Location Guide: Kynance Cove

September 30th, 2022

Kynance cove is one of the best beaches to visit on the Lizard Peninsula and is known worldwide for being one of the most beautiful beaches. With its famous beautiful white sand to squidge your toes in, a fascinating mixture of red and green jagged rocks and luscious turquoise waters, this place is a remarkable sight. 

In this guide, we will be discovering Kynance Cove and all its wonders!

How Do I Get To Kynance Cove?

If you are driving, go South on the A3083 towards the Lizard Peninsula. When you are approximately half a mile from the village of Lizard, keep an eye out for a brown sign that says Kynance. You will then follow the road to Kynance, and the beach car park will be signposted. Watch out for the speed bumps down to the car park!

If you have a SatNav or use maps on your phone, you can make it easier using the postcode: TR12 7PJ. This postcode will take you straight to Kynance Cove. 

The 37 bus runs to Lizard is the closest stop to Kynance Cove. From the bus stop, it is a mile walk to Kynance Cove.

Is There Parking At Kynance Cove?

Yes! Parking is situated at the top of the cliff. During the summer, this is a staffed car park and a pay and display system is provided by the national trust throughout the year. Be aware that Kynance Cove can be super busy during the summer season, and the car park can fill up quickly! It is best to arrive before 11 am to guarantee a car parking space.

Can You Walk Down to Kynance Cove?

Once you have parked your car in the car park and grabbed your beach gear, it is roughly a fifteen-minute walk down to the beach! Along the way, there are some sensational spots to stop and take in the beautiful scenery.

Cornwall provides some of the best beaches for walks. If you stroll along the South West coastal path, you will stumble upon Kynance Cove. The beach is a two-and-a-half-mile walk from Lizard Point; this walk is the perfect opportunity to take in Cornish nature.

What is Kynance Cove Famous For?

The sheer beauty of Kynance Cove alone is enough reason to visit. Famous for its stunning white sandy beach and turquoise waters, it seems you are abroad! At low tide, it is the perfect opportunity to explore the rocks and caves. You could easily spend hours discovering the area with many fascinating formations and mysterious coves.

Can You Swim at Kynance Cove? 

A fascinating part of the beach is the sea, and you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters.

The sea uncovers secret coves to explore, but keep an eye out for the tide to ensure you don’t get caught! The last thing you want is to be standing on a rock, to find the sea has gone in and your only way back to shore is to swim.

What is at Kynance Cove?

Suppose you haven’t packed a picnic, do not worry! There is a brilliant eco-friendly cafe located just above the beach. The Kynance Cove Cafe sells an array of delicious food, from iconic Cornish pasties and fresh sandwiches to homemade cakes and cream teas. The cafe also sells beach goods if you forget to bring some beachy essentials. 

The cafe also comes equipped with toilets! There is also a toilet located in the car park.

Is Kynance Cove Dog Friendly?

Yes! During the winter months, you can take your four-legged friends down to Kynance Cove for a furry adventure. Splashing around in the water, running around different coves and playing fetch on the beach will be so much fun for any pup who puts its paws onto the sand. 

However, in the high season, between 1st July – 31st August, there is a seasonal dog ban. This dog ban is daily from 10 am – 6 pm. But do not worry, though! There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall with dogs not too far from Kynance Cove that will provide endless fun for you and your pup.

How Safe is Kynance Cove?

There are so many rocks and coves to explore once the sea leaves the sand, so there is a chance of injury. Please keep yourself safe by staying on the main beach areas, and do not put yourself in harm’s way.

As mentioned earlier, you must keep an eye on the tide to ensure you are not caught. Additionally, please be aware that lifeguards do not man Kynance Cove, so enter the sea at your own risk. If you are looking for beaches with lifeguards, check out our guide to family friendly beaches in Cornwall for more information.

Our beautiful range of holiday cottages in Cornwall is available to book now! These stunning cottages are the perfect companion for exploring the fantastic place of Kynance Cove. Don’t hesitate to contact us at 01872 862194 or book online for reservations or inquiries.

Flowers on the Cornish Coastline

January 18th, 2021

Cornwall is renowned for its gorgeous countryside and coastline, and with so much space for wildlife and nature, there are plenty of brilliant blooms to be spotted.

