10 reasons why everyone should visit the Lizard

With its turquoise seas and white sands, you might be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled upon a tropical paradise. But Lizard, situated in Cornwall, is much easier to get to than the Caribbean and makes for the perfect summer escape.

There are much myth and mystery surrounding the odd name that accompanies this magical land. The most common explanation seems to be that it’s a mutation of the Cornish ‘Lys Ardh’ meaning ‘high court’, or ‘Lezou’ for ‘headland’. But regardless of how it got its name, it’s definitely not to be missed.

With dog-friendly national trust parks, picturesque fishing villages, epic water sports and endless traditional pubs, it’s got something for the whole family. So, take a week off from work, grab a friend and read on for a whole host of great things to do while you’re in Lizard.

See the best places to stay in Lizard >

1. Walk along epic coastal pathways

The Lizard peninsula is an area of astounding natural beauty and it would be easy to spend your whole visit just exploring the sea views along the coastline. The Lizard finds itself on the South West Coast Path, an ideal way to explore the stretches of coast extending each way from Lizard Point.

This path extends for miles leading you along cliff tops and past enticing coves and bays which are perfect for a dip. This path is also an excellent vantage point to observe the wonderful wildlife that populates the peninsula. There have been sightings of dolphins, porpoises, sharks and seals off the coast with the Lizard also being home to the famous Cornish Chough.

2. Experience the true Cornish pasty

It’s widely known that the best pasties are made in Cornwall. When it comes to Cornish pasties, Ann’s Pasties at the Lizard might just be the best of the bunch. They are truly wonderful and not to be missed on any trip through the peninsula. These delights are handmade to a recipe that has been passed down through the generations. Although Ann will deliver to anywhere in mainland Britain they are best savoured with the sun on your face and the wind in your hair as you soak up the fresh Cornish air.

3. Explore sandy beaches and hidden coves

The Lizard is home to many wonderful beaches tucked away in the coves and bays along its winding coastline. With many of them boasting soft sand and glittering turquoise waters, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d magically been transported somewhere more exotic than the south coast. Of all of these gems, Kynance Cove is considered the most popular. Take an afternoon to soak up the sun on its expanse of white sand and take a dip in the refreshing waters. If you head there for low tide there’s also a wealth of caves and rock stacks to be explored.

4. Grab some delicious ice-cream

A trip to the Lizard isn’t complete without visiting Roskilly’s Farm. This delightful working organic farm is a treat for all ages. You can meet the animals, watch the milking and take a wander around the meadows. It’s a beautifully tranquil place. This farm is home to the beloved Roskilly’s ice-cream and fudge, with all the cream for the ice-cream being produced right there on the farm. There are over 30 flavours of ice-cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt to choose from; with everything from Pear & Elderflower to Apple Crumble or Malty Mystery, we think you’ll need more than one scoop! There’s even a restaurant on-site if you need something a bit more savoury.

5. Experience the great outdoors at Lizard Adventure

For the more adventurous among you, there’s Lizard Adventure. This is the place to go for all your outdoor pursuit needs. It offers a range of activities including kayaking, paddleboarding and rock climbing so you can be certain that a day of fun awaits. This is the perfect opportunity to get away from the summer crowds and venture into the wild, secluded parts of Cornwall. From the coast, you’ll be able to experience this magical corner of the world from a truly unique perspective.

6. Get cream tea at the most southerly cafe in England

7. Climb the Lizard Lighthouse

After eating your fill at the most southerly point, head around the corner to the only lighthouse in the whole of Cornwall that you can climb. Make your way up to the top of the Lizard Lighthouse and take in the stunning views of the coast and sea stretching out before you. With a foghorn you can hear for miles, the lighthouse is an essential part of the Lizard. This point of land sticks so far out it’s a danger to passing ships and as a result, the surrounding waters are littered with the wrecks of ships. With an interactive learning centre in the Engine Room, you’ll be sure to learn a thing or two, too!

8. Visit the seals 

After eating your fill at the most southerly point, head around the corner to the only lighthouse in the whole of Cornwall that you can climb. Make your way up to the top of the Lizard Lighthouse and take in the stunning views of the coast and sea stretching out before you. With a foghorn you can hear for miles, the lighthouse is an essential part of the Lizard. This point of land sticks so far out it’s a danger to passing ships and as a result, the surrounding waters are littered with the wrecks of ships. With an interactive learning centre in the Engine Room, you’ll be sure to learn a thing or two, too!

9. Exotic plants galore

Although you might be lucky to spot the odd seal from the South West Coastal Path, the Seal Sanctuary found to the northwest of the peninsula is well worth a visit. This sanctuary is the only fully operational seal rescue centre in Cornwall and is set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside. The Seal Sanctuary takes in sick, injured and stray seals from beaches across Britain; providing a lifeline to seals in need. There are loads of other animals too though, including goats, ponies, sheep and even penguins!  

10. An interesting history

History was made at the Lizard in 1901 by Guglielmo Marconi. In December 1909, from the point where the Marconi Centre now stands, a signal was sent all the way across the Atlantic to Marconi’s temporary station in Newfoundland. This, as well as the rest of Marconi’s work, had a huge impact on the development of telecommunications – eventually leading to mobile phones and the internet! The centre is an intriguing and insightful place that you shouldn’t miss. Ideal for when the weather lets you down.