DAYS OUT BY TRAIN ON THE CORNISH MAINLINE Content

Plymouth 4 Attraction Icons

Saltash 8 Adrenalin

Animal Park St Germans 14 Beach Menhiot 18 Boat trip 20 Castle 23 Parkway Bodmin Parkway Cycling Liskeard St Germans Food Market Lostwithiel 26 Par Garden Plymouth Par 27 St Ives Museum St Austell 30 Shopping 39 Falmouth Truro Theatre/Cinema

Redruth 44

Camborne 48

Hayle 52

© 2015 RailHoliday 57 St Erth www.railholiday.co.uk printing info: printing house, city Penzance 60 Layout & illustrations: Jenny Sjödin information, visit: Plymouth City Museum www.barbicanwaterfront.com and and Art Gallery www.experiencesuttonharbour.co.uk Wet weather rating: How to get there: A 10 min walk from the Plymouth train station. Follow the signs to the city The waterfront city Plymouth has a rich history and alluring surroundings. National Marine Aquarium centre. Turn left after the first underpass Take a stroll along the hugely popular Barbican and Sutton Harbour along Wet weather rating: and continue past Plymouth University. the waterfront or go shopping in the delightful independent shops. How to get there: A 25 min walk from the Follow the road around to the left at the train station. Follow the directions to the roundabout and the Museum and Gallery Barbican; the bridge to the Aquarium is are opposite the pedestrian crossing. opposite the Mayflower Steps. Plymouth is a waterfront city situated Because of the city’s location, views are Plymouth’s main Museum and Art between the River Plym to the east and spectacular and ideal for countryside The National Marine Aquarium is the Gallery is free and shows the city’s natural the to the west which both walks. For more information, visit: largest aquarium in Britain and functions history, art and human history collec- flow into the natural harbour of Plymouth www.visitplymouth.co.uk as a charity committed to promoting tions. It is spread over two floors and Sound. The sea has played a prominent an understanding of the sea through presents nine permanent galleries. For role in the city’s history. During the conservation, research and programs of more information, visit: Industrial Revolution, Plymouth grew Barbican and Sutton Harbour education. For information on prices and www.plymouth.gov.uk/museums as a commercial shipping port while the Wet weather rating: opening hours, visit: neighboring town of Devonport became How to get there: A 20 min walk from www.national-aquarium.co.uk an important shipbuilding and dockyard Plymouth Train Station. Walk through Plymouth Hoe town. Throughout World War II the the city centre, crossing Royal Parade and Wet weather rating: city was targeted and partially destroyed Princes Street. Turn left at Notte Street, Royal William Yard How to get there: A 20 min walk from the because of its naval importance and the then right down Southside Street, past Wet weather rating: train station. Follow the directions to the city centre was completely rebuilt as a the Plymouth Gin Distillery and to the How to get there: Catch the 34 or 34a Barbican, but instead of turning left at consequence. Barbican. bus from Royal Parade or take the Royal Notte Street, continue straight ahead. William Ferry from Barbican Landing Stage. The Barbican area with its cobbled streets, The historic Barbican and Sutton Har- Plymouth Hoe offers breathtaking views charming harbour and many galleries, bour are at the heart of the city’s heritage. Royal William Yard is considered one of across Plymouth Sound. The iconic bars, cafés and restaurants gives the water- The area around Barbican has many of the most important groups of histo- Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse is open to the front a metropolitan feel. The city offers the oldest buildings in the city and char- ric military buildings in Britain. Visit public all-year-round and presents specta- a number of historic attractions like Ply- ming cobbled streets filled with galleries, resident artist Martin Bush’s Gallery or cular views. During the summer months, mouth Hoe, where Sir Francis Drake play- boutique shops, cafés and restaurants. explore the newly opened tunnel between you can take a plunge in the renowned ed his last game of bowls before engaging Sutton Harbour is located right at the Royal William Yard and Devils Point – Art Deco Tinside Lido or visit The Royal with the Spanish Armada, and the Royal centre of Plymouth’s waterfront with the offering spectacular views of Plymouth Citadel with guided tours on Tuesdays William Yard, one of the most important enchanting harbour and striking marina. Sound and Drakes Island. For more infor- and Thursdays. For more information, groups of military buildings in Britain. To see upcoming events and for further mation, visit: www.royalwilliamyard.org visit: www.plymouthhoewaterfront.com

4 5 Saltash Situated on the River Tamar surrounded by the Tamar Valley, Saltash is a perfect location for exploring the countryside. This riverside town will charm you with its thriving high street and astonishing Royal Albert Bridge.

