🚗 Chyvarloe National Trust Car Park – Complete Helston TR12 7PY Guide
Free coastal parking at Chyvarloe – explore hidden coves & coastal trails.
🚗 Type: Surface Free Public Car Park (Operated by the National Trust)
🕒 Open: Dawn to dusk (approx. 6:30 am–8 pm in summer; 8 am–4 pm in winter)
🌟 Rating: 4.8 / 5 (visitor feedback)
💰 Pricing & Permits
Cost: Free (National Trust membership or day pass not required)
Enforcement: Occasional ranger patrols; please vacate promptly when closing time nears
📊 Capacity & Physical Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Spaces | ~20 marked bays |
| Surface | Firm, compacted gravel |
| Lighting | None (daylight access only) |
| Security | Occasional ranger patrols; no CCTV |
| Height Restriction | None |
| Entry/Exit | Unbarriered; narrow single-lane access road |
♿ Accessibility
Accessible Bays: 2 bays closest to the path entrance
Step-Free Access: Firm path to the cliff-top viewpoints; steeper sections may require assistance
Drop-Off Point: Small lay-by beside the main gate for loading/unloading
🔌 EV Infrastructure
On-Site Chargers: None
Nearest Public Chargers:
2 × 7 kW Pod Point at Helston Tesco (8 min drive)
4 × 22 kW Ubitricity lamppost chargers on Meneage Street (10 min drive)
📅 Peak Times & Occupancy
| Timeframe | Occupancy | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays 10 am–2 pm | 40 % | Local dog-walkers & walkers |
| Weekends 11 am–4 pm | 100 % | Tourists & family groups |
| Summer Evenings | 60 % | Sunset photographers |
Pro Tip: Arrive before 11 am on weekends to secure bays nearest the coastal path.
🚶 Walkability Score
| Destination | Walk Time | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal Path Trailhead | 1 min | Direct access to Lizard Peninsula path |
| Hidden Beach Cove | 5 min | Secluded swimming & rock-pooling |
| Mullion Cove Café (via car) | 8 min | Refreshments & toilets |
| Poldark Mine Visitor Centre | 12 min | Heritage exhibits & picnic area |
🛒 Nearby Amenities
Public Toilets: None on-site (nearest at Mullion Cove)
Picnic Facilities: Wooden bench seating by the car park
Refreshments: Seasonal NT kiosk at Chyvarloe House (weekends Apr–Sep)
🅿️ Alternative Parking Comparison
| Site | Distance | Cost | Max Stay | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullion Cove Car Park | 3 min | £4 all day | 24 h | Toilets & café |
| Poldark Mine NT Car Park | 5 min | Free | N/A | Heritage centre & larger capacity |
| Helston Tesco Surface Lot | 8 min | Free 2 h | 2 h | EV charging & grocery tie-in |
⚠️ Important Notices
Seasonal Closing: Gates close promptly at dusk—no overnight parking.
Coastal Conditions: Path edges can be slippery—stay on marked trails.
Maintenance: Occasional grading of gravel surface in winter months.
📌 Expert Tips
Wildflower Season: Late spring brings coastal orchids—visit early morning.
Beach Access: Carry gear via the lay-by to avoid narrow lanes.
NT Membership: While not required for parking, membership supports reserve upkeep.
🔮 Future Developments
2026: NT plan to add an additional accessible bay and improve trail signage.
2027: Proposal for solar-powered interpretive kiosk with live tide times.
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