Towanroath Shaft Engine House

Take this run along Cornwall’s north coast for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and a chance to get up close to old tin mines.

This lung-busting run from Porthtowan goes along a coast path to St Agnes Head, then heads inland through heathland up to St Agnes Beacon (630ft) before returning to the start point where an inviting beach bar awaits.

Stunningly perched on the high cliff tops along the run are old mine ruins such as the Towanroath Shaft engine house, which has UNESCO World Heritage status.

This old mine was used as a location in the hit TV drama Poldark, as well as the cliffs around Chapel Porth and St Agnes Head.

Some parts of this run – also suitable for a mountain bike ride or hike - are steep with difficult terrain, but the views make the effort worthwhile.

The loose-rock trails make it difficult for mountain bikes to climb the steep sections in the winter months.

But adrenaline-seeking mountain bike rider will enjoy the technical downhill sections and there are plenty of other trails to follow off from the coastal path.

The coastal path is popular with hikers and one option could be to continue along the coastal path to the town of Perranporth, instead of looping inland via St Agnes Beacon and back to Porthtowan.