 

As we head into summer months, the flowers are out in full force, popping up over the Cornish coastline in a stunning display of colour and life. As the days begin to warm up, wildflower meadows can be spotted along coast paths, adding to the spectacular sea views!

 

Here are just a few of the flower varieties you may see when out and about by the Cornish coast!

 

* While at the moment, we can only admire this wildlife through our screens, once it is safe to travel again, why not come to see the coastline and wildflowers for yourself? Our 5-star cottages in Cornwall would make the perfect base for your adventures in Cornwall. 

 

Alexanders

This flower thrives in salty air, making it a common sight atop cliffs around Cornwall. The tall plant features bursts of small yellow flowers, which have a distinctive smell.

 

Originally, the plant was introduced to the UK by the Romans, when it was used as a foodstuff, as it is edible. While not many people would consider munching on one of these flowers nowadays, they are still enjoyed by many a horse!

 

English Stonecrop

This dainty succulent will be found all over the coastline and other rocky areas in Cornwall.

 

The red buds of the plant burst into star-shaped white blooms, scattering some colour across the rocky faces of each cliff.

 

Sea Campion

Found in clumps along most coast paths, this flower grows well on the coastal grasses found atop cliffs. The purple-tinged buds open up to reveal neat white flowers.

 

As a maritime species, it is almost solely found around the seaside in Britain.

 

Sheep’s-Bit

As well as being found in grasslands, the round, blue heads of the Sheep’s-bit flower can also be found along cliffs.

 

Growing between May and September near to the sea, this plant is often found alongside many others, forming a flowery carpet.

 

Oxeye Daisy

While daisies can be found countrywide, beautiful swathes of these larger oxeye daisies spread across the coast and countryside in Cornwall. These flowers are out in full force over the summer months.

 

Oxeye daisies are also known as ‘Moon Daisies’, as their bright white petals appear to glow as the day turns to night.

 

Sea Carrot

Another plant for the summer months, the sea carrot pops up with rounded flowerheads across the South coast. It predominantly grows in grass areas on the tops of cliffs and in sturdier sand dunes.

 

The saucer-shaped heads contain many tiny flowers in pink or white.

 

Spring Squill

These star-shaped purpley-blue flowers can be found in grassy spots near to the sea. The flowers on this compact plant are often crammed close together, forming a dainty cluster.

 

Like most coastal plants, they are a low-growing flower. A member of the lily family, the spring squill is also related to bluebells and wild garlic, although they do not have a smell!

 

 

What is your favourite Cornish coastal wildflower? Let us know via our social media channels! If you love flowers, gardens and nature, then you should also check out five of the best gardens in Cornwall.

 

Image Credit: Rod Allday

The Best Cornish Beaches for Walks

September 18th, 2020

If you’re staying in one of our sought-after dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall, no doubt you are looking forward to some beautiful walks along the coast! Cornwall is inundated with beautiful beaches across its coastline, attracting avid walkers every year!

 

All our beaches featured are perfect for walking with or without a dog, and we advise on the best times to visit if you are with your furry friend!

 

Our Chosen Locations

There are many beautiful beach walks in the county, so to narrow down our top picks, we have mainly focussed on the southern area of Cornwall below Truro.

 

Many of our chosen locations feature stunning walks either on the beach or surrounding it; you may notice the South West Coast Path features in a few of our sites!

 

Gwithian Towans Beach

 

As Cornwall’s longest beach, Gwithian had to feature on our list.

 

The beach lies between Hayle and Godrevy, and the whole stretch of golden sand can be accessed when the tide is low. Three miles in length, it is the perfect place for those who want to take off their shoes and walk with their toes in the sand.

 

When the surf is pumping, the beach becomes a showground of surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing displays! The rolling sand dunes behind the beach are also perfect for those who want an adventure.

 

Note, dogs are not permitted on the beach during July and August.

 

Buried History

 

One of the main appeals of the beach is its great history! A buried castle is believed to exist beneath the sand belonging to a man called Tendar, an alleged ‘Pagan persecutor of Christians’.

 

A medieval chapel, St Govian’s, is also rumoured to lie beneath the sand dunes and was last seen in the 1940s!

 

The Lighthouse

 

At one end of the beach, you will find the beautiful Godrevy Lighthouse, built to signify the dangerous Storms Reef.

 

Situated just in front of the beach, it makes a stunning photograph, especially on stormier days or during a fiery sunset!

