Set within a surprisingly large parish, the village itself is small, intimate and wonderfully timeless. At its heart stands Widecombe’s most striking landmark: the magnificent parish church of St Pancras, affectionately known as the Cathedral of the Moor. Rising proudly above the surrounding rooftops, its tall tower and broad aisles are an impressive sight in such a modest settlement, hinting at the village’s once-greater importance and enduring spiritual role for the surrounding moorland communities.

Widecombe is inseparable from Dartmoor’s rich folklore. Tales of ghostly riders, storms sent by darker forces and mysterious happenings have been passed down for generations. Perhaps the most famous story recounts the Great Thunderstorm of 1638, when lightning is said to have struck the church during a service — an event still woven deeply into local legend.

The village is also forever linked with one of England’s most recognisable folk songs: “Widecombe Fair.” Sung for centuries, the song tells of Uncle Tom Cobley and his companions riding to the annual fair — a list of characters so long that the phrase “and all” has passed into everyday language. The fair itself, still held each September, remains the village’s most celebrated event. Today it brings colour, music and visitors from far beyond the moor, transforming the quiet lanes into a joyful celebration of Dartmoor life.

No visit to Widecombe is complete without pausing to enjoy local hospitality. The Old Inn, overlooking the village green, offers the perfect place to sit back and savour a hearty meal after exploring the surrounding tors and trails. With its welcoming atmosphere and traditional fare, it’s an ideal spot to soak up the character of the village while watching moorland life pass by.

For those who love keepsakes, the village also boasts a selection of charming gift shops filled with souvenirs and traditional gifts. Here you’ll find everything from handcrafted moorland crafts and local pottery to postcards, folklore-inspired mementos and treats made in Devon — perfect reminders of your time on the moor or thoughtful presents for loved ones.

Beyond its legends and traditions, Widecombe’s charm lies in its setting. Surrounded by sweeping tors, ancient tracks and open commons, it is a gateway to some of Dartmoor’s finest walking and riding country. Yet despite its popularity, the village retains a sense of calm authenticity — a place where time slows, and the rhythm of moorland life endures.

Whether visited for its folklore, its famous fair, a memorable meal at the Inn on the Moor, or simply to admire the imposing beauty of its church against the wild landscape, Widecombe in the Moor captures the spirit of Dartmoor like few other places can. It is not just a village, but a living story — one that continues to enchant all who pass through its ancient heart.

Other websites that may interest you:

Visit Dartmoor: Widecombe In The Moor

Widecombe In The Moor

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Here are 11 beautiful little UK seaside villages that prove you don’t have to head to Cornwall to find coastal magic.

1. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

Nestled on the Heritage Coast of the North York Moors, Robin Hood’s Bay is a picturesque former fishing village with steep streets, red-roofed cottages and a wide sandy beach.

Visit North Yorkshire describes it as: “Probably one of the most photographed and instantly recognisable locations in North Yorkshire… a picture-perfect escape for those looking to spend quiet days exploring and relaxing.”

2. Alnmouth, Northumberland

With colourful houses, abundant wildlife and a tranquil beach, Alnmouth sits within one of Northumberland’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Its sweeping coastline is perfect for walking, cycling and even horse-riding, making it an idyllic spot for nature lovers.

3. Porthgain, Pembrokeshire

The name Porthgain translates as “Chisel Port,” a nod to the quarrying industry that once dominated the village.

Today, it’s a unique and creative coastal destination, home to a much-loved pub, café restaurant and several art galleries.

4. Crail, Fife

Just 90 minutes from Edinburgh, Crail is a historic fishing village in the East Neuk of Fife that continues to enchant visitors.

Cobbled streets, historic cottages and a beautifully preserved harbour give it a timeless appeal.

5. Craster, Northumberland

Craster is known for its pretty beach and traditional fishing roots, as well as its reputation as a base for coastal walks.

Set within the Northumberland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s a peaceful stop for those exploring this unspoilt coastline.

