Cape Cornwall
A dramatic headland offering breathtaking coastal views, powerful waves, and a touch of mining history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Witness nature's raw power
Cape Cornwall
Best Time
Witness nature's raw power
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic headland offering breathtaking coastal views, powerful waves, and a touch of mining history.
"The views are absolutely breathtaking, endless ocean, dramatic cliffs, and a feeling that you’re standing on the very edge of England."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Weather Forecast
Cornwall's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Be prepared for wind and rain. :cloud_rain:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Chimney
Cape Cornwall Headland
A striking reminder of Cornwall's mining past, standing sentinel against the vast Atlantic.
Dramatic Coastal Views
Entire Headland
Breathtaking panoramas of the rugged coastline and the endless ocean stretching to the horizon.
Storm Watching Spectacle
Cape Cornwall Headland
Witness the raw power of the Atlantic as massive waves crash against the cliffs during storms.
+2
Coastal Path Exploration
South West Coast Path
Hike sections of the famous path for varied perspectives of the headland and surrounding coves.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
+1Timing is Key for Views
+2 For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting outside peak season or during off-peak hours. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Weather Forecast
Cornwall's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Be prepared for wind and rain. :cloud_rain:
National Trust Parking
Parking is available and free for National Trust members. :car:
Cafe & Toilets Available
There's a cafe and facilities at the car park. :coffee: :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Check Weather Forecast
Cornwall's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Be prepared for wind and rain. :cloud_rain:
National Trust Parking
Parking is available and free for National Trust members. :car:
Cafe & Toilets Available
There's a cafe and facilities at the car park. :coffee: :toilet:
Steep Sections
The walk to the top can be steep, but manageable for most. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cape Cornwall for its breathtaking, raw, and stunning natural beauty, highlighting the dramatic coastal views and the powerful ocean. The historic mining chimney adds a unique touch, and many find the peaceful atmosphere unforgettable. Some note the steepness of the walk and the unpredictable weather, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending sunset visits.
"Visiting Cape Cornwall was one of the highlights of my trip. The views are absolutely breathtaking , endless ocean, dramatic cliffs, and a feeling that you’re standing on the very edge of England. I could have stayed there for hours just watching the waves crash against the rocks and listening to the soothing sound of the sea.
The old mining chimney adds a unique touch of history to the landscape, but really it’s the views and the peaceful atmosphere that make this place unforgettable. Raw, stunning, and calming a spot I’ll never forget."
Mahsa kianpour
"The Ocean surrounding Cape Cornwall is just magnificent during and storm - This is Storm Amy October 2025"
Nicola James
"Car park free for National trust members. Great access to the Coast Path. Great vistas."
Steve Christian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape Cornwall is located near St. Just in Penwith, about 4 miles north of Land's End. The most common way to reach it is by car, following signs for Cape Cornwall. There's a National Trust car park available.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park at Cape Cornwall. It's free for National Trust members. This car park also has a cafe and toilets.
Cape Cornwall is part of the South West Coast Path, making it accessible for walkers. You can incorporate it into longer coastal walks.
While St Ives is a popular destination in Cornwall, Cape Cornwall is located further west, closer to Land's End and the town of St. Just.
Many visitors recommend visiting during or after a storm to witness the dramatic waves. For a quieter experience, aim for off-peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the headland itself is free. However, parking in the National Trust car park is free for National Trust members. Non-members may incur a parking fee.
Cape Cornwall is an open natural landscape and is accessible at all times. The car park and facilities may have specific operating hours.
While there aren't typically formal guided tours, local walking groups or guides may offer excursions. Checking local tourism websites or visitor centers is recommended.
Absolutely! Cape Cornwall makes for a fantastic day trip, especially when combined with nearby attractions like St. Just or Land's End.
Yes, there are various accommodation options in the surrounding areas, including holiday cottages and hotels. Keywords like 'holiday cottage cape cornwall' and 'cape cornwall hotels' can help you find options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include enjoying the dramatic coastal views, walking the South West Coast Path, and observing the powerful waves, especially during storms.
Cape Cornwall is a photographer's dream, offering stunning seascapes, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic chimney.
Yes, the National Trust car park offers a cafe and toilets. Annie in the car park has been noted for her friendliness.
The walk can be a bit steep, but it's generally manageable for most people. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
The prominent chimney is a remnant of Cornwall's tin mining heritage, a significant part of the region's industrial past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a cafe located at the National Trust car park at Cape Cornwall. For more extensive dining options, the nearby town of St. Just offers pubs and cafes.
