Hear fantastic tales of witchery and marvel at this swaying boulder, which was famously removed by a naval fleet as a prank.
Logan Rock is a large stone perched atop a headland cliff. Balanced precariously on the rock peak, this boulder used to sway, though never shift, when touched gently. Find out why the boulder no longer rocks like it used to and discover the extraordinary scenery in this wild part of Cornwall.
The rock was known in Cornish as Men Omborth, which translates in English to balanced stone. Read acclaimed author Virginia Woolf’s writings about rocking the stone in her childhood.
Gaze up at the fascinating rock that rests atop the Teryn Dinas cliffs. Clamber carefully over the adjoining stones to get close to the fabled rock and enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding rugged coastline.
Learn about the history of this granite boulder, which is mentioned in the poet William Mason’s Caractacus. The rock has long been associated with tales of witchcraft and stands on the site of what was once an Iron Age cliff-top fort.
The most famous story associated with the rock, however, is the one involving Lieutenant Hugh Goldsmith and his navy crew, who dislodged the stone in 1824 to prove their might. Several months later, due to local unrest, a team worked together to reposition the rock to its rightful place. Look closely to see the anchor holes that were used to haul it back up. The stone no longer rocks as dramatically as it once did, but it can still be moved.
Head to the Logan Rock Public House to view the original receipt Lieutenant Goldsmith had to pay to make amends. This area features a few other intriguing rock formations, including the small rock islands of Horrace, Seghy and Great Goular.
Logan Rock is on the coast near the village of Treen in southwestern Cornwall. Drive southeast for 4 miles (6 kilometres) from Land’s End to reach the natural structure, which can be found beside Porthcurno Beach and Pedn Vounder Beach. Leave the car at Logan’s Rock Inn then follow signs for Logan Rock.
