National Trust - Carnewas at Bedruthan Steps

Outstanding coastal walk with amazing views. Easy walking but some stairs on the coastal path when walking east from the car park and on return to the car park. Be prepared for changes in the weather as very little shelter from the elements

Beautiful circular walk that took us just under two hours to complete. We finished back at the cafe on the main car park with a fantastic cream tea. The staff were brilliant and even though it was a really busy bank holiday the food didn't take long to be brought to the table.

Carnewas at Bedruthan, located on the north Cornish coast between Padstow and Newquay, is a National Trust site renowned for its dramatic clifftop views and iconic rock formations known as the Bedruthan Steps. These towering sea stacks, steeped in local legend, are said to have been used as stepping stones by a giant named Bedruthan.  Highlights • Clifftop Views: The site offers panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. • Walking Trails: Several walking routes are available, including a 4.5-mile moderate walk along the coast path towards Park Head and Porth Mear cove. Shorter trails, like the 1-mile Park Head walk, provide easier options with equally stunning views.  • Wildlife and Flora: In spring and autumn, the area is adorned with wildflowers such as squill, and birdwatchers can spot species like stonechats and linnets.  • Tea-room and Shop: Visitors can enjoy light refreshments at the on-site tea-room (not operated by the National Trust) and browse local gifts in the shop, which occupies a building from the site’s mining past.  Important Information • Beach Access: The steps leading down to Bedruthan beach are currently closed due to a rockfall and will remain inaccessible for the foreseeable future.  • Facilities: Parking is available in the main car park, and there are toilets on-site (availability may vary).  For more details, including opening times and seasonal information, visit the National Trust’s official page for Carnewas at Bedruthan.

Blimey! Turned right on day one. Had a gentle 2 hour wander along the coast. Lovely scenery, space, fresh air, quite a gentle trek. Day two, turned left.... the terrain, depending on your level of fitness/ability can be quite challenging. Especially if you go beyond Mawgan Porth (beach, bars, eateries) and are faced with those steps. 🥵 Then again, I'm no slim Jim and it was a hot day. Carnewas has a shop, cafe and loos. Lots of parking, lovely staff (thanks for your help Guy) and currently costs £9 per day. No overnight parking. A good location unless you've forgotten something from the shops!!

Absolutely stunning clifftop views, currently the steps down to the beach are crossed off due to rock fall caused by erosion but it didn't disappoint because the place is just breathtaking