Top 20 Natural Monuments in Cornwall

Cornwall is home to many iconic natural monuments. Among the most popular are The Cheesewring, a unique granite rock formation on Bodmin Moor, and Lizard Point, the southernmost tip of Britain known for its distinctive geology and wildlife. Another must-see is Bedruthan Steps Rock Formations, featuring dramatic rock towers rising from golden sands.

Yes, several natural monuments in Cornwall are suitable for families. Lizard Point offers facilities and easy access, while Land's End also provides family-friendly amenities. Many coastal areas like Kynance Cove offer beautiful beaches and opportunities for exploration, though some may involve steep paths.

Cornwall's natural monuments showcase a rich geological history. You'll find dramatic granite formations like The Cheesewring and the towering stacks at Bedruthan Steps. Lizard Point is renowned for its unique serpentinite rock, part of an ophiolite complex. Millook Haven on the north coast features visually stunning zig-zag folded sandstones and shales, offering a glimpse into Carboniferous era geology.

Many natural monuments are integrated into excellent hiking routes. The South West Coast Path offers access to dramatic coastal formations like Land's End and Trevose Head. For inland adventures, you can hike to Brown Willy Summit or explore the area around The Cheesewring on Bodmin Moor. For more detailed routes, explore the Running Trails in Cornwall guide.

Beyond hiking, Cornwall's natural monuments offer diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking on routes like the 'Goss Moor, Bishop's Wood and Camel Estuary loop' or 'The Poldice Valley, Mineral Tramway & Stithians Lake loop' found in the Gravel biking in Cornwall guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the 'Coast to Coast Trail' available in the Cycling in Cornwall guide. Many coastal areas are also great for photography and wildlife spotting.

The mild maritime climate makes Cornwall's natural monuments enjoyable year-round. Spring brings vibrant flora, especially in woodlands like Golitha Falls, while summer offers warmer weather for coastal exploration. Autumn provides dramatic skies and fewer crowds. Even in winter, the wild coastal panoramas at places like Hell's Mouth or the rugged beauty of Bodmin Moor can be breathtaking, though some access points might be affected by weather.

Yes, several sites are steeped in history and legend. Bedruthan Steps Rock Formations are said to be stepping stones for a giant. Logan Rock at Treen is famous for its historical dislodgement and replacement. St Nectan's Kieve (Glen) near Tintagel is associated with King Arthur. Bodmin Moor, home to The Cheesewring and Brown Willy Summit, is scattered with prehistoric remains.

For dramatic coastal views, visit Land's End, the most westerly point of mainland England, offering jagged granite cliffs. Lizard Point provides stunning vistas and unique serpentinite rock. Hell's Mouth near Godrevy offers untamed beauty with craggy cliffs, and Trevose Head juts into the Atlantic with expansive views. Bedruthan Steps Rock Formations are also a must-see for their distinctive sea stacks.

Beyond the coast, Cornwall offers enchanting inland natural wonders. St Nectan's Kieve (Glen) features a magical 60-foot waterfall plunging through a circular hole. Golitha Falls is a series of spectacular cascades along the River Fowey, flowing through ancient oak woodland. On Bodmin Moor, you'll find The Cheesewring, a unique granite rock formation, and Brown Willy Summit, the highest peak in Cornwall.

Yes, several natural monuments are excellent for wildlife. Lizard Point and its surrounding cliffs are rich in wildlife, supporting rare and unusual flora. Kynance Cove also boasts rich flora and fauna. The ancient oak woodland of Golitha Falls is a National Nature Reserve, home to diverse plant life including over 120 species of moss, and offers opportunities to spot woodland creatures.

Trail difficulty varies significantly. Many coastal paths, such as sections of the South West Coast Path, can be challenging with steep ascents and descents, like the steps down to Bedruthan Steps Rock Formations. Inland, climbing to Brown Willy Summit involves a moderate to challenging hike across moorland. However, many sites also offer easier, more accessible paths, particularly around visitor centers like Lizard Point.