Swanpool, Along the Coast Path to Pendennis Point

Perhaps an out-of-season walk, taking advantage of the winter free parking and fewer visitors to the area.

Walking along the seafront towards Pendennis Point, with the opportunity to visit Pendennis Castle, the Gyllyngdune Gardens, a sub-tropical garden with plant species referenced to Charles Darwin's travels, and his association with Falmouth. There are many interesting artifacts, which make this walk all the more interesting. On the return, walking through the Queen Mary Garden.

Details

87121758
Creation:
Last update:
Last review:
  • Walking
    Activity: Walking
  • ↔
    Distance: 7.24 km
  • ◔
    Average duration: 2h 15 
  • ▲
    Difficulty: Easy

  • ⚐
    Back to start: Yes
  • ↗
    Ascent: + 51 m
  • ↘
    Descent: - 52 m

  • ▲
    Highest point: 53 m
  • ▼
    Lowest point: 2 m

Photos

Description of the walk

(S/E) From the start >>> head towards the sea, cross the road, and generally walk in an easterly direction. Walk along the pavement, passing through Gyllyngvase Beach. There will be a lower walkway, which is optional. Continue, keeping to the pedestrian walkways wherever possible.

(1) At Pendennis Point, a choice to explore the many old sea defences. Head north along Castle Drive to the entrance to Pendennis Castle.

(2) At this point, 200m north, and on the right, views overlooking the town of Falmouth and the dockyard. Take the vehicular entrance to Pendennis Castle, walk across the 'parade ground'. There is an option to visit or explore the castle. Continue westand down to the main road and walkway.Continue west to Gylloyndune Gardens.

(3) Entering the gardens, you will initially see the old quarry, now a hidden garden. Walk up around, past the 'shell grotto' and the gardens, through Princess Pavilion and along the veranda Then head north out of the car park and turn left and west, into Melvill Road. Take the second left into Gyllygvase Road, which will meet up with Cliff Road, turn right and head west.

(4) An optional section through the Queen Mary Gardens, before returning to the coastal path back to (S/E).

Waypoints

  1. S/E : km 0 - alt. 6 m - Swanpool Car Park
  2. 1 : km 3.15 - alt. 10 m - Pendennis Point
  3. 2 : km 3.97 - alt. 48 m - Entry to Pendennis Castle
  4. 3 : km 5.43 - alt. 15 m - Gyllyndune Gardens, and the Princess Pavillions
  5. 4 : km 6.21 - alt. 7 m - Queen Mary Gardens
  6. S/E : km 7.24 - alt. 6 m - Swanpool Car Park

Notes

Start: This walk's starting point, -W3W >>>

Transport: There is a bus service passing by Swanpool. Timings of the buses should be confirmed, allowing for the return trip.

Parking: Vehicle parking - free parking between 1 November and 31 March - pay to stay all other times.

Timing: The time taken is estimated to allow extra time for exploring and personal pace.

Note: Ensure that the highway code is followed and that dogs are kept under control.

Wellbeing: Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions. Although this is only a short walk, always keep hydrated.

Accessibility: All reasonable pathways.

Refreshments: Seasonal variations and times may apply

Option: This is virtually a there-and-back route with slight detours to take in some of the many interesting finds that can be found along the way.

Worth a visit

Other walks in the area

For more walks, use our search engine .

The GPS track and description are the property of this route's author. Please do not copy them without permission.