National Whale and Dolphin Watch: Mayon Cliff Look Out

Wilderness Photographic SQSW

Wilderness Photographic SQSW

National Whale and Dolphin Watch: Mayon Cliff Look Out

Location:
Mayon Cliff Old Coastguard Lookout, Sennen Cove, Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 7DB
Take part in the Cornwall Wildlife Trust Seaquest Southwest public seawatch surveys during the 2025 National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week to spot marine wildlife, record species, and play a vital role in marine conservation.

Event details

Meeting point

Meet the Seaquest Southwest team at Mayon Cliff Lookout Point. They will be wearing hi-vis jackets and have a Cornwall Wildlife Trust flag.
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Date

Time
11:00am - 1:00pm
A static map of National Whale and Dolphin Watch: Mayon Cliff Look Out

About the event

National Whale and Dolphin Watch is a UK-wide citizen science event run by the Sea Watch Foundation each summer, where volunteers join land and boat-based surveys to record sightings of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Taking place from 26 July to 3 August in 2025, the event supports marine conservation by monitoring species distribution through public involvement. In Cornwall, the Seaquest Southwest team from Cornwall Wildlife Trust will lead four public surveys at key headlands across the county.

Date: Saturday 26th July 2025

Location: Mayon Cliff Lookout Point

Google Maps Location

https://maps.app.goo.gl/LPbUszE2XCcrLw3L9 

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Time: 11am – 1pm

The survey includes settling into a sea-watching session, scanning the water for wildlife sightings. There’s time for breaks, and attendees are encouraged to bring a hot drink in a flask, snacks, and binoculars if available. Please wear or bring warm, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear, as the event takes place on exposed cliffs, where weather conditions can be unpredictable. Safety is a top priority, so be prepared for uneven terrain and cold winds. Everyone is welcome, making it a perfect activity for families, individuals, and nature lovers alike

Recommended Public Transport: To reach Mayon Cliff Lookout Point by public transport, the most straightforward option is to take the A1 (also marked as Route 1 or 1A) bus operated by First South West, which runs hourly between Penzance and Land’s End, stopping at Sennen Cove. The journey from Penzance station takes around 45–50 minutes, and the lookout point is just a 10 minute walk from Sennen Cove bus stop. Buses typically start around 07:52 and finish around 19:00, though times can vary on weekends and holidays. In the summer months, a scenic open-top bus (Route A3) also connects Penzance, Land’s End, Sennen Cove, and St Ives, though with less frequent service. If you're coming from St Ives, you’ll need to change buses at Penzance. Real-time schedules can be checked via the Transport for Cornwall or First Bus apps.

For any further information, please contact seaquest@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk 

Booking

Price

FREE

Suitable for

Families, Children, Adults, Experts, Beginners

Know before you go

Dogs

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Under effective control

Dogs are allowed but please bear in mind we are standing in a stationary position for two hours.

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Mobility

It is not compulsory to participate for the full two hours

Parking: Park at Sennen Cove Harbour Car Park, pay for parking at the pay station or via the Flowbird App (location 10101). 

Route & Terrain: The walk is approximately 10 minutes along uneven footpaths. The route is not wheelchair accessible due to narrow, rocky sections. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Toilets: Public toilets are available at the car park. No facilities are available at the lookout point or along the route.

Accessibility: Assistance animals are welcome. While there are no designated quiet spaces, the Southwest Coast Path offers peaceful spots for visitors to rest and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

Additional Tips: Wear weather-appropriate clothing, bring snacks if needed, and check local weather before starting. The coastal path can be windy and slippery.

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Wheelchair access

No
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What to bring

  • Bring your binoculars or you can borrow some from the group.
  • Warm layers
  • Waterproofs
  • Hot Drink and Water
  • Snacks for personal consumption
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Parking information

Please park at Sennen Cover Harbour car park.
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Facilities

Toilets
Shop
Cafe/refreshments
Picnic area

Contact us

Seaquest Southwest