The Saint's Way
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The Saints Way is a fascinating pilgrim path that winds through the tranquil heart of Cornwall, offering a glimpse into the county’s spiritual and historical past. Beginning in the charming seaside town of Padstow, renowned for its fresh seafood and culinary excellence, the route follows ancient tracks and crosses historic bridges once travelled by Celtic saints and early Christian pilgrims seeking a safe passage to the European mainland.
Along the journey, walkers will encounter remnants of Cornwall’s religious heritage, including medieval churches and sacred wells, echoing the footsteps of those who walked this path centuries ago. The trail culminates in the historic harbour town of Fowey, situated on a deep estuary that opens to the English Channel.
At a glance
The Saints Way is the easiest of Cornwall’s coast-to-coast routes, stretching 27 miles from Padstow on the north coast to Fowey on the south coast. This trail is also a segment of the longer Cornish Celtic Way, a 125-mile pilgrimage that connects many of the county’s most sacred sites.
Typically completed in a few days, the Saints Way offers walkers a journey through key elements of Cornwall’s spiritual heritage. The route also passes through a nature reserve, providing ample opportunities to appreciate the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Also known as the Mariner’s Way, this trail winds through lush valleys, serene woodlands, and picturesque Cornish villages. It is believed to have been a favoured route for early Celtic traders from Ireland and Wales, who used it to avoid the treacherous waters and pirates around Land’s End and the southern tip of Cornwall.
Difficulty
Considered an easy to moderate route, the Saints Way can be enjoyed either in individual sections or as part of a multi-day trek. The terrain is gentler than Cornwall’s rugged coastal paths, featuring a mix of roads, woodland trails, and the occasional stile.
For those looking to tackle the entire route in one go, it can be completed in two to three days, depending on your desired pace and level of challenge. The trail is well-marked with distinctive black and yellow signage, making it easy to navigate without the need for support.
Highlights
The Saints Way offers not only a journey through Cornwall’s unique spiritual heritage but also an immersion in the region’s stunning natural beauty. As you walk in the footsteps of the saints, the trail leads you through nature reserves, charming harbours, and dramatic Cornish coastline.
Start in the fishing town of Padstow, with sweeping views over the Camel Estuary. The first point of interest is St Petroc’s Church, originally built in the sixth century before being rebuilt following its destruction by Viking raiders.
From here, make your way along hidden inland creeks, past old lead and silver mines. Climb away from the estuary and towards St Breock’s Down, the highest point of the trail where you will find Men Gurta Longstone, Cornwall’s largest standing Menhir. Along the way you’ll encounter ancient manor settlements including the “Wolf Pit”. The route continues through Helman Tor Nature Reserve, a mosaic of habitats that includes heathland, scrub, bogs, and ancient woodland.
This area is not only rich in natural beauty but also holds spiritual significance, with Helman Tor itself being an ancient hilltop fortification offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Day two ends at Lanlivery, where one of the oldest pubs in Cornwall stands. A medieval focal point in its own right, the Crown Inn dates back to the twelfth century.
Be sure to visit St. Sampson’s Church in Golant, another medieval gem with roots in the early Christian history of Cornwall. Afterwards, follow a tranquil stretch of the Fowey River as you near the end of the journey.
Fowey, famous for its sailing culture and its connection to the celebrated author Daphne du Maurier, provides a scenic conclusion to this spiritual and scenic pilgrimage.
When is the best time to visit?
You can enjoy the Saints Way any time of year, though like most walking routes, the shoulder seasons are best. During these times, paths are more tranquil and accommodation is more readily available.
In spring, Cornish hedgerows burst into bloom with foxgloves, violets and primroses. The longer daylight hours and mild temperatures make this an inviting time for outdoor exploration.
Autumn, with its cooler yet comfortable weather, is perfect for hiking. The warm tones of the season also provide an excellent backdrop for birdwatching. This time of year is prime time for starling murmurations and the re-emergence of robins. Plus, spotting rare species of fungi like hazel gloves fungus.
Accessibility
The Saints Way is fairly steep in places, with some large stiles to climb over. It is therefore not well-suited to prams, wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
The Camel Trail is a great alternative, with flat, paved terrain. You can join the trail at Padstow which is the start of an 18-mile waterfront route.
Itinerary
This three day itinerary takes you past all of the key landmarks, whilst allowing for relaxing afternoons and a leisurely walking pace.
Stage 1: Padstow to Withiel (10 miles)
Stage 2: Withiel to Lanlivery (10 miles)
Stage 3: Lanlivery to Fowey (8 miles)
Directions
The Saints Way Ordnance Survey map can be accessed via the itinerary link above. Alternatively, the route is available via the OS Maps app so you can access the route on your phone. You can also download the map as a gpx file.
The Saints Way guidebook provides route cards, mapping each section of the journey. It also includes information on key points of interest, facts on landmarks and wildlife and plenty of photographs.
Public transport and accommodation
Both Padstow and Fowey are accessible by bus, with regular services connecting to stations on the main London to Penzance rail line. Whilst public transport is available along the middle sections of the trail, multiple connections are needed which may require some planning.
Accommodation options are plentiful along the route, especially in the popular towns of Padstow and Fowey. However, it’s advisable to book lodgings well in advance, particularly during peak season. For more information on accommodation in Cornwall, visit the Visit Cornwall accommodation page.
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