The best running trails around St. Ives

There are over 60 running routes around St. Ives, offering a diverse range of experiences for all ability levels. You'll find everything from easy coastal paths to more challenging hilly trails.

Jogging routes in St. Ives feature a varied terrain, including extensive coastal paths with breathtaking sea views, wide sandy beaches perfect for running at low tide (like Porthkidney Sands), and challenging hilly sections through woodlands and heathland. Some parts of the South West Coast Path can be rugged and even boggy, providing a true workout.

Yes, St. Ives offers a few easier running options, particularly along the beaches at low tide or on less strenuous sections of the coastal path. For a moderate experience, the St Ives and the Hemingfords Walk is a popular choice, covering about 6 miles with gentle elevation.

For a more challenging experience, consider routes that incorporate the rugged sections of the South West Coast Path, known for its roller-coaster climbs and descents. The St Ives and the Hemingfords Trail is a difficult 9.5-mile path offering varied terrain and a significant workout. Exploring areas around Trencrom Hill will also provide steep ascents and rewarding views.

Yes, there are several circular running routes. For example, the St Ives Town Centre – St Ives Quayside and Bridge loop from St. Ives is an 8.5-mile route that takes you through the town centre and along the quayside. The half-mile loop around The Island to St. Ives Head also offers fantastic views and is a popular starting point for runs.

St. Ives is rich in scenic vistas. You can enjoy panoramic views of St. Ives Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Notable landmarks include Godrevy Lighthouse, the lighthouse at St. Ives Head, and Knill's Monument, which offers particularly spectacular views. The rugged landscape also features remains of tin mines, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, adding a historical dimension to your run.

Many routes in St. Ives are easily accessible from the town centre, which is well-served by public transport, including a train station. The path from St. Ives to Carbis Bay, for instance, runs above the rail line and is convenient to access. You can start many coastal path runs directly from the town.

Many of the coastal paths and open spaces around St. Ives are dog-friendly, though it's always advisable to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or cliffs. Some beaches have seasonal restrictions for dogs, so it's best to check local signage. Steeple Woodland Nature Reserve is a great option for running with dogs.

The running routes in St. Ives are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the variety of terrain from sandy beaches to challenging clifftop paths, and the opportunity to combine a workout with exploring an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

While St. Ives is primarily known for its coastal beauty, you can find routes that incorporate natural reserves. For example, the Chinese Bridge, Godmanchester – Houghton Mill loop from St. Ives is a longer, more difficult route that passes near areas like Godmanchester Nature Reserve (Godmanchester Nature Reserve) and Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve (Fen Drayton Lakes Nature Reserve), offering a different natural experience.

Yes, several routes offer glimpses of history. You can run past the historic Houghton Mill, or see the ancient St Ives Bridge and Chapel. The landscape itself is dotted with remnants of Cornwall's tin mining past, which are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, providing a historical backdrop to your run.

St. Ives offers great running opportunities year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the coastal paths. Summer is popular for beach runs, especially at low tide, but can be busier. Winter runs offer dramatic scenery, though some coastal paths might be more rugged or boggy due to weather conditions.