Saltash is a very old town located by the activities on the river pop into Ashtorre river which came to prominence because Rock have a cup of tea and sit on their the relative narrowness of the river made waterside balcony. Alternatively visit it an obvious crossing point. The town ‘Just Be’ a coffee and wine bar to soak up is known as the ’Gateway to ’ the atmosphere. The colourfully painted since it connects Cornwall to Devon by ‘Union Inn’ pub on the riverfront with rail, road and river. Travellers arriving by its Union Jack painted facade and murals train will cross the famous Royal Albert is one of the town’s landmarks, as is the Bridge, engineered by Isambard Kingdom Cornish Cross set just back from the Ta- Brunel and completed in 1859. To see mar Bridge next to Elwell woods. All of this bridge in more detail and a different this is a short walk from the train station perspective of the River Tamar take the and main shopping high street in the free pedestrian walkway along the Tamar heart of the town supporting a number road bridge for a fascinating and breath- of independent shops, high street names, taking walk. coffee shops and cafes. For more informa- tion, visit: www.saltash.gov.uk Saltash presents many beautiful views across the river and canoeing trips on the Tamar are popular. The town has a local Churchtown Farm Heritage Trail with an Information Cen- Community Nature Reserve tre in the Guildhall, a Leisure Centre and Wet weather rating: a museum with an ever changing display. How to get there: Approx. 20 min, 1 mile, The Waterside Conservation Area is walk from Saltash Train Station. The home to a colony of mute swans and reserve is on Wearde Road, opposite the serves as a popular place for water vehicle entrance to Saltash.net secondary sport enthusiasts. To watch the various school. Entrance is FREE.

6 View of Saltash from Royal Albert Bridge 7 One mile south of Saltash in a pictu- Want to grocery shop resque setting between the Tamar and like in the old days? Lynher estuaries, is the beautiful Chur- chtown Farm Community Nature Reser- Elliotts Grocery Store, on Lower ve. The site falls within the Tamar Valley Fore Street, is a museum shop St Germans Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that presents a time capsule Take a stroll in the peaceful and charming village St Germans and its and is owned and managed by Cornwall of days gone by when perso- surroundings, visit Port Eliot for a guided tour of the house or wander Wildlife Trust. nal service was key. Admire freely in the magnificent gardens. the vintage packaging and Characteristic wildlife to be seen are the experience the atmosphere of goldfinch and the redshank, a medium this old grocery store, largely sized wader with distinctive orange legs. unchanged since the 1940s. St Germans is a small village in East post office and the village pub The Eliot The views over the rivers and beyond to Cornwall situated on the St Germans Ri- Arms serves Cornish ales and traditional Devonport and Plymouth are spectacu- ver, or Lynher River, as part of the Tamar food all day. lar and this reserve is a perfect place for Mary Newman’s Cottage estuary. Originally, it was a busy fishing walking in peaceful surroundings. To Wet weather rating: village in the 19th century and the quay, download a free trail leaflet, visit: How to get there: 2 min. walk from with the viaduct towering above it and www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk Saltash Train Station; cross the road brid- its sailing club, is a popular spot. St Ger- ge over the railway and head down the mans and the Lynher estuary have been hill for 50m. Mary Newman’s Cottage is designated as an Area of Outstanding on the right. Entrance is FREE. Natural Beauty and offer, in addition to the scenery, excellent opportunities for Mary Newman’s cottage is an Elizabethan walking and bird watching. cottage and garden, Grade 11 listed and managed by the Tamar Protection The village takes its name from the St Society. It is the oldest building in German’s Priory Church of St Germanus, Saltash, built around 1480 and was re- a Norman church next to the Port Eliot portedly the home of Sir Francis Drake’s Estate, home to the present Earl of St first wife, Mary Newman. The cottage is Germans. Visit the magical house and furnished with pieces from the Victoria estate during spring when it is open to and Albert Museum, giving the interior the public. an atmospheric feel, the garden is planted with plant and herbs from the 15th The old part of the village, which Century. Visitors can even wear period includes the railway station, is virtually clothing and play Elizabethan games. For unspoiled with a lot of charming old Beautiful St Germans information on opening dates and times, houses and has been made a conservation Priory Church of St Germanus visit: www.tamarprotectionsociety.org.uk area. The village has a small shop and

8 9 Menheniot The surroundings of Menheniot offers adrenalin boosting activities for the whole family.

