Sennen Cove, Cornwall (England’s most westerly village)
Sennen Cove is England’s most westerly village, just one mile from Land’s End in Cornwall (the most south-westerly point in England). Known for its clean turquoise waters, the shell and quartz fragments give a white sandy beach (you’d think you were in the Caribbean!)
Always follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms (and toxic plants/trees) and on leads near birds, barnyard friends and wild ponies.
At the coast, keep away from nesting birds and never walk on sand dunes. Learn how to keep dogs safe by the seaside (check beach bans before travel).
Steeped in legends of mermaids
Not surprisingly, this area has many legends of mermaids, the mysterious creatures of the sea. The Mermaid of Zennor was a beautiful woman with a mesmerising singing voice who frequented a local church, and is said to have lured local singer Mathew Trewhella to Pendour Cove, where they both disappeared into the sea.
A sad history of seine fishing
Seine net fishing is the kind that people are now trying to stop, due to it catching other creatures (seals, dolphins, whales and sharks). Whitesand Bay was once a major Cornish seine fisher, but now hopefully things are moving on, for the sake of all creatures.
Site of a dangerous shipwreck
In 2003, RMS Mulheim (a cargo vessel carrying over 2000 tons of plastic scrap) ran aground on the coast between Sennen Cove and Land’s End. The reason was unique (the chief officer had accidentally knocked himself unconscious after his trousers caught on a chair), and the ship drifted onto the (very dangerous) rocky shoreline.
Although no crew were injured, diesel soil leaks into the ocean, and resulted in a massive clean-up operation to help local birds and wildlife. The heavy ship eventually broke into two, and the rusted remains are still visible on the rocks, from nearby coastal paths.
It wasn’t the First Officer’s fault. But the fact that plastic debris was found floating up to 40 miles away (the local conservationists concern over ingestion by birds and dolphins), shows how important it is that we strive towards a plastic-free world.
St Michael’s Mount (an island off the Cornish coast)
St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island that rises from the sea, off the coast of Marazion. It offers centuries of history and sweeping views. Locals claim a giant called Cormoran once stalked the island. Others speak of the Archangel Michael appearing to fishermen in the 5th century.
It’s still home to around 30 people, and the castle is still home to the family who have lived here for over 350 years. The current landowners are James St Aubyn and his wife (who used to be a social worker in Plymouth).
Out walking? Follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms (and other toxic plants/trees) and on leads during nesting season (and near barnyard friends and wild ponies).
At the coast, keep away from nesting birds and never walk on sand dunes. Learn how to keep dogs safe by the seaside (check beach bans before travel).
Many islands don’t allow dogs (St Michael’s Mount for instance does not allow them in warm weather for their safety, due to lack of shady areas). Many island have no lifeguards and beaches that disappear at high tide.
Nearby Asparagus Island takes its name from the wild asparagus that grows on its slopes (toxic to humans and all creatures, so don’t eat it).
How to reach St Michael’s Mount
This is a tidal causeway, so you must follow the timetables, to ensure you don’t get stranded while walking there. Near to Penzance, wear layers and as mentioned above, know that in warmer weather, dogs are banned due to lack of shady areas, so don’t visit.
The walk can also be slippery due to uneven stones, puddles and wind that can push from the bay. Wear good shoes with strong grip, and know that some areas have steps.
When the tide is in, there are small boats that run the short distance from Marazion to the Mount. Yet even on calm days, it’s good to hold onto your hats and keep phones secure.
Harbour walks and a hilly castle
On arrival, there is a small climb and then you can reach the village and terraced gardens. The harbour and lanes are nice, and if you have more time, you could visit the castle rooms.
