King Edward Cres, Newquay TR7 1EN
Huer's Hut
The Huer's Hut is a listed building in Newquay, Cornwall, England. It may date from the 14th century and have originally seen use as a hermitage and lighthouse. By the 16th century it was used as a lookout point for the seasonal arrival of pilchards in the bay.
Location
About
Located in the seaside town of Newquay in Cornwall, England, Huer's Hut is a historical landmark that offers tourists a glimpse into the region's rich fishing heritage. The small stone building, perched atop Towan Head, was once used by fishermen to spot shoals of pilchards, a small, oily fish that was a valuable commodity in the 19th century.
Visiting Huer's Hut today provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the important role that the fishing industry played in the development of Cornwall. The hut was originally built in 1846 and was used by huer, a lookout who scanned the horizon for signs of pilchard shoals. When a shoal was spotted, the huer would shout out to the fishermen below, who would then set out to sea to catch the fish.
The hut itself is a small, square building made of stone, with a sloping roof and a chimney. It is situated on top of Towan Head, a rocky promontory that offers spectacular views of the surrounding coastline. From the hut, visitors can see miles of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
One of the best times to visit Huer's Hut is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. The hut is open to visitors from April to October, and admission is free. Inside the hut, there are displays of historical fishing equipment and photographs that provide a fascinating insight into the life of the fishermen who once worked here.
The area around Huer's Hut is also popular with hikers and walkers. There are several walking trails that wind their way along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the rugged landscape. One of the most popular trails is the South West Coast Path, which runs for 630 miles along the entire length of the Cornish coastline.
For those who want to explore the sea, there are also plenty of opportunities for water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Newquay is known for its excellent surf conditions, and there are several surf schools in the town that offer lessons and equipment rental.
In summary, Huer's Hut is a fascinating historical landmark that offers tourists a unique glimpse into the fishing heritage of Cornwall. With its stunning views, interesting exhibits, and surrounding outdoor activities, it's a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Newquay.
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Things to do nearby
If you're planning a visit to Huer's Hut in Cornwall, you're in for a treat! This historic lookout tower perched atop the cliffs of Newquay offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline. But there's more to do in the area than just admire the view from Huer's Hut. Here are some suggestions for places to visit and things to do nearby, from a tourist perspective.
1. Fistral Beach: Just a short walk from Huer's Hut is Fistral Beach, one of the most popular surfing spots in the UK. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time surfer, Fistral Beach is a great place to catch some waves or just soak up the sun.
2. Newquay Harbour: If you're interested in fishing, take a stroll down to Newquay Harbour, where you can watch the local fishermen bring in their catch of the day. There are also plenty of boat tours available if you want to explore the coastline from the water.
3. Blue Reef Aquarium: For a family-friendly activity, check out the Blue Reef Aquarium. This attraction features a variety of marine life, from sharks and stingrays to seahorses and jellyfish. There's even a "tropical ocean" exhibit where you can see colorful fish and coral.
4. South West Coast Path: If you're up for a hike, the South West Coast Path runs right past Huer's Hut. This trail stretches for 630 miles along the coastline of England's southwest peninsula, offering breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
5. Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park: If you're looking for a more leisurely activity, head over to Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park. This beautiful park features a boating lake, miniature railway, and an adventure playground, as well as a café and picnic area.
6. Lusty Glaze Beach: Just a short drive from Huer's Hut is Lusty Glaze Beach, another great spot for surfing and swimming. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, creating a secluded and picturesque setting.
7. Trerice House: If you're interested in history, take a trip to Trerice House. This Elizabethan manor house dates back to the 16th century and features beautiful gardens and a collection of antique furniture and artwork.
8. Newquay Zoo: For animal lovers, Newquay Zoo is a must-visit. This attraction features a wide variety of animals, from big cats and primates to birds and reptiles. There are also plenty of educational exhibits and interactive experiences.
Whether you're a beach bum, a nature lover, or a history buff, there's plenty to do near Huer's Hut. So why not make the most of your trip to Cornwall and explore all that this beautiful area has to offer?