St Buryan Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural wonders of St Buryan, from scenic hiking trails and historical landmarks to traditional food and cozy accommodations. Plan your perfect trip today!


St Buryan, a tiny village tucked away in the breathtaking Cornish countryside, is a destination that should not be missed on your UK travel itinerary. Located in the West Country of England, the village is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and quiet charm, St Buryan offers the perfect escape for travelers of all ages and interests.

In this comprehensive guide to St Buryan, we will dive into all the must-visit attractions, best hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, accommodations, customs, and much more! Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, you’ll find something to suit your taste in this magical Cornish village.

List of Places to Visit in St Buryan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St Buryan Church: This beautiful 15th-century church is the heart of the village and features stunning stained glass windows, ornate woodwork, and ancient tombs.
  • Buryan Heritage Museum: Discover the fascinating history of St Buryan and the surrounding area, from the Bronze Age to the present day, at this small but informative museum.
  • Merry Maidens: Just outside the village, you can find this mysterious group of standing stones that dates back to the Bronze Age. It is believed to have spiritual and celestial significance.

Natural Attractions of St Buryan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Coastal Path: Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coastline, starting from St Buryan and unravelling the wild and beautiful scenery. A wide range of plants and animals including dolphins and seabirds can be spotted.
  • Porthcurno Beach: Situated one mile from Land’s End, Porthcurno beach is a stunning cove with turquoise waters, white sands, and high cliffs.
  • Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens: A magical place with subtropical plants, contemporary art, and stunning landscape views, it offers a serene and beautiful walk in the heart of Cornwall’s natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St Buryan

  • St Loy’s Coastal Walk: This 4-mile walk offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and takes you through lush grasslands and old farmhouses.
  • The Tinners Way: This hiking trail is a 12-mile stretch of path which runs from Cape Cornwall to St Buryan.
  • Cycle Routes: Pick from a range of local bikes journeys that offers the best views of nature and magnificent landscapes.

Best Things to Do in St Buryan: Activities and Tours

  • Cornish Cream Tea at The Chough Bakery: Enjoy the authentic Cornish Cream Tea, a delightful combination of scones, Cornish Clotted cream, and jam while getting a fascinating insight into the local’s culture and hospitality.
  • Whale and Dolphin Watching: Take a cruise from Penzance’s harbour to gaze at the magnificent creatures in the big blue sea.
  • Craft Workshops: Take a craft-making workshop at local art studios and learn about traditional Cornish crafts such as pottery making, basket weaving, and embroidery.

Week-Long Itinerary for St Buryan

If you are planning to spend a week in St Buryan, you must not miss these hotspots around the place.

Day Activity
1 Explore the village and explore the museums
2 The Coastal Path Walk from St Buryan to Penzance
3 Visit Porthcurno beach and Minack Theatre
4 Go on a whale and dolphin watching tour
5 The Tinners Way hike
6 Take a craft-making workshop at local art studios
7 Soak in St Buryan’s culinary delights and enjoy the village.

Food and Drink Scene of St Buryan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cornish Pasty: A pastry filled with beef, potato, swede, and onion - a classic Cornish dish that is a must-try for every traveler.
  • Cornish Yarg and Cornish Cheeseboard: Savor the flavours of the raw milk cheese of Cornwall with the famous Cornish Yarg.
  • Cornish ale: Traditional Cornish ale is available in several pubs and bars, and a perfect drink to unwind and get exposed to local culture.

Local Beverages

  • Cider: Made from the fresh apple juice, Cornish Cider is sweeter than most ciders and comes in a variety of flavours.
  • Cornish Wine: A rarity due to its climate, Cornish wines are unique and exquisite, made from luscious ripe grapes.

Where to Stay in St Buryan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Old Parsonage: A self-catering cottage in the heart of the village, that has quite a historical significance and is a comfortable, homely stay.
  • The Smugglers Inn: A traditional Cornish pub & Inn, that maintains the authentic feel and will give you a taste of local hospitality.
  • Higher Faugan Parc: A luxury B&B situated just 5 miles away at the town of Penzance, with stunning views of the sea and countryside and exceptional hospitality.

What to Buy in St Buryan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cornish Sea Salt: Harvested from the purest waters of the Cornish sea, this salt is perfect for seasoning your dishes.
  • Cornish Fudge: A yummy treat for the sweet lovers, Cornish fudge is available in various flavours and will satisfy your cravings.
  • St Buryan Honey: The local honey is a naturally-occurring remedy for several ailments and is a great product to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of St Buryan

Cornish culture and customs revolve around several themes, including myths and legends, folk tales, and music. This mystical and enigmatic culture can be seen today in celebrations such as the Obby Oss festival, hurling, and floral dance. Being friendly and hospitable is also integral to the Cornish way of life.

Best Time to Visit St Buryan

Summer and early autumn (June to September) is an excellent time to visit St Buryan when the weather is pleasant, and the village is buzzing with outdoor activities and local markets. The mild Cornish climate ensures that you can visit at any time throughout the year and have a great time.

Do’s and Don’ts of St Buryan

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks
  • Respect the customs and culture of the village and its locals
  • Take time to explore the natural wonders of the surrounding area

Don’t:

  • Leave without experiencing the beautiful coastline and countryside completely
  • Litter in the streets and countryside
  • Be disrespectful or rude to the locals

Safety and Health

Safety in St Buryan

St Buryan is a peaceful, quiet village with very minimal crime rates. Due to the rugged scenery, some areas can be a bit tricky to navigate, so it is crucial to wear appropriate gear and take necessary precautions if you plan to go on an adventure in the countryside. In case of an emergency, dial 999 or 112 for immediate assistance.

Health in St Buryan

St Buryan has a GP surgery but lacks a hospital. For serious medical emergencies, it is necessary to visit the nearest hospital at Penzance, which is about 5-6 miles away. It is advisable to carry appropriate healthcare insurance, including medical evacuation and travel insurance, before traveling to St Buryan.

Getting to St Buryan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St Buryan

  • Newquay Airport (45 miles)
  • Exeter Airport (106 miles)
  • Bristol Airport (157 miles)

Bus Stations Near St Buryan

  • Penzance Bus Station (5 miles)
  • St Buryan Bus Stop (In village)

Other Options

Train Services: The nearest rail station is Penzance Train Station, about 5 miles away, which connects to most major UK cities.

Car: St Buryan is easily accessible via the A30 and A39 highways. Particular care must be taken to narrow roads around the village.

How to Get Around in St Buryan

St Buryan is a small village, and most attractions are within walking distance. The surrounding area has narrow roads and high terrain, making cycling an excellent way to get around. Taxis and buses are also available in the village if required.

Where to Go Next from St Buryan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Land’s End: The most southwesterly point in England is only 9 miles away from St Buryan and offers stunning coastal views and unique attractions.
  • Tate St. Ives: A short 11 miles train ride away from Penzance, this world-class museum showcases modern art & exhibitions.
  • Isles of Scilly: Get yourself transported to paradise with stunning sands and island hopping just an hour away from Penzance Ferry Port.

Conclusion

St Buryan is an idyllic destination that has something for everyone, from stunning scenery and natural wonders to heritage and traditions. It is a hidden gem that offers a truly authentic British experience and a way of life that is hard to find in the hustle and bustle of the modern world. Plan your trip to St Buryan today and get ready to experience the magic of Cornwall’s countryside!

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