Bedruthan Steps

One of Cornwall’s most dramatic beaches, Bedruthan Steps, whose jagged slate outcrops were traditionally held to be the stepping-stones of a giant called Bedruthan, a legendary figure conjured into existence in the 19th century. Some of the larger of these massive flat-topped slabs have been given names of their own. Samaritan Island is named after a ship wrecked on the beach in 1846 - with the locals ‘rescuing’ the cargo of luxurious silks and satins for themselves.  Another rock, whose curious formation has been likened to the profile of Queen Elizabeth I, is referred to as Queen Bess Rock. However, any resemblance there ever was to the Virgin Queen has long since been wiped away by the wind and the waves. By far the best view of the beach can be found from the grassy clifftops 300 feet above. The beach makes a great place to ramble about, but swimming at Bedruthan Steps is not advised owing to the rocks and often violent waves.

The area around Bedruthan is also rich in prehistoric sites; within two miles there are no less than six Bronze Age barrows and two cliff castles dating from the Iron Age.

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