Explore | Walking & Cycling | Walking In Newquay
Walking In Newquay
Newquay is home to a diverse number of walking trails, from hikes along the spectacular south west coast path, to stomping across miles of sandy shoreline, to simply pottering about the town and taking in the sights. One thing is certain; wherever you’re walking in Newquay, you’re guaranteed show-stopping views.
With so many stunning places to see and so much to do, lace up your boots and set off to enjoy the abundance of walks Newquay has to offer. And don’t forget to take a break at one of the many pubs for a well-deserved lunch or pack a pasty picnic and find a secluded spot to settle down and tuck in. Take your pick of one of our four recommended walks that follow the peaks and troughs of Newquay’s coastline below, or if you fancy tackling it all, start at either end (Pentire Headland or The Barrowfields) to combine them for a sizeable challenge!
One thing is certain; wherever you’re walking in Newquay, you’re guaranteed show-stopping views.
Route 1: Pentire Headland
🥾 Easy | ⏰ Approx. 30 mins | 🐾 Dog Friendly
This rugged headland walk offers lofty, birds-eye views of coastline stretching out across the River Gannel and towards the golden sands of Crantock Beach to the west, and out to surf mecca, Fistral Beach, to the north.
With plenty of parking on site – the car park has a pretty great view too! – plus lots of benches to take a load off along the way, this bracing circular walk follows the natural curvature of the cliff formation that projects out into the ocean. Flaunting all-encompassing sea views and an abundance of flora and fauna to spot, there’s no shortage of picture opportunities here. When you reach the very tip of the peninsula, pick out aptly-named Sunset Rock directly in front of you before heading down the far side of the headland and looping back to the car park. Please exercise due caution with dogs, keep them on leads near sheer cliff edges and beware strong winds in the winter months.
Route 2: Fistral Beach to Little Fistral
🥾 Easy-Moderate | ⏰ Approx. 30 mins | 🐾 Dog Friendly
This popular seaside stroll takes you from the far end of Fistral Beach, right across the sand dunes over to Little Fistral and up to Towan Headland, if you wish to go that far! A favourite amble for locals and visitors, this walk promises a day full of soft sand, sea views, and an ice-cold drink to celebrate at the end.
Starting from Esplanade Road (or Pentire Headland for those looking for more of a leg-stretch), follow the south west coast path that leads towards the south end of Fistral Beach – you’ll be greeted with gorgeous sweeping views of the bay ahead of you, so there’s little chance you’ll miss it! Taking either the steps down or continuing on the coast path that runs along the sand dunes, make your way across the shoreline and up to north Fistral. Once there, the path will take you up off the beach as it winds around the Headland Hotel before culminating at Little Fistral. Loop back to Fistral Beach for a refreshing drink or a bite to eat while spectating the surfers, then return to your starting point. The majority of bars and restaurants available here are dog friendly, so the pup won’t miss out!
Route 3: Huer’s Hut to The Island at Towan (via The Harbour)
🥾 Easy | ⏰ Approx. 15 mins | 🐾 Dog Friendly
From Towan Headland, strike a course east and follow the South West Coast Path until reaching the historic, iconic white building perched high up on the cliff top, the Huer’s Hut.
Dating back to around the 14th century the Huer’s Hut is a Grade II listed building symbolic of Newquay’s intrinsic connection to the ocean and large scale fishing past; this is a fantastic photo opportunity! Take a picture here and you’ll be in good company of the likes of The Beatles and many others drawn to this beautiful, ancient building with its incredible ocean backdrop. From here, carry on eastwards towards picturesque Newquay Harbour (passing another historic landmark, the Fly Cellars). Make sure you pause for a few minutes at the harbour to take in this stunning natural beauty spot before continuing onward with your journey. If the tide is out, head down the steps to the right of the harbour wall and wander round to Towan Beach. If the tide is in, take a short saunter through this side of town, bearing left where the land begins to slope towards Towan Beach and its well-known red-roofed house sitting atop The Island.
Route 4: The Barrowfields to Great Western Beach (via Tolcarne)
🥾 Easy-Moderate | ⏰ Approx. 30 mins | 🐾 Dog Friendly
When the tide is out, let your happy feet take a relaxed ramble along this set of breathtaking beaches across Newquay Bay; you’ll cover three of the town’s major beaches, with some secret coves and hidden caves to explore along the way. This walk is perfect for those with dogs in tow or a barefoot stomp on a sunny day!
Starting from Towan Beach, round The Island where the instantly recognisable house sits high and mighty, and head over to Great Western Beach. Pick your way across the shoreline until you reach the next rugged rock formation, this connects you to Tolcarne Beach. From Tolcarne, head up the slope (or brave the stairs!) to reach elevated grassy cliff top green space, the Barrowfields. If you look westward from the top, you’ll see the gloriously immense stretch of sand you just traversed. Along this beach-based hike, there are an abundance of places to eat and drink along the way; the choice is yours!