Things to Do at Godrevy, Cornwall

Godrevy beach and lighthouse is a naturally beautiful area in Cornwall, preserved by the National Trust. In the summer, Godrevy is popular with surfers and sun worshippers, but is open all year round for visitors to admire the stunning views. Located five miles from Hayle, a little outside St.Ives, Godrevy is a place many people would pass right by if they didn't already know it was there. It is a place not to be missed though, providing gorgeous scenery, clean beaches and the best possible view of Godrevy Lighthouse.

Visit the beach
Godrevy beach is not the biggest in Cornwall but it is one of the best if you are a keen surfer. It is situated in the most exposed area of St Ives Bay which leads to it picking up the most swell, but the wind can often be a problem. In the summer months, RNLI lifeguards keep watch on the large amounts of people riding the waves but is un-manned the rest of the year as the desire to surf there is much lower when the weather cools.

Take a walk and view the nature
If you aren't much of a surfer or a sun worshipper, those aren't the only things to do at Godrevy. Tourists love to stroll along the clifftops, looking out to the sea. The waves are rarely still so there is always massive potential for taking some excellent photographs. If you enjoy a nice stroll, be sure you are wearing sensible shoes because heels and rocks do not mix well! Also, take extra care near the edges of the cliffs.

There is much nature to be found there too. In the warmer months you will see many varieties of butterflies but there are plenty of birds which are commonly found there. Birds you are most likely to see include the Cormorant, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Herring Gull and the Kestrel. If you are keen on flowers, you will enjoy walking along paths filled with wild flowers such as Bell Heather, Meadow Vetchling and Blackthorn, among others. It is literally a dream for nature lovers!

See Godrevy Lighthouse
The most famous landmark at Godrevy, is the lighthouse. Godrevy Island is a glorious sight quite a short way into the sea - but far enough out to require a lighthouse. It is formed from cliffs that rise up from the sea and has a fairly gentle slope down into the water. Because it looks like the distance from the land to the island isn't too great, many people have tried to swim over to it but have got into much difficulty from the punishing waves - usually needing to be rescued by the Coastguard. At the time of writing this, the only way onto the island is by helicopter and that is not something just anyone can do, unfortunately. Godrevy Lighthouse was first built in 1859 after many vessels had crashed into a dangerous reef near St Ives, killing the crews on board. The lighthouse did its job and it was renovated in 1939, and again in 1995 when it was turne d into a solar powered lighthouse.

Lunch at Godrevy Cafe
When you have finished marvelling at the beautiful sights, you can head over to the café for something to eat. This café is truly one of the best in the area. They serve the usual teas and coffees, plus many locally made fruit juices and lemonade. The food ranges from trendy, healthy food to delicious cakes so you will surely find something on the menu that will suit you.

If you are planning a trip to Cornwall, Godrevy is a fantastic place to visit. For long walks, interesting nature or simply to relax on the beach, you will find something there to keep you entertained for at least a few hours. If you don't think the scenery will interest you for that long, it also makes an excellent stopover point for lunch. Whatever you decide to do, Godrevy definitely deserves a place in your Cornwall itinerary!