6. Crovie, Aberdeenshire

Tucked along Aberdeen’s stunning coastline, Crovie is a hidden gem that perfectly encapsulates Scotland’s rich fishing heritage, according to Sharpscot.

Around 50 miles north of Aberdeen, the village is tranquil, remote and wonderfully atmospheric.

7. Seahouses, Northumberland

Often described as the Gateway to the Farne Islands, Seahouses is a colourful fishing village between Bamburgh and Alnwick.

Its location makes it ideal for boat trips, wildlife spotting and enjoying one of England’s quietest and prettiest stretches of coast.

8. St Bees, Cumbria

Frequently overlooked, St Bees is a small coastal village full of character, built largely from warm red sandstone.

Visit Lake District notes its long history as a holiday destination, excellent transport links and the standout St Bees Priory Church, famous for its magnificent Norman doorway.

9. Ballintoy, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Ballintoy is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and breath-taking coastal scenery.

Close to landmarks such as the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, it’s a favourite with visitors seeking the rugged beauty of Northern Ireland’s coastline.

10. Carnlough, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Carnlough Harbour is one of the must-see stops on the Causeway Coastal Route, particularly for Game of Thrones fans, as several scenes were filmed nearby.

For generations, the picturesque harbour has been the focal point of village life.

11. Bosham, West Sussex

Just two hours from London, Bosham is steeped in history and is believed to be where King Harold II prayed before sailing to Normandy.

Today, it boasts a thriving arts scene and Bosham Quay offers stunning views across Chichester Harbour, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

From hidden Scottish fishing villages to peaceful English harbours and dramatic Northern Irish coastlines, these seaside spots prove that some of the UK’s most beautiful villages are still flying under the radar — for now.

Source: Express

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Encircled by ancient city walls, York blends the old with the new in a way few cities can. Wander cobbled streets lined with independent shops, creative studios and family-run businesses, then step into world-class attractions, characterful places to stay and an ever-evolving food scene. Every corner offers something to discover, whether it’s a hidden courtyard café, a historic pub or a contemporary gallery tucked into a medieval building.

York is also a true festival city. There’s always something happening—from headline events and seasonal celebrations to inspiring festivals that fill the calendar all year round. Music, food, literature, history and culture are celebrated with the same enthusiasm, making every visit feel different from the last.

Perfectly positioned halfway between London and Edinburgh, York is easy to reach yet feels wonderfully distinct. It’s also the ideal base for exploring the great outdoors, with the Yorkshire Dales, the North York Moors and the rolling Wolds all just beyond the city’s edge—offering breathtaking landscapes to balance York’s rich urban experience.

Culture lovers are spoiled for choice, with around thirty world-class museums covering everything from railways and Romans to art, fashion and design. Add to that one of the finest racecourses in the country and a thriving theatre, music and creative scene, and it’s clear why York continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Don’t take our word for it, take a tour with Mick & Trudie.

Whether you’re drawn by history, culture, nature or simply the joy of exploring somewhere full of character, York offers an adventure for everyone—a city rooted in the past, alive in the present and always looking ahead.

For more information about York, visit https://visityork.org/

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A town shaped by history

Bradford on Avon’s story begins in Saxon times, and few places in England showcase that heritage so beautifully. The jewel in its historical crown is the Saxon Church of St Laurence, a tiny but extraordinary building dating from the late 10th century. Almost perfectly preserved, it is considered one of the finest surviving Saxon churches in the country and offers a rare glimpse into pre-Norman England.

A short walk away stands the elegant Town Bridge, a medieval stone bridge originally built in the 14th century and remodelled in the 17th, which still carries traffic over the Avon.

Another highlight is the Bradford on Avon Tithe Barn, a magnificent medieval structure built in the 14th century. This barn, one of the largest and best-preserved of its kind in England, was historically used to store tithes—taxes paid in kind to support the church. Its massive oak beams, soaring roof, and striking stone walls are a testament to medieval craftsmanship, and today it often hosts exhibitions, events, and community activities. For anyone interested in history and architecture, it is a must-see.

During the Industrial Revolution, Bradford on Avon flourished as a wool-weaving centre, and this legacy can still be seen today. Grand wool merchants’ houses and converted mills line the riverbanks, many now home to cafés, galleries and apartments that give the town its distinctive character.

Scenic walks and outdoor pleasures

Surrounded by rolling countryside, Bradford on Avon is a dream destination for walkers and nature lovers. The Kennet and Avon Canal runs directly through the town, offering flat, scenic towpath walks ideal for a gentle stroll or a leisurely cycle. Colourful narrowboats, stone locks and waterside pubs add to the charm.

For more adventurous visitors, the hills above the town provide rewarding climbs and sweeping views across the Avon valley. The walk up to Stowford Manor or across to Westwood reveals classic Wiltshire landscapes of fields, woodland and limestone ridges.

Just a short distance away lies the southern edge of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making Bradford on Avon an excellent base for exploring some of England’s most celebrated countryside.

Independent shopping and local flavours

One of the town’s greatest pleasures is simply wandering its streets, and nowhere is this more delightful than The Shambles, a short and colourful shopping alley connecting Silver Street to Market Street. Bradford on Avon is known for its independent spirit, reflected in its small shops and creative businesses. Along the cobbled lanes and through historic buildings, you’ll find artisan bakeries, bookshops, antiques dealers, and craft stores offering unique treasures you won’t see on a typical high street.

Food lovers are equally well catered for. Traditional pubs serve hearty British classics, while cosy cafés offer homemade cakes and excellent coffee. In the evenings, riverside restaurants and candlelit dining rooms create a relaxed but atmospheric dining scene, perfect after a day of exploring.

Arts, culture and events

Despite its size, Bradford on Avon has a lively cultural calendar. The town hosts regular markets, music events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from local produce to classical and folk music. The Wiltshire Music Centre, just outside the town, attracts internationally renowned performers and adds a surprising cultural depth to this rural setting.

Art galleries and studios showcase local talent, continuing a long tradition of creativity inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Easy to reach, hard to forget

Bradford on Avon is remarkably accessible. Whether you are coming from near or far the town is easily accessible by rail, car, bus or even canal boat.

With direct train links from Bath, Bristol and London, it makes an easy day trip – though many visitors quickly realise it deserves much longer. Once you arrive, the town’s compact layout means most attractions are within walking distance.

Whether you’re drawn by its rich history, scenic walks, welcoming cafés or simple riverside tranquillity, Bradford on Avon offers an experience that feels both timeless and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, look closer and leave already planning your return.

Other articles that may interest you:

Bradford on Avon tourist information

Bradford On Avon – Explore the Area

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This year, modern makers are reimagining the custom by replacing the apple with a vintage glass bauble, giving the age-old decoration a nostalgic yet sustainable twist. Crafted from foraged woodland foliage — such as holly, ivy, pine, and mistletoe — each wreath captures the wild beauty of the Cornish landscape while celebrating the spirit of resourcefulness.

Rooted in Cornish folklore, it’s said that those who share a kiss beneath the wreath will be blessed with good fortune and happiness in the coming year. Much like the better-known mistletoe tradition, the Cornish Kissing Wreath carries with it the warmth of connection and the promise of renewal during the winter months.

Method: How to Make a Cornish Kissing Wreath

Create the frame:

Bend two pieces of chicken wire or thick wire into hoops, each around 45 cm in diameter. Pass one hoop through the centre of the other to form a three-dimensional shape, then secure them together with wire or string at the top and bottom to create an “X” formation. This sturdy base is perfect for attaching greenery.

Add the foliage:

Layer handfuls of holly, ivy, pine, and other evergreens around the frame. Secure each bunch with floristry wire or string, working in layers to create a full, even surface that completely covers the structure.

