The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Chacewater
4.6
(1118)
11,102
hikers
23
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Chacewater are characterized by a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural Cornish landscapes. The region features rolling hills, valleys carved by the Carnon River, and a mix of farmland and woodland, providing varied scenery for outdoor exploration. Hikers can explore remnants of the area's copper mining history, including well-preserved engine houses and old mining chimneys, alongside tranquil country lanes. The network of paths offers a range of options for different fitness levels.
Best family…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
5.0
(6)
21
hikers
5.62km
01:31
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
hikers
2.94km
00:46
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
33
hikers
10.7km
02:44
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
27
hikers
4.40km
01:07
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
10.1km
02:42
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Wheal Busy forms part of the World Heritage Site through its importance to tin and copper mining during the 18th and 19th centuries and is also one of the historic mine sites on the Mineral Tramways Coast to Coast Trail, which links Devoran in the south with Portreath to the north. The extensive conservation work at Wheal Busy was facilitated by Natural England’s land management team in Cornwall, working in partnership with the landowners the Tregothnan Estate. The works were funded through a Higher-Level Stewardship agreement. Wheal Busy is thought to have its origins in the latter 1600s and during the following two centuries the mine was to experience important innovations in steam pumping technology. A Newcomen Atmospheric Engine was put to work by around 1726 and a Smeaton improved atmospheric engine was on site by the latter 1770s. The renowned Scottish engineer James Watt was also to personally oversee the installation of the first Boulton & Watt separate condenser engine to work in Cornwall, which started in September 1777. You can find more information about the conservation of this Engine House using the following link: https://www.cornishmining.org.uk/conservation/projects/2015-wheal-busy-scheduled-monument-conservation
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The remains of the bases for Californian stamps are among the most prominent remnants at Poldice Mine. These machines crushed ore-bearing rocks into fine sand, contributing to significant noise across the valley. Unlike traditional Cornish stamps, Californian stamps operated more rapidly and thoroughly, with each stamp head capable of crushing 1.5 tons of ore daily compared to the one ton processed by Cornish stamps.
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In tin production, ore was roasted above 300°C to remove impurities such as sulphur and arsenic which otherwise made the cast tin brittle. If arsenic was desired, fumes from the calciner passed through a long flue known as a 'lambreth' or labyrinth, where the gas cooled and condensed, forming arsenic crystals on the walls. When sufficient had collected, the calciners were stopped, iron doors in the lambreth were opened, and the arsenic ‘soot’ was swept off the walls and shovelled out. Workers put wads of cotton wool in their nostrils and a cloth over their mouths. and followed strict washing regulations, but still experienced skin irritations. Some workers were believed to have developed partial immunity, and folklore suggested arsenic improved complexion and hair condition. The lambreth had a tall stack at the end to create a strong through draught and also to reduce the damage caused by the noxious fumes.
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Built in 1897, this calciner was used to roast arsenic ore - check out the date above the archway. Arsenic gas was driven off by the heat and travelled towards the stack higher up the hill and through the labyrinth, or lambreth, where it condensed on the walls. See this link for a diagram of the Brunton roasting furnace with the revolving hearth upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/af/Brunton_roasting_furnace.png
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This is a welcome stop and popular with both hikers and cyclists.
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Impressive industrial remains, a great place to walk but note the warning signs related to the tailings from Mount Wellington, in the lagoons, which contain heavy metals and arsenic.
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Harbour of Devoran: nice view and seat for resting
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Everything a cyclist needs. Great food, great drinks and a selection of essential spares.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Chacewater?
There are 19 family-friendly hiking trails around Chacewater, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. These include 10 easy routes perfect for younger children or those seeking a gentle stroll, and 8 moderate trails for families looking for a bit more adventure.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, Chacewater offers several easy and short walks perfect for families with young children. For example, the Bike Chain Bissoe Café – Bon Appétit Café loop from Gwennap is an easy 2.9 km route that takes less than an hour, ideal for little legs. Another great option is the Carnon Viaduct – Lily Pond loop from Bissoe, which is 4.4 km and also considered easy.
What kind of landscapes can we expect to see on family hikes in Chacewater?
Family hikes in Chacewater offer a unique blend of natural Cornish landscapes and rich industrial heritage. You'll traverse rolling hills, explore steep-sided valleys carved by the Carnon River, and pass through a mix of farmland and woodlands. Many trails follow old miners' tracks, providing picturesque views and glimpses of historic engine houses and mining chimneys, characteristic of the Cornwall Mining World Heritage Site.
Are there any circular family walks available?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Chacewater are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. The Bike Chain Bissoe Café – Bon Appétit Café loop from Gwennap is a great example of an easy circular route. For a moderate option, consider the Carnon Viaduct – Lily Pond loop from Gwennap.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can we see along the family-friendly trails?
The trails around Chacewater are rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore remnants of the area's copper mining past, including well-preserved engine houses and old mining chimneys. Specific highlights include the impressive Carnon Viaduct, which you'll encounter on several routes. While not directly on these specific family trails, nearby attractions like Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool offer stunning viewpoints.
Are there any trails that pass by cafes or places to eat?
Yes, some trails are conveniently located near cafes. The Bike Chain Bissoe Café – Bon Appétit Café loop from Gwennap, for instance, starts and ends near the Bike Chain Bissoe Café, offering a perfect spot for refreshments before or after your hike. The region also has local pubs and cafes in nearby villages for a post-hike treat.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Chacewater?
The family-friendly trails around Chacewater are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of historic mining landscapes with tranquil countryside, the well-maintained paths suitable for families, and the opportunity to explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Are the family-friendly trails suitable for prams or strollers?
While many trails follow old miners' tracks and country lanes, the suitability for prams can vary. Generally, the 'easy' graded routes with lower elevation changes, such as the Bon Appétit Café – Poldice Mine Loop Stone Marker loop from Gwennap (4.7 km, easy), are more likely to be pram-friendly. However, it's always best to check the specific route details and surface conditions before heading out with a pram.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Chacewater?
Chacewater offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Even in winter, many paths are accessible, offering a different, often quieter, perspective on the historic landscapes, provided you dress appropriately for the weather.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes for older children or more active families?
Absolutely! For families looking for a longer adventure, the Old Mining Chimney and Ruins – Killifreth Engine House loop from Gwennap is a moderate 10.1 km route that takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes. This trail offers more challenging terrain while still being suitable for active families, showcasing significant mining heritage sites.
Where can we find parking for the family-friendly trails?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many routes, especially those starting from villages like Gwennap or Bissoe, will have designated parking areas or roadside parking options. It's advisable to check the specific tour details on komoot for parking information related to your chosen route.
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