Winter in Cornwall is a chilly and atmospheric season, and the scenic walks lose none of their charm. If you’re looking for the perfect family friendly trails, we’ve got 7 winter walks for you.
Make sure to wrap up warm, wear sensible shoes, and always pack a snack and some water to stay hydrated.
widemouth bay beach
The Trails of Cardinham Woods
Near Bodmin Cornwall, this forest walk offers a range of different overlapping trails. With great signage and mapping, you can pick your path for a difficulty level to suit the family. When you’re done with taking in the woods in winter time, head straight to the Woods Cafe for snacks, treats, and hot drinks to keep the family warm.
- Estimated Mileage: 1.5–12 miles (depending on chosen trail)
- Elevation Difficulty: Easy to Medium (gentle trails with some moderate inclines)
Marazion to Penzance Promenade
Perfect for a family friendly day out, this walk is a mostly flat coastal route for wintery ocean views. You and your family will follow the South West Coast path in an area known for its natural beauty and long history. As you walk, you can see incredible views of St Michael’s Mount out on the water, one of Cornwall’s most well known sites. An easy and gorgeous walk this winter.
Estimated Mileage: 2 miles (one way)
Elevation Difficulty: Easy (minimal elevation with well-trodden paths)
Larmona Cove to Mousehole
This shorter, family-friendly walk begins at Lamorna Cove Beach, a picturesque spot surrounded by rugged cliffs and the peaceful sound of waves. From here, the path takes you along the South West Coast Path, offering stunning sea views over dramatic cliffs and secluded coves. You’ll pass hidden gems before approaching the charming fishing village of Mousehole.
Mousehole itself is a highlight, with its quaint harbour, cobbled streets, and cozy pubs perfect for warming up with a meal after your walk. This easy-going route is ideal for families and offers a taste of Cornwall’s coastal beauty, all in a manageable and scenic stroll.
Estimated Mileage: 2 miles (one way)
Elevation Difficulty: Easy (minimal elevation with well-trodden paths)
Padstow Harbour and Coast Path
A stunning harbour walk, this is for a family that loves the coast. Following the coastal path you’ll be greeted with beautiful winter views and peaceful beach moments to take in Cornish winter. Kicking off in Padstow, you and the family will be in a top rated Cornish town to grab lunch before you head off. Proper job.
Estimated Mileage: 3–4 miles (circular route or out-and-back)
Elevation Difficulty: Easy to Medium (some gentle inclines along the coast)
Tintagel and Barras Nose
This walk is an easy scenic route on the North Cornwall coast. The trail is a family friendly circular walk, so you’ll come out right where you started. Explore the coast line for glorious cliffside views and don’t forget to watch out for the beautiful birds that populate the area. Dogs are welcome too as long as they’re on a leash, and as a popular route you’ll be sure to make some friends on your way.
Estimated Mileage: 1.5–2 miles (circular walk)
Elevation Difficulty: Easy (slight gradients but family-friendly terrain)
Mother Ivey’s Bay and Booby’s Bay Circular
We recommend bringing a camera along for this one, located in the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Generally considered an easy family friendly hike, this one is perfect for taking in the wintery sights of Cornwall for a couple of hours. Be sure to pack a picnic and blanket as there are loads of great spots to sit and relax with your family along the route. We always bring a thermos of hot tea or cocoa with us to stay warm while we take in the sites. And watch out for dolphins!
Estimated Mileage: 2–3 miles
Elevation Difficulty: Easy (level paths with occasional small slopes)
Sennen Cove to Lands End Walk
Easy and short, this winter walk is perfect for the family to take in the South West coastal views and stunning cliffs. While not entirely flat, it’s not too taxing where it elevates so it’s still nice and accessible for younger or older walkers. There are plenty of sites to see on your way down the path, from Enys Dodman Rock Arch to the Lands End signpost at the very westernmost point in the whole of England (though there is a fee to take a picture). A classic Cornish walk.
Estimated Mileage: 1.5–2 miles (one way)
Elevation Difficulty: Easy (some mild elevation changes)
