Lizard Point, Cornwall facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lizard Point
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 View from Lizard Point |
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| OS grid reference | SW695115 |
| Unitary authority | |
| Ceremonial county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Postcode district | TR12 |
| Police | Devon and Cornwall |
| Fire | Cornwall |
| Ambulance | South Western |
| EU Parliament | South West England |
Lizard Point is a very special place in Cornwall, England. It's the most southerly point on mainland Great Britain! This means it's the furthest south you can go on the main island. It's about 800 meters (half a mile) south of Lizard village. This famous spot is part of the beautiful Lizard Peninsula.
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History and Geography of Lizard Point
Lizard Point has been important for a long time, especially for ships. For many vessels, it's the starting line for their long journeys across the ocean. But it can also be a dangerous place for ships. That's why the Lizard Lighthouse stands tall here, guiding them safely.
Right below the lighthouse, there's a YHA Youth Hostel. It's a great place for young travelers to stay!
The area around Lizard Point is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a very important place for its amazing plants, animals, and unique rocks. You can find a small cove called Polpeor Cove just to the east of Lizard Point.
The area is also famous for items made from a special rock called serpentine. You can find beautiful carved ornaments and even pump handles in the local pub made from this rock. If you like rocks, you can find walks that teach you more about the interesting geology of Lizard.
Famous Events at Lizard Point
Lizard Point has seen some important historical moments.
The first time the Spanish Armada was spotted near mainland Britain was off Lizard Point. This happened at 3 PM on July 29, 1588.
Later, a sea battle took place here. The Battle at the Lizard happened between the English and French navies. This was during the War of the Spanish Succession on October 21, 1707.
Shipwrecks Near Lizard Point
Lizard Point's tricky waters have also been the site of shipwrecks.
The Sinking of the Ardgarry
On December 29, 1962, a ship called the MV Ardgarry was lost in a huge storm. The waves were over 9 meters (30 feet) high! All 12 crew members sadly died and were never found. The ship was carrying coal from Swansea to France. Years later, in 2006, the ship's bell was found. A memorial service was held in 2008 for the lost crew.
The Bugaled Breizh Sinking
On January 15, 2004, a French fishing boat called the Bugaled Breizh sank off Lizard Point. Five lives were lost. The cause of the sinking was investigated, but it was never fully agreed upon.
The Lifeboat Service at Lizard Point
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has a lifeboat station near Lizard Point. It's located at Kilcobben Cove, about 3 kilometers (2 miles) northeast of the point. A large boathouse at the bottom of the cliff holds a special lifeboat. To get the crew from the top of the cliff to the boathouse, there's even a funicular railway!
The Amazing SS Suevic Rescue
One of the biggest rescues in RNLI history happened near Lizard Point. On March 17, 1907, a huge ship called the SS Suevic hit a reef in thick fog and a strong gale.
RNLI lifeboat volunteers from The Lizard, Cadgwith, Coverack, and Porthleven worked for sixteen hours straight. They rowed out again and again to rescue all 456 passengers! This included seventy babies. Everyone on board was saved. Six silver RNLI medals were later given out to honor the bravery of the rescuers.
