Padstow to Porthcothan

Embark on a journey through a captivating slice of Cornwall's coastline as you trek from the bustling harbour town of Padstow to the tranquil bay of Porthcothan. This section of the South West Coast Path is a delightful blend of sandy beaches, dramatic headlands, and charming hamlets, all wrapped up in stunning sea views and invigorating coastal air.

Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km)

Difficulty: Moderate

Starting Point: Padstow

Your adventure begins in the vibrant fishing port of Padstow, known for its excellent seafood restaurants and the famous May Day 'Obby 'Oss festival. After exploring the town, make your way to the harbour and follow the South West Coast Path signs westwards, towards Trevone.

Facilities: Padstow has a wide range of amenities, including cafes, pubs, shops, and public toilets.

Trevone Bay (2 miles from Padstow)

As you leave Padstow, you'll pass through rolling farmland before descending into Trevone Bay, a Blue Flag beach popular with surfers and families. Take a moment to explore Trevone's unique rocky beach, full of tidal pools teeming with marine life.

Facilities: At Trevone, there are public toilets and a beach shop with a cafe.

Harlyn Bay and Mother Ivey's Bay (6 miles from Padstow)

Continuing along the path, you'll pass through a series of stunning beaches, including Harlyn Bay, a favourite with local surfers, and the more secluded Mother Ivey's Bay. This stretch of the path delivers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and, on a clear day, you might even spot seals bobbing in the water.

Facilities: There are toilets and a seasonal cafe at Harlyn Bay. No facilities at Mother Ivey's Bay, so make sure you have what you need.

Trevose Head (8 miles from Padstow)

As you approach Trevose Head, the path becomes more exposed and the views even more spectacular. The headland is home to Trevose Head Lighthouse, a landmark that has been guiding ships since 1847. It's also a great spot for birdwatching, with peregrine falcons often seen soaring above the cliffs.

Facilities: None at Trevose Head.

Final Stretch: Porthcothan Bay (14 miles)

The last leg of your journey takes you through a landscape that might feel familiar, as it's been used as a filming location for the popular TV series "Poldark". As you descend into Porthcothan Bay, you'll be greeted by a beautiful sandy beach flanked by high cliffs. It's the perfect place to rest and reflect on your journey.

Facilities: There are toilets and a small shop at Porthcothan Bay.

Points to Remember

Terrain: This section involves a mix of sandy beaches, grassy cliff-tops, and some steep sections. Good walking shoes are essential.

Facilities: Available in Padstow, Trevone, Harlyn Bay, and Porthcothan. Limited in between, so carry sufficient water and snacks.

Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly – pack layers and a waterproof jacket.

Seasonal Refreshments: Available at the cafes in Trevone and Harlyn Bay during the summer months.