The ‘Wild West’ Circular Tour

Experience a fascinating mix of dramatic coastline, ancient landscapes and centuries of Cornish history on this six-hour circular tour through the far west of Cornwall.

The ‘Wild West’ takes you beyond the familiar coastal views to explore a landscape shaped by generations of fishing, farming, mining and traditional Cornish life. Along the way, you’ll encounter rugged Atlantic scenery alongside reminders of a much older Cornwall, with prehistoric monuments, ancient stones, medieval features and traces of the communities who lived here long before the modern landscape took shape.

Your local guide will bring the journey to life with stories of Cornwall’s past, from its Celtic heritage and ancient traditions to the industries that once dominated the far west. The dramatic remains of the mining landscape provide a striking contrast with the fishing villages and coastal communities, helping to explain how people have lived and worked in this remote corner of Cornwall for centuries.

There are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, while many other points of interest can be seen from the vehicle or are only a short walk away. Your guide will also highlight the smaller details and lesser-known features along the route, giving you a chance to discover aspects of West Cornwall that are easy to overlook when travelling independently.

Combining wild coastal scenery with ancient history and the distinctive heritage of the far west, this is a varied and atmospheric tour for anyone wanting to experience a less conventional side of Cornwall.

A look at some of our favourite spots

lanyon-quoit-ancient-cornwall-BBlPnowy
Lanyon Quoit

Impressive Neolithic dolmen and burial chamber, offering a striking glimpse into Cornwall’s prehistoric past and ancient ceremonial landscape.

Poldark Country
Poldark Country

Dramatic coastal landscapes and historic mining country made famous by the Poldark novels and television adaptations, rich in Cornish history.

wayside cross
Wayside Cross

Ancient granite cross reflecting Cornwall’s early Christian heritage, often found standing quietly along historic routes through the landscape.

Land's End

Iconic westernmost point of mainland Cornwall, where dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic with spectacular views towards the open sea.

Merry Maidens
Merry Maidens

Remarkably preserved prehistoric stone circle surrounded by legends, ancient landscape and some of West Cornwall’s most atmospheric countryside.

engine-house
Botallack Engine House

Iconic remains of Cornwall’s mining heritage, dramatically positioned above the Atlantic as part of the historic Botallack mining landscape.

Cape Cornwall
Cape Cornwall

Rugged headland where the Atlantic meets the Irish Sea, offering dramatic coastal scenery and fascinating reminders of Cornwall’s mining past.

crowns-mine
The Crown's Mine

Dramatic remnants of the Botallack mining complex, with historic engine houses perched above the sea and cliffs that define Cornwall’s mining heritage.

Itinerary

  • Newlyn port and harbour.
  • Mousehole fishing village.
  • Merry Maidens Neolithic stone circle.
  • Medieval churches & Celtic wayside crosses.
  • Land’s End.
  • Cape Cornwall.
  • Ballowall Barrow – Bronze age funerary mound.
  • Dramatic north coast and tin mine country.
  • Lanyon Quoit portal tomb.

 

Plus many points of interest en-route – some visible from vehicle, others just moments from the car.  The Cornish history of mining, fishing and farming are imparted and important past events are described on this unique tour of Cornwall.

**please note that dependent on the season and time of year some of the above itinerary may be subject to change and alternative stops and experiences provided. Please note further that any food or drink are not included within the tour fee.**

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