I think this has to be one of our favourite walks in Cornwall, taking in the beautiful Kynance Cove and following the coast path around Lizard Point to Church Cove. The views are glorious even on a November day!
We have walked this section many times, always starting from The Lizard village. The walk to Kynance Cove is signposted from the toilet block by the green, and you soon catch glimpses of the renowned rocks that surround the cove. When you reach the National Trust car park, follow the path to the left and start your walk south along the coast path. You can walk down to the beach and cafe, but will need to retrace your steps to rejoin the coast path.
This stretch of coast has stunning views across Mounts Bay to Penzance and Lands End and is fairly easy walking apart from one climb down and back up the other side. Lizard Point is rugged and open, and the wind here can be strong and gusty until you follow the wall around to the left and start walking down towards Polpeor Cove. Look out for seals as you approach the old lifeboat station as they often frequent this area. This is also a known nesting area for choughs although they can now be spotted anywhere around the Lizard coastline. Wildlife sightings are listed on a board near the cafe, and it's always interesting to stop and check what has been spotted that day.
From here you can walk inland to the lighthouse and village, or continue along the coast path. The next section is quite different to the open cliffs of the western side. It's not difficult, but the path can be narrow and there are more ups and downs especially at Housel Bay. You will pass the Marconi and Lloyds coastguard buildings, and then the new lifeboat station just before Church Cove.
Walking down to Church Cove is the final stretch of coastal walking. The tight cluster of cottages is much photographed and very picturesque. There are usually a couple of cats stretched out in the sunshine when we have walked through. The road now leads back up towards Lizard village past St. Wynwallow Church. There are more attractive cottages nearby, and then you reach the school and a lovely little plant nursery on the right hand side. The village green is a 5 minute walk from here, with a selection of shops and a pub. The fish and chip shop is excellent, but has limited opening hours/days so best to check before relying on a post walk treat!
This walk is about 6 miles, but there are are several paths leading back to Lizard Village from the coast path if you want to make it shorter.
This walk features in many walk guide books and websites. We parked on the green at The Lizard (contributions box), followed the signs to Kynance Cove from the toilet block and kept to the Coast Path until we reached Church Cove. From here, it is a pleasant stroll back to The Lizard village. There is also a regular bus service from Helston to The Lizard.
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