Facing the full force of the Atlantic this dramatic rocky coast which is punctuated by few safe harbours has witnessed many shipwrecks, inspiring the saying “From Padstow Point to Lundy Light ‘tis a watery grave by day or night”. 

The shipwreck legacy is only part of the maritime archaeological resource in the area which includes a range of intertidal peat deposits and associated submerged prehistoric landscapes, historic harbours at Boscastle and Bude, beacons, lights and lookouts related to shipping, and remains of coastal industries such as quarrying and lime kilns.  

The dynamic nature of the environment has meant the area has been often overlooked for its maritime archaeological potential, however, the shifting sands often reveal the remains of well-preserved wrecks, while digging for trans-Atlantic cable installation encounters prehistoric deposits.  

Driven by our Head of Research and drawing on work undertaken for a number of projects, MAT is developing a larger area study which aims to reveal the full potential of the area. The aim is to disseminate the many and varied stories of wreck, rescue, survival and maritime related human interaction with the sea to promote awareness and enjoyment of this important heritage. 

We have a number of activities and site focused projects in development, so watch this space for news.  

If you would like to find out more about some of our work in the area then check out some of our report and blogs on the area:   

 

North Cornwall Maritime Archaeology Reports 

First World War wreck of the Belem

Arch-Manche Project Section North Cornwall & North Devon

Crooklets Beach Peat for the SARCC Project

 

North Cornwall Maritime Blogs 

Belem – Northcott Mouth 

Miura – Stanbury Mouth  

Barnabas Shazell – Loss of a Bude Sailor