Pendeen Watch to Sennen Cove

Prepare yourself for an enchanting journey along the Cornish coast, from the lighthouse of Pendeen Watch to the stunning Sennen Cove. This is a remarkable stretch of the South West Coast Path that will leave you breathless, not just from the walking but also from the awe-inspiring scenery and fascinating history that unfolds along the way.

Distance:
9.5 miles (15.3 km)

Difficulty:
Moderate to Challenging

Starting Point: Pendeen Watch
Kick off from the atmospheric Pendeen Watch Lighthouse, perched on rugged cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic. The lighthouse has been guiding mariners safely along the coast since 1900, and it's a striking sight against the wild Cornish landscape. Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views before you set off westward on the path.

Portheras Cove (2.5 miles from Pendeen Watch)
After leaving Pendeen, the trail winds along the cliff tops, offering stunning sea views. Your first notable stop is Portheras Cove, a secluded and often deserted beach that is one of Cornwall’s hidden gems. It's a bit off the beaten path, but the tranquility and beauty make it worth the detour.

Facilities: None at Portheras Cove – be sure to bring your own supplies.

Levant Mine and Beam Engine (4 miles from Pendeen Watch)
Continue along the trail and soon you'll reach Levant Mine and Beam Engine, a fascinating piece of Cornwall's mining heritage. Owned by the National Trust, you can explore restored buildings, including the engine house with its working steam engine. The mine reached over a mile out under the sea and its history is full of tales of human endeavour and tragedy, including the devastating man engine accident in 1919.

Facilities: There are toilets and a small cafe at Levant Mine.

Geevor Tin Mine (5 miles from Pendeen Watch)
Just a mile farther, you'll encounter Geevor Tin Mine, another key player in Cornwall's mining history. It's now a museum where you can learn about the gruelling life of a miner and even venture underground into an 18th-century mine.

Facilities: Geevor Tin Mine has a cafe and toilets, as well as a museum shop.

Botallack (6 miles from Pendeen Watch)
Next, you'll pass through Botallack, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the ruins of the Crown Engine Houses perched precariously on the cliff edge make a dramatic picture, and it's easy to see why this landscape was chosen as a filming location for the TV series Poldark.

Facilities: There are public toilets in Botallack, and The Queens Arms pub if you're ready for a hearty meal.

Final Stretch: Whitesand Bay and Sennen Cove (9.5 miles)
The final few miles of the walk take you across Kenidjack Valley and on to the beautiful Whitesand Bay. Here, the golden sands and turquoise waters of Sennen Cove await, a perfect place to relax after your walk. Enjoy a well-earned rest at the beach-side cafe, take a dip in the sea, or simply soak up the stunning surroundings.

Facilities: Sennen Cove has cafes, pubs, toilets and shops. There's also a lifeguard service at the beach during the summer months.

Points to Remember

Terrain: This section is a mix of cliff-top paths and inland detours, with some steep sections. Good walking boots are essential.

Facilities: Limited in places, particularly between Pendeen and Levant, so carry water, snacks and any essentials you may need.

Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly – bring layers and a waterproof jacket.

Seasonal Refreshments: Available at Levant Mine, Geevor Tin Mine, and Sennen Cove in summer months.