England: Cornwall & the South West Coast Path

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

When your included flight arrives at London Heathrow Airport, make your way independently to the city.

A Heathrow Express train ticket is included as part of your tour, providing a fast, direct, and convenient transfer from Heathrow Airport to central London. This non-stop service brings you from your arrival terminal to London Paddington Station in approximately 15–20 minutes. The Hilton London Paddington is directly connected to the station, allowing you to roll your luggage straight from the train into the hotel lobby—no taxis or long walks required—for an easy and efficient arrival.

To expedite travel time and maintain our standards of value, efficiency, and convenience, we have selected this reliable service in place of a standard vehicle transfer. By avoiding unpredictable London traffic, you’ll enjoy a smoother journey that gets you to your hotel quickly so you can relax or begin exploring.

Once you’ve arrived at your hotel, the Hilton London Paddington—an elegant landmark directly connected to Paddington Station—settle in and enjoy the convenience of your central location. From the hotel, it’s a short walk to Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, or the shops of Oxford Street. London’s extensive Underground network also makes it easy to explore farther afield.

Please note: If you arrive early, your room may not be available until 3:00 p.m., but you are welcome to store your luggage with reception. The rest of the day is free to settle in, explore the city, and begin your adventure.

Lunch and dinner are on your own today. Excellent restaurants, pubs, and cafés are a short walk from the hotel. Your City Highlights include recommendations for notable sights, restaurants, and other local experiences to help you make the most of your time in London.

Padstow town walk; 1 mile, easy

After an included breakfast at your hotel, meet your representative at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby of your hotel. You will be escorted to the train platform at the adjacent Paddington Station to begin your rail journey to Cornwall—an approximately four-hour trip.

Upon arrival at Bodmin Parkway Station, you will be met for the final 30-minute car transfer to your hotel in Padstow.

Meet your leaders at 4:00 p.m. in the lobby of the first hotel, Harbour Hotel Padstow, for an overview of the walks, hidden gems, and unique experiences ahead on your adventure. Dress for walking in comfortable, weather-appropriate attire with sturdy footwear for today’s easy town walk. For walks during the rest of the week, bring a daypack to carry essentials such as rain gear, a filled water bottle, and any personal items you may need along the trail.

You’ve arrived in Padstow, a quaint Cornish fishing village about halfway down the northern coast of Cornwall, set along a particularly scenic stretch of the country’s famed South West Coast Path. Its picturesque harbor is framed by historic stone buildings, narrow lanes, and colorful fishing boats, while the surrounding coastline offers sweeping views across the Camel Estuary. If you wish, join a gentle warm-up walk through the village’s winding streets and along the waterfront, passing traditional Cornish cottages and breathing in the scent of sea air as evening light settles over the water.

Later, gather with fellow travelers for a welcome dinner—a chance to connect over fresh, local flavors and build excitement for the spectacular walks to come.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Rock to Polzeath return; 6 miles, easy to moderate. Optional walk to The Rumps; 3 miles, easy to moderate

A short ferry ride across the Camel Estuary delivers you to Rock, a beautiful waterside village and the starting point for your first coastal walk. From here, follow a well-trodden path through rolling dunes and grassy headlands, where the salty breeze and the cries of seabirds accompany your every step. Meander past St. Enodoc Church, a picturesque chapel nestled among the sand dunes and dating back to the 12th century. Linger here before continuing to Daymer Bay, a peaceful cove where gentle waves lap at the sand and grassland.

Your walk traces more of the coast to Polzeath, a renowned surf village where the rhythm of the waves and a laid-back atmosphere invite you to pause. Enjoy a seaside lunch of your choice—settle into a local café for homemade treats or bring a takeaway for a relaxed picnic on the beach as surfers ride the waves.

Avid walkers can opt to continue on toward The Rumps, a striking twin headland offering sweeping views of the Atlantic. Along the way, watch for seabirds nesting in the cliffs and the remains of an Iron Age fort that once guarded these rugged shores.

