Origins: Once part of Devon until 1844, Kingsand and its twin village Cawsand have a heritage steeped in fishing and smuggling—evident in former stone fish cellars and sealed tunnels along the coast
Defensive past: From the 1600s to Napoleonic Wars, fortifications like Cawsand Fort and other batteries protected the bay; these still hint at the area's strategic importance
Architecture: Quaint pastel facades line narrow streets leading to small beaches like Kingsand Beach and The Cleave, with a notable 1911 clock tower community institute commemorating King George V
Community traditions: Vibrant events like the Black Prince Procession on May Day (flower-decorated boat parade with morris dancing and town-crier contests) mark local culture. The Rame Peninsula Male Voice Choir, founded in Kingsand in 1976, received national honors
Typical Food
Embrace the best of Cornish cuisine, available locally:
Cornish pasty – Traditional meat-and-veg pastry, made to protect miners and serve as a hearty meal
Seafood:
Dressed crab: fresh crab meat, brown bread, salted butter – a local treasure
Stargazy pie: pilchards peek skyward—a festive dish popular on Tom Bawcock’s Eve
Other treats:
Hevva cake, saffron buns, Cornish splits, hog’s pudding and local cheeses like Yarg feature in regional fare
Local eating spots:
The Rising Sun pub in Kingsand offers classic dishes with fresh local seafood
Activities & Attractions
On Land
Wander the South West Coast Path with scenic cliffside views.
Explore heritage sites: clock tower, former St?Paul’s Church (now Maker-with-Rame community hall)
Discover 18th–19th?c coastal defenses: restored forts, batteries, redoubts
On & In the Water
Swim and rock-pool at Kingsand Beach, Girt Beach, Sandways, or nearby Whitsand Bay
Kayaking, surfing, sailing, gig rowing, and guided boat cruises from nearby Cawsand or Plymouth
Family & Nearby
Visit Mount Edgcumbe Country Park for woodlands, gardens, and ferry hop to Plymouth
Try golf, horse riding, fishing charters, and local farm attractions a short drive away .
Summary
Kingsand is a picturesque fishing village richly layered in history—from smuggling lore and coastal defences to proud local traditions. Its eateries serve up Cornish staples (from pasties and crabs to stargazy pie), and its shores invite beachgoing, water sports, and coastal walks. With cultural festivals and the nearby wilderness of Mount Edgcumbe, it’s a delightful destination for both relaxation and exploration.