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Zennor Cove

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description Zennor Cove Overview

Zennor Cove is a rugged inlet on the coast of west Cornwall, England, in the Penwith peninsula. It is reached from the surrounding coastal paths and is marked by rocky shoreline, exposed cliffs, and open views across the Atlantic. The cove is close to the village of Zennor and St Senara's Church, whose interior contains the well known Mermaid of Zennor bench end, a carving traditionally dated to the sixteenth century.

help Zennor Cove FAQ

Where is Zennor Cove?

Zennor Cove is on the rugged north coast of west Cornwall, England, near the village of Zennor. The coastal landscape is associated with the South West Coast Path and granite cliffs.

What is the Mermaid of Zennor connection?

Nearby St Senara's Church contains a famous medieval bench-end carving of a mermaid. Local folklore tells of the mermaid attracting the parish singer Mathey Trewella away from Zennor.

When was the Mermaid of Zennor story written down?

Cornish folklorist William Bottrell recorded a well-known version of the story in 1873. The carved mermaid bench-end in St Senara's Church is older than Bottrell's written account.

Is Zennor Cove a good place for a conventional beach holiday?

It is better known for rugged scenery, coastal walking, and folklore than for a broad sandy beach. Visitors interested in the area usually combine the cove with Zennor village and St Senara's Church.

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