Cadgwith Cove
49° 59' 4" N 5° 10' 41" WCadgwith Cove is a small fishing village located on the Lizard Peninsula.
Cadgwith is the last full-time traditionally operated fishing cove in Cornwall and is as rustic and charming as a Cornish cove could be.
The small shingle beach is located at the end of the little valley that accommodates the village. There is also a smaller, less accessible beach adjoining.
A little further south along the coast path is the Devil’s Frying Pan, a 200-foot deep hole in the cliffs formed many years ago when a cave collapsed.
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- Carpark (Charges apply)
- Public Toilets
- Café (Seasonal)
- Shop
- Restaurants
- Hazard: Cliffs
- Hazard: Tides (Rising / Falling)
- Limited access for wheelchairs
- Lifeguards not available
- Dogs allowed (All year)
- 10 minute walk from carpark
History of Cadgwith Cove
Cadgwith Cove is a small fishing village located on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall. The village has a long and rich history, dating back to the early medieval period, when it was a thriving fishing community.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Cadgwith Cove became a hub for smuggling, with local fishermen using their knowledge of the coastline to help smugglers bring contraband goods ashore. The village’s narrow streets and hidden alleyways provided the perfect hiding places for smugglers and their illicit goods, and the local authorities were often powerless to stop them.
In the 19th century, Cadgwith Cove became an important centre for the pilchard fishing industry, with dozens of boats operating out of the village’s small harbour. The village also played a key role in the development of the lifeboat industry, with the Cadgwith Cove Lifeboat Station being established in 1867 to provide rescue services along the treacherous coastline.
Today, Cadgwith Cove is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque harbour, stunning coastline, and rich history. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow streets and alleys, sample fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, or take a boat tour along the coastline to see the village from a different perspective. The village also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including traditional Cornish festivals and music concerts.
Travel / Parking information for Cadgwith Cove
Directions to Cadgwith Cove
Cadgwith Cove is only 20 minutes from Helston by car. Follow signs towards Ruan Minor and at the cross roads turn right and follow directions towards the car park at the top of the village.
Parking for Cadgwith Cove
Cadgwith Cove car park is located at the top of the village. It's best to avoid driving through the village itself as it is very narrow. The car park provides a good location to explore the village and surrounding coastline.
