
St Agnes Head
Dramatic Cornish headland with iconic mining ruins and breathtaking coastal views along the South West Coast Path.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

St Agnes Head
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic Cornish headland with iconic mining ruins and breathtaking coastal views along the South West Coast Path.
"Wow, absolutely stunning coastal views. The beautiful flora was in flower as we walk down the coastal path."

Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be uneven and narrow, especially near Wheal Coates. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Prepare for Wind
It's a headland, so expect wind! Layers are your friend for comfort. :cloud:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wheal Coates Mining Ruins
Coastal path near St Agnes Head
Iconic engine house ruins perched dramatically on the cliffs, a stark reminder of Cornwall's mining past.

Panoramic Coastal Views
St Agnes Head summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the rugged Cornish coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

South West Coast Path
St Agnes Head and surrounding areas
Explore miles of stunning clifftop trails, connecting picturesque coves and dramatic headlands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Beauty
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be uneven and narrow, especially near Wheal Coates. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Prepare for Wind
It's a headland, so expect wind! Layers are your friend for comfort. :cloud:
Leave No Trace
This beautiful, wild spot is protected. Take all your rubbish with you. :recycle:
Dog-Friendly Exploration
Many visitors enjoy walks with their dogs, but keep them under control. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be uneven and narrow, especially near Wheal Coates. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Prepare for Wind
It's a headland, so expect wind! Layers are your friend for comfort. :cloud:
Leave No Trace
This beautiful, wild spot is protected. Take all your rubbish with you. :recycle:
Dog-Friendly Exploration
Many visitors enjoy walks with their dogs, but keep them under control. :dog:
Free Parking Available
Several parking spots are available along the cliffs, often free of charge. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St Agnes Head for its breathtaking, wild coastal scenery and the evocative presence of the historic Wheal Coates mining ruins. The free parking and unspoiled landscape are major draws, though the lack of facilities and potential for wind are noted drawbacks.
"Beautiful location, beautiful veiws. A few VW transporter campervans wild camping. Hight barrier on arrival road to prevent larger vehicles exploiting such a peaceful place. Highly recommend a visit if you're in the area"
Gareth Griffiths
"Beautiful and wild this corner of the earth at St Agnes head. The place is protected from National Trust. There's three different parking places along the cliffs to park your car, with stunning views of the surrounding area and the ocean. Come and enjoy but leave no trace¬!"
motsion
"Beautiful location for a walk on the coast. Car park has plenty of spaces and easy access. Not too crowded on weekdays during term time. Would highly recommend visiting."
Mikey D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Agnes Head is accessible by car, with parking available along the coastal road. The South West Coast Path also runs through the area, making it reachable on foot for hikers. Some visitors mention a height barrier on the arrival road to prevent larger vehicles, so be mindful of that.
Yes, St Agnes Head is a prominent landmark. Follow signs for St Agnes village and then head towards the coast. The dramatic Wheal Coates ruins are a good indicator you're in the right area.
While direct public transport to the very headland might be limited, you can reach nearby villages like St Agnes or Porthtowan by bus and then walk to St Agnes Head. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors recommend walking along the South West Coast Path to fully appreciate the scenery. You can start from nearby coves like Trevaunance Cove or Chapel Porth.
One review mentioned a height barrier on the arrival road, likely to preserve the peaceful nature of the site and prevent larger vehicles from overstaying.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, St Agnes Head is a natural landscape and part of the National Trust's protected areas. Entry is generally free, and parking is also often free.
As an open natural landscape, St Agnes Head is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully enjoy the views.
There is no entrance fee to visit St Agnes Head. It's a public access area for everyone to enjoy the stunning Cornish coast.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns on the uneven coastal paths and lack of lighting. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
Yes, St Agnes Head and its surrounding areas, including the Wheal Coates ruins, are managed and protected by the National Trust.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activities include walking the South West Coast Path, admiring the dramatic coastal scenery, exploring the historic Wheal Coates mining ruins, and enjoying the wild landscape.
There are no specific facilities like cafes or restrooms directly at St Agnes Head. Visitors are advised to come prepared with their own refreshments and essentials.
