South West Walks you must try this Spring

Grab your hiking boots and immerse yourself in some of the South West’s most scenic walks – better still, we’ve paired each trail with a nearby pub, to finish your hike with a much-deserved pint and some proper pub grub.

From Land’s End to Lyme Regis, each destination offers a unique hiking experience. With spring just around the corner, let the daffodils guide you en route – and, be rewarded with gorgeous pink hues painting the sky with sunset stretching past 6pm. There’s no better time to tick off a few of our favourite trails!

Did you know? Many of our pubs are South West Coast Path Waymakers, and can stamp your SWCP Passport! 

Spring walks in Cornwall

Sennen Cove & Land’s End Loop, Sennen

Distance: 3 miles, additional extension to Nanjizal

Time: Roughly 1 hour, extension to 2

Difficulty: Moderate - Difficult

With breathtaking scenery, historic points of interest along the route, and an iconic view waiting for you at the end of your adventure, this walk is perfect for those seeking a quintessentially Cornish hike. Take it at your own pace, with the option to return to Sennen via multiple routes – you can even catch the bus for a more relaxed journey back.

If you’re craving a little more adventure, continue from Land’s End to the magical cove of Nanjizal – while a little off the beaten track, it’s well worth the trek to discover this untouched gem. It's dog-friendly year-round and the perfect spot for playful pooches to splash amongst the waves. 

Refuel on your return at the Old Success, sitting in prime position overlooking Sennen Cove. Enjoying gorgeous coastal views, particularly at sunset, what better place to order a refreshing pint of korev and take advantage of the early spring sunshine?

Bodmin Camel Trail to Padstow, Bodmin

Distance: 7.2 miles

Time: 2.5-3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Bodmin’s famed Camel Trail, taking you all the way to Padstow – this is one walk you have to try! Following the old railroad route, meaning it’s relatively flat throughout, spot birds along your way through picturesque woodland, before enjoying views across the sea to the horizon. Pressed for time? Hire a bike in Bodmin, and cycle the route instead.

With not one, but two pubs on route – you’ll be spoilt for choice. Stop by the Old Custom House, a beautiful pub in Padstow for stunning views across the harbour before your return journey, or settle in after the full hike at the Borough Arms in Bodmin.

* Note, path surfaces can be affected by the weather so always check the forecast ahead of time in case of a little Cornish mizzle!

Newham Trail, Truro

Distance: 2-4 miles

Time: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

There are two variations of this trail, the first a little shorter sitting at the 2-mile mark and beginning at Gas Hill, or extending with a stroll through the city centre. Pack a picnic, and enjoy with all the family – the Newham Trail is the perfect Sunday stroll. Accessible year-round, with sweeping valley views starting to bloom, overhanging trees and finishing up with stunning views of Truro River, add this peaceful hike to your list.

While in Truro, why not stop off at the beautiful County Arms? Tuck into a spring Sunday roast, lovingly cooked to perfection, after getting your steps for the day in.

Crantock to Fistral, Newquay

Distance: 2 miles

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

If you prefer a little more variety to your walks, then look no further than the walk between Crantock and Fistral. From a sleepy coastal village to a vibrant, dedicated surfer's town – this hike has it all, just be sure to check the tide times before setting off. Or, why not cross the Gannel via the Fern Pit ferry instead?

Walking through Newquay, you’ll be spoilt for choice for food options, from the Fort Inn to the Great Western – and to top it all off, you can enjoy stunning views of the spring surf with both pubs positioned over some of the most iconic Cornish beaches too.

Spring walks in Devon

Branscombe to Beer, Branscombe

Distance: 6 miles

Length: 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Finally, to round off our top picks for spring walks in the South West, we come to the beautiful village of Branscombe. Here, you’ll find Branscombe Beach with the Jurassic Coast offering bewitching views that stretch for miles on end – a sight you’ll never get tired of seeing! Take to the coast path and make your way towards the quaint village of Beer, a gorgeous little fishing village – perfect for braving a dip if the spring sunshine shows its face!

Loop back to the Masons Arms in Branscombe and sink into comfort, hunker down post-hike with a much-deserved meal, paired perfectly with a refreshing pint of korev, or Tribute. Why not extend your adventure? Wake in the countryside, and experience a truly quintessential Devonshire morning before embarking on your journey.

Further afield...

Lyme Regis to Charmouth Walk, Lyme Regis

Distance: 5 miles

Time: 2-2.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

If you’ve ever wanted to combine fossil collecting with your hike, look no further than Lyme Regis, and embark on a medium-length coastal loop of 5 miles. With signposts throughout to keep you on the right path, it’s impossible to get lost – just be sure to time your return with the tide, as beach access is limited at high.

This route truly provides the best of both worlds, with part of the route taking you through Timber Hill Woods. With the countdown to spring well and truly on, this is one of our favourite spring walks in Dorset, with the woodland floor carpeted by bluebells.

After completing your route, head back to the Rock Point and hunker down into a window seat overlooking the harbour. Discuss your findings and share your photos over a pint of Tribute – the perfect ending to your hike.