The Esplanade Hotel Blog

If you want to explore a piece of the South West Coast Path, check out these two circular walks starting at The Esplanade Hotel in Newquay.

The Gazzle and Newquay town centre circular

Starting on Esplanade Road, walk down the steps to Fistral Beach. Follow the beach along the South West Coast Path and continue up to the top of Towan Headland, where views stretch across Newquay Bay. Continue along the coast path to the Huer's Hut and take in the dramatic views of the Gazzle below. Stop here for a photo opportunity. Walk downhill along the coast path to Newquay Harbour. At low tide, descend the harbour steps onto Towan Beach. Walk up the cobbled walkway into Newquay town centre. At high tide, skip the beach section and head uphill to Fore Street, then continue into Newquay town centre. Head uphill past The Lighthouse Cinema to Crantock Street. At the end of Crantock Street, cross the road and follow the footpath to the left of the old churchyard gateway. Continue along the back of the golf course and down Esplanade Road to return to the start

Newquay to Crantock

Head downhill on Esplanade Road and up to Pentire Headland. From here, follow the coast path around the headland, taking in stunning views of Goose Rock and Crantock Beach below. The path then leads inland towards the charming Fernpit Cafe. Descend the steps to access the Fern Pit Ferry at high tide, or take the footbridge at low tide, and continue along the sands of Crantock Beach. Wander through the National Trust car park and up into Crantock Village. You can retrace your steps back to the hotel, or extend your walk via the South West Coast Path, leaving the village through the National Trust car park and following the path around to Penpol Creek. At low tide, cross the Gannel Estuary before heading uphill along Pentire Crescent, which connects back to Esplanade Road. From there, it’s a short stroll downhill to return to The Esplanade Hotel.

Note: It is dangerous to wade or swim in the Gannel: please take care and check tide times before you start. This walk depends upon being able to cross the Gannel both ways. If the tide is too high to walk across to Penpol on your return you will need to walk to Fern Pit to catch the ferry. If the ferry is not operating walk inland to Trevemper Bridge.

The South West Coast Path website maps this route and many others, offering a wonderful way to experience Newquay’s stunning coastline.

Find out more at www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Why not stay and stroll with our two-night Walking Break at The Esplanade Hotel in Newquay.