The best places in Cornwall to watch the solar eclipse

Cornwall is about to land one of the best views in the country of a rare sight in the sky. On Wednesday evening a partial solar eclipse will sweep across the UK, and the far west is lined up for the clearest look, helped along by the county’s later sunsets. It begins at around 6.18pm on Wednesday 12 August, which leaves time after work to reach a headland, a clifftop or a moor top and settle in. It also makes a fine reason for a late-summer day out.

Away Resorts, the static caravan sales firm with a park at St Ives Bay, has picked out five of the best spots across the county to see it, from a headland the crowds tend to miss to the highest point in Cornwall.

Pentire Point West, near Polzeath

Best hidden gem. With thousands of people across the county keen to catch the eclipse, Pentire Point West is the place to dodge the crowds. On the north coast near Polzeath, it is an elevated headland with an uninterrupted view out across the Atlantic. Parking sits nearby at the Pentireglaze Haven and Pentire Farm areas, followed by a coastal walk to reach the viewpoint. It suits families with older children and walkers, and with only a few benches around, it is worth bringing camping chairs or blankets if you plan to wait for sunset.

Godrevy Point, near Hayle

Best for families. Further down the coast, Godrevy Point near Hayle looks out across St Ives Bay with a clear line towards the setting sun. The wide grassy headland and nearby facilities make it an easy choice for families, with plenty of room and toilets close by. Godrevy Lighthouse is a bonus too, giving eclipse photographs a striking backdrop. Park at Godrevy Beach car park, with a short walk to the main viewpoints.

Land’s End

Best accessible viewpoint. Land’s End serves up one of the county’s most famous coastal views, and the headland gives an unobstructed spot to take in the eclipse. The main visitor area is easy to reach, which makes it one of the more suitable eclipse-watching locations for anyone with limited mobility. Accessible parking sits close to the main entrance, along with accessible toilets and wheelchair-friendly routes through the site.

Brown Willy, Bodmin Moor

Best inland alternative. The coast holds the finest views, but higher ground inland promises something just as thrilling. At 420 metres, Brown Willy is the highest point in Cornwall, with panoramic views across Bodmin Moor and a quieter, more remote feel. There are no formal benches or seating at the summit, so bring your own outdoor seating if you need it. Parking is available at the Bodmin Moor car parks nearby.

Lizard Point

Best in south Cornwall. For anyone on the south coast, Lizard Point is a strong choice. As the UK’s most southerly point, it offers dramatic coastal scenery and elevated views towards the western horizon. Benches and seating dot the Lizard Point visitor area, though the quieter viewpoints along the coast may mean bringing your own. Parking is at Lizard Point, with a short walk to the main viewpoints and toilets nearby.

Kate Watts, spokesperson for Away Resorts, said: “With over a year since the last partial solar eclipse in the UK, we’re excited to share in the historic occasion with locals and visitors to the county. Cornwall’s sweeping views of the Atlantic and stunning cliff scenery make it the perfect destination to see the eclipse, and make lifelong memories with our loved ones. Be sure to bring suitable eye protection, so you can enjoy the eclipse safely.”

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