Menheniot is the perfect destination for Kartworld offers an exhilarating family go a one day trip if you are looking for an kart racing circuit and they cater for all action-packed experience! Challenge each ages, with custom tracks and go karts for other in high speed at Kartworld or ex- toddlers, children and adults. For further perience thrilling adventures at Adrenalin information and prices visit: Quarry. Both Kartworld and Adrenalin www.kartworldcornwall.co.uk Quarry are right next to Menheniot Train Station. Because trains are not frequent at Menheniot, you can combine your Adrenalin Quarry trip with a bus ride from Plymouth or Wet weather rating: St Germans Bridge Liskeard; the stop is on the A38, a five How to get there: The entrance is beside minute walk from the station. Visit www. the station; walk uphill to reach the main Port Eliot not only have full access to the park and plymouthbus.co.uk for up to date route attractions. Wet weather rating: gardens, but also be able to get a guided information and the latest timetables. How to get there: Port Eliot is a five minu- tour of the house’s ground floor recep- The Adrenalin Quarry park is safe and te walk from St Germans train station. tion rooms including the famous Round Menheniot village is a twenty minute fun for families, thrilling for adrenalin Room which boasts a 40ft mural by walk from the station and has a medieval junkies. There are multiple attractions on Port Eliot house and estate is open to the Robert Lenkiewicz. church, pub, shop and post office. The St site as well as a play park and picnic area public during spring and early summer; Lalluwy’s Church occasionally has special overlooking the lake. The play park and visit their website for full details: Visitors can wander freely in the gardens events and concerts. To see what’s on picnic area offer stunning views over the www.porteliot.co.uk or enjoy an afternoon tea in the Port visit: www.menheniotparish.org.uk. lake where you can bring your own pic- Eliot tearoom. Don’t miss the yearly Port nic and spread out on the lawn. Or you Home to the Earl and Countess of St Eliot Festival, a four day celebration of can order a freshly made picnic or BBQ Germans, the house is one of the most music, entertainment, literature, food, Kartworld which you pick up when you get there. magical and hidden stately homes in fashion and arts and craft workshops. Wet weather rating: There is also a cafe. For further informa- dating back as far as the 5th For more information and dates, visit: How to get there: Walk 10 minutes uphill tion, opening times and prices visit: Century. During its open months, you’ll www.porteliotfestival.com to the entrance of Kart World. www.adrenalinquarry.co.uk

10 11 Liskeard Bodmin Parkway Admire the alluring Victorian architecture of the old market town If you want to experience the beautiful Cornish countryside from a 1950s Liskeard, or head to the bucket and spade seaside town of Looe steam locomotive - Bodmin Parkway is the place to go! along the picturesque Looe Valley Line.

Bodmin Parkway station, originally Cyclists – the carriage drive at Bodmin called Bodmin Road, is located in the Parkway station joins Sustrans route 3. Liskeard is an old market town located pictu¬resque Glynn Valley, beside the From here you can cycle off road all the on the southern edge of . River . From here, you can travel way to , taking in the Camel Trail The location, right next to the moor, One of many ritual sites from with the Bodmin & Wenford Railway on your way. Alternatively there are off makes it an ideal place to prepare a picnic the Bronze age at Bodmin Moor - Cornwall’s only full sizez railway still road cycle trails to enjoy in Lanhydrock and head for a walk in the beautiful operated by steam locomotives, or visit woods. surroundings. the award winning Station Café located in the former signal box adjacent to the Bodmin & Wenford Railway Liskeard made its money from Silver and main station building. Discover a journey back in time with the Tin mining in the Victorian era. One nostalgia of steam travel on the 13 mile of the greatest charms about Liskeard is The café is operated by the Bodmin & round trip from Bodmin Parkway in the that it still is very much a dynamic rural Wenford Railway and serves a variety of Glynn Valley and Boscarne Junction in town, with old fashioned outfitters, (visit Stuart House is well worth a visit, with its snacks, cream teas and homemade cakes, the Camel Valley. Enjoy the beautiful Gilberts just down from the Market late medieval grandeur and 17th Century a perfect energy boost before a walk to countryside and find the excitement of car park), cobblers antique and house Gentleman’s garden. Its most illustrious the beautiful National Trust property of experiencing the era of a Cornish branch clearance shops, lots of cafes and a sense visitor was King Charles 1, who stayed Lanhydrock. line in the 1950s. of a community that is still very much here in 1644. The house holds a perma- alive. A good place to start your explora- nent civil war exhibition in honour of With its own personal carriage drive to The line has four stations: Bodmin tion of Liskeard is in Liskeard Museum, a his stay. The lower rooms are often used Bodmin Parkway station, Lanhydrock General, Colesloggett Halt, Bodmin charming small museum with a dedicated for passing exhibitions and craft fairs and House couldn’t be better positioned for Parkway and Boscarne Junction, all with geology museum and a fascinating collec- regular concerts take place upstairs. visitors. Walk beside the river through their own enchanting surroundings to tion of photographic memorabilia. For more information on Liskeard, visit: woods then parkland to reach this grand explore. Book tickets for a luxury dining www.visitliskeard.co.uk gothic estate, with superb gardens and train, steam & cream train or take a Wanting something to do in wet weather? a network of footpaths to explore. This steam driving course. For information Liskeard Leisure Centre, on the opposite Change in Liskeard for makes a lovely family day trip as young on prices, times, special offers and to side of town to the station, has a swim- Looe and Looe Valley Line children can safely ride bikes and trikes in plan your journey, visit: ming pool, badminton courts and a gym. the surroundings. www.bodminrailway.co.uk

12 13 Lostwithiel Par Visit Lostwithiel, the antiques capital of Cornwall with its numerous Explore the surrounding countryside with clay trails antique shops and fairs. Delight in the award winning Friday farmer’s and coastlines or catch a train to the bustling surfer market or simply enjoy the peaceful countryside. paradise of Newquay.

