Cornwall is a popular spot for family holidays, and with good reason! It is the perfect place for outdoor adventures with children in tow, with unspoilt vistas, sweeping coastal views, cliffs, creeks, woods, and beaches. There are loads of family friendly hikes and walks to enjoy, whether you enjoy coastal walks, woodland ambles, or exploring coves and beaches. You can enjoy fascinating local wildlife and even remnants of medieval and military history. When you visit the Roseland Peninsula, you can access the South West Coast Path easily, connecting with trails suited to all ages and fitness levels. Here, we look at some of the best family friendly hikes along the South Coast of Cornwall.
Some of Our Favourite Outdoor Adventures
When you are ready to get your family out in nature and see some of the local sights, there are plenty of options for families in South Cornwall.
- The Pentewan Trail is a lovely, level walk. Beginning at the car park adjoining the Kingswood Restaurant in St Austell, you will walk along the river to Pentewan. Once you reach this charming little coastal village, stop to enjoy one of its cafes or the pub, or spend some time on its beautiful sandy beach.
- Enjoy a taste of the Bissoe Trail. The full Bissoe Trail is a coast-to-coast route, running from Devoran on the south coast and passing through Bissoe en route to Portreath on the north coast. It is 11 miles long, which is probably too much if you have little ones, but it is easy to walk from Devoran to Bissoe, or vice versa. There is parking at either end, and an old tram road that is perfect for walking with young children. If you end your walk in Bissoe, stop for refreshments at Bissoe Bike Hire Café. Ending at Devoran allows you to spend time exploring this pretty Creekside village.
- The Argal Reservoir is a wonderful place to explore. This magical spot, just above Penryn, offers a lovely woodland stroll around the lake. Along the way, you will enjoy gorgeous views, local wildlife, and if you go in the autumn, be sure to take something along for holding all the blackberries you can pick in the abundant bramble.
- Alongside the upper reaches of the River Fal is the North Woodland Walk in Trelissick. This 1.5 mile circular walk starts at the National Trust car park, where you will find signs for the Woodland walks. Taking the north walk, you will follow the path beside the River Fal and Lamouth Creek, passing through beautiful scenery. At the National Trust café and kiosk, you can find snacks, drinks, and ice cream.
- Hike from Mullion to Lizard Point, stopping at Kynance Cove along the way. This is one of the best parts of the South West Coast Path, with tall, jagged cliffs, and gorgeous ocean views the whole way. Kynance Cove offers easy access to the beach and a café.
- The trail between Land’s End and Porthcurno offers a beautiful walk along the amazing coastline. It is about 5.2 miles, mostly along sea cliffs, and in Porthcurno, you will find a sandy beach to enjoy. In Land’s End there are cafes, gift shops, and a large playground. Here, you can buy Cornish pasties to carry away for a picnic lunch. It is important to note that the last third of the hike, heading into Porthcurno, is dense underbrush and can be quite muddy. If you prefer a shorter walk with less underbrush, it is easy to walk from Land’s End to the lookout over Sennen beach, on a well-maintained trail. If you do decide to walk to Porthcurno, you can visit the famous Minack Theatre, carved into the sea cliffs.
Practical Tips for Family Hikes in Cornwall
- Cliff Safety: Many of the best hikes in Cornwall involve walking along tall cliffs that do not have safety barriers. The paths are back from the edge, but if your children are very young or rambunctious, it could be dangerous. Make sure to carefully instruct and watch children, and use caution in hazardous areas.
- Weather Readiness: Cornwall’s weather is changeable, so make sure you pack waterproof gear, layers, and wellies! Fleece jackets come in handy, as do rain pants, rain jackets, waterproof shoes with ankle support, and hiking sticks.
- Beach safety: It is important to note that the tides can be extreme in Cornwall. Check the tide schedule before heading out, so that you will not get stuck on a rapidly disappearing beach at high tide, or to have to hike 10 or 15 extra minutes just to reach the water. Pay attention to the warning signs on the beaches, because the undercurrents can be very strong, and most beaches do not have lifeguards.
- Transportation: There are large parking lots conveniently located near most of these walks, beaches, and coves, many of them operated by the National Trust. If you plan to take a one-way walk, rather than a circular walk, a taxi is a good idea. You can park your car at one end of your route and have a taxi pick you up and drop you at the other. Then, when you have finished your walk, you will be back at your car.
- Essentials: While the weather may be unpredictable and often wet, it can also be bright and sunny. On those gorgeous sunny days, the UV rays from light bouncing off of the rocks, cliffs, and sea can be particularly harmful. It is important to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat that will not blow off on a clifftop. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and always travel with a physical map, in case you get turned around in a place with weak cell service.
Explore the South Coast of Cornwall from the Rosevine Hotel
Beautifully situated in Portscatho, The Rosevine offers the most welcoming, family-friendly accommodations in all of Cornwall. Designed to feel like your home away from home, our charming boutique hotel is designed to provide an atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy your family holiday. Many of our rooms offer stunning views of the sea, and our location is a short walk from the coastline, within easy reach of the charming shops, galleries, and local pubs in the village. When you are ready for the perfect getaway in Cornwall, it is easy to book your stay online. Should you need more information or directions, contact us through our website.
