Local Guides
A Local’s Guide to the Lizard
Out on the edge of the ocean, the Lizard Peninsula is one of the few remaining places that feels uniquely
31 July 2026
The Lizard
Home to the most southerly point in mainland Britain where serpentine cliffs plunge into turquoise seas, the Lizard Peninsula is rugged, remote and unmistakably Kernow.
Scramble to coves where seals outnumber humans, spot ships from the lighthouse, marvel at Goonhilly’s satellite dishes, and duck into cosy pubs in pretty fishing villages.
Wherever you are on the Lizard, you’re never more than a few miles from a beach: the golden sands of Poldhu, Kennack and Gunwalloe, to the mega-star Kynance and pint-sized coves we daren’t name. Whether you’re rockpooling at Church Cove, swimming off Mullion’s Victorian harbour, or strolling along the shelving sands of Loe Bar, beach life on the Lizard moves at its own wild, unhurried pace.
From coasteering the cliffs and freediving off Porthallow, to surfing at Poldhu and cycling the coast path, there’s adventure at every turn on Cornwall’s wildest peninsula. Visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, climb Lizard Lighthouse, or meet the cows behind some of Cornwall’s best ice cream at Roskilly’s.
Time your trip for Cadgwith’s Buller Day or Helston’s Flora Day for a taste of real Lizard tradition… whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just a quiet coastal walk, the Lizard delivers in spades.
From a pint and a pasty to street food, seafood and sea-view dining, there’s something to suit every taste and budget across this wild, food-loving corner of Cornwall.
Ann’s Pasties and Gear Farm fight it out for the county’s best pasty, Roskilly’s serves legendary cow-to-cone ice cream, and cosy pubs like the Cadgwith Cove Inn and the Halzephron Inn pour Cornish ales with unbeatable views and just-caught fish landed in the harbour.
Swanky sea-view hotel, cosy holiday cottage, or quirky campsite footsteps from the beach? On The Lizard, it’s up to you. The Polurrian and Housel Bay hotels are both perched above the water, with spa treatments and fine dining on tap. While Henry’s is our favourite spot to pitch a tent, with regular live music sessions and a wonderful facilities close to Lizard Point.
The Lizard is made for slow discovery – a place that rewards patience and is fiercely loved by those who give it time. Follow the coast path past the crowds at Kynance, catch a gig night at the Top House, or seek a wild little cove off the beaten track.
Out on the edge of the ocean, the Lizard Peninsula is one of the few remaining places that feels uniquely
In Cornwall we’re wired to make the most of summer. Squeezing out every last drop of sunshine and squeezing mini