Best attractions and places to see around St. Merryn include its iconic coastline, historical sites, and natural landmarks. This North Cornwall village is known for its "Seven Bays for Seven Days" motto, referring to seven distinct beaches within a short radius. The area offers a diverse range of attractions, from its dramatic headlands to ancient ruins and family-friendly activities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Popular around St. Merryn
The steps have probably been closed for a while, as have all beach access at Porthcothan Beach. It's hard to tell from the highlights. The panorama is gigantic, but unfortunately there is no swimming break...
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Dogs are allowed on most Cornish beaches in the off season. For exact dates go to https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/environment/animal-welfare-and-enforcement/dogs-on-beaches/.
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This is the daytime equivalent of a lighthouse, a daymark tower. It is a navigational aid for seafarers which marks out the safe passage channel. It sits proudly here atop Stepper Point.
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Popular with surfers and families alike, Trevone Bay has good swell yet a gently sloping beach as well as plenty of rocks and caves for children to explore. There are toilets, a cafe and a shop at the beach and just a short step inland Trevone has plenty more facilities to offer. It is a good place to park and run round the coastline to Padstow.
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Very wide view over the sea, small islands in sight, it's worth taking binoculars with you.
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Padstow is famous for it's beautiful harbour, sandy beaches and amazing fish restaurants. Whether you grab fish and chips and sit on the harbour wall, or sample TV chef Rick Stein's first restaurant, the beaches and the food are not to be missed whilst you're here!
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St. Merryn is famous for its "Seven Bays for Seven Days." Among them, Constantine Bay is frequently recognized as one of the UK's best beaches for its wide sands and dunes. Harlyn Bay is often considered the safest family beach due to its shelter, making it excellent for learning to surf. Treyarnon Bay features a natural tidal pool for safer swimming, and Trevone Bay is popular with surfers and families alike, offering good swell and a gently sloping beach.
For breathtaking coastal vistas, visit Trevose Head, home to the iconic Trevose Head Lighthouse. This headland offers panoramic sea views and is popular for walking and birdwatching. Another excellent spot is Stepper Point Daymark Tower, which provides wonderful views over the Cornish coastline. Further south, the dramatic slate stacks of Bedruthan Steps create a picturesque landscape.
Yes, the area boasts several historical sites. The Rumps (Iron Age fort) on Rumps Point offers extensive views and insights into ancient settlements. You can also visit St Merryn Church, with Norman foundations and 15th-century elements, and the ruins of the medieval St Constantine Chapel in the dunes, alongside a holy well.
Families have plenty of options. Camel Creek Adventure Park is one of Cornwall's largest theme parks with outdoor rides and indoor entertainment. For older children and adults, St Eval Kart Circuit offers over 1.3 km of outdoor go-karting. The Cornish Birds of Prey Centre houses over 50 birds and offers flying displays. Additionally, many of the bays, like Harlyn Bay, are ideal for family beach days and learning to surf.
Absolutely! St. Merryn is a great base for cycling. You can find various routes for different types of cycling, including road cycling, touring, and gravel biking. For example, there are routes like the 'Padstow Harbour – St. Petroc's Church loop' for road cycling or the 'Padstow Harbour – Iron Bridge on the Camel Trail loop' for touring. You can explore more options and detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes around St. Merryn and Cycling around St. Merryn guides.
Yes, the North Cornwall Coastal Path follows the clifftops around St. Merryn, offering numerous walking opportunities. Popular walks include the dramatic headlands of Trevose Head and Stepper Point, which provide stunning views. Many of the bays, like Constantine Bay and Mother Ivey's Bay, also offer pleasant walks along the sand and dunes. Always check local conditions, especially tide times for beach access.
Just a short distance away, Padstow Harbour is a charming fishing town known for its picturesque harbor, rich history, and excellent restaurants. You can also visit the National Lobster Hatchery, dedicated to marine conservation, or explore Prideaux Place, an Elizabethan manor house with beautiful gardens.
Beyond the famous bays, Treyarnon Bay is notable for its natural tidal pool, which offers a unique and safe swimming experience at low tide. Trevone Bay also features a deep crater known as the "Round Hole" near the beach, which is interesting to explore.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning coastal scenery and the diverse range of activities. The dramatic cliffs, expansive sandy beaches, and historical sites like The Rumps (Iron Age fort) and Stepper Point Daymark Tower are highly appreciated for their views and historical significance. The variety of beaches, from surfing hotspots to family-friendly coves, also receives high marks.
Yes, golf enthusiasts can enjoy the Trevose Golf & Country Club located at Constantine Bay. It offers a spectacular links course that attracts players globally, along with two other courses suitable for varying abilities.
Definitely! Harlyn Surf School at Harlyn Bay provides lessons for all ages in surfing, paddleboarding, and even coasteering. Harlyn Bay's sheltered nature makes it an excellent spot for beginners.
While not directly in St. Merryn, a short drive towards Newquay will lead you to the Japanese Garden and Bonsai Nursery, an authentic Japanese garden with traditional features, offering a tranquil and unique cultural experience.


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