The Lizard Peninsula

Located at the southernmost end of the British Isle, in the county of Cornwall, the Lizard Peninsula is bordered on three sides by the sea, and the Helford River to the north. The name the Lizard is believed by some to come from the Cornish word “lezou” meaning headland. The National Trust owns a major proportion of the peninsula, and this helps in keeping it unspoilt and unchanged. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Lizard Peninsula has some of the most spectacular scenery in Cornwall.

There are many small coves, once used by smugglers to land their kegs of French Brandywine, and beaches to be found at the Lizard, and the southwest coastal path is very popular with walkers. When people come to the Lizard they are inspired by the scenery to paint, write, take photographs and paint. Many people go there just to escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives.

The Peninsula has a maritime past and many shipwrecks can be seen all along the coastline. From old barquentines and schooners, to steamships from the late twentieth century, even fishing vessels that capsized near the coastline, and old submarines rusting in the waves, are all just a part of the scenery.

The east coast is home to many wooded valleys, some fishing coves and hamlets. You will also find the community of Coverack, a popular destination for families with small children, and windsurfers alike. Coverack also attracts divers who go to explore, the numerous shipwrecks, found around The Lizard Peninsula’s coastline
Further inland is the village of St. Keverne, where you will find whitewashed cottages, a handful of shops, pubs and a beautiful church. In the St Keverne Church a shipwreck window can be found and in the churchyard, a memorial to the over one hundred lives lost in 1898, when the Mohegan was wrecked  there.
Going along the west coast, the port of Porthleven can be found. It is the southernmost port on the penninsula, and is a good base for exploring South West Cornwall. Its harbor is usually filled with fishing boats and yachts. The port is seen as a wonderful mix of village life and holiday center.

Another main village located along the west coast is the bustling inland village of Mullion. It is the largest settlement on the Lizard Peninsula. Many shops, cafes and restaurants, inns, craft shops and art galleries can be found in Mullion. A small harbour can also be found at Mullion Cove. The church of St. Mellanus, which dates back to the fifteenth century, is found in Mullion and is famous for its oak bench-ends with carvings depicting biblical scenes.

Tourism is the mainstay on the Peninsula and the atmosphere there is laid back. There are a number of activities to get involved in to pass the time from sailing, surfing or windsurfing, horse riding, golf to swimming in any of the beautiful beaches and coves. There are also a number of gardens to visit and there is the opportunity to be a part of a village barbecue. There is an abundance of charm and solitude to be found at Lizard Peninsula.