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, 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.helfordmarine conservation .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)


Cornwall at War Museum


The Davidstow Airfield & Cornwall at War Museum is situated on the WW11 RAF Davidstow Moor next to the cheese factory.


Dedicated to all three armed services in Cornwall, from WW1 till today. Also Women and the Home Front in WW11.


Buildings, original and later, house exhibitions, dioramas, weapons, uniforms and equipment.


Davidstow Creamery


Visitor Centre


Three Services Museum on


WWII airfield Davidstow, PL32 9YF


Mobile: 07799 194 918 www.cornwallatwarmuseum.co.uk


DAVIDSTOW AIRFIELD AND CORNWALL


AT WAR MUSEUM


Adult £4. Concession £3. Family £10 (2 adults and 3 children)


Open: 10am-5pm / last admission 4pm Easter till November Closed Sunday, Monday & Tuesday Open every day in July, August, September plus school and Bank Holidays


Airfield tours available - see article 44 Cornish Visitor Guide - spring / summer 2013 www.cornish-visitor.co.uk


Privately funded and run by unpaid volunteers the museum is a labour of love.


Allow two hours for full exploration. One and a half hour Airfield Tours on Thursday afternoons in July / August - booking essential for airfield tour - please phone 07799 1949 18.


Guided tour in Marlene. Allow half day including museum. Snacks available in the NAAFI.


Various outside exhibits include our Fairey Gannet, tracked Rapier and radio controlled targets. Suitable for the whole family. Special arrangements for schools


Davidstow Moor was a 1950s Formula 1 circuit.


Find us off the A39, one mile NE of Camelford. Follow brown signs.


Dairy Crest has recently opened a visitor centre within the museum, with displays and film depicting the Davidstow cheese factory from 1950 to the present day.


Visit the Dairy Crest Visitor Centre within the admision cost of Davidstow at War museum.


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