservation 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader
• Accommodations in seaside hotels
• All meals included except 2 lunches and 4 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

St. Petroc's Hotel

Padstow, England

Days 1-3 (3 nights)

Alternate Accomodation: The Seafood Restaurant

Artist Residence Penzance

Penzance, England

Days 4-7 (4 nights)

The Fowey Hotel

Fowey, England

Days 8-10 (3 nights)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Richard Bell

Tim Burford

What the Trip is Like

• 700 feet gain/loss
• Day 3: 10.5 miles, 6.5 hours, and 700 feet gain/loss

Client Testimonials

"What an incredible way to see an interesting part of the world. I think this trip is a star of the Wilderness Travel line up."

Oakland, CA

"One of our best trips—wonderful guides, good group, and amazing country."

Fernandina Beach, FL

"It was delightful, and we especially enjoyed the six cultural experiences as a nice addition to the walking."

Cockeysville, MD

"This trip was AWESOME! Beautiful hikes, gorgeous scenery, amazing seaside towns, great cuisine, fabulous lodging (esp. in Padstow), very well crafted itinerary, with an epic lead guide in Richard Bell, whose local knowledge and personal touches were all over everything. Everybody LOVED having 3 nights in each location. The pace was perfect."

Santa Monica, CA

"The trip and the rest of the group were fantastic. Our guides Richard and Karen make a wonderful team, providing humor, knowledge of history and folklore, fauna, and just happy company. This was my first Wilderness Travel trip and I would highly recommend this outfit to anyone. Thank you for all the help in getting me there with the flurry of emails asking many questions. My office contact Brandi was excellent in all areas, and in her follow thru."

Katharine R.

South Dartmouth, MA

"The itinerary was near perfection. The hikes, the scenery, and the food were all sublime. All three of the hotels were superb too."

"This was just the right combination of hiking, cultural, and historic experiences and foodie delights. Staying three nights in every hotel makes the trip far more relaxed (no constant packing and unpacking) than most itineraries."

"A great trip—interesting and varied hiking plus good food, real cultural activities, and good hotels. A plus that we stayed three nights in each hotel so packing and unpacking were minimized."

Boulder, CO

"The trip was outstanding. We had a LOT of hiking combined with cultural experiences to really give us a good appreciation of Cornwall today and its history. The parts of the South West Coast Path that we hiked were stunning. We LOVED the guided tours of Tintagel, the Levant tin mine, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, along with our evening performance at the Minack Theater. We particularly liked staying in one hotel for three nights before moving on."

Newton Upper Falls, MA

"Loved this trip! It was the perfect combination of excellent/friendly guides, hiking, scenery, regional food, and cultural sights."

"This was the trip of a lifetime for me. I loved walking along the cliffs—I can't even name a favorite day or event because I loved it all."

Chicago, IL

"This was a well designed and organized trip with super-great trip leaders and beautiful scenic coastal trails."

St Simons Island, GA

"This was a wonderful trip! The countryside was magnificent, the walks well planned, and things ran smoothly. Richard's passion for good food made meals a special treat, and Karen's encyclopedic knowledge of plants and history added to each walk. This was my first Wilderness Travel walk. I loved it and will be back."

New York, NY

"The overall experience was once in a lifetime and some of the most spectacular scenery I have ever seen!"

Atlanta, GA

"A phenomenal trip! And we liked being in the hotels for 3, 4, and 3 nights each. That was an added bonus! It was very smooth and a very nice blend of walks and cultural."

Westminster, CO

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Submit the form below to download itinerary

Trip Download Itin

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

Cornwall Tour

Cornwall & the cotswolds tour (5-day).

