Winter walks that end in a cosy pub
A n invigorating winter walk is best served with the reward of a beer beside the fire in a cosy pub.
From Cornwall’s dramatic coastal path to a secluded South Devon gem and a stretch of Dorset’s breath-taking Jurassic Coast, the following trails tick all the boxes for a memorable day out.
The sun hangs low during this magical time of year, casting a brilliant light that sparkles off breaking waves and cascades down craggy cliff faces. Take it all in and embrace the elements before rounding things off with a well-earned pint of award-winning beer and a bite to eat.
FOWEY TO COVINGTON WOOD
Havener’s is a stylish pub that looks out across Fowey’s charming waterside setting, where its namesake river meets the sea. Before you savour the delights inside, take a stroll from the town to Readymoney Cove. These sheltered golden sands lie on the doorstep of Covington Wood. Pass the house that was once home to Daphne du Maurier and follow the signs to Polkerris via Gribbin, stopping off at St Catherine’s Castle along the way.
Duration: 45m
Difficulty: 2/5
V isited in dark, cold January. Very welcoming, very friendly staff. Very good food - a hidden gem!
SENNEN COVE TO LAND'S END
The headland from Sennen Cove to Land’s End is peppered with iconic views. The waters are treacherous here, and an example of this is seen as you walk above the resting place of RMS Mulheim, which ran aground at Gamper Bay in 2003.
The coastal path continues from the shipwreck to an ancient cliff castle and onward to one of Cornwall’s most striking rock formations – the Enys Dodnan Arch. Head back to Old Success Inn and admire one of Sennen’s famous sunsets.
Duration: 1h 15m
Difficulty: 3/5
GOLDEN CAP TO LYME REGIS
Trek eastwards along the cliff tops from Lyme Regis to the south coast’s highest point. Golden Cap never fails to impress and, on a clear day, the far-reaching views here extend across Lyme Bay to Dartmoor.
The flat-topped cliffs really do shine a golden hue; forged from two ages of rock, they date back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The Rock Point nestles along Lyme Regis harbour and offers a wonderfully scenic place to replenish with quality food and drink.
Duration: 2h 15m
Difficulty: 4/5
F antastic location, great room with lovely views. Beautifully clean and comfortable, great facilities, lovely bathroom, wonderful breakfast, amazing staff, friendly and efficient. We had the most perfect stay and wouldn't hesitate to go back again.
ZENNOR TO ST IVES
West Cornwall boasts some of the finest slices of coastal path you’ll find anywhere. The route from St Ives to Zennor is among the most cherished, and for good reason. You’ll pass an abundance of wildlife that frequents deserted coves and seascapes that are never the same twice. Keep your eyes peeled for curious seals.
The Lifeboat Inn awaits back in St Ives, where you can gaze at the ebb and flow of the harbour after tucking into a sumptuous dish and a tipple or two.
Duration: 2h
Difficulty: 3/5
SALCOMBE TO HOPE COVE
This pub walk connects two of South Devon’s most beautiful destinations. Starting at Salcombe, along the Kingsbridge Estuary, chart your way west and pass the peaceful and ever-alluring Soar Mill Cove.
Stop off at this mesmerising, tucked-away patch of golden sand before continuing to Bolt Tail and around to Hope Cove. The latter hosts not one, but two serene beaches. It’s also where you’ll find the Hope & Anchor, a characterful hub for fine food and beer with a view.
Duration: 3h
Difficulty: 4/5