8 Peaceful Picnic Spots in West Cornwall
Getting outdoors more and enjoying the Cornish sunshine has been a refreshing distraction for most of us recently. The social distance picnic has become the new dining out, and you’re guaranteed a table with a view.
From rocky perches to sandy coves and cliff faces with glorious ocean views, pack a lunch and head to the west coast for dreamy picnic spots in Cornwall off the beaten track.
Logan Rock, Treen
A magnificent 80 ton rocking stone naturally balanced on the headland overlooking turquoise waters, Logan Rock and the surrounding cliff face offers breathtaking lunch views. Take a seat on one of the many rocky perches or lay your picnic blanket on the grassy patches for the most epic scenery.
Sandwiched between Pedn Vounder, Porthcurno Beach, and Penberth Cove, Logan Rock is a great stopping point for your picnic if you’re enjoying a lovely coastal walk.
Prussia Cove, Rosudgeon
A couple of miles west of Praa Sands sits Prussia Cove, also known as Bessy’s Cove. Nuzzled neatly on the south west coastal path, the charming cove’s name derives from the family of smugglers that once resided there, one of which was known as ‘the King of Prussia’. Its secluded location and mysterious character makes it easy to see why it was once used for landing and storing contraband. One of the more romantic picnic spots in Cornwall, this location ticks all the boxes.
Head in the direction of Praa Sands to explore a neighbouring secret beach and a stony walkway that leads to shingled caves and a boulder-scattered shore, or carry on past Prussia Cove for Perranuthnoe Beach.
The Lizard Point
The most southerly point of the UK, you’re spoilt for choice with al fresco dining spots on The Lizard Point. Spacious, grassy and rugged, wherever you decide to lay your picnic blanket you’ll be grazing against a backdrop of endless blue ocean and an invigorating salt breeze.
The Lizard’s quaint village is home to unique boutique gift shops, local pubs, lovely cafes and the infamous Ann’s pasty shop, a brightly painted yellow bakery in the heart of the village. If you didn’t have time to make a packed lunch, support The Lizard’s local businesses. Treat yourself to a pasty, a takeaway coffee or an ice-cream on a sunny day and drink in the gorgeous scenery.
Sennen Cove
Simply stunning all year round, Sennen Cove is a little less ‘off the beaten track’. However, there are still plenty of places to pitch up for a quiet picnic in the coastal village. Home to a collection of soft white sandy stretches, fishing boats and a nineteenth century lifeboat station, the Cornish beauty spot is also a popular destination for surfing.
Head up the coastal path towards Land’s End and marvel the views of the cove from above. You can also continue north past Sennen Cove where the equally pretty Gwynver Beach awaits. One of Cornwall’s dog friendly beaches, Gwynver is perfect for picnics with your pooches.
Botallack Mine, St Just
Botallack is a fascinating area to admire the old Cornish mines. A landscape peppered with structural remnants, brick ruins and abandoned mine shafts, the abundance of wild flowers and sound of thrashing waves hurtling against the dramatic coastline brings the historic cliffs to life.
Vast and spacious, this is one of the more rural picnic spots in Cornwall. Climb up the hilly coastal path for panoramic views, or brave getting up close and personal to the famous Botallack Mine that sits gingerly on a weathered crag.
Mousehole, Penzance
Mousehole, a picturesque fishing village famous for its Christmas lights, is definitely worth a visit in the warmer months. Clamber across the boulders and rocks on Salt Ponds Beach and choose a flat surface to sit and enjoy views across the bay. Spot St Michael’s Mount, Marazion Beach and even further afield on a clear day.
One unique feature of this beach is the natural sea pool, Mousehole’s answer to chilling poolside. Dip your toes in the sun-bathed salt water and gaze out to sea in true mermaid style. For a sandier beach head to the harbour during low tide, where fishing boats are dotted along the golden sand. The harbour walls provide the perfect suntrap for a spot of seaside tanning.
St Ives
Often referred to as the crown jewel of the Cornish coastline, St Ives is one of my favourite places. The seaside town oozes charm and Cornish character, and is renowned for its flawless natural light. Artists and creatives often flock to St Ives to paint, draw, photograph or write.
Despite being an incredibly popular tourist destination, you’d be surprised at the many private spots you can find. Head towards St Ives Head for bird’s eye views of the town and spectacular vantage points of Godrevy Lighthouse, Carbis Bay and Gwithian Beach. If it’s a sandy picnic spot you’re looking for, St Ives boasts five beaches in total. If you have a sweet tooth, a visit to Moomaid of Zennor’s ice-cream parlour is a must.
Church Cove, Gunwalloe
Discover another Cornish coastal gem at the end of a windy, narrow country lane on The Lizard peninsula. From the National Trust car park at Gunwalloe, take a stroll down to the appropriately named Church Cove Beach. Overlooking the sandy inlet is the medieval architecture of St Winwaloe church, a popular venue for Cornish weddings.
Neighbouring Church Cove is the slightly rockier Dollar Cove. Relish in brilliant ocean views whilst tucking into your picnic treats. A hidden treasure in more ways than one, there is a fascinating story behind the name. A Spanish shipwreck carrying silver dollars was lost just off the coast of the cove back in the 1600s. From then onwards, the cove has attracted treasure-hunters far and wide in search of the ancient dollars.
Packing a lunch?
For a proper Cornish picnic, give my Cornish pasty recipe a try. Take your homemade local bakes with you to one of these gorgeous picnic spots in Cornwall.
4 Comments
Jane Williams
Thank you so much Lisa for these recommendations. Your descriptions for all the destinations are fantastic.
Joanna Culley
Amazing post! These all look so beautiful, I will have to make a visit as soon as lockdown is over! Can’t wait to see Sennen Cove, especially since you were named after it! x
Lisa
Thanks Jo, yes once lockdown is over you’ll have to come and see for yourself, I know you’d love it!
Lisa
Thank you Jane, I’m so glad you enjoyed reading!