When you’re looking to stretch your legs and breathe in some fresh air, Truro, Cornwall offers a variety of short walks that boast scenic beauty, historical sites, and tranquil nature.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these walks provide the perfect quick escape into nature. Here’s a detailed rundown of the five best short walks near Truro, each offering its unique charm and sights:
5. Trelissick Garden Walk
Distance: About 2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Trelissick Garden car park
Terrain: Well-maintained paths with minor inclines
Nestled on the edge of the River Fal, the Trelissick Garden Walk is more than just a stroll through a garden. This National Trust property offers a beautifully curated landscape with a mix of woodlands, fields, and gardens that burst with color depending on the season.
The walk provides panoramic views over the Fal estuary, with paths that are well-suited for families and accessible for all ages. The highlights include the opportunity to explore the 19th-century house, vibrant gardens, and the stretching coastlines. The relatively flat paths make this a leisurely walk that promises peace and picturesque scenery.
4. Malpas Village River Walk
Distance: Approximately 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Sunny Corner in Truro
Terrain: Flat riverside path
This serene river walk links Truro to the small village of Malpas along the banks of the Truro River. Ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers, the path offers unspoiled views of the surrounding waterways and woodlands. Along the way, you can observe various marine and birdlife, making it a perfect educational walk for children as well.
The trail is straightforward and flat, which is great for a relaxing walk or a morning jog. Malpas also offers a charming village atmosphere with a couple of local pubs where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or lunch overlooking the river.
3. St. Clements to Tresillian Walk
Distance: About 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: St. Clement’s Church
Terrain: Mostly flat with some roadside walking
This walk explores the historic area between St. Clements and Tresillian, winding along the Tresillian River, an area rich in wildlife and natural beauty. The path, part of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s reserves, is teeming with birds and, during the right season, abundant wildflowers.
The route is primarily flat and follows a mix of footpaths and quiet village roads. Highlights include the old St. Clement’s Church, the scenic river backdrop, and the lush, green landscapes that are typical of Cornwall’s interior countryside.
2. Daubuz Moors Walk
Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Coosebean Lane
Terrain: Varied, with some wet areas
Located just a short drive from Truro city center, the Daubuz Moors offers a loop that feels surprisingly remote given its proximity to the city. This nature reserve features a diverse array of habitats, from woodland to freshwater marshes, making it a hotspot for wildlife, especially birdwatching.
The paths can be a bit muddy and wet, especially after rain, so proper footwear is recommended. It’s a fantastic spot for those looking to enjoy solitude and the natural environment without straying too far from the city.
1. Kenwyn Church Circular Walk
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Kenwyn Church
Terrain: Mixed terrain including some hills
The Kenwyn Church Circular Walk is a hidden gem that starts at the historic Kenwyn Church, which dates back to the 15th century. The route offers a mix of terrains, including wooded paths, open fields, and a few hills that provide beautiful views of the Truro skyline.
The variety in landscape makes this walk particularly engaging and a bit more challenging than the others on this list. It’s a great way to experience the Cornish countryside in a compact adventure.
