Walks

A rambler's paradise, Morwenstow and the surrounding area are replete with routes across a variety of scenic landscapes, from the craggy coastline, to woodlands and Valleys. 

Walk the South West Coast Path

Arguably one of the most spectacular walks in the county, the coast path offers the chance to ramble along a well-trodden path, while soaking up the spectacular sights and breathing in the fresh sea air. Head in the direction of Bude for a sight of the clifftop satellites of GCHQ Bude, an unexpected view amid the beauty of the cliffs. 

Circular Valley

This circular walk gives you the chance to fully appreciate just why Robert Hawker loved the area so much. Beginning at the Rectory Farm Tea Rooms, head into the churchyard, following the path to the right past the vicarage and down into Morwenna Valley. Turn left at the way marker sign for the coast path following along the length of the valley, through meadows and woods, until you reach Vicarage Cliff and the coast path. Upon joining the coast path, turn left and ascend the cliff to the farmland above. Soon you’ll come across a kissing gate, at this point you can either continue on towards Hawker’s Hut, or return to the Rectory Farm Tea Rooms for a cuppa and a slice of cake!

Why not finish off your day of walking with a homecooked meal at the local 13th Century pub, The Bush Inn? 

Places of interest

Set amidst the beautiful countryside, but also close to the coast, there are so many places to explore in the area, from hidden huts to shipwrecks in the sand.

Hawker’s Hut

Robert Hawker, the parish vicar, who created Cornwall's 'Trelawney' anthem and England's harvest festival tradition (which is celebrated here with aplomb), enjoyed spending time in his favoured spot on the clifftop, where he built his own small hut.

Visit Hawker’s diminutive driftwood dwelling nestled in the cliffs below his old vicarage – another must-see that features hand-built chimneys replicating the church towers he treasured throughout his life.

Morwenstow Church

A marvel of architecture, this historic church houses a range of fine carvings, tomb chests, memorials and stained glass windows; while in the graveyard lies dozens of smugglers and mariners - look out for the white figurehead of the Caledonia: the gravestone of a shipwrecked captain.

Henna Cliff

One of the best vantage points in the area affords spectacular seascapes where, standing atop Cornwall’s highest cliff at 144 metres, you can gain a bird’s eye view of Lundy Island and the distant south Wales coast.