Crackington
haven is a small sheltered beach that slopes away gently to the sea.
This amazing looking
little bay is sheltered from the north by the cliffs of Pencannow and by the
headland of Cambeak to the south. Originally a small port that imported coal and
limestone and exported slate, this small haven is now a popular beach with
locals and visitors alike. It is a good beach for swimming or surfing and the
views to be had from the cliffs that climb sharply away from the haven, are
breathtaking. For those of you who do not want to hit the beach, fear not
because there are some stunning views to absorb with a little help from shank’s
pony (Your Feet). The Path to the left of the the haven can be found by the life
guards hut.
This path wends its
way south towards the highest cliff in England passing some very interesting
little coves along the way. Yes! and it is imaginatively called High Cliff
because High Cliff is over 735 ft above the rolling Atlantic ocean and the views
back towards Crackington and beyond or south towards Boscastle are to be
experienced in the flesh. Crackington Haven, lies in the parish of St. Gennys.
The parish is extremely picturesque with its high hills and deep, wooded
valleys.
St Genny’s church
can be found in the Rosecare hamlet to the north
of Crackington by following the coast path up to Pencannow Point, not as high as
High Cliff but still over 400ft above sea level and with stunning views over
Millook and Widemouth bay. Again the views either way are
absolutely breathtaking. On a clear day the Island of Lundy can be seen, although this is not
considered a good omen locally has it usually means rain is on the way.
St Genny’s church is dedicated to St Genesius who carried
is head with him after he had been
decapitated and the churchyard is also the last resting place of many
shipwrecked mariners and smugglers too.
It was in this area that Thomas Hardy
started is romance with Emma, whom he later married. This neck of the woods
inspired is 3rd novel" A pair of Eyes".
Crackington Haven has a couple of beach shops,
a spattering of houses that do not detract much from the place, a hotel
and public house with an excellent restaurant and lovely views out over the
beach and the ocean.. Upper Crackington and Crackington Haven can be found by heading
from Bude, through Poundstock to Wainhouse Corner on the A39. At Wainhouse
Corner there is a Petrol Station and The Wainhouse Pub, a Post Office and small
shop and a few houses. Just follow the signposted road to the sea from here.
Crackington and Crackington Haven can also be found by heading from Camelford to
Wainhouse Corner on the A39 and again just follow the signposted road to the sea
from here. If you are heading from Boscastle along the B32639. I recommend that
you look for the sign post to High cliff on the left and take this route into
Crackington Haven. The views along this stretch of coast are jaw dropping. You
will pass by The Strangles beach and little strand, stop here if you have the
time has these beaches have a quality that transports you to another world of
wreckers and smugglers.
There is ample car parking and public
conveniences at Crackington Haven and a life guard is present throughout the
season.
Crackington Haven, North Cornwall
Please take care along
our shore, and you will leave here wanting more.
But if the
warnings you ignore, then you may get more than you bargained for.
Stay Safe Play Safe
The Coombe Barton Inn is a beautiful Cornish seaside
pub with excellent home cooked food, real ales and fabulous accommodation.
Situated in the picturesque hamlet of Crackington Haven over looking the beach
makes this the ideal watering hole for hikers walking the coastal path, families
enjoying the beach or visitors taking a relaxing break away from the hustle and
bustle. You can always be assured of a warm and friendly Cornish welcome at the
Coombe Barton Inn from Landlords Carl and Helen and relax with good food and
Cornish keg real ales. We have a wonderful traditional Menu, sourcing the local,
freshest ingredients from meat and fish to vegetables. Dine in our bar area or
restaurant with superb views across the bay or in the glorious Summer months
outside on our raised decking over looking the beach which will take your breath
away. We can also cater for weddings, private parties, corporate events or any
special occasion in our separate Function Room. Please enquire for details.
After a busy day walking or even relaxing on the beach what better place to stay
the night than in one of our 5 comfortable and tastefully decorated bedrooms.
The Coombe Barton Inn makes an ideal base for exploring
Cornwall’s historical and traditional places of interest and beauty such as the
award winning Eden Project, Tintagel of King Arthur fame, Dartmoor, Land’s End,
Plymouth Hoe and the Barbican. All are easily accessible in a day’s outing.
