Coverack to Helford Walk

10.5 miles (16.9 km)

This walk follows the South West Coast Path from Coverack to Helford. The route runs for about 10.5 miles, following the waymarked trail along a reasonably flat path.... On the way you will pass Porthoustock and Porthallow before crossing Gillian Creek and finishing at Helford Point next to the river.
The walk explores a varied section of the Lizard Peninsula coastline, with views across rocky shores, sheltered coves and open stretches of the English Channel. Between Coverack and Porthoustock the path passes former quarrying areas where hard greenstone rock was extracted for use in harbour works and railway construction, leaving a distinctive industrial legacy along the coast.
Further west, Porthallow marks the halfway point of the South West Coast Path and sits beside one of the few sizeable beaches on this stretch of coast. Beyond the village, the route becomes more sheltered as it approaches the Helford estuary, passing through areas of coastal grassland, scrub and woodland. The crossing of Gillan Creek introduces a more tranquil landscape of tidal waters and mudflats that support a variety of birdlife.
The walk finishes at Helford Point, overlooking the broad Helford River estuary. This area is noted for its wooded creeks, sheltered waters and rich natural habitats, providing a marked contrast to the more exposed coastline at the start of the route. The combination of coastal scenery, historic villages and estuary views makes this one of the most varied sections of the Cornish coast path.