Add the decorations:

Centrepiece: Traditionally an apple is threaded and tied to the top of the wreath, but a vintage bauble can be used for a modern twist.

Bottom: Hang a small bunch of mistletoe from the bottom for a festive touch.

Candle: Attach a red candle to the centre of the wreath. For safety, consider a battery-powered or votive candle.

Hang and celebrate:

Place the Kissing Wreath above a doorway, in a large window, or suspended from a ceiling beam. On the evening of the Winter Solstice — or a few days before the New Year — light the candle and share a kiss beneath the wreath, welcoming good luck, joy, and connection for the year ahead.

Whether hung above a doorway or used as a centrepiece, this rustic decoration combines Cornish tradition, natural beauty, and festive cheer — a simple yet meaningful way to celebrate heritage and the spirit of the season.

Curated from various sources.

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Bude’s coastline is breathtaking, shaped by the wild Atlantic waves yet softened by sandy coves perfect for family days out. Surfers are drawn to the consistent swells at Summerleaze and Crooklets, while calmer waters at the iconic Bude Sea Pool provide a safe spot to swim, whatever the tide.

On sunny days, the sea pool shimmers in shades of blue and green, offering a refreshing dip with the cliffs rising gently behind you.

The town itself feels welcoming and relaxed, with independent shops, cafés, and friendly pubs where conversation flows as easily as the Cornish cider. Wander through the streets and you’ll find everything from artisan treats to local crafts, each reflecting the creative spirit of the community.

Bude is also a dream for walkers. The South West Coast Path threads its way along the cliffs, offering panoramic views across beaches, dunes, and rolling countryside. Whether you’re taking a short stroll to Widemouth Bay or embarking on a longer hike toward Hartland, the scenery is endlessly rewarding.

Beyond the beaches and the cliffs, Bude has a rich story to tell. Its canal, once used to transport sea sand inland, is now a haven for wildlife and a peaceful place to meander. Canoe, paddleboard, or simply pause on its banks to watch the ducks drift by.

Must-Do Activities in Bude

Swim in the Sea Pool – Take a dip in Bude’s famous tidal pool, carved into the rocks at Summerleaze Beach. It’s a unique, safe, and refreshing experience.

Surf the Atlantic Waves – Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a first-timer, local surf schools make it easy to get on a board and enjoy Bude’s world-class swells.

Walk the Clifftops – Explore the South West Coast Path for sweeping ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and wildflowers in spring and summer.

Stroll the Canal – Hire a canoe, try paddleboarding, or simply wander along the leafy towpath and enjoy a slower pace of life.

Discover Local Eats – From fresh seafood to hearty Cornish pasties, treat yourself to flavours that are best enjoyed by the sea.

Explore the Town’s Independent Shops – Pick up handmade crafts, local art, or artisan treats—perfect as a reminder of your trip.

Bude is also home to the inspiring Two Minute Foundation, a movement that began right here with the simple idea of picking up litter for just two minutes at a time. What started as a beach-clean initiative has now grown into a national campaign encouraging people everywhere to take small, positive actions for the planet. In our previous article highlighting environmental projects, we saw how grassroots efforts like this can make a lasting difference—and Bude is proud to be the birthplace of one of the most influential.

What truly sets Bude apart, though, is its warmth. There’s a friendliness in the air, from the surf instructors who cheer on beginners to the café owners who welcome you as if you’re a regular. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and feel part of something special.

So, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, a family-friendly escape, or just a chance to recharge by the sea, Bude offers a little bit of everything—with a lot of heart.

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After closing in 1927, the jail fell into disrepair. In 2015, Twelve Architects began a major restoration to bring it back to life.

Bodmin Jail by Twelve Architects

After five years of meticulous work, the Grade II-listed building was transformed into a stunning luxury hotel and visitor attraction, reopening in February 2021. 

The £70 million restoration project converted the former prison into 70 unique hotel rooms, each crafted from three interconnected cells, blending original features with modern luxury. Guests can stay in rooms that retain the character of the original cells while enjoying contemporary comforts. 