Children can enjoy the open space for running around, but caution is advised on the cliff edges and uneven paths. Adult supervision is essential.
You might spot various seabirds along the coast. The heathland also supports diverse flora and fauna, especially during spring and summer.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscapes, historic ruins, and coastal views make it a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at St Agnes Head. However, the nearby villages of St Agnes and Chapel Porth offer pubs, cafes, and ice cream shops.
Yes, a picnic is a great idea! There are many scenic spots to enjoy your own food while taking in the views. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
St Agnes village has several pubs and cafes offering traditional Cornish fare. Chapel Porth is also known for its ice cream.
You can certainly pick up takeaway from St Agnes village or nearby towns and enjoy it with the stunning views at St Agnes Head.
While not directly on the headland, some establishments in nearby coastal villages might offer sea views. It's best to check local listings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Wheal Coates ruins against the sea, panoramic views from the summit, and the rugged coastline itself are prime photography locations.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto can isolate details of the ruins or distant coastline. A sturdy tripod is useful for low light.
Capturing the Wheal Coates engine houses with the crashing waves below is a classic shot. Also, look for wildflowers in bloom during spring.
Drone usage may be subject to National Trust regulations and local bylaws. It's advisable to check with the National Trust for any restrictions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting your exploration from a more accessible point like Trevaunance Cove, which has facilities and a beach. The walk towards St Agnes Head can be adapted to suit younger legs, perhaps focusing on a shorter loop or a specific viewpoint. Sturdy shoes are a must for everyone, and packing snacks and drinks will ensure a more comfortable adventure.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Be prepared for variable weather conditions, as it can be windy and exposed. Wearing appropriate footwear with good grip is essential due to the uneven terrain. Many hikers enjoy the sense of accomplishment after completing a section of the path, with the stunning coastal vistas serving as a constant reward. Don't forget to pack plenty of water and snacks for your journey.
📸 Photographers and Artists
Consider bringing a range of lenses to capture both expansive panoramas and intricate details. Drone photography can offer unique perspectives, but always check for any restrictions. Even on a grey day, the moody atmosphere can lend itself to compelling artistic interpretations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Wheal Coates
Walking the coastal path around Wheal Coates offers incredible perspectives. Be mindful of the terrain; the path can be narrow and uneven, especially closer to the ruins. Some visitors recommend sticking to the right-hand path on the way back up if you're unsteady on your feet or dislike heights. The juxtaposition of the stark industrial architecture against the wild, natural beauty of the coast is what makes this spot so captivating for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
Remember that while the ruins are fascinating, they are old structures. It's important to admire them from a safe distance and avoid climbing on them. The surrounding heathland is also a protected habitat, so stick to marked paths to minimize your impact.
The Majesty of the South West Coast Path
Popular routes include starting from Trevaunance Cove and heading south towards Chapel Porth, passing by St Agnes Head and Wheal Coates. This approximately 5K walk is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the coastal scenery. Alternatively, you can explore east from Perranporth for more windswept drama. The path is well-maintained in most sections, but always be prepared for uneven terrain and potential mud, especially after rain.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or looking for a scenic stroll, the South West Coast Path here offers something for everyone. The ever-present sea breeze and the vastness of the ocean create a sense of freedom and awe. It's an essential part of the St Agnes Head experience, allowing you to truly connect with the wild Cornish coast.
Capturing St Agnes Head: A Photographer's Dream
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, is particularly magical here, casting a warm glow over the landscape and creating dramatic skies. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for capturing the sweeping vistas, while telephoto lenses can be used to focus on the intricate details of the mining structures or distant coastal features. Don't forget to experiment with different angles and compositions to truly capture the essence of this wild place.
Beyond the grand landscapes, look for the smaller details: the vibrant wildflowers that bloom in spring, the textures of the rock formations, and the ever-changing moods of the sea. Even on a rainy day, St Agnes Head can offer a moody and atmospheric photographic subject.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit