Circular Pub Walks
During your stay at Le Dorney Villas, why not combine a scenic walk with a visit to one of Cornwall’s charming pubs? We’ve picked a collection of six circular pub walks, each starting and finishing at a traditional inn where you can enjoy a drink or a meal before or after stretching your legs. These routes are designed to be relaxed and enjoyable, perfect for guests who’d like to explore at their own pace without worrying about transport back.
The walks vary from gentle woodland and riverside paths to more adventurous cliff-top trails with sweeping sea views. Along the way, you’ll discover historic churches, quiet creeks, fishing harbours, and panoramic countryside vistas. Whether you’re in the mood for a short family-friendly outing or a bracing coastal hike, each circular walk offers a memorable slice of Cornwall’s landscape - with the welcome comfort of a pub waiting at the end.
The Rashleigh Inn, Polkerris
2.5 miles from Le Dorney Villas - Walking Route 3.5 miles
Starting from the Rashleigh Arms in Polkerris, this circular walk climbs through woodland and fields to the red-and-white daymark on Gribben Head, where the panoramic views stretch across St Austell Bay to Dodman Point and beyond. The route then descends past Polridmouth Cove and winds through the parkland of the Menabilly Estate, once home to Daphne du Maurier, before looping back along quiet country lanes to the coast and your starting point at Polkerris.
The Fishermans Arms, Golant
3.5 miles from Le Dorney Villas – Walking Route 3 miles
This scenic circular from the Fishermans Arms in Golant offers wonderful views of the River Fowey and rolling Cornish countryside, with stretches following the historic Saints Way, once walked by early pilgrims. The route passes through peaceful creeks, beech woodland, and farmland, with plenty of variety underfoot and some gentle climbs rewarded by far-reaching views. The walk loops back past St Sampson’s Church, one of Cornwall’s oldest, before descending into the village and returning to the pub.
The Old Ferry Inn,
Bodinnick
4.4 miles from Le Dorney Villas – Route 4 miles
This classic circular route from Bodinnick follows the historic Hall Walk, a scenic riverside path overlooking the Fowey Estuary. The trail passes memorials, woodlands, and tranquil creeks with stunning views across to Fowey and out to sea. After descending into Polruan harbour, take the passenger ferry to Fowey, wander through its charming streets, then return across the water to Bodinnick. A walk rich in history, estuary views, and a touch of adventure with the ferry crossings.
The Ship Inn, Lerryn
9 miles from Le Dorney Villas – Walking Route 5 miles
From the pub in Lerryn, follow the creekside and cross into the enchanting Ethy Woods (National Trust). The path meanders through mixed woodland with lovely views of the tidal creeks, rounding St Winnow Point before reaching the historic riverside church of St Winnow. The return takes you up through rolling fields with sweeping views over the River Fowey, past the grand house of Ethy, and back into Lerryn. At low tide, you can finish the walk with the fun option of crossing the stepping stones back to the pub.
The Barley Sheaf, Gorran
15 miles from Le Dorney Villas – Walking Route 5.5 miles
This varied circular walk from Gorran Haven takes you through quiet valleys, farmland, and woodland before joining the South West Coast Path for spectacular sea views. The inland stretch passes meadows, streams, and historic farmsteads before reaching Portmellon Cove. From here, the route climbs to Chapel Point, with panoramic views across Mevagissey Bay, then follows the cliff path past secluded coves and headlands into Gorran Haven. The return is an easy loop through lanes and farmland back to the village pub.
The Blue Peter Inn, Polperro
16 miles from Le Dorney Villas – Walking Route 5.45 miles
From Crumplehorn, walk into Polperro Harbour and climb up behind the Blue Peter Inn onto the coast path. The route follows dramatic cliffs past Chapel Cliff with sweeping sea views before a challenging climb up Raphael Cliff and across combes and valleys towards open farmland. From here, wide panoramas stretch across Bodmin Moor, Dartmoor, and even the Lizard Peninsula on a clear day. The return loops inland via quiet lanes and tracks, before descending back into Polperro and rejoining the harbour for a relaxed finish.