Godrevy Lighthouse
An iconic 19th-century lighthouse on a rocky islet, offering dramatic coastal views and a chance to spot seals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour light
Godrevy Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic 19th-century lighthouse on a rocky islet, offering dramatic coastal views and a chance to spot seals.
"An iconic Cornish landmark that never disappoints – well worth a visit!"
🚗 Park & Explore
Use the pay-and-display car park for easy access to walks and views. :car:
🥾 Coastal Path Walks
Enjoy scenic walks along the cliffs with breathtaking views of the lighthouse and bay. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Godrevy Lighthouse
Rocky islet off the coast
An iconic 19th-century beacon, standing proudly against the dramatic Cornish coastline.
Godrevy Beach
Adjacent to the lighthouse
A beautiful stretch of sand perfect for walks, dog-friendly, and offering stunning views of the lighthouse.
Seal Spotting
Mutton Cove and surrounding waters
Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks or swimming in the clear waters below the cliffs.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park & Explore
Use the pay-and-display car park for easy access to walks and views. :car:
🥾 Coastal Path Walks
Enjoy scenic walks along the cliffs with breathtaking views of the lighthouse and bay. :walking:
🌊 Seal Spotting
Look for seals in Mutton Cove and the surrounding waters, especially at low tide. :seal:
📸 Sunset Photography
Capture stunning sunset shots of the lighthouse and coastline. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park & Explore
Use the pay-and-display car park for easy access to walks and views. :car:
🥾 Coastal Path Walks
Enjoy scenic walks along the cliffs with breathtaking views of the lighthouse and bay. :walking:
🌊 Seal Spotting
Look for seals in Mutton Cove and the surrounding waters, especially at low tide. :seal:
📸 Sunset Photography
Capture stunning sunset shots of the lighthouse and coastline. :camera:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Godrevy Beach is a great spot for dogs, offering plenty of space to roam. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Godrevy Lighthouse for its stunning beauty and iconic status, highlighting the dramatic coastal scenery and the charm of the lighthouse itself. The nearby beach and the potential to spot seals add to the appeal, making it a highly recommended spot for walks and photography. While parking is available, it's pay-and-display.
"There’s a pay and display car park close by with plenty of room, at least when we were there. Some nice walks and a beautiful view of the lighthouse and St Ives on the other side of the bay. We were told you might spot a seal or two but we didn’t see any."
Henrik Gravengaard
"Godrevy Lighthouse is such a beautiful sight! Standing proudly on its little island just off the coast, it looks absolutely stunning from the distance, especially against the backdrop of the sea and sky. There’s something really magical about seeing it across the water – it feels both dramatic and peaceful at the same time.
The surrounding area is just as lovely, with sweeping views along the coastline and plenty of great spots to stop and admire the scenery. Whether you’re walking the cliffs, relaxing on Godrevy Beach, or simply pausing to take it all in, the lighthouse makes the view truly special.
An iconic Cornish landmark that never disappoints – well worth a visit!"
Jason Owen
"Beautiful beaches and landscapes, parking spaces very close, everything you need to relax, walk your dogs or just enjoy the views."
Cristian B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Godrevy Lighthouse is accessible by car, with a pay-and-display car park located nearby. From the car park, it's a short walk to the lighthouse and surrounding coastal paths. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is a pay-and-display car park close to the National Trust site at Godrevy, which usually has plenty of room.
Yes, you can walk to Godrevy Lighthouse from the nearby car park. The coastal paths offer beautiful scenery along the way.
The nearest towns include St Ives and Hayle. The lighthouse is situated on the western edge of St Ives Bay.
Public transport to Godrevy Lighthouse can be challenging. While buses may serve nearby areas, a car is generally the most convenient way to reach the site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit the grounds and view Godrevy Lighthouse from the outside. Parking, however, is pay-and-display.
The lighthouse itself is not open for public tours as it's automated. The surrounding coastal paths and beaches are accessible at all times.
While the National Trust manages the land, there is no specific admission fee for accessing the coastal paths and viewing the lighthouse. Parking fees apply.
No, Godrevy Lighthouse is automated and not open for public tours inside. Its primary function is as a navigational aid.
Guided tours are not typically offered for Godrevy Lighthouse itself. However, local walking groups or the National Trust may occasionally host events or guided walks in the area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy scenic coastal walks, admire the lighthouse, relax on Godrevy Beach, and look for seals. The dramatic cliffs also offer great photography opportunities. +1
Yes, seals are often spotted basking on the rocks in Mutton Cove and swimming in the waters below the cliffs, especially during lower tides.
There are beautiful coastal walks along the cliffs, offering stunning views of the lighthouse, St Ives Bay, and the surrounding landscape.
Absolutely! The lighthouse, dramatic coastline, and potential for sunset views make it a prime spot for photographers. 
The terrain includes coastal paths, sandy beaches, and cliff edges. It's generally well-maintained but can be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon and sunset are ideal for photography, offering beautiful golden hour light that enhances the lighthouse and coastline.
Experiment with shots from the beach, the cliff tops, and even from further along the coast for different perspectives. Drone photography also captures unique aerial views.
The view from Godrevy Beach looking towards the lighthouse is classic. Also, explore the cliff paths for panoramic shots of the bay and lighthouse.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like seals. A tripod is beneficial for sunset shots.
Drone photography is popular here, offering stunning aerial perspectives of the lighthouse and coastline. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye out for seals – spotting them can be a highlight for younger visitors. The open coastal paths are perfect for a family stroll, but ensure children stay a safe distance from cliff edges. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially near cliff edges and wildlife. Always bring water and bags for waste. The pay-and-display car park is convenient for easy access to the beach and walking routes.
📸 Photographers & Artists
+1Explore different vantage points from the beach and the cliff paths. The chance to capture seals adds another layer of photographic interest. Drone photography is also popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the lighthouse and bay.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Inspiration of Godrevy Lighthouse
Beyond its practical function, Godrevy Lighthouse holds a special place in literary history. It is widely believed to have inspired Virginia Woolf's seminal novel, To the Lighthouse. The stark beauty and isolation of the setting are thought to have deeply influenced Woolf during her stays in Cornwall, imbuing the lighthouse with a sense of profound symbolism in her exploration of family, time, and perception.
Today, the lighthouse is a cherished part of the Cornish landscape, drawing visitors who come to admire its architecture, learn about its history, and soak in the dramatic coastal scenery. While you can't go inside, its presence on the islet is a powerful reminder of maritime heritage and artistic inspiration.
Exploring the Coastal Beauty and Wildlife
One of the most delightful aspects of visiting Godrevy is the chance to spot seals. These charming marine mammals are frequently seen basking on the rocks in Mutton Cove or playing in the clear waters below. Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during lower tides, are often the best times to catch a glimpse of them.
+1The landscape is also dotted with wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the rugged terrain, particularly in spring and summer. The combination of the iconic lighthouse, the sweeping bay views, and the potential for wildlife encounters makes Godrevy a truly captivating destination for those who appreciate natural beauty.
+1
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