The sea isn’t the only water based beauty in Cornwall: we have some beautiful waterfalls in Cornwall too, across the county. When you come to Cornwall, make sure to stop at least one of these watery beauties.
From the sea to rivers and waterfalls, there is nothing like the sound of water to renew and relax, making Cornwall the perfect place for a relaxing holiday.
These waterfalls are great for those who love walking holidays in Cornwall. Hendra is great for couples’ holidays in Cornwall, ideally located near the north coast, with access to many places worth exploring. When you come back, Hendra has lots for you to enjoy with luxury accommodation, 4 on-site eateries, and nightly entertainment.
Read on to explore Cornwall’s waterfalls…
1. Golitha Falls Waterfall, St Neot
Take a detour to Golitha Falls on the way down to us, or back. Located in a secluded woodland near Liskeard, this place is in the heart of the Cornish countryside. A peaceful spot for a picnic and a wander, this babbling waterfall is a section of the River Fowey. It is a place perfect for your imagination to run wild, and imagine, and maybe spot, a Cornish piskie!
2. Kennall Vale, near Ponsanooth
A hidden gem, situated in the village of Ponsanooth, outside of Truro. With tumbling waterfalls, open glades, as well as rich history. The site was the former location of Kennall Vale Gunpowder Factory, and the ruins can still be seen today. It is rumoured to be haunted too, which may make you more or less inclined to visit! It is a peaceful and pretty walk, with bluebells in the spring – a must for those who love a waterfall.
3. St Nectan’s Glen, Near Tintagel
St Nectan’s is situated between Tintagel and Boscastle, nestled in the peaceful woodland, next to the river Trevillet. This walk starts off with some country meets sea views, as you look over to nearby Tintagel. Stroll deeper into the woods, past the ivy clad trees and ferns, and become immersed in this peaceful woodland. Approach the waterfall via the steps and then witness it in all of its 60ft glory! The waterfall has pushed through the original basin, which makes it even more magnificent to witness, with its tremendous but peaceful power. A place perfect for reflection; this is a spiritual place for many.
There is a cafe, which has views over the woodland, so you can enjoy the serenity and refresh before embarking on your journey back.
St Nectans Glen
4. Menacuddle, just outside of St Austell
This beautiful walk was only recently re-discovered by dedicated volunteers. Here, you will find a waterfall, in addition to a Holy Well/baptistry that dates back to the 15th Century, and is thought to have been one of the most important religious sites in the whole of Cornwall at this time. Lovingly restored, this peaceful place is especially pretty in the spring with many flowers.
5. Rocky Valley, near Boscastle
Another spot near Tintagel and Boscastle, these wild Cornish waterfalls run through a craggy gorge. This is one for walkers and adventurers, on the wild north coast. Part of the 1.7-mile walk is steep and slippery, so take care. There are interesting historical places along the way too, which include the remnants of Trewethet Mill and rock carvings.
To get here, you can park at the lay-by on the main road near Rocky Valley or at Bossiney Cove car park. Follow the signs to Trevillet Mill, where a public footpath through the restaurant takes you