Join us on this friendly small-group tour to Cornwall & The Cotswolds, where we’ll see some of Britain’s most beautiful coastline and most charming villages. This five-day tour to Cornwall is a journey of spectacular scenery, narrow country lanes, quaint locations & unique Celtic history…

• Fully explore the best of Cornwall in five days
• Small-groups are guaranteed; tours have up to 16 travellers
• Options to leave the tour in Bath or at Heathrow Airport
• Visit iconic Cornwall destinations like St Ives & Land’s End and explore Port Isaac, filming location for hit TV series Doc Martin
• See famous destinations Stonehenge & Bath, plus seek ‘hidden gems’ in two of England’s most scenic areas; Cornwall & the Cotswolds
• Find the best places to sample authentic local foods like Fish & Chips, Devonshire Cream Teas and Cornish Pasties
• Optional walking tour in Port Isaac with a Doc Martin extra
• Click FAQs (below) for all the key questions about the Cornwall Tour
• Book with Deposit  – click ‘BOOK NOW’ (below) to see dates & prices

How do I see available dates and prices?

Click the green ‘BOOK NOW’ button (above right). Select your date from the tour calendar and follow the simple steps.

Do I pay a deposit when I book?

Yes! Bookings are made with a £200 deposit payment. The remaining balance can be paid any time, but is due by 50-days prior to the departure date. For the cancellation policy, see our ‘Terms’ page.

Where does the tour start & finish?

The tour starts & ends at the Holiday Inn, Kensington High Street. Please arrive to check-in by 8.15am. On the last day you’ll return to London by approximately 18.00.

Can I end the tour in Bath or at Heathrow Airport?

Yes, just let us know before the tour. The Heathrow Airport drop-off is (traffic permitting) on Bath Road, near Terminals 2-3.

What is included in the price?

All prices include transportation in our comfortable minibuses, four-nights accommodation and a friendly Driver-Guide.

Is accommodation included?

Yes, four-nights accommodation is included in the price; choose either ‘4* Hotels’ or ‘B&B’ which includes local Bed & Breakfasts and traditional Inns. All rooms are en-suite & include breakfast.

Are attractions included?

No, tickets to attractions are not included. Most can be purchased during the tour, however, for attractions that require advanced booking, we’ll be in touch via e-mail ahead of the trip.

What is the luggage allowance?

Each traveller may bring one suitcase (weighing up to 15kg) and a carry-on. Items that exceed the weight limit won’t be accepted. Excess luggage can be stored at the Holiday Inn for £3 per item per day.

How many people are there on a tour?

Small-groups are guaranteed, with a maximum of 16 travellers!

What if I have a question but the answer isn’t here?

Take a look at our full FAQs page and you may find your answer there. If not, please get in touch at [email protected].

This tour includes:

Departure Details

Departs every Monday

Holiday Inn

Kensington High St

Check-in at 8.15am

(Depart by 8.30am)

Tour Itinerary

Stonehenge, Salisbury & the Jurassic Coast

Our tour of Cornwall & the Cotswolds begins by departing London and travelling west towards the iconic pre-historic monument of Stonehenge ; the first stop of our tour. This is the world’s most famous stone circle, thought to be 4,500 years old, yet we still don’t understand its true meaning…

Our tour of Cornwall & the Cotswolds begins by departing London and travelling west towards the iconic pre-historic monument of Stonehenge ; the first stop of our tour. This is the world’s most famous stone circle, thought to be 4,500 years old, yet we still don’t understand its true meaning. Many theories exist, suggesting the stones could have been a solar calendar, burial site or perhaps a place of worship. We’ll attempt to unravel the mysteries of the stones and then make the short journey to the medieval city of Salisbury . The city’s cathedral is visible for miles around and possesses the tallest spire in the UK. It’s also home to one of only four surviving copies of the world’s oldest constitutional document: the Magna Carta. Whilst in Salisbury we’ll have time to visit the cathedral, wander the city’s charming streets and have some lunch. This afternoon we will travel to the south coast and the county of Dorset, where we’ll visit the charming seaside town of  Lyme Regis . The town is situated on the Jurassic coast; a world-renowned part of England’s coastline that has a geological history dating back 185-million years. This location is the setting for Jane Austens’  Persuasion and John Fowles’ The French Lieutenant’s Woman and is our first chance to take a stroll along the sea-front. Then it will be time for us to continue west, to the Roman city of Exeter, which is where we will spend the first night of our tour.