Dining at Bodmin Jail is stylish and inviting. The Chapel Restaurant and The Champagne Bar serve contemporary meals, or you can relax with coffee and cake while soaking up the historic atmosphere.

Bodmin Jail also offers award-winning tours, paranormal experiences, and the immersive Dark Walk, making it a must-visit for history lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Tales of flickering shadows, mysterious sounds, and ghostly footsteps add an eerie edge, ensuring a stay that is as thrilling as it is educational.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of the unusual, or simply seeking a unique night away, Bodmin Jail offers a captivating blend of intrigue, culture, and modern hospitality. Its central location in Bodmin makes it an ideal base for exploring Cornwall’s scenic landscapes and historic towns.

Click here to visit the Bodmin Jail website for more information.

Click here to find out more about staying at the Bodmin Jail Hotel

Follow The Bodmin Jail Hotel on Facebook: The Bodmin Jail Hotel 

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On World Ocean Day in 2023, we went along to the World Ocean’s Day Beach Clean Up, organised by The 2 Minute Foundation as part of the Ocean Festival held in Bude and locations across the world.

We were so impressed with the concept of cleaning up our planet 2 minutes at a time, that we went along to meet CEO, Nicky Green, in Croyde, North Devon.

Nicky was appointed as CEO in 2022, taking over from Founder, Martin Dorey, and continues to take its followers on a journey to help clean up the planet together – 2 minutes at a time.

Our meeting took place on the beach at the very beautiful Croyde Bay and involved, yes, you’ve guessed it, a beach clean.

Born from a Hashtag

It seemed only fitting to hold our meeting during a beach clean, given that The 2 Minute Foundation began more than a decade ago with a simple hashtag: #2MinuteBeachClean.

As Instagram and Twitter grew in popularity, the idea was simple yet powerful: spend just two minutes picking up litter, snap a photo on your phone, upload it, and tag it with the hashtag. What started as a small campaign quickly snowballed into a social media movement. Today, that single hashtag has been used over 200,000 times.

Looking out across the now-pristine sand, you might think there’s nothing left to pick up – but a closer look tells a different story. Microplastics, or nurdles, are tiny fragments of plastic that have broken down over time. Hundreds, even thousands, of these tiny beads hide in the sand, a reminder that there’s always more work to do.

We spent an hour strolling along the beach, chatting as we went, and picking up litter along the way. By the end, our collection of plastic debris was substantial – much of it destined for the ocean if left behind.

These tiny plastics, or microplastics, are often mistaken for food by fish, seabirds, and other marine creatures. Once ingested, they can work their way up the food chain, eventually reaching humans and reminding us of the far-reaching impact of even the smallest pieces of litter.

Nicky has since moved on to pastures new, but The 2 Minute Foundation continues its journey. We’ll be returning in the coming months to see how the foundation’s mission is evolving and what the next chapter holds.

#2minutelitterpick

The Two Minute Foundation began with the ocean, but their mission quickly extended inland.

All waterways eventually lead to the sea, and there was a growing need to tackle litter before it reached drains and rivers. In fact, 80% of the litter collected on beaches originates from inland sources.

By removing harmful litter from natural habitats and inspiring action through the #2MinuteLitterPick campaign, the foundation has helped shift attitudes across the UK, encouraging more people to take a stand against litter and plastic pollution.

What came next?

The 2 Minute Foundation achieved charity status in 2020 and were on a journey as environmental educators but wanted to create a unique offering to environmental learning.

The 2 Minute Beach School provides environmental teaching right on the beach.

Teaching all things coastal from the tides, geology, and the intrinsic link between plastic and climate change, the sessions are delivered by qualified teachers.

The 2 Minute Foundation supports social and emotional wellbeing and development, providing planet positive actions to help combat anxiety and feeling of helplessness. Children benefit physically and mentally from the non-classroom based environment and time in ‘Blue’ space.