 

Sennen Cove

 

Sennen is a favourite hotspot for surfers. The stunning cove is lined with beautiful white sand, and it is the perfect place for those hoping to try their hand at watersports; the beach is lifeguarded during the summer season, and there are plenty of surf schools to provide extra guidance!

 

If you want to stick solely to walking, the beach and surrounding areas provide many stunning walks for visitors to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll across the beach and absorb the dramatic coastline and hub of activity.

 

Note that dogs are not permitted on Sennen Beach from 5th May to 30th September between the times of 10am and 6pm.

 

If you have more energy to blow off, follow the South West Coast Path to other close-by locations including Land’s End to the South and Gwenver beach to the north, which is a dog-friendly beach throughout the year.

 

Walking to Land’s End from Sennen

 

Only 1.5 km to Land’s End, Sennen is the perfect base to start an exploration to the famous tourist hotspot at the tip of the county.

 

It is a reasonably easy walk, with almost no steep inclines throughout the hike. If you fancy a different path to the way you came, there are a few circular routes you can take to return to Sennen.

 

Nanjizal Beach

If you are feeling particularly energetic, you can continue on the South West coast path down towards Nanjizal Beach once you have reached Land’s End.

 

Nanjizal Beach is a beautiful secluded beach which isn’t easily accessible by car, so walking is the best way to get there and well worth the visit if you are feeling up to it!

 

It is famous for the Song of the Sea, a captivating natural rock arch which floods with beautiful light in the sun. The beach welcomes dogs all year round!

 

Gyllyngvase Beach

One of Falmouth’s favourite and largest beaches, the bright turquoise waters of Gyllyngvase Beach attracts many visitors throughout the year.

 

Only a 10-minute walk from Falmouth’s town centre, it is easily accessible and a family favourite due to its calm waters and pretty sand. The beach is also a great starting point for coastal walks to other must-see spots including Swanpool Beach and Maenporth.

 

Note that dogs are not permitted on Sennen Beach from 5th May to 30th September between the times of 10am and 6pm.

 

Porthleven

Porthleven is a pretty fishing village on the south coast of Cornwall. The beach is sandy and is accessible to other spots in the area including Loe Bar, just up from the beach in a 40 minutes’ walk.

 

Longer walks along the South West Coast Past from Porthleven include Mullion and Praa Sands which are situated either side of the beach.

 

Which of our featured beaches will you be looking forward to strolling on? Have we missed your favourite location for a beach walk? Why not share your thoughts with us on our social media channels; we would love to know more about your favourite hikes!

Guide to Cornwall’s South Coast

August 30th, 2019

Cornwall is a popular holiday destination in the UK, mainly due to its scenic and picturesque landscape. There are numerous spots in Cornwall that offer some stunning views, but perhaps the most breath-taking scenes are along the South Coast. With over 300 beautiful beaches varying from golden sand to pebbly and dog-friendly to secluded havens, there are many to discover! You will also find pretty little towns to discover, so we have decided to set up a guide so you can see the best of Cornwall!

Beaches

Of course, no trip to the coast is complete without visiting the beach! Cornwall is home to some beautiful beaches, especially along the south coast.

Porthpean Beach, St Austell

Near the historic village of Charlestown, Porthpean Beach is a popular beach, especially with families. With safe sea swimming and plenty of space for beach games and sandcastles, it is the perfect spot for a beach day out! Toilets facilities are available, and there is also a car park, but be aware, there is a relatively steep incline between the car park and the beach. If you are looking to bring your pup, there is a seasonal dog ban in place, but outside of this period, your four-legged friends are free to run around and jump in the sea.

Pendower Beach, Truro

Now, this is the beach for the dogs as they are welcomed all year round! But please be aware that they ask you to keep them on leads during the summer months due to it being busier. Pendower is a soft sand south-facing beach and boasts excellent views along the coastline. Along the back of the beach are some low soft cliffs and rock pools. Take the time to go rock pooling as it is an excellent opportunity to spend some quality time with the kids discovering some fascinating creatures lurking in the waters. There are many other activities to enjoy here, from surfing and sailing to fishing and snorkelling! Additionally, there are toilet facilities as well as tea and coffee on offer.

