The Beaches of West Cornwall - W32 - Porth Nanven

This map is part of the Ordnance Survey's Explorer series designed to replace the old Pathfinder map series. At 1:25,000 scale this detailed map shows a host of attractions including gardens which are open to the public, nature reserves and country parks as well as all official footpaths, bridleways, roads and lanes. Other facilities covered include: camping and caravan sites, picnic areas and viewpoints, selected places of interest, rights of way information for England and Wales, National Trail and Recreational Path routes, and selected tourist information. The series is aimed mainly at the experienced map user but can be used by tourists and locals alike.

Location: North Coast - 3 miles north of Land's End

Dinosaur Eggs on Porth Nanven Beach

Porth Nanven lies at the seaward end of the Cot Valley near St Just in the far west of Cornwall. Lying between Cape Cornwall to the north and Sennen and Land's End to the south, it may be overlooked by the casual tourist. Those people who take the time to visit here are rewarded with some excellent views and there are good cliff walks using Nanven as a base. Seals have also been seen 'bottling' in the surf here. The cove has been known by a number of names over the years including Nanvar and Penanwell so don't be surprised if even the locals haven't heard of it.

Wheal Hermon at neighbouring Nanven Beach

The whole area has many many relics of the area's mining heritage. The small car park lies on the site of Bellan Mine whilst the ancient Wheal Hermon lies in the neighbouring cove of Nanven just to the south. All around the area there are shafts and adits so it is wise to keep to the paths. On the southern cliff there is a rock formerly used for rock drilling competitions on Feast Days. The amateur geologist will note the raised beach and the rounded granite boulders, some even know the beach as 'Dinosaur Egg Beach'.

Bubble Gum Rock, Porth Nanven

Some of the rocks near the low water mark have the appearance of large blobs of bubblegum and one in particular is known as 'Bubblegum Rock'. There are patches of sand at low tide and the beach is well worth a visit. The small car park fills quickly so arrive early to get the most out of this location. For more information click HERE.

Porth Nanven NT omega