Loe Bar beach is a half mile shingle bank which separates the Loe, the largest natural fresh water lake in Cornwall, from the sea.
Loe Bar was originally the mouth of the River Cober which led to a harbour in Helston. However, by the 13th century the bar had cut Helston off from the sea and formed the pool.
Loe Bar has a reputation for being treacherous and over the years several lives have been lost. The combination of powerful waves, a steep slippery shingle bank and vicious currents make it a very dangerous stretch of beach. Swimming here is forbidden.
A popular route for walking, running and cycling is through Penrose estate which takes you around the pool and onto Loe Bar.
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- Carpark (Free)
- Hazard: Tides (Rising / Falling)
- Hazard: Strong currents
- Hazard: Deep Water
- No Fly Zone (NFZ) for Drones
- Lifeguards not available
- 30+ minutes walk from carpark
History of Loe Bar
Travel / Parking information for Loe Bar
Directions to Loe Bar
Loe Bar is accessible via the A394, turning off at Porthleven and following signs towards Penrose Estate, which offers a scenic route through lush woodlands.
Parking for Loe Bar
Parking is available at the Penrose Estate car park, which serves as a good starting point for walks to Loe Bar. The car park is managed by the National Trust and offers ample space, though it can fill up quickly during peak times. From the car park, a pleasant walk through the estate leads you directly to Loe Bar, making it an enjoyable and accessible outing.