The best hikes from bus stations around St. Day
4.6
(836)
7,398
hikers
23
hikes
Hiking around St. Day, Cornwall, offers routes through a landscape shaped by its rich industrial heritage. The terrain features rolling hills, open fields, and woodlands, with many pathways following old miners' tracks. Notable features include Carn Marth, rising to 755 feet (230 meters), and the historic Gwennap Pit, a terraced amphitheater. The area is part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing a unique backdrop for exploration.
Best bus station hiking trails around…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.5
(6)
7
hikers
6.03km
01:43
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
28
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2.5
(4)
9
hikers
4.08km
01:06
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
In tin production, ore was roasted above 300°C to remove impurities such as sulphur and arsenic which otherwise made the cast tin brittle. If arsenic was desired, fumes from the calciner passed through a long flue known as a 'lambreth' or labyrinth, where the gas cooled and condensed, forming arsenic crystals on the walls. When sufficient had collected, the calciners were stopped, iron doors in the lambreth were opened, and the arsenic ‘soot’ was swept off the walls and shovelled out. Workers put wads of cotton wool in their nostrils and a cloth over their mouths. and followed strict washing regulations, but still experienced skin irritations. Some workers were believed to have developed partial immunity, and folklore suggested arsenic improved complexion and hair condition. The lambreth had a tall stack at the end to create a strong through draught and also to reduce the damage caused by the noxious fumes.
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Built in 1897, this calciner was used to roast arsenic ore - check out the date above the archway. Arsenic gas was driven off by the heat and travelled towards the stack higher up the hill and through the labyrinth, or lambreth, where it condensed on the walls. See this link for a diagram of the Brunton roasting furnace with the revolving hearth upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/af/Brunton_roasting_furnace.png
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This is a welcome stop and popular with both hikers and cyclists.
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Impressive industrial remains, a great place to walk but note the warning signs related to the tailings from Mount Wellington, in the lagoons, which contain heavy metals and arsenic.
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Everything a cyclist needs. Great food, great drinks and a selection of essential spares.
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As well as great food and drinks, this fabulous cafe carries cycle parts and essential spares. Just brilliant.
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Non-technical downhill and nearly always in great condition - no mud!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available around St. Day?
There are over 20 bus station hiking trails around St. Day, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. Most of these routes are considered easy to moderate.
What makes hiking around St. Day unique?
Hiking around St. Day offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich industrial heritage. The trails often follow old miners' tracks through rolling hills, open fields, and woodlands, showcasing the area's past as a copper mining hub and its status as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll encounter historic engine houses, old mining chimneys, and quarries.
Are there circular routes available that start from bus stops?
Yes, many of the trails are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same bus stop. For example, the Gwennap Pit – Carn Marth Quarry Pool loop from Carharrack is a popular circular option, offering a moderate climb and scenic views.
Are these bus station trails suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many trails around St. Day are family-friendly, particularly the easier routes. The Hiking loop from Carharrack is an easy 4 km trail that's great for a family outing, providing a gentle introduction to the local landscape.
Can I bring my dog on these hiking trails?
Most trails in the St. Day area are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep your dog on a lead, especially when passing through livestock fields or nature reserves. The varied terrain, from open fields to woodlands, provides an enjoyable experience for both you and your canine companion.
What kind of historical sites can I expect to see along these routes?
The St. Day area is rich in mining history. You can expect to see numerous remnants of Cornwall's industrial past, such as old engine houses, mining chimneys, and disused quarries. The Poldice Valley Mining Ruins – Old Mining Chimney and Ruins loop from Carharrack is an excellent choice for exploring these historical features.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots accessible from the bus station trails?
Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. Carn Marth, rising to 755 feet, provides incredible views over inland Cornwall. You can experience this on routes like the Gwennap Pit – Carn Marth Quarry Pool loop. Additionally, the area around Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool offers striking vistas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the bus station trails in St. Day?
The trails around St. Day are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the fascinating historical context provided by the mining heritage, and the convenience of starting directly from public transport hubs.
Are there any trails that feature water bodies or natural monuments?
Yes, some trails will lead you past interesting water features and natural monuments. For instance, the area around Carn Marth and Hick's Quarry Pool includes a flooded quarry. While not directly on a bus station trail, the impressive Basset's Cove, a natural monument with ancient sedimentary rocks, is also nearby and worth exploring.
What is the best time of year to hike these trails?
The trails around St. Day can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, especially bluebells in areas like those found on the Bluebell Woods Near Scorrier – Killifreth Engine House loop from Carharrack. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the paths are generally accessible, offering a quieter experience of the historic landscapes.
Are there any less-known or 'hidden gem' trails accessible by bus?
While many routes are popular, exploring slightly off the main paths can reveal quieter spots. The Old Mining Chimney and Ruins – Poldice Mine Loop Stone Marker loop from Carharrack offers a glimpse into the mining past on a slightly shorter, less frequented path, providing a sense of discovery.
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