Pictures of Sennen

About Sennen

Sennen is but a stone's throw from the towering cliffs of Land's End from which there are magnificent views across a swirling deep blue ocean, its waves, tinged with a creamy-white froth, sometimes hiding bulky, basking sharks. Fortunately, these are harmless and do nothing more than enhance the view.

In 1979, this little fishing village was at the centre of the disasterous Fastnet yacht race when its lifeboat crews were at sea for many hours helping survivors. The gales were relentless and several yachts and crews were lost. In the lifeboat house is a framed telegram from the Prime Minister paying tribute to the bravery of the crew who fought so valiantly to save the lives of others.

Sennen has a delightful harbour lying at the foot of ancient streets that are packed with old and interesting colourwashed cottages, shops and inns. From the harbour there is a lovely view across Whitesand Bay which is renowned for excellent surfing. In high summer there is a festival 'air' about this attractive place, the sea is thronged with surfers, swimmers, yachts and gaily painted pleasure craft. The soft beach is a haven for sunbathers and for little children who have a splendid time building sand castles and searching among rock pools for crabs.

On an historic note, Sennen is said to have been the site of the last battle between the men of Cornwall and the invading Danes and the parish church is the most westerly church in England. It is a beautiful church and among its many treasures is a medieval statue of the Virgin Mary. The church is well worth a visit.

A walk along the cliff from Sennen to Lands End is a richly rewarding experience-the views are outstanding. The Minack Open Air Theatre is within easy driving distance, so too, are the gardens at Trengwainton, owned by the NT. Other attractions are; Levant Steam Engine NT and Geevor Tin Mines.