Fox Cove

Nestled roughly halfway between Treyarnon Bay and Porthcothan on Cornwall's dramatic north coast lies the secluded Fox Cove. This hidden treasure forms part of a series of rugged inlets alongside Pepper Cove and Chair Cove, though Fox stands out as the most impressive with its larger size and superior sandy beach.

Distinctive Features

Fox Cove is instantly recognizable by its distinctive finger of mussel-encrusted rock that extends into the inlet, effectively dividing the cove into two sections. Encircled by towering, steep cliffs, the beach enjoys considerable shelter from prevailing winds, though these same cliffs cast much of the sand into shadow during morning hours.

Coastal Conditions

This section of North Cornwall's coastline faces directly into the Atlantic Ocean, exposing it to powerful swells. The remote nature of Fox Cove means visitors should exercise caution when entering the water. However, on calm days, the cove offers excellent snorkeling opportunities in its clear waters.

Maritime History

Fox Cove harbors an intriguing piece of maritime history—the remains of the steam tanker 'Helmsley I.' Wrecked in 1969 while en route to a breakers yard, the vessel ran aground when her captain mistakenly believed they were south of Lizard Point. Fortunately, all crew members survived the incident. Today, visitors can glimpse the ship's boiler and a section of its bow during very low tides, providing a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall's rich maritime past.

Access Information

Like many of Cornwall's secret beaches, reaching Fox Cove presents a significant challenge. The cliff path descent is steep and demanding, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues or the faint-hearted. Additionally, timing is crucial when planning a visit, as the beach significantly diminishes as the tide rises, virtually disappearing at high tide.