Looking for a coastal adventure with breathtaking views, hidden coves, and a sprinkling of Cornish charm? This circular walk around the Lizard Peninsula is a real gem. You can make it any length you need, from 4 to 15km. It’s easily shortened to suit all walking styles — whether you’re out for a short stroll or a full-day adventure.
We did it as a family and loved that we were never more than 20 minutes from the car — or an ice cream stop! It’s a brilliant route for all ages, with plenty of places to pause and take in the scenery.
Approximately 9 miles from Number 7, this is one of our favourite walks- stunning in the sunshine and with the prospect to be totally wild in cooler months.
🚗 Where to Park
We parked in the centre of Lizard Village, on the Green. Not only is it a convenient starting point, but it’s right across the road from a fantastic ice cream shop. Ideal motivation for the walk ahead (or a well-earned treat at the end!). 🍦
⛪ Down to Church Cove
From the Green, follow the signs down a peaceful country lane towards Church Cove. This hidden gem is postcard-pretty, with a quaint little slipway, colourful boats, and beautifully clear water shimmering in shades of blue and green. It’s an idyllic and peaceful start to the route. From Church Cove, turn right and ascend the cliff on the South West Coastal Path – the dramatic cliff top route gives both the lungs and your senses a workout!
🚤 The Lifeboat Station
Just along from Church Cove is the impressive Lizard Lifeboat Station, tucked into a dramatic cove. It’s well worth a visit — not just for its jaw-dropping setting, but for the stories of courage and community behind it. There’s a small viewing platform and sometimes volunteers on hand to share fascinating tales of local rescues. A shady, serene stop… until the steps back up to the coast path give your legs a proper wake-up call!
🌊 Along the Cliffs: Bass Point to Housel Bay
Rejoining the South West Coast Path, the walk continues around Bass Point and Pen Olver, offering sweeping views across the Atlantic. Expect wildflowers, wind-whipped headlands, and dramatic cliffs — pure Cornish magic.
Next stop is Housel Bay, a serene and often overlooked beach at the bottom of a deep valley. If you catch it at low tide, you’ll be rewarded with golden sand and inviting turquoise water. To reach the beach, turn left at the bottom of the valley and head down the steps.
📍 Lizard Point – The Southernmost Tip of Britain
Continue along the coast, passing the Lizard Lighthouse, and you’ll soon arrive at Lizard Point — the southernmost point of mainland Britain. It’s a breathtaking spot with rugged cliffs, soaring seabirds, and uninterrupted sea views. We made the most of the café here, enjoying milkshakes and chips with a view. Bliss.
🏖️ Pentreath Beach & Kynance Cove
About an hour further along the path, you’ll come to Pentreath Beach — wild, remote, and achingly beautiful. At the moment, the main steps down are inaccessible, so the only access is a steep scramble down loose rock. Worth the effort if you’re confident on your feet, but definitely one to approach with care.
A short walk on brings you to the showstopper: Kynance Cove. This is Cornwall’s Insta-famous darling — and for good reason. Its white sand, dramatic rock stacks, and impossibly clear water make it one of the most photographed spots in the UK. Expect crowds in summer, but the views are spectacular all year round (our recommendation is to enjoy Kynance at its best out of season and as the tide is heading to its lowest point). Be sure to head up to the viewpoint above the cove for that classic photo angle.
🥾 Back to Lizard Village
From the Kynance Cove car park, follow the lane inland. After about 500m, at the first sharp bend, take the footpath ahead across the fields. After a gentle 15-minute walk, you’ll arrive back in Lizard Village, perfectly placed for that second ice cream (you’ve earned it!).
If you’re looking to shorten the route, there are several well-marked paths from the coast back into the village at various points, making it easy to tailor the walk to your needs.
🌼 Final Thoughts
This Lizard Peninsula route is one of Cornwall’s finest — a walk that offers big views, quiet coves, wildlife encounters, and a touch of local history. Whether you’re in it for the scenery, the exercise, or the ice cream, this trail is packed with highlights and perfect for families, nature lovers, and day-trippers alike.
You might also enjoy some of our other blog posts/ideas for activities:
Porthcurno to Land’s End Walkhttps://number7incornwall.com/porthcurno-to-lands-end-adventure/
5 Top Swim Spots in the Helford