St Keverne is a village with a story to tell. Famous for being the starting point of the Cornish Rebellion in 1497, it is a place steeped in history and surrounded by some of the most dramatic coastlines in the UK. Whether you want to dive into maritime history or simply dive into a bowl of organic ice cream, this village has you covered.
Here is our curated guide to the best things to do in and around St Keverne.
Farm Fun
Roskilly’s Farm
You cannot visit St Keverne without a trip to Roskilly’s. This working organic farm is famous for its ice cream, but it offers a full day out for families. You can wander freely through the meadows, meet the animals, and see exactly where your food comes from.
- The Experience: Take a walk around the ponds, feed the ducks, and make sure to be at the milking parlour in the afternoon to watch the Jersey cows being milked. It is an authentic slice of Cornish rural life.
- The Highlight: The ice cream parlour, of course. With over 30 flavours made on-site, the hardest part is choosing just one.
- Website: Roskilly’s Farm
History & Shipwrecks
St Keverne Church & The Square
The village square is dominated by the statue of Michael An Gof, the blacksmith who led the Cornish Rebellion, but the churchyard holds a more somber history. St Keverne overlooks the notorious Manacles reef, and the church is the final resting place for hundreds of shipwreck victims.
- The Experience: Visit the church to see the touching memorials to the passengers of the SS Mohegan, which sank in 1898. In the square, look for the recovered cannon that serves as a reminder of the coast’s danger.
- The Highlight: The illuminated spire. It was once used as a navigational aid for sailors to avoid the rocks, a beacon of safety for centuries.
- Website: St Keverne Church
Hidden Beaches
Porthallow Beach
Just a short drive down the hill, Porthallow is a quintessential pebble beach that marks the halfway point of the South West Coast Path. It is a quiet, sheltered spot that feels miles away from the busy tourist towns.
- The Experience: It is perfect for stone skimming and rock pooling. Look out for the “Five Pilchards” pub sign and the marker stone that celebrates the coast path walkers.
- The Highlight: The sense of seclusion. Even in the height of summer, it remains a peaceful spot to watch the fishing boats.
- Website: Porthallow Beach Guide
Porthoustock Beach
Known locally as “Proustock,” this east-facing beach is backed by an old quarry, giving it a unique, rugged industrial backdrop. It is a favourite launch spot for divers heading out to explore the Manacles reef.
- The Experience: It is a flat, coarse sand beach that is great for kayaking. The water here is often crystal clear, making it a good spot for snorkeling if you are brave enough to handle the cold.
- The Highlight: Watching the dive boats head out to the reef, which is considered one of the best diving sites in the UK.
Worked up an appetite?
After a day on the farm or the beach, you will need a hearty meal. View our guide to the best places to eat in St Keverne.