#2minutesofpositivity

We know that getting outdoors and doing something planet positive is fantastic for our well-being. The 2 Minute Foundation’s, #2minutesofpositivity campaign is all around taking 2 minutes for yourself, as well as supporting the planet. Reading a few pages of your favourite book, meditating, whatever brings you that little boost of positivity.

Follow this link to find out more about The 2 Minute Foundation and how you can help

Connect with the 2 Minute Foundation on social media for regular updates.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2minutehq

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2minutehq/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/2minuteHQ

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For walkers, it’s not just a trail – it’s an adventure, a challenge, and a chance to discover the wild beauty of England’s coast at its very best.

A Path with a Purpose

The South West Coast Path has its roots in history. Long before it was a leisure trail, it was the working route of coastguards, patrolling the shoreline in search of smugglers. To keep watch, they needed a clear view into every cove and bay, which is why today the path clings so tightly to the coastline. That legacy has left us with a trail full of twists, turns, and sweeping sea views at every step.

Designated as a National Trail in 1978 and marked with the familiar acorn symbol, it’s become one of the world’s great long-distance walks – as much a cultural journey as a physical one.

The Scale of the Challenge

At 630 miles (1,014 km) long, the path is no small undertaking. To walk it all in one go takes most people seven to eight weeks. And it’s not just the distance – the route involves 115,000 feet of climbing and descent, which is like scaling Mount Everest almost four times.

Walking the Path

The South West Coast Path is incredibly flexible, offering something for everyone. Official guides and the South West Coast Path website provide routes for circular day walks, making it easy to dip in for just a few hours.

Of course, you don’t need to do it all at once. Most people explore the path in sections, ticking off favourite stretches over months or even years. There are also countless short circular walks, perfect for day trips or family adventures.

If you’re looking for inspiration, The Guardian has highlighted five of the most glorious sections, with incredible sea views and gorgeous West Country scenery at every turn.

Landscapes that Change with Every Step

One of the great joys of the South West Coast Path is how dramatically the scenery shifts as you move through its four counties.

• Somerset: Starting at Minehead, the path crosses the wild edge of Exmoor, with sweeping moorland views and ancient wooded valleys.
• North Devon: Here you’ll find towering cliffs – including Great Hangman, England’s highest sea cliff at 1,043 feet – and wide sandy beaches that feel made for surfers.
• Cornwall: Perhaps the most iconic section, with rugged Atlantic headlands, secret coves, and landmarks like Lizard Point, the most southerly spot in mainland Britain.
• South Devon: Softer landscapes await here, with rolling green hills, riverside paths, and chocolate-box villages.
• Dorset: The trail ends with the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for fossils, dramatic chalk cliffs, and the natural limestone arch of Durdle Door.

Every mile feels different, and every day brings new discoveries.

Natural Wonders and Wildlife

The path is a paradise for nature lovers. Seals can often be spotted basking on rocks, while dolphins and porpoises play in the waves. Birdwatchers may glimpse peregrine falcons, gannets, or even puffins in certain seasons.

The flora is equally rewarding. In spring, clifftops are alive with wildflowers, while late summer brings a blaze of purple heather and golden gorse. Autumn storms transform the sea into a dramatic backdrop, perfect for those who enjoy the coast at its wildest.

A Journey Through History

Walking the path is like stepping through time. Along the way you’ll encounter:

• Iron Age hillforts and prehistoric settlements.
• Medieval castles guarding strategic headlands.
• Abandoned tin mines in Cornwall, part of another UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape.
• Stories of shipwrecks and smugglers, woven into the folklore of every village and cove.

Every footstep has a tale, and the route feels alive with echoes of the past.

Supporting Coastal Communities

The South West Coast Path is not only a gift to walkers but also to the local economy. A 2012 study found that visitors to the trail generate around £439 million each year, supporting nearly 10,000 jobs in the region. From B&Bs and campsites to traditional pubs serving fresh crab sandwiches or Cornish pasties, walking the path helps sustain the communities you pass through.

