Things to Do Around Kingsand and Cawsand: Discover Cornwall’s Hidden Coastal Village Gems

Tucked into the SE corner of Cornwall, the historic twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand sit hidden in plain sight on the Rame Peninsula, overlooking the blue waters of Plymouth Sound. These former fishing & smuggling villages, once separated by a county line, have long since grown into one picturesque community defined by colourful cottages, narrow lanes, and a charming seaside community.

Far from the throbbing tourist crowds of Padstow or St Ives, Kingsand and Cawsand offer a slower, more authentic slice of Cornish village life—and they are just a short coastal walk or drive from Ankorya, our luxury off-grid holiday cabin near Whitsand Bay.

Whether you're staying at Ankorya or visiting the Rame Peninsula for the day, Kingsand and Cawsand offer plenty to explore. From beach days and coastal hikes to great food, historic pubs, and creative culture, here's your complete guide to the best things to do in and around these hidden gems of Cornwall.

1. Relax on the Beaches

Both Kingsand and Cawsand have small but beautiful beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or launching a kayak. Cawsand Beach is sandy and gently sloping, great for families or a calm dip. Kingsand Beach, more pebbly, is tucked against the edge of the village and backed by charming cottages and the iconic clocktower. At high tide, these beaches nearly disappear, but when the water recedes, they offer plenty of space for beachcombing, picnics, or a paddleboard session.

These beaches are also dog-friendly (seasonally) and often quieter than larger Cornish bays, making them ideal for those seeking peace, sea air, and space to breathe.

2. Visit the Devonport Inn and Cross Keys Inn

Two of the area’s best-loved pubs are right in the heart of the villages. The Devonport Inn in Kingsand is known for its excellent food, sea views, and gastro-influenced seasonal menus using fresh Cornish produce. Just up the road, The Cross Keys Inn in Cawsand is a traditional Cornish pub full of character and history, with real ales, pub classics, and regular live music.

Both are perfect stops after a long coastal walk or a morning swim, and offer a friendly welcome year-round.

3. Walk the South West Coast Path

Kingsand and Cawsand are ideal jumping-off points for some of the best walking in Cornwall. One of the most popular routes is the circular hike from Cawsand to Rame Head and back, passing St Michael’s Chapel and offering panoramic views over Whitsand Bay and the South Devon coast.

Alternatively, follow the South West Coast Path east towards Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, with its acres of landscaped gardens, woodlands, and riverside trails. The variety of terrain—beach, cliff, field, and forest—makes the area perfect for walkers of all levels.

Staying at Ankorya? The South West Coast Path passes just above the cabin, connecting you to Cawsand on foot in under an hour.

4. Explore Local Art and Craft Culture

Both villages are home to a small but thriving community of artists and makers. Keep an eye out for The Old Bakery Studio and pop-up exhibitions hosted in community halls or local cafés. Handmade ceramics, watercolours, and textiles inspired by the sea and Cornish countryside are popular finds.

5. Take a Boat Trip or Kayak Along the Coast

From Cawsand Beach, you can often hire kayaks or SUP paddleboards in the summer months, or join a guided boat trip exploring Plymouth Sound, Drake’s Island, and the nearby River Tamar. The calm waters here are perfect for beginners and wildlife enthusiasts—you might spot seals, cormorants, or even dolphins.

For a more independent adventure, bring your own kayak or SUP and launch directly from the beach. Early mornings are especially magical.

6. Visit Maker Heights and The Canteen

Just a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk up the hill from Cawsand, Maker Heights is a cultural and creative hub with panoramic views of the Rame Peninsula. Once a military barracks, the site is now home to artists’ studios, live music events, and The Canteen, a relaxed café serving locally sourced food, great coffee, and occasional wood-fired feasts.

You can also book yoga sessions, wellness retreats, or explore the historic fortifications scattered around the hillside.

7. Take the Cremyll Ferry to Royal William Yard

For a change of pace, head to the nearby Cremyll Ferry landing and catch the short foot ferry across to Royal William Yard in Plymouth. The 8-minute crossing offers lovely views and drops you at a regenerated Victorian naval yard now filled with waterfront restaurants, galleries, and boutique shops.

It’s a fantastic half-day outing that blends coastal charm with urban exploration—and you can be back in time for sunset on the beach.

8. Explore Historic Landmarks

History lovers will enjoy the Cawsand Fort remains, the clock tower in Kingsand (built to celebrate the coronation of King George V), and nearby Mount Edgcumbe House, a grand stately home surrounded by landscaped gardens and walking trails.

The entire area is steeped in maritime history, smuggling tales, and Cornish legend—so there’s plenty to uncover as you explore.

9. Grab a Coffee or Cream Tea

Refuel with a coffee from The Stores (Kingsand) or Lucy’s Kitchen (Millbrook). For something sweeter, visit The Honey Room Tea Rooms for a classic Cornish cream tea (jam first, of course) or head up to The Orangery in Mount Edgcumbe Park for lunch with a garden view.

Great coffee, homemade cakes, and laid-back vibes are never far away in Kingsand and Cawsand.

10. Stay Off-Grid in Comfort at Ankorya

Just a short walk or drive from Kingsand and Cawsand, Ankorya offers guests a chance to escape the ordinary with a stay in a cliff-top luxury cabin. Our off-grid retreat combines sea views, eco-conscious living, and total privacy, with direct access to the South West Coast Path and easy reach of all the area’s highlights.

With Starlink internet, solar power, a wood-burning stove, and artisan design touches, Ankorya is ideal for:

• Romantic getaways

• Walking holidays in Cornwall

• Writers’ and creatives’ retreats

• Nature-lovers and digital detoxers

Plan Your Trip to Kingsand & Cawsand

The twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand offer the perfect blend of coastal beauty, village charm, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer eco-friendly holiday, this corner of Cornwall is full of memorable things to do.

Stay at Ankorya to enjoy it all with the added magic of off-grid luxury and breathtaking Atlantic sea views.

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