If you are a fan of walk-ing along the stunning Cornish coast, camera at the ready, hoping to capture the perfect shot of the shimmering sea meeting beautifully rugged cliffs, you are in the right place. Cornwall, in the far south west of England, is renowned for its spectacular coastal landscapes, idyllic coves and sandy beaches. It is a haven for photographers eager to immortalise its beauty. But the question remains: out of all its stunning trails, which coastal paths in Cornwall are the best for scenic photography?
The South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is the longest of England’s National Trails, stretching over 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset, through Devon, and into Cornwall before culminating at Poole Harbour in Dorset. The entire path offers incredible views and opportunities for photography, but there are certain sections in Cornwall that truly stand out.
Home to a diverse landscape with a rich geological, industrial, and cultural history, the path transverses across towering cliffs, hidden coves, quaint harbours, and stretches of golden beach. This, combined with the ever-changing play of light, colour, and weather, makes it a dream canvas for any photographer.
Lizard Point to Kynance Cove
Your journey starts at Lizard Point, the most southernly tip of the British mainland. From here, the coastal path winds its way north towards Kynance Cove. This trail is particularly rewarding for photographers because of the unique combination of the colour of the sea and the outcrops of dark serpentine rock.
The path dips and rises, providing different perspectives of the sea against the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches. Kynance Cove offers a spectacular view of jagged rocks rising from the turquoise sea, a sight that becomes even more breathtaking at low tide, when a sandy beach and a network of caves become accessible.
St. Ives to Zennor
The path from St. Ives to Zennor is another worthy trail for your photography expedition. St. Ives itself is an attractive town, known for its art scene, charming harbour, and mesmerizing light quality, which has inspired artists for centuries.
The path from St. Ives to Zennor provides a diverse range of photographic opportunities. Many photographers find the contrast between the quaint town and the raw nature of the cliffs particularly appealing. There are also a variety of wildlife and botanical subjects along this stretch, making it a cornucopia of photographic inspiration.
Circular walk from Padstow around Stepper Point
The circular walk from Padstow around Stepper Point not only has some of the best views in Cornwall, but it also provides a range of photographic opportunities. You can capture the bustling harbour of Padstow or the golden sandy beaches at low tide.
As you round Stepper Point, you get stunning views over the Atlantic and might even spot some seals. This walk also takes you past the Daymark, a striking navigation tower built in the 19th century, which makes for a fascinating photographic subject.
Perranporth to St Agnes
The Perranporth to St Agnes stretch of the South West Coast Path is a photographer’s favourite for a good reason. With its stunning cliffs, long sandy beaches and old mining structures, this trail offers a wealth of photographic opportunities.
As you walk towards St Agnes, you’ll encounter the ruins of Wheal Coates, a tin mine that was operational in the 19th century. These structures, perched dramatically on the cliff edge overlooking the sea, make for an atmospheric and historically-infused photo shoot.
The diversity of Cornwall’s coastal trail ensures that there’s a perfect view around every corner. From the rugged cliffs and coves of Kynance to the dramatic industrial history of Perranporth, you can capture a myriad of scenes. Each coast-al path provides a unique perspective of Cornwall, and we encourage you to explore as many as possible to truly capture the essence of this breathtaking region.
Godrevy Lighthouse to Portreath
Walking the coastal path from Godrevy Lighthouse to Portreath is an unforgettable experience. Starting at the Godrevy Lighthouse, a majestic 19th-century structure perched on a small island, you’ll have the chance to capture dramatic shots of the lighthouse against the backdrop of the Atlantic.
The path then continues along the coast, offering splendid views of the rugged Cornish coastline and, if you’re lucky, sightings of seals and their pups. As you approach Portreath, you’ll see the remnants of the area’s mining past, offering unique photo opportunities of old engine houses and chimneys standing in stark contrast to the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Godrevy Lighthouse is a must for any landscape photography enthusiast, with the setting sun creating a perfect lighting scenario. And the rest of the path, with its blend of natural and industrial elements, is a feast for the eyes and a treasure trove for photographers.
Walking from Michael’s Mount to Mousehole
The coastal walk from Michael’s Mount to Mousehole is another recommended route for photography enthusiasts. Michael’s Mount, an island crowned by a medieval church and castle, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The island can be reached by a causeway at low tide, or by ferry at other times.
As you continue along the coastal path, you’ll encounter a variety of scenery, from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs. Approaching Mousehole, a quaint fishing village, you will find a plethora of photography subjects. From the charming harbour filled with colourful boats to the narrow winding streets lined with old cottages, every corner of Mousehole is a snapshot waiting to happen.
With its varied and dramatic landscapes, Cornwall provides an unparalleled setting for scenic photography. Whether it’s a circular walk around the dramatic coastline, an exploration of the ancient mining structures of Perranporth, or capturing the breathtaking beauty of Kynance Cove at sunset, the Cornish coast offers endless possibilities for capturing memorable images.
Each coastal path unveils a unique facet of Cornwall’s beauty, and the diversity of the trails ensures that there are options suitable for every preference and level of walking experience. The result is a collection of photographic prints that not only capture the stunning vistas but also tell the story of the rich cultural, industrial, and geological history of the south west coast.
Whether you’re a professional landscape photographer or a hobbyist with a love for coastal walks, there’s no doubt that the Cornish coastline will leave you in awe and provide you with a wealth of subjects for your photography. So grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and let the Cornwall coastal paths inspire your creativity and passion for nature.