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Gravel Hill Mine

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Walking, Photography

Year round

Photo: Philip Halling via Geograph.org.uk

Salty Atlantic waves crash against the towering cliffs at the northern end of Perranporth beach, hiding the fascinating industrial remnants of the historic Gravel Hill Mine. Long before vacationers flocked to these expansive golden sands for leisure, Cornish miners tunneled deep into the solid rock...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

7 day, 3 overnight

Lewinnick Lodge​, Fern Pit Café​, Sushea​

The Annexe at Tenniside, Blue Room Hostel, Tolcarne Beach Cabins

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Gravel Hill Mine?
Cornwall's rugged northern coast hosts these old mining remains at the far edge of Perranporth beach. Walkers usually find the spot by checking the headlands during a coastal hike.

What type of place is Gravel Hill Mine?
Gravel Hill Mine is an abandoned iron mine site on the cliffs of North Cornwall.

When is the best time to visit Gravel Hill Mine?
Spring through to winter offers great conditions because the site remains accessible all year round. Low spring tides provide the safest window to view the exposed mineral veins before the sea returns.

What can you do at Gravel Hill Mine?
People regularly enjoy walking along the sandy dunes to spot the old earthworks and capped shafts. Photography enthusiasts capture wonderful shots of Dead Man's Pool and the holes cut into the sheer cliff face.

How long should I spend at Gravel Hill Mine?
Allocating roughly forty-five minutes gives you plenty of time to explore the coastal paths and see the gated drainage adits. A longer stay suits anyone wanting to combine the history with a full beach day.

Where do I park at Gravel Hill Mine?
Vehicles can use the ten available spaces nearby, which include seven day and three overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Gravel Hill Mine?
Lewinnick Lodge, Fern Pit Café, and Sushea offer three places to get a meal in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Gravel Hill Mine?
The Annexe at Tenniside, Blue Room Hostel, and Tolcarne Beach Cabins provide three choices for staying overnight nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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