Known near and far as the ‘Forgotten Corner’, the Rame Peninsula is an indescribably beautiful stretch of South Cornwall that remains wonderfully untouched – making it perfect for all those who want to escape to the wilds while still enjoying access to a good pub and plenty of sandy beaches.
Perched on the border between South East Cornwall and South Devon, the Rame Peninsula enjoys close proximity to plenty of beautiful beaches and coastal walks as well as some fascinating examples of local history – not to mention some fabulously named spots from Wiggle Cliff to Dandy Hole! You can even hop on a passenger ferry across the Plymouth Sound to the seaside city of Plymouth, where there are even more things to see and do.
From the ever-iconic Rame Head all the way up the South West Coast Path to the idyllic twin fishing villages of Cawsand and Kingsand, there are so many incredible places to discover in this perfectly unspoilt corner of Cornwall. Here’s our complete guide to the Rame Peninsula so you can make the most of your visit.
Find out more
About the Rame Peninsula
Beaches
Towns and villages
Things to do
Walks
Places to eat
How to get to the Rame Peninsula
About the Rame Peninsula
Bordered by not one, not two, but three bodies of water (rivers Lynher, Tamar and Plymouth Sound), the Rame Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Cornwall if you’re looking for quiet creek-side coves and hidden villages. The entire stretch of untamed coastline and picturesque farmland is a designated Area of Outstanding Beauty, which means that no matter which path you take or corner you turn, you’re sure to stumble across a breath-taking sight.
Sitting opposite the Devonshire city of Plymouth, the Rame Peninsula enjoys close access to hustle and bustle while maintaining a blissful air of peace and calm, thanks to its removed location. Home to some postcard-perfect beaches, idling villages, and some staggeringly beautiful country parks, you’ll never be far from a photo opportunity or a fun-filled family day out.
Landscape
Long sandy beaches, forgotten coves, and a patchwork of ancient fields all add up to a wonderfully rich natural tapestry around the Rame Peninsula.
The most famous natural landmark along the peninsula has to be Rame Head, which boasts reaching views along the coast in both directions. The headland’s natural advantage means it’s often the last thing sailors and fishermen see when leaving England and the first thing they see when returning home. A fact that’s been forever immortalised in the popular sea shanty ‘Spanish Ladies’.
Still bearing the slightest hint of an ancient Iron Age fort and the well-worn (yet impressively long-lasting) St Michael’s Chapel, which can be seen in most depictions of Rame Head, the steep steps to the top of Rame Head are well worth the climb whether you’re a fan of history or jaw-dropping views, or both!
During your climb, a quick glance to the right will reward you with views down the South West Coast Path towards Whitsand Bay, one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Cornwall. This stretch of the coast is popular with locals and visitors alike as the wild and rugged cliffs contrast beautifully with the miles of golden sand and pretty villages.
In-land, you can expect to find dappled woodlands and lush farmland as well as some fabulous country parks, providing ample routes for a hearty stomp or laid-back stroll. The sheltered valley behind Rame Head offers a secluded spot for the pretty villages of Cawsand and Kingsand, both of which benefit from beaches that call out for lazy days with an ice cream in hand.
Wildlife
Thanks to the quiet and mostly rural nature of the Rame Peninsula, you’ll find plenty of fauna to cross off your wildlife bingo. If you head to Rame Head, you’ll most likely find some Dartmoor ponies grazing along the cliffs and occasionally even a deer or two! Looking to the skies, keep an eye out for buzzards, which can often be seen hovering eagle-eyed (or should we say buzzard-eyed) over the fields.
If you prefer flora over fauna, a trip to Penlee Battery on the Rame Head Heritage Coast is definitely worthwhile as you’ll be able to see the distinctive and utterly transfixing bee orchid, which features a lower lip that’s almost identical to a queen bee in both colour and shape – a very clever pollinating tactic indeed (at least it would be if the right species of bee were found in the UK).
Beaches
Interlacing with the rugged cliffs you’ll find plenty of secret coves and long stretches of sand where you can while away a summer’s day or head out for a wintery stomp before piling into the local pub for a Sunday roast.
