Trevose Head Lighthouse
An iconic 1847 lighthouse on a dramatic headland, offering panoramic sea views and stunning coastal walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Trevose Head Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic 1847 lighthouse on a dramatic headland, offering panoramic sea views and stunning coastal walks.
"The influencer of the coastline, Trevose Head Lighthouse has been photobombing ocean views since 1847."
🚗 Narrow Road Alert
Be prepared for very narrow roads leading to the lighthouse. Drive slowly and carefully.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the coastal paths and enjoying the dramatic cliffside views. [:athletic_shoe:]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Trevose Head Lighthouse
North Cornwall Coast
An iconic 1847 lighthouse on dramatic cliffs, offering panoramic sea views and a sense of romantic drama.
Coastal Hiking Trails
Surrounding Headland
Explore breathtaking coastal paths with stunning views, leading to nearby beaches like Mother Ivey's and Booby's Bay.
Sunset Spectacles
Headland Viewpoints
A prime spot for watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky and sea with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Narrow Roads
Coastal Walk Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Narrow Road Alert
Be prepared for very narrow roads leading to the lighthouse. Drive slowly and carefully.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the coastal paths and enjoying the dramatic cliffside views. [:athletic_shoe:]
🌅 Sunset Magic
Trevose Head is a fantastic spot for sunset. Bring a picnic and enjoy the show! [:camerawithflash:] 
🅿️ Parking Fee
There's a National Trust car park, so be prepared for a parking fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Narrow Road Alert
Be prepared for very narrow roads leading to the lighthouse. Drive slowly and carefully.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the coastal paths and enjoying the dramatic cliffside views. [:athletic_shoe:]
🌅 Sunset Magic
Trevose Head is a fantastic spot for sunset. Bring a picnic and enjoy the show! [:camerawithflash:]
🅿️ Parking Fee
There's a National Trust car park, so be prepared for a parking fee.
🚫 No Facilities
Note that there are no toilets or facilities directly at the lighthouse.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the dramatic, panoramic sea views and the iconic presence of Trevose Head Lighthouse, calling it a 'must-visit' and the 'influencer of the coastline.' The location is praised as a great sunset spot and ideal for coastal walks, though the narrow access roads and lack of facilities are noted drawbacks.
"Very dramatic panoramic sea views from here. Well worth a visit. Quite a drive from the main road to the car park down very narrow roads but worth the effort. Great sunset spot too. Don't forget nearby is the historic Rock of ages."
Mark Burton
"“Bright, tall, and impossible to ignore — basically the influencer of the coastline. Trevose Head Lighthouse has been photobombing the ocean views here since 1847, and honestly, it hasn’t aged a bit. It’s the perfect spot if you like dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and pretending you’re in a moody romantic film. 11/10 — would stand here dramatically staring into the distance again.”"
Anton Ozerov
"Located on the north Cornish coast,
the striking tower is 89 feet (27 m) tall and has a fascinating history dating back to the year 1844,
eventually becoming a listed building in 1988. Surrounded by fantastic coastal hiking paths and breathtaking views. Parking for a fee."
J M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing Trevose Head involves driving down very narrow roads, so proceed with caution. The National Trust operates a car park nearby, which is the recommended parking spot for visitors.
While specific public transport routes directly to the lighthouse are limited, you can explore bus services to nearby towns like Padstow and then consider local taxis or longer walks.
Many visitors recommend a circular walk from Mother Ivey's Bay to Trevose Lighthouse and back via Booby's Bay for a scenic experience.
The primary challenge is the narrowness of the roads, not typically closures. Always drive with care and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
You can drive to the vicinity, but parking is available at the National Trust car park, from which you can walk to the lighthouse.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the grounds and viewing areas around Trevose Head Lighthouse is free. However, parking in the National Trust car park incurs a fee.
The lighthouse grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. The lighthouse itself may have specific tour times if available, but it's primarily a landmark to view from the outside.
There is no entrance fee to visit the lighthouse and its surrounding headland. Parking fees apply if you use the National Trust car park.
Access inside the lighthouse is not typically available for general visitors. It's a working lighthouse and a historical landmark to be admired from the exterior.
No booking is required for a general visit to Trevose Head Lighthouse. It's a public access area, though parking may require payment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy dramatic panoramic sea views, explore coastal hiking paths, watch for waves, and capture stunning sunset photos. It's a great spot for a picnic.
No, there are no toilets or facilities directly at Trevose Head Lighthouse. Visitors should come prepared.
Absolutely! It's a prime location for dramatic coastal photography, especially during sunset and golden hour.
Yes, Trevose Head is a great place for dog walks, with plenty of open space and coastal paths to explore.
The terrain is mostly grassy headland with well-trodden coastal paths. Be prepared for some uneven ground and inclines. [:athletic_shoe:]
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow.
The entire headland offers stunning vantage points. Look for dramatic cliff edges, the lighthouse against the sea, and sweeping coastal vistas.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Always check current rules before flying. Some impressive drone footage exists.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details of the lighthouse or distant sea.
The coastal weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for wind and sea spray. The dramatic cliffs require careful composition.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no specific play areas, the natural landscape itself is the playground. Encourage kids to look for interesting shells on nearby beaches like Booby's Bay or Mother Ivey's, or simply enjoy the feeling of being by the sea. Remember to keep a close eye on children near the cliff edges and be aware that there are no facilities like toilets or cafes on-site, so plan accordingly.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in places. The exposed nature of the headland means you can experience dramatic weather, so dressing in layers is advisable. The panoramic views and the invigorating sea air make every step worthwhile.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Chasers
+1Bring your best lenses and be prepared for breathtaking shots. The rugged cliffs, the powerful waves, and the historic lighthouse combine to create a truly unforgettable photographic experience. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light, so plan your visit accordingly to capture the most dramatic scenes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Trevose Head Lighthouse
In 1844, the idea for a lighthouse at Trevose Head began to take shape, and by 1847, its powerful beam was cutting through the darkness. The tower itself is 89 feet (27 m) tall and has been a Grade II listed building since 1988, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. The area is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, often shrouded in enchanting sea mists, adding to its atmospheric appeal.
Today, the lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime engineering and a popular destination for visitors. While it continues its vital role, it also serves as a focal point for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Cornish coastline. The history of Trevose Head is intertwined with the stories of countless ships and sailors who relied on its light for safe passage.
Exploring the Coastal Walks
The National Trust car park serves as a convenient starting point for many of these walks. The terrain is generally grassy with well-defined paths, though some sections can be uneven and involve inclines. Visitors often describe the views as dramatic and panoramic, making the effort of the walk incredibly rewarding, regardless of the weather.
These walks not only offer stunning vistas but also provide access to beautiful nearby beaches, perfect for a refreshing dip or simply relaxing by the sea. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for the elements, as the coastal environment can be exposed and windswept.
Photography Opportunities
+2Beyond the lighthouse, the surrounding coastal landscape is equally photogenic. Think rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and sweeping sea views that change dramatically with the light and weather. Photographers often recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – to capture the most atmospheric and visually appealing shots.
Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, Trevose Head offers endless possibilities for stunning imagery. Drone photography also captures a unique perspective of the lighthouse and its dramatic setting, showcasing the scale and beauty of the headland from above.
Social
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