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
More near here
Polruan to Polperro rollercoaster walk
A strenuous walk high above turquoise seas and white sandy beaches, and through prime fishing and smuggling territory.
Lansallos coastal and woodland walk
Discover this trail with a stretch of coastline that offers secluded coves and beaches in Lansallos, Cornwall.
Struddicks circular walk
Explore the rugged Cornish coastline, unkempt wilderness, sea views, coastal ponies and other resident wildlife on this short but demanding circular walk that starts in Seaton, Cornwall.
Whitsand Bay circular walk
Explore the coastline around Whitsand Bay on this circular walk between Tregantle Fort and Crafthole, full of wildlife, military history and smuggling stories.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Walking in Cornwall
From strolls that reward you with stunning views of the South West coast to gentle inland meanders, these are some of the best walks in Cornwall.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Top coastal walks
Explore some of the UK's most famous natural landmarks on a coastal walk. With a variety of walking trails offering clifftop views, golden sands and local wildlife, there's a walk for everyone.
Exploring the area around Lansallos
Discover the places to visit in and around this Cornish village, including sandy coves, ancient churches, old water mills and landmarks from its smuggling heyday.
Visiting Lansallos with your dog
Find out everything you need to know about bringing your dog to Lansallos, which welcomes dogs all year round.