The 449 steps (or maybe more) (Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps (Cornwall))

Member Name: cmh4135

Product:	Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps (Cornwall)
Date:	02/07/09 (85 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Spectacular views and a wonderful sense of achievement

Disadvantages: Beach not suitable for swimming, steps only suitable for the fit!

Why would you go to look at some steps? Well, rather like those who seek out Jacobs Ladder in North Wales, Bedruthan Steps on the South-West coast hold some mystique. Couple that with some absolutely amazing views along the Cornish Coastline and you have a tourist attraction!

Situated between Newquay and Padstow the Bedruthan Steps actually refer to the huge rocks on the beach rather than the actual steps down to the beach (although this is contested by some folk) however the actual steps on the cliff-side down to the beach are generally refered to as the Bedruthan Steps and are maintained by the National Trust. If you are wondering about the name it comes from mythology - Bedruthan was a giant who, apparently, placed the rocks on the beach and used them as stepping stones - an English Giant's Causeway perhaps? The cliffs themselves are the Carnewas cliffs and, in fact, it is these that the NT own rather than Bedruthan beach below but to most the area, top, steps and beach are referred to as Bedruthan.

From a car park at the top of the cliffs (owner and charged for by the National Trust) it is a gentle walk at first as you start to descend. Then, at the steps you begin to realise quite how high the cliffs are. The journey down is split into several legs and, as such, it is possible to descend and yet not reach the beach below. In fact, last time I visited I was heavily pregnant and gave up at the last stage, not because I couldn't go any further at that point but because I was very mindful of the climb back up!

The beach below is spectacular. One must be careful however as it is not a safe bathing beach and there's a strong danger of being cut-off unexpectedly. The steps are the ONLY way back up! When you see the rocks you'll appreciate the ease with which one could be cut off!

Whilst the walk and climb are relatively easy the distance should not be underestimated and so this is not suitable for the unfit, elderly or very young. You'll require stout shoes in all but the driest of weathers and, even then, they'd be advisable as whilst the paths are reasonable on the top levels the steps themselves are rather uneven. Note that the steps are closed in the winter for safety so, if travelling specifically to see the steps and the beach do check before you set off.

Toilets and a concession cafe are available next to the car park - these are the only facilities and they are seasonal. Prices in the cafe are reasonable and the toilets clean.

For spectacular views this location cannot be beaten - you might be though!


Other NT properties nearby include Trerice, an Eizabethan Manor House near to Newquay, Lanhydrock, a Victorian House not far from Bodmin and Trelissick Gardens near to Truro.

Summary: A natural spectacle!