Later, as the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the coastline, retrace your scenic route back to Rock. A ferry returns you to Padstow in time to unwind, enjoy dinner at your leisure, and perhaps take an evening stroll around the harbor.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Padstow to Trevone; 5 miles, easy to moderate. St Mawes village walk; 1.5 miles, easy

Wake to the fresh sea air of Padstow and step out onto the South West Coast Path. Today’s walk begins with a magnificent meander along Cornwall’s northern shores. Leaving the harbor behind, follow the path toward Stepper Point, home to the 40-foot stone Daymark Tower, affectionately known as “The Pepper Pot.” This historic navigational beacon stands atop the headland, offering sweeping views across the Camel Estuary and beyond. Here, the coastline reveals its rugged splendor, with dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea.

Continue along Trevone Bay, where golden sands meet rocky outcrops. Later, arrive at Harlyn Bay, a sheltered cove known for its crystal-clear waters and rolling surf. There will be time for lunch here—perhaps a fresh, locally sourced al fresco meal at The Harlyn Shack, or a cozy sit-down in one of Trevone’s welcoming eateries.

After lunch, travel across the Roseland Peninsula to Cornwall’s southern coast. Nestled within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you arrive in the postcard-perfect harbor town of St. Mawes. Begin your next walk at the historic St. Mawes Castle, one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal fortresses. A gentle downhill path leads past the elegant Hotel Tresanton, then descends further to the waterfront, where you indulge in the timeless British tradition of Afternoon Tea. Savor delicate pastries, homemade scones, and locally blended teas—all accompanied by uninterrupted sea views.

As the light softens over the harbor, ferry across to Falmouth, a lively maritime town rich in seafaring history. Known for its deep natural harbor—one of the largest in the world—Falmouth blends historic quays, narrow streets lined with independent shops, and a vibrant cultural scene. From its bustling waterfront to its beaches and gardens, the town offers an inviting mix of nautical heritage and coastal charm. A short walk from the pier leads to your next hotel, where you’ll end the day with a dinner of fresh flavors, warm hospitality, and serene ocean views.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Maenporth Beach to Trebah; 4 miles, easy. Trebah Gardens Walk; 2 miles, easy

After breakfast, travel via a route that passes the imposing Pendennis Castle—standing guard over the mouth of the Fal River for more than 450 years—before arriving at Maenporth Beach to begin today’s walk. You might spot grey herons or little egrets taking flight from the nearby wetlands. From the sandy cove, rejoin the coastal path as it winds along scenic cliffs, through ancient wooded valleys, and past hidden coves, where the scents of the sea and wildflowers linger in the air.

The path descends into Durgan, a quiet hamlet on the banks of the Helford River. With its narrow lanes, old stone cottages, and moored boats bobbing offshore, this tiny village feels untouched by time. Pause to take in the stillness before continuing to Trebah Gardens, one of Cornwall’s most remarkable horticultural treasures.

Lunch today is at your leisure at the spacious Trebah Café, which offers a variety of hearty and seasonal fare. You may choose to dine before or after exploring the gardens.

After lunch or your visit, stroll through this subtropical valley garden, following serene footpaths past giant ferns, through bamboo groves, and along towering rhododendrons to Trebah’s private beach. During World War II, these shores served as a departure point for American soldiers bound for Normandy on D-day.

This evening, dinner is on your own. Your leaders are happy to recommend options, from waterfront seafood restaurants to cozy pubs tucked away in town.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Lelant to St Ives; 4 miles, easy. Optional St Ives to Carbis Bay; 2 miles, easy

Leaving the south coast behind, travel to Lelant, a peaceful village on the edge of the Hayle Estuary. From here, set out along the coast path, following a spectacular route with sweeping views of golden beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged headlands. The path passes Porthkidney Sands, a vast, open beach often quiet except for the sound of the waves.

