Cape Cornwall to Levant Mine Walk

Route Description for Cape Cornwall to Levant Mine Walk

The trail from Cape Cornwall to Levant Mine follows along the rugged terrain of the Cornish Coast for the first half of the walk, meaning that you will need some proper walking footwear in order to better traverse the trail. Additionally, the presence of historic sites along the route and the beautifully scenic views makes this a popular trail. Be sure to arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the views in solitude.

Featuring a number of ruins relating to the historical mining operations of Cornwall, as well as some amazing views that look out towards the blue expanse of the ocean, the Cape Cornwall to Levant Mine Walk is an exceptional adventure that is suitable for a wide range of walkers. If you are looking to learn some more about the local history of the region, then don’t forget to stop off at the National Trust Levant Mine Site, where you can visit the only working example of a Cornish beam engine.

Setting out from the Cape Cornwall car Park, make your way to the northeast for 70 m and pick up the footpath on your left. Taking in the beautiful views along the coast, you will follow this path for 0.7 km and turn left at the junction, heading downhill to traverse the beautifully scenic Kenidjack Valley. After reaching the valley floor, you will cross over a stream and arrive at another junction. Head left here and follow the track as it climbs uphill to the west for 0.4 km and passes by the ruins of Kenidjack Cliff Castle.

Picking up the footpath on your right, you will follow it to the northeast for the next 2.8 km as you traverse the rough and rugged terrain of the Cornish Coast while taking in some gorgeous views overlooking the water. Along this scenic stretch of the journey, you will pass by the ruins of countless buildings that once played a critical role in the boom of the mining industry in this region. After a short jaunt along the road, you will arrive at the Levant Mine, which houses the world’s only still operational example of a Cornish Beam Engine.

Once you have explored the area, you will follow Levant Road to the southeast for 0.5 km, before turning right along a quiet lane. Following this for the next 1.3 km, you will make your way to the southwest across the open farmland, before arriving in the charming village of Botallack. From here, you will turn left along the road and follow it for 0.2 km to pass by the Queen’s Arms pub, which is a great place for some mid-walk food and drink.

Shortly after passing by the pub, pick up the trail on your right and follow it for 0.7 km to once again traverse the Kenidjack Valley and meet up with Old Foundry Road. Continuing on to the southwest, you will traverse the open countryside and pass through the small hamlet of Boswedden, before arriving back at the car park where you set out on the Cape Cornwall to Levant Mine Walk.

Trail Highlights

Levant Mine and Beam Engine

Owned and operated by the National Trust, the Levant Mine and Beam Engine can be found near St Just, Cornwall and features the world’s only functional example of a Cornish Beam Engine. Invented in Cornwall, this type of engine utilized high-pressure steam to power a number of operations that were critical to the mining industry, including water and material extraction, in addition to the transportation of men and material underground. Tragically, the engine failed in 1919, which resulted in the deaths of 31 workers.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Levant Mine close?

The Levant Mine ceased operation in 1930 as the strain on the mining industry increased with the falling price of tin.

How deep is the Levant Mine?

Extending over a mile out from the Cornish Coast, the Levant Mine is approximately 600 m deep.

Insider Hints for Cape Cornwall to Levant Mine Walk

• Wear proper walking boots to better traverse the range of terrain along this walk.
• Keep your dog on a lead.
• The Queen’s Arm’s pub in Botallack is a great place for mid-walk refreshments.
• If you are looking for another route in the area, try the St Just to Cape Cornwall Walk.