Falmouth and the surrounding area are packed with some of the best country and coastal walks in Cornwall.

These include the south west coastal footpath, the Helford River and a network of rural footpaths that will keep many a rambler happy. Many walks, such as the coastal path and walks around the north Helford, are on the doorstep of Pendra Loweth, while others are only a short drive away.

If you pick the coastal path, you’ll experience an undulating and varied landscape with wonderful views across the water and a variety of countryside through which to pass.

We have detailed a couple of local walks just to get you started. There is more information available from the Pendra Loweth office or by visiting www.walkingworld.com.

Pendra Loweth to Maenporth Beach

No trip to the Falmouth area is complete without a walk to Maenporth. Take the path down to the bottom of the park past the tennis courts and on to the bridlepath. Carry on until you reach the road and turn right, opposite Pennance Mill Farm, along the road until you reach Maenporth Beach. This is an easy walk along a country road, it will take approximately 20-30 minutes.

Pendra Loweth to Swanpool Beach and home again via Maenporth Beach.

This is a longer route than the walk above. Take the route described above down to Maenporth Beach and then bear left at the Maenporth Beach Cafe, onto the SW coast footpath, keeping the sea on your right. Take the path around the edge of the golf course where you will see beautiful views of the sea and cliffs. The path follows the coast as you approach Stack Point, which is covered in bluebells in the spring. Carry on along the path and you will see ahead of you Pendennis Castle perching above Falmouth, Falmouth Bay itself and the lighthouse at St Anthony's Head. The path dips and ends just above Swanpool Beach where you can walk down to the sandy lagoon beach and stop for refreshments or turn left and walk home. Your return journey is along the road, passing Falmouth Golf Course and a little further brings you out by the 'Pitch and Putt' at the T-junction above Pendra Loweth. Turn left here for home.

The walk takes about 1.30 hours; the footpath is uneven and steep in places. There are styles and kissing gates to negotiate but it’s a lovely walk and well worth the effort.