Things to do at Trevose Head

A visitor walking at Trevose Head, Cornwall — Walking at Trevose Head | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Jutting out into the ocean, the headland at Trevose provides far-reaching views as well as important habitats for wildlife. It lies in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and about 32 hectares are part of the Constantine Bay Site of Special Scientific Interest for its sea cliffs, maritime grassland, heath and wet habitats. This means a rich variety of wildlife and marine species to discover.

Spot Cornish wildlife

Trevose Head provides the perfect landscape for Cornish wildlife to thrive. The sea cliffs are particularly special, as they’re home to several rare and uncommon plants. These include shore dock, wild asparagus, rock sea-lavender, tree mallow and golden samphire.

Seabirds and seals

There's also a range of birds to look out for, such as fulmars, razorbills, peregrines and guillemots. While down below, marine wildlife can be seen from the headland, with grey seals regularly visiting this part of the north coast.

Visitor walking their dog along the coast with wildflowers in the foreground at Trevose Head, Cornwall — Visitor walking their dog along the coast at Trevose Head | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Wildflowers at Trevose Head

Caring for the headland’s coastal wildflower meadows is a big part of the conservation work being carried out in North Cornwall.

In bloom during spring and summer, the wildflowers make a great habitat for various insects, such as bees, soldier beetles and butterflies. Some flowers to look out for include birds-foot trefoil, yellow rattle, eyebright and oxeye daisy.

Photographing the flowers

It can be tempting to explore and photograph the flowers at Trevose Head. While the enthusiasm is always welcome, avoid damaging the plants by keeping feet – and paws – on the footpaths.

View from Trevose Head across Booby's Bay towards Constantine Island | © National Trust Images/Sue Brackenbury

Booby's Bay and beyond

To the west of Trevose Head you'll find Booby's Bay. This area also boasts Constantine Island and an old fisherman’s shelter, known as Tom Parson’s Hut. While the hut isn’t open to the public, the area does offer wonderful views of Trevose Head and Constantine Bay.

Walking

You can use Trevose Head as a base for some great coastal walks. The South West Coast Path snakes around the entire headland and there are various footpaths that cut back inland. On a clear day you can see the headlands of west Cornwall and Pentire Head to the north. You'll find an information board with suggested walking route at both car parks.

Grazing livestock

Livestock can graze at Trevose Head throughout the year. When you’re walking, please look out for signs with up-to-date information about grazing animals that might be on the footpath ahead.

Surfing at Booby’s Bay

Harlyn Surf School run surf lessons at Booby’s Bay as well as nearby Harlyn beach (neither are National Trust). Also offering kit hire, they have a base at the summer car park at Trevose where you can find out more. Or visit their website here.