Cornwall, with its stunning landscapes and diverse scenery, offers some of the best autumn walks in the UK. Whether you’re near Falmouth, exploring the dramatic coastline, or wandering through ancient woodlands, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top autumn walks in Cornwall, where you can immerse yourself in the season’s vibrant colours and crisp air.
1. The South West Coast Path (Porthcurno to Land's End)
Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and the iconic Minack Theatre.
Details: This section of the South West Coast Path, not far from Penzance and accessible from Falmouth, is known for its breathtaking views. The autumn light enhances the rugged coastline, and you might spot seals basking on the rocks below, making it a perfect day trip for those staying in Falmouth.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5 miles (8 km) one way
Postcode: TR19 6JX (Porthcurno), TR19 7AA (Land's End)
Parking Address: Porthcurno Car Park, Porthcurno, TR19 6JX
Parking Charge: £4.50 for the day at Porthcurno; £6.00 for the day at Land’s End
2. Tehidy Woods
Highlights: Serene woodland paths, vibrant autumn foliage, and a variety of wildlife.
Details: Tehidy Woods, located near Camborne and within easy reach from Falmouth, is Cornwall's largest area of woodland. It offers a network of trails through beech, oak, and chestnut trees. The autumn colours here are spectacular, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a family outing.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Various trails ranging from 1 to 5 miles
Postcode: TR14 0HA
Parking Address: South Drive Car Park, Tehidy Woods, Camborne, TR14 0HA
Parking Charge: £1.00 for 2 hours; £2.00 for all day
3. Bodmin Moor (Roughtor and Brown Willy)
Highlights: Panoramic views, ancient stones, and the highest peaks in Cornwall.
Details: A hike up Roughtor and Brown Willy, the two highest points in Cornwall, provides expansive views over the moorland, with the landscape taking on rich autumnal hues. This area is a bit further from Falmouth but is worth the drive for those looking to experience the raw beauty of Cornwall’s interior.
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: 5 miles (8 km) loop
Postcode: PL32 9QJ
Parking Address: Roughtor Car Park, Camelford, PL32 9QJ
Parking Charge: Free
4. Cardinham Woods
Highlights: Dense woodland trails, riverside paths, and autumn colours.
Details: Cardinham Woods offers a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. The woodland is particularly beautiful in autumn, with the trees displaying a rich tapestry of colours. Located near Bodmin, it’s a great option for those venturing out from Falmouth for a day of exploration.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Various trails ranging from 1.5 to 4 miles
Postcode: PL30 4AL
Parking Address: Cardinham Woods Car Park, Bodmin, PL30 4AL
Parking Charge: £3.00 for 2 hours; £5.00 for all day
5. Lanhydrock Estate
Highlights: Historic gardens, parkland, and woodlands.
Details: The National Trust's Lanhydrock Estate is perfect for an autumn stroll, with its formal gardens and extensive parkland framed by trees in vibrant autumn shades. It’s easily accessible from Falmouth, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Various trails ranging from 2 to 5 miles
Postcode: PL30 5AD
Parking Address: Lanhydrock House and Garden Car Park, Bodmin, PL30 5AD
Parking Charge: £1.00 per hour; £5.00 for all day (Free for National Trust members)
6. The Camel Trail (Padstow to Wadebridge)
Highlights: River views, woodlands, and charming villages.
Details: This flat, easy trail follows the course of a disused railway along the Camel Estuary. In autumn, the path is lined with colourful foliage, and you can enjoy the peaceful river scenery. It’s a bit of a drive from Falmouth, but the scenery and the charm of the nearby villages make it worth the journey.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 5.5 miles (9 km) one way
Postcode: PL28 8BL (Padstow), PL27 7AL (Wadebridge)
Parking Address: Padstow Harbour Car Park, Padstow, PL28 8BL
Parking Charge: £5.00 for 3 hours; £8.00 for all day
7. Golitha Falls
Highlights: Waterfalls, ancient woodlands, and autumn leaves.
Details: Located on the southern edge of Bodmin Moor, Golitha Falls is a series of cascades along the River Fowey. The surrounding woodland is particularly enchanting in autumn, with a carpet of fallen leaves and the sound of rushing water. This walk is ideal for those looking to combine a visit to Bodmin Moor with a stay in Falmouth.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) loop
Postcode: PL14 6RU
Parking Address: Golitha Falls Car Park, Draynes, PL14 6RU
Parking Charge: Free
8. The Roseland Peninsula (St. Anthony Head to St. Mawes)
Highlights: Coastal views, historic sites, and tranquil countryside.
Details: This walk offers a mix of coastal and countryside scenery, with stunning views across the Carrick Roads. The autumn light creates a magical atmosphere along the path. Located close to Falmouth, the Roseland Peninsula is perfect for those seeking a nearby adventure.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4 miles (6.5 km) one way
Postcode: TR2 5HA (St. Anthony Head), TR2 5AG (St. Mawes)
Parking Address: St. Anthony Head Car Park, St. Mawes, TR2 5HA
Parking Charge: £2.50 for 2 hours; £4.00 for all day
9. Pentewan Valley Trail
Highlights: River views, woodlands, and historical ruins.
Details: Following the route of an old railway line, this trail takes you through the picturesque Pentewan Valley, where the trees put on a colourful autumn display. It’s a scenic drive from Falmouth and offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) one way
Postcode: PL26 6BX
Parking Address: Pentewan Car Park, Pentewan, PL26 6BX
Parking Charge: £3.00 for 3 hours; £5.00 for all day
10. The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Highlights: Historic gardens, woodland walks, and autumn harvests.
Details: One of Cornwall’s most famous gardens, Heligan is a beautiful place to explore in autumn, with its woodlands, gardens, and the farm's harvest adding to the seasonal charm. It’s easily accessible from Falmouth, making it a must-visit for garden enthusiasts and those seeking tranquillity.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Various trails within the gardens
Postcode: PL26 6EN
Parking Address: Heligan Gardens Car Park, St. Austell, PL26 6EN
Parking Charge: Free (Entry fee to gardens: £22.50 for adults)
11. Kennall Vale Nature Reserve
Highlights: Enchanting woodland, historic gunpowder mills, cascading streams, and diverse wildlife.
Details: Located near Penryn, just a short drive from Falmouth, Kennall Vale is a hidden gem offering serene woodland walks through a lush valley. The area is dotted with the ruins of 19th-century gunpowder mills, adding a sense of mystery and history to the landscape. In autumn, the trees display a stunning array of colours, and the flowing streams and waterfalls create a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) loop
Postcode: TR3 7NR
Parking Address: Layby parking near the entrance, TR3 7NR
Parking Charge: Free
12. Gyllyngvase to Swanpool and Maenporth (Falmouth Coastal Walk)
Highlights: Stunning coastal views, sandy beaches, and charming coves.
Details: Starting from Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth, this scenic coastal walk takes you along the South West Coast Path, past Swanpool Beach and on to Maenporth Beach. The route offers spectacular views of Falmouth Bay, with opportunities to spot seabirds and enjoy the autumnal hues along the coastline. This walk is perfect for those based in Falmouth or visitors looking to explore the area's coastal beauty. The path is well-maintained, making it accessible for all fitness levels, and you can enjoy a refreshment at one of the beachside cafés along the way.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) one way
Postcode: TR11 4PA (Gyllyngvase Beach)
Parking Address: Gyllyngvase Beach Car Park, Falmouth, TR11 4PA
These walks offer a chance to experience the best of Cornwall’s natural beauty during the autumn months, whether you’re based in Falmouth or exploring further afield.