A Sunny EASTER Sunday, we set off from Trehane Farm. The footpath took us through

a grass field to Tredole Farm and beside some lovely stone buildings and walls and by chance we spoke to the stonemason as we passed on the footpath. Crossing a couple more grass fields we emerged at ST NECTANS GLEN . There are toilets a cafe and LOADS MORE here. It is said St Nectan lived in a hermitage at the head of the waterfall. On stormy days he would venture down to the end of Rocky Valley and ring a silver bell to warn ships away from the treacherous rocks. 

We ventured down the footpath to St Pirans church and Well then took the road for a short distance and picked up the Rocky Valley footpath, passing old mill buildings, to the sea.

Following the coast path alongside the cliffs, we veered off into Tintagel village and passing the number of holiday makers we made are way to the church. Lots of see here. The most ancient historic feature, is a Roman milestone dating to the reign of the Emperor Licinius, who died in AD 324 when he was put to death by his rival Constantine. There are 6 bells here, but no ringing during EASTER WEEK. Leaving the church we followed Vicarage Hill, off Bossiney Rd we took the footpath across fields to Fenterleigh where a large cross stands on the crossroads.

At Trevillett we turned off onto a path skirting around the quarry through trees, eventually arriving at TREFORDA Farm where we had a chat with the farmer before heading on a track down across a stream and up to Tredole and back across the field to the cars.

9.6 miles, many ups and downs, many stiles, this is not for the feint hearted, but with the glorious sunshine and lots to see and great company, thoroughly enjoyable.

https://www.britainexpress.com/counties/cornwall/ancient/rock-valley-labyrinths.htm#google_vignette

March 23rd the weather was grey, the wind keen, but our happy band of walkers soon warmed up, setting off from LESNEWTH Church, via footpaths to St Juliot church at Hennett. Thomas Hardy met his future wife, Emma Gifford, the rector’s sister-in-law here. Detailed etchings on the glass window.

We back tracked a little to pick up a lovely trail through the woods alongside the River Valency which eventually took us into Boscastle. Sunday afternoon the bakery, other shops and pubs were open and a good crowd milling around. We watched some ducks on the river then climbed up Forrabury hill to St. Symphorian church, perched high above the town, and went even higher as Peter lead the way up ladders in the tower onto the roof. Just one bell here to chime. Were there plans to have more? Folklore says maybe … the infamous Rev. Hawker, of Morwenstow, wrote a poem “The Bells of Forrabury”.

read the poem and more here.

We were told that when Dawn French visited whilst filming she donated the 2 angels. Urgent repairs are needed to the roof, plaster is falling from the ceiling and a mesh with netting is strung up so the church can remain open.

We stopped at the site of Bottreaux castle, from which Boscastle gets its name, the settlement here predated any harbour settlement and those homes with 1/2 door entrances.

Back into the woods past Home Farm to Minster church, in the 12th century it became a monastic site, bats have taken over the tower now and are well protected. Leaving the church grounds via the woodland track we saw the gravestone to Joan Wytte, wrongly accused of witchcraft at Bodmin, Gaol died 1813.

We dropped down to the river again, over a footbridge to Newmills, another footbridge back over and a steep incline up to the entrance to Trafalgar, track to Treworld and lane back to St Michaels at Lesnewth. TOTAL 8 Miles.

SAME 7 MILE ish WALK, offered on 2 separate days February 9th and 11th both 11am start. Cream Tea to follow for donations.

Meet in Lower Downgate, CALLINGTON, PL17 8LA.

We plan to start walking at 11.00 am, the distance is just over 7 miles of varied ground conditions, Tarmac, Stoney paths, Mud, deep Mud and quite deep Mud. Mostly on quiet lanes or off road trails, short walk on slightly busier road. No dogs please. Bring something for lunch and drink.

Peter and Caroline walk leaders.