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Trewavas Mine

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs, Farmland

Walking, Swimming, Photography, Wildlife Watching

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Chris Allen via Geograph.org.uk

Wheal Trewavas is a set of ruined mine engine houses perched on the cliff edge near Rinsey Head, between Rinsey and Praa Sands on Cornwall's south coast. Two tall stone engine houses still stand right at the top of the cliffs, their workings once running out under the seabed. It was chiefly a copper...

10

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

3

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

3 day, 7 overnight

The Square at Porthleven​, The Big Green Shed​, The Cabin Beach Café​

Glamping Dome Elysian Fields, Porthleven Glamping, Yurt in the Woods

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Trewavas Mine?
Cornwall's south coast hosts these historic engine houses along the cliffs west of Porthleven. Hikers usually encounter the ruins while exploring the coastal footpath around Mount's Bay.

What type of place is Trewavas Mine?
Trewavas Mine is a ruined nineteenth-century copper mine on the cliffs of south Cornwall.

When is the best time to visit Trewavas Mine?
Spring through to autumn offers ideal weather for navigating the exposed cliff pathways safely. Calm afternoons during these seasons ensure you avoid dangerous winter gales on the edge.

What can you do at Trewavas Mine?
Walking along the dramatic coastal path allows you to view the extraordinary granite architecture. People also enjoy photographing the old engine houses and looking out across the Atlantic Ocean.

How long should I spend at Trewavas Mine?
Allocating roughly an hour provides plenty of time to explore the old spoil heaps and appreciate the wild scenery. A longer visit suits anyone combining the trip with a proper coastal hike.

Where do I park at Trewavas Mine?
Spaces for ten vehicles exist nearby, providing three day and seven overnight parking spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Trewavas Mine?
The Square at Porthleven, The Big Green Shed, and The Cabin Beach Café provide three spots to grab a meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Trewavas Mine?
Glamping Dome Elysian Fields, Porthleven Glamping, and Yurt in the Woods offer three choices for an overnight stay in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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