Carrick Du

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Cornwall

England

Carrick Du

Penwith : Boat & Sea A boat is heading back to St Ives Harbour. — Penwith : Boat & Sea Credit: Lewis Clarke

Carrick Du is a prominent coastal feature located in Cornwall, England. It is a headland that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean, forming a distinctive point along the rugged coastline. Situated near the town of Penzance, Carrick Du offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

The headland is characterized by its towering cliffs, which rise dramatically from the sea, creating a stunning backdrop against the crashing waves. These cliffs are composed of granite, adding to the area's natural beauty. The rugged terrain and wild landscape make Carrick Du an ideal spot for birdwatching, with various species of seabirds often seen nesting and soaring above the cliffs.

Carrick Du is also known for its historic significance. At the summit of the headland, the remnants of an ancient Iron Age fort can be found. This archaeological site provides a glimpse into the region's past, offering visitors a chance to explore and learn about the area's rich history.

Access to Carrick Du is relatively easy, with a well-maintained path leading to the headland. However, caution is advised, as the cliffs can be steep and unstable in places. It is recommended to wear appropriate footwear and stay within designated areas for safety.

Overall, Carrick Du is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the rugged beauty of Cornwall's coastline. With its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, it is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region.

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Carrick Du Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.216854/-5.4883375 or Grid Reference SW5141. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Penwith : Boat & Sea

A boat is heading back to St Ives Harbour.

Lewis Clarke

Penwith : Cornish Coastline

Looking towards the coastline of Cornwall.

Lewis Clarke

Towards Trowan

An inland path heads west from St Ives, linking many fields and interspersed with small farms. This is the first, Trowan, adjacent to a field of coarse grass.

Graham Horn

Towards Pen Enys Point

The point is in SW4941. We are on the coastal path in this square, with steep bracken-covered slopes to the north leading down to the rocky coastline of Zawn Quoit.

Graham Horn

Along Trowan Cliff

The coastal path threads its way, high above the coast, along a thin path through the bracken and gorse. Ahead is the climb towards Hellesveor.

Graham Horn

Trowan

A farmstead that seems to be converted into a settlement of several dwellings.

Robin Webster

Coastal footpath, Trowan Cliff

The blue on the slope is bluebells.

Robin Webster

Hor Point

Viewed from one of the several alternative paths to the official SW Coastal Path.

Robin Webster

Cornwall : Hor Point

Just about a mile along the north Cornish coast from St Ives lies the rugged Hor Point. In World War Two this location was chosen to site a Chain Home Low radar station M115.

Lewis Clarke

Coastal path, Hellesveor Cliff

There is also another path lower down the slope.

Robin Webster

Outcrop on Hellesveor Cliff

One would have thought this would have a name, but nobody told the mapmakers if it has got one.

Robin Webster

Rocks on Hellesveor Cliff

According to the geological map, the lighter near rocks are likely to be 'Unnamed Igneous Intrusion, Devonian - Metagabbro and metamicrogabbro'. The darker rock, which is more general here, is the Mylor Slate formation.

Robin Webster