The ancient stannary town Lostwithiel pretty village of Golant and the river Located on the south coast at the edge Check connection times with the main line has a rich history and dates all the way Fowey. This walk and more can be found of ‘clay country’, between St Austell and before planning a day trip along the Atlan- back to the 12th century. Its port served at; www.lostwithiel.org.uk/walks-and-paths the Port of Fowey, Par doesn’t really have tic Line, as they are variable: www.great- at medieval times to export Cornish much of a town centre, but it does make scenicrailways.co.uk/lines/atlantic-coast-line Tin and the town hosted Parliamentary Farmers Market a good starting point for exploring clay soldiers in the Civil War battle of 1644. Lostwithiel holds a well-known farmers’ country. The town has exten¬sive docks, Par Sands Beach Today, it is a charming, peaceful market market every other Friday, 10am - 2pm built in the 19th century, where china Backed by sand dunes, this beach is popular town with a well-known award winning at Lostwithiel Community Centre. clay is still exported. From here you with families and perfect for a seaside pic- Friday farmers’ market and numerous Indulge in locally produced food, sold can take in the surroundings on a walk nic. 15 min walk from Par Train Station. antiques shop, vintage fairs and auctions by the producers themselves. Everything between Par and Fowey along the coast Type of beach: Sandy - making Lostwithiel the antiques capital from free range meat and homemade sau- through the lush Gribbin peninsula with Lifeguard service: No of Cornwall. sages to ice cream and handmade crafts. a white striped beacon and great views of Dog Friendly: Yes the coastline. Take a walk along the tranquil surroun- dings of the river with stunning views Restormel Castle The Atlantic Coast Line starts in Par, with or discover the town’s fascinating history Wet weather rating: the final stop Newquay, a hugely popular by visiting the compact but fascinating How to get there: A 25 min walk from seaside town with 11 golden sandy Lostwithiel Museum. Yearly events are the train station. Directions at: www. beaches and some of Europe’s best surfing LostFest, Carnival week and Cornish lostwithiel.org.uk/walks-and-paths conditions. From Par a short train journey Cider Festival. For more information, on the Atlantic line takes you to the histo- Par Sands Beach stretches visit: www.lostwithiel.org.uk This 13th century circular shell-keep ric Luxylyan Valley, a beautiful woodland over half a mile long above the Fowey river valley is managed heritage site with footpaths through old A very pleasant walk from Lostwithiel is by English Heritage and open April to clay works and over the impressive Treffry to the pretty riverside village of , October. It is a great picnic spot and Viaduct. The bluebells here in late spring Change in Par for Newquay passing through along the offers stunning 360-degree views of the are magnificent. For more information, and the Atlantic Coast Line way. This takes in beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. visit www.luxulyanvalley.co.uk

14 15 St Austell The alluring landscape surrounding St Austell, defined by its china-clay heritage, makes for perfect walks and the world renowned Eden Project is a must-see when in Cornwall.

St. Austell is often referred to as the Travel to the Mediterranean without capital of the Cornish Alps. The ethereal leaving the U.K. Trek through the largest white mini-mountains, the spoil heaps manmade rainforest – steamy jungles, of the china-clay industry, lend an eerie shacks, waterfalls and plantations, with a atmosphere to the landscape. The clay was tree canopy of almost 50 metres high! First discovered in 1755 by William Cook- and foremost it’s an enormous tropical gar- worthy. Kao-Lin, an essential ingredient den housed in tropical biomes that nestle in in the manufacture of porcelain, had a crater the size of 30 football pitches, but previously only been found in northern it is also a huge outdoor gallery featuring China. Today Cornwall still exports clay world class art installations as well as them- and the Clay Trails are perfect for a day ed events, workshops, activity days, music of walking – combining the cultural concerts and an ice rink in the winter. heritage sights of the area with scenes of the extraordinary landscape. Reduced entry price if you show your rail ticket on the door. For opening hours, For more information about local attrac- more information, visit: tions and events visit: www.staustelltown. www.edenproject.com co.uk and www.visitthecornishriviera.co.uk

Kidzworld The Eden Project Wet weather rating: Wet weather rating: Great for families with young children How to get there: Take the bus from St How to get there: It is a 15-25 min bus ride Austell Station or use the Clay Trail walks from St Austell. Take a 524 or 525 bus in and combine it with a visit to Wheal the direction of Par along the main road Martyn or a walk to Par. and get off at Cornish Market World.

16 St Austell surreal landscape, Baal Pit 17 Kidzworld is an award winning play cen- animals: piglets, lambs, chickens, ducks tre providing over 20,000 square feet of and geese. For more information and family fun. The majority of the areas are upcoming events, visit: www.heligan.com undercover, making this a perfect place to visit even on rainy days. Most of their Truro attractions have no height restrictions on Indulge in an all-day shopping frenzy in Cornwall’s bubbly retail equipment so adults can join in too! Wet weather rating: centre, take pleasure in local flea markets or simply wander the For details about prices and opening How to get there: Take the bus from St Georgian streets of Truro. times, visit: www.kidzworldcornwall.co.uk Austell Station or use the Clay Trail walks.

