Chapel Cliff walk
Explore the rugged coastline and history of an old fishing community with this short but tough walk from Polperro village. Following part of the South West Coast Path, this circular trail explores a mysterious 19th-century boat building, the origins of St Peter's Chapel, and old fishermen's shelters and allotments. The woodland and scrubland paths also offer sweeping views across the coastline, reaching as far as south Devon on a clear day.
Cliff edges
This route passes cliff edges and unstable cliffs so please be careful and supervise children.
Total steps: 13
Total steps: 13
Start point
The shelter overlooking Polperro harbour, Polperro, PL13 2QY. Grid ref: SX209508
Step 1
Head west to follow the South West Coast Path.
Step 2
After 50yd (46m) keep left to take the lower path closest to the water.
Step 3
Keep on the path, passing a bench and a shelter. Chapel Cliff has several coastal paths, but the one nearest the sea is seen as the true coast path.
Step 4
Continue ahead, taking the steps up the hill. You'll pass some blocked-off caves on your right and a rocky outcrop.
Step 5
Keep heading west on the path as it joins with another track.
Step 6
Keep left at the fork to take the lower path through the privet trees.
Step 7
Follow the path as it leave the wooded area and bends around to the right. When you come to a right turn in the path, take this up the steps and across a spring.
Step 8
At the top start to head east, following signs for the coastal path back towards Polperro.
Step 9
Keep right at the fork to head down the hill.
Step 10
When you reach the bottom, you'll meet the path you were on previously. Retrace your steps a little way, but then keep left at the fork to take the upper branch of the South West Coast Path.
Step 11
At the next track junction, again stay left and pass two benches.
Step 12
At the waymarker, turn right to follow the path down the hill back to the starting point.
Step 13
As an optional extra, head up Peak Rock to get a closer look at the Net Loft.
End point
Net Loft, Peak Rock, Polperro Harbour, PL13 2QY. Grid ref: SX209508
Trail map
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