Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands
Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands
Highlight • Monument
Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands
Hiking
4.8
(59)
The Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands is a poignant historical landmark situated on the beautiful coast of West Cornwall, England. Standing at an elevation of approximately 11 meters above sea level, this grey stone memorial commemorates a dramatic World War II incident involving a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Short Sunderland flying boat. It is located on "the green" adjacent to the golden sands of Praa Sands beach, nestled between the towns of Helston and Penzance, offering a…
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Tips
April 29, 2023
Hiking
•August 10, 2019
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August 27, 2021
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands
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Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
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Saturday 21 March
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Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial walk at Praa Sands suitable for young children?
Yes, the memorial itself is easily accessible on 'the green' adjacent to Praa Sands beach, just a short stroll down from Pengersick Lane. The beach is mile-long, sandy, and ideal for families with young children, offering safe paddling and sandcastle building opportunities. The walk to the memorial is generally flat and short once you are near the beach area.
How long does it typically take to visit the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial with a family?
Visiting the memorial itself is a brief, reflective experience, perhaps 10-15 minutes. However, most families combine this with time on the beautiful Praa Sands beach. You could easily spend a few hours or even a full day enjoying the sand, sea, and nearby facilities, making it a comprehensive family outing.
What are the parking options for the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands?
There is a car park conveniently located close to Praa Sands beach, which serves visitors to both the memorial and the beach. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak season or sunny weather, as the car park can fill up quickly.
Are there public restrooms near the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands?
Yes, Praa Sands is a well-equipped tourist area. You can typically find public restroom facilities near the main beach area, close to the car park and other amenities like cafes and shops.
Are there any easy family walks near Praa Sands that include the memorial?
Absolutely. The memorial is situated right on 'the green' at Praa Sands beach, making it a natural starting or ending point for easy family walks. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the mile-long sandy beach or take a short, accessible section of the South West Coast Path that offers stunning views without significant elevation changes.
Is the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands wheelchair friendly?
The memorial itself is located on a grassy area adjacent to the beach, which may present some challenges for wheelchairs depending on ground conditions. Access to the general beach area from the car park is generally manageable, but the sandy terrain of the beach itself is not typically wheelchair-friendly. It's best to assess the specific conditions upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to visit the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial with kids?
While the memorial can be visited year-round, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are generally best for families with kids. This allows for maximum enjoyment of the beach for swimming, paddling, and sandcastle building, complementing the historical visit. However, the coastal paths offer invigorating walks even in cooler seasons.
What should we bring for a family walk to Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial Praa Sands in autumn?
For an autumn visit, layers of clothing are recommended as coastal weather can change quickly. Bring waterproof jackets, sturdy walking shoes for coastal paths, and perhaps a hat and gloves. Don't forget snacks, drinks, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Even in autumn, sunscreen can be useful on bright days.
Are dogs allowed on Praa Sands beach near the memorial?
Praa Sands beach typically has a seasonal dog ban in place during the busier summer months. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival for the most current regulations regarding dog access to the beach.
What cafes and pubs are near the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial at Praa Sands?
The village of Praa Sands offers several amenities conveniently located near the memorial and beach. You'll find cafes for refreshments and light meals, as well as a pub where you can enjoy a more substantial meal or a drink. These facilities make it easy to extend your visit.
Are there any circular walks starting at Praa Sands that include the Sunderland Flying Boat Memorial?
Yes, Praa Sands is an excellent starting point for various walks, including sections of the South West Coast Path. You can easily incorporate a visit to the memorial into a circular route that explores the coastal scenery towards either Porthleven or Marazion, offering diverse terrain and stunning views. Hikers can find detailed routes using komoot's route planner.
What wildlife might we spot during a walk near Praa Sands and the memorial?
The coastal environment around Praa Sands is rich in wildlife. Along the South West Coast Path, you might spot various seabirds, including gulls, cormorants, and perhaps even choughs. Keep an eye out for seals in the waters offshore, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins. The dunes and coastal vegetation also support a range of insects and smaller birds.