Whitsand Bay
Perhaps the best-known beach along the Rame Peninsula, Whitsand Bay boasts 4 miles of dog-friendly, sandy goodness thanks to the collection of coves that join forces at low tide, including the popular beach at Wiggle Cliff (we really do love that name). It’s not one for swimming due to strong rip currents in the area, but the long expanse of sand and surrounding coastal paths make it great for beachy stomps intermingled with a picnic. It’s also one of the only beaches in this part of Cornwall where surfers can ride the waves, so make sure to pack your board when staying nearby – lifeguards patrol between May and October at certain points along the bay.
Important note: When you see red flags above Tregantle Fort, access is prohibited due to military training.
Kingsand and Cawsand
As soon as you set eyes on these two idyllic beaches, you’ll understand why they made our list of prettiest places in Cornwall. Colourful houses line the sand and shingle beaches while rockpools emerge at low tide to offer curious eyes the chance to explore a whole new world.
Both beaches are very popular with locals and visitors alike and provide a lovely place for a sea swim or paddling adventure – of the boating and toes-in-water varieties. Cawsand has seasonal dog restrictions whereas Kingsand beach welcomes our four-legged friends 365 days a year.
Sandways Cellar
10 miles north of Kingsand beach lies the equally pretty Sandways Cellar. Golden sands, turquoise waters, and lots of shells for the little ones to collect, this little patch of Cornish heaven has much to offer with none of the crowds – absolute bliss! It is a bit of a trek down the cliff, but the huffs and puffs are worth it for the glittering sea and spacious shoreline.
Not sure what to pack for your UK beach holiday? Take a look at our handy dandy guide for some tips and tricks!
Towns and villages
From pretty fishing villages to the parish that shares its name with the peninsula, there are lots of villages to explore full of charm, character, and, of course, cafés!
Rame
Ok, while it might not technically be a town or a village (it’s a hamlet), how could we miss out Rame when talking about the Rame Peninsula! Getting its name from Rame Head, which either means ram’s head or ‘high protruding cliff’, this historic hamlet is home to a pretty, candlelit church (no electricity has its pros) that’s well worth a visit when exploring the nooks and crannies of this ancient place.
Antony
It may be small, but Antony has everything you need from a village. Head to The Carew Arms for a pint of Cornwall’s finest, or pop into Kerry’s Kerbside Kitchen for a mouth-watering takeaway brunch. Local attractions include the medieval parish church and the impressive Antony House, which is open to the public through the National Trust.
Kingsand
Although twinned with Cornish village Cawsand, Kingsand was actually a part of Devon until the boundary changed in 1844. Now, it’s home to a pretty beach perfect for bathing, two pubs, and a lovely bakery where you can pick up fresh pastries, a cracking breakfast, or a pizza on Monday nights.
Cawsand
Next door to Kingsand and the other half of this popular Cornish pair is the equally idyllic Cawsand. Matching its twin with brightly painted seaside cottages and narrow, winding streets that simply ooze character and charm, it’s easy to escape the rush of everyday life when you’re in Cawsand. If you can’t decide which village to visit, make your way over to the aptly named Halfway House, which sits happily between the two, so you never have to choose your favourite.
Portwrinkle
With a name that’s rivalled only by the village’s addition to Whitsand Bay, Finnygook beach, Portwrinkle is another Cornish village that harks back to a bygone era filled with honest fishermen and not so honest smugglers. Even today, Portwrinkle remains delightfully untouched by modern influences, with the exception of a steaming coffee from The Jolly Roger.
Millbrook
Perched on the head of a tidal creek that has been dammed since the 70s, Millbrook enjoys a peaceful atmosphere and scenic surrounds, with some brilliant wetlands that are ideal for birdwatching. For over 700 years, the people of Millbrook come together in May to celebrate the Black Prince Parade, which sees a procession wind its way through the streets before fireworks fill the sky in the evening.
Torpoint
Marking the northern end of the Rame Peninsula, Torpoint is often the first port of call when visiting from across the Tamar. Within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty while looking out over the sparkling lights of Plymouth, Torpoint enjoys a happy mix of vibrant life and undisturbed calm. Weave your way through the narrow streets of the historic town, discovering quaint shops and cosy pubs as you go or head down to the old marina, which comes to life in the summer when yachting season begins.