Soon, your views open over Carbis Bay, where clear waters and white sands evoke a scene more often associated with the Caribbean. From here, trace the coastline into St. Ives, often voted one of the best seaside towns in the UK. Today, its narrow lanes are a haven for artists, blessed with the kind of light that has inspired generations of painters. Upon arrival, your leaders will recommend spots for lunch on your own.

The afternoon is yours to explore this iconic fishing town, often called the “Jewel in Cornwall’s Crown.” Wander the art-lined halls of Tate St. Ives, visit the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden, or browse the town’s galleries and boutiques. The harborside is perfect for a relaxed stroll past fishing boats bobbing on the tide.

Later, board a scenic local train for a short but memorable ride along the coast. Often described as one of the most beautiful stretches of rail in the UK, this three-minute journey offers sweeping views over Carbis Bay and the open sea. Upon arrival, it’s a short walk to your boutique hotel overlooking the bay—a peaceful retreat perfectly situated for your final nights in Cornwall. Dinner is at your leisure this evening.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Botallack Mine Exploration; 1 mile, easy. Land’s End to Porthcurno; 5 miles, moderate

After breakfast, travel to Porthcurno to admire its magnificent bay of golden sand and clear turquoise water. Take a stroll along the shore and, if you wish, dip your toes in the sea. As you begin your walk, learn about the Eastern Telegraph Company Limited when you pass the small, unassuming concrete cable office—from which, in the 1870s, undersea cables were laid to connect distant reaches of the British Empire, transforming global communication. Just above the cove stands the iconic Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheater carved into the cliffs in the 1930s by local visionary Rowena Cade. This extraordinary performance venue reflects Cornwall’s creative spirit and enduring bond with the sea. (Entrance not included.)

Take a moment to soak in the wild, rugged beauty before setting out along the South West Coast Path toward Porthgwarra, a tiny fishing cove with luminous waters. Once a smugglers’ hideout, it is now a peaceful haven for walkers. Continue on to Land’s End, the most westerly point of mainland England, where sweeping sea views seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon.

After lunch, travel to the remarkable historic site of the Botallack Mines, part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the dramatic cliffs of the Tin Coast reveal the story of submarine mining—tunnels that once extended far beneath the seabed. Some evidence suggests these cliffs were worked as far back as the Bronze Age. With a local guide, explore the 19th-century engine houses and pump rooms perched high above the waves, where crashing surf and circling seabirds create an unforgettable atmosphere.

As the afternoon draws to a close, return to your seaside hotel for a celebratory farewell dinner, raising a toast to your memorable journey along the South West Coast Path.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning, savoring one last taste of Cornwall’s fresh flavors while gazing out to sea. Then travel to St. Erth train station to begin your return journey to London Paddington and to your hotel, just steps from the station.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, walk the short distance from your hotel to Paddington Station and board the Heathrow Express train to London Heathrow Airport for your departing flight.

A Heathrow Express train ticket is included as part of your tour, offering a fast, direct, and convenient connection from Paddington Station to your departure terminal at Heathrow. To expedite travel time and maintain our standards of value, efficiency, and convenience, we recommend this reliable and straightforward service.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Padstow town walk; 1 mile, easy

Make your own way to the Padstow Harbor Hotel in Padstow, a quaint Cornish fishing village about halfway down the northern coast of Cornwall.

After settling in, meet your guides in the lobby at 4:00 p.m. for an overview of the walks, hidden gems, and unique experiences ahead on your adventure.

You’ve arrived in one of England’s most breathtaking coastal locales, along a particularly scenic stretch of the country’s famed South West Coast Path. If you wish, join a gentle warm-up walk through the village’s winding streets and along the waterfront, passing traditional Cornish cottages and breathing in the scent of sea air as evening light settles over the water.

Later, gather with fellow travelers for a welcome dinner—a chance to connect over fresh, local flavors and build excitement for the spectacular walks to come.

