If you’re like us, you love a long scenic walk followed by a tipple and a plate of something hearty! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of conquering the coast path before rewarding yourself with a well-earned pint.

Cornwall is a walker’s paradise, that’s no secret, but sometimes it can be tricky to scope out new routes without a bit of local guidance. That’s where we come in! We’ve listed a few of our top picks for those staying in Newquay and North Cornwall. 

Discover our fave walks that end at a pub below!

This classic coastal walk offers breathtaking views – not to mention a healthy dose of fresh air! You can reward yourself with a pint at either the historic Albion or the cosy Cornishman. 

Start in West Pentire, there are a few signposted entrances that take you down to the River Gannel. Once you’re down there, you’ll see the footbridge that takes you across to the other side. Make sure you check the tide times for this, as it won’t be possible to cross if the tide is high! Look for the rope swing on the west side of the Gannel and find the slip road that leads up into Crantock Village. (When you get to the top of the slip, turn right, not left!)

Once you’ve followed the road down into the village you’ll find two fab options. The Cornishman is an excellent option for live music, with free admission for all. This pub is a regular haunt for The Old Time Sailors – an amazing, high energy sea shanty band that must be seen to be believed! They also do excellent food and a pub quiz every Thursday. 

The Albion is a traditional thatched pub that has stood for over 400 years. Cosy on the inside with a terraced beer garden on the outside, it retains the character and ambiance of a village pub, steeped in history and serving up some lovely grub and ale! There’s even an old smugglers tunnel hidden behind the fireplace. 

Feeling adventurous? After refueling, drop back on to the coast path – which you’ll find to the left just past the pubs. The path can be followed to Porth Joke beach (a great spot for seal watching!) and along the dramatic clifftop to Holywell Bay. You’ll know when you’ve reached Holywell as the iconic Gull Rock will be standing majestically in the bay.

In Holywell, we recommend The Treguth Inn – this little local pub dates back to the 13th Century, with a lovely thatched roof and cosy, traditional interior.

This one-way coastal walk is an excellent choice for those who like to explore beaches. Wait until low tide and start at Newquay harbour – walk along the sand following the shoreline as you cover Towan Beach, Great Western and Tolcarne Beach. Once on Tolcarne, head up the steps or the slope and head across the Barrowfields – a beautiful clifftop greenspace that looks out over the horizon.

Follow the coast path to Porth Beach – a narrow stretch of sand between the two parallel headlands. You can stop here for a pitstop at the Mermaid Inn before you head up the hill to rejoin the coast path along to Watergate Bay.

Once in Watergate Bay, head to WAX. This trendy pub/bar/eatery enjoys fabulous sea views and an excellent menu. Grab a drink and enjoy the fresh air on the terrace before heading back to Newquay, by foot or by bus!

For a more inland adventure, explore the picturesque Cubert area. This is a great route if you want to avoid the crowds, no matter the season. It’s also a great choice for those with nervous or reactive dogs. 

Park at Cubert Common by the village hall and head through the churchyard and out the gate, to your left. Cross the road and you’ll see a small sign pointing you down a public footpath. Follow it until you emerge onto a huge open field. Keep right on the field to come to a kissing gate which leads through the trees and out onto the road at the bottom. Turn right here and through the long wooden gate on your left. This leads you through a marshy valley with a river flowing through. Follow this peaceful path over the 7 wooden bridges that open out – through another kissing gate – into a glorious meadow. 

Follow the path until you come to the other side, which opens out onto the road. Head left for a few meters and then turn left over the bridge. Brace yourself for the hill immediately after, safe in the knowledge that you’re almost at the pub! 

Follow the road for about 10 minutes and you’ll reach The Smugglers Den Inn. This is one of our favourites! A 16th Century thatched pub with fantastic traditional interiors. You’ll find various indoor and outdoor seating areas – courtyards, decking, beer garden and children’s play area. 

To get back to your car, turn left down the straight road from the pub until you come back to the bottom of the first field. Go back on yourself from here to Cubert Common and back through the churchyard.

The stretch of coastline between Perranporth and Porthtowan is a clifftop paradise. Easy to find and follow, this section of the South West Coast Path is a masterpiece of dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and sandy beaches. As you journey along the path, keep an eye out for the remnants of the area’s mining history, a fascinating chapter in Cornwall’s story. You’ll go right by Wheal Coates, standing right on the path and facing the horizon head on, a spectacular site.

The walk is moderately challenging, with a mix of uphill climbs and coastal paths. You’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the coastline, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle. Take your time to explore, spot wildlife, and soak up the incredible scenery.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the charming village of Porthtowan awaits. The iconic Unicorn pub is the perfect place to eat! With its effortlessly cool atmosphere and (seriously) delicious food, it’s the ideal spot to relax and recount your walking adventures as the sea laps the shore in the background.