Top 20 Natural Monuments around St. Kew
Best natural monuments around St. Kew are found within the broader Cornish landscape, characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and proximity to the north coast. St. Kew serves as a base for exploring the region's diverse natural heritage. The area offers access to dramatic coastlines, open moorland, and unique geological formations. Visitors can experience traditional Cornish countryside and coastal scenery.
Best natural monuments around St. Kew
- The most popular natural monuments is The Rumps (Iron Age fort), a natural monument…
Last updated: August 10, 2026
Rough Tor
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Tintagel Castle Bridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Stepper Point Daymark Tower
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
The Rumps (Iron Age fort)
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Merlin's Cave and Merlin's Face Carving
Highlight • Cave
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around St. Kew.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around St. Kew
Tips from the Community
Stepper Point Daymark Tower is a striking, stone-built 1830s lighthouse that towers high above the cliffs at the northern end of Stepper Point, near Padstow in Cornwall. The round lighthouse, over nine metres high, was originally built to safely guide and warn ships into the mouth of the River Camel and Padstow harbour, alerting them to the infamous and dangerous sandbank, The Doom Bar. Today, the tower is a beloved and photogenic landmark for walkers on the iconic South West Coast Path. From the cliffs surrounding the tower, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean, the rugged north Cornwall coastline, and the inner reaches of the Camel Estuary.
0
0
Even at low tide, there is still water in the cave. In some places you can balance along the edge and you may have to take your shoes off. A group played and sang mystical/Celtic music for us. It suited this place perfectly 👍.
8
0
"Merlin's Face" The carving was completed in February 2016 by local craftsman Peter Graham, who described the work as a "temporary intervention" that would be eroded by the weather. Mr Graham hoped the carving would capture people's imagination and said he had received "overwhelming support" from visitors to the site.
3
0
How much poorer would European literature be if he didn't exist: MERLIN (according to Wikipedia, the Welsh origin of the name is Myrddin or Merddin) is one of the biggest stars in the sky of mythology. Together with the heroic King Arthur, he has conquered a permanent place in the collective memory of people - at least in the fantasy world of countless authors who have told his story over and over again for centuries, and above all in their ever-fascinating readers or listeners. Daniela has already briefly mentioned in her article the historical connection between this hiking highlight with the beautiful name "Merlin's Cave" and the person of the legendary magician. And the main thing is, of course: the myth lives on!
6
1
You can go through the cave once at low tide and come out on the other side, but not with dry feet, and only in the "deep" stage at low tide. Very interesting and a bit scary, but a lot of fun.
3
0
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.
0
0
So in strong winds the bridge is closed. However, the rune can also be seen very clearly from Hotel Camelot and at the café below the peninsula.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around St. Kew?
The area around St. Kew offers a diverse range of natural monuments, from dramatic coastal headlands and secluded coves to open moorland with impressive granite tors. You can experience rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and ancient geological formations that showcase Cornwall's unique natural beauty.
Are there any natural monuments with historical significance near St. Kew?
Yes, several natural monuments also hold historical importance. For example, The Rumps (Iron Age fort) is a headland where excavations have revealed stone-faced ramparts and circular houses from the Iron Age. Similarly, Rough Tor on Bodmin Moor features ancient settlements alongside its striking granite formations.
Which natural monuments offer the best panoramic views?
For breathtaking vistas, consider visiting The Rumps (Iron Age fort), where you can see offshore rocks and miles out into the Atlantic. Another excellent spot is Stepper Point Daymark Tower, which provides expansive views over the rugged Cornish coastline.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or beaches suitable for children?
Absolutely. St George's Cove, just a short walk from Padstow, is a lovely sheltered beach with vast golden sands at low tide, perfect for families to explore. While swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, it's ideal for playing and enjoying the views.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region around St. Kew is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, gravel biking, and running. For example, the Camel Trail offers easy cycling paths, while more challenging routes explore the coastal areas and Bodmin Moor. You can find detailed guides for gravel biking, cycling, and running trails around St. Kew.
What is Bodmin Moor like, and what natural features can I find there?
Bodmin Moor, located southeast of St. Kew, is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It's characterized by wild, open moorland, ancient granite tors like Rough Tor, and a sense of wilderness. You might also spot wild ponies and discover ancient historical sites amidst the natural landscape.
Is there a good time of year to visit the natural monuments around St. Kew?
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures ideal for coastal walks and moorland hikes. However, autumn can bring beautiful colours to the landscape, and even winter offers dramatic, rugged scenery for those prepared for cooler, potentially wetter conditions.
Are there any hidden natural gems or less-known spots worth discovering?
While not directly in St. Kew, the wider North Cornwall area holds hidden gems like St Nectan's Glen, a hidden waterfall in an ancient woodland known for its serene and mystical atmosphere. Exploring the less-trafficked paths along the Lansallos to Polperro Coast can also reveal secluded coves and dramatic cliff views away from the main crowds.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter near these natural monuments?
Along the coast, you might spot various seabirds, and if you're lucky, marine life such as seals. On Bodmin Moor, wild ponies are a common sight, and the rural landscapes of the Allen Valley offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna typical of the Cornish countryside.
How accessible are the natural monuments around St. Kew?
Accessibility varies by location. Coastal paths and moorland trails can be rugged and uneven, requiring a reasonable level of fitness. Some areas, like St George's Cove, are relatively easy to reach from nearby towns. It's advisable to check specific highlight details for information on terrain and difficulty before planning your visit.
Can I combine a visit to a natural monument with a historical site?
Yes, many natural monuments in the area are intertwined with history. For instance, Tintagel Castle Bridge, while a modern structure, provides access to the ruins of Tintagel Castle, set on a dramatic coastal peninsula. Similarly, The Rumps is a natural headland that also served as an Iron Age fort.
Most popular attractions around St. Kew
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around St. Kew:
