This section of the coast path takes you through some of the most iconic mining heritage in Cornwall, with beautiful beaches and engine house ruins along the way. The walk can de done as a circular route via St Agnes Beacon or you can return the same way via the coast. Either way it takes 2-3 hours, and is approximately 5 miles. The path is relatively easy and the views are stunning the whole way!
You can start the walk from Trevaunance Cove ( the beach in St Agnes town), pay and display car parks are available in town although can get quite busy in high season. Alternatively you could start at St Agnes head, where there is also a car park.
On the way you will see stunning beaches and enjoy expansive ocean views. After passing St Agnes head, the path approaches Wheal Coates with its well known and highly photographed engine house at Towanroath Shaft.
The path continues towards Chapel Porth passing above two caves and a natural arch in the cliff. The first sea cave is just below Wheal Coates at the far end of Chapel Porth beach. If the tide is low you can choose to explore from the beach when you reach Chapel Porth.
When the path reaches the top of the headland known as Mulgram Hill, follow it to the left and you will pass through another area of disused mines. The engine house is part of Wheal Charlotte, a former copper mine. The path then passes through Wheal Charlotte Moor and begins to ascend to Porthtowan.
Once you reach Porthtowan, you can make a pit stop in one of the cafes right on the beach before heading back to St Agnes. Once you return to St Agnes you might want to celebrate with a tasty local pint in The Driftwood Spars - a cosy 17th century pub right near the start/end of the trail!
Practical information
There aren't many facilities along the way so be sure to bring water and snacks with you. There are cafes and toilets at the starting point in St Agnes, and at the other end in Porthtowan. In the winter some cafes and pubs may be closed or have reduced opening hours but you will still be able to find somewhere for a stop. It is best to check opening times ahead, we visited in December and the Driftwood Spars pub was open as were a couple of lovely cafes in Porthtowan. Most of the path is gravel but it can be muddy and wet in some places so be sure to wear proper footwear. This trail can be done in any season but bear in mind car parks can get very busy during peak summer season.
