Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Trevose Head Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is located on the rugged Atlantic coast of north Cornwall, England. Covering a stretch of coastline around the prominent headland of Trevose Head, the area includes a variety of coastal habitats such as maritime grasslands, heathlands, cliffs, sand dunes, and intertidal zones. The cliffs rise abruptly from the sea to heights over 150 feet, providing spectacular vistas over the Atlantic Ocean, the nearby sandy beaches of Constantine Bay and Treyarnon Bay, and the surrounding Cornish countryside. This dynamic environment supports an array of flora and fauna, including rare coastal plants adapted to exposed, saline conditions. Trevose Head is also an important site for seabirds, with species such as Fulmars, Kittiwakes, and various gulls often spotted along the cliffs.
The site holds ecological significance for its plant communities and breeding bird populations. Its combination of habitats makes it a priority for conservation, managed to protect both biodiversity and the geological features that define its character. The headland features a historic National Coastwatch Institution lookout station, continuing a tradition of maritime safety in the area.
Visitors to Trevose Head can explore several marked walking paths that follow the coastal edge, including sections of the South West Coast Path – England’s longest national trail. These routes offer opportunities to observe seals offshore, coastal birds, and the dramatic interaction of sea and land. The nearby beaches, with fine sand and clean water, are popular for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. The area's natural beauty and accessibility make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature watchers aiming to experience Cornwall’s distinctive coastal environment.
