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South West Coast Path (Section 17: Newquay to Perranporth)

HardEngland · United Kingdom

GPX
Distance
22.2 km (13.8 mi)
Elevation gain
489 m (1,604 ft)
Typical time
5 hr 35 min
Difficulty
Hard
Route type
Point to point
Highest point
Not recorded

About South West Coast Path (Section 17: Newquay to Perranporth)

South West Coast Path (Section 17: Newquay to Perranporth) is a 22.2 km hiking route in England, United Kingdom. It climbs roughly 489 m (1,604 ft) along the way. Most people take around 5 hr 35 min at a comfortable pace, plus stops. This is a demanding day. The climbing is sustained and the descent is long enough to punish tired knees.

The coastline does the heavy lifting: cliff edges, coves and open horizon for most of the way.

It runs point to point, so arrange transport at the far end or plan a return leg before you set off. It is not consistently waymarked, so carry a map or a downloaded track rather than relying on signs.

It walks well across three seasons, with spring and autumn offering the best combination of light, temperature and quiet paths. The nearest town of any size is Redruth, about 19.5 km away, which is where most people base themselves. The route is maintained by National Trails.

In short, South West Coast Path (Section 17: Newquay to Perranporth) suits fit hikers with a habit of long days and an eye on the forecast. Dog access is not formally recorded here, so check locally before bringing one.

Route map

Hard22.2 km489 m

Numbered marks every 5 km

Route line from OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL. View the source relation

The route in detail

The route is normally walked in the direction described below. The first third does most of the climbing, so settle into a slow rhythm early rather than trying to hold a flat-ground pace. Because the finish is away from the start, check return transport before committing to the second half.

Highlights

  • Coastal

Know before you go

Best season
April to October
Waymarked
Not consistently
Surface
Mixed natural surface
Dogs
Not recorded, check locally
Wheelchair access
Not accessible
Entrance fee
No fee recorded
Camping
Not recorded
Drinking water
Carry your own
Toilets
Not recorded
Mobile coverage
Generally usable
Parking
Park at the trailhead, arrive early in high season
Emergency
112 in Europe, 911 in North America

How this trail scores

Computed from distance, ascent, terrain features, surface and access data.

Scenery
51/100

Terrain features, relief and photographic interest

Adventure
40/100

Distance, ascent and how wild the ground is

Difficulty
65/100

Effort index from distance and climbing

Accessibility
21/100

Surface, gradient and ease of reaching it

Family
12/100

Suitability for children who already walk

Dogs
62/100

Access rules, terrain and water along the way

Tips from the trail

  • Start at first light. A long day is far more pleasant when you are not racing the sunset on the descent.
  • Aim for april to october for the most reliable conditions.
  • Check the tide table if any part of the route runs along the beach.
  • Download the track to your phone before you leave. Signal is not guaranteed.
  • Leave nothing behind, including fruit peel, and stay on the marked line to protect the ground either side.

Warnings

  • This route is long and sustained. Turn back early rather than late if the weather closes in.
  • Cliff edges may be unfenced and undercut. Keep well back from the drop, especially in wind.
  • Outside the main season expect snow, ice or closed access on the higher sections.

Safety

Emergency services in United Kingdom are reached on 999. Tell someone your route and expected finish time before you set off, particularly if you are walking alone. Mobile coverage is generally usable along this route, but do not rely on it as your only plan. If the weather deteriorates, descending the way you came is almost always the safer option.

What to bring

  • Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes or boots
  • Weatherproof jacket
  • At least 1.5 litres of water
  • Offline map and compass
  • Head torch and spare battery
  • Extra warm layer
  • Sun hat, sunglasses and high-factor sun cream
  • Real food, not just snacks
  • Small first aid kit including blister plasters

Photography

Golden hour along the cliffs is the obvious call, and a slow shutter on the water at the base of the rocks adds movement. Take the shot on the way out. Conditions rarely improve by the time you come back past. A wide lens captures the scale, but a short telephoto is what turns a good view into a photograph.

Frequently asked questions

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