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Old Serpentine Works

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs, Valley

Walking, Photography

Summer

Photo: Colin Vosper via Geograph.org.uk

The Old Serpentine Works are the ruins of a Victorian stone factory at Carleon Cove, at the foot of the wooded Poltesco valley on the eastern side of the Lizard peninsula in Cornwall, cared for by the National Trust. Serpentine is a dark green and red veined rock found on the Lizard, and the works p...

10

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 6 overnight

Jumunjy Thai Restaurant & Bar​

The Riverside Cabin, Haelarcher Helicopter Glamping, Pol Glas Cabin

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Old Serpentine Works?
Cornwall's dramatic coast conceals these industrial ruins down on the Lizard Peninsula. Hikers usually walk down into the wooded valley from the coastal path to discover the old masonry.

What type of place is Old Serpentine Works?
Old Serpentine Works is a historic factory site on the coast of Cornwall.

When is the best time to visit Old Serpentine Works?
Summer months provide the finest weather for exploring the adjacent rocky coves. Bright spring mornings also offer brilliant natural light for photographing the old stone structures.

What can you do at Old Serpentine Works?
Walking through the quiet yard allows people to track the smooth surfaces of discarded rock fragments. Visitors can also spot the old iron wheel pit and explore the nearby shingle beach.

How long should I spend at Old Serpentine Works?
Allocating roughly an hour provides ample time to explore the old warehouse footprint. Anyone looking to tackle the wider coastal trail will want to budget a full afternoon.

Where do I park at Old Serpentine Works?
Spaces for ten vehicles exist close to the site, offering four day and six overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Old Serpentine Works?
Jumunjy Thai Restaurant & Bar provides one dining option in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Old Serpentine Works?
The Riverside Cabin, Haelarcher Helicopter Glamping, and Pol Glas Cabin offer three choices for accommodation nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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