It is one of only two places in the United Kingdom officially designated as a cape.
The prominent chimney on the summit is the only surviving structure of the Cape Cornwall Mine, which ceased operations in 1883.
The two offshore rocks known as The Brisons are often called 'General de Gaulle in his bath' due to their resemblance to the French leader.
It is an important site for the 'Cornish Chough,' a rare bird that re-colonized the area in the early 21st century.
The headland is a significant geological site, featuring rare metamorphic rocks known as hornfels.
The National Trust purchased the headland in 1987 to prevent further development and preserve its landscape.
Cape Cornwall is one of only two capes in the United Kingdom and marks the point where the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean diverge. It is owned and managed by the National Trust and is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The headland is crowned by the chimney of the former Cape Cornwall Mine, a relic of the area's 19th-century tin mining heritage. The site is a prominent location on the South West Coast Path, offering views of the Brisons, two offshore rocks famous for shipwrecks. It sits within the St Just Mining District, a component of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site. The coastal environment is characterized by rugged cliff paths, heathland vegetation, and a significant bird population. It remains largely undeveloped, maintaining a raw and exposed maritime character.
The viewpoint looking back toward the mine chimney with the Brisons rocks visible in the background.
Bring a windbreaker even in summer, as the headland is extremely exposed to Atlantic winds.
Wear sturdy, treaded footwear, as the coastal paths can be muddy, steep, and uneven.
Check the tide charts if you plan to walk along the adjacent Priest's Cove beach.
Attempting to walk the steep cliff paths in flip-flops or open-toed shoes; expecting extensive visitor center amenities on-site.
Keep dogs on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds; stay on marked paths to prevent erosion and avoid cliff edges.
