Crantock

Crantock is a village and civil parish in Cornwall, England, located on the north coast about three miles north of Newquay. It sits along the River Gannel near its estuary and lies at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The parish includes Crantock Beach and the surrounding dunes, which are part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The name Crantock derives from St Carantoc, a 6th-century saint associated with the area. The parish church of St Carantoc is a notable landmark and dates to the medieval period. Historically, the village has roots in farming and coastal activity, with broader regional links to fishing and trade.

Geographically, the Gannel estuary forms a tidal habitat that supports wildlife and birdlife, while Crantock Beach offers a long stretch of sandy shore facing the Atlantic. The beach is popular for walking, swimming, and surfing when conditions permit, and the coastal environment attracts visitors and seasonal recreation.

Governance is provided by Crantock Parish Council within Cornwall Council. The community supports local facilities and services, with tourism playing a significant role in the local economy, particularly during the summer months.

Access to Crantock is primarily by road from Newquay, with bus services connecting the village to Newquay and surrounding areas. The nearest railway access is in Newquay. The combination of coastal scenery, natural habitats, and historic landmarks makes Crantock a noted among coastal towns and villages in Cornwall.