Attractions and Places To See around Week St. Mary - Top 20

Week St. Mary is rich in history. You can visit the 14th–15th century Week St. Mary Church, which stands on the footings of a Norman predecessor. Explore the earthworks of a Norman Motte and Bailey Castle, locally known as Castle Ditch. The evocative 13th-century ruins of Penhallam Manor offer a glimpse into the past, and parts of Thomasine Bonaventure's College, founded in 1506, are also present in the village.

Yes, the area boasts several natural landmarks and viewpoints. High Cliff is Cornwall's highest cliff, offering awe-inspiring views over the coastline. You can also find the Compass Point Storm Tower, an octagonal monument situated high on the cliffs with breathtaking sea views. The parish also includes Brendonmoor SSSI and Greenamoor SSSI, recognized for their biological significance, with Greenamoor also functioning as a nature reserve.

The area offers various walking opportunities, including a captivating route from Week St. Mary to Penhallam, which combines history, culture, and scenic views, traversing Ashbury Woods and passing by an Iron Age fort. For more structured options, you can find several easy hikes, such as the Bude Canal loop or the Widemouth Bay loop. Discover more routes on the Easy hikes around Week St. Mary guide.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Crackington Haven Beach is a small cove with both shingle and sandy sections, offering public toilets and a cafe. The Bude Canal is also family-friendly, known for its abundant wildlife and pleasant paths for strolling. Additionally, the Bude Sea Pool provides a safe, natural swimming experience for all ages.

Although Week St. Mary is a few miles inland, it's close to the Atlantic coastline. You can visit Crackington Haven Beach, a picturesque cove flanked by high cliffs. For dramatic coastal views, head to High Cliff, Cornwall's highest cliff, or the iconic Compass Point Storm Tower, both offering extensive vistas of the Cornish coast and sea.

Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the historical village layout of Week St. Mary itself, which was once a medieval market town with

Absolutely! The region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes like the Widemouth Bay loop or the Bude Canal loop. For more detailed options, explore the Cycling around Week St. Mary guide, which includes routes of varying difficulties. Road cyclists can also find dedicated routes, such as the Bude Canal – The Old Laundry loop, detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Week St. Mary guide.

The parish of Week St. Mary is home to two significant Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs): Brendonmoor SSSI and Greenamoor SSSI. Both are recognized for their biological importance. Greenamoor SSSI also serves as a nature reserve, jointly managed by Plantlife and the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, highlighting its ecological value.

Yes, for a unique swimming experience, visit the Bude Sea Pool. This semi-natural tidal pool offers a safe environment for swimming, partially refreshed by the sea at high tide. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a refreshing dip.

The Bude Canal, opened in 1823, was originally constructed to transport agricultural fertilizer to the hinterland of Devon and Cornwall. Spanning 56 km, it played a crucial role in the region's economy. Today, while no longer fully navigable by boats, it remains a beautiful waterway known for its abundant wildlife and serves as a popular spot for walks and recreation.

Visitors particularly enjoy the breathtaking coastal views from spots like High Cliff and Compass Point Storm Tower. The tranquility and wildlife along the Bude Canal are also highly appreciated. Many find the combination of historical sites and natural beauty, such as the walks through Ashbury Woods to Penhallam Manor, to be a captivating experience.

Yes, Ashbury Woods is a notable wooded area near Week St. Mary. It can be explored via various walking routes, including a path that leads to Penhallam Manor, offering a pleasant natural setting for a stroll or hike.