Saints' Way Cornwall
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Saints' Way Cornwall

4.2
·6 reviews·Tywardreath, United Kingdom

An ancient 28-mile pilgrimage route across Cornwall, connecting Padstow to Fowey, rich in history and stunning landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Saints' Way Cornwall

Saints' Way Cornwall

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An ancient 28-mile pilgrimage route across Cornwall, connecting Padstow to Fowey, rich in history and stunning landscapes.

4.2
(6 reviews)

"A truly rewarding walk, treading in the footsteps of pilgrims through beautiful Cornish countryside."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Get a Good Map

A reliable Saints Way Cornwall route map is essential for navigation. Don't rely solely on phone signal.

👟 Sturdy Walking Boots

Varied terrain means good footwear is key. Expect mud, hills, and uneven paths.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Helman Tor

Helman Tor

Near Lanivet

Ascend this iconic tor for breathtaking panoramic views of the Cornish landscape. A must-see viewpoint.

Instagram
Padstow Charm

Padstow Charm

Northern Terminus

Start or end your journey in the picturesque fishing town of Padstow, known for its culinary delights and harbor.

Instagram
Fowey Estuary Views

Fowey Estuary Views

Southern Terminus

Experience the scenic beauty of the Fowey estuary, a charming coastal town offering a rewarding end to your trek.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Coast-to-Coast Trail

The Saints' Way is a 28-mile ancient pilgrimage route across Cornwall, from Padstow to Fowey. Plan for at least 2-3 days of walking, or tackle it in a single, challenging day if you're an experienced ultra-runner. Accommodation options vary, so book in advance, especially during peak season. Instagram

Navigating the Saints' Way

While marked, the Saints' Way can be challenging. Sections include trails, roads, woodland, and hills. Download a reliable Saints Way Cornwall route map or guidebook. Be prepared for varied terrain and weather. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Walking with Rev. Cheryl along the Saints Way in Cornwall, England.
christchurchgreenwich
38 likes • 398 views

🗺️ Get a Good Map

A reliable Saints Way Cornwall route map is essential for navigation. Don't rely solely on phone signal. InstagramReddit

👟 Sturdy Walking Boots

Varied terrain means good footwear is key. Expect mud, hills, and uneven paths. InstagramReddit

Have you walked the Saints Way? #Saintsway #walkingincornwall #cornwall #walkingwithfriends #cornishwalks
walking_in_cornwall_
2 likes • 133 views
The Saints Way: another great event by @purplegeckoevents. 28 miles from one side of Cornwall to the other. Lots of trails, roads (a bit too much of this for my liking), woodland tracks and hills (the last hill is a stinker). It was brilliant to run the whole thing with Kriszti and Lisa for Kriszti’s first marathon and ultra. Also great to start the event with loads of folk I know through parkrun,...
och_aye_the_knead
35 likes • 442 views

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Hydration is crucial, especially on longer stretches. Refill points can be scarce. Reddit

🏠 Book Accommodation Early

Accommodation on the Saints Way Cornwall fills up fast, especially in Padstow and Fowey. InstagramReddit

Had an amazing time @paradisecollectivecic living in tune with nature, beautiful meadow, open kitchen, sauna & jacuzzi, yurts for workshops and accommodation on the Saints Way. #outdoorliving #naturelover #hikingadventures #saintswaycornwall #cornwall #wellbeingretreat #padstowcornwall #outdooradventure
surfwalker1
6 likes • 151 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Get a Good Map

A reliable Saints Way Cornwall route map is essential for navigation. Don't rely solely on phone signal. InstagramReddit

👟 Sturdy Walking Boots

Varied terrain means good footwear is key. Expect mud, hills, and uneven paths. InstagramReddit

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Hydration is crucial, especially on longer stretches. Refill points can be scarce. Reddit

🏠 Book Accommodation Early

Accommodation on the Saints Way Cornwall fills up fast, especially in Padstow and Fowey. InstagramReddit

🐄 Be Cow-Aware!

You'll likely encounter livestock. Give them space and be respectful of their fields. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(6 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Saints Way for its beautiful scenery and historical significance, offering a rewarding pilgrimage experience. The charming villages and varied landscapes are highlights, though some find the road sections less appealing. Overall, it's a highly recommended walk for those seeking an authentic Cornish adventure. Reddit

"We had a most enjoyable stay at this lovely holiday home. The house was very welcoming and spotless.

The only thing we would mention is perhaps there would be more serving dishes. Great pub just down the road.

We will most certainly be re-booking."

Jayne Davies

"5 Star holiday cottage.Brilliant for families with children & dogs.Fantastic local amenities e.g.sandy dog friendly beach at Par.Good local pubs for both ales & food.Highly recommended."

