5 Best Circular Pub Walks in Cornwall: Coastal Hikes & Historic Inns
There is something about a Cornish coastal path that demands a celebratory pint at the finish line. Over decades of exploring these cliffs for the Western Morning News and Western Daily Press, I’ve found that the best days out are almost always 'circular'—getting you back to the car without a logistics headache—and invariably involve some kind of watering hole, in my case preferably an historic inn. In this collection, I’ve rounded up five of my favourite loops that capture the spirit of Cornwall, from the sheltered creeks of the Helford to the rugged mysticism of West Penwith.
If you enjoy these tales of the trail, you can join me on the move in my podcast, 'Adventures in Journalism.' It’s where I take the conversations further, sharing the stories behind the walks and the people who make this peninsula so unique. You can find it on Libsyn or via the link on this site—perfect listening for the drive down to the start of the hike.
Coast path near Lansallos
1. The Classic Fowey & Hall Walk Loop
A contender for the best walk in the West Country. This four-mile circuit includes two ferry rides, ancient woodlands, and the stunning Lantic Bay.
The Route: From Fowey to Bodinnick, through Hall Walk to Pont Pill, and back via Polruan.
The Pub: Finish with a pint at The Lugger Inn in Polruan
Polruan
2. The Mawnan Smith & Helford Peninsula
This "lasso-shaped" walk explores the sheltered, Mediterranean-style coastline where the Helford River meets the sea. It passes the historic WWII embarkation point at Polgwidden Cove.
Ferry Boat Inn at Helford Passage
The Route: Starting at Mawnan Church, rounding Rosemullion Head, and skirting the edge of Glendurgan Gardens.
The Pub: A well-earned roast at The Red Lion in Mawnan Smith or a waterside drink at the Ferry Boat Inn.
Coast path wends its way past Mawnan Smith
3. The Flushing & Mylor Creek Circuit
A wonderful "watery" walk that offers fantastic views of Falmouth Docks and the Carrick Roads without the heavy climbing of the outer coast path.
The Route: From the historic village of Flushing, around Trefusis Point to Mylor Marina, and back over the hill.
The Pub: Extend the walk to the Pandora Inn (famous for its floating pontoon) or the snazzy pubs in Flushing, such as the Royal Standard
Harbour at Flushing
4. Lamorna Cove & The Merry Maidens
Experience the "Deep West" of Cornwall. This walk blends the romantic, rocky coastline of Lamorna with the mystical atmosphere of the 4,000-year-old Merry Maidens stone circle.
Lamorna Cove
The Route: A climb out of Lamorna Cove onto the Rosemodress Cliffs, turning inland to the stone circles of Penwith.
The Pub: Enjoy the atmosphere at the Lamorna Wink or The Logan Rock Inn at Treen
Logan Rock Inn, Treen
5. The Lansallos "Secret" Coastal Loop
If you want to escape the crowds of Polperro, this hidden gem offers what the National Trust calls "one of the most beautiful approaches to the coast in Cornwall.”
View across to Lansallos
The Route: From Lansallos village down an ancient packhorse trail to the beach, east to East Coombe, and back via the fields.
The Pub: While Lansallos is delightfully remote, it's the perfect precursor to a pint at the Blue Peter Inn in Polperro, just a 10-minute drive away.
Hiking the coast path near Lansallos
Why These Walks?
Each of these routes has been hand-selected because they offer the "Holy Trinity" of Cornish hiking: a circular route, coastal views, and a historic pub nearby. Whether you are looking for the rugged cliffs of the north or the wooded creeks of the south, these 5 walks represent the very best of Martin Hesp’s "Hikometer" ratings.
