Attractions and Places To See around St. Erme - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around St. Erme include a variety of natural and historical sites in the picturesque Cornish countryside. This region, located approximately 5 miles northeast of Truro, offers rolling hills and scenic landscapes ideal for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore a mix of coastal features, historical landmarks, and tranquil nature reserves. The area provides opportunities to experience local wildlife and diverse habitats within a 10 km radius.
Best attractions and places to see around St. Erme
- The most popular attractions is Carnon Viaduct, a historical site that is an impressive part of engineering work. This viaduct carries the Truro to Falmouth railway line, with masonry piers from the original 1863 structure designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel visible underneath.
- Another must-see spot is Perranporth Beach, a viewpoint and settlement. Visitors can expect a huge expanse of sand and sand dunes, making it suitable for families, surfers, swimmers, and dog walkers.
- Visitors also love Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins, a viewpoint and historical site. This location offers coastal views and evidence of the area's mining history.
- St. Erme is known for historical sites, coastal viewpoints, and natural landscapes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to expansive beaches and nature reserves.
- The attractions around St. Erme are appreciated by the komoot community, with 184 upvotes and 28 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Carnon Viaduct
Highlight • Historical Site
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Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Huer's Hut
Highlight • Structure
Named after the Huer, an important figure in the pilchard fishing industry that once thrived in Newquay. The Huer would watch out from his high vantage point for the shoals of fish to arrive in the bay and then call out to the town by shouting 'Heva, Heva'. The seine boats with their long nets would be launched at once but then had to rely upon the Huer for directions. Holding 'Furze bushes' in his hands the Huer would direct the boats so they could first locate and then surround the fish.
At first just an oval shape building, a forecourt with five foot walls was later added to its seaward side. The original door facing more towards the habour was blocked up and a new doorway made opening on to the forecourt.
Owned by the Lord of the Manor Col. Treffry it was leased to the Council in 1906 for 983 years at the cost of one shilling per year. When the Council took pocession they converted it into a public shelter by widening the doorway and considerabley reducing the height of the forecourt walls. Today the now Grade II listed building has iron gates locked across the doorway and can no longer be use for shelter
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Newquay War Memorial
Highlight • Monument
For such a war memorial, regardless of nationality, language, or name, is always a testament to the horrors of war and tyranny. They therefore all have two essential functions, and this continues anew for each generation:
-1- To commemorate and remember the victims
-2- To remind the observer of the need to maintain peace
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Perranporth Beach
Highlight • Viewpoint
There are cafes and pubs in the village which make this an ideal place to stop to refuel on a hike.
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Tips from the Community
i would recommend this beach to anyone. the town gets very busy in the summer but i can honestly say this beach is huge, if you dont like sunbathing amongst too much cattle you can go for a short wander and set up elsewhere in seclusion.
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Once you get a little way from the main town it’s a lovely beach. In the summer season the closer you get to the town the more it feels like an extras convention for Mos Eisley Cantina.
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A beautiful section of the SWC Path between Perranporth and St. Agnes. The walk to St. Agnes is about 8km long, with no major climbs but fantastic views.
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From a distance, one might mistake it for a typical wayside cross, like the small, sacred monuments found in many places. But upon closer inspection, the true meaning of this memorial reveals itself to the observer: to commemorate the many victims claimed by war and tyranny in so many places. Thus, they remain a significant symbol even today – despite the significant time gap between then and the present, these monuments lose none of their relevance. For such a war memorial, regardless of nationality, language, or name, is always a testament to the horrors of war and tyranny. They therefore all have two essential functions, and this continues anew for each generation: -1- To commemorate and remember the victims -2- To remind the observer of the need to maintain peace
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Site of Alfred Nobel's Munitions Factory. Active during WWI & WWII, mostly filling grenades and other explosives. I would recommend looking up the talking history clip on BBC Sounds. Also the site of Tungsten mining during the same time.
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Great location to erect a memorial to remember those who gave their lives fighting for our freedom.
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While running along along Cligga Head you will find some cracking coastal views, but also some interesting evidence of the mining history. You are running in the shoes of the miners who would take this path to work.
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While hiking along along Cligga Head you will find some cracking coastal views, but also some interesting evidence of the mining history. You are walking in the shoes of the miners who would walk along this path to work.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore near St. Erme?
The area around St. Erme is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Carnon Viaduct, a significant piece of engineering with masonry piers from Isambard Kingdom Brunel's original 1863 structure. Another notable site is Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins, which offers insights into the region's mining past. Additionally, the 15th-century St Hermes Church in the village itself is a Grade I listed building, and the historic Huer's Hut in Newquay provides a glimpse into the pilchard fishing industry.
Are there any natural attractions or viewpoints worth visiting?
Yes, St. Erme is surrounded by scenic natural beauty. Perranporth Beach is a must-see, offering a vast expanse of sand and dunes. For stunning coastal vistas and evidence of historical mining, head to Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins. The region also boasts several nature reserves, including Five Acres Reserve and Ventongimps Moor, which are ideal for experiencing local wildlife and diverse habitats.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near St. Erme?
The rolling hills and scenic countryside around St. Erme are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for running, road cycling, and mountain biking. For detailed options, explore the Running Trails around St. Erme, Road Cycling Routes around St. Erme, or MTB Trails around St. Erme.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the St. Erme area?
Absolutely! Perranporth Beach is highly recommended for families, with its huge sandy expanse and dunes perfect for play. The Carnon Viaduct is also considered family-friendly, offering an interesting historical sight. Additionally, the Newquay War Memorial is a significant landmark that can be visited with family.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near St. Erme?
The countryside surrounding St. Erme is ideal for walking and hiking. You can explore various routes, from easy loops like the 'Running loop from Buckshead Tunnel' to moderate trails such as the 'Tregassow Wood loop from St. Erme'. For a comprehensive list of options, check out the Running Trails around St. Erme, which includes many walking-friendly paths.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around St. Erme?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences offered. Many enjoy the stunning coastal views and historical insights at places like Cligga Head Coastal Cliffs and Ruins. The vast sandy shores of Perranporth Beach are loved by families, surfers, and dog walkers alike. The impressive engineering of the Carnon Viaduct also captures the interest of many.
Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, if you visit Perranporth Beach, you'll find cafes and pubs in the nearby village, making it a convenient spot to refuel during your visit or hike.
What is the best time of year to visit St. Erme for outdoor activities?
The region's natural beauty, including its rolling hills and scenic countryside, makes it suitable for outdoor activities like walking and cycling throughout much of the year. While specific seasonal activities aren't detailed, the mild Cornish climate generally allows for enjoyable outdoor exploration from spring through autumn.
Can I find trails suitable for mountain biking near St. Erme?
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails available. You can explore routes like the 'Idless Woods loop with Woodman's Cabin' or the 'Carnon Viaduct – Newham Trail loop from Truro'. For more options and details, refer to the MTB Trails around St. Erme guide.
Are there any significant bridges or engineering marvels to see?
Definitely. The Carnon Viaduct is an impressive example of engineering, carrying the Truro to Falmouth railway line. It's particularly interesting as you can still see the masonry piers from the original 1863 structure designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel beneath the current viaduct.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the nature reserves?
The nature reserves near St. Erme, such as Five Acres Reserve, Fox Corner, and Ventongimps Moor, are managed by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and offer opportunities to experience local wildlife and diverse habitats. These areas are home to various species, though specific animals are not detailed, you can expect to observe local flora and fauna in their natural settings.
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