Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk

The Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk is a laidback adventure that only features a small amount of elevation gain; however, there are some steep drop offs along the coast that could prove to be dangerous. Make sure to keep an eye on children or dogs when walking through these areas. Additionally, rockfalls are common along the coast, with one occurring in February of 2020 that damaged the Bedruthan Steps and resulted in their closure. While you can’t access these steps, the pentire Steps close by are a great alternative to access the beach.

Featuring breathtaking views along the coast that stretch out into the vast expanse of the Bristol Channel, the Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk really is a spectacular adventure. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the easy-going terrain and stunning backdrop of the sea will provide you with an unforgettable experience of walking along the coastal cliffs of Cornwall. What an excellent way to spend the day outdoors.

Setting out from the car park, you will make your way to the northeast past the Porth Mear Cottage and continue along the footpath as it bends to the northwest and leads you across several open fields. As you descend the hillside you will pass through a small glen, eventually arriving at a stunning viewpoint overlooking the secluded site of Porth Mear.

After taking some time to appreciate the views of this scenic cove, you will continue along the coastal trail as it turns to the southwest, providing you some amazing views overlooking the sea. Eventually, you will arrive at the coastal headland known as Park Head that juts out onto the water and provides some scenic views along the rest of the coast. Here, you will also find the remains of an Iron age Embankment constructed by inhabitants of the area thousands of years ago.

Continuing along the dramatic terrain of the coast, you will head to the southeast and enjoy some scenic views over Pentire Beach, before arriving at a junction where you could make a detour to the right in order to make your way towards the Pentire and Bedruthan steps. If you do not plan on making this scenic detour, simply head left at the junction to return to the trailhead where you began the Bedruthan Steps and Park Head Walk.

Trail Highlights

Bedruthan Steps

The Bedruthan Steps can be found along the Cornish Coast between Padstow and Newquay and provide access to the secluded Bedruthan Beach beneath the cliffs. This steep staircase features 149 steps that have been carved into the cliff face and serve as the only means to access the beach. Access to the Bedruthan Steps has been restricted since February 2020, when a rockfall damaged the infrastructure and the National Trust ruled it an unsafe area. Fortunately, the Pentire Steps – located just to the north – offer a similar, if less well-known, experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many steps make up the Bedruthan Steps?

The Bedruthan Steps are comprised of 149 steps carved into the cliff face.

Why are the Bedruthan Steps closed?

Access to the Bedruthan Steps was affected by a rockfall in the area that occurred in February 2020 and badly damaged the infrastructure, resulting in the National Trust restricting access to the site.