The best Cornwall walks: 11 beautiful routes

Along the craggy Cornish shoreline the legendary South West Coast Path squiggles, rising and plunging in an endless, photogenic procession of limpid blue inlets, golden beaches and sleepy fishing villages. Cornish walking is defined by this spectacular surf-fringed route, which has sections suited to both casual strollers and serious trekkers.

Well trodden and well marked, most of the path is straightforward to tackle – even if you’ve never clapped eyes on an ordnance map. But that’s not to say you should underestimate it. Hikes may set off from a fashionable town with London-smart restaurants and galleries, but before long you’ll be skirting gorse-carpeted cliffs or scrambling up steep, rocky inclines. (In other words, wear solid shoes.)

It’s not just the wild seafront, with its epic views, that makes Cornwall a walker’s paradise. Strike out beyond the worn tracks of the coast and you’ll find tranquil trails through farmers’ fields, lush woodlands and windswept moors. But the best bit about a day spent on foot in the south-western county? There is always a smugglers’ pub, fabulous hotel or delicious, jam-smothered cream tea waiting at the end of it, no matter how exhausting the trek.

Golitha Falls

1.6km circular trail, OS Explorer map 109

Tucked away on the rugged moorland, this secluded walk has enchantment at every turn. Moss-covered trees and rocks create a blanket of soft greens, and the roaring river snakes through the woodland until it reaches the miniature “falls”, a selection of white water cascades. This is an easy and mostly flat walk (as long as you stick to the path), and a great option on a rainy day as the trees provide ample cover from the elements. In the high season, you can also find a small wood hut cafe for warming teas and coffees or even a post-walk replenishing meal. Lucy Bruton

Find out more: woodlandtrust.org.uk