Land’s End To Porthcurno On The South West Coast Path

Introduction

We are spending a week based in Newlyn with our friends Sue and Chris. We’ve spent a couple of days soaking up the culture and art history of Penzance and the “Newlyn School”.

The weather was fine and sunny, so I was delighted to get out to the coast, and enjoy the glorious Atlantic views and spectacular scenery.

It’s about 10 miles from Newlyn to Land’s End. Sue drove me over there, and I took the bus back from Porthcurno. The bus route calls at both ends of the walk, so is good for anyone to park in at either end and take the bus one way.

This walk isn’t ideal for dogs to be off lead. A substantial part is an RSPB reserve, where cattle roam to manage the grass. I imagine this is to keep it short for the choughs which feed on ants with their long, red, curved bill.

The walk took me 4 very leisurely hours including a long lunch. The OS app measured it at 5.34 miles, but the path is very twisty and up and down (1100 feet of ascent) and I reckon I walked over 7 miles to complete it!

Land’s End To Gwennap Head

It’s an iconic spot from which to set off.

I ignored the tourist trap, crossed the car park and took in the view of the nearby seabird island, Armed Knight. Longships lighthouse is prominent, yet rather ugly from here.

I located the coast path and wandered past Greeb Farm, also a tourist spot.

Moving on along the gravel path, I was stopped in my tracks….

by this 6 inch long beautiful adder!

After this, attention turned to the stunning cliffs, coves and gorse of this special place.

Up on the tops, cattle are being grazed, as mentioned in the Introduction, I suspect to keep the grass short for the ant hunting choughs.

I did get a close view of a chough gliding past, and landing about 50 yards away to feed.

However, much nearer, a pair of whatears, probably en route from Africa to Scandinavia.

Shortly, I arrived at Gwennap Head where there is a Coastguard Watch Station.

Gwennap Head To Porthcurno

Around the corner, attributed to “Trinity House “, are these rather striking painted beacons.

I was about to dive into my snacks, as I trundled downhill towards the hamlet of Porthgwarra, I thought maybe there’ll be a beach where I can spend lunchtime.

Arriving in the village, it was better than that, as this little shack provides great refreshments.

The potato, spiced red pepper and coconut soup was a joy.

now I went in search of the beach. I found a tunnel.

At the end of the tunnel is this secluded, sheltered cove, with clear blue waters and waves rolling gently over the rocks.

What a place. I relaxed here for quite a while!

I dragged myself away, admiring the next small cove where the village stream flows down to the sea.

The next cliff lay ahead of me. As I ascended, I kept looking back at beautiful Porthgwarra and the coves that followed.

I was nearing my journey’s end, but had time to rest awhile on the headland at Pedn-men-an-mere. Looking towards Porthcurno, the famous outdoor Minack Theatre can be seen.

I crossed the theatre car park to the top of the steep steps down towards the beach.

Five minutes later I was at the bus stop, and I enjoyed travelling outdoors on the open top double decker back to Newlyn.

If you’re ever in West Penwith, this walk is highly recommended!

And Finally

James have a new album out, called Yummy. This is the addictive Mobile God.