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Holywell Dunes

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Tony Atkin via Geograph.org.uk

Holywell Bay is a National Trust beach on the north Cornwall coast near Newquay, a broad sweep of golden sand backed by a large system of dunes. Two rocks, the Gull Rocks, stand out in the bay offshore, with the headland of the Kelseys rising to one side. The dunes run back behind the beach, part of...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

8 day, 2 overnight

Lewinnick Lodge​, Fern Pit Café​, Sushea​

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

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Holywell Dunes?
Cornwall's spectacular northern coast contains this massive network of sand hills near a popular bay. Walkers usually encounter them right behind the main golden beach area.

What type of place is Holywell Dunes?
Holywell Dunes is a massive coastal sand dune system in northern Cornwall.

When is the best time to visit Holywell Dunes?
Autumn afternoons offer the most atmospheric conditions because the heavy summer crowds completely vanish. Low sunlight during this season also casts beautiful long shadows across the peaks.

What can you do at Holywell Dunes?
Climbing the massive sandy ridges provides an incredible workout and rewards you with fantastic sea views. People also love listening to the deep roar of the Atlantic waves crashing against the offshore rocks.

How long should I spend at Holywell Dunes?
Spending a couple of hours allows ample time to explore the deeper sandy hollows. A shorter stop might suffice if you only want a quick look before heading down to the shore.

Where do I park at Holywell Dunes?
A total of ten spaces exist nearby, providing eight day and two overnight options. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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

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

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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