Local Area
GILLAN COVE & ST ANTHONY
Helston 11 miles; Helford 2.5 miles; Porthallow 2 miles
Gillan Cove is a picturesque inlet lying just south of the Helford River on the Lizard Peninsula. It is home to numerous small boats moored in the cove, a quiet beach, woodside walks along Gillan Creek and direct access to the South West Coast Path towards Nare Point and Porthallow.
It is one of Cornwall's best kept secrets. Families over many generations have returned to Gillan Cove to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this secluded cove, it's beach, rocky pools, swimming, walking and messing about in boats.
A wide range of motor boats, kayaks, sailing boats and rowing dinghies can be hired from St Anthony, which is located on the other side of Gillan Cove. For those wishing to bring their own boats, launch facilities and temporary moorings are available from Gillan beach or St Anthony.
GILLAN CREEK
Gillan Creek runs inland from Gillan Cove to the ancient settlement of Carne. It is perfect for kayaking or stand-up boarding up to Carne Mill at high tide.
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For those who enjoy walking, there is a National Trust footpath through the woods that run the length of the creek. The path continues along a very quiet lane on the other bank to stunning St Anthony. This forms part of the South West Coast Path, which continues from St Anthony onto Denis Head and along the banks of the Helford River.
The brave of heart can swim across to St Anthony, or even wade across at low tide.
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In the other direction, the South West Coast Path heads south along the coast from Gillan Cove to Porthallow via Nare Point.
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HELFORD RIVER
The Helford River is a sailers paradise. It is home to all forms of boating activities, from stand-up boarding and kayaking to the larger yachts and fishing boats that moor on the Helford. Visitors are welcome at the Helford River Sailing Club, either for a drink, meal or temporary membership.
From Easter, there is a regular foot ferry service between Helford village and Helford Passage, which lie on opposite banks of the river. This is handy for walkers who want to continue following the South West Coast Path towards Falmouth.
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There are numerous walks around the Helford, including Frenchman's Creek, the setting for Daphne du Maurier's famous novel.
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The Helford has a number of creeks as it winds its way inland to Gweek, home of the Gweek Classic Boatyard and the Cornish Seal Sanctuary. Boat trips are available from Helford to explore these creeks and experience more of their wildlife.
PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
This is is the nearest pub. It is owned by the community and run by Kathy and her local staff. They offer a warm friendly welcome and serve food Thursday - Sunday. See website for details.
Phone: 01326 231 301
This is a lovely creekside pub in Helford village. It is popular with locals, sailors and walkers. Meals are served daily. See website for details.
Phone: 01326 231 235
This pub marks the halfway point on the South West Coast Path. It makes a great lunchtime stop on a walk to Porthallow along the coast via Nare Point. See website for opening times for the bar and kitchen.
Phone: 01326 280256
The Ship Inn is small family run restaurant. Greg and Alison have established a great reputation for their food and service over many years. They have worked hard to build great relationships with their local producers and customers. See website for opening times and menus.
Phone: 01326 221240
Roskilly's is a working organic farm, which is famous for its delicious ice cream. The Croust House Restaurant at Roskilly's serves delicious homemade food either inside by a roaring log fire or out in the sunshine in the old farmyard.
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Pretty much everything is homemade at the farm and includes soups, pizzas, burgers and a variety of fresh salads as well as lots of cakes, yummy pies! See website for opening times.
Phone: 01326 280479