Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP OF CHAPTER
The Helford
Flowing along the Lizard's northern edge, lined with overhanging oaks and hidden creeks,
the River Helford feels far removed from the rest of the peninsula. There are few corners
of Cornwall which have remained as naturally unspoilt, and it's a haven for marine wild-
life, as well as one of Cornwall's last remaining oyster fisheries at Porth Navas. It's also
infamous as one of the county's priciest places to buy a house - there's a liberal smatter-
ing of rock-star mansions and palatial houses sprinkled along the riverbanks.
The southern bank is much less accessible than the northern shore, and is ideal for ex-
ploring on foot.
Helford River Boats
( 01326-250770;
www.helford-river-boats.co.uk
;
adult/child £4/2;
9.30am-9.30pm Jun-Aug, 9.30am-5.30pm Apr, May, Sep & Oct)
runs pedestrian ferries from Helford Pas-
sage (near Falmouth) to
Helford village
, and also hires out dinghies and motor boats if you
prefer exploring solo.
If you're driving, park at the village car park, walk downhill and cross the bridge into
the village. Drinks and snacks are sold at the
Down by the Riverside Café
(
01326-231893;
www.downbytheriverside.co.uk
)
beside the car park.
For a longer walk, the coast trail leads east to
Frenchman's Creek
(inspiration for Daphne
du Maurier's classic tale of Cornish smuggling). To the west, the coast path leads to the
village of
St-Anthony-in-Meneage
, picturesquely plonked beside Gillan Creek. Locals can
sometimes be spotted trigging (cockle-picking) in the nearby mudflats - it's an annual tra-
dition on Good Friday. Further still is the isolated headland of
Nare Point
, from where the
views unfurl all the way to Pendennis Point.
Various local kayaking companies offer expeditions along the river, including
Koru
07968-770756;
www.aberfaloutdoorpursuits.co.uk
;
half/full day £35/50)
.
Eating
Shipwright Arms
( 01326-231235; Helford; mains £6-14)
Thatched on top, beamed inside, blessed with to-die-for
river views, the Helford's waterfront pub is an olde-worlde beauty. Betty Stogs, Doom
Bar and Helford Creek cider behind the bar.
PUB
£