NIGHT ONE: Exeter

Dartmoor, Plymouth, Polperro & Charlestown

This morning we’ll leave Exeter, but it won’t be long before we are ascending into the higher grounds of  Dartmoor National Park ; known for its Sherlock Holmes connection and home to the legendary Dartmoor Beast. As we travel we’ll take in the beautiful landscape…

This morning we’ll leave Exeter, but it won’t be long before we are ascending into the higher grounds of  Dartmoor National Park ; known for its Sherlock Holmes connection and home to the legendary Dartmoor Beast. As we travel we’ll absorb the beautiful landscape, negotiate narrow country lanes and perhaps spot a native Dartmoor Pony. Next we’ll travel to the port town of Plymouth on Devon’s south coast, where we’ll have lunch. It was from here that the Pilgrim Fathers departed for the New World; now recognised as the United States of America. Take time to explore Plymouth’s harbour, the historic Barbican area and find the ‘Mayflower Steps’. This afternoon it’s time to ‘cross the border’ and enter Cornwall; a county with a unique culture based on its Celtic heritage. Here they have their own language, their own flag, and of course their Cornish pasties! Our first stop in Cornwall will be the quaint fishing village of Polperro . Follow the narrow streets into the harbour to find an active fishing community where smuggling once thrived. A short trip along the coast will bring us to our next stop,  Charlestown , known popularly as a filming location in the TV series  Poldark . The village centres on its port and has remained largely unchanged since the late 18th century. Now its time to travel to Falmouth; our base in Cornwall and where we will spend the next two nights.

NIGHT TWO: Falmouth

St Michaels Mount, Minack Theatre, St Ives & Lands End

Today our journey will take us to some of the most beautiful and isolated parts of Cornwall’s coastline. We will begin by travelling to see the famous island of  St Michael’s Mount . This iconic location has been home to a monastery since at least the 8th century…

Today our journey will take us to some of the most beautiful and isolated parts of Cornwall’s coastline. We will begin by travelling to see the famous island of  St Michael’s Mount . This iconic location has been home to a monastery since at least the 8th century. Next, beware of ‘pirates’ as we negotiate the town of Penzance and make our way to the  Minack Theatre . This place is an inspiring story of dedication and English eccentricity, the Minack Theatre is in a spectacular location that would rival any theatre in the world. From here we continue west, to the westernmost place in Britain and our next stop;  Land’s End . Here we can gaze out over the Atlantic and on a clear day we’ll be able to see the Isles of Scilly. Next up is  St Ives, one of Britain’s most popular seaside towns. This charming setting was once a centre of Cornwall’s fishing industry, but is now known more as a destination for artists. Stroll along the cobbled lanes, pop into an art shop, take a walk along the front of one of the beaches and have some lunch. Now it’s time to travel back to  Falmouth where you’ll have the rest of the afternoon to explore this historic harbour town. Visit the historic Pendennis Castle, discover Falmouth’s renowned National Marimitime Museum or perhaps spend time in a traditional local pub. Tonight is our second night in Falmouth.

NIGHT THREE: Falmouth

Port Isaac & Tintagel

This morning it’s time to leave Falmouth, but our Cornish adventure isn’t over yet. We begin by travelling to Cornwall’s north coast, and we’ll reach the charming fishing village of Port Isaac . For some the village may be more familiar by its fictional name ‘Portwenn’…

This morning it’s time to leave Falmouth, but our Cornish adventure isn’t over yet. We begin by travelling to Cornwall’s north coast, and we’ll reach the charming fishing village of Port Isaac . For some the village may be more familiar by its fictional name ‘Portwenn’; as this is the main filming location in the hit TV series  Doc Martin . Starring Martin Clunes, the series follows the life of Doc Martin, a local Doctor whose unique personality and blunt nature leads to a clash of cultures with locals that has humorous results. We’ll have plenty of time in Port Isaac to explore the village, have some lunch and you may wish to join an optional walking tour with a local village guide. This afternoon we’ll continue further north along the coast to Tintagel ; once home to an ancient castle which legend says was the birthplace of  King Arthur . The island on which the castle would have stood is shrouded in history, and the views of the surrounding coastline are spectacular. After this we will travel back to Exeter where there’ll be time to explore the historic city centre, visit the cathedral or stroll along the river Exe. We’ll spend the final night of the tour in Exeter.

