Charlestown to Porthpean Beach

A perfect walk all year round, although it can get muddy after bad weather, so sensible walking shoes are advised.

Walk down through Charlestown towards the beach and pick up the South West Coast Path, signposted just after the Pier House Hotel and Restaurant.

Continue along this path, up a steep hill. As you do, enjoy beautiful views of the Bay on your left.

Proceed through the gate and up the steps. Soon the path will give you the choice of branching left or continuing. They end up at the same place just minutes later, but to the left is a small area designated World Heritage Site.

Sometimes known as Charlestown Gun Battery, the construction here was built by Charles Rashleigh c.1973 to defend the entrance to his new harbour at Charlestown. The estate workers were formed into a Company of artillery volunteers, and held regular gun-drill here until 1896.

Within these defensive walls remain the gun platforms, the anchor stones for a flagstaff, and the ruins of a gunpowder magazine. The side-arms equipment for working the guns was stored in a lean-to shed against the battery wall.

Continue on the winding path as it snakes downs to Duporth Beach. Keep on the path as it climbs back up the hill, before bringing you to a long set of steps which take you straight on to Porthpean Beach.

Once you’re done having fun on the beach, return back to Charlestown using the same route and reward yourself with refreshments from the village’s many cafes, ice cream huts and restaurants.

From time to time parts of the South West Coast path requires a little maintenance and for that to happen the paths may have to be closed off but don’t worry, you can still continue on with your walk as a clearly marked diversion is almost certainly in place. Do check your route in advance.

Distance 1.2 miles each way

Difficulty Moderate. Not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs

Parking Plenty of on-street parking or chargeable car park available

Coordinates 50.3329051 -4.7767036