West Cornwall?

[Rob Archer]

I'm heading down to St Ives with the family for a few days next week. I don't know the area very well and I wouldn't mind tips of less-frequented spots. I'll be travelling on foot or by public transport and don't mind a decent walk. I like coastal landscapes but industrial archaeology also fascinates me. Any tips?

[Lostlabours]

Get the train to Penzance and walk West to Mousehole then eat and drink in The Ship, good pint of Tribute or Proper Job

Ian

[MartyNL]

Personally, I've always regretted not exploring Godrevy a little bit more. Especially, the rocks and great slabs of stone on the beach at the far end.

[Lostlabours]

Originally Posted by MartyNL

Personally, I've always regretted not exploring Godrevy a little bit more. Especially, the rocks and great slabs of stone on the beach at the far end.

Train to Hale then maybe 2hrs max to Godrevy Point by the coast path.

Ian

[MartyNL]

Rosewall Hill, west of St. Ives, has some interesting rocky outcrops.

[MartyNL]

Originally Posted by MartyNL

Rosewall Hill, west of St. Ives, has some interesting rocky outcrops.

Ditto Zennor Hill.

[MartyNL]

The Crowns engine houses at Botallack near St Just, are probably my favourite mine buildings in west Cornwall but to be honest, you shouldn't have to travel so far to find something interesting and worthy, mining-wise.

[Rob Archer]

It looks like 4 days isn't going to be enough! Thanks for the tips!

[B&W Neil]

Rob,

There is plenty to do in and around St Ives for a few days. Here's a few items for you:

• Tate Gallery - a must!
  
• Porthmeor Beach is very near the Tate Galley - low tide best.
  
• Harbour - especially at low tide.
  
• Explore the many interesting streets and back alleys in St Ives.
  
• Go around the many pasty shops in search of the perfect pasty! Also don’t forget the many exceptional galleries in St Ives.
  
• There’s a very good coastal walk from the west of St Ives to Zennor. You could do it all or go as far as you have time for - then double back.

Assuming you will be using the train from St Erth to St Ives try to find some RH window seats for the stunning coastal views over Godrevy Bay.

With industrial archaeology unfortunately there is not that much left in the immediate St Ives area. But just along the coast to Botallak there are some items remaining that are well worth a look at, especially the amazing Crown Mines.

From May onwards an open upper deck bus runs west from St Ives along the coast road to Lands End. It’s a great way to see the scenery on a good day.

There’s so much to do in that area and I could give you more but the above should keep you occupied for the time you are there - have a good time!


Neil.

[Martin Aislabie]

I love Zennor and the landscapes around there are just fabulous.

There is a very nice pub there which does great beer and lovely food - The Tinners Arms.

If you get to Zennor and fancy a decent walk then Zennor Quoit is great too.

Gunnards Head a little further west then Zennor is a terrific photographic location.

If you are in to Cornish Tin Mining history then anywhere from the Cot Valley (Porth Nanven) north east to Pendeen Lighthouse is just amazing.

And, no, 4 days are not going to be enough.

Have a lovely time.

Martin