Portreath is a fishing village on the north coast with a historic harbour.
The beach at Portreath is mostly sandy which is set in a steep valley. To the western end of the beach are high cliffs and another smaller cove which is separated at high tide. The other end of the beach is bounded by a granite wall which protects the narrow historic harbour. It is well worth taking a walk along the quayside to look at the perilous harbour mouth which ships once sailed through.
On the left-hand side, the beach has a small stream running down to the sea. Off the coast is the huge Gull Rock, which as the name suggests, is something of a haven for seabirds of all kinds.
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- Carpark (Charges apply)
- Public Toilets
- Café (Seasonal)
- Shops
- Restaurants
- Hazard: Mine shafts / workings
- Hazard: Tides (Rising / Falling)
- Hazard: Strong currents
- Lifeguards (Summer only)
- Dogs allowed (Winter only)
- 5 minute walk from carpark
History of Portreath
Portreath has a rich history that dates back to its origins as a small fishing village. The name ‘Portreath’, meaning ‘sandy cove’ in Cornish, reflects its geographical features which have played a pivotal role in its development. Historically, Portreath was an essential harbour during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, primarily used for the export of copper and tin from the prolific mines of the surrounding areas.
The port witnessed significant growth when it became the terminus for the Redruth and Chasewater Railway in 1824, which was engineered to facilitate the transportation of ore and coal. This railway was among the earliest of its kind, boosting the local economy and increasing the strategic importance of Portreath during the industrial boom in Cornwall.
The harbour was equipped with a unique system of tramroads and inclined planes to manage the loading of ships, a testament to the ingenuity of the time. As mining declined towards the end of the 19th century, the village’s focus gradually shifted from industrial shipping to local fishing and, eventually, tourism.
Travel / Parking information for Portreath
Directions to Portreath
To reach Portreath from the A30, exit at the Avers junction onto the A3047 towards Redruth. Follow the A3047 through Pool, then turn left onto the B3300, which leads directly into Portreath. The drive from the A30 exit to Portreath takes about 10 minutes.
Parking for Portreath
For parking in Portreath, there are several options available. The main car park is located near the beach at the end of the village, offering ample space. Additionally, there are smaller parking areas along the seafront and a few streets with limited free parking spots. During peak tourist season, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot due to high demand.