Vault Beach

Vault Beach lies on Cornwall’s south coast near Gorran Haven, facing the English Channel between Cadythew Rocks and Dodman Point. The beach is mostly shingle with some sand appearing at low tide. It sits southeast of Gorran Haven, a small fishing village with a sheltered harbour. The shingle stretches for about half a kilometre along the shore. Dodman Point, a prominent headland, marks the southern end of the beach. The beach’s name comes from shipwrecks that once washed up here. In the days of sail, ships often mistook the Dodman for Land’s End, leading to fatal errors. The headland’s misleading appearance caused many vessels to founder nearby. Bodies from these wrecks usually came ashore on this stretch of beach. The southern end still attracts naturists today. Visitors find a quiet, pebbly cove with views across the Channel. The shingle is firm underfoot, making it easy to walk. Gorran Haven’s car parks serve as starting points for the short walk to the beach. The village offers toilet facilities and a small harbour where fishing boats still land their catch. The beach remains peaceful, with only the sound of waves breaking on the stones.