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Gribbin Head & Daymark: The Clifftop Walk to Cornwall's Red Stripe Tower

Stride out to Gribbin Head, a dramatic National Trust headland crowned by a candy-striped 26-metre daymark tower, with 360° views of the Cornish coastline from the Lizard to Rame Head. One of the most exhilarating half-day walks in England.

What to expect

The walk from Fowey follows the South West Coast Path along high clifftops above turquoise coves, past the woodland fringe of the Menabilly Estate — Daphne du Maurier's inspiration for 'Manderley' in Rebecca. Gribbin Head itself is a promontory of gorse and maritime grassland, alive with peregrine falcons, choughs and Cornish sea pinks in spring. The red-and-white banded Daymark, built in 1832 to guide ships around the headland, is open on selected days and offers a staggering panorama from its viewing platform.

Book it with
National Trust — Gribbin Head
Free to walk; Daymark Tower open select days, free entry
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Good to know

The round-trip walk from Fowey is approximately 5 miles (2–2.5 hrs at a comfortable pace). Wear walking shoes and bring layers. Menabilly itself is private, but the coast path passes close enough to appreciate the estate's legendary atmosphere. Check National Trust website for Daymark opening dates.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Fowey — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Oceania · Oceania Insignia
12 nights · calls at Fowey
from $4,675
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Oceania · Oceania Marina
11 nights · calls at Fowey
from $4,999
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Azamara · Azamara Journey
11 nights · calls at Fowey
from $6,139
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Viking Ocean · Viking Mira
14 nights · calls at Fowey
from $7,999
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