Helford River - Cornwall’s undiscovered gem


The Helford River remains somewhat an undiscovered gem in Cornwall for visitors.


This historic area lays a few miles south of Falmouth, heading towards the Lizard peninsula.


The Helford River represents the most southerly estuary in Britain, consisting of 27 miles of coastline from the coastal limits of Rosemullion and Nare Head to Gweek.


It is this extensive coastline that provides the distinct character of the area, as the river twists around numerous ancient wooded creeks that can feel wonderfully untouched by the world.


Indeed, it is one of these inlets that inspired Daphne Du Mauriers book Frenchman’s Creek. The area has an interesting history, forming through the drowning of the river valley during the retreat of the last glaciers.


It’s sheltered position and abundant resources supported small hamlets,


The Golden Lion Inn & Lakeside Restaurant


Stithians Lake, TR16 6NW www.golden-lion-inn.co.uk Tel: 01209 860332


❖Great Food in a Lovely Location


❖Open all year round ❖Award-winning Real Ales ❖Extensive Wine List ❖Beautiful Garden & Shelter


❖Three real log fires ❖Light and airy restaurant


❖Traditional Cornish Bar Area


❖Free Wi-Fi Access ❖Dogs welcome in Bar Area


Award-winning inn has so much to offer


The Golden Lion Inn & Lakeside Restaurant is situated on the shores of Stithians Lake, a little- known but beautiful reservoir set in the hills between Redruth, Helston, and Falmouth.


Currently St.Austell Brewery’s ‘Wine House of The Year’, The Golden Lion has also received four Cornwall Tourism Awards making it the most consistent Pub of the Year finalist since the awards began in 2002.


The Golden Lion offers a warm and comfortable setting in which to enjoy some of the best food the county has to offer.


SILVER PUB OF THE YEAR


An extensive menu offers interesting dishes prepared from the best local produce, complemented by a


GOLD PUB OF THE YEAR


many which maintain their character today.


Fishing has always played an important role on the river, and still supports a strong fleet that work all seasons, and most weathers.


Fresh local crab is sold at Gear Farm shop in St. Martin (also home to amazing organic pasties), and at a friendly café adjacent to Helford village car park (another great place to start many walks).


The historical presence of fishing on the river can be seen in places such as Durgan where old fish cellars can be seen and boats were once made.


Off the shores of Durgan also sits the


wonderful eelgrass, home to many juvenile marine species and a fantastic place to snorkel.


Three gardens reside on the river; Carwinion, Trebah, and the National Trust gardens of Glendurgan all make wonderful starting points to explore.


Anyone visiting the Helford River will not be short of things to do.


The extensive coastline offers numerous footpath walks that can carry you from the exposed headlands around Prisk Cove and St. Anthony to the ancient wooded creeks.


A foot ferry also carries passengers from the north Helford Passage to the south Helford Village.


At Helford Passage boat hire is available to thoroughly explore the waters, and good food can be found adjacent to the water at the Ferryboat Inn.


A kayak will provide the means to explore to the tips of many of the creeks.


The area is also very popular for sailors, with visitor moorings available in some places of the river (www.helfordrivermoorings.co.uk)


Events for locals and visitors are regularly run around the river by the Helford Marine Conservation (www.helfordmarineconservation .co.uk)


If people wished to extend their stay to several days, holiday accommodation is available around the river, along with numerous camp sites (e.g. in St. Martin), and the historical Trelowarren estate (Mawgan).


Rhiannon Pipkin (Helford Marine Conservation Group)


comprehensive wine list and award winning real ales.


Choose between dining in the traditional bar beside a real log fire, or in the light and spacious restaurant overlooking the lake and gardens where you can also dine alfresco.


Full table service is provided throughout by friendly and attentive staff.


BRONZE PUB OF THE YEAR


10 Cornish Visitor Guide - autumn & winter 2011-2012 www.cornish-visitor.co.uk


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