As the most westerly village in the UK, this Cornish village has a claim to fame that is enough in and of itself to have visitors flocking to its doors
As Britain’s most westerly village, this Cornish settlement boasts a unique distinction that alone draws countless visitors to its shores.
Blessed with a temperate climate, exotic gardens, and miles of stunning coastline dotted with independent retailers, St Just offers a full day of exploration and attractions.
Situated close to Land’s End and merely eight miles from Penzance, this picturesque spot is also rich in heritage, having once served as the heart of the tin mining trade.
At St Just’s core stands Plain-an-Gwarry, a theatre that staged performances during medieval times.
Today it plays host to the Lafrowda Festival, according to Cornwall Guide, reports the Express.
Within the grounds of St Just Church, visitors will discover magnificent exotic gardens that have thrived in the Roseland peninsula’s gentle climate.
Hailed as one of Britain’s most stunning churchyards by poet John Betjeman, it descends towards an enchanting creek.
The location also sits alongside Cape Cornwall, which seafaring navigators of yesteryear mistook for ‘Land’s End’, marking where the English Channel and St Georges Channel converge.
Heinz Ltd purchased the cape for the nation in 1987 before gifting it to the National Trust to commemorate the firm’s centenary, according to Visit Cornwall.
Local residents have nicknamed the coastal rocks “General De Gaul in the bath” due to their distinctive silhouette when seen from the mainland. Every year, a swim event takes place covering the mile between the rocks and the cove.
If you’re up for a dip in the sea, you might spot some grey seals frolicking in the waters.
The South West Coast Path is a treasure trove of hidden beaches waiting to be discovered. Many of these picturesque spots were featured in the BBC’s hit series Poldark, which delves into the area’s smuggling history.
Locations include Botallack, Levant and Geevor.
According to Tripadvisor, you can embark on a tour of these filming locations.
One visitor shared their five-star experience: “We had such a lovely day with Becky. She was so knowledgeable not just about Poldark but about the history and culture of Cornwall. We also had a stop at the Minack Theater which was fantastic and although not related to Poldark was a unique piece of Cornish history that was so fun to explore. 10/10 would highly recommend.”
Botallack mine is another must-visit site, earning high praise on Tripadvisor. The stunning views offer a glimpse of a jagged and dramatic coastline.
Another visitor gave the experience five stars, saying: “Incredible views of the remains of the Crowns, Cornish engine houses perched on the cliff edge. Right on the SWCP coast path, a path leads down to the engine house or there are benches at the top of the path where you can have a picnic and enjoy the view.”
They added: “Nearby Botallack Counthouse (National Trust) is a café which serves home made pasties and cakes and has games to entertain children. Large car park (pay and display, National Trust members free). A fabulous place to visit in any weather, in hazy summer sun or in passionate winter storms.”