Exploring Cornwall’s coastline through a guided walk along the South West Coast Path offers a refreshing way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and literary ties. The Fowey: Gribbin Head Daymark Tower Guided Walk combines breathtaking vistas, historical insights, and a chance to climb a historic lighthouse-like tower—all in a manageable 2.5-hour circular route. It’s a small-group experience that provides a quiet, personable alternative to larger tours, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, snap photos, and soak in the scenery.
What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the stunning coastal views from clifftops and rocky coves are truly captivating. Second, the literary connections—notably with Daphne du Maurier—add an extra layer of interest for fans of Cornwall’s storytelling tradition. Third, the optional climb up the Gribbin Head Daymark Tower offers a rewarding panoramic perspective, weather permitting. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the walking terrain, which involves some ascent and descent on rough, uneven ground—good shoes are a must. This walk suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, history, and a touch of adventure, and who don’t mind a bit of physical activity.
Good To Know
- Stunning coastal scenery with views over rocky coves and sandy beaches.
- A small group experience, limited to 8 participants, for a more personal touch.
- The option to climb the historic Daymark Tower, weather and access permitting.
- An engaging guide, Lucy Daniel, who shares local history and literary stories.
- The route includes part of England’s longest National Trail along the South West Coast Path.
- Discount options available for those arriving by public transport or holding a PARD CARD.
An Authentic Coastal Journey through Cornwall
Walking along the South West Coast Path with a knowledgeable guide transforms a simple hike into an engaging exploration of Cornwall’s beauty and stories. This tour starts at the Coombe Farm National Trust Car Park, a convenient spot with limited parking, so arriving early is wise—especially in peak season when the car park can fill quickly. Once underway, you’re treated to sweeping views that stretch out over the sea, with the path gently climbing over clifftops, passing rocky coves, and skirting sandy beaches.
The walk covers about 3.5 miles in total, making it suitable for most levels of fitness—though you should be prepared for some uneven ground and modest ascents. The terrain is typical of coastal walking, so sturdy footwear is essential. As you trek, your guide, Lucy, shares fascinating details about the area’s history, including its links to Daphne du Maurier, who drew inspiration from Polridmouth Cove, and the history of the Daymark Tower itself. The tower, visible from miles around, is accessible on certain days, which makes the climb a real highlight, offering spectacular views after a short ascent.
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Highlights of the Walk and Tower Climb
Take a walk along England’s longest National Trail – The South West Coast Path offers an extraordinary corridor of natural beauty, and walking a segment of it immerses you in Cornwall’s rugged, unspoiled coastline. Expect to see rocky outcrops, sheltered coves, and sweeping vistas that reward every step.
Learn about the area’s literary connections – Daphne du Maurier’s influence pervades the region. Several reviewers noted how the guide’s stories made the landscape come alive, mentioning that “the walk felt like stepping into one of her novels,” heightening the experience for literary fans.
Climb the Gribbin Head Daymark Tower – When access is available, you get to ascend this historic structure—originally built as a navigational aid. The climb is not difficult, but it involves some narrow stairs and an open top, so it’s not suitable for those with vertigo or mobility issues. The views from the top are described as “absolutely worth the effort,” with the coastline unfurling in all directions.
Enjoy bird and wildlife spotting – While not explicitly detailed in reviews, the coastal environment provides ample opportunities to see seabirds, and you might spot other local wildlife along the trail.
Friendly guiding style – Lucy’s warm approach encourages questions and conversation, making the tour feel more like a walk with a knowledgeable friend rather than a formal lecture.
Practical Details and What to Bring
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, which strikes a perfect balance between a leisurely exploration and a satisfying outing. It’s priced at $40.41 per person, representing good value considering the included tower entry and the personalized attention in a small group. Additional benefits include discounts for those arriving by public transport (using the GOODJOURNEY code) and cardholders with a PARD CARD—making it accessible and budget-friendly.
Participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Bringing a camera or phone to capture the stunning views is highly recommended, along with a litre of water to stay hydrated.
The tour is designed for those who are comfortable with minor climbs and uneven ground but is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with vertigo. The small group size—max 8 people—ensures a more intimate experience but also means punctuality is key, especially if parking is tight.
The Route Breakdown
Starting at the Coombe Farm National Trust Car Park, the walk begins with a gentle ascent toward the clifftops, providing immediate views of the coastline. The path then winds along the edge of the cliffs, passing rocky coves—each more striking than the last. Polridmouth Cove, which inspired Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca, is a particular highlight—its quiet beauty often leaving visitors speechless.
Throughout the walk, Lucy shares stories about the area’s history and literary significance, enriching the scenery with context. The terrain can be rugged underfoot, so expect some rocky patches and slopes. The optional climb up the Daymark Tower offers a quick but rewarding ascent, with panoramic views translating into perfect photo opportunities.
The walk concludes back at the starting point, completing a scenic 3.5-mile circuit that balances sightseeing, storytelling, and gentle exercise.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAuthenticity and Insider Tips
Many reviews mention how the guide’s stories add depth to the landscape, making the scenery more meaningful. “The guide’s enthusiasm about Cornwall’s literary history made the views even more special,” one reviewer noted. Another added, “Climbing the tower gave us a new appreciation for how navigators once used it to find their way along the coast.”
A common tip is to arrive early to secure parking and to bring layers, as weather can change quickly on the coast. If the tower isn’t open, don’t worry—the walk on its own is still spectacular, with plenty of photo ops and wildlife encounters.
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The Sum Up
This guided walk along the South West Coast Path in Fowey is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a blend of stunning scenery, cultural richness, and light physical activity. The inclusion of the Daymark Tower enhances the experience, offering a tangible link to maritime history and unbeatable views. The small-group setting, friendly guiding style, and flexible booking options make it a practical and enjoyable outing.
Ideal for those who love nature, history, or literary connections, this tour provides a genuine taste of Cornwall’s coastal charm. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, you’ll walk away with not only photos but also stories to tell and memories to cherish.
FAQ
Is the walk suitable for all fitness levels? The walk involves some gentle climbs and uneven terrain, so good footwear is important. It’s accessible for most reasonably fit travelers but not recommended for those with vertigo or mobility issues.
How long is the walk? The route covers approximately 3.5 miles and takes about 2.5 hours, allowing for plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Can I climb the Daymark Tower? Yes, access to the tower is available on certain days, weather and availability permitting. Check with the guide on the day of your tour.
What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera or phone, and at least 1 litre of water are recommended.
Is parking easy? Parking at Coombe Farm NT Car Park is limited and can fill up during peak times. Arriving early or parking in Fowey and walking to the meeting point is advised.
Are discounts available? Yes, for travelers arriving by public transport (using the GOODJOURNEY code) and PARD CARD holders. Remember to bring proof of your travel.
Is this tour family-friendly? While suitable for most ages, the terrain and climb may not suit very young children or those with vertigo. It’s best for older children and adults comfortable on uneven ground.
What if I need to cancel? Full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.
This tour offers a superb way to combine coastal beauty, literary history, and a touch of adventure—all in just a few hours. Perfect for those seeking an authentic experience that’s both picturesque and meaningful.
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