Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach
National Trust cove on the Lizard beside the Church of the Storms, a medieval church whose detached bell tower is built into the cliff at the beach's edge.
At a Glance
Beach Type
mixed
Dogs
Seasonal restrictions
Lifeguard
Yes (seasonal)
Parking
Available
Access
Difficult (cliff path)
Swimming
Generally safe
Facilities
Activities
Stay near Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach
Closest cottage just 1.6km away
Situated close to the Lizard on Cornwall’s southern coast, Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach is a distinctive location renowned for its serene atmosphere, its medieval church beside the beach, and its position within the Gunwalloe National Trust property. This beach, which is a part of the Gunwalloe National Trust property, provides guests with a charming mix of historical charm and beautiful scenery. The beach’s rocky outcrops and sandy shoreline combine to form a charming coastline. Swimming, canoeing, and exploring the tidal pools - which are brimming with marine life - are all made possible by the crystal-clear, blue seas.
The old St Winwaloe Church, also referred to as the Church of the Storms, is one of the most notable aspects of Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach. Historic England dates the church mainly to the late 15th or early 16th century. Its detached bell tower, built into the cliff, is reputed to date from the 13th century, though much rebuilt in the 19th century. Together they blend into the craggy coastline and give the beach a special character.
Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach has a small car park and public toilets. A seasonal café serves light meals and refreshments. The beach sits on the South West Coast Path, which runs along the cliffs with open views of the nearby headlands and ocean. Additional exploration opportunities are provided by the nearby Halzephron Cliffs and the quaint settlement of Gunwalloe.
Make a day of it
Things to do near Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
- Can I take my dog to Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach?
- Dogs are welcome at Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach outside the summer restriction period. Cornwall Council bans dogs from Church Cove from 10am to 6pm between 1 July and 31 August; outside those hours and dates they are welcome.
- Is Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach lifeguarded?
- Yes, Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards from 10am to 6pm. In 2026 cover runs daily from 18 July to 6 September, and outside those dates there are no lifeguards. Always swim between the red and yellow flags.
- Is there parking at Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach?
- Yes, there is parking at or near Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach. Arrive early in peak season as spaces fill quickly.
- Is Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach good for swimming?
- Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach is a good beach for swimming. RNLI lifeguards patrol daily from 18 July to 6 September in 2026.
- What facilities are at Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach?
- Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach has toilets, parking. Facilities may be seasonal - some close outside summer.
- Is Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach good for rock pooling?
- Yes, Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach has rock pools to explore at low tide. The best time is on a falling tide about an hour after high water. Wear shoes with grip and watch out for incoming tides.
- Where is Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach?
- Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach is on the south coast of Cornwall, near Helston.
- How do I get to Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach?
- Set your sat nav for Helston and follow local signs from there. There is a car park at the beach. Cornwall beach car parks fill early in peak season, so aim to arrive before mid-morning in summer.
- Where can I stay near Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach?
- There are several holiday properties near Gunwalloe Church Cove Beach, with the closest just 1.6km away. Prices start from £863 per week.
