4.6
(1118)
11,102
hikers
8
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Chacewater traverse a landscape shaped by its rich industrial heritage within the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region features rolling hills, steep-sided valleys carved by the Carnon River, and a mix of farmland, heath, and woodland. Many paths follow old miners' tracks, leading past historic engine houses and mine stacks. Elevated points like Carn Marth offer expansive views of the rural Cornish countryside.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
3
hikers
5.59km
01:32
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.37km
01:10
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
5.26km
01:25
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Wheal Busy forms part of the World Heritage Site through its importance to tin and copper mining during the 18th and 19th centuries and is also one of the historic mine sites on the Mineral Tramways Coast to Coast Trail, which links Devoran in the south with Portreath to the north. The extensive conservation work at Wheal Busy was facilitated by Natural England’s land management team in Cornwall, working in partnership with the landowners the Tregothnan Estate. The works were funded through a Higher-Level Stewardship agreement. Wheal Busy is thought to have its origins in the latter 1600s and during the following two centuries the mine was to experience important innovations in steam pumping technology. A Newcomen Atmospheric Engine was put to work by around 1726 and a Smeaton improved atmospheric engine was on site by the latter 1770s. The renowned Scottish engineer James Watt was also to personally oversee the installation of the first Boulton & Watt separate condenser engine to work in Cornwall, which started in September 1777. You can find more information about the conservation of this Engine House using the following link: https://www.cornishmining.org.uk/conservation/projects/2015-wheal-busy-scheduled-monument-conservation
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Great fun through the woods with lots of mineshafts to explore. Slightly knobbly tires will help!
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Good paths, easy way-finding, a bit overgrown at the very start, a former mining area, enjoyable walk.
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Quick and easy food from a local bakery. Not too special, but ideal for a mid ride snack.
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Here is a link to Historic England that gives an interesting account of Wheal Busy mine and the old Smith Building: https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1391151?section=official-list-entry
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There are 8 bus station hiking trails available around Chacewater. Most of these, 6 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.
Hikes around Chacewater often traverse a landscape rich in industrial heritage, featuring rolling hills, valleys carved by the Carnon River, and a mix of farmland, heath, and woodland. Many paths follow old miners' tracks, leading past historic engine houses and mine stacks. You can expect varied surfaces, from well-trodden paths to more rugged tracks in areas like the Great Wheal Busy Downs.
Yes, a significant number of the bus station hikes around Chacewater are rated as easy. For example, the Warrine Mine Shaft, Unity Wood – Killifreth Engine House loop from Chacewater is an easy 3.1 km route that offers a gentle introduction to the area's scenery and history.
Yes, many of the bus station hikes in Chacewater are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. An example is the Wheal Busy Smithy – Killifreth Engine House loop from Chacewater, which is an easy 5.8 km circular route.
Chacewater is within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so many trails feature remnants of its mining past. You can expect to see historic engine houses, mine stacks, and old miners' tracks. The iconic 7-arched Chacewater Viaduct, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is also a notable landmark in the area. The Bluebell Woods Near Scorrier – Killifreth Engine House loop from St. Day is one route where you can encounter such historical features.
Yes, several bus station hikes offer excellent viewpoints. Elevated points like Carn Marth provide expansive panoramas of the rural Cornish countryside. You might also find scenic views from North Hill, which is part of the Chacewater Trail 1. For coastal views, nearby Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins and St Agnes Beacon offer stunning vistas, though they may require a short additional journey from the bus station routes.
Many of the bus station hiking trails around Chacewater are suitable for families, especially the easy-rated routes. The Poldice Valley, for instance, offers family-friendly walking experiences with historical significance and classic countryside views. Always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Yes, many of the trails around Chacewater are dog-friendly, particularly those following old miners' tracks and through woodlands. However, always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or in areas with sensitive wildlife. It's advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or protected areas.
Spring and autumn are generally ideal for hiking in Chacewater, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings wildflowers, including bluebells in areas like the Bluebell Woods Near Scorrier, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but paths can be busier. Winter hikes are possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on some tracks.
The komoot community rates hiking in Chacewater highly, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of natural beauty and rich mining heritage, the well-preserved historical sites, and the diverse landscapes that make every hike an exploration of both nature and history. The accessibility of many trails from bus stations is also a frequently appreciated aspect.
While specific routes listed here don't explicitly detail pub stops, Chacewater and nearby villages like St. Day have local pubs and cafes. Many bus station routes will pass through or near these settlements, making it possible to plan a hike that includes a refreshment break. It's recommended to check the route map and local amenities beforehand.


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