I love to explore the outdoors, and Penzance is the perfect spot for a scenic hike.
With its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and lush green valleys, it offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and interesting sights.
From the iconic St. Michael’s Mount to the Hayle Estuary Trail, there are plenty of amazing walks in the area.
In this article, I’ll be sharing my favorite hikes and scenic strolls in Penzance, so you can enjoy the best of what the region has to offer.
From the rugged cliffs of St. Ives Coast Path to the tranquil gardens of Trengwainton, there’s something for everyone.
So grab your walking boots and let’s explore the 15 best walks in Penzance!
St. Michael’s Mount
You won’t want to miss a visit to the majestic St. Michael’s Mount! Located off the coast of Marazion, Cornwall, the island of St. Michael’s Mount has been a popular tourist destination since the 11th century.
The island is home to a castle and a church, both of which are surrounded by an area of beautiful gardens and coastlines. The castle was built in the 12th century and is still inhabited by the St. Aubyn family, who are the hereditary owners of the island.
The castle and gardens are open to the public for guided tours, and there are a variety of activities available such as boat rides, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors can also take a short trip to the top of the island for stunning views of the Roseland Peninsula and the surrounding English Channel.
The island is easily accessible by boat or on foot from Marazion at low tide. This is an ideal spot for a peaceful and relaxing walk, and one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Cornwall.
St. Ives Coast Path
Stroll along the St. Ives Coast Path, and you’ll experience stunning views of the Cornish coast.
This path offers a unique opportunity to explore the area’s diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to rugged cliffs and sandy beaches.
Along the way, you’ll find a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and rare seabirds, as well as stunning views of the ocean.
The path itself is easy to navigate, with plenty of signposts and well-maintained pathways.
It’s also possible to take a short detour to explore some of the area’s historic sites, such as the ancient port of St. Ives.
If you’re looking for a walk that combines natural beauty with a sense of history, the St. Ives Coast Path is a great choice.
Marazion Marsh Walk
Take a peaceful stroll through Marazion Marsh, one of Cornwall’s most stunning nature reserves. Located near Penzance, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a more vigorous hike.
The reserve is rich in wildlife, with a huge variety of birds, butterflies, and dragonflies. The marsh is also home to some rare species of plants, including marsh orchids and marsh samphire.
The marsh is part of the Marazion Beach, which is a beautiful stretch of golden sand. The views across the bay from the beach are stunning, with the Isles of Scilly visible on a clear day.
To experience the marsh at its best, head out early in the morning when the wildlife is most active. The marsh also has an abundance of wildlife to explore, so you’ll never get bored.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or an invigorating hike, the Marazion Marsh Walk is sure to be a memorable experience.
Mousehole to Lamorna Valley
Experience a picturesque journey from the coastal village of Mousehole to Lamorna Valley, a beautiful wooded valley surrounded by Cornish countryside.
This stunning walk stretches for just over 6 miles and includes gorgeous views of the Cornish coastline and spectacular landscapes.
As you make your way from the harbor village of Mousehole to the tranquil Lamorna Valley, you’ll pass through a mix of wooded areas and open fields and will be treated to stunning views of the turquoise sea.
The route is mostly flat, so it’s suitable for all fitness levels, and the friendly locals you’ll meet along the way will add to your enjoyment.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, the Mousehole to Lamorna Valley walk is perfect for a memorable day out.
Penzance to the Lizard
Discover the stunning scenery of Cornwall’s south coast with a breathtaking walk from Penzance to the Lizard.
Starting at the harbour in Penzance, you’ll take a winding path past an old castle and a series of idyllic beaches, before reaching the Lizard Point and its sweeping views of the rugged Cornish coastline.
The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness and experience, with plenty of opportunities to take a break and admire the scenery. There’s even a few local pubs and cafes along the route to stop off at and enjoy a refreshing pint or snack.
You’ll also have the chance to spot some of Cornwall’s diverse wildlife, including seabirds and seals.