Ian Perkins

"Great holiday cottage, lovely village, pub just down road. near Par Beach & Fowey. Loved location"

ben gulliver

What People Like

Beautiful Cornish scenery
Historical pilgrimage route
Charming villages

What People Dislike

Too many road sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Saints' Way starts in Padstow. You can reach Padstow by car, with parking available, or via public transport, including bus services. Many visitors also arrive by train to nearby Bodmin Parkway and then take a bus or taxi. InstagramReddit

The Saints Way itself is the walking route! For getting to the start or from the end, consider local bus services that connect Padstow and Fowey, or arrange a taxi. Some accommodations offer shuttle services. InstagramReddit

Yes, both Padstow and Fowey are accessible by bus. However, sections of the walk itself may be remote, so planning your transport to and from trailheads is important. InstagramReddit

You can drive to various points along the Saints Way Cornwall route to access different sections for day hikes. However, the trail itself is for walking and cycling in designated areas. Instagram

The nearest major train station to the Saints Way is Bodmin Parkway. From there, you'll need to arrange onward travel to Padstow or Fowey. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Saints Way is a public footpath and does not require tickets for entry. It's a free-to-access ancient route. Instagram

The walk itself is free. However, you may incur costs for parking, public transport, accommodation, and food along the route. Reddit

The Saints Way is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor trail. However, it's best to walk during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

There isn't a dedicated visitor center for the Saints Way. Information can be found at local tourist information points in Padstow and Fowey, and through guidebooks. Instagram

Yes, several event organizers and local guides offer guided walks and running events along the Saints Way. Check for local listings and event companies like Purple Gecko Events. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Walking the entire 28-mile Saints Way Cornwall can take 2-3 days for most hikers. Experienced ultra-runners can complete it in a single day. Instagram

The terrain is varied, including coastal paths, country lanes, woodland tracks, and some challenging hills. Be prepared for mud, especially after rain. Instagram+1

The full 28-mile route is challenging for young children. However, shorter sections can be enjoyed as day hikes. The area around Par Beach is family-friendly. Reddit

You can expect to see farm animals like cows, sheep, and horses. Birdlife is abundant, and you might spot seals along the coast. Instagram

Yes, there are villages with pubs and cafes along the route, particularly in areas like Padstow and Fowey. Some sections are more remote, so carrying snacks is advisable. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Padstow is renowned for its food scene, with many excellent restaurants and cafes. Fowey also offers great dining options. Villages along the route often have traditional pubs. InstagramReddit

Yes, several villages along the Saints Way have welcoming pubs offering food and drinks. It's a great way to refuel and experience local hospitality. Reddit

Absolutely! Cream teas are a Cornish tradition and readily available in many cafes and pubs along or near the Saints Way. Instagram

Yes, the varied landscape offers numerous beautiful spots for picnics, especially with the scenic views from places like Helman Tor. Instagram

Padstow offers a wide range of dining, from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual seafood shacks and bakeries. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning landscapes from Helman Tor, charming coastal towns like Padstow and Fowey, and the rolling Cornish countryside. Don't forget the ancient churches along the way. Instagram+1

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to local regulations and landowner permission. Always check before flying. Some creators have used drones for aerial shots. Instagram

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions. Instagram

Most churches are open to visitors and photography, but it's always respectful to be mindful of services or private events. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The full 28-mile Saints Way is likely too strenuous for young children, but shorter sections can be perfect for family day trips. Consider walking between villages with good amenities or focusing on accessible parts like the area near Par Beach, which is known for being family-friendly and dog-friendly. Reddit

Look for sections with interesting landmarks, like Helman Tor for a bit of an adventure and great views, or the charming towns of Padstow and Fowey for a rewarding destination. Pack plenty of snacks and make it a fun exploration rather than a race against time. Instagram+1

🚶 Solo Adventurers

The Saints Way offers a fantastic opportunity for solo reflection and connection with nature. Many solo walkers find the route safe and well-marked, allowing for a peaceful journey. TikTokInstagram

Ensure you have a reliable map and communication device. Consider staying in B&Bs or guesthouses in villages along the route to meet fellow travelers and enjoy local hospitality. The sense of accomplishment after completing sections or the entire trail is immense. Instagram

🏃 Trail Runners

For experienced trail runners, the Saints Way presents an exhilarating challenge. The 28-mile route can be tackled as an ultra-marathon, with events often organized by companies like Purple Gecko Events. Instagram+1

The varied terrain, from woodland paths to hilly ascents, provides an excellent test of endurance and skill. Be prepared for technical sections and plan your hydration and nutrition carefully for such a demanding run. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of the Saints' Way

The Saints' Way is more than just a walking trail; it's an ancient pilgrimage route with deep historical roots. Believed to have been used by early Christian missionaries and pilgrims traveling between Ireland and continental Europe, the route connects numerous ancient churches and holy sites across Cornwall. The 28-mile path from Padstow on the north coast to Fowey on the south coast offers a journey through centuries of history and spirituality. TikTokInstagram

Walking the Saints' Way allows you to tread in the footsteps of those who have made this journey for over a thousand years. The route passes through diverse landscapes, from windswept tors and rolling farmland to charming villages and coastal estuaries. Each section tells a story, with ancient standing stones, medieval churches, and remnants of Cornwall's rich past dotting the landscape. It's an opportunity to connect with the land and its history in a profound way. Instagram+1

Planning Your Saints Way Cornwall Route

When planning your Saints Way Cornwall adventure, consider your fitness level and available time. The full 28-mile route is a significant undertaking, often best split over 2-3 days to fully appreciate the scenery and history. Many walkers opt for day hikes on specific sections, such as the popular stretch around Helman Tor or the coastal views near Fowey. Instagram+1

For a comprehensive experience, a Saints Way Cornwall map or a detailed guidebook is invaluable. These resources highlight points of interest, potential hazards, and accommodation options. Popular overnight stops include villages with B&Bs or inns. If you're looking for a unique stay, consider accommodation on the Saints Way Cornwall itself, offering direct access to the trail. Instagram+1

Remember to check weather forecasts and pack accordingly. The Cornish weather can be unpredictable, so layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear are essential. For those seeking a guided experience, organized events and tours are available, offering a structured way to tackle the Saints Way walk. Instagram+1

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