Cawsand and Kingsand: The Twin Villages of Cornwall’s Rame Peninsula

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Human Settlement in England

Cawsand (Cornish : Porthbugh; lit. “Cow Cove”) and Kingsand (Cornish : Porthruw) are twin villages in southeast Cornwall , England, United Kingdom. These picturesque coastal settlements are situated on the Rame Peninsula and fall within the parish of Maker-with-Rame . Their unique charm, historical significance, and stunning coastal scenery make them notable destinations in Cornwall.

Geography and Location

Cawsand overlooks the expansive Plymouth Sound and adjoins Kingsand, which was formerly on the border of Devon and Cornwall. The border has since been moved and now lies along the River Tamar . The villages are nestled within Mount Edgcumbe Country Park , an area renowned for its natural beauty and historical landmarks.

The Rame Peninsula is often referred to as the Forgotten Corner of Cornwall , a testament to its secluded and tranquil atmosphere. The peninsula offers a blend of rugged coastline, lush countryside, and a rich tapestry of history that dates back centuries.

Geology

Cawsand Beach is a captivating mix of sand and shingle, interspersed with a network of rockpools that are teeming with marine life. This beach is found along The Bound, a scenic coastal path that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The geological features of the area are a testament to the natural forces that have shaped the coastline over millennia.

History

Early Records and Spanish Attack

The settlement of Cawsand is first recorded in 1404, marking its long-standing presence in the region. However, it was in 1596 that Cawsand gained historical prominence when local militia successfully repelled an attack by Spanish forces . This event underscored the strategic importance of the area and led to the construction of defensive structures to protect the coastline.

Cawsand Fort

One of the most notable defensive structures is Cawsand Fort, located at coordinates 50°19′56″N 4°12′9″W. This fort is an 1860s Royal Commission on the Defence of the United Kingdom fort built on the site of a 1779 battery . It was designed to mount about 10 guns to cover the western entrance to Plymouth Sound by the breakwater. The fort was released by the Ministry of Defence in 1926 and remained derelict until it was converted into residential accommodation.

Admiral Nelson’s Connection

Correspondence from 1801 to 1803 reveals that Admiral Nelson had stayed in Cawsand. It is rumored that he had dined at the Ship Inn, which unfortunately burned down in 2013 after several years of abandonment. The site has since been cleared and is now being rebuilt by The Peninsula Trust, which plans to turn the site into a cafe and affordable housing.

Religion

St Andrew’s Church

St Andrew’s Church was built as a chapel of ease in 1877–78. This charming church is a Grade II listed building , recognized for its architectural and historical significance. The church serves as a spiritual hub for the local community and a testament to the village’s rich religious heritage.

Congregational Church

Originally built in 1793, Cawsand also has a Congregational Church . This church has played a vital role in the religious life of the village, offering a place of worship and community gathering for generations.

Notable People

Cawsand and Kingsand have been home to several notable individuals, including:

• John Pollard : A distinguished Royal Navy officer.
• Thomas Ball Sullivan : Another prominent Royal Navy officer.
• Daniel Tyerman : A renowned missionary.

Twinning

Cawsand is twinned with Porspoder in Brittany, France . This twinning arrangement fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two communities.

Amenities and Services

Public Houses

Cawsand boasts two public houses: the Cross Keys Inn and The Bay. These establishments offer a warm welcome to visitors and locals alike, providing a place to relax and enjoy the village’s hospitality.

Transportation

There is a bus service that connects Cawsand to nearby towns and villages, making it accessible to visitors. Additionally, a seasonal ferry service operates to Plymouth , offering a scenic and convenient mode of transportation.

Rame Gig Club

Cawsand is home to the Rame Gig Club, a community organization dedicated to the traditional sport of pilot gig rowing. This club plays a vital role in preserving the village’s maritime heritage and fostering a sense of community among its members.