There’s a place along the southern coast of England that’s perhaps not immediately obvious to the casual traveller. You don’t simply follow a road to the shore to reach it. Instead, you begin by stepping into a tunnel carved into the cliffs, a passage far removed from the southwest's busy beaches and promenades.
This legend-filled tunnel isn’t just a route; it’s an experience — a narrow, low-lit corridor smugglers are said to have created initially as a secret passageway to transport their contraband inland. As you walk deeper into the tunnel, the cool air and dim light create a sense of anticipation. You can hear the distant rumble of the sea, hinting at what lies ahead, but the tunnel keeps its secret a little longer.
And then, finally, you emerge. This is Ness Cove, a secluded beach in Devon that can only be accessed through Smugglers Tunnel. Framed by high cliffs, this quiet cove is a world away from the crowded spots further along the coast and is full of local legends.
The journey to Ness Cove begins with the Smugglers Tunnel, a solidly bricked passageway wide enough for two people to walk side-by-side. This isn’t your typical beach access; the tunnel is a big part of what makes Ness Cove unique. Legend has it that in the 18th century, local smugglers carved out this tunnel as a secret route to transport contraband like brandy and tobacco.
With the coastline’s rugged cliffs providing natural cover, the tunnel offered a discreet way to move goods inland, .