Church Cove Cornwall 1896 – 2025

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## Church Cove, Gunwalloe

In 1885, the lifeboat house at Church Cove was constructed at a cost of £300, funded by local cousins in memory of their parents. The inscription above the door reads: “Erected and presented to Royal National Lifeboat Institution in memory of T and H S Chavasse and Rev and M C Chavasse.” However, the station was closed in 1899 when a newer, larger vessel was stationed at Polpeor Cove. The lifeboat house was subsequently sold for £40. (cornishbirdblog.com)

Church Cove, also known as Gunwalloe Cove, is a picturesque sandy cove located on the Lizard Peninsula in south Cornwall. The cove is characterized by a sandy beach scattered with sand and pebbles, backed by low-lying dunes, and features numerous rock pools. A small church, St. Winwaloe's Church, with an unusual detached bell tower, is situated at the north of the beach, perched on the cliffs overlooking the cove. (britishbeaches.uk)

The church, dedicated to the Breton saint Winwaloe, is the only Cornish church actually sited on a beach. The tower may be the oldest feature, perhaps dating to pre-1400. (chct.info)

In the 19th century, the cove began to attract more tourists than fishermen. From about the 1870s onwards, until well into the 20th century, small steamships carried day trippers from Falmouth to Church Cove. These tourists would walk up the hill to visit the lighthouse and purchase serpentine souvenirs in Lizard village. (cornishbirdblog.com)

Today, Church Cove remains a popular destination for visitors seeking a picturesque spot, with its golden sand, grass-topped dunes, and wildlife. The cove is also known for its role in the BBC series *Poldark*, where it served as a dramatic backdrop for shipwreck scenes. (countrylife.co.uk)