St Just, a charming village in Cornwall known as Britain’s most westerly settlement, attracts numerous visitors due to its unique features. The village boasts a pleasant climate, beautiful gardens, and a picturesque coastline lined with independent shops, offering a full day of exploration and entertainment.
Located near Land’s End and just eight miles from Penzance, St Just has a rich heritage as a former center of the tin mining industry. At the heart of the village is Plain-an-Gwarry, an ancient theater that once hosted performances in medieval times. Today, it is the venue for the Lafrowda Festival.
Visitors to St Just Church can explore stunning exotic gardens thriving in the gentle climate of the Roseland peninsula. Poet John Betjeman hailed the churchyard as one of the most beautiful in Britain, leading down to a charming creek.
Adjacent to Cape Cornwall, St Just is often mistaken by sailors for ‘Land’s End’, where the English Channel and St Georges Channel meet. Heinz Ltd acquired the cape in 1987 and later donated it to the National Trust to commemorate the company’s centenary.
Local residents affectionately refer to the coastal rocks near St Just as “General De Gaulle in the bath” due to their distinctive shape when viewed from the mainland. An annual swimming event covers the mile between the rocks and the cove, offering a chance to spot playful grey seals in the waters.
Exploring the South West Coast Path reveals hidden beaches, some of which featured in the popular BBC series Poldark, showcasing the region’s smuggling history. Notable locations include Botallack, Levant, and Geevor, where visitors can take tours of the filming sites.
Visitors often praise the Botallack mine for its breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the remains of the Crowns, historic engine houses perched on the cliffs. The site also features the Botallack Counthouse café, offering homemade pastries and games for children, making it a delightful destination in any weather.
Overall, St Just in Cornwall offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and memorable trip.
