Mother Ivey's Bay

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Mother Ivey's Bay, also known as Polventon Beach, is a beautiful sandy beach near Padstow

The sweep of golden sand is punctuated with rocky areas creating a series of pretty coves. The largest of these is called Little Cove. This beach has sand at high water. The other coves stretch away northwards in the direction of the Lifeboat Station. The largest of these is Long Cove but it can only be accessed at very low water.

The beach is sheltered from westerly breezes and the Atlantic swell as it is tucked in behind Trevose Head.

Although the beach is privately owned, there is free access to it from the Cornwall Coast Path

The beach takes its name from an old wise woman/white witch called 'Mother Ivey', who is said to have lived locally. This name was first used in 1870.

Swimming is reasonably safe on an incoming tide but take care not to venture too far offshore as there are strong currents.

Bodyboarding is good here when the conditions are favourable. It is also popular for snorkelling.

Mother Ivey's Bay is dog friendly with dogs allowed all year round.

There are no facilities. The nearest toilets are at Constantine Bay and Harlyn Bay.
Refreshments are available at Constantine Bay, Harlyn Bay and St Merryn.

There is no rescue equipment and no lifeguard cover.

Access to the beach is a short walk along the coast path.

There is no car park specifically for this beach so you have to find appropriate parking nearby.

If you like a medium length walk then there is limited parking at Constantine Bay but the closest, large car park can be found on Trevose Head. Until a few years ago the toll for using this private road would be paid to a lady sitting beside the lane but Pay and Display has now been introduced. Walk slightly inland from the car park along the road and then take the lane leading to the Lifeboat Station which connects with the coast path.
Access the beach by walking a short distance southwards.

You can also choose to walk from Harlyn Bay but this route is a little longer.

Location:
Sat nav PL28 8SL

OS Explorer Map 106

Road directions to Mother Ivey's Bay

Books online:
Click here to buy books online about Mother Ivey's Bay

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