St Agnes, Cornwall

From the campsite go left then right into a National Trust car park and follow the path in the opposite corner. Soon you’ll find the remains of Wheal Coates tin mine, a remnant of what was once a booming industry.
A steep, zigzagging path continues down below the main buildings to the spectacular old pumping house. Follow the coast path left to Chapel Porth, a popular beach for families and local surfers. The beach cafe has a tasty menu, and is especially famous for Hedgehog ice creams. Cross the bridge to the right and follow a path heading inland up a sheltered valley.
Go through a wooden kissing gate on your left. Turn right along a farm track alongside a stream, buzzing with insects and brimming with wild flowers. Eventually go through another kissing gate, walk up a short track then turn right and, on reaching a lane, turn left. At the crossroads go left and take a path on the right, which climbs and narrows before splitting – take the steep path straight up across the open heathland, a stunning carpet of purple bell heather, to St Agnes Beacon.

From the beacon summit (192m above sea level), there is a fantastic 360˚ view down to St Ives, over to Redruth and up the coast to Trevose Head lighthouse. An information plaque directs you to local landmarks, including distinctive tin mine chimneys. Historically, fires were lit on the beacon to warn villagers of imminent attack. Take the path heading in the direction of St Agnes. Turn left at a lane, signposted Higher Bal. After houses, walk over a stone stile and follow the footpath over fields until you reach the centre of the village. St Agnes is a year-round bustling village with galleries and craft shops. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Cornish pasty from the bakery.



Turn left on the main road, past the church and the famously quirky row of houses known as Stippy Stappy.
Follow Quay Road to Trevaunance Cove, passing the wonderfully inviting 17th-century Driftwood Spars Hotel. Left of the beach pick up the coast path and follow it back to Wheal Coates mine. At St Agnes Head look out for fulmars soaring around the cliffs and gannets diving out to sea. Notice the numerous capped mine shafts, evidence of the tin mining history. On reaching Wheal Coates, head back to the campsite.

TERRAIN

Coast paths (steep in places), country footpaths with stiles and short sections on minor roads. Warm clothes recommended as the coastal path is exposed.

HOW TO GET THERE

BY CAR: Travelling westbound on the A30, drive to the Chiverton Cross roundabout and take the B3277 St Agnes turning. As you approach St Agnes, take the left-hand turning to Chapel Porth. From here follow the brown tourism signs until you reach Beacon Cottage Farm on your right.

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Trains run to Truro, Newquay or Redruth. Take the bus T1 from Truro. www.truronian.co.uk Public Transport Information % 08712 002233

REFRESHMENTS

Driftwood Spars Hotel
Trevaunance Cove, St Agnes, Cornwall TR5 0RT
01872 552428
www.driftwoodspars.com

The St Agnes Hotel
Churchtown, St Agnes, Cornwall TR5 0QP
01872 552307
www.st-agnes-hotel.co.uk
MAP
Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 104.
Grid ref: SW 725 505

CAMPSITE

Beacon Cottage Farm
Beacon Drive, St Agnes, Cornwall TR5 0NU
01872 552347
beaconcottagefarmholidays.co.uk
60 pitches and cottages to rent. Open April-Oct. Prices for two people in a tent or caravan from £15-21 depending on season.

MORE INFO

St Agnes Tourist Information
01872 554150
www.stagnes.com