Yes, Cape Cornwall is a beautiful spot for a picnic. Remember to take all your litter with you to preserve the natural beauty.
You can expect traditional Cornish fare, including fresh seafood, pasties, and local ciders.
While specific restaurant recommendations for the immediate vicinity of Cape Cornwall are scarce, exploring St. Just or venturing towards St. Ives will offer more choices. +1
Yes, you can pick up pasties or other takeaway items from St. Just or St. Ives and enjoy them with the stunning views at Cape Cornwall.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic mining chimney against the sea, dramatic wave action during storms, sweeping coastal vistas, and the rugged cliffs are prime subjects.
Sunset offers beautiful golden hour light, while stormy weather provides dramatic and powerful imagery. +1 Early morning can also offer softer light and fewer crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant seabirds. A sturdy tripod is essential for long exposures during storms or at sunset.
The entire headland offers numerous viewpoints. Experiment with different angles from the coastal path and near the chimney.
Drone usage is subject to regulations and permissions. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the National Trust regarding drone operation in the area to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The presence of a cafe and toilets at the car park adds convenience for families. For a more engaging experience, consider turning the visit into a mini-adventure. Encourage kids to spot seabirds, look for interesting rock formations, or imagine the lives of the miners who once worked here.
The sheer power of the waves, especially on a windy day, can be a thrilling sight for younger visitors, but always ensure they stay a safe distance from the water's edge. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The dramatic cliffs, the powerful Atlantic waves, and the historical mining remnants provide a rich tapestry for exploration. +1Consider tackling sections of the coast path that lead to or from Cape Cornwall, such as the route to Botallack, to fully appreciate the rugged beauty of the area.
The Kenidjack Valley is often cited as a particularly beautiful and wild section. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various seabirds that frequent the cliffs. The sense of remoteness and the raw, untamed nature of the landscape are what draw many enthusiasts to this part of Cornwall. 📸 Photographers
+3 The best light can be found during sunrise and sunset, casting a warm glow over the landscape. +2Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive seascapes and a telephoto lens for details or wildlife. A tripod is essential for long exposures, especially in low light or during storms.
Experiment with different viewpoints along the coastal path to find unique compositions. Remember to protect your gear from the sea spray and wind. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of the Atlantic: Storm Watching at Cape Cornwall
+4 This raw display of nature's force is a major draw for visitors seeking thrilling experiences and unique photographic opportunities. When planning a visit with the intention of witnessing storms, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Always maintain a safe distance from the water's edge and be aware of changing conditions. Travelers often describe the experience as humbling and awe-inspiring. The sheer scale of the waves and the relentless energy of the sea create a profound connection with the natural world.
While storms offer the most dramatic visuals, even on calmer days, the constant movement of the sea against the rugged coastline is captivating. The sound of the waves and the salty air contribute to a truly immersive sensory experience. For those interested in storm chasing, checking weather forecasts and local reports is essential. Websites and social media accounts dedicated to Cornish weather often provide updates on approaching storms.
+1 Remember that while the spectacle is incredible, safety should always be the top priority. A Walk Through History: The Mining Heritage of Cape Cornwall
Exploring the area, you can often find remnants of old mine workings, further illustrating the industrial past.
The South West Coast Path, which passes through Cape Cornwall, often highlights these historical sites, providing context and information for walkers. Understanding this heritage enriches the visitor's appreciation for the landscape, connecting the present-day natural splendor with the industrious spirit of Cornwall's past. For those interested in delving deeper, local museums or heritage centers in nearby towns like St. Just can offer more detailed information about the mining industry and its impact on the region.
Navigating the Coast Path: Trails and Vistas
+1 Walkers can embark on routes that lead to or from the headland, each promising unique perspectives of the dramatic Cornish coastline. The path itself can be varied, ranging from well-trodden tracks to more rugged and challenging sections, demanding appropriate footwear and a good level of fitness. +1Popular routes include the walk from Cape Cornwall to Botallack, which showcases the iconic Crown Mines and the Kenidjack Valley, a place described as having a 'raw, rugged beauty'.
+1 These walks are not just about the physical journey but also about immersing oneself in the stunning natural scenery, from the vast expanse of the Atlantic to the intricate details of the cliffside flora. +1 The ever-changing light and weather conditions add to the dynamic beauty of these coastal hikes. When planning a coastal walk, it's advisable to check tide times and weather forecasts, as some sections may be affected by high tides or become more challenging in adverse conditions.
+1 Carrying water and snacks is also recommended, especially for longer treks. The National Trust car park at Cape Cornwall serves as a convenient starting or ending point for many of these explorations. 
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