The best running trails around Cornwall

Cornwall offers a wide variety of running routes. This guide features 10 curated routes, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for all fitness levels. The region itself boasts an extensive network of trails, including the South West Coast Path, Bodmin Moor, and the Camel Trail, providing countless opportunities for exploration.

Yes, Cornwall has several easy running options. The Running loop from Charlottetown is an easy route. The Camel Trail, a disused railway line, is particularly well-suited for beginners and families due to its mostly flat terrain and picturesque views alongside the estuary. Sections of the South West Coast Path, such as the one from Porthleven to Loe Bar, are also relatively flat and pushchair-friendly.

Cornwall's running trails offer incredibly diverse terrain. You can experience dramatic coastal paths with varying elevations, wild moorlands with granite tors on Bodmin Moor, and tranquil river valleys. There are also flat, multi-use trails like the Camel Trail, and opportunities for beach running at low tide on beaches such as Hayle Beach or Perranporth Beach.

Yes, for those seeking a scenic run with waterfalls, the Golitha Falls, located within Bodmin Moor, is a spectacular spot. It features a series of waterfalls and cascades along the River Fowey, set within ancient oak woodland. Another magical location is St Nectan's Glen near Boscastle, known for its 60ft waterfall cascading through a circular hole.

Absolutely. Many of Cornwall's trails offer circular options, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Running loop from RCMP L Division Headquarters is a moderate circular route. The region's extensive network, especially around headlands and moorlands, provides ample opportunities to create or find circular running loops.

Cornwall's running routes often pass by stunning natural and historical landmarks. You might encounter dramatic coastlines like Hell's Mouth near Godrevy or the iconic Bedruthan Steps. Geological formations such as Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula or Logan Rock at Treen are also highlights. For historical interest, Kit Hill offers ancient burial mounds and insights into mining history. You can also explore highlights like St. Dunstan's Basilica Cathedral or the vibrant area of Charlottetown.

Many trails in Cornwall are dog-friendly, especially those away from protected wildlife areas or livestock. The Camel Trail is a popular choice for runners with dogs. When running on coastal paths or moorlands, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near cliffs or where livestock may be present, and to check local signage for any restrictions.

The running routes in Cornwall are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners frequently praise the region's breathtaking coastal scenery, the variety of terrain from flat estuary paths to challenging moorland climbs, and the sense of immersion in nature. The well-maintained trails and the opportunity to discover hidden gems are also often highlighted.

Yes, Cornwall is rich in beautiful estuaries and river valleys perfect for running. The Camel Trail follows the Camel estuary, offering picturesque views. Areas like the Fal Estuary and Helford River provide enchanting waterlands with creeks and diverse routes. Trelissick Gardens, situated on the Fal estuary, also offers a memorable parkrun course with gorgeous views.

For those seeking a challenge, Cornwall certainly delivers. Sections of the South West Coast Path can be very demanding with significant elevation changes. On Bodmin Moor, tackling climbs like Brown Willy, Cornwall's highest peak, offers a rewarding challenge with expansive views. The Arterial Highway Crossing loop from Charlottetown is also classified as a difficult route, covering over 22 km.

Beyond the coast, Cornwall offers serene woodland and park running experiences. Coosebean Woods near Truro provides winding paths, while the Pentewan Trail (also known as Kings Wood) offers a flat, mixed-terrain route alongside the St Austell River. Godolphin Estate also hosts monthly running trails, providing a beautiful setting for 5k and 10k distances.

Cornwall is an excellent destination for long-distance and trail running. The extensive South West Coast Path provides hundreds of miles of continuous trail, offering varied and challenging sections for endurance runners. Inland, Bodmin Moor's vastness and trails like the Bissoe Trail (a coast-to-coast route) also cater to longer runs, allowing for significant mileage and exploration.