With temperatures rising across the UK and schools still off for the summer break, it can only mean one thing — Cornwall’s gorgeous beaches are being invaded. Those in search of peace and tranquillity needn’t look much further though as we’ve found a hidden gem that’s away from the crowds.
Known for always being quiet and exuding a sort of subtle solitude, this beach tucked away on the eastern side of the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall is a renowned spot for snorkelling.
The chances of stumbling across this secluded cove nestled on the Cornish coast are pretty slim, as the coast path veers away to round the nearby quarries at Dean Point and Porthoustock — skipping over this picturesque spot. In fact, visitors wouldn’t know it, but this hidden gem sits smack between the two quarries.
Leggan Cove is a stunning, largely undiscovered beach that’s great for a family day out, especially with young ones. With a fairly easy and accessible walk to the beach, one needn’t risk their lives scrambling down steep cliff faces and rocky trails to get to this hidden gem.
The sand at this beach is an unusual coarse grey, which only seems to emphasise the surrounding crystal clear blue sea. It also features several rock pools for kids to enjoy as well.
The reason behind Leggan Cove’s quietness may be this — it’s quite a walk from the nearest parking, which is located at the small nearby village of Rosenithon. This is largely considered to be the reason behind the beach maintaining its peace and quiet, even during peak season.
Situated on the sheltered eastern side of the Lizard Peninsular, Leggan Cove is backed by gently sloping cliffs. The sea (also relatively sheltered) tends to be a lot calmer at this secluded spot, making it ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Those looking to stay on dry land can frolic in the cove’s rock pools which reveal themselves at low tide.
This sandy beach is dog-friendly all year round, however there are no lifeguards in the area so visitors and their pets are advised to exercise caution. There are also no facilities at Leggan’s Cove, so those visiting are urged to carry their own refreshments and other beachgoing items that are necessary for a fun day at the beach.
Just over a mile offshore from Leggan’s cove lies the barely submerged Mannacles reef. The notorious rocks there have tragically cost the lives of over a thousand people throughout the centuries.
The coastal path near Leggan’s Cove is diverted around the quarry at Porthoustock so visitors are advised to walk down the footpath from the quaint village of Rosenithon rather than look for a direct alternative route. Rosenithon is just over half a mile east of St Keverne.
The footpath from there is known to be the only exit towards the coast from the centre of the hamlet. After taking a left turn, the footpath then follows a stream down through some fields towards the neighbouring Godrevy Cove.
Leggan Cove sits picturesquely on the left of Godrevy Cove and can be accessed via the sand at low tide or by a climb over the rocks during higher tides.
