As someone who’s wandered through more than my fair share of trails with my husband and friends, the paths in Truro have always held a special place in my heart.
Today, I’m going to share with you the secret gems hidden in the lush landscapes of Truro, from the serene stretches along rivers and creeks to the mystical walks through ancient woodlands.
These aren’t your run-of-the-mill tourist tracks; they’re the walks that locals whisper about- The hidden gems that you wouldn’t know about unless you’re a real walking enthusiast!
Daubuz Moors
- Location: South of Truro city center
- Length: 2 miles
A delightful riverside walk that feels worlds away from urban clamor. This moor offers glimpses of rare wildlife and plant species, perfect for nature lovers. The path, which follows the river, includes well-maintained boardwalks and several resting points where walkers can enjoy the surrounding pastoral landscape.
Last spring, my husband and I ventured down this path. He was utterly fascinated by a particularly rare fern we stumbled upon, much to the amusement of a passing dog walker who suggested we might enjoy the plant life even more if we weren’t crouched in mud.
Kenwyn Church Circular
- Location: North of Truro city center
- Length: 3 miles
Starting and ending at the historic Kenwyn Church, this circular walk showcases the rural outskirts of Truro. The path traverses through rolling fields and wooded areas, offering panoramic views over the city and beyond.
A memorable venture with my husband involved getting mildly lost here despite the ‘circular’ nature of the trail. It seems panoramic views can become a bit disorientating. Nonetheless, the detour offered us an extended escape and more of the countryside to admire.
St. Clement to Tresillian Trail
- Location: East of Truro along the Tresillian River
- Length: 4 miles
This tranquil trail is best for bird watchers and autumn walkers, as the riverbanks burst into a riot of colors. The path is mostly flat, making it a gentle walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
I walked this trail with my friends during an unexpectedly vibrant autumn. The ‘riot of colors’ turned literal when one friend contested the other’s claim about identifying a kingfisher, only to discover it was a discarded crisp packet.
Idless Woods
- Location: Northwest of Truro
- Length: Various trails, up to 3 miles
Deep in the heart of Cornwall, Idless Woods offers a network of trails through ancient woodland. It’s a mystical place, especially in the morning mists. The woods are home to a plethora of flora and fauna, including the elusive British otter.
One foggy morning, as the woods were draped in mist, it felt like stepping into a fantasy novel. My husband remarked it was “mystical enough for fairies to appear,” which is whimsical for a man who considers cereal an acceptable dinner choice.
Malpas River Walk
- Location: South towards Malpas
- Length: Up to 2 miles
This peaceful path runs alongside the Truro River and leads to the quaint village of Malpas. Along the way, walkers can enjoy splendid water views and likely sightings of marine and bird life.
This was a solo trip after a slight disagreement with my husband about whether watching sports could be classified as ‘quality time.’ The peaceful river views were my silent yet charming companions, making a strong case against televised football.
Newham Trail
- Location: Along the River Allen
- Length: 2.5 miles
Following the industrial heart of Truro’s past, the Newham Trail lines the River Allen and passes by several historical industrial sites now reclaimed by nature. The trail is paved and suited for both walkers and bikers.
Here, alongside both friends, we enjoyed the reclaimed industrial sites. One friend pointed out that nature’s takeover was a “beautiful revenge,” her poetic reflection somewhat undermined by the other’s struggle with a malfunctioning bike chain.
Boscawen Park to Malpas
- Location: Along the Truro River
- Length: 3 miles
Connecting Boscawen Park to Malpas, this path not only offers lush river views but also includes the stunning Boscawen Park, famous for its sports facilities and well-maintained gardens.
My husband and I often walk this route. Last time, he tried to impress me by identifying various bird species, though his credibility faltered at “duck-faced warbler” – a bird suspiciously absent from any guidebook.
Coombe to Devoran Trail
- Location: Starts near Coombe village and ends in Devoran
- Length: 5 miles
Highlights: This former tramway is now a popular route for walkers and cyclists alike, cutting through dense woodland and alongside creeks with rich birdlife and occasional seals.
On a particularly ambitious outing with friends, we cycled this trail. It was memorable for the serene woodland and the less serene debate about whether the shortcut one suggested was actually a muddy swamp. It was, indeed, the latter.
Trelissick Garden Walk
- Location: Near Feock
- Length: Various trails, up to 5 miles
Part of the National Trust, these well-kept gardens and the adjoining woodland offer stunning views over the Fal River, exotic plant species, and a grand country house.
An anniversary walk here with my husband turned comical as we debated the names of several exotic plants, inventing identities like “Sneezewort” and “Bladderwort,” which, to our surprise, are real names.
Creekside Paths in Feock
- Location: Feock, winding through local creeks
- Length: Various, up to 4 miles
The secluded paths offer a quiet retreat into nature’s lap, with lush woodland and creek-side views. These paths are less frequented, offering a true sense of solitude and an intimate connection with the local flora and fauna.
This trail was a reflective solo journey, the quiet was a stark contrast to our usually bustling home, and I found talking to the trees less argumentative and rather refreshing.