NIGHT FOUR: Exeter

Bath & the Cotswolds

The final day of our tour to Cornwall & the Cotswolds begins by departing Exeter and visiting possibly the most beautiful city in Britain; Bath . Founded by the Romans as a spa town, the legend of the city suggests that the water here possesses healing powers…

The final day of our tour to Cornwall & the Cotswolds begins by departing Exeter and visiting possibly the most beautiful city in Britain; Bath . Founded by the Romans as a spa town, the legend of the city suggests that the water here possesses healing powers. Whilst here be sure to visit the Roman Baths and take in some of the beautiful regency architecture like the Royal Crescent and the Circus. You may also wish to visit the Jane Austen Centre, stroll across the iconic Pultney Bridge and try a local delicacy: a Bath Bun. After ample time to explore Bath and have some lunch we will continue our journey in  The Cotswolds ; a designated area of outstanding natural beauty. This area is home to Britain’s most famous countryside, known for its beautiful scenery and historic association with sheep farming. We’ll travel through the rolling hills, passing a number of charming villages along the way. We’ll stop in at  Castle Combe , arguably the most picture-perfect village in The Cotswolds region. Here you can wander around the quiet streets and admire the villages’ idyllic river setting. At this point it is time to make our way back towards London, where our tour of Cornwall & the Cotswolds concludes.

The tour returns to the  Holiday Inn Hotel  in Kensington by approximately 18.00.

Tour Summary

Tour: Cornwall & the Cotswolds Tour

Duration: 5-days / 4-nights

You’ll Visit: Port Isaac, St Ives, Land’s End, Tintagel Castle, St Michael’s Mount – plus – Stonehenge, the Cotswolds, Bath and more

Includes: Minibus transportation, four nights accommodation (B&B or Hotel) and a friendly Driver-Guide

Extras:  Meals (except breakfast), entry to attractions

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Last Minute Trips

2025 dates now live, devon & cornwall walking tours, walking holidays in the south west.

Immerse yourself in England’s glorious South West with our walking tours of Devon and Cornwall. Travelling at your own pace, leave the crowds behind as we take you to the beaches of St Ives, across the wilds of Dartmoor, along the winding South West Coast Path and to the foodie heaven of Padstow.

With our expert guides leading the way, live like a local as you spot peregrine falcons, enjoy the tastiest cream tea in Devon and take off your walking boots to cross an estuary at low tide. From wild moors and ancient ruins to smuggler’s coves and traditional seafarer’s pub, England’s South West has something special for everyone. And with Devon just two hours from  London , or Cornwall only four, it’s never been closer.

Devon and Cornwall Walking Holidays

The South West has ‘Moor to Sea’! From the wild, rugged moorland of Devon to the dazzling coastline of Cornwall. 

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Prefer to go private.

Whether you prefer to travel on your own, as a couple or with friends and family, we offer a range of guided, private or self-guided tours, so that your Cornish or Devonshire walking vacation suits you perfectly.  You can even add in some cycling if you want to explore on two wheels! Be as active as you like, with tailored routes to suit both beginners and more experienced walkers. With our handpicked mix of the best trails in the South West, enjoy a seamless walking tour, safe in the knowledge we have everything covered.

Prefer to Cycle?

If you’d prefer to explore the South West on two wheels, check out our cycling holidays covering the best trails and carefully curated routes on quiet country lanes. 

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Walk devon & cornwall faqs.

Cornwall is in the far South West of England, bordered by the famous English Channel and Celtic Sea. Known for its natural beauty, rugged coastline, idyllic coastal villages, beaches and walking and cycling trails, Cornwall is an outdoor enthusiast’s ideal playground!

Devon is Cornwall’s wild neighbour, with craggy coasts to the North and South and ancient hills on Dartmoor! It has inspired authors and painters from afar and is a beautiful area in all weathers. 

The best way out of London and into Devon and Cornwall is by train. From Paddington direct to Exeter St David’s or Tiverton Parkway in around 2 hours, or continue to Bodmin Parkway in 4 hours. The South West is also easily accessible from Bristol and the Midlands by train. If you prefer to drive, there is station parking available at all train stations. 

