Welcome to From The Lizard to Helston

The Lizard Peninsula lies to the south of the town of Helston. Around Helston is a delightful countryside with historic houses, beautiful parkland and the Wendron Valley, now picturesque, it was once the scene of intense industrial mining activity. The Helford River in the east of the peninsula is a mecca for small boat sailors coming out of Falmouth. To anyone who has read Daphne du Maurier’s “Frenchman’s Creek” - or seen the film - the Helford River must be visited.

These hidden creeks and muddy inlets full of wildlife are a far cry from the storm tossed crags of The Manacles - but all make up the essential spirit of Cornwall. Whether your choice is to laze on the beach beside the water, sail on it in a small boat or explore beneath the waves as a diver, this is an area which can cater for your needs.

The warm local climate has led to the abundant growth of sub-tropical vegetation, and a constant profusion of colour all year round. Where else do primroses flower before Christmas, or camellias open in December? Daffodils often decorate the hedgerows in January, to be followed closely by a myriad of other wild flowers, the abundance of which is rarely seen elsewhere.

Tin Mine

Small villages make up the communities here, all with their own distinct individual character - and most with their own pub, where you can be sure of good food and drink. Colourful fishing boats, pulled up on the beach, bear testimony to the fact that these small communities still depend largely on the sea for their livelihood.

The National Seal Sanctuary and Roskilly’s Farm will delight the animal lovers in the family, whilst the more technically minded will enjoy visiting the Lighthouse at the Lizard Point and the Wireless station at Mullion. It was here at Mullion that Marconi set up the station that transmitted the first transatlantic message just over 100 years ago.

The natural scenery is superb but as you drive southwards you see the space age scene of Goonhilly Down Earth Station with its giant satellite tracking dishes dominating the skyline. Given that communications form a more and more important feature of the lives of many of us, a visit to the Earth Station may enable you to understand a little more of what happens when you press your phone keys and are magically connected to the rest of the world. If the ultra modern is not for you, then try the stately charm and tranquil peace of the Trelowarren Estate and its gardens.

Throughout the region you will find craft shops and galleries, appropriate places to buy really worthwhile mementoes of your stay in this most beautiful part of Cornwall.