South West Coast Path - St Ives to Penzance Map and Itinerary

Arrive in St Ives

St Ives is a bustling fishing village with a wonderful harbour, winding narrow streets, art galleries, and plenty of restaurants. It is a 5 hour drive form London, alternatively you can fly to Plymouth or Exeter and take public transport. (see travel section)

St Ives to Zennor - 6m (10km)

As you head out of St Ives you will quickly leave the buzz behind as you follow the wild and rugged coastline south. Undulating paths on rough and demanding terrain make todays walk a strenuous one, but all worthwhile for the stunning views across the sea. Zennor is a small village which is a 10-15 walk inland from the coast, the local pub will be a welcoming sight after the walk today. The local museum is worth a visit which is dedicated to Cornish life from Prehistoric times.

Zennor to Pendeen - 7m (11km)

The stretch to Pendeen Watch can be challenging in parts, it passes some beautiful little coves to Gunnard’s Head which is a great stop for a picnic. The cliffs of Bosigran can be seen which are a favourite amongst rock climbers. At Pendeen Watch, visit the lighthouse in the afternoon before you head inland to Pendeen for your overnight accommodation.

Pendeen to Sennan Cove - 9m (14km)

There is loads to see on this section of the walk to Sennan Cove, with astounding views out to sea. Soon after leaving Pendeen you reach the remains of old tin and lead mines and then you reach the Iron Age Kenidjack Castle—a wonderful place to take a break and look at the views towards Cape Cornwall. The path doesn't go down to the Cape but its worth taking a detour to see the remains of St Helens Chapel. St Just is the next place on the map and is worth a detour if you are not stopping here, it is a thriving village with artists and is the most westerly town in the UK! From the Cape to Sennan Cove is a wonderful walk passing the sand dunes to Whitesands Bay. Honey coloured cliffs prevail and keep your eyes peeled as dolphins are a common sight. The route follows the dunes but alternatively you can take the beach until you reach the little village of Sennan Cove.

Sennan Cove to Porthcurno - 6m (9.5km)

A day of wonderful cliff top walking including walking to Lands End which is a real high point on the Coastal path. Remove from sight all the coach parties and the new shopping complex and keep your eyes on the coast path! Views from here can be seen across to all of the amazing rock formations - The armed Knight, The Irish lady and Dr Syntax head to name a few. Heading onwards follow the path past many coves and cliffs to the spectacularly located Minack Theatre at Porthcurno Bay. It is perched on top of the cliffs overlooking the bay and from here the steps lead down to the beach and the village. The bay is one of the most visited in Cornawall with its golden sands and turquoise waters.

Porthcurno to Penzance - 11m (17km)

From Porthcurno you will quickly reach Logan Rock which is a 70 tonne boulder that used to be rocked by pushing it! You pass many coves until you reach Lamorna which is one of the few wooded coves on the path. You will be delighted to find the café and the famous pub called the Lamorna Wink which used to be an illegal beer house! The next section of the walk is wooded and passes through a pine forest and then heads inland to Mousehole. From here to Penzance the walk follows a track mainly on tarmac. Soon you will be amougst the buzz of Penzance with its galleries and cafes lining the streets.

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