Seaton
At the mouth of the river Seaton and close by to the Rame Peninsula, you’ll find the welcoming village of Seaton. Lounge around on the sandy beach, go on a nature trek through Seaton Valley Country Park, or simply enjoy the local offerings, which include some lovely shops and a couple of fantastic pubs and cafés.
Things to do
From the historic beauty of Mount Edgcumbe (which still covers a large section of the Rame Peninsula) to a wonderfully weird day out with an alpaca, there’s no shortage of things to do on the Rame Peninsula.
Mount Edgcumbe
Covering over 860 acres of the Rame Peninsula, Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park is a big draw to this historic area. Formal gardens surround the Grade I listed house, which in turn are surrounded by ancient burrows and a spectacular deer park. Tour the house and gardens, set off on one of the five walks, or, if you’re looking for something really memorable, book yourself into the Alpaca Experience and learn all there is to know about these woolly wonders. Or, for those who are even more adventurous, archery, watersports, and survival skills beckon – you’ll walk in as you are, but you’ll leave as Bear Grylls!
Antony House
Steeped in history – and a style so sensational it appeared in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland – Antony House makes for a marvellous day trip full of 18th-century charm and a fascinating family history. Tour the house and marvel at the incredible gallery of portraits, tapestries, and period furniture before heading out into the beautifully curated gardens, which feature modern sculptures, a topiary, and an incredible collection of daylilies. Oh, and you can’t miss a visit to the recently reopened Colonnade Café where you can dine on glorious cream teas with lashings of jam and clotted cream.
Port Eliot House and Gardens
Port Eliot House and Gardens offers a mishmash of entertainment throughout the year from concerts to daily tours around the house and gardens. The Grade I listed house is full to overflowing with a fabulously unexpected style and no shortage of intriguing obscurities while the gardens offer a secluded oasis for peaceful strolls and extravagant picnics. In fact, if it’s a picnic you fancy – and who doesn’t love a picnic – a quick dart into Port Eliot’s treasure-trove shop will see your basket fully stocked with local delights from fresh bakes to artisan cheeses.
Adventure Bay Surf School
Are you ready to hit the waves? Adventure Bay’s lovely team are here to help you make the most of this exciting stretch of Cornish coast with a whole host of adrenaline-spiking activities. Learn how to surf the waves like a pro, conquer your core with some paddleboarding, or leap through the salty air with some coasteering – whichever water-based activity you choose, you’re in for an exhilarating time.
Walks
Lace-up the walking boots, it’s time to head out into the beautiful Cornish landscape to discover why we’re thrilled the Rame Peninsula is the forgotten corner of Cornwall.
Rame Head Circular
Naturally, we’re kicking things off with the iconic Rame Head circular walk, which takes you all the way around this bogglingly stunning headland via a 5.6-mile route. There are some steep bits around Rame Head, so sturdy shoes or boots are a must!
Starting things off in the ancient streets of Cawsand (where a pre-walk ice cream is always recommended), take the South West Coast Path through the woods up to Penlee Point where you can enjoy your first display of panoramic views, before following the path round to Rame Head. Here, you can visit the medieval chapel and, on a clear weather day, see all the way across Whitsand Bay or out to Eddystone lighthouse. From here, it’s a scenic walk past Wiggle Cliff before heading inland back to Cawsand, passing the fort as you go.
Mount Edgcumbe
This 4-mile walk takes you through some seriously arresting scenes, including views over Plymouth Sound and some lovely paths through the gardens of Mount Edgcumbe. You can park in the Maker Church car park, from which a path through the woods will lead you to Palmer Point. From here, amble along the coastal path to Cremyll before entering the impressive grounds of Mount Edgcumbe. As you make your way through the grounds (keeping an eye out for the acorn map markers as you go), you’ll come across the incredible Lady Emma’s Cottage, which lies nestled among the trees, surrounded by parkland and the waters of Plymouth Sound.
After you’ve marvelled at the cottage, it’s time to get those calves working as you climb the zigzag path up to Redding Point and Picklecombe Point, where you’ll find the intriguing Fort Picklecombe and Picklecombe seat (ok, we’ll stop saying Picklecombe, now). Following the path round to the right, head uphill to the head of Hooe Lake Valley and eventually the deer park, which offers plenty of opportunities to spot the local residents.
