Maybe it’s the physically taxing and winding trail which keeps The Strangles beach relatively quiet compared to other beaches in Cornwall.
At least the trail is a sight for sore eyes – just look at those colours!
It’s even more dramatic than the trail leading to Durdle Door beach. But hey, you can lie on the beach for five hours anyway once you reach the bottom.
A word of warning to reach the Strangles beach. A large part of the staircase is missing. There’s a rope which allows you to abseil down the rocks. But be careful, I saw a man fall onto his back trying to get down!
If you thought the trail was tiring, wait till you have to walk up it… So try to reduce any unnecessary weight when packing your bags!
The weather changed by the time we left. Blue skies and sunshine were replaced with overcast gloomy clouds. It made the scenery look like we were in the Highlands or the Irish coast. It gave the scenery a dramatic look for another reason.
The trail resembled Jurassic Park at points.
We stayed in at a great Airbnb in Holsworthy if you’re looking for a place to stay! Cornishsecrets.co.uk also provides a great cornwall cottage experience for the tourists!
Where is the Strangles in Cornwall?
History of The Strangles Beach
The Strangles is a secluded beach on Cornwall’s north coast, nestled between Crackington Haven and Boscastle. Its name likely refers to the treacherous currents and jagged rocks that once made this stretch perilous for ships — a reputation that persists today, with swimming strongly discouraged. The beach sits beneath High Cliff, Cornwall’s tallest sea cliff at over 700 feet (213 metres), adding dramatic scale to the landscape.
Historically, the area was part of smuggling routes and coastal trade, though its steep descent and remote location kept it relatively untouched. The beach is now part of National Trust land and remains one of Cornwall’s best-kept secrets. With no facilities and a challenging access path, The Strangles has retained its wild character. It’s a favourite among walkers, photographers, and those seeking solitude, offering a raw and elemental experience of Cornwall’s coastline.
10 Interesting Facts About The Strangles Beach
- High Cliff, just above the beach, is the tallest cliff in Cornwall at over 700 feet.
- The beach is named for its dangerous currents and rocky terrain, which once “strangled” ships.
- A natural rock arch called the Northern Door stands at the northern end of the beach.
- The beach connects at low tide to Little Strand, a smaller cove popular with naturists.
- The descent includes a rope-assisted section over large rocks — not for the faint-hearted.
- The beach features folded sedimentary rocks from the Crackington Formation, rich in geological interest.
- Fossils, including ammonites, have been found in the shale and pebbles.
- The area is part of the South West Coast Path, offering stunning cliff-top walks.
- There are no lifeguards or facilities, preserving its untouched feel.
- The Strangles is considered one of Cornwall’s top secret beaches, often deserted even in summer.
Things to See and Do at The Strangles Beach
- Hike the Cliff Path
Follow the South West Coast Path to reach High Cliff viewpoint before descending to the beach. The views are spectacular, especially at sunset. - Explore the Northern Door Arch
Scramble over rocks to reach this dramatic sea arch — a favourite for photographers and geology enthusiasts. - Visit Little Strand
At low tide, climb over rocks to access this smaller, quieter beach. Be aware it’s a known naturist spot. - Search for Fossils and Rock Pools
Look for ammonites and quartz-veined stones among the pebbles and pools, especially at the southern end. - Enjoy a Picnic in Solitude
Bring your own supplies and enjoy a peaceful meal with only the sound of waves and seabirds. - Photograph the Rock Formations
Capture the twisted layers of shale and sandstone — a textbook example of Cornwall’s geological drama. - Watch the Sunset
The west-facing beach is ideal for golden hour photography and quiet reflection. - Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for kestrels, buzzards, and coastal wildflowers like gorse and heather along the descent. - Sketch or Paint the Landscape
Artists will find endless inspiration in the cliffs, sea stacks, and shifting light. - Combine with a Coastal Walk
Extend your visit with a hike to Crackington Haven or Boscastle for more scenic views and refreshments.
Practical Information for Visiting The Strangles Beach
- Location: Near Crackington Haven, North Cornwall, England
- Postcode: EX23 0LQ
- Access: 20–30 minute walk from layby parking; steep and uneven path with rope-assisted section
- Entry: Free
- Parking: Small National Trust layby; overflow field may open in summer
- Swimming: Not recommended due to strong currents and lack of lifeguard cover
- Dogs: Allowed all year; may struggle with steep descent
- Facilities: None — no toilets, cafés, or shops nearby
- Toilets & Food: Available at Crackington Haven (2 km) or Boscastle (7.5 km)
- Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility
- Nearby: High Cliff, Little Strand, South West Coast Path, Boscastle, Crackington Haven
- Official information: Cornwall Beach Guide – The Strangles
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