Mount Edgcumbe Circular Walk

The Mount Edgcumbe Circular Walk isn’t all that difficult of an adventure; however, there are several inclines throughout the route that will not be suitable for less-mobile walkers. As you will be traversing some coastal terrain, you will definitely want to wear good walking footwear. As mentioned above, if you are hoping to explore the house and estate gardens, you will need to pay an entry fee, otherwise, there is no cost to walk this route.

Featuring a beautiful landscape, stunning views of the sea, and interesting historical sites, this is a great walk that will suit the needs of a wide variety of walkers. Whether you are looking to explore the grounds of Mount Edgcumbe House itself or simply experience the tranquil forests and coastal terrain, you will be sure to enjoy every aspect of this scenic walking route.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the southeast for 0.5mi, descending the hillside until you meet up with the South West Coast Path. Turning left here, you will follow the path as it climbs back up to the east and traverses the heavily forested hillside. After 1.2mi, the footpath will briefly exit the cover of the forest and offer some views across the greenspace on your left that features the ruins of the Mount Edgecumbe Folly, an interesting tower overlooking the coast.

From here, you will continue on to the northwest and enter back into the forest, following along the edge of the coast for some beautiful views across the opening of Plymouth Sound and the city beyond. After passing by the formal gardens of the estate, the trail will turn more directly to the west and lead you through the charming village of Cremyll. Here, you will find toilet facilities, as well as several places to grab some mid-walk food and drink.

After leaving the village behind, you will continue heading to the west along the water’s edge for 1.2mi, following the trail as it bends to the south and meets up with Lower Anderton Road. Crossing over to the opposite side of the road, you will pick up the footpath and follow it down the hillside, eventually crossing over B3247 on the return back to the car park where you started the Mount Edgcumbe Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Mount Edgecumbe House

Constructed between 1547 and 1553 by Sir Richard Edgcumbe, Mount Edgcumbe House served as the seat of the Edgcumbe family dating back to the Tudor period. The magnificent house is situated on the Rame Peninsula and overlooks the waters of Plymouth Sound. Largely destroyed in 1941 following a German bombing raid, reconstruction of the house began in 1958 and it was sold to the Plymouth City Council and Cornwall County Council in 1971.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit Mount Edgecumbe?

The Mount Edgecumbe Country Park is open year-round and is free to the public, although there is a free to visit Mount Edgecumbe House.

When was Mount Edgecumbe House built?

The original Mount Edgecumbe House was built between 1547-1553, although this was severely damaged by a German bombing run in 1941. Restoration of the house began in 1958.