Beautiful Cornwall beach shut off to visitors amid safety concerns

A beach in Cornwall that once appeared in Poldark and was listed among the world’s best has now been closed for safety reasons by the National Trust.

The National Trust has sealed off the route with ropes and put up warning signs that read “danger, no access”.

The organisation admitted it knows many visitors will be disappointed, but stressed that the decision “was not taken lightly”.

It explained that the closure followed talks with council officials and emergency services, and that it will only be temporary while possible long-term solutions are reviewed.

The picture-perfect Pedn Vounder beach, near Cornwall’s far west coast, is currently off limits after the steep cliff path leading down to it was badly eroded.

Pedn Vounder, close to Porthcurno on the Penwith Peninsula, is only accessible for a few hours each day because of the tides. Despite this, it has still earned a place on a list of the top 50 beaches in the world.

A National Trust spokesperson told CornwallLive: “Due to increasing coastal erosion, an unofficial and steep path across National Trust land leading to Pedn Vounder beach has become unsafe and is now closed.

This was decided after advice from local authorities and emergency services, as the risk of serious injury has grown significantly.”

The beach lies beneath the dramatic cliffs of Treryn Dinas, next to Porthcurno Cove, and is known for its “crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand”, often compared to beaches in Bali.

It is also considered “naturist friendly” and famously appeared in the TV drama Poldark as Nampara Cove during a dream sequence.

Located near the small village of Porthcurno, the National Trust added: “We understand this closure may disappoint, but with the cliff now dangerously eroded we had to act.

We encourage visitors to instead enjoy nearby Porthcurno beach and follow all safety signs and advice in the area.”

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