Great Western Beach - North Cornish Coast

Great Western Beach photos

The beach is popular with both families and surfers and although it is close to the heart of Newquay it is still one of the quieter beaches. There are rock pools to explore for the kids and you can walk to all the neighbouring beaches at low tide. It is also popular with beginner surfers.

High cliffs tower over the beach giving some protection from the worst winds, but also cast a shadow later in the afternoon so it is not always the best place for sunbathing.

The beach got its name from the Great Western Railway which ran a very popular service to Newquay between 1876 and 1960 putting it on the map as a tourist destination - they also built the Great Western Hotel up on the cliffs, immediately opposite the railway station.

Directions: Best to get there from the west by walking over Towan Beach and past The Island or alternatively by finding somewhere to park on Cliff Road (A392) which runs parallel to it above, and walking down. Access from town is via a steep road that ends as a slipway to the beach.

Find accommodation near Great Western Beach

Great Western Beach map:

Parking: There are two car parks on either side of the Railway station

Dogs: Dogs allowed

Facilities: Toilets, cafes, deck chair hire, surfboard hire and lifeguard cover during the summer months, disabled access

Nearest town: Newquay

More North Cornish Coast beaches »