Shoresearch Week: Prisk Cove, Helford

Two spot goby

Two spot goby by Paul Naylor

Shoresearch Week: Prisk Cove, Helford

Location:
Prisk Cove, Helford Passage, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 5HY
Book
Join Shoresearch to survey rocky shores, identify marine life, and help monitor Cornwall’s incredible intertidal habitats.

Event details

Meeting point

Lay-by along old church road, Mawnan Smith W3W: ///giraffes.plant.clashing
View on What3Words

Date

Time
10:00am - 2:00pm
A static map of Shoresearch Week: Prisk Cove, Helford

About the event

Shoresearch Intertidal Survey – Prisk Cove, Falmouth
Date: Monday 8th September 2025
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm (Low tide: 12:56pm, 0.3m)
Location: Prisk Cove, Falmouth, TR11 5HY
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y1r5Eugw1KuZxAeQA
What3Words: manifests.digested.prank

What is Shoresearch?
Shoresearch is a citizen science project that invites volunteers to explore rocky shores at low tide, recording the wildlife and habitats found in the intertidal zone. The data collected helps monitor biodiversity, document rare or invasive species, and support vital marine conservation work.

What is a Shoresearch Survey?
Surveys follow a repeatable transect using a standardised quadrat method. Participants work in small teams, led and supported by experienced Shoresearch surveyors. It’s a brilliant opportunity to sharpen your species ID skills, meet like-minded people, and contribute to meaningful scientific research.

Who Can Take Part?
Shoresearch is ideal for anyone with an interest—or some experience—in marine identification, scientific surveying, or conservation. You’ll need to be confident moving across rocky, uneven ground and prepared to spend up to three hours on the shore.
Please note:

  • Surveys are not suitable for under 16s.
  • Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
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Meeting Point & Parking
Meeting Point: Lay-by on Old Church Road, Mawnan, TR11 5HY
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nSf2RxWsbJqDDSDb7
What3Words: giraffes.plant.clashing
Parking: Free roadside parking available along Old Church Road.

Route & Terrain
The walk to Prisk Cove takes around 15 minutes from the meeting point. The route passes through farmland (with grazing livestock), over rough footpaths, and down a steep slope to access the shore. Please wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for variable weather.

Booking

Price

Free

Suitable for

Adults, Experts, Beginners

Know before you go

Dogs

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No dogs permitted
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Mobility

The walk to Prisk Cove takes around 15 minutes from the meeting point. The route passes through farmland (with grazing livestock), over rough footpaths, and down a steep slope to access the shore. Please wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for variable weather.

Due to rough terrain and the remote nature of the site, this survey is not suitable for those with limited mobility. We strive to be as inclusive as possible—if you have accessibility needs or questions, please contact us in advance. While no designated quiet spaces are available, the area is peaceful and offers natural places to rest.

The nearest public toilets are in Mawnan Smith village (approximately a 30-minute walk). 

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Wheelchair access

No
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What to bring

Please come prepared for a few hours on an exposed shore. Recommended kit includes:

  • Warm layers and waterproofs
  • Sturdy footwear (wellies, wetsuit boots, or rock shoes – no flip-flops or bare feet)
  • Packed lunch and water
  • Hot drink
  • Suncream and sunhat
  • Optional: camera, ID guides
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Parking information

Free roadside parking available along Old Church Road.

Contact us