Black Rock

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Cornwall

England

Black Rock

Field with prehistoric cairn and field system To the east of Barnaby Lane, which runs just over the wall on the right.

Scheduled Monument List Entry Number:1015002 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1015002?section=official-list-entry" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1015002?section=official-list-entry">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — Field with prehistoric cairn and field system Credit: David Lally

Black Rock is a prominent coastal feature located in Cornwall, England. Situated on the southwestern tip of the county, it is known for its picturesque headland and rocky point jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. The headland is formed by a cluster of jagged black rocks, which lend the feature its name.

Black Rock offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, with its towering cliffs and crashing waves. Its strategic location provides an ideal vantage point for observing the rugged beauty of the Cornwall coast. The headland is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as it attracts a variety of seabirds, including gulls, cormorants, and puffins.

Access to Black Rock is relatively easy, with a well-maintained coastal path leading visitors to the site. However, caution is advised, as the rocks can be slippery and treacherous, especially during high tides or inclement weather. The point itself is not accessible to the public, as it is surrounded by steep cliffs and dangerous currents.

Black Rock is also steeped in local folklore and history. Legend has it that smugglers used the area to hide their loot, taking advantage of the rugged terrain and secluded caves. In fact, remnants of old smuggling routes can still be seen in the vicinity.

Overall, Black Rock is a captivating coastal feature that offers both natural beauty and historical intrigue. Its dramatic cliffs, wildlife, and tales of smugglers make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Black Rock Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 49.889164/-6.3682861 or Grid Reference SV8607. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Field with prehistoric cairn and field system

To the east of Barnaby Lane, which runs just over the wall on the right. Scheduled Monument List Entry Number:1015002 Link

David Lally

Table laid-out for the St Agnes Coronation Street Party

The “street” in this case is Old Lane. No traffic order is required to close the road here! The Island Hall on the left had tables groaning under the weight of many cakes and other treats.

David Lally

Remains of a 19th century gig-shed

On the north east edge of Per Askin. Of all the islands St Agnes as it is the most south westerly was in the best-placed to spot incoming vessels and launch a pilot-gig . Per Askin at the south west of the island would further increase the chance of getting a pilot aboard first. St Agnes pilots (typically named Hicks) would then guide the ships as far as Bristol or the south coast ports. A major source of income for the Island throughout the 19th century. A Scheduled Monument List Entry Number:1009280 Link

David Lally

A stile to Browarth

A tad more conventional than 15 years ago SV8708 : Crate Based Stile.

David Lally

Two post-medieval quays

These quays are believed to have been built to land coal for the St Agnes lighthouse. For more details see the details on their Historic England listing: List Entry Number:1016512. Link

The named quay “Uncle Tom’s Quay” is the more eroded of the two but can still be discerned to the right of the picture surmounted by a herring gull.

David Lally

Refloating Elvera

This small launch is probably about 90 years old now. It's spent the winter in a nearby field undergoing "months of work" according to its owner (on the right of the picture standing on the slipway.) I expressed surprise that they had towed it down at such a low tide "You are going to let the tide float her?" "Yes, she's full of leaks".

David Lally

The St Agnes Lighthouse and attached house

From Old lane. The lighthouse is both a Grade II* listed building List Entry Number:1328835 Link

and a Scheduled Monument List Entry Number:1014999 Link

The house is Grade II List Entry Number:1218288 Link

David Lally

Refloating Elvera

Taken a few minutes before SV8708 : Refloating Elvera. This shows a family group bringing an heirloom back into use. 60 years ago this little launch would take my family (weather permitting) to Catholic Mass on St Mary's when holidaying on St Agnes . It would be sailed by the father of the man on driving the tractor and grandfather of the two men at the stern of the boat.

David Lally