To get a bit deeper into both counties it is easy to get a taxi from the train station.

All our trips are open for single travellers to join, these trips are a great way to meet social, like-minded people, active and looking for a great holiday. Over 30% of our guests travel alone. Solo guests have the option to have a room on their own or share with another guest.

There are hills, but with hills come great views and it means you feel like you’ve earned your fish & chips, cream tea or Cornish pasty! 

Changeable! Devon & Cornwall has a much more tropical climate than the rest of England so it is often warmer and wetter – it’s not uncommon to have sunshine and showers in the same day, or even the same hour! It’s generally very pleasant and settled during the summer.

Most of our trips are appropriate for guests who enjoy a good walk and can handle an incline or two. We cover varied terrain, enjoying some rolling hills and a few steeper walks which are slightly more demanding. Daily distances range from 4-10 miles. Rewarding views are guaranteed!

With exceptionally well-planned routes, our self-guided tours are designed to suit the independent traveller, couples or groups; those who wish to travel at their own pace and speed. With Ride With GPS and maps, we detail all of the points of interests, lunch stops, cafes – and of course pubs! Bike at your leisure, safe in the knowledge that a support team and emergency support vehicle is always on standby, and your luggage will be waiting for you at the end of the day.

Our guides are the beating heart of our tours and can make all the difference to the enjoyment of your walking holiday – so we make sure to choose them VERY carefully! They are driven, knowledgeable, know how to have A LOT of fun and importantly will take you on the ‘road less travelled’ across Devon and Cornwall. They are local to the South West and know the best spots for making your walking tour truly different and truly magical!

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Walking Holidays in Cornwall

Find your walking holiday in Cornwall. Walk the South West Coast Path or tour beautiful inland routes, daily luggage transfers provided.

https://www.contours.co.uk/walking-holidays-cornwall

See more of Cornwall on a self-guided walking holiday. Choose from our short breaks or our long-distance hikes, with something for even the newest walkers on our stile-free Camel Trail holidays .

Cornwall has a relaxed vibe that's best experienced at walking pace, with plenty of traditional pubs and cafes to delve into for a seaside break at lunchtime. On the South West Coast Path , you'll enjoy miles of stunning, sometimes rugged coastal views: the trail winds around every headland and down to each beach of the Cornish coastline, twining together a host of historied fishing villages along the way. Head inland across green fields and through ancient woodland on the Saints Way , or give your holiday a more spiritual slant with a pilgrimage to St Michael's Mount on the Cornish Celtic Way .

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Walking Holidays - Cornwall, Dartmoor, The Isles of Scilly and Corfu

Cornwall guided walking and hiking tours

Welcome to walkitcornwall. it’s another year of walking, dates for 2024 are below., why walk with me i’ll let others tell you. google reviews here tripadvisor here, i’m looking forward to walking with you this coming year , my walking holidays are still bespoke, personal and for small groups. i want you to go on a holiday that i would like to be taken on. and i have very high standards with a sense of fun and adventure., if you can imagine doing a lot but it’s chilled, then you’ve got it., the programme of guided walking holidays are in cornwall, on dartmoor, on the isles of scilly and corfu, greece for 2024. , hello. i am paul simmons the owner and principal guide of walkitcornwall., i’ve been leading guided walking holidays for 23 years and i like to tell stories about the interconnection between humanity and the landscape. we will scratch the surface of what makes cornwall, and anywhere we walk, so unique. i’m also a musician, have an ma in cornish studies and am presently embarking on a phd about walking. i love and live for walking, sharing my enthusiasm about piecing the stories together wherever we walk., the holidays are informative and entertaining. that’s what walkitcornwall is all about. , so who is this walkitcornwall guy.

Guided Walks Cornwall

Guided walks scillies, guided walks dartmoor, guided walking corfu, for the cornwall guided walking holidays check the days of arrival and departure. for a monday start you can arrive saturday or sunday and depart the following saturday. why not stay longer, walks are normally monday to friday but the five days of walks start two days after the recommended arrival day., if you can get a group together of 4+ on any other week of the year then ask and i might be able to put on a walking week for you., look at the dates for your preferred holiday and i can send you a pdf now ., walking blog.

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