A Visitor's Introduction to Land's End

Why Visit Land’s End?

Land’s End is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing Cornwall’s wild beauty. With its stunning coastal views, rich wildlife, and numerous walking trails, it’s a paradise for photographers, hikers, and those seeking tranquility. The site’s visitor attractions and facilities make it suitable for all ages, offering a mix of natural landscapes, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to learn about the local history and environment. 

Whether you are there to admire the views, take a coastal hike, learn about maritime history, or simply enjoy a Cornish cream tea while gazing out over the Atlantic, Land’s End offers a unique experience in one of England’s most spectacular settings.

Land's End Highlights

1. The Land’s End Signpost: The iconic Land’s End signpost is one of the most photographed landmarks in the UK. It marks the starting or finishing point of the Land’s End to John o’Groats journey and offers a personalised photo opportunity for visitors. You can have your name or location displayed on the signpost as a keepsake of your visit, a popular tradition for tourists.

2. The Rugged Cliffs and Coastal Views: The dramatic cliffs at Land’s End offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. From this vantage point, visitors can see towering rock formations, deep blue waters, and waves crashing against the cliffs below. On clear days, you can spot the Isles of Scilly on the horizon. The cliffs are part of the South West Coast Path, a long-distance walking trail, and offer several scenic hiking routes, making it a great destination for walkers and nature lovers.

3. The First and Last House: The First and Last House is a small shop and café located near the cliff edge, marking the last house in England before the vast Atlantic Ocean. It serves refreshments and sells souvenirs, including locally made products and memorabilia celebrating Land’s End. This quaint and picturesque building has become a symbolic spot for those completing their journey across the length of Britain.

4. Longships Lighthouse: Located offshore, the Longships Lighthouse is one of the most notable features visible from Land’s End. Built in the 19th century, this lighthouse stands on a group of rocky islets known as Longships Rocks and has helped guide ships safely past the dangerous Cornish coastline for over a century. While visitors cannot access the lighthouse itself, it makes for a striking view against the often tumultuous ocean backdrop.

5. Greeb Farm: For families, Greeb Farm offers a fun and interactive experience just a short walk from the main Land’s End site. The small farm features a variety of animals, including sheep, goats, and chickens, and offers craft workshops where visitors can try their hand at traditional Cornish skills like pottery and jewellery-making. It’s a great activity for children and a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.

6. Land’s End Visitor Centre and Exhibitions: The Land’s End Visitor Centre provides a range of interactive exhibits and educational displays that explore the history, culture, and natural environment of this famous landmark. It covers topics such as maritime history, shipwrecks along the Cornish coast, and the story of the "End to End" journey. The visitor centre is also home to a 4D cinema experience, which offers a thrilling virtual journey through Cornwall’s landscapes.

7. The South West Coast Path: Land’s End is part of the South West Coast Path, one of the UK’s most famous walking routes. The trail runs for 630 miles along the coastline from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset, and the section around Land’s End is especially beautiful, offering hikers dramatic views of cliffs, coves, and offshore rock formations. There are several shorter walking routes in the area, making it accessible for walkers of all levels.

8. Wildlife and Birdwatching: Land’s End is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The cliffs are home to a variety of seabirds, including gulls, kittiwakes, and razorbills. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, and it’s not uncommon to spot seals basking on the rocks or even dolphins and porpoises swimming in the ocean. The nearby RSPB sanctuary offers more opportunities for wildlife observation, especially during the breeding season.

9. Shipwrecks and Maritime History: The coastline around Land’s End is known for its treacherous waters, and many shipwrecks have occurred here over the centuries. The area’s maritime history is commemorated in various displays, including exhibits in the visitor centre and plaques around the site that tell the stories of famous shipwrecks. Exploring this part of Land’s End offers a fascinating glimpse into the dangers of seafaring along Cornwall’s rugged coast.

Land's End Facilities

Land’s End is well-equipped with visitor facilities, making it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for a full day out:

Cafés and Restaurants: There are several places to eat at Land’s End, offering a range of refreshments from light snacks to full meals. The Land’s End Restaurant serves traditional Cornish fare, including pasties and cream teas, while other options include takeaway food stalls and picnic areas.
  
Shopping: The visitor complex includes a number of shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and Land’s End memorabilia. The First and Last House is a popular stop for gifts and keepsakes, while the Land’s End Trading Company offers a variety of goods from the region.

Parking: There is ample parking available on-site, including spaces for cars, coaches, and disabled parking. The car park is conveniently located within walking distance of the main attractions.

Accessibility: Land’s End is accessible to visitors with mobility issues, with wheelchair-friendly paths, accessible restrooms, and disabled parking. Some of the cliff-top paths are uneven, but alternative routes are available for those who need them.

Restrooms: Public restrooms, including accessible facilities, are available at various locations around the site.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: Land’s End is open year-round, though certain attractions, such as the visitor centre and exhibitions, may have seasonal hours. The main complex typically opens from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, but outdoor areas are accessible at any time of day.

Admission: While access to the cliff-top paths and coastal views is free, some attractions, such as the 4D cinema, exhibitions, and Greeb Farm, require paid admission. Combination tickets are available for families or groups who want to explore multiple attractions.

Getting There: Land’s End is located about 10 miles west of Penzance, Cornwall, and can be reached by car via the A30. Public transportation options include buses from Penzance and other nearby towns. During the summer months, an open-top bus service, the "Land’s End Coaster," provides scenic journeys to the site.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to the stunning scenery and experiences at Land’s End, there are several other nearby attractions worth visiting:

Sennen Cove: A short drive from Land’s End, Sennen Cove is a picturesque coastal village known for its sandy beach and excellent surfing conditions. It’s a great place for swimming, walking, or enjoying fresh seafood at local cafés.
  
Minack Theatre: Just 30 minutes away, this world-famous open-air theatre is carved into the cliffs above Porthcurno Beach and offers spectacular views over the sea, along with a variety of performances during the summer season.

St. Michael’s Mount: Located near Penzance, this iconic tidal island is home to a medieval castle and picturesque gardens. It’s accessible on foot at low tide or by boat when the tide is in.

Porthcurno Beach and Telegraph Museum: Famous for its stunning white sands and turquoise waters, Porthcurno Beach is ideal for a peaceful day out. The nearby Telegraph Museum offers insights into Cornwall’s role in global communications history.