Why It Captures the Imagination

What makes the South West Coast Path so special is the way it blends challenge, beauty, history, and community. Few trails in the world offer such a mix of landscapes – from windswept moors to fossil cliffs, from hidden smugglers’ coves to lively fishing harbours.

It’s more than just a walk; it’s an immersion into the story of England’s coast.

So whether you’re taking a gentle stroll on a sunny afternoon or setting out on the adventure of a lifetime to walk all 630 miles, the South West Coast Path will leave you with memories as endless and unforgettable as the sea itself.

Featured image: Sculpture marking start of South West Coast Path in Minehead.

Other articles you may enjoy:

The South West Coast Path’s ‘forgotten section’: the quiet pleasures of south-east Cornwall

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One of these is the Making Space for Sand (MS4S) project, part of the £200 million Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme (FCRIP) funded by Defra. The project aims to find better ways of living with coastal change—encouraging a natural, ecosystem-based approach to managing our shores.

Cornwall’s Ever-Changing Sand Dunes

Cornwall’s sandy dune systems are a striking contrast to the rugged cliffs that dominate much of the county’s coastline. Unlike cliffs, dunes are always shifting—never truly “finished.” The sea can wash parts of them away while also bringing fresh sand to build them up again. At the same time, the wind constantly changes direction and strength, moving sand in unpredictable ways.

Although they cover only about 2% of Cornwall, sand dunes are incredibly important. They act as natural sea defences, helping to absorb the power of waves and protect inland areas from flooding. They are also rich habitats for wildlife, home to rare plants, insects, and birds, as well as being places of cultural history and recreation.

Sharing the Story of the Dunes

To help raise awareness, The 2 Minute Foundation, with support from Making Space for Sand, has produced a series of short films about Cornwall’s dunes. These films explore:

• How dunes are formed
• Why they matter for coastal protection and biodiversity
• The role they play in tackling climate change

With stunning visuals and expert insights, the series highlights the urgent need to restore and protect these fragile ecosystems. Each episode is a reminder that dunes are living landscapes—constantly shaped by the elements, but vulnerable to human impact.

👉 You can watch the full series below.

Making Space for Sand

The 2 Minute Foundation

CoastSnap: Science Powered by People

At the heart of MS4S is CoastSnap, a global community science project. CoastSnap began in 2017 at the University of New South Wales in Australia and has since spread across five continents. The idea is simple: use repeat photographs, taken by the public, to track how coastlines change over time.

Think about it—every day, thousands of people take photos of the beach on their smartphones. CoastSnap turns those everyday snaps into valuable scientific data.

How It Works

As part of MS4S, 23 CoastSnap stations have been installed at key dune beaches around Cornwall. Each station includes:

• A fixed camera cradle for smartphones
• An easy-to-follow instruction sign

Visitors simply place their phone in the cradle, take a photo, and upload it. These photos are then processed and added to a growing image library.

Why It Matters

The photos collected reveal both long-term changes—like dune retreat or advance—and short-term impacts from storm events. By comparing thousands of images, scientists at South West Coastal Monitoring (SWCM) and other partners can track patterns, create storm impact visualisations, and better understand coastal erosion.

But this isn’t just science for scientists. Each person who takes part becomes part of a global network, helping to build resilience and understanding of our ever-changing coastline.

Looking Ahead

Projects like MS4S and CoastSnap show how community action and innovation can come together to tackle climate change. By working with nature, and each other, we can prepare for the challenges ahead—while helping to protect the places we love most.

Take action today:

Snap a photo at your nearest CoastSnap station and join the global community tracking coastlines.

Watch the dune films and learn how to protect these vital ecosystems: Making Space for Sand | The 2 Minute Foundation

By working together, we can ensure Cornwall’s coastlines remain vibrant, resilient, and inspiring for generations to come.

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