The walk is around 10 miles in total, so it’s best to plan your day and give yourself plenty of time to take in all the sights.
Trenow Cove
As you make your way to the Lizard, be sure to stop off at Trenow Cove and enjoy its breathtaking beauty.
Situated just north of the Lizard Point, Trenow Cove is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is known for its stunning scenery and views, and is a great place to take a break from your journey.
The cove is surrounded by the picturesque cliffs of the Lizard and makes for a great place to take photos. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the rocky beach, which is perfect for exploring the local wildlife. Be sure to bring your camera and capture the stunning views of the cove and its surroundings.
There is also a path that takes you to the top of the cliffs, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an exhilarating adventure, Trenow Cove is the perfect spot.
Mount’s Bay Coastal Walk
Take in the stunning views of Mount’s Bay as you embark on the coastal walk from Penzance.
This 4-mile route takes you along the shoreline of this picturesque bay, offering stunning views of St. Michael’s Mount, the iconic tidal island castle.
The walk passes through the fishing villages of Marazion and Mousehole, where you can take a break and explore the local pubs for some delicious Cornish seafood.
As you move further along, you’ll reach the beautiful landscape of Porthcurno beach. Enjoy the stunning scenery and admire the wildflowers that bloom in the area.
The walk culminates with a breathtaking view of the bay, where you can sit and admire the scenery and take a few moments to appreciate the beauty of nature.
Perranuthnoe to Prussia Cove
After the stunning views of the Mount’s Bay Coastal Walk, why not take a longer stroll along the beautiful Perranuthnoe to Prussia Cove route?
This is a great walk for someone looking for a more challenging and rewarding experience. It’s a seven-mile round trip route, taking in some of the most spectacular views of the Cornish coast.
As you make your way along the path, you’ll be able to see the remains of an Iron Age fort, St Michael’s Mount in the distance, and the picturesque Prussia Cove.
Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning scenery, spot wildlife, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the area.
The path is well-marked and easy to follow, so you can be confident of completing the journey without getting lost. There are also a few refreshment stops along the way, so you can take a break and enjoy a picnic before continuing on your journey.
Loe Pool Nature Reserve
Venture off the beaten track and explore the Loe Pool Nature Reserve, a tranquil haven of beautiful wildflowers, wildlife, and even an ancient tree. It’s a great place to take a leisurely walk, listen to the birdsong, and take in the sights of the lush green meadows and scenic views of the estuary.
There’s plenty to explore in the nature reserve, which covers an area of over 500 acres. You can spot a variety of wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and herons, and take a stroll along the two-mile-long nature trail. The trail takes you past a range of fascinating plants, such as marsh orchids, and the ancient oak tree, which is believed to be over 1,000 years old.
The wildlife and stunning landscapes make this the perfect spot for a peaceful and tranquil walk.
The Lizard Point
For stunning coastal views, take a trip to the Lizard Point, the most southerly point of mainland Britain.
The area around Lizard Point is a National Trust site and is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a great spot for a peaceful and scenic walk around the cliff-top paths.
The views of the coastline from the point are breathtaking, with the dramatic cliffs and seascapes of the Cornish coast stretching out before you. The walk around the point is dotted with caves and coves to explore, and you can even see the Isles of Scilly in the distance on a clear day.
The views from the top of the lighthouse are also magnificent, and the area is rich in wildlife including seabirds, seals, dolphins, and porpoises.
Taking a stroll here is an unforgettable experience, and a great way to take in the beauty of the Cornish coast.
Godrevy Lighthouse
Enjoy a spectacular view of the Cornish coast from Godrevy Lighthouse, a stunning 19th-century lighthouse that stands atop the rugged cliffs of St Ives Bay.
Built in 1858, the lighthouse has become an iconic symbol of Cornwall, and today it is a popular destination for visitors to the region.
A walk to Godrevy is the perfect way to take in the rugged beauty of the Cornish coastline, with its dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean and breathtaking scenery.
