This picturesque English village is home to an award-winning beach that has become a haven for holidaying UK families, world-class surfers and – according to local legend – mermaids
The coves and beaches of Cornwall have become a huge draw for both staycationers and international travellers. Cornwall boasts over 400 miles of incredible coastline so there are plenty of options to choose from, with some of the most popular beaches being in Newquay and St Ives.
That said, Sennen Cove has distinguished itself as a standout gem among the miles of seaside. Just north of Land’s End, this may be one of the best beach destinations in the region. Once reported to be a haven for mermaids, the cove is today a hotspot for surfers and holidaying families.
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The small coastal village of Sennen is just eight miles from the port town of Penzance, which is home to the nearest train station. From Penzance, travellers can also take a bus straight to Sennen Cove.
While it is the immaculate conditions of Sennen Cove that put the village on the radar of surfers and UK sunseekers, Sennen’s quaint charm as an old fishing village is what brings travellers back year after year.
In addition to housing an award-winning beach, Sennen Cove has plenty of boutique shops selling unique Cornish crafts to peruse and restaurants offering fresh and finely prepared seafood fare. The Roundhouse and Capstan art gallery are must-visit destinations for those hoping to procure Cornish crafts. Sennen Cove is unsurprisingly the area’s primary attraction, winning awards for its water quality and commitment to environmental education and protection, including the Seaside Award in 2024.
The white sand beach stretches for a mile and is easily accessible from the village. The flat sands make it a dream for sunbathers and sandcastle-builders, and south-westerly breezes from the Azores keep conditions relatively warm.
While the beach is for lazing and relaxing, the water is where all the action takes place. The high-quality waves that head towards the shore are what make Sennen Cornwall’s most westerly surf destination.
Surf centres can be found along the main stretch of beach and RNLI lifeguards monitor the surf conditions and map out safe swimming areas during peak season (between April and October).
Paddleboarders, kayakers and bodyboarders can also be seen enjoying the crystalline waters from the shore. But what about the famous Sennen Cove mermaids?
Unfortunately, you are unlikely to see any of these magical creatures from shore but you might spot another. The mermaids of the old village tale turned out to be dolphins, but the dolphins can be seen at certain times of the year.
After your day at the beach, stroll over to The National Trust’s Mayon Cliff Old Coastguard Lookout for a stunning view of the sunset. Or, if you’re up for a bigger adventure, head over to the famous nearby headland, Land’s End.