Wheal Martyn offers 26 acres of wood- St Austell Brewery land walks, nature trails, Cornwall’s lar- Truro is the retail centre of Cornwall with from the train station; follow the road Wet weather rating: gest working water wheel, fully preserved countless stores and independent shops down the hill and head towards the city How to get there: The Brewery is a short Victorian china clay works machinery to suit any need. It also offers a wide centre. 5-minute walk uphill from St Austell and equipment exhibitions. It also houses range of art galleries, the Royal Cornwall Train Station. vintage commercial vehicles and locomo- Museum and the Plaza cinema hosting Visit the Royal Cornwall Museum to find tives as well as a children’s woodland play many regional premieres, from leading out more about Cornwall and its history Explore St Austell Brewery’s museum area and a visitor platform overlooking studio pictures to locally produced works. as well as to admire a wide range of Cor- or take a guided tour of their Victorian a working china clay pit. For opening Stroll down the streets while admiring nish and British art. The natural history Brewery and its 21st Century brewing hours, admission prices and further infor- the Georgian architecture or visit the gallery shows the plants and animals of equipment before enjoying a beer tasting. mation visit: www.wheal-martyn.com magnificent Truro Cathedral – the big Cornwall and on permanent display is an For bookings and opening hours, visit: heart of the city centre. The area also exhibition of St Ives art from 1840-1940 www.staustellbrewery.co.uk offers a wide range of excellent cycling and an internationally remarkable mine- trails and a lot of events throughout the ral collection with over 1200 specimens, year. For more information visit: www. including the largest crystal of Liroconite The Lost Gardens of Heligan visittruro.org.uk ever found! Wet weather rating: How to get there: Catch a bus from St Just a short train ride from Truro is the Each gallery has child-friendly exhibits Austell Station directly to the car park. charming harbour town of Falmouth, a and the museum has a full schedule of cultural centre for art, crafts and perfor- activities, lectures and talks throughout Heligan, a mysterious estate which was mances with beautiful beaches and great the year. Children (age 18 and under) seat of the Tremayne family for over sea food restaurants. visit for free and adults pay only once for 400 years is now a thriving garden open a year’s pass. For opening hours and pri- all year round. Explore over 200 acres ces,visit: www.royalcornwallmuseum.org.uk Wheal Martyn is a China Clay grounds with a Victorian garden, romantic Museum and Country Park Royal Cornwall Museum pleasure grounds and a lush subtropical Wet weather rating: Change in Truro for Falmouth jungle or say hello to some of the estate’s How to get there: A 10 minute walk

18 19 In the mood for waves and a pleasure trip down ?

Catch a passenger ferry to the Redruth charming harbour town of Falmouth The mining heritage of Redruth defines its character and countryside with golden beaches and Maritime surroundings. Once the richest metal mining area in the UK, the town Museum or to picturesque . is now at the very heart of the World Heritage Site. Regular ferry services run from Town Quay, only a short walk from the city centre. For travel details, visit: www.falriver.co.uk Visit charming St Mawes by boat Redruth, once the urban centre of the back to the Bronze Age. The town’s archi- Cornish Mining industry, is now at the tecture is defined by this heritage, with heart of the World Heritage Site. It is set grand Victorian houses and miners’ cotta- in a dramatic valley between Carn Brea, ges. During the summer months, the Truro Cathedral Trelissick Gardens Carnmenellis and Carnmarth and this town hosts several continental markets. Wet weather rating: Wet weather rating: was the largest and richest metal mining How to get there: The Cathedral is located How to get there: Catch a bus from the area in the UK during the 19th century, At the centre of the Mineral Tramways, right in the centre of Truro, approximate- stop at Lemon Quay in the centre of town with mining heritage dating all the way there are trails which cross the Mining ly 15 min walk from the station. or take the passenger ferry from Truro, St World Heritage Site offering breathtaking Mawes or Falmouth during high season: views of the Cornish north coast, making In Truro, the Cathedral of the Bles- April – September. The information and the surroundings extraordinary for sed Virgin Mary is without doubt the ticket centre for ferries is at Garras Wharf, cycling, horse riding and walking. Catch enticing landmark defining the city’s through the underpass from Lemon Quay. a bus to the nearby picturesque coastal character with its majestic three spires. In village of Portreath to enjoy the popular fact, it is one of only three cathedrals in Trelissick Gardens is set on its own penin- sandy beach or have a full day of nature the with three spires. It sula next to the - an outstanding adventures at Feadon Farm. looks like a medieval building but is actu- location for stunning views with an 40-acre ally late-Victorian, built in 1880, where waterside garden and a 300-acre estate The remnants of the once bustling mi- they decided to adapt the classic pointed with countryside, parkland and woodland, ning industry are ever present in Redruth arches of Gothic architecture using mo- offering fantastic trails for walkers along and its surrounding landscape and there dern building techniques to create it. the riverside. are a number of Town Trails you can walk to explore the historic sites around Truro Cathedral hosts many events and The parks and walks are open all year every the centre of town. To download maps concerts throughout the year, to see what’s day. For information on prices and to see and find out more about Redruth and its on and to find out opening hours and upcoming events and activities, visit: heritage and surroundings, visit: services visit: www.trurocathedral.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/trelissick. www.visitredruth.co.uk

