The Helford Estuary Walking Map

Walking in the area around the Helford Estuary, Mawnan Smith, Gillan, Porthallow, Maenporth, Gweek, Constantine, and Mawgan offers a peaceful and scenic immersion into one of Cornwall’s most idyllic landscapes. The South West Coast Path threads its way along the shoreline, providing breathtaking coastal walks through sheltered coves, wooded valleys, and open cliff-top meadows. Hill walks are gentle but rewarding, with the countryside rising above the Helford River giving superb estuary views. Riverside routes like the trail from Gweek along the Helford are tranquil and rich in wildlife. The area forms part of the Cornwall National Landscape (formally AONB), with lush, semi-tropical vegetation thriving in the mild climate.

Heritage attractions include the subtropical gardens of Glendurgan and Trebah, both steeped in horticultural history and offering beautiful walks down to private beaches. The church at Mawgan-in-Meneage has medieval roots and stands as a reminder of the area’s long settlement. The nearby Lizard Peninsula has a wealth of history, and the maritime heritage of Gweek's historic boatyard reflects Cornwall’s seafaring past. Coastal features include secret coves, granite headlands, and tidal creeks, making the area perfect for walkers seeking beauty, quiet, and variety in their routes.

This map is also available as part of the Lizard Peninsula Boxed Set.