Stepper Point

Stepper Point is a rugged headland on Cornwall’s Atlantic coast where the River Camel meets the sea. It stands between Pentire Point to the north-east and Gunver Head a mile to the south-west, with cliffs and rocky foreshores on its south-western side. The land rises to 242 feet at its highest point and is mainly used for farming, though old stone quarries scar its slopes. The headland divides the estuary’s calm waters from the open ocean, creating a sharp contrast in scenery. Tregirls beach and St George’s Cove lie on the estuary side, while the coast path leads walkers past both. The headland is worth the journey for its mix of natural and human history. It was named a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1990 for its important geological layers, including thick Harbour Cove Slates and an igneous intrusion called Gulland. A 40-foot stone Daymark built in 1830 still guides ships from over 30 miles offshore. The South West Coast Path follows the headland for three miles from Padstow, offering easy walking to the Daymark and a volunteer-run National Coastwatch lookout. Boat tours from Padstow also pass the point, showing off its cliffs and coves. Visitors find a windswept landscape of cliffs, rocky shores and wide estuary views. The coast path passes the Daymark tower and the Coastwatch station, where volunteers keep watch daily. Tregirls beach’s sandhills lie just east of the point, while Harbour Cove and Hawker’s Cove sit at the estuary mouth. Remains of old quarries and mines mark the headland’s industrial past, including a small lead mine and a copper mine that once produced silver. The contrast between the sheltered estuary and the wild Atlantic makes Stepper Point a striking place to walk and explore.