Cawsand to Whitsand Bay
At just over 5 miles, this challenging trek is fantastic for dogs, as not only do you pass one of Cornwall’s best dog-friendly beaches, you pass multiple dog-friendly cafés and pubs, including the welcoming Fort Inn Restaurant. The walk itself is an extension of the Rame Head circular, where instead of cutting back to Cawsand, you continue along the South West Coast Path until you reach Whitsand Bay. Along the way, you’ll pass the Polhawn Fort along with copious coves and sandy beaches that are just calling out for a snooze in the sand and a picnic.
Places to eat
After a day of rambling and sightseeing, what better way to regroup than at a welcoming Cornish pub or dog-friendly restaurant.
The Orangery
Situated within the Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, indulge in an afternoon tea, a laid-back lunch, or a button-popping Sunday roast before strolling around the perfectly manicured gardens. The little ones will love it too thanks to the great kids’ menu, which includes pancakes and crust off sandwiches.
The Canteen at Maker Heights
Wood-fired pizza, anyone? During the summer season, you can tuck into fantastic local pizza from Keveral Farm, or you can simply pop in for a coffee and a cake while enjoying the incredible views out over the fields and cliffs. Check out their social media to see what’s on the menu at this Cornish curb-side canteen.
The Salty Dog Café
This quirky little café in Milbrook is definitely in the running for best dog-friendly café in Cornwall as not only do they welcome dogs, but they cater for them with a dog-friendly ice cream that’s sure to get those tails wagging! Oh, and for the humans, there’s a menu full of mouth-watering breakfast and lunch options, from a full Cornish to good ol’ chips!
The Bay Bar & Restaurant
If you’re looking for a place to eat on the Rame Peninsula with a view, there’s just no beating The Bay. Overlooking Cawsand beach, each table in the restaurant and bar enjoys a waterside view so you can dine on your beer-battered haddock and chips in utter seaside bliss.
The Halfway House Inn
Situated in the heart of Kingsand and Cawsand – giving this lovely inn its name – The Halfway House is a short walk from the beach, giving you the perfect respite after a day frolicking in the sea. Round up the family (dog included) and head to The Halfway for a drink or two in the beer garden or a hearty sit-down feast made up of superb local seafood from mussels to crab to a whole sharing platter.
The Old Bakery
Serving artisan takeaway pizza every Monday night and breakfast on the weekends, there’s something for every fancy at the Old Bakery in Cawsand. Fill your bag up with freshly baked pastries before you head out on the cliffs or, in the off season, become a sourdough master with their one-day class.
The Fort Inn Restaurant
Ready for a locally-sourced feast with a side of history? The Fort Inn near Whitsand Bay forges great food alongside local history for an unforgettable experience. Browse through the fab menu full of burgers, light bites and oh-so-tempting desserts as you sit back and enjoy the immaculately restored historical architecture.
The Devonport Inn
Perched on the waterfront in Kingsand, The Devonport Inn offers a friendly, welcoming hideaway for dogs and their well-behaved owners – there are even doggie blankets and biscuits on the bar! Locally caught seafood and hand-baked pasties come together for a truly Cornish menu, while the bar is stocked with every tipple for every taste.
The Cross Keys
Oh, how we love a traditional Cornish inn! Slate floors, lots of wood and a host of local cask ales keep the locals and visitors coming back time and time again. The menu itself is jam-packed with all the pub grub classics from scampi and chips to burgers with all the trimmings.
Cliff Top Café
If, like us, you believe breakfast to be the most important (and best) meal of the day, then a trip to Cliff Top Café is a must. Breakfast sandwiches, baguettes and a plate piled high with all the classics – throw in stunning coastal views and you have a pretty perfect start to your day.
How to get to the Rame Peninsula
If you’re coming from Plymouth or the surrounding area, then why not make your visit extra special with a boat trip? You can either hop on the passenger ferry and start your journey off at Cremyll, or you can simply enjoy a day trip peppered with some fascinating facts about the area.
Excited to explore the forgotten corner of Cornwall? Take a look at our dreamy cottages on the Rame Peninsula and start planning your peaceful getaway.
