The tiny granite village of Zennor, seven miles west of St Ives, is the starting point for some of the wildest and most rewarding coastal walking in Cornwall. The short walk out to Zennor Head gives stunning views over Pendour Cove and across to Gurnard’s Head. For something more ambitious, the coast path east towards St Ives is spectacular — look out for grey seals at The Carracks rock stacks offshore. The 12th-century church in the village contains the famous carved Mermaid of Zennor bench-end. Reward yourself afterwards at The Tinners’ Arms, one of Cornwall’s most characterful pubs. Note: the coastal path involves serious scrambling over boulders in places — proper footwear essential.