Priest Cove facts for kids
Priest Cove (also known as Porth Ust in Cornish, meaning St Just's Cove) is a small, pretty cove located about one mile (1.6 km) west of the town of St Just in Penwith in Cornwall, UK. Its name comes from the Cornish words Porth Ust, which means the port or cove of St Just. Over time, this was shortened to Por’ Ust. The spelling "Priest’s" is actually a mistake, and the cove has no special connection to priests or religious leaders.
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Exploring Priest Cove and Its Surroundings
Priest Cove is a fascinating place to visit, with interesting natural features and a rich history. It's a great spot to learn about Cornwall's unique coastline.
What is Priest Cove Like?
This small cove is nestled right next to Cape Cornwall, a well-known headland. In the Cornish language, Cape Cornwall was called Kilgoodh Ust, which means goose-back of St Just. Both the cove and the land around it are part of a special protected area called the Aire Point To Carrick Du Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means the area is important for its wildlife and geology.
Walking the South West Coast Path
If you enjoy walking, the famous South West Coast Path passes right along the cliffs above Priest Cove. This long walking trail follows the entire coast of southwest England, from Somerset all the way to Dorset. It offers amazing views of the sea and the rugged Cornish landscape.
History of Fishing at Priest Cove
For many years, fishing has been an important activity at Priest Cove. People have tried to make a living from the sea here.
Early Fishing Efforts
Around the year 1830, some buildings called cellars were built at the cove. These were meant to start a pilchard fishery. Pilchards are a type of fish that were once very common in Cornish waters. However, this plan didn't work out because the coast here is very open to the weather and rough seas.
Today's Fishing Fleet
Even though the large pilchard fishery didn't last, a small group of fishing boats still operates from Priest Cove today. These boats catch different types of fish. For example, records show that fish like pollack (a type of cod) were caught and brought ashore here in December 1879.
Fun Activities at Priest Cove
Priest Cove isn't just for fishing; it's also a place where people enjoy outdoor activities and events.
Swimming to the Brisons
About one mile (1.6 km) out at sea from Priest Cove are two small islands called the Brisons. Every year, a special swimming event is held where brave swimmers make the journey out to these islands.
Cape Cornwall Regatta
In 1881, an exciting event called the Cape Cornwall Regatta took place right in Priest Cove. A regatta is a series of boat races. There were five different races for boats of various sizes. Boats that were 15 feet and 24 feet long had to race around the course twice, while smaller 13-foot boats raced once. A large crowd of spectators gathered on the cliffs to watch the thrilling races.
Images for kids
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Priests Cove, Cornwall
