Bedruthan Steps

Dog-friendly

Bedruthan Steps is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular and dramatic stretches of coastline in all of Cornwall. It is famous worldwide for its gigantic, striking sea stacks that rise majestically from the ocean. At low tide, these monumental formations stretch across a wide, golden sandy beach, creating a truly awe-inspiring landscape. According to fascinating local legend, the towering slate rock formations were used as stepping stones by a mythological giant named Bedruthan so he could cross the bay dry-shod. The rugged beauty of the landscape and the deep blue ocean make it a paradise for photographers and hikers on the South West Coast Path.

However, visitors must be aware of one critical piece of information: the steep and iconic cliff steps that once led down to the beach have been permanently closed indefinitely due to severe and life-threatening rockfalls. This means that the sandy beach itself cannot currently be accessed safely by foot. The relentless power of the Atlantic Ocean and ongoing coastal erosion have made the cliffs exceptionally unstable, and visitor safety is the absolute priority for the managing authorities.

Despite this restriction, visiting the site remains an unforgettable experience. The safe clifftop paths, carefully managed by the National Trust, offer some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the entire United Kingdom. During the spring and summer months, the cliff edges are blanketed in vibrant wildflowers, and on clear, calm days, lucky visitors can even spot seals swimming in the foaming waves far below.

Practical info

Beach typesandy

WaterThe ocean here is characterized by exceptionally strong, unpredictable rip currents and heavy surf; swimming is strictly prohibited and highly dangerous.

Getting thereAccess is exclusively via the safe clifftop paths starting from the Carnewas car park. The old steps leading down to the beach are permanently closed off due to massive rockfalls.

ParkingThere is a large pay-and-display National Trust car park available at Carnewas, which is completely free for members of the organization.

EntranceAccess to the magnificent clifftop paths and viewpoints is completely free of charge, with fees only applying for the car park.

LifeguardThere is no lifeguard cover on this stretch of coastline, as the beach is completely inaccessible and there is a strict bathing ban.

ShadeThere is absolutely no natural shade along the exposed clifftop paths, making sunscreen and a hat essential on sunny days.

Best timeThe absolute best time to visit is during low tide, when the gigantic sea stacks can be viewed in their full scale on the exposed sand.

NearbyThe bustling surf mecca of Newquay and the picturesque harbour town of Padstow are just a short drive away. If you're looking for an accessible bathing beach, nearby Mawgan Porth is ideal.

Family-friendly & For kids

The area is brilliant for families looking to enjoy a scenic coastal walk with stunning views, but it is not suitable for a traditional beach holiday with children.

Due to the beach closure, there are no waterside play opportunities, but the nearby cafe offers ice cream and kid-friendly refreshments after your walk.

Food & drink

Carnewas Tea Rooms — Enjoy a traditional Cornish cream tea with freshly baked scones right on the clifftop.
Padstow Seafood Restaurants — Head to nearby Padstow for world-class fresh seafood and authentic fish and chips.
Local Bakeries — Pick up a warm, hearty Cornish pasty, the perfect portable snack for a coastal walk.

Facilities

Cafe
Toilets
Car park
Viewpoints
Walking trails

Events nearby

Bedruthan Christmas Fayre annually late November (Sat-Sun) at Bedruthan Hotel & Spa, Mawgan Porth; 2025 edition was 22-23 November, 2026 dates not yet confirmed · annual
Annual craft and gift fair at the Bedruthan Hotel & Spa in Mawgan Porth, featuring art, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, homewares and local food and drink stalls. Source
St Eval Church Flower Festival annually, normally the last weekend in June, at St Eval Parish Church (about 3 km from the beach) · annual
Long-running community flower festival at the historic Grade I listed St Eval Church, with floral displays created by local volunteers and home-made refreshments. Source
Falcon Fest annually in June at The Falcon Inn, St Mawgan (about 5 km away); a weekend of live music, cider, ales and street food in the pub garden · annual
A weekend music and drink festival held in the garden of The Falcon Inn in the village of St Mawgan, with live bands, local ciders and ales, and street food. Source
Boardmasters Festival annually in August at Watergate Bay and Fistral Beach, Newquay (Watergate Bay is roughly 6 km from the beach) · annual
Cornwall's largest music and surf festival, held on the cliffs above Watergate Bay near Newquay, with a major line-up of music acts plus surfing and skating competitions. Source
Bedruthan Live (RE:SET summer music series) summer season at Bedruthan Steps campsite, Mawgan Porth, with an outdoor live music series alongside wellness workshops · annual
Summer programme of outdoor live music at the Bedruthan Steps campsite in Mawgan Porth, accompanied by yoga, sound baths and wellness sessions in the tipi field. Source

Tips

Check the tide times before arriving, as the panoramic views are far more impressive at low tide.
Strictly keep to the officially marked paths and never step too close to the crumbling cliff edges.
Wear sturdy and comfortable walking shoes, as the unpaved coastal paths can be very uneven.
Under no circumstances should you attempt to climb down to the closed beach for your own safety.

FAQ

Why is the beach closed?

Due to severe and ongoing rockfalls, the steps were severely damaged and access has been suspended indefinitely for public safety.

Are dogs allowed on the clifftop paths?

Yes, dogs are allowed all year round, but they must be kept on a short lead near the steep cliff edges.

Where does the name 'Bedruthan Steps' come from?

According to legend, the large sea stacks were stepping stones used by a mythological giant named Bedruthan.

Are there toilets available?

Yes, there are public toilets located near the National Trust car park at Carnewas.

Places nearby

Beaches nearby

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