Taking a Dip in one of Lady Basset’s Baths
History of Lady Basset’s Baths
The baths at Portreath were cut into the cliffs at Portreath in 1782 by William Harry for the Basset family of Tehidy Park in Illogan:
Here, in 1782, Lord de Dunstanville (1757-1835) paid William Harry, the estate mason, ‘for building a house at Portreath for a Bathing Machine’. At the same period, William Harry cut six baths in nearby rock surfaces, and in the cliff face for the pleasure of Lord de Dunstanville’s wife Susannah and his young daughter Frances (1781 – 1855) (Tehidy Accounts).
Cornish Archaeology no. 36, 1997 | Rock-cut baths in Cornwall | M Tangye
Although the above article references 6 baths, we’ve seen 8 small baths plus Portreath’s much later (and larger) “Mermaid Pool” so it’s likely that some were later additions. In 1810 it seems the family was still enjoying their salt-water baths when John Farrington wrote:
Bathing in Poetic Places
September 16. — At Eleven I went to Illogan Church one mile distant in the carriage with Lady de Dunstanville. The two Misses Bassett had gone before in order to inspect a Sunday School established by the Hon : Miss Bassett. — After Divine Service I went with the Ladies to Portreath where they have a Cottage delightfully situated under rocks near the sea side. Here they have everything for a breakfast or a repast, with books to amuse those who would read & admire the prospect. Near this place in Baths formed in the rocks Miss Bassett frequently comes to bathe, & this in such scenery as would be quite poetical. Here we had some refreshment then walked to the top of the Hill above the Cottage where we were taken up by the Carriage and proceeded home.
Joseph Farington – The Farington Diary 1810
How do you get to Lady Basset’s Baths?
Head to Portreath Beach at low tide, most of the baths are found in the west corner of Portreath beach, known as ‘Amey’s Side’. You’ll need to look high and low (and even inside a sea cave to find them all. If you want to make it easier check-out the thorough article on A Cornish Journey Blog
When is the best time to visit Lady Basset’s Baths?
Try to get to Portreath around low tide to see all the baths, if you are planning to get in them all you may want to come on a warm day, although my first dip here was in January!
Are Lady Basset’s Baths dog friendly?
Some of the baths are too high for dogs to easily access but the beach at Portreath is dog friendly most of the year, except 1st July to 31st August / 10am to 6pm.
Are Lady Basset’s Baths suitable for small children?
A few of the baths are quite high to climb up to, but kids will love the beach at Portreath and the larger mermaid pool at the other side of the beach is great for smaller kids.
Are there any food and drink options nearby?
Portreath Beach is just on the edge of the town so there’s a good selection of seaside cafes, bars, pubs and restaurants within a few minute’s walk including:
- The Hub Portreath
- The Atlantic Cafe Bar
- The Terrace Restaurant
- Tideline Cafe
- Tung Sing Cantonese Restaurant
- Portreath Bakery
- The Waterfront Inn
- Portreath Arms Hotel
What else is there to do near Lady Basset’s Baths?
Portreath is a popular location with visitors with all sorts of activities and attractions nearby. Check out our page on everything you need to know about Portreath.
