Understanding the landscape without the jargon

West Cornwall is often described as “dramatic” and “rugged”. These are vague terms that do not really explain what you will see. Here is a clearer description of the geography.

The Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard Peninsula is the southernmost point of mainland Britain (exact coordinates: 49.96°N, 5.21°W). It consists of rocky cliffs, moorland and sheltered bays. The eastern side faces Falmouth Bay and is generally calmer, while the western side faces the Atlantic and is more exposed. The distinctive serpentine rock, a green and red striped stone, makes the Lizard visually unique. The peninsula is also home to rare plants and wildlife, including species found nowhere else in Britain, thanks to its mild climate and unique geology.

The Penzance area

Penzance sits in Mount’s Bay, where the coastal plain meets moorland. The town acts as a natural western terminus before the landscape becomes increasingly remote. From Penzance two main roads branch out. The A394 goes south to the Lizard, while the A30 continues west towards Land’s End.

Land’s End

Land’s End marks the final point of the peninsula (50.07°N, 5.71°W). Geologically it is a granite headland. Culturally it is a well known tourist landmark, although geographically it is less dramatic than some nearby coastal areas. The rugged granite cliffs here have been shaped by centuries of Atlantic storms, creating dramatic formations like the Armed Knight sea stack just offshore. Nearby Sennen Cove is a popular place for families to spend a day out.

Key geographic terms explained

Moorland

Open hills with very few trees, typically covered in heather, gorse and low shrubs. West Cornwall contains large areas of moorland above the 150 metre contour. These exposed landscapes are often windswept and boggy underfoot, supporting ground-nesting birds such as skylarks and stonechats. The West Penwith uplands, are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest for their rare habitats and ancient archaeological remains.

Headland

A point of land that extends into the sea and is usually formed by cliffs. Examples include Lizard Point, Land’s End and Mullion Cove.

Bay

A curved section of coastline where the land bends inward. Examples include Mount’s Bay, Falmouth Bay and Coverack.

Granite

A very hard rock formed deep underground. Much of West Cornwall sits on granite outcrops, which create distinctive rocky hills and tors.

Specific distances and travel times

Penzance to Falmouth: 35 km (about 45 minutes by car)

Penzance to Land’s End: 28 km (about 35 minutes by car)

Penzance to Bodmin Moor (closest point): 40 km (about 50 minutes by car)

Download free tourist maps of these areas

To download a free map of West Cornwall click HERE and a free map of The Lizard Peninsula click HERE

Key takeaway

The geography of West Cornwall can broadly be understood in three zones: the Penzance hub, which is more developed and sits at moderate elevation; the Lizard Peninsula, a dramatic southern outpost; and the coastal moorland and interior, which is higher and more remote.