3 Best Sights in Land's End, The West Country

The sea crashes against the rocks at Land's End and lashes ships battling their way around the point. Approach from one of the coastal footpaths for the best panoramic view.

Over the years, sightseers have caused some erosion of the paths, but new ones are constantly being built, and Cornish "hedges" (granite walls covered with turf) have been constructed to prevent erosion. The scenic grandeur of Land's End remains undiminished. The Land's End Hotel here is undistinguished, though the restaurant has good views.

One of West Cornwall's finest beaches thanks to its natural setting, Porthcurno has a crescent moon of white sand (from crushed shells) at the foot of imposing dark, blocklike granite cliffs. The extraordinary Minack Theatre—carved from solid rock—is on one side, and there are cafés and a pub nearby. A steep slope can make swimming a challenge at times, but one area near a stream is good for families. The village and beach are signed off B3315, and the coastal path runs behind it. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (fee); toilets. Best for: picnics; swimming; walking.

On the aptly named Whitesand Bay, Sennen Cove is a gorgeous expanse of creamy soft sand. When the tide is coming in, the waves attract legions of surfers. When the tide's out, kids paddle in the tidal pools, and the sand stretches as far as you can see. Cafés are nearby, and surfing equipment is for rent on the beach. Sennen is off A30 less than 2 miles north of Land's End, and can be reached on foot on the South West Coast Path. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (fee); toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.