Pictures of Gorran Haven

About Gorran Haven

Gorran Haven is a small scenic resort lying south west of Mevagissy. It stands back from rugged Dodman Point, a headland where there was once an Iron-Age Fort. At the top of the headland a giant cross acts as a daytime landmark for shipping. For centuries the spot had been the graveyard of many a ship and the cross was erected in 1896 by the rector of St.Michael's, Caerhays.

Historically, this beautiful location is said to be the place where Sir Henry Treworth of Bodruggan spurred his horse over the cliffs in 1485. Sir Henry had supported Richard III's ill-fated cause at the Battle of Bosworth and was fleeing his enemies. Ever since the event, the spot has been known as Bodruggan's Leap.

A feature of Gorran is its low walled harbour, an enchanting place to while away a summer evening watching boats sail to and thro' rocking to the gentle rhythm of the waves. Spreading out from the harbour are several ancient white-washed cottages, some dating from around 1550. A street crammed with a rich variety of quaint properties leads uphill directly from the beach whose southern end is protected by a small breakwater and overlooked by old cellars once used by fisher-folk.

A cliff top path takes you to Chapel Point, from which there is access to Great Perhaver beach. This is a lonely expanse of sand, equally lonely is Little Perhaver beach which can only be reached from the sea. Bow beach or Vault beach have delightful white sands and can reached via an easy coastal walk from which the walker may enjoy fine sea and coastal views.

The parish church of St.Gorran is about a mile inland in a quiet unspoilt hamlet which looks for all the world as though time had passed it by. The church is of Norman origin and it is well worth taking the time to get there, for not only is it historic but it rests in a pleasant pastoral setting.

Gorran Haven has the usual atmospheric Cornish inns, cafe's, and restaurants serving delicious crab and lobster. There is a good choice of holiday accommodation and plenty of nearby attractions, these include an abundance of beautiful gardens such as The Lost Gardens of Heligan and Caerhays Castle and Gardens.

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