Whitsand Bay, Torpoint

With an impressive three miles of golden sands, Whitsand Bay is an excellent beach to visit. The gorgeous beach is considered one of Cornwall’s hidden gems as it is relatively unknown and, therefore, never crowded. The long stretch of sand offers a great opportunity for a stroll or jog along the sea. If that isn’t really your thing and you prefer to relax, then there is plenty of space to set up your lounger without being elbow-to-elbow with other visitors. In terms of activities, there are numerous rock pools dotted along the beach and then out at sea the bay is a popular place to go diving. Whitsand Bay is home to HMS Scylla, an ex-naval frigate that sadly sunk in 2004 but has since taken the form an artificial reef. Between May and September, the beach is monitored by lifeguards at different points but do take care when swimming as the current can get dangerous in certain areas.

Towns

Along the south coast of Cornwall, there are plenty of stunning little towns to discover. Take a stroll down the winding streets and stop for a bite to eat by the seaside, what better way to spend your holiday?

Falmouth

A well-known coastal town, Falmouth is home to some brilliant shops, delicious food and picturesque views. Perhaps what it is most famous for is its abundance of boats; Falmouth has the world’s third-largest natural deep-water harbour making it a boat haven. The view of the sea with the bobbing boats makes Falmouth an admired town by many walkers and those who enjoy alfresco dining. But that isn’t all that this beautiful coastal town has to offer; Falmouth is also a brilliant spot for families. From boat trips and beaches to castles and parks, there is plenty for all the family to do. For more information on this brilliant town, take a look at our blog on how to spend a day in Falmouth!

Marazion

Situated near Penzance, Marazion is a stunning seaside town with lots to see and do! Home to the ever famous St Michael’s Mount, this coastal town is home to two soft sandy beaches, which are perfect for a family day out. Patrolled by the RNLI in the summer months, you can be assured that you and the kids can have fun by the sea while remaining safe. Take a picnic and a bucket and spade and make a day of it! There is also a park called The Folly Field, which is an excellent place for the kids to burn off some energy – it is full of climbing frames, slides, swings, and so much more. Furthermore, the South West Coastal Path runs right through Marazion, so why not take a stroll along the scenic route?

St Ives

A seaside town so luscious and blue that you would think you were abroad! St Ives is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful locations in the whole of Cornwall, if not the UK. Along with the beautiful coastline and azure waters, St Ives is home to a wonderful array of independent retailers. Take a wander through the winding cobbled streets and have a nosey around some brilliant little boutiques then stop for a bite to eat in a cute little pub.

We hope we have inspired you to visit the gorgeous south coast of Cornwall. If you would like to book a getaway to the seaside, take a look at our child-friendly cottages in Cornwall, so that the whole family can join in on the fun. To make it even better, our accommodation is also dog-friendly, so bring along your pup and have an incredible holiday!

18 Things to Do in Cornwall in 2018

May 02nd, 2018

Somehow we’re now in the fifth month of the year, so now may be the perfect time to look back on your 2018 bucket list and think of what you still have left to do! With summer fast approaching, we’re re-sharing our top 18 things to do in Cornwall in 2018, in the hopes that it will inspire you to come and visit us here in the most beautiful coastal county! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday to Cornwall, short breaks for two, or a luxury trip away with friends, there’s something for everyone:

 

1. Minack Theatre

A stage like no other, the Minack is an open air theatre nestled into the cliff tops in Porthcurno. With breathtaking views of the surrounding bay, you’ll be in awe as you make your way down the staggered seating steps, carved into the granite cliffs. With performances running from May to September, it’s certainly a must see.

2. Surf Lesson

Cornwall is one of the top surfing destinations in the world, so if you’re heading to the county for your holiday, remember to bring a wetsuit and try and catch some waves. If you don’t know how yet, then it’s time to get a lesson. While there are surf schools all along the coast, by far the greatest surfing spot is on Fistral beach, where all of the top surfing competitions take place in the UK.

3. Walk the Coast Path

Obviously it’s too ambitious to attempt the whole 300 mile stretch at once, but there are plenty of different walks available around the county. Get a map of Cornwall and mark off which paths you’ve walked as you do them. Maybe by the end of the year, your map will be complete!

4. Bude Sea Pool

Want the natural feel of swimming in the sea without as many risks? Try the Sea Pool in Bude. The free to use pool is semi-natural, built in the 1930s underneath the cliffs to form the experience of being in the sea, without having to face the ferocity of the waves.

