St Just, located near the far western tip of Cornwall, is a place that still feels deeply connected to its past. Once a thriving centre of the Cornish mining industry, it remains one of the most characterful towns in the far west, surrounded by a landscape shaped by centuries of hard work and community life.
The town itself has a strong local identity. Its small square is lined with independent shops, cafés, and galleries, many celebrating local art and heritage. The streets are compact and easy to explore, and there’s a real sense of Cornish pride here that’s both welcoming and down-to-earth. You’ll find reminders of the town’s mining heritage everywhere, from the nearby engine houses perched on the cliffs to the old mine workings that dot the surrounding countryside.
At the heart of St Just, you’ll find a good selection of traditional pubs, small bakeries, and local craft shops, giving the town a lively yet relaxed feel. The parish church of St Just in Penwith stands proudly near the main square, a beautiful granite building that has served the community for centuries. The town is also the gateway to Cape Cornwall, just a short drive or walk away, where the rugged coastline meets the Atlantic. Here you’ll find the Cape Cornwall Golf Club, set in one of the most scenic locations in the country, offering breathtaking views from nearly every hole.
National Trust members can take advantage of free parking at the Cape Cornwall car park, which is perfectly positioned for exploring this dramatic stretch of coastline. From here, it’s just a short walk up to the iconic Cape Cornwall headland, where you can enjoy sweeping views across the Atlantic, the Brisons rocks, and the old mine chimney that stands proudly at the top. It’s a brilliant starting point for coastal walks, photography, or simply soaking in one of the most breathtaking spots in West Cornwall.
Just a short walk from the town lies Kenidjack Valley, one of the most striking and atmospheric spots in West Cornwall and somewhere I like to visit throughout the year.
The valley runs down towards the sea, following a stream that once powered the area’s tin mines. It’s now a peaceful, wild place, filled with ferns, moss-covered stones, and the sound of rushing water. As you descend through the valley, the ruins of old mine buildings appear among the trees, a haunting reminder of the area’s industrial past.
At the bottom of the valley, the path opens out to the dramatic Cornish coastline. From here you can look across to Cape Cornwall (the place where I proposed to my wife) and out to the Atlantic, a view that’s hard to beat on a clear day. It’s also a brilliant area for walking, with footpaths connecting St Just to the coastal path, leading on to places like Botallack, where the old mine workings seem to cling impossibly to the cliffs.
Whether you’re visiting for the history, the scenery, or just to soak up the quiet charm of a real Cornish town, St Just and Kenidjack Valley are well worth a visit. It’s one of those areas where you can easily spend a day exploring and still feel like there’s more to discover just around the corner.