St Just is a town defined by its isolation and its industry. Situated on the very edge of the Atlantic, it was the heart of the tin mining boom, and the landscape here is unlike anywhere else in Cornwall. It is a place of ancient stone circles, deep valleys that feel prehistoric, and engine houses clinging to cliffs that defy gravity.
From watching the sunset at the only cape in England to exploring a medieval amphitheatre still used today, here is our curated guide to the best activities in St Just.
Our Top Picks
These three experiences capture the raw beauty and history of the area.
1. Cape Cornwall
Often overshadowed by Land’s End, Cape Cornwall is the connoisseur’s choice. It is the only “Cape” in England, a point where two oceans meet.
- The Walk: Hike up to the Heinz Monument (an old mine chimney) at the summit. The views stretch to the Isles of Scilly on a clear day.
- Priest’s Cove: Just below the cape is a tiny, rocky cove with a slipway. It is a favourite spot for locals to swim at high tide, though it is wild and has no lifeguard.
2. Botallack Mine
A short walk along the coast path brings you to Botallack, arguably the most photographed mine site in the world and a key filming location for Poldark.
- The Crowns: The sight of the two engine houses clinging to the jagged rocks at the bottom of the cliffs is breathtaking. They were built to pump water from tunnels that extended far out under the ocean bed.
- The Count House: The old mine office is now a National Trust information hub where you can learn about the “submarine miners” who worked here.
3. Cot Valley & Porth Nanven
Just south of the town lies the Cot Valley, a lush, sub-tropical valley that ends at the sea.
- Dinosaur Eggs: The beach at the end, Porth Nanven, is famous for its “dinosaur egg” boulders—huge, smooth, round stones shaped by the Atlantic. It is a geological marvel and a legally protected site (so look, but don’t take!).
- The Wildlife: The valley is a haven for rare migratory birds, making it a hotspot for twitchers, especially in autumn.
Art & Culture
- The Jackson Foundation: St Just is an artistic hub, and the Jackson Foundation is its crown jewel. This massive, eco-friendly gallery space showcases the work of leading contemporary artist Kurt Jackson, whose paintings are deeply rooted in the Cornish landscape.
- The Plen-an-Gwary: In the centre of town lies the “Plen”, a medieval amphitheatre (one of only two surviving in Cornwall). It was built for performing religious plays in the Cornish language and is still used for festivals and community events today.
Parking Tips
- Lafrowda Car Park: The main car park in St Just (TR19 7HZ) is free, which is a rarity in Cornwall. It is the best place to start if you are visiting the town centre or the gallery.
- Cape Cornwall: The National Trust car park at the Cape (TR19 7NN) is small and requires payment (free for members).
- Botallack: There is a dedicated parking area at the Count House (TR19 7QQ) for exploring the mines.
Guides
The best places to park in St Just
The best things to do in St Just
The best places to stay in St Just
