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Godrevy Head

4.6
·491k reviews·St Ives, United Kingdom

Iconic lighthouse, dramatic cliffs, and seal spotting await at Godrevy Head, offering breathtaking coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdLow
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Godrevy Head - Image 1

Godrevy Head

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic lighthouse, dramatic cliffs, and seal spotting await at Godrevy Head, offering breathtaking coastal views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The views are absolutely stunning, and seeing the seals was a highlight!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

The National Trust car park fills fast! Arrive early or consider visiting off-peak. :car:

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Coastal paths can be uneven. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Godrevy Lighthouse

Godrevy Lighthouse

Godrevy Island

Iconic lighthouse standing sentinel over St Ives Bay, a historic maritime landmark.

Seal Spotting at Mutton Cove

Seal Spotting at Mutton Cove

Mutton Cove

Watch playful seals basking and swimming in the sheltered waters of this picturesque cove.

Coastal Path Walks

Coastal Path Walks

Godrevy Head

Breathtaking cliff-top trails offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline and St Ives Bay.

Gwithian Beach Views

Gwithian Beach Views

Gwithian Beach

Expansive sandy beach stretching towards Godrevy Head, perfect for a stroll or surf.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Godrevy Head

Godrevy Head offers stunning coastal views, but can get busy. Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds, especially during peak season. The National Trust car park can fill up quickly, so arriving early is key for a relaxed experience. Instagram

Embrace the Elements at Godrevy

Cornwall's weather is famously changeable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy walking shoes for exploring the coastal paths. Even on a breezy day, the dramatic scenery and potential for seal spotting make Godrevy Head a worthwhile destination. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Sunset views, seal activity
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Amazing views of the whole of St. Ives Bay, Cornwall. From the Island at St. Ives all the way round to Godrevy lighthouse. I’m standing at Sandy Acres a beach we often go to in the summer for some surfing #dronemancornwall #holidaydestinations #beautifulbritain #summer2024 #cornwall #cornwalltiktok #cornwalltiktok #cornwalllife #beautifulcornwall #kernow #kernowfornia #kernowtok #hayle #stives #le...
@droneman_cornwall
487 likes • 13.8K views

🚗 Park Smart

The National Trust car park fills fast! Arrive early or consider visiting off-peak. Instagram :car:

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Coastal paths can be uneven. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes for safe exploration. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Our little surf school. 🏝️ 🏄‍♂️ St Ives Bay, Cornwall, UK #shoresurf #ocean #beach #waves #sand #lighthouse #cornwall #cornwallbeach #stives #stivesbay #gwithian #godrevy #drone #cornwalldrone #surf #surfing #surfer #surfboard #surflesson #cornwallsurf #cornwallsurfschool #surfschool #surftok #cornwalllife #cornwallcoast #coast #nature #beauty #Summer #fyp
@shoresurf.school
486 likes • 8.1K views
If you know my work you'll probably also know that I'm rather fond of lighthouses and especially Godrevy which is my 'local' and a constant source of inspiration. Godrevy was built between 1857 and 1858, it's 85 feet tall and was constructed to warn of Stones reef, known locally as "The Nine Maidens," In my video you can see Godrevy Head, Godrevy Island, the lighthouse and a deserted Porthkidney...
kimpotterart
6 likes • 127 views

🔭 Bring Binoculars

Enhance your seal spotting experience at Mutton Cove with a good pair of binoculars. TikTok

🌊 Check Tide Times

Tides can affect beach access and seal visibility. Plan accordingly for your visit. Reddit

A much needed breakfast and the best hot chocolate I've had in a long time at Godrevy Head! Turns out, the route around the headland is a perfect 5km, equally challenging and fun to run before a well earned snack. Well worth getting the @nationaltrust membership, to not only support the upkeep of these great spaces, but also get free parking! #cornwall #godrevy #runningcornwall #nationaltrust
padelcornwall
4 likes • 404 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

The National Trust car park fills fast! Arrive early or consider visiting off-peak. Instagram :car:

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Coastal paths can be uneven. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes for safe exploration. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🔭 Bring Binoculars

Enhance your seal spotting experience at Mutton Cove with a good pair of binoculars. TikTok

🌊 Check Tide Times

Tides can affect beach access and seal visibility. Plan accordingly for your visit. Reddit

📸 Capture the Lighthouse

The iconic Godrevy Lighthouse is a must-photograph. Visit at different times for varied light. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking coastal scenery and the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse. The opportunity to spot seals at Mutton Cove is a major highlight, and the well-maintained coastal paths offer invigorating walks. Some find the National Trust car park can get very busy, and the weather can be unpredictable.

