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The Must-Do Guide to Whitsand Bay

Looking to explore Cornwall's 'forgotten corner'? Whitsand Bay Fort, a proud South West Coast Path Way Maker, offers walkers a warm welcome, a stamp in their Coast Path Passport, and a base from which to explore Whitsand Bay and its surrounds. Located just a short foot ferry from Plymouth, followed by a rewarding coastal hike, there's plenty to explore. In this blog, hiking enthusiast Anna Reid shares her must-do guide to exploring the area.

We love being nestled in the ‘Forgotten Corner’ – we feel like we have an exclusive secret that we can share with you. 

The road from Devon, across the bridge into Cornwall, runs north of Whitsand Bay, so many people forget how gorgeously accessible we are as they delve deep into the county. The reality is, we’re moments from Devon – so close, in fact, you can get a foot ferry from the historic Royal William Yard in Plymouth, Devon, to our part of the world, and take a beautiful – if not challenging – hike around the coast path.  

Whitsand Bay Fort is a luxury holiday resort offering unspoiled panoramic views over Whitsand Bay. Its stylish and cozy self-catering lodges blend seamlessly into the tranquil landscape, with stunning holiday homes and luxury lodges for sale.  

Our world is based on the South West Coast Path, so we’re proud to be a Way Maker, offering a stamp in your passport and a warm welcome as you pass through.  

But, of course, before you do pass through – stay for a while, and experience the very best of our corner. We want to share it with you! 

Whitsand Bay Beach

You are rewarded by your walk down the cliff by 3 miles of soft sand, stretching out in front of you when the tide is out, to shallows, soft waves, and rocks jolting out atmospherically. It’s vast and epic – feeling a little like the coast of California, without the long flight… watersports, swimming, sandcastles and simply feeling the wind in your hair, this is here for you. Don’t rush back up the cliff, stay a while, and enjoy a drink at one of the cafes.  

Rame Head

Guarding Plymouth Sound from the westerly winds, Rame Head, a haunt of the rare Dartford Warbler, is a dramatic headland surmounted by a medieval chapel which once doubled as a hermitage and lighthouse. You can climb to the top of the hill, and enjoy 360 degree views.  

Many have seen Rame Head in the film The Salt Path, but it’s even more dramatic and beautiful in real life.  

Whilst Rame Head sits on the path, you can drive to the nearby carpark and enjoy the view, without the hike if you prefer.  

Kingsand & Cawsand

These villages, sitting together, are quintessentially Cornish. Whether it’s a warm Cornish Pasty and a cup of takeaway tea, or a glass of something special at one of the eateries, these villages are the perfect pitstop. The small, but perfectly formed, beaches in both villages are great for swimming, sitting, and enjoying. 

There’s a boat that will take you on a scenic cruise across Plymouth Sound into Devon, landing on the historic Barbican, where you can enjoy culture, food and drink before sailing back to Cornwall.  

Mount Edgcumbe

A locals’ favourite – this is a country estate of ancient barrows, mystical woodland, forts and chapels dotted along a remote coastline, above secret beaches and smugglers coves. But at the surface, this estate begs to be wandered around, sipping a coffee, dipping your toes, and enjoying the boutique shops and cafes. Look out for seasonal events, or choose to get lost in the gardens on a quiet day.  

You can catch the foot ferry over to the historic Royal William Yard in Devon for a long, lazy lunch and to view this coastline from the ocean!  

Mount Edgcumbe is perfect for dogs – as is the foot ferry and many restaurants in the Royal William Yard – which sits on the South West Coast Path (and is, in fact, home to the path’s HQ!). 

Whitsand Bay Fort

Don’t forget to stop by at the Sales Office at Whitsand Bay Fort and see the team, they’ll stamp your passport and tell you all the best places to visit, see and do! There’s an onsite pub to enjoy. They’d also be delighted to show you round the lodges for sale… you may stay for good…  

Discover more: https://whitsandbaylodges.co.uk/ 

Guest blog written by Anna Reid.


Whitsand Bay Fort are one of over 550 Way Maker businesses offering places to stay, eat and drink or take part in activities along the South West Coast Path. Explore all our businesses online using our Place Finder or order a copy of the Official Guide to the South West Coast Path. Keep a record of your journey with our Coast Path Passport and pick up stamps at over 200 stamping points along the trail.

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