5. Take Part in a Feast Night at The Hidden Hut

By day a quaint sea-side lunch spot, by night (on selected evenings), a rustic open-air feast extraganza. Buy a ticket and bring your own plate to receive a serving of the best local produce cooked outdoors on their wood-fire, charcoal grill or massive paella pans. Previous offerings have included wood-fired seafood paella, lobster & chips, slow-roasted lamb, and pulled pork with sticky ribs.

6. Experience the Waterfalls at St Nectans Glen

St. Nectan’s Glen is home to three truly spectacular waterfalls. The most famous of these is the magical St. Nectan’s Kieve, where the river has worn it’s way through the slate, creating a fascinating hole which has transformed the river into a magnificent 50 foot waterfall! Walkways through the stunning woodland take you to a further two waterfalls, one of which is a hidden gem, only recently discovered and opened to the public!

7. St. Michael’s Mount

It is one of the most famous landmarks in Cornwall for a reason. From the island you can experience the picturesque panoramic views of the bay, and to Land’s End. While you’re there, explore the spectacular castle and the luscious gardens, as well as the stunning harbour.

8. Bodmin Jail

Discover the history of this 18th Century jail with thrilling tours and activities. If you’re brave, there are after dark activities, like taking part in the night time ghost walks. If that’s not enough spookiness for you, every Thursday a scary movie is screened in the jail, followed by a tour through the historic building accompanied by a Medium.

9. Tate St. Ives

A gallery space featuring work by modern British artists with links to St. Ives. As part of the Tate art institution, the collection here is impressive and exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.

 

10. Barbara Hepworth

Another spot in St. Ives for those interested in art, the Barbara Hepworth museum, set within the sculptor and artists home and gardens, is a stunning sight that absolutely must feature on your Cornwall bucket list. This is perfect for garden lovers too, as you will quickly see where Hepworth gained her inspiration as you stroll through the gardens accompanying her studio.

11. Camel Valley Vineyard

Is there a better way to spend an afternoon in the sun than at an award-winning vineyard that serves up top-quality wines? With guided tours and wine tasting sessions, you’ll learn all about the grape growing and winery processes, with the added bonus of a refreshing glass of red, white or bubbly!

12. Rick Stein Cookery Course

Pick up some top tips and hone your kitchen skills with the very best. With daytime courses running for a wide variety of cuisines, from shellfish to Indian Curry and from Italian to Far Eastern dishes, there’s certainly something for everyone to enjoy! Alternatively, if you just fancy a treat on your holiday, then grab a delicious portion of fish and chips from Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips in Padstow.

13. Eat a Proper Cornish Pasty

Yes, you can get a pasty from pretty much any bakery around the country. But will it be as good as a traditional Cornish bake, fresh out of the oven? No!

14. Visit the Eden Project

Home to the largest indoor rainforest, this will be an educational day out like never before. For an even more intensive experience, or for something new for repeat visitors; head up high and soar over the biomes on the 60mph SkyWire!

15. Visit Land’s End

With stunning views and an incredible coastline, Land’s End is the perfect spot to roam the cliff tops. Take your camera to keep some memories of the picturesque scenery on display. Looking into the sea surrounding you, it’s even possible to catch a glimpse of exciting marine life, such as seals, dolphins and even basking sharks!

16. Catch Your Own Supper

Being a coastal county, with almost every area surrounded by water, it is no surprise that fishing and sea food make up a major part of the Cornish life. Why not join in on a fishing trip at any of Cornwall’s harbours and reel in a bite for dinner?

17. Visit a National Trust Property

The National Trust currently manages and maintains over 40% of the Cornish coastline, but they also tend to a large number of the finest properties in Cornwall. There are so many to choose from, including the stunning Cotehele House and Lanhydrock House.

18. Explore the Cornish Mining Heritage

Cornwall is renowned for its mining heritage, with many sites to visit, explore and learn about throughout the county. From Poldark Mine, featuring a museum and tour to the Levant Mine, near Land’s End, which houses the oldest beam engine in Cornwall; now in full working order having been restored in recent years.

 

Which of these things would you like to try? Let us know which feature on your 2018 bucket list, or if there any attractions in Cornwall that you are planning to visit that we haven’t included!