Pentire Headland Walk

The Pentire Headland pushes out into the Atlantic north of Polzeath on the north Cornwall coast, and this 4.8km circuit traces its edges with views across the Camel Estuary to Stepper Point, out to the Mouls island bird sanctuary, and along the rugged cliffs towards Port Quin. The headland is wild and exposed, with the coast path following close to cliff edges where the sea pounds against dark slate and the turf is cropped short by salt wind. In spring the cliff tops are thick with thrift, sea campion and kidney vetch, and the whole headland has an exhilarating, windswept character. With 173 metres of ascent across the undulating path, this is a short walk that feels bigger than its distance suggests.

This is a dramatic dog friendly walk with limited off-lead potential as livestock grazes the headland fields and the cliff edges demand close control. Leads should be kept on throughout, particularly near the cliff edges where drops are sheer and unfenced. The Atlantic wind carries powerful salt and seabird scent that keeps dogs alert, and the terrain is varied with grassy paths, rocky sections and occasional scrambles. There is no water access from the cliffs themselves. New Polzeath and Polzeath have parking, and the Oystercatcher bar at Polzeath welcomes dogs. The Rumps, the jagged double headland at Pentire's tip, is the dramatic highlight and worth the walk alone. Best on a blowy day when the sea is at its most impressive.