Portreath’s Tidal Baths (Lady Basset’s Baths)

Portreath’s Tidal Baths, often called Lady Basset’s Baths, are a series of historic rock-cut sea pools and tidal baths on Portreath Beach, Cornwall. Crafted in the late 18th century for Lady Susannah Basset and her daughter, these stone baths vary in size and privacy, ingeniously positioned at different heights so that at least one remains filled throughout most tides.

In addition to these elegant, gentleman’s-era baths, there’s a larger harbor-side pool—believed to have been created using dynamite—ideal for casual swimmers and families seeking calmer waters. The pools are free, dog-friendly, and accessible at low tide, with one tucked inside a cave and reachable via a metal ladder—a fun and slightly adventurous experience.