Cape Cornwall: National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week

Name: Cape Cornwall: National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week
Start: 2026-07-25T11:00:00+01:00
End: 2026-07-25T13:00:00+01:00
Location: Cape Cornwall

Schedule

Sat Jul 25 2026 at 11:00 am to 01:00 pm

UTC+01:00

Location

Cape Cornwall | Penzance, EN

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 Saturday 25th July to Sunday 2nd August in 202, 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 25th July 2026
Location: Cape Cornwall, St Just. Please park at the National Trust Car Park. Meet the Seaquest Southwest team by the chimney stack on top of the hill. They will be wearing hi-vis jackets and have a Cornwall Wildlife Trust flag.
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.
Participants should park at National Trust Cape Cornwall car park, a pay-and-display facility located approximately 5-10 minutes from the survey site at the chimney stack. The walk from the car park involves uneven and steep terrain, including coastal paths with loose gravel, so wearing sturdy footwear is highly recommended. Please note that the terrain may be difficult for those with mobility issues, as it includes rocky and narrow sections.
The car park surface is generally flat but consists of gravel and dirt, which may be slightly uneven in places. Free toilets are available near cafe building. Parking fees can be paid by machine situated in the car park. National Trust members have free car parking.
While there are no designated quiet spaces or specific accessibility signage at this event, the South West Coast Path offers several peaceful spots where individuals can rest and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.