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Home to Britain’s most southerly point and the picturesque Kynance Cove, The Lizard is a beautiful region of Cornwall that’s rich in wildlife, untouched coastline and secret coves.
Being the furthest point south along the coast, The Lizard is often overlooked, often being one of the furthest points to travel to from elsewhere in the UK. However, its distance from more well-known Cornish locations means its rugged natural beauty is preserved, and its coast paths are quiet, even in the height of summer.
Walk parallel to the shore for miles, spotting Cornish choughs, grey seals, wildflowers and rugged cliff face. Tuck into traditional pasties or beach picnics on sheltered coves. Breathe in the freshest air in the country whilst gazing out across the vast ocean.
Unique and varied, The Lizard Peninsula is home to a multitude of beaches and small fishing towns, including Coverack, Kennack Sands, Church Cove, Poldhu, and of course, Kynance Cove, arguably one of Cornwall’s most distinct and visually striking beaches.
Kennack Sands and Kynance Cove have a seasonal dog ban from 1 July – 31 August between 10am – 6pm. The other beaches in the area are dog friendly year-round, check here for the most up to date information.
Park your car and set off on foot from the National Trust Car Park at the Lizard Point, the National Trust Car Park at Kynance Cove, or the Lizard Village car park. Many of the beaches around the coast have their own car parks, such as Kennack Sands and Mullion Cove.
A must-see in this area is The Lizard Point, where you can enjoy a lunch or ice cream from Britain’s most southerly café. Walk down the sloping path past the most southerly point sign and you’ll come to a small sandy beach below the old lifeboat station – seals love to bask in the shallow water of this area, too!
The Lizard is also a great spot for snorkelling or diving, with some of the clearest water in Cornwall.
Head to Polpeor Cafe for the most southerly seafood in the UK. Some other delicious spots include the Housel Bay Hotel restaurant, The Witch Ball for a traditional pub meal, or Kynance Cove cafe for all your beach refreshments after a day in the water.
The Lizard benefits from being beautifully rural, but this means minimal shops. Aside from picking up some hand-crafted local goods in the village’s farm shops or the scenically placed gallery Art on Point, head to the nearby towns of Helston and Falmouth for more serious shopping.
The Lizard’s incredible coast path is made for coastal walking. Here’s a selection of walks, from easy to more challenging.
