Porth Chapel

A short walk from Penzance brings you to a modest beach tucked beneath high cliffs - Porth Chapel is one of those Cornish spots that feels slightly forgotten, which is precisely why it's worth the trip. The cove itself is small and sandy, flanked by dramatic granite walls that climb steeply on either side. Low tide reveals a decent stretch of beach, but come in at high tide and you're looking at a fairly cramped affair.

It's a cracking spot for families who want something quieter than the busier beaches around Penzance town itself. The walk down takes about ten minutes, though it's a bit steep coming back up - keep that in mind if you've got young children or anyone with mobility concerns. Rock pooling is decent at low tide, and the cliffs provide proper shelter from westerly winds when you need it.

Historically minded visitors will appreciate the remains of a small chapel that gave the beach its name, though there's not much to see these days beyond the story. On a clear day the views along the coast are fine, though you're not getting the drama you'd find at somewhere like Land's End, which sits a few miles west.

If you're based at Lands End Camping & Glamping nearby, Porth Chapel works as an easy morning excursion before heading elsewhere. Free to visit, naturally - it's just a beach. Allow an hour or so unless you're keen on a proper walk along the clifftops. Worth a detour if you're in the area, though don't expect solitude in high season.