20 21 Feadon Farm Regal Cinema and Theatre Wet weather rating: Wet weather rating: How to get there: Catch a bus from How to get there: Head to the town Redruth to Portreath. centre. The Regal is a 3 min walk from the Train Station. Camborne If you want to get up close and perso- Best known as a centre for the former Cornish tin and copper nal with nature, Feadon Farm Wildlife One of the most popular cinemas in mining industry, Camborne is now home to Cornwall’s first free Centre is the place to go. It is a wildlife Cornwall, the Regal Cinema and cultural playground and the award winning Tuckingmill Valley Park. wonderland offering numerous activities, Theatre plays an important part of woodland experiences and beach adven- Redruth’s cultural scene. It is located at tures. You can join their Wildlife Ranger the heart of the pedestrianized Murdoch for a woodland safari, feed and cuddle Quarter and boast a stage for theatre Together with Redruth Mining District, mineral from the mines, runs through reindeers and foxes or even go for magical performances as well as numerous screens Camborne was at the heart of Cornwall’s the award winning parkland Tuckingmill night walk with their expert guide. for all the latest blockbusters. The Regal former tin mining industry and has now Valley Park, with its bespoke skate park also has a bar and restaurant with indoor been designated a World Heritage Site. and creative art installations. Booking is required for all activities and and outdoor seating. Camborne was also the home of engineer you can tailor your visit to suit your Richard Trevithick, honored in April Enjoy a free day of family fun at Heart- needs. Book a half- or full day experience every year at the Trevithick Day festival. lands – a 19 acre visitor attraction and or a specially customized trip, whatever World Heritage Site Gateway. Alternati- suits the ages, interests and physical The mining roots of Camborne are still vely explore the largest woodland area in capabilities of your group – there is so- evident with chimney stacks and the cha- West Cornwall – Tehidy Country Park. mething to enjoy here for everyone. For racteristic flora and fauna of the Cornish detailed information and bookings, visit: mining landscape. The , named For more information, visit: www.feadonfarmwildlife.co.uk as a result of the water colour caused by www.cornwalls.co.uk/Camborne

Cycle Redruth to St. Ives – ‘The Coastal Trek’

This cycle route takes you from Redruth out along a coastal route to St.Ives. The route is mainly along country lanes and B roads. Directions are available at: www.cycleroutesuk.com Distance: 19 miles (30.5 km)

22 23 Heartlands ponds. There are 9 miles of footpaths Wet weather rating: to explore as well as a picnic area and How to get there: It is 30 minute, 1.5 mile popular café. Take a look at the Basset walk from Camborne Train Station along memorial on the prominent hill at Carn the main Camborne to Redruth road. Brea, built in 1836 to honor Sir Francis Hayle Alternatively, catch a bus from Camborne Basset, or simply stroll around the lake to Hayle is an old industrial heritage town famed for its magnificent or Redruth. immerse in the rich flora and fauna of the surroundings, with three miles of golden sand to the west and home to area and enjoy a moment of tranquility. Gwithian beach – one of the most popular surfing beaches in the area. Heartlands is Cornwall’s first free cultural The park is free to enter and dog friendly playground, with 19 acres of family fun all year round. to explore. Green outdoor spaces for warm, sunny days as well as an intriguing Hayle is situated on the opposite side of here you can stroll along the harbour to indoor space make it an all year round, Tuckingmill Valley Park St Ives Bay. Try exciting water sports like Hayle’s beaches, or turn right beside the all weather entertainment with exhibi- Wet weather rating: surfing, snorkeling, diving and sailing open air swimming pool to promenade tions, climb-on sculptures, botanical How to get there: It’s an approx. 25 min The hugely popular Gwithian beach offers along King George’s Memorial Walk; an gardens, a giant adventure playscape for walk from Camborne Train Station excellent conditions for surfing and Hayle extravaganza of tropical plants and senso- kids and art and craft studios. along the A3047 towards Redruth. Towans Beach and Godrevy beach makes ry gardens running alongside the estuary. for a relaxing, family friendly day out. Heartlands offers a diverse events Tuckingmill Valley Park is an outstan- The surroundings are perfect for walking, For more information about Hayle, visit: programme throughout the year with ding, award-winning parkland, a symbol with plenty of well-marked footpaths and www.hayletown.co.uk farmers markets, cultural festivals, dance of regeneration for the area that has beco- trails. The area is also regarded as an inter- shows, music events, art exhibitions and me a centre of excellence in conservation. national quality bird-watching spot. theatre. To find out what’s on and for Paradise Park details on opening hours, visit: The facilities include a skate park, During the industrial revolution, the Wet weather rating: www.heartlandscornwall.com numerous walking trails, play facilities copper smelting contributed to the How to get there: A 10 min walk from and creative art installations – all with construction of the town’s harbour and the train station. Walk down the hill to careful consideration of the regional flora townscape, giving it World Heritage Site Foundry Square. Take the Road Tehidy Country Park and fauna. The park has transformed the status in 2006. Hayle is also famous for and follow the brown signs, turning right Wet weather rating: valley while still managing to maintain its , with Hampsons, Warrens and when you get to the top of the hill. How to get there: Buses run regularly from the symbols of Cornish mining landscape Philps all vying for the top spot. Camborne Train Station to Tehidy Park. and the signature plants and habitats Paradise Park is a wildlife sanctuary and Alternatively, walk from the station, associated with this environment. The A lovely walk from Hayle station is along indoor play centre. It is home to a range approx. 45 mins. conservation tasks of the park are coor- the track bed of the old Hayle Wharf of more than 650 tropical birds and other dinated between The Conservation Vol- railway. Take the cycle path that leads be- animals in their ‘Fun Farm’. The indoor Tehidy is a 250 acre country park, unteers, the Council and the community. hind the up-bound platform. When you play area has giant slides and a special the largest area of woodland in West To find out more about the park, visit: reach the path’s end, cross the road and toddlers’ area. For opening hours and Cornwall, with woodland, lakes and www.tcv.org.uk/tuckingmill walk over the sluice gate bridge. From prices, visit: www.paradisepark.org.uk

