Cornwall isn’t just a great place to visit during the summer months. As the leaves drop, the winds whip up and the air chills, the winter storms start to arrive. Along the Cornish coastline this often means hammering waves breaking beneath gun metal skies – a sight that has attracted ‘storm chasers’ since St Jude’s Storm in October 2013.
There’s nothing more exciting than watching a storm unfold from a safe distance, wrapped up warm and dry against the elements. Cart Shed Cottage sits close to the south coast, but an easy drive to the north coast where most of the action takes place.
Here are just a few of our favourite storm watching spots in Cornwall:
Porthleven
The clock tower which sits above the entrance to Porthleven harbour has become an iconic image, photographed many times over the years. Waves crashing up against it regularly feature on tv news reports during the winter – but remember to steer well clear when big seas roll in.
Sennen Cove
A popular spot for surfers throughout the year, the waves crashing at Sennen can be seriously big. With miles of open ocean between this part of the coast and the other side of the Atlantic, under the right conditions the sea quite literally explodes against the granite cliffs.
Penzance Promenade
Some of the most spectacular Cornish storms can be witnessed from the promenade in Penzance. The sea crashes against the wall below, often overflowing onto the promenade itself. The waves can become very lively and dangerous during powerful storms here and storm enthusiasts are advised to keep their distance.
Lizard Point
The Lizard witnesses the full force of big winter storms, due to its position as the most southerly point of the UK mainland. Dubbed the ‘Graveyard of Ships’, many have fallen victim to its cliffs – particularly during a storm. These days park in the National Trust car park for a great lookout, bring a flask of hot chocolate and enjoy.
Bedruthan Steps
A stunning stretch of coastline to visit whatever the weather, but particularly with a storm raging. This part of the coast is broken up by rocky outcrops, which take the full force of the waves. With a fenced cliff-top viewing area away from the raging seas below, storms can be witnessed from a distance – but be very aware of high winds and cliff edges!