Iron Age Embankment (remains)

Ancient defensive earthworks stretch across the clifftops near Porthcothan, marking where Iron Age settlers once fortified this dramatic stretch of Cornish coast. What remains today are grassy embankments and ditches - not much to look at unless you've got an imagination for history. The site sits on elevated ground with proper views across the Atlantic, which explains why our ancestors chose this spot to dig in.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic positioning, though families with young children might find it a bit underwhelming. There's no visitor centre or interpretation boards, just the earthworks themselves slowly being reclaimed by coastal vegetation. The walk from Porthcothan takes about twenty minutes across fairly rough terrain.

Best combined with a longer coastal walk rather than treated as a destination in itself. The embankments are most visible in winter when the bracken dies back, and the clifftop location means it's always windy. If you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Watergate Bay or Padstow Holiday Village, it makes a decent detour for adults who enjoy piecing together Britain's ancient past. Kids will get more excitement from the nearby beaches.