Hawker's Hut Morwenstow
A tiny, historic wooden hut perched on a Cornish cliff, built by an eccentric Victorian vicar and poet.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Hawker's Hut Morwenstow
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tiny, historic wooden hut perched on a Cornish cliff, built by an eccentric Victorian vicar and poet.
"A proper cool curiosity right on the cliff face, very peaceful and out of the wind."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The steps down to the hut are steep and can be slippery. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Cornwall's coast is unpredictable. Mist can roll in quickly, affecting views. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hawker's Hut Itself
Cliffside
The smallest National Trust property, a rustic wooden hideaway built by an eccentric vicar.
Dramatic Cliff Views
Southwest Coast Path
Panoramic vistas of the rugged Cornish coastline, especially stunning when the mist clears.
Morwenstow Church
Near the hut
A historic church with a large car park, often the starting point for the walk to the hut.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Hawker's Hut
Weather Watch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The steps down to the hut are steep and can be slippery. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Cornwall's coast is unpredictable. Mist can roll in quickly, affecting views. :cloud:
Start at the Church
Morwenstow Church offers parking and is a short walk from the hut. :church:
Respect the Location
This is a peaceful spot. Leave no trace and enjoy the tranquility. :leaf:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The steps down to the hut are steep and can be slippery. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Check the Weather
Cornwall's coast is unpredictable. Mist can roll in quickly, affecting views. :cloud:
Start at the Church
Morwenstow Church offers parking and is a short walk from the hut. :church:
Respect the Location
This is a peaceful spot. Leave no trace and enjoy the tranquility. :leaf:
Combine with a Walk
The Southwest Coast Path offers beautiful walks. Combine the hut visit with a longer hike. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the dramatic coastal views and the unique historical charm of Hawker's Hut. The atmosphere, especially in misty conditions, is often highlighted as a memorable aspect. Some find the steep steps challenging, and the unpredictable weather can impact the experience.
"There is a small stone marker and National Trust sign at the top of the steps leading down to the hut. Surely most coast path walkers will take a few minutes to visit the hut and sit to look out on the sea views. Built by clergyman Robert Hawker (1803-1875) from wood retrieved from shipwrecks. It's a ten minute walk from Morwenstow Church which has a large car park."
Roy Sirl
"Visited this hut today.....weather was very misty and eerie😱😅...we were lucky, the sky brightened up for a few moments and we got down to the hut.. its a relaxing, lovely to visit. The view was amazing!!... also when we went back up the steps to the cliff top the views were even more gorgeous!!!... then just like that the mist rolled back in!!...so that was the end of the walk on the coast path.....so glad we went to Hawkers Hut!👍👌....if you get a clear day the view is stunning!!... enjoy everyone!!.....just be careful driving around the tight lanes to get there!!...😁👍"
Paul
"Very easy spot to get to, hidden away down some steps. Lovely views of the coast line"
Lewis Butterworth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is via Morwenstow Church, which has a car park. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk down steep steps to the hut on the cliff face. Be prepared for the climb back up!
Yes, parking is available at Morwenstow Church. Be aware that the lanes leading to the area can be narrow and winding.
The walk involves descending and ascending steep steps. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended. The path is part of the Southwest Coast Path.
No, you cannot drive directly to the hut. It requires a walk from the nearest parking area, typically Morwenstow Church.
Due to the steep steps, the hut may not be accessible for individuals with mobility issues. It's best to assess the steps before descending.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hawker's Hut is managed by the National Trust. While there isn't a specific ticket booth for the hut itself, access is generally included with National Trust membership or standard entry fees if visiting other National Trust properties in the area.
As an outdoor location, Hawker's Hut is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check the National Trust website for any specific access information or seasonal closures.
There is no separate entrance fee for Hawker's Hut. Access is typically covered by National Trust membership or day passes for the surrounding area.
While the hut is outdoors, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety, especially given the steep steps. The weather can also impact accessibility.
The National Trust website for Morwenstow is the best resource for up-to-date information on access, parking, and any potential advisories.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the hut from the path looking towards the sea, or from the cliff top looking down. The dramatic coastline offers many scenic photo opportunities.
Some visitors have captured drone footage of the area, showcasing the hut and coastline. Always check local drone regulations and be mindful of other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A camera with good low-light performance can be useful if visiting during misty conditions. :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be respectful of the natural environment and other visitors.
Mornings can offer softer light, while misty afternoons create a dramatic, atmospheric mood. Golden hour can also be spectacular if the weather cooperates.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main activity is to visit the historic hut, enjoy the stunning sea views, and walk along the Southwest Coast Path. It's a place for quiet contemplation and appreciating nature.
Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to an hour, including the walk down and up the steps and time to enjoy the views.
Facilities are limited directly at the hut. Morwenstow Church may have some basic amenities, and there are tea rooms and pubs in the wider Morwenstow area.
It's described as peaceful, secluded, and sometimes eerie, especially in misty weather. The sound of the sea and the dramatic cliffside location contribute to its unique ambiance.
Bring water, snacks, a camera, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for coastal weather and steep steps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The walk from Morwenstow Church offers a manageable distance, and the novelty of the tiny hut can capture a child's imagination. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The dramatic coastal scenery and the story of the eccentric vicar can make for an engaging and educational outing. Consider the weather, as strong winds or heavy rain can make the steps more challenging.
🚶 Hikers and Coastal Path Enthusiasts
The hut itself offers a unique historical stopover, providing a moment of respite and a glimpse into the past. Plan your hike to include a detour to the hut. Remember that the steps are steep, so factor in the extra time and effort for the descent and ascent. The views from the cliff top and the hut itself are well worth the effort for any keen walker.
📸 Photographers and History Buffs
The interplay of light, mist, and the rugged coastline provides a constantly changing canvas. Consider visiting during different times of day for varied photographic conditions. History enthusiasts will be fascinated by the story of Robert Stephen Hawker and his creation of this tiny, cliffside retreat.
+1 The hut's construction from shipwreck timber and its association with the vicar's eccentricities make it a compelling historical site. Exploring the nearby Morwenstow Church also adds to the historical context of the visit. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Eccentric Vicar: Robert Stephen Hawker
+2Hawker's unique personality extended to his public persona. He was known to swim out to sea dressed as a mermaid, complete with glowing purple scarves and a handmade tail, to entertain and mystify locals. This blend of literary pursuits and whimsical behavior cemented his legend in the area.
His most famous work, 'The Song of the Western Men,' includes the patriotic refrain 'And shall Trelawny die? Ten thousand Cornish men will know the reason why!' This poem has become a symbol of Cornish identity. Visiting Hawker's Hut offers a tangible connection to this fascinating historical figure and his creative spirit.
Navigating the Southwest Coast Path
+1Walking this part of the path requires a good level of fitness due to the undulating terrain and steep ascents and descents, particularly the steps leading to Hawker's Hut. The path is well-maintained but can be exposed to the elements, so checking weather conditions is crucial.
Visitors often combine a trip to Hawker's Hut with a longer walk along the coast path, enjoying the rugged beauty of the North Cornwall coast. The path provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the wildness of the landscape and discover hidden gems like the hut itself.
The Unique Atmosphere of Hawker's Hut
Many visitors find the hut to be a 'proper cool curiosity' and a place that feels 'out of the wind despite being cliffside.'
Whether bathed in sunshine or shrouded in mist, Hawker's Hut offers a memorable experience. The ever-changing coastal light and weather contribute to its mystical allure, drawing visitors to this tiny, historic hideaway.
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