Included Meals: Dinner

Rock to Polzeath return; 6 miles, easy to moderate. Optional walk to The Rumps; 3 miles, easy to moderate

A short ferry ride across the Camel Estuary delivers you to Rock, a beautiful waterside village and the starting point for your first coastal walk. From here, follow a well-trodden path through rolling dunes and grassy headlands, where the salty breeze and the cries of seabirds accompany your every step. Meander past St. Enodoc Church, a picturesque chapel nestled among the sand dunes and dating back to the 12th century. Linger here before continuing to Daymer Bay, a peaceful cove where gentle waves lap at the sand and grassland.

Your walk traces more of the coast to Polzeath, a renowned surf village where the rhythm of the waves and a laid-back atmosphere invite you to pause. Enjoy a seaside lunch of your choice—settle into a local café for homemade treats or bring a takeaway for a relaxed picnic on the beach as surfers ride the waves.

Avid walkers can opt to continue on toward The Rumps, a striking twin headland offering sweeping views of the Atlantic. Along the way, watch for seabirds nesting in the cliffs and the remains of an Iron Age fort that once guarded these rugged shores.

Later, as the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the coastline, retrace your scenic route back to Rock. A ferry returns you to Padstow in time to unwind, enjoy dinner at your leisure, and perhaps take an evening stroll around the harbor.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Padstow to Trevone; 5 miles, easy to moderate. St Mawes village walk; 1.5 miles, easy

Wake to the fresh sea air of Padstow and step out onto the South West Coast Path. Today’s walk begins with a magnificent meander along Cornwall’s northern shores. Leaving the harbor behind, follow the path toward Stepper Point, home to the 40-foot stone Daymark Tower, affectionately known as “The Pepper Pot.” This historic navigational beacon stands atop the headland, offering sweeping views across the Camel Estuary and beyond. Here, the coastline reveals its rugged splendor, with dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea.

Continue along Trevone Bay, where golden sands meet rocky outcrops. Later, arrive at Harlyn Bay, a sheltered cove known for its crystal-clear waters and rolling surf. There will be time for lunch here—perhaps a fresh, locally sourced al fresco meal at The Harlyn Shack, or a cozy sit-down in one of Trevone’s welcoming eateries.

After lunch, travel across the Roseland Peninsula to Cornwall’s southern coast. Nestled within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you arrive in the postcard-perfect harbor town of St. Mawes. Begin your next walk at the historic St. Mawes Castle, one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal fortresses. A gentle downhill path leads past the elegant Hotel Tresanton, then descends further to the waterfront, where you indulge in the timeless British tradition of Afternoon Tea. Savor delicate pastries, homemade scones, and locally blended teas—all accompanied by uninterrupted sea views.

As the light softens over the harbor, ferry across to Falmouth, a lively maritime town rich in seafaring history. Known for its deep natural harbor—one of the largest in the world—Falmouth blends historic quays, narrow streets lined with independent shops, and a vibrant cultural scene. From its bustling waterfront to its beaches and gardens, the town offers an inviting mix of nautical heritage and coastal charm. A short walk from the pier leads to your next hotel, where you’ll end the day with a dinner of fresh flavors, warm hospitality, and serene ocean views.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Maenporth Beach to Trebah; 4 miles, easy. Trebah Gardens Walk; 2 miles, easy

After breakfast, travel via a route that passes the imposing Pendennis Castle—standing guard over the mouth of the Fal River for more than 450 years—before arriving at Maenporth Beach to begin today’s walk. You might spot grey herons or little egrets taking flight from the nearby wetlands. From the sandy cove, rejoin the coastal path as it winds along scenic cliffs, through ancient wooded valleys, and past hidden coves, where the scents of the sea and wildflowers linger in the air.

The path descends into Durgan, a quiet hamlet on the banks of the Helford River. With its narrow lanes, old stone cottages, and moored boats bobbing offshore, this tiny village feels untouched by time. Pause to take in the stillness before continuing to Trebah Gardens, one of Cornwall’s most remarkable horticultural treasures.

Lunch today is at your leisure at the spacious Trebah Café, which offers a variety of hearty and seasonal fare. You may choose to dine before or after exploring the gardens.

After lunch or your visit, stroll through this subtropical valley garden, following serene footpaths past giant ferns, through bamboo groves, and along towering rhododendrons to Trebah’s private beach. During World War II, these shores served as a departure point for American soldiers bound for Normandy on D-day.

This evening, dinner is on your own. Your leaders are happy to recommend options, from waterfront seafood restaurants to cozy pubs tucked away in town.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Lelant to St Ives; 4 miles, easy. Optional St Ives to Carbis Bay; 2 miles, easy

Leaving the south coast behind, travel to Lelant, a peaceful village on the edge of the Hayle Estuary. From here, set out along the coast path, following a spectacular route with sweeping views of golden beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged headlands. The path passes Porthkidney Sands, a vast, open beach often quiet except for the sound of the waves.

Soon, your views open over Carbis Bay, where clear waters and white sands evoke a scene more often associated with the Caribbean. From here, trace the coastline into St. Ives, often voted one of the best seaside towns in the UK. Today, its narrow lanes are a haven for artists, blessed with the kind of light that has inspired generations of painters. Upon arrival, your leaders will recommend spots for lunch on your own.

The afternoon is yours to explore this iconic fishing town, often called the “Jewel in Cornwall’s Crown.” Wander the art-lined halls of Tate St. Ives, visit the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden, or browse the town’s galleries and boutiques. The harborside is perfect for a relaxed stroll past fishing boats bobbing on the tide.

Later, board a scenic local train for a short but memorable ride along the coast. Often described as one of the most beautiful stretches of rail in the UK, this three-minute journey offers sweeping views over Carbis Bay and the open sea. Upon arrival, it’s a short walk to your boutique hotel overlooking the bay—a peaceful retreat perfectly situated for your final nights in Cornwall. Dinner is at your leisure this evening.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Botallack Mine Exploration; 1 mile, easy. Land’s End to Porthcurno; 5 miles, moderate

After breakfast, travel to Porthcurno to admire its magnificent bay of golden sand and clear turquoise water. Take a stroll along the shore and, if you wish, dip your toes in the sea. As you begin your walk, learn about the Eastern Telegraph Company Limited when you pass the small, unassuming concrete cable office—from which, in the 1870s, undersea cables were laid to connect distant reaches of the British Empire, transforming global communication. Just above the cove stands the iconic Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheater carved into the cliffs in the 1930s by local visionary Rowena Cade. This extraordinary performance venue reflects Cornwall’s creative spirit and enduring bond with the sea. (Entrance not included.)

Take a moment to soak in the wild, rugged beauty before setting out along the South West Coast Path toward Porthgwarra, a tiny fishing cove with luminous waters. Once a smugglers’ hideout, it is now a peaceful haven for walkers. Continue on to Land’s End, the most westerly point of mainland England, where sweeping sea views seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon.

After lunch, travel to the remarkable historic site of the Botallack Mines, part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the dramatic cliffs of the Tin Coast reveal the story of submarine mining—tunnels that once extended far beneath the seabed. Some evidence suggests these cliffs were worked as far back as the Bronze Age. With a local guide, explore the 19th-century engine houses and pump rooms perched high above the waves, where crashing surf and circling seabirds create an unforgettable atmosphere.

As the afternoon draws to a close, return to your seaside hotel for a celebratory farewell dinner, raising a toast to your memorable journey along the South West Coast Path.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an included breakfast, your tour officially concludes at the hotel. Enjoy a final taste of Cornwall’s fresh flavors while gazing out to sea, then bid farewell to your leaders and fellow travelers. If you wish, you are welcome to join our complimentary shuttle to St. Erth train station. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes, and you can plan to arrive at the station by 10:00 a.m. for convenient onward connections.

Included Meals: Breakfast