Walk through Cornwall | Carnewas & Bedruthan
30th March 2015
Roughly halfway between Newquay and Padstow, just a few miles up the coast from Watergate Bay lies one of Cornwall’s most popular must-see spots.
The wow factor doesn’t even begin to cover it, but this piece of coastline keeps itself well hidden from the road and as you first enter the car park. Take a short walk along the well-trodden paths, a mix of hard earth and cobbled routes, and you will be rewarded that are arguably some of the best views in Cornwall.
Welcome to Carnewas. These giant granite pillars viewed from the imposing cliff tops have been carved out by the relentless action of thousands years of wind and waves. It’s hard not to gaze across the scene and imagine shipwrecks and smugglers.
Bedruthan beach is accessed via a very steep staircase – not for the faint hearted. Here the golden sands are punctuated by beautiful green pools. Visitors are reminded to take care as the steps can be submerged for two hours around high tide.
A longer walk along the coast will take you to Diggory’s Island and Booby’s Bay – download one of the walks via the National Trust here
Carnewas at Bedruthan has also been recognised by the Science & Technology Facilities Council as a Dark Skies Discovery Site. Due to its location away from street lights and no man made obstructions, it’s a place to marvel at the stars and night sky.
The area is owned by the National Trust, who also run the car park (remember to take a couple of pounds with you), shop and a popular café to sit and take in what you’ve just seen. The buildings are a reminder of Carenwas’ industrial past when iron, copper and lead was mined from the cliffs.
Alternatively, pack some food and enjoy the grass-lined picnic benches.
Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps is just a five minute drive from our properties at Watergate Bay, including our Village properties.
