Nordic 4 Cornwall Tour - Falmouth Shanty
June 15th & 16th 2024
Join us for a Nordic Walking Sea Shanty weekend in Cornwall. Day 1 includes a ferry to St Mawes, a walk to St Anthony Lighthouse, lunch at Towan Beach, and the lively Sea Shanty festival in Falmouth. Day 2 offers a boat trip to the Helford River, walking through Halvose, exploring hidden coves, lunch at the Shipwright Inn, and a wander through Daphne Du Maurier's Frenchman's Creek. Experience stunning views, engaging paths, and a celebrated festival on this unique weekend of exercise and exploration!
Overlooking Pendennis Castle from St Anthony Head - Day 1
Frenchmans Creek Day 2
Dennis Head Walk - Day 2
Helford River Boats - Day 2
St Anthony Lighthouse - Day 1
Day 1
Our journey begins with a local ferry ride from Falmouth to St Mawes, where we'll stop for refreshments before taking a smaller ferry to the charming settlement of Place. From there, we'll begin our walk towards St Anthony Head, visiting the iconic St Anthony Lighthouse along the way. This lighthouse holds a special place in many people's hearts, as it was famously used in the opening titles of Fraggle Rock. We'll continue on to the lookout point, where we'll be treated to spectacular views of Carrick Roads, Falmouth, and Pendennis Castle.
Our walk continues along the stunning coastline, with far-reaching views of Nare Head. We'll take a break for lunch at Towan Beach, where after lunch you can either relax and discover the beach, enjoying an ice cream, or join us for a faster walk along the gently undulating coastline towards the pretty village of Portscatho, overlooking the picturesque Gerrans Bay, before we return.
We'll regroup at Towan Beach and take a slightly different route back through stunning woodland, where we'll catch our return ferry.
Once we're back in Falmouth, the town will be buzzing with the excitement of the Sea Shanty festival, and you'll have the opportunity to soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy the festivities.
Day 2
Today, we'll start the morning with a short walk down to the Helford River Boats, where we'll board a pretty little boat for a relaxing trip across to the Helford to start our morning walk.
Our walk will begin by making our way to the charming village of Halvose, with its picturesque thatched houses. Today's walk will take us through woodland and fields, with interesting stiles and hidden coves to discover, including Gillan Creek. Please bring a flask, and your Walk Leader Kelly will provide cake or biscuits for us to enjoy during our morning break (if you have any special dietary requirements we suggest you bring a snack to suit your own particular n), with stunning views over the creeks. This loop walk will bring us back to Halvose, where we'll stop for lunch at the Shipwright Inn.
In the afternoon, we'll take a walk through the wooded valleys of the Helford River and explore Daphne Du Maurier's Frenchman's Creek. We'll visit the tiny chapel of St. Frances at Pengwedhen and follow the path along the length of the creek to Withan Quay before returning. If you find the morning is enough for you you can spend some time by the water relaxing with a drink whilst you wait for the rest of the group to return.
We hope you'll enjoy these walks, with stunning scenery and hidden treasures to discover.
Useful Information
Day 1: If you're not staying in Falmouth, there is paid parking at the Quarry Car Park.
Refreshments: Coffee stop at St Mawes | Lunch at Thirstea Cafe - Towan Beach.
Toilets are available at the start, coffee stop, and lunch.
Day 2: Paid Parking is available at The Ferry Boat Inn. Refreshments: Bring your own Coffee/Tea. Kelly will bring Cornish treats | Lunch at The Shipwright Inn.
Toilets are available on the other side after the boat trip, at lunch, and at the end.
Evening Meals Saturday & Sunday: Katie has booked a table at the Working Boat, a welcoming waterfront pub located at Greenbank Quay, offering stunning views of Falmouth Harbour. Known for its selection of local beers, including its own brew, ciders, wine, and a fantastic menu, the Working Boat is a great spot to unwind. We're booked for 6:30 pm, so we can enjoy the Sea Shanty Stage next door, savouring good music and food in the Festival atmosphere. Feel free to stay seated or get closer to the stage, depending on your mood. As we head to and from our accommodation, we'll be treated to the sounds of other Sea Shanty groups performing along the way. Check out their website: The Working Boat
If you'd like to join us at the Working Boat on either Fri, Sat, or both nights, please let Katie know. For those staying on the Sun night, there are plenty of local eateries to choose from, however it might be an idea to book ahead.
Routes/Distance: On the first day, you'll be covering roughly 10 miles. If you wish, you can opt for a break at Towan Beach after lunch, instead of joining us for the extra stretch up to Porthscathoe and back. The second day's itinerary is designed in a figure-eight pattern, covering 10 miles if you choose to walk both routes, with both paths converging at the lunch spot. If you're up for a more relaxed afternoon, you can wind down after lunch, either by relaxing at the Shipwright Arms or in the scenic village of Halvose.
Notes: There will be numerous opportunities for you to take photographs; however, if you prefer to simply enjoy your walk, we will be taking photographs throughout the day that will be made available to you. If you are in any way uncomfortable or have any problems before, during, or after your walks, please let Kelly know so that we can make arrangements to ensure your comfort. I carry complete first aid kits and am trained in outdoor first aid.
Where to stay
For your convenience, we suggest staying in Falmouth or at a location along the Falmouth branch line
Your Nordic Walking
guide for the weekend
Meet Kelly from Walk Kernow, an INWA Instructor and owner of Walk Kernow with over 12 years of experience who will guide you through your weekend with us.
To contact Kelly please email her at info@walkkernow.co.uk