24 25 St Erth The small, rustic village of St Erth is a good place to enjoy the peaceful Cornish countryside with a delightful Farmers’ Market and connection to the exceedingly popular St Ives.

The Cornish rural village of St Erth is The branch line to St Ives has an excellent situated in West Cornwall, on the River service, with half hourly trains, allowing Hayle. It is the starting point for the St easy access to the pretty village of Lelant, Ives branch line, which is a scenic railway the coastal footpath and of course St Ives, with spectacular sea and estuary views. St famous for its special quality of light that Erth’s surrounding countryside offers a for years has drawn artists to live in the wide range of walking, cycling and riding area. Here you can visit the Tate Modern Godrevy lighthouse trails as well as several local golf courses. and Barbara Hepworth’s sculpture garden, take fishing and pleasure boat trips to Beaches for walkers and nature watchers with the St Erth is home to one of the finest watch seals and other wildlife or just With its extensive stretch of golden, sandy surrounding alluring headlands. ancient bridges in Cornwall, now over six enjoy an ice-cream on one of St Ives sandy beaches, the surroundings of Hayle has Type of beach: Sandy hundred years old. The village also has a beaches. something to suit everyone. Lifeguard service: Yes shop, a post office, The Star Inn pub and Dog Friendly: No dogs allowed two churches. Gwithian Beach & Godrevy May to October View over The Island and Gwithian Beach is hugely popular with For more information on local events and Portmeor Beach, St Ives locals and holiday makers and this surfers’ Hayle Towans Beach concerts held by the churches, visit: paradise is the place to go if you want to Towans is the Cornish word for dunes and www.st-erth.co.uk get a lesson from the local surf school or this wide stretched sandy beach is slightly hire wet suits and surf boards. sheltered from the Atlantic waves and Farmers Market rarely gets crowded even in the most busy St Erth holds a Farmers’ Market every Sa- Godrevy, owned by the National Trust, is summer days. turday at the Methodist Hall from 10am connected to Gwithian Beach at low tides Type of beach: Sandy to noon. A variety of local produce is on and end at Godrevy Point with beaut- Lifeguard service: Yes sale, such as flowers, crafts, cakes, fresh Change in St Erth for St Ives iful Godrevy Lighthouse. The beach is Dog Friendly: No dogs allowed fish and meat, bread, pasties and other and St Ives Branch Line popular for families and surfers as well as May to October home cooking.

26 27 Penzance As the major commercial and tourist centre of West Cornwall, Penzance has a lot to offer. Visit the fascinating St Michael’s Mount or enjoy a truly unique theatre performance at the ancient .

