The South West is blessed with a wild coastline, quaint towns and open spaces, which is home to some fantastic Devon and Cornwall coastal walks. However, there are many hidden gems throughout these counties which many visitors are yet to see and explore.
Boscastle, Cornwall
Boscastle is a picturesque fishing village with a stunning coastline. This village has a steep history with many authors and artists having sought inspiration here, and is recognised as one of Cornwall’s most romantic places. The landscape and coastline is what sets this village apart from the rest. Walking through the streets, you will stroll past old buildings, which have been converted to pubs, cafés and restaurants. The wonky rooftops and crooked cottages are really a sight to see. There are also a number of churches which date back to Norman times which are also fantastic to explore.
Close to Boscastle, is a sacred site called Saint Nectan’s Glen, this is where the River Trevillet has created a magnificent 60ft waterfall of cascading water which dips into a striking valley.
You can follow in the footsteps of Thomas Hardy, a famous novelist, by following the path through the woods and stumbling upon St, Juliot’s Church. View the Old Rectory where when working as an architect in 1870, Hardy first met his sweetheart Emma.
Throughout your walk, you will also be able to view Cornwall’s famous slate cliffs, the ancient port, as well as preserved traditional farming areas.
Tintagel, Cornwall
Tintagel is set high on North Cornwall’s stunning coastline. It is full of dramatic views of the sea as well as an ancient castle. Steeped in mystery, Tintagel has fired the imaginations of writers and artists throughout history. Linked with the legend of King Arthur, this town is a great place to explore. Tintagel Castle is one of the most visited attractions in the South West, and rightfully so. You can immerse yourself in the myths and mystery which this castle holds.
The castle gained its fame when Geoffrey of Monmouth named it as the place King Arthur was conceived, however no-one knows for sure if this is true. This legend is just one of the features that makes Tintagel so fascinating and such a mystery. Although the Romans occupied the area, the castle was actually built in the 13th century, and was the home to the Earls of Cornwall. The castle was built to impress as it had little strategic value.
Throughout the year, Tintagel is the perfect place for stroll. Walk above the roaring sea whilst enjoying the views up and down the coastline. Just down the road is Rocky Valley, it is a spectacular gorge and a with a tumbling river, it the perfect way to see Cornwall in all its beauty.
Bude, Cornwall
Once a busy commercial port, Bude has become renowned for its painted beach huts, wide sandy beaches and stunning coastal views. Full of charm, this town is a popular place for avid surfers, and walkers. There are lots of independent shops and great places to eat.
Bude canal is a mini-network of waterways which sits on the Cornwall/Devon border. It has a history of spanning some 190 years. It may not have been the centre of any historic activity but it is still fascinating none the less. The sea lock is only one of two working gates in Britain and is a breath-taking sight. You can roam beside the canal and discover abundant wildlife whilst taking in the peaceful views which this canal offers.
Clovelly, Devon
The cobbled streets of Clovelly tumble its way past traditional cottages down to an ancient fishing harbour. It has a great atmosphere which has been preserved since it has been privately owned. It is a great mix of pebbled beaches, coastal woodland and picturesque views.
Morwenstow, Cornwall
Morwenstow is a small village which is near the Cornwall and Devon border. Being only 6 miles from Bude, it sits only a short distance from the Atlantic coast. Like many towns throughout Cornwall, Morwenstow is brimming with history, with its Saxton Church sitting tall on the cliff edge. From this church you can spot Lundy Island as well as discover a little cabin called Hawker’s Hut, which was once the refuge of poet Reverend Robert Hawker. It is the smallest property that belongs to the National Trust.
Hartland, Devon
Hartland is often referred to as a ‘walkers paradise’ and it truly is, with its rugged cliffs and spectacular coastline, ancient woodland and stunning scenery. In Hartland Quay you will find the Shipwreck and Smuggling Museum. Because Hartland is a historic port and is positioned rather precariously amongst coastal scenery, it was a common place for ships to wreck.
Hartland town is remote but charming, with its many cottages, cafés and restaurants lining the streets.
If you have any questions then please contact us, we will be happy to tell you lots more about our walking holidays.
