St Anchorite's Rock

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Devon South Hams

England

St Anchorite's Rock

South West Coast Path on Beacon Hill Credit: Hugh Venables

St Anchorite's Rock is a prominent coastal feature located in Devon, England. Situated on the southern coast, it is a headland that juts out into the English Channel, forming a stunning point that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and coastline.

The rock gets its name from the ancient legend of a reclusive hermit who supposedly sought solitude and spiritual enlightenment on this very spot. It is said that the hermit, known as St. Anchorite, lived in a small cave carved into the rock face, hence the name.

The headland is composed of rugged cliffs made of sedimentary rock, primarily limestone and sandstone. These cliffs provide a natural habitat for a variety of seabirds, including gulls, cormorants, and puffins. The surrounding waters are also home to a diverse range of marine life, making it an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

St Anchorite's Rock is a popular destination for hiking and coastal walks, with several trails leading to and around the headland. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sea, dramatic cliffs, and occasionally catch a glimpse of passing ships or even dolphins and seals.

The rock is also of historical significance, with evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. Archaeological discoveries have revealed ancient tools and artifacts, suggesting that the area was inhabited by early settlers. Today, it serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and natural beauty that Devon has to offer.

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St Anchorite's Rock Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.308365/-3.9799168 or Grid Reference SX5947. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

South West Coast Path on Beacon Hill

Hugh Venables

South West Coast Path down Beacon Hill

Hugh Venables

Path to Wadham Beach

Hugh Venables

Tree planting at bottom of Beacon Hill

Hugh Venables

Gabions by South West Coast Path

Hugh Venables

Carswell Cove

Hugh Venables

South West Coast Path

Hugh Venables

Scrub below St Anchorite's Rock

Hugh Venables

Butcher's Cove

Hugh Venables

Keaton Cove

Hugh Venables

South Devon coastline

From Erme Mouth to Stoke Point (left), seen from above Fernycombe Point. The foreground field, and Stoke Point itself, are owned by the National Trust.

Derek Harper

St Anchorites Rock

On the coastal footpath this feature dominates for miles to the east or west, disappoints close to.

Robin Mealing

Poole Farm - South Devon

These hay bags scattered around the fields look more like something out of the cult TV series - "The Prisoner".

Richard Knights

Newton Stream

The stream rises only 1300 metres from tidal water but runs parallel to the coast (to the left here) for over 5 km to form Newton Creek. View across the valley from near the bridleway between Henna Mill and Borough Farm.

Derek Harper

Henna Mill

The bridleway from Borough Farm emerges onto a lane here. The name is probably more to do with domestic fowl than dyes. The building is some 50 metres from the Newton Stream, but doubtless there was a leat.

Derek Harper

Where five lanes meet

Unable to trace a name for this lane junction near Henna Mill. The lane to the right of the gate goes towards Yealmpton, and sharp right for Ermington. A few yards along, both cross the Newton Stream.

Derek Harper

Hillside

The chalet bungalow stands on the edge of the valley of a tributary of the Newton Stream, above a steep hillside of bracken and gorse. Seen from the lane from Henna Mill to Creacombe.

Derek Harper