Walkmates
Walk
Route by PaulWalkmates
Save the route to find it later. Follow it to hear when a date is added.
This is a dramatic coastal walk that rewards you with big views and a real sense of exposure, but it is not a gentle outing. From the moment you leave Ropehaven, the path commits to the cliff edge and stays close to it for much of the route.
The trail is narrow in places and often uneven, with steep drops straight down to the sea. The views are excellent, stretching along the Cornish coast and out across the Channel, but they come with a need for constant awareness underfoot. Around Black Head, the walk feels at its most exposed, with high cliffs, tight paths, and very little room for mistakes.
Conditions underfoot matter a lot here. After rain, sections of the path can become muddy and slippery, especially where the ground is worn or shaded. Even in dry weather, the surface is rough and narrow in places. Appropriate footwear is essential, as this is not a route suited to trainers or smooth-soled shoes.
There is a brief inland section that offers some relief from the exposure before the route returns toward Ropehaven, but the overall character remains one of focus rather than relaxation. This is a walk to do when the weather is settled, the ground is dry, and you are happy paying attention to every step.
It is a rewarding route for those who enjoy dramatic coastlines, but it demands respect. Narrow paths, mud, and exposure are all part of the deal, and going prepared makes all the difference.
Use the route details to plan your walk
If the map image does not load, the route description and starting-point details are still on this page.
The interactive map will load when you reach this section.
Start when you're ready and add the walk to your history. No group date needed.
This is a dramatic coastal walk that rewards you with big views and a real sense of exposure, but it is not a gentle outing. From the moment you leave Ropehaven, the path commits to the cliff edge and stays close to it for much of the route.
The saved map includes this introduction. Read the full route details and current access advice before walking.
For walkers
Watch: portrait video or landscape video.
Saved Walks needs an account. Reopening the website needs a connection; check access, weather and your own navigation before you go.
Not ready to pick a date? Follow it and you'll hear when somebody else does.
No commitment. You can follow it now and pick a date later.
Other routes starting close to this one
Explore more: More walks in St Austell Walks in Cornwall
A few things to know before you make plans.
You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.
Choose Put a date on this walk to organise a group walk. Not ready to choose a day? Follow the route for scheduling updates, or save it for later.
The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.
Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.
Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.
Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.
Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.
Necessary storage keeps Walkmates working. With your permission, Google Analytics, Mixpanel and Simple Analytics help us understand how the site is used. Optional analytics stay off until you choose.
