The Best Walks in North Cornwall

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Pure bliss

Whether you enjoy peaceful countryside strolls, rugged coastal paths, or varied terrain adventures, Cornwall’s got you covered with its stunning views and vibrant wildlife, North Cornwall is a dream for anyone who loves being outside. No matter the season, there’s nothing quite like lacing up your walking boots and soaking in that fresh Cornish air – Its pure bliss.

The Camel Trail

For a slightly easier but equally beautiful walk, The Camel Trail is ideal. It is a 17 mile long path which runs from the foot of Bodmin Moor all the way to Padstow via Wadebridge. A disused railway line, it’s completely flat so makes a relaxing, leisurely walk. We’re just a 10-minute drive from Wadebridge, which is great starting point for walking to Padstow. The stretch from Wadebridge to Padstow is around 5 miles each way – reward yourself with some local fish and chips in Padstow before returning to Wadebridge. If you feel like swapping your walking boots for some wheels, there’s always Bridge Bike Hire in Wadebridge.

Bridge Bike Hire | 01208 813050

The South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path is 630 miles of designated path following the coastline. What’s great about it is that you can join at almost any point and walk as little or as far as you like with never-ending views of the ocean. Following the cragged cliff tops, the path is clearly signposted and takes in many historic relics and ancient ruins. With so many options, it’s advisable to plan your route using the South West Coast Path route planner. One of our favourite walks in North Cornwall from The Olde House would be Port Isaac to Rock, a challenging 12 miles, but you could pick up at Port Quinn or Pentire Head for a shorter option.

Bodmin Moor

Bodmin Moor is made up of one hundred square miles and has been designated an area of outstanding natural beauty. It is home to Brown Willy and Roughtor, the two highest points in Cornwall. With climbs and a rugged terrain, it is a place for those who fancy a challenging walk. The moor is scattered with Bronze Age relics and has endless views of uninterrupted countryside – don’t forget your binoculars.

Coastal landscape with green hillsides, a winding path, and cliffs overlooking the blue ocean under a partly cloudy sky.

A scenic coastal landscape with a group of people walking on a path beside lush green bushes, overlooking a sandy beach and blue sea under a partly cloudy sky.

A narrow dirt path along a grassy cliffside with yellow flowering bushes, leading towards the ocean. A person and a dog are walking along the path under a clear blue sky.

Two people riding bicycles on a gravel path surrounded by greenery and wildflowers under a blue sky.

The Olde House Farm Trail

For something a little closer, there is always our very own farm trail. Our farm trail is a footpath that takes its followers around 550 acres of countryside and farmland that surrounds us. Taking between one and a half to two and half hours to complete, it is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon, especially teamed with a picnic on those warm summer days. Our bird hide also sits along the path, so visitors can do a spot of birdwatching whilst on their walks in North Cornwall. We have maps available from reception.

Brae Hill

For one of the most spectacular views in the area, park at Rock & walk out along the estuary. At low tide you can walk along the sand, but if the tide is in you can walk along the cliffs until you reach Brae Hill, which is nestled between Rock & Daymer Bay. You cannot miss the towering Brea Hill rising above the estuary. Challenge your family to a race to the summit and catch your breath whilst taking in stunning views of the Camel Estuary out to sea.

Rock to Polzeath

A popular walk from Rock to the neighbouring village of Polzeath on the Cornish coast. This North Cornwall walk is a distance of about 2.5 miles with some small climbs on the way. It runs along the Camel Estuary with stunning views over to Padstow on the other side. The walk starts in Rock where there is a public car park near the coast. From here you can pick up the South West Coast Path and follow the waymarked footpath north to Cassock Hill and Brea Hill. The route continues past Daymer Bay and the Doom Bar to Trebetherick Point. The final section runs past Broadagogue Cove before finishing in Polzeath. The award winning beach is a popular place for surfers and has a great choice of ice cream shops and lunch spots!