Bedruthan Steps North Cornwall

Bedruthan Steps

BEDRUTHAN STEPS

Spectacular views, dramatic coastline and beautiful scenery make Bedruthan Steps an absolute must see activity during your stay in Cornwall.

Located between Newquay and Padstow on the north Cornish coast, towering sea stacks known as the Bedruthan Steps stand gallantly out of the water repelling the power of the atlantic ocean, offering a truly unique and spectacular sight from the cliff tops.

At low tide, a huge expanse of flat golden sand is revealed, allowing you to explore the caves and go toe to toe with the rock giants. Access to the beach is via a very steep staircase situated halfway along the coast path. This is closed annually from November to February. Please always check the tide times located at the entrance car park and staircase gate and be aware of your location whilst on the beach.

Bedruthan Steps is a beautiful place to walk along the cliffs, take in the sea air and admire the spectacular views. The coastal path stretches right along the coast, North around the headland to Porthcothan Bay, and South along the high cliff tops to Mawgan Porth.

The national trust has a two car parks, A cafe, shop and toilets are located next to the main car park.

BEDRUTHAN STEPS GALLERY

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HISTORY

The popularity of Bedruthan Steps came as a result of the nearby fishing town of Newquay being developed as a holiday resort over 100 years ago. Originally an area of mining, Carnewas mine operated for a short while during 1871 and 1874, producing hematite (an iron ore). The term “bedruthan steps” is said to originate from a Cornish mythological giant named ‘Bedruthan’ who used the giant rock stacks as stepping stones when it was high tide, however the first recorded name “bedruthan steps” was written in a local newspaper, referring to the original cliff staircases used by these miners to access the mine workings. Although mining is now long gone, the National Trust shop and cafe buildings that greet you on your entrance are a reminder of the times gone by, originally being used as the mine’s office.

BEDRUTHAN STEPS MAP

A map of Bedruthan Steps showing the two National Trust car parks, coastal path and all the names of the giant rock formations. From North to South are Queen Bess (named in the Victorian timed due to its likeness of Queen Elizabeth 1) , Samaritan Island (named after the ship the ‘Good Samaritan’ which was wrecked here in 1846), Redcove Island, Pendarves Island and Carnewas Island.

Bedruthan Steps Map

STAR GAZING AT BEDRUTHAN STEPS

As well as having spectacular scenery, Bedruthan Steps comes alive at night and is the perfect place to sit and watch the stars. Recently accredited as a Dark Sky Discovery Site (awarded to areas that are accessible and free from light pollution) Bedruthan Steps is one of the few places on Mainland Cornwall where the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. A special gazing area set up by the National Trust, featuring hand crafted star gazing benches by sculptor Michael Fairfax are sure to give you the best seats in the house! Local astronomy group Kernow Astronomers hold a number of events throughout the year.

Star gazing banch by sculptor Michael Fairfax

HOW TO GET TO BEDRUTHAN STEPS

From Newquay: Follow the B3276 towards Padstow, passing Watergate Bay and Mawgan Porth along the way. The car park is on your left, directly opposite the Inn at Bedruthan.

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