Battle of Stratton Monument Cornwall
An iconic octagonal tower offering breathtaking coastal views, relocated twice due to erosion, a testament to preservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Clearer views & better light
Battle of Stratton Monument Cornwall
Best Time
Clearer views & better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic octagonal tower offering breathtaking coastal views, relocated twice due to erosion, a testament to preservation.
"The climb is worth it for the spectacular views of the coast and Bude."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tower is on a hill; sturdy footwear is essential for the climb. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tower's Current Location
It's been moved twice due to erosion. Confirm its exact spot before you go. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Octagonal Storm Tower
Efford Down
A 19th-century watchtower, a replica of Athens' Tower of Winds, offering panoramic coastal vistas.
Panoramic Coastal Views
From the tower's location
Breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the town of Bude, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Information Panel
Near the tower
Learn about the tower's history, its multiple relocations due to coastal erosion, and local heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Coastal Views & Tower Relocation
Accessibility & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tower is on a hill; sturdy footwear is essential for the climb. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tower's Current Location
It's been moved twice due to erosion. Confirm its exact spot before you go. :world_map:
Parking is Limited
Don't rely on finding a close parking spot; be prepared for a walk. :car:
Enjoy the Views
The climb is worth it for the spectacular views of the coast and Bude. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tower is on a hill; sturdy footwear is essential for the climb. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tower's Current Location
It's been moved twice due to erosion. Confirm its exact spot before you go. :world_map:
Parking is Limited
Don't rely on finding a close parking spot; be prepared for a walk. :car:
Enjoy the Views
The climb is worth it for the spectacular views of the coast and Bude. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Battle of Stratton Monument for its spectacular coastal views and the unique history of the octagonal tower, which has been relocated twice due to erosion. While the walk up can be challenging and parking is limited, the panoramic scenery and the chance to learn about local heritage make it a worthwhile visit for many.
"This local landmark was actually moved from its original position nearer to the cliff edge but coastal erosion necessitated the move to a safer place, for now. You are rewarded for your walk here by great views of the surrounding coastline and there is an information panel providing more information (you can also find out more at The Castle heritage centre) Free to visit."
Elizabeth Baker
"A beautiful octagonal tower based on the Tower of the Winds in Athens. Built circa 1835, for the 10th Baronet of Killerton, the Storm Tower sits high on Efford Down overlooking the town. Due to coastal erosion the tower was moved further inland in 1881 and then again to its current location in 2023."
Chris Kinnersley
"This 19th century watch tower has been dismantled twice and re-built and relocated to secure it from coastal erosion. It's an iconic building for the area. They've done a fabulous job of the re-build.
Engraved on each face of the octagon are compass points.
It's on the coast path up a hill so may be hard to reach for those with walking difficulty. You may be lucky to get a parking space nearby, but don't count on it.
Great views of Bude from up there."
Jim O'Toole
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monument is located on Efford Down, accessible via the coast path. Parking is limited nearby, so be prepared for a walk. Consider checking local bus routes to Bude and walking from there.
Parking is very limited and not guaranteed. It's best to be prepared for a walk from a nearby village or town.
You can take a bus to Bude and then walk along the coast path. The walk can be steep in places, so check local bus schedules for convenience.
Many visitors enjoy walking along the coast path for scenic views. Ensure you have appropriate footwear for the terrain.
The monument is situated on a hill along the coast path, which may present challenges for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Battle of Stratton Monument and its grounds is free.
The monument is an outdoor landmark and is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and views.
There is no admission fee to visit the tower; it is a free local landmark.
Yes, the monument is accessible year-round, but weather conditions may affect the comfort of your visit, especially the walk up.
No booking is required to visit the Battle of Stratton Monument. It's a public access point.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for capturing the tower and coastline. Sunny mornings provide clear, crisp views.
You can capture stunning panoramic shots of the Cornish coastline, the unique octagonal tower, and the surrounding landscape.
The area around the tower itself provides excellent vantage points. Exploring slightly further along the coast path can offer different perspectives.
While drone photography might be possible, always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, and a telephoto lens can be useful for details along the coast.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The open space around the monument is great for kids to run around (under supervision), and the views provide a fantastic backdrop for family photos. Consider a shorter walk along the coast path if the full climb seems too much for younger children.
🚶 Hikers and Walkers
Ensure you have a map or navigation app, as well as water and snacks. The terrain can be varied, so sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. The monument serves as a great landmark and a place to rest and admire the landscape before continuing your journey.
📸 Photographers
Be prepared for varying light conditions and potential wind. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the vastness of the landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details along the coastline. The monument's history of relocation also adds an interesting narrative element to your photographic story.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tower's Journey: A Story of Resilience
This repeated relocation highlights the dynamic nature of the Cornish coastline and the challenges faced in preserving historical structures. The tower's journey is a story of adaptation and preservation, ensuring that this unique architectural piece continues to stand as a point of interest and a marker of the area's heritage. Visitors can learn more about its history from an information panel located near the tower, or at The Castle heritage centre in Bude.
Each move has ensured the tower's survival, allowing visitors to still appreciate its design and the incredible views it offers. The engraved compass points on each face of the octagon add a subtle, yet significant, detail to its design, reminding visitors of its original purpose as a watchtower.
Experiencing the Views and the Walk
The walk to the tower is part of the experience, often following sections of the South West Coast Path. This means visitors can expect varied terrain, including inclines and potentially uneven paths. It's advisable to wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, especially if you plan to explore further along the coast. The effort involved in reaching the monument adds to the sense of accomplishment and makes the views even more appreciated.
For those with mobility concerns, it's important to be aware of the hilly terrain. While the monument itself is free to visit and always accessible, the approach requires a certain level of physical fitness. Planning your visit during good weather will also enhance the experience, ensuring clearer views and a more pleasant walk.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit