Upton Towans
Upton Towans is a dune and grassland area in Cornwall north of Hayle with about 3 miles of beach on the east side of St Ives Bay. The site has wide sandy areas, soft dunes covered with wild grasses and shrubs, and natural features shaped by wind and sea.
The site was once home to the National Explosives Works, where dynamite was manufactured in the early 20th century, including work done by women factory workers. Industrial remnants like carts and pipes remain scattered across the dunes, now reclaimed by nature.
The name 'Towans' comes from the Cornish language and refers to the sand dunes that have shaped coastal life for generations. The dunes are used today as a natural space where locals and visitors come to walk, relax, and connect with the landscape.
The location is easily reached by car or public transport from nearby towns like Hayle, with parking available close to the beach. The walking route through the dunes is moderate in difficulty and requires sturdy footwear due to uneven ground; bring drinking water as there are no sources along the way.
Adders, a native snake species, can sometimes be spotted sunbathing on the warm sand during summer months, offering a rare wildlife encounter. This hidden natural feature makes exploration of the dunes an unexpectedly rich experience for those paying attention.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