Penzance is a coastal town defined by its St Michael’s Mount history, providing top quality attractions Wet weather rating: of ancient sites as well as a variety of How to get there: Catch a bus from nearby beaches to enjoy on sunny days. Penzance Train Station to or Take a stroll along the town’s seafront, walk to Marazion, 2.1 miles (3.4 km). lined with palm trees or indulge yourself in an all-day shopping frenzy. St Michael’s Mount with it’s cobble streets, enchanting medieval castle and tropical The town is surrounded by an area of garden will dazzle you. Still home to the St magnificent natural beauty and Celtic Aubyn family and a small community, the culture, only 9 miles from the impres- charming island offers visitors the chance to sive scenery of Land’s End. A few miles explore the island’s legends, architecture and away at Porthcurno the stunning Minack thousand years of history, with buildings Theatre offers a great seasonal cultural dating all the way back to the 12th century. scene, hosting live performances and music concerts in the summer. A visit to Stray from the mainland across the the island castle of St Michael’s Mount is granite causeway in low tide, following a must with its enchanting castle and tro- the foot-steps of pilgrims, or catch a boat pical garden. Alternatively walk or take in high tide. Relax in the vivid subtropical the bus towards the picturesque fishing garden and explore the ancient castle and villages of and Mousehole, with church at the top. Have a picnic, tuck into their thriving arts scenes and, in winter, fresh local food at Sail Loft Restaurant or fabulous Christmas light displays. indulge in a at the Island café. For detailed information regarding tide For more information about what Penzan- timings, opening hours and boat ticket ce has to offer, visitwww.penzance.co.uk fees, visit: www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk

28 View of St Michael’s Mount 29 performance. In evenings, the atmosp- Beaches Lifeguard service: Yes The Minack Theatre’s dramatic here of the performances are magically The area around Penzance has dozens of Dog Friendly: Marazion: No dogs setting create a unique backdrop enhanced with the sea and moon. beaches and the examples below are all allowed Easter to October Performances are from June to September accessible by bus; the bus station is adja- Longrock: Dogs allowed all year but the visitor centre, gardens and café cent to the train station in Penzance. are open year round. For more info, visit Sennen Cove Beach www.minack.com. Penzance Beach With its excellent reputation as a surfing The beach in Penzance stretched along venue, Sennen Cove Beach is a long, san- Porthcurno Telegraph Museum celebra- the Promenade for a mile and is only dy beach extremely popular with a laid tes Porthcurno’s location as the point at accessible from mid to low tide. back surf style and friendly atmosphere. which many transatlantic submarine te- Type of beach: Shingle and rock Type of beach: Sandy legraph cables came ashore. The museum Lifeguard service: No Lifeguard service: Yes is housed in the former telegraph facility. Dog Friendly: No dogs allowed Dog Friendly: No dogs allowed This excellent attraction has a host of Easter to October May to September fascinating displays, guided talks and a chance to dress up in Victorian clothes Porthcurno Beach or practice Morse code, a historic tunnel, With its white sand and clear waters, Land’s End and a sculpture garden. For more infor- Porthcurno beach looks tropical and is Wet weather rating: The Minack Theatre and mation visit; www.porthcurno.org.uk. described by some as being a paradise, How to get there: Catch a bus from the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum set in an idyllic cove. It is popular with Penzance station to Land’s End. Wet weather rating: both tourists and locals and it is situated How to get there: Catch a bus from Ferry to the Isles of Scilly on the cliffs right below the famous Mi- Land’s End, only 9 miles west of Pen- Penzance to Porthcurno or buy your The Isles of Scilly, just off the coast of nack Theatre and Porthcurno Telegraph zance, is the most westerly point of the ticket through one of the travel operators Cornwall, with their astonishing, unspoi- Museum. English mainland and the closest to that arrange inclusive trips to the theatre, led beauty and golden sandy beaches, Type of beach: Sandy the North American continent. With these include pick-ups from Penzance or are loved by locals and visitors alike. The Lifeguard service: Yes stunning, natural beauty and outstanding St Ives. exceptionally mild climate and peaceful Dog Friendly: No dogs allowed wildlife, it is the perfect place for walking atmosphere make them a haven of tran- May to September along the wide stretched, cliff covered The Minack Theatre is a world famous quility and you can walk and hike, cycle coastline. You can see the famous Long- open-air cliff theatre, constructed in the or enjoy boat trips and tours to explore Marazion/Longrock Beach ships Lighthouse only a short walk from 1930s, overlooking the spectacular pano- the islands and their remarkable wildlife. Marazion Beach is a popular family beach the visitor centre and even the faraway rama of Porthcurno Bay. Its performances The ferry departs from Penzance to St with a good children’s playground located silhouettes of the Isles of Scilly will be runs throughout the summer season Mary’s Harbour. It is also possible to tra- on the green behind. After the mile long visible in the far distance on clear and presenting drama, live music, opera and vel by helicopter from Penzance Heliport beach of Marazion the bay becomes sunny days. Explore the extraordinary musicals. Day visitors can explore the or by plane from Land’s End Airport. Longrock Beach, another safe family be- scenery on trails available in guides from subtropical garden, relax in the café, and Plan your trip and find out more on ach where swimming is particularly safe. the visitor centre. To plan your trip, visit: enjoy a matinee or children’s story telling www.visitislesofscilly.com Type of beaches: Sandy www.landsend-landmark.co.uk

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