What People Like

Stunning lighthouse views
Seal spotting opportunities
Beautiful coastal walks

What People Dislike

Busy car park
Changeable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Godrevy Head is accessible by car, with a National Trust car park available. It's also reachable via public transport with bus services to nearby Gwithian and Hayle, followed by a walk. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is a National Trust car park. However, it's popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Arriving early is recommended. Instagram

Yes, you can reach Godrevy Head via public transport to Gwithian or Hayle and then enjoy a scenic walk along the coast. TikTok

Walking the coastal paths offers the most immersive experience, with opportunities to see the lighthouse, seals, and stunning bay views. Instagram

While some access roads are suitable, the main coastal paths are best explored on foot. Cycling might be challenging on certain sections. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Godrevy Head area is free. However, parking in the National Trust car park requires payment or a National Trust membership. Instagram

Godrevy Head is an open coastal area and is accessible at all times. The National Trust car park has specific operating hours. Instagram

While official guided tours might not be consistently available, local walking groups or National Trust events may offer guided experiences. Instagram

Advance booking for parking is generally not available. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Instagram

The lighthouse itself is not typically open for public tours. It functions as a navigational aid. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse, spot seals at Mutton Cove, enjoy panoramic views of St Ives Bay, and walk the beautiful coastal paths. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! It's a prime spot for seal watching at Mutton Cove and offers opportunities to see various seabirds along the coast. TikTokInstagram

The circular walk around Godrevy Head is highly recommended, offering diverse scenery. The coastal path towards Gwithian Beach is also popular. Instagram+1

Yes, families can enjoy the open spaces, beach access, and wildlife spotting. Ensure children are supervised on cliff paths. TikTok

There are toilet facilities and a National Trust cafe near the car park. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a National Trust cafe located near the car park offering refreshments and light meals. Instagram

Picnicking is a great option! There are many scenic spots along the coastal paths and on the beaches to enjoy your own food. Reddit

The cafe typically offers hot drinks, cakes, sandwiches, and light meals, perfect for a post-walk treat. Instagram

While there are no restaurants directly at Godrevy Head, nearby villages like Gwithian and Hayle offer various dining options. TikTok

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy responsibly in the beautiful surroundings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lighthouse, Mutton Cove with seals, dramatic cliff formations, and panoramic views of St Ives Bay are prime photography locations. TikTokInstagram+1

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light. Overcast days can also create dramatic, moody shots. Instagram

Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and National Trust guidelines. Always check and fly responsibly. TikTok+1

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for capturing seals. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. TikTok

While not always advertised, local photography enthusiasts or groups might organize meetups or workshops. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Godrevy Head offers a fantastic day out for families. The expansive Gwithian Beach provides ample space for children to play, build sandcastles, and paddle in the sea. The coastal path, while requiring supervision, offers exciting exploration opportunities with stunning views. TikTok Bring binoculars for seal spotting at Mutton Cove – a guaranteed hit with kids! Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited to a cafe near the car park. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Hikers

For those who love to walk, Godrevy Head is a paradise. The coastal path offers a variety of routes, from short, scenic strolls to longer, more challenging hikes. The circular walk around the headland is particularly rewarding, showcasing diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks. Instagram Remember to wear appropriate footwear and check the weather, as it can be exposed and windy. InstagramReddit

📸 Photographers

Godrevy Head is a photographer's dream, with the Godrevy Lighthouse as its star attraction. Capture it from various angles along the coastal path, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting. Instagram Don't forget to look for seals in Mutton Cove and the sweeping panoramas of St Ives Bay. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Godrevy Lighthouse

The Godrevy Lighthouse is a striking landmark perched on Godrevy Island, just off the coast of Godrevy Head. Built between 1857 and 1858, its primary purpose was to warn ships of the treacherous Stones reef, locally known as "The Nine Maidens." This historic structure has been a vital navigational aid for centuries, guiding vessels safely through St Ives Bay. Its presence adds a dramatic and romantic element to the rugged Cornish coastline, making it a focal point for visitors and a constant source of inspiration for artists. Instagram+1

Many visitors are drawn to Godrevy Head specifically to capture the lighthouse in its dramatic setting. The views from the mainland, especially from the coastal path, offer excellent vantage points. Whether bathed in the golden light of sunset or silhouetted against a stormy sky, the lighthouse provides a timeless photographic subject. TikTokInstagram

Wildlife Wonders: Seals of Mutton Cove

One of the most enchanting experiences at Godrevy Head is the opportunity to observe seals in their natural habitat. Mutton Cove, a sheltered inlet near the headland, is a favored spot for these marine mammals to haul out and bask in the sun. Visitors often report seeing them lounging on the rocks or playfully swimming in the clear waters. TikTokInstagram

To make the most of your seal-spotting adventure, it's recommended to bring binoculars. This will allow you to observe their behavior from a respectful distance without disturbing them. Patience is key, as seals can be elusive, but the reward of witnessing these charming creatures is well worth the wait. TikTok Remember to always maintain a safe distance and avoid making loud noises that could startle them. Reddit

Exploring the Godrevy Head Coastal Path

The coastal path around Godrevy Head is a highlight for many visitors, offering breathtaking vistas and a chance to immerse yourself in Cornwall's natural beauty. This well-maintained path winds along the clifftops, providing panoramic views of St Ives Bay, the iconic lighthouse, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The terrain can be varied, with some sections being more challenging than others, so sturdy footwear is essential. InstagramReddit

This walk is not just about the views; it's also an opportunity to experience the local flora and fauna. During spring and summer, the cliffs are often sprinkled with vibrant sea pinks and other wildflowers. The path offers various viewpoints, including those overlooking Mutton Cove, where you might spot seals. Many find the walk invigorating and a perfect way to connect with the dramatic Cornish landscape. TikTokInstagram

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