A coastal walk along the Cornish coast, accessible by public transport (bus routes 24 and 25). Highlights: Fowey estuary, cliffs, coastal villages, Gribbin Head tower, Georgian harbour at Charlestown.
Departure from Fowey, Main Car Park bus stop. Bus route no. 24, notably from St Blazey.
(S) Departure via Whitehouse Quay.
(1) At Readymoney Cove, please note that dogs are not allowed on the beach during the summer.
(2) Please note: access to St Catherine’s Castle is currently prohibited (April 2026).
(3) At Gribbin Head, a perfect spot for a contemplative break.
(4) The coastal path towards Polkerris alternates between open cliffs and wooded sections. Views over Saint AustellBay .Slightly undulating but accessible sections.
(5) Polkerris, a crescent-shaped coastal village.
(6) At Carlyon Bay,the path descends towards a long, open bay.
Arrival in Charlestown (E).
Return by bus, Old Chapel stop. Bus route no. 25, notably for Saint Blazey.
Waypoints
S : mi 0 - alt. 20 ft - Fowey - Main Car Park Bus Stop
4 : mi 3.58 - alt. 125 ft - Coastal path to Polkerris
5 : mi 4.97 - alt. 72 ft - Polkerris
6 : mi 9.64 - alt. 157 ft - Carlyon Bay
E : mi 10.45 - alt. 39 ft - Charlestown – Old Chapel Bus Stop
Notes
The walk involves two bus journeys, with St Blazey being the midway point. Other bus transport options are available: St Blazey – Fowey: Bus 24, 187, 272 Charlestown – St Blazey: Bus 271, 272, 24, 25 Transport for Cornwall app Buy tickets,real-time timetables,route planning.
Dogs on a lead are permitted (access restricted on some beaches).
Worth a visit
(S) Fowey – Historic village and majestic estuary. Cobbled streets, Georgian houses, small shops. Views of Polruan and the mouth of the estuary. Authentic coastal atmosphere.
(1) Readymoney Cove – A small, sheltered cove. An intimate bay surrounded by wooded cliffs. Turquoise water on a clear day. Perfect for a photo stop. Views of St Catherine’s Castle, a small Tudor fortification.
(2) Saint Catherine’s Castle – 16th-century fort. Spectacular views of the sea and the harbour entrance. Historic strategic point.
(3) Gribbin Head – 19th-century signal tower. Vast panoramic views of the south coast of Cornwall.The perfect spot for a contemplative break.
(5) Polkerris – A crescent-shaped coastal village. A charming hamlet nestled on a sandy beach. Seaside pub,ideal for a lunch break.
(6) Carlyon Bay – Wide beaches and white cliffs. Chalk cliffs.Vast stretches of sand.Superb light inthelateafternoon.
(E) Charlestown – Georgian harbour listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of England’s best-preserved harbours.Traditional sailing ships. Stone quays.Setting for numerous films.
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