The walk to Godrevy Lighthouse starts at the National Trust car park, which is located just a few minutes away from the lighthouse itself.
From here, you can follow the coastal path that winds its way along the cliffs, taking in the dramatic views and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below.
Along the way, you can spot a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and dolphins.
Once you reach the lighthouse, you have the opportunity to explore its grounds and take in the amazing sea views before heading back.
Hayle Estuary Trail
Take a stroll along the Hayle Estuary Trail and experience the stunning views of the river, sand dunes, and wildlife.
This walking route is a great way to explore the estuary’s natural beauty, and it’s free and easily accessible from the nearby town of Hayle.
The trail takes you along a path that winds through various habitats, such as salt marshes, mudflats, sand dunes, and sheltered creeks.
As you go, you can observe a range of wildlife, including wading birds, mammals, and fish.
One of the highlights is the awe-inspiring view of the estuary’s wide expanse and its many hidden coves.
The trail can be walked in a few hours or can be broken up into shorter sections if you prefer.
There are benches along the way for you to take a rest and soak in the views.
Whether you’re a birdwatcher, nature enthusiast, or just want to get some fresh air, the Hayle Estuary Trail is a great choice for a leisurely walk.
Penzance Promenade
Soak in the stunning sea-views while strolling along Penzance Promenade. This popular walkway runs along the western edge of Penzance and is one of the most picturesque places to explore in the area.
Visitors can take in views of the iconic St. Michael’s Mount, the picturesque Mount’s Bay, and the stunning surrounding countryside. The Promenade is a great place to go for a leisurely stroll or for a longer walk. It’s also a great place to take a picnic or just sit and enjoy the scenery.
There is plenty of parking and public transport links to the Promenade, making it an easy and enjoyable experience for all. Additionally, the area is well-maintained and regularly cleaned, ensuring a safe and pleasant walk for everyone.
The Promenade is a great way to explore the beauty of Penzance and its surrounding areas, and it’s sure to provide a memorable experience for all.
St. Just to Cape Cornwall
Embark on a unique journey along the St. Just to Cape Cornwall path and admire the spectacular views of the rugged Cornish coastline. This picturesque path is one of the most unique walks in the area and offers a wealth of breathtaking sights to explore.
Stretching from St. Just to Cape Cornwall, the walk takes you along the breathtaking cliffs and remote coves of the Cornish Coast. Along the way, you will be treated to the hidden gems of Cornwall, including the majestic cliffs of Cape Cornwall and the bustling fishing village of St. Just.
As you make your way along the path, you will be able to take in the breathtaking and dramatic scenery that the area has to offer. From the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside to the stunning views of the sea, you will be able to soak in the beauty of the Cornish Coast.
The path is a great way to explore the area without having to venture too far and with a few stops along the way, you can take in the stunning sights of the region in comfort.
Trengwainton Garden Walk
Head to Trengwainton Garden for a stunning stroll among the vibrant flowers and lush greenery of this quintessential Cornish garden. Enter through the main gates and wander through the formal gardens, complete with a stunning lily pond, terraces, rhododendrons, and an array of seasonal flowers.
There’s also plenty of space to simply sit and take in the sights and sounds of nature. The grounds offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, and the two-mile circular walk takes in the best of the gardens.
A stop at the old kitchen garden is a must, with its vibrant fruit trees and vegetables. Afterwards, take a break in the tea room and enjoy a cup of tea while admiring the views of Mount’s Bay. Trengwainton Garden is a must for anyone looking for a peaceful escape to enjoy nature’s beauty.
Conclusion
My journey exploring the best walks in Penzance has come to an end.
From the majestic St. Michael’s Mount to the tranquil Trengwainton Garden Walk, Penzance’s beauty is undeniable.
Whether you’re looking for a long hike, a nice stroll, or something in between, Penzance has something for everyone.
So pack your bag, grab a map, and explore all the wonderful walks Penzance has to offer.
You won’t regret it!