Cape Cornwall
50° 7' 31" N 5° 42' 28" WCape Cornwall is a striking headland located near the town of St Just on Cornwall’s rugged west coast.
Cape Cornwall was thought to be the most westerly point in Britain until the Ordnance Survey revealed it was actually Land’s End. This is the only Cape in England, being a place where two channels or oceans meet, and part of the Tin Coast and Cornish Mining World Heritage Site.
The headland juts out into the Atlantic, marking the point where the currents of the English Channel and the Celtic Sea meet. This area is ideal for walkers, with the South West Coast Path running along the cape, providing stunning views and a chance to spot local wildlife. Cape Cornwall is also home to the distinctive chimney stack, a remnant of the area’s mining history, which has become an iconic landmark. The chimney stack on the top of the hill was built to service the tin and copper mine that worked here in the mid 19th century. There is a still a small fishing fleet that operates off Priest Cove, a sheltered beach just to the south of the headland.
There is a National Coastwatch position on the cape and it is a well known wildlife watching spot for dolphins and seabirds.
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- Carpark (National Trust)
- Public Toilets
- Cafés (Seasonal)
- Hazard: Cliffs
- Hazard: Mine shafts / workings
- Dogs allowed (All year)
- 10 minute walk from carpark
History of Cape Cornwall
Cape Cornwall has a unique place in Cornish history, not least because it was once thought to be the westernmost point of England until that title was later assigned to Land’s End.
The cape has strong connections to Cornwall’s mining heritage, as evidenced by the remains of the Cape Cornwall Mine, which operated during the 19th century. The mine’s chimney stack, preserved by the National Trust, stands as a testament to the region’s rich mining past.
The area surrounding Cape Cornwall was part of a thriving tin mining industry that dominated Cornwall for centuries, with mines scattered across the nearby cliffs and valleys. Archaeological finds in the area suggest human activity dating back to prehistoric times, and the ancient field systems still visible in the landscape hint at early agricultural practices.
Today, Cape Cornwall is a site of historical interest, with many visitors drawn not only by its scenic beauty but also by its cultural and industrial heritage. The site was acquired by the National Trust in 1987, helping to preserve its natural and historical significance for future generations.
Travel / Parking information for Cape Cornwall
Directions to Cape Cornwall
From the A30, take the A3071 towards St Just. Continue through the town and follow signs for Cape Cornwall. It’s about a 15-minute drive from St Just down a narrow single road, the car park is located on the left hand side as you approach the headland.
Parking for Cape Cornwall
There is a small car park located near Cape Cornwall. It's known as Cape Cornwall Car Park, and it's the closest parking area to the Cape. However, this car park has limited space, and it can fill up quickly during peak times, so it's a good idea to arrive early.