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People love Perranporth for its fabulous immense golden, sandy beach, one of the largest in Cornwall, and possibly the UK, stretching for over three miles at low tide. High sloping dunes and low cliffs give it a sense of ruggedness, along with rock formations which include an arch, caves and Chapel Rock. There is also a little bathing pool, accessible at low tide. Facilities are close to hand, and the vastness of it makes it feel uncrowded even at the busiest times of the year. The surfing here is a little quieter than in Newquay, with experienced surfers heading towards Droskyn Point. The sheer amount of space makes it seems less busy than most beaches.
You might want to explore some of the sights around Perranporth, including the Perranzabuloe Millennial Sundial, a giant clifftop structure, the work of local artist, Stuart Thorn, born in Bude. It tells the time in Cornish time rather than London time to give people a sense of place. It is a wonderful place to sit and drink in the view. Perranzabuloe also has a folk museum.
Perranporth actually has a bar on the beach, literally, with its Watering Hole, known for its music gigs, and the Tunes in the Dunes Festival, which attracts some class live acts. Live the dream with a cold beer and a great vibe!
Walkers delight in this heather-topped section of the South West Coast Path out to St Agnes, which takes in some industrial remains and offers some fine sights. Head out on the easy stroll to Cligga Head, looking out over the famous smuggling cliffs used as cover by the smuggling syndicate here in 1780 (even the local vicar was involved, giving it a du Maurier feel).
If you enjoy golf, try the Perranporth course which has a fabulous setting high above the beach with views across the bay. Golfers should be aware of the seven blind drives on this course which may challenge some players.
Runners, or the superhuman, may prefer the Perranporth Triathlon which is one of the toughest in the UK, attracting many elite competitors. It starts with a 1.5 k swim in the Atlantic (often with quite a swell) followed by a 38 km cycle up enormous inclines, followed by a 7.5 km run (some of which is on dunes).
More relaxing events include a day out at Trerice, the Elizabethan manor house or at the home of the famous Cornish Rattler, Healey’s Cyder Farm. If champion ice cream is more for you, then Callestick Farm is right next door.
Home of ice cream, post surf cocktails or showstopping seafood, there is something here for you. Try The Summerhouse to drink in the idyllic views. For ice cream, check out The Pavilion. The Seiners Arms offers a traditional Cornish bar and a sea terrace.
Categories: Things to do
