Lavernock Point, South Wales

 

 

 

Lavernock beach was a favourite day out in the 1960s and 70s, via St Mary's Well Bay.  Parking in a private car park alongside a caravan park and using precipitice steps.  Rock pools and seaweed surround areas of beach, making it a safe and interesting place for children at low tide, (usual parental supervision recommended).   Rapid underwater currents can make bathing in the sea quite dangerous.  This access has long been denied to the public, but recently we followed signs to Lavernock Point.  

A single track lane leads to a rather disappointing car park for very few cars.  Parking was easy in December, but could prove difficult in high summer, especially with such a narrow access lane.  The coastal path is easily followed eastwards with spectacular views and quite difficult access to the beach, used by anglers.

Near the car park is another beach access, along a small valley, but is quite steep and requires 'sensible footwear.'

The Severn and Bristol Channel converge at this point which was chosen by Marconi, an Italian radio enthusiast.   In 1807 he made the first radio transmission across water from nearby Flat Holm Island to a receiving station at Lavernock Point.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/southeastwales/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_7847000/7847738.stm

We are looking forward to revisiting this coastal path in dryer weather.  The views along the coast must be fantastic, but in winter the path is more of a stream interspersed with boggy areas.  Not ideal for the jogger that passed, wearing white socks and trainers.

A tantalising stone tower stands on the cliff edge.  Inside, now derelict, it contains Penstock control panels and pumps, possibly for excess water or sewage.  A link below shows pictures of inside.




http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lavernock

http://www.blackmountainsite.co.uk/urban-exploration/lavernock-watchtower/