A historic pilgrimage trail across Cornwall
The Saints’ Way, in the South West of England (Cornish: Forth an Syns) is a 30-mile long-distance path crossing Cornwall from Padstow on the north coast to Fowey on the south coast. It follows ancient pilgrimage and trade routes once used by travellers crossing Cornwall to avoid sailing the dangerous seas around Land’s End.
Today, it’s a popular choice for shorter walking holidays and outdoor adventures, offering a mix of coastal estuaries, rolling countryside, ancient churches, and historic towns. From fishing harbours to granite tors, and from river valleys to prehistoric sites, the Saints’ Way is a trail that blends heritage with varied Cornish scenery.
Trail Overview
- Type: Long-distance walking route (waymarked with a green Celtic cross)
- Distance: 30 miles (48 km)
- Start: Padstow, North Cornwall coast
- End: Fowey, South Cornwall coast
- Time required: 2–3 days (full route)
- Terrain: Farmland, moorland, estuaries, rivers, historic towns and villages
- Difficulty: Moderate — rolling countryside, some steep climbs
- Accessibility: Good waymarking; can be split into short sections or day walks
Explore the Route
Padstow to Lanivet
From the harbour town of Padstow, the path heads inland across farmland and wooded valleys, passing Iron Age earthworks, medieval churches, and the village of Lanivet, regarded as the geographical centre of Cornwall.
Lanivet to Lostwithiel
The route continues past ancient wayside crosses and Helman Tor, a granite hill with panoramic views. Descending into the Fowey Valley, walkers reach Lostwithiel, a historic town once the capital of Cornwall.
Lostwithiel to Fowey
The final stage follows the River Fowey estuary through lush woodland and riverside paths before reaching the bustling harbour town of Fowey, famous for its maritime heritage and literary links.
Stay and Explore
- Harbour towns: Padstow and Fowey, both full of seafood restaurants, pubs, and boutique stays
- Historic towns: Lostwithiel, with its castle ruins and medieval character
- Rural stays: Farm B&Bs and country inns around Lanivet and the Fowey Valley
- Food & drink: Cornwall is famous for fresh seafood, Cornish pasties, and locally brewed ales
- Cultural stops: Ancient churches, Celtic crosses, and Helman Tor’s prehistoric remains
Adventure Highlights
- Starting at Padstow Harbour and finishing at Fowey Harbour
- Pilgrimage heritage: churches, chapels, and Celtic crosses along the way
- Scenic climb to Helman Tor, with panoramic views over mid-Cornwall
- The medieval town of Lostwithiel
- Estuary walking along the River Fowey
- A true coast-to-coast trail in miniature (north to south Cornwall in 2–3 days)
