Best autumn walks to explore across Cornwall that'll leave you wanting more

A crisp autumn day is one of the best times to go on a refreshing walk, and across Cornwall, there are countless locations to explore that will leave you wanting more. From shorter walks perfect for young families to full-day hikes for those who love a challenge, there's simply so much choice.

Muddy Stilettos has complied some of the best woodland walks in Cornwall that will immerse you in their stunning display of autumn colours. While not all of the walks below are intense hikes up steep hills, they are great for families and groups to get out and shake the cobwebs off.

Cornwall is renowned for its coastline and beaches, but there are also plenty of woodlands you can explore too. For anyone wanting to spend an afternoon walking through the reds, oranges, yellows and browns that paint the beautiful Cornish autumnal landscapes, the walks below might be for you.

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Cardinham, near Bodmin

The age-old woodlands of Cardinham Woods are the perfect location for an autumnal walk, offering a diverse mix of trees for a bit of forest bathing, and a forest floor teeming with all sorts of intriguing things for little ones to examine.

This Cornish hidden gem is nestled in a valley that features a bubbling stream. There are various viewpoints, plenty of local wildlife and the opportunity to travel back in time in the remnants of a former lead mine and an ancient clapper bridge.

Pinetum Gardens near St Austell

This 30-acre estate and botanical garden is worth a visit. Keep an eye out for the ring of several Clerodendrum Trichotomum, with their scent filling the air in autumn, as well as the vibrant colours of the acers and Parrotia that go out in a blaze at the end of the season.

Nestled in the heart of St Austell the Pinetum Gardens is a slice of peace and tranquillity and beautiful scenery. The family-owned garden is home to one of the largest plant collections in the county.

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Tehidy

This is the largest area of woodland in West Cornwall, boasting over nine miles of paths to explore. Once the estate of the Bassets, it is now managed as a Country Park by Cornwall Council.

Whether you visit as a group, solo or with your four-legged friend everyone can enjoy the tranquil setting and variety of wildlife at Tehidy. With a different type of beauty for every season, Tehidy is an enchanting place to visit all year round.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Autumn at Heligan is a celebration of the harvest season, with vibrant colours from the bountiful produce. But don't miss out on the stunning tree hues, particularly if you venture beyond the formal gardens and towards the jungle.

The Lost Gardens hold intricate collections of wildlife and are a garden for all seasons, so you are promised a unique experience. A number of winter events run through November and December, perfect for the festive season.

Lanhydrock, near Bodmin

Yes, there is the magnificent late Victorian country house with a garden and wooded estate, which is lovely, and there can be great colours to be found, but it is the wider estate that makes excellent woodland walking, particularly alongside the river. The Park Run on a Saturday morning makes a nice way to see the whole thing.

There are four circular routes around the Lanhydrock estate, each of which provides unique views of the natural surroundings and the wildlife habitats that live there. Stroll towards the Victorian swimming pool, head out around the parkland or really stretch your legs by taking the historic deer park route.

Trebah, Mawnan Smith

Explore a collection of stunning Acers, or simply gaze down the valley from Lawn Path to see the shelterbelt trees in full autumn colour. The southern hemisphere plants are also springing into action, and the hydrangeas are still flowing.

The café is open for warming drinks and bites, as are the playgrounds for your little ones. A number of events are also hosted at Trebah through the year, so you can join a yoga class, have Sunday lunch and take part in creative workshops.

Antony Woodland Gardens, Torpoint

One of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets, the Antony Woodland Gardens is truly glorious in autumn. Look out for the magnificent garden walks nestled along the banks of the River Lynher. Take in the joys of Autumn and the spectacular and diverse range of plants that thrive under the canopy of trees in the Woodland Garden at this time of year.

Perfect for dog walkers, you can explore the gardens and pop into the café for a well-deserved treat after. For those looking for an exciting adventure, you can hunt through the woods and search for all the fairy houses hidden in the trees.

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