St Just, a village in Cornwall known as the westernmost settlement in Britain, attracts numerous visitors with its unique appeal. This picturesque spot, nestled near Land’s End and just eight miles from Penzance, offers a blend of temperate weather, lush gardens, and a scenic coastline dotted with boutique shops.
Rich in history, St Just was once a hub for tin mining and is home to Plain-an-Gwarry, an ancient theater that hosted performances in medieval times. Today, the village hosts the Lafrowda Festival at this historic site.
Visitors to St Just can explore the exotic gardens within the grounds of St Just Church, which have flourished in the area’s mild climate. The village also neighbors Cape Cornwall, often mistaken for ‘Land’s End’, where the English Channel and St Georges Channel meet.
Heinz Ltd acquired Cape Cornwall in 1987 and later donated it to the National Trust to mark their centenary. The coastal rocks in the area, known as “General De Gaul in the bath” by locals, offer a distinctive silhouette visible from the mainland.
For those seeking adventure, the South West Coast Path unveils hidden beaches that have been featured in popular TV series like Poldark, shedding light on the region’s smuggling past. Botallack, Levant, and Geevor are some of the locations worth exploring.
Tourists can visit these filming spots, as recommended by Tripadvisor, to delve deeper into the area’s history. Botallack mine, in particular, offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the iconic Crowns, Cornish engine houses perched on the cliff edge.
Visitors have praised the experience at Botallack mine for its stunning vistas and unique historical setting. Nearby, Botallack Counthouse, run by the National Trust, provides a cozy café serving homemade treats and entertainment for children, making it a must-visit destination in any weather.
St Just is a gem waiting to be explored, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and cultural experiences for all who venture to this charming Cornish village.