Opening up a beautiful estuary to walkers who love a good view
Access to the countryside has seldom been more important for millions of people. Evie Townend reports on a stunning new footpath
ANEW path has opened along Cornwall’s coastline and is ready to be enjoyed by spring walkers.
The mile-long route replaces a busy, narrow and sunken lane to provide a more scenic route on the Helford River.
The work has been completed as a partnership between Natural England and the National Trust.
Starting to the south of Gillan Creek, it links the hamlets of Carne and Gillan, before the path continues in the direction of Falmouth.
The new section of path can be accessed from either Gillan or Carne and is signed with oak way marker posts.
However, there is no public parking available other than in the laybys at the head of the creek, near the turn to St Anthony.
Rachel Holder, Lead Ranger for the National Trust, said: “We think this new section of path is of huge benefit for walkers, whether locals out for a stroll, or long-distance walkers completing the whole South West Coast Path. The new route passes through tranquil creek-side woodland, goes by picturesque Tregithey Quay, and then climbs through fields to take in fantastic views over the church at St Anthony, and along the coast towards Falmouth.
“It is a lovely walk, and a great improvement on the former inland road route of the Coast Path. It’s been rewarding to see this project go from an idea, through to planning the best route, and completing the necessary works on the ground. This included clearing undergrowth, tree safety checks, building steps, and installing a granite bridge, work which has been grant funded by Natural England.”
Lone Mouritsen, of Natural England’s Coastal Access Team, said: “Better connecting Carne to Gillan and, in turn, people to nature is our contribution to the world-famous England Coast Path. Cornwall is a popular attraction for walkers, the county enjoying an official National Trail Coast Path since the 1970s.
“But that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved upon. Natural England identified the route near Gillan as one place where it could be improved and offer walkers a safer, closer experience to nature. With the new route falling across National Trust land, a partnership was formed. Natural England would plan and pay for the work if National Trust delivered and maintained it.”
This is not the only project that the partnership will oversee. They are also looking to fund upgrades to existing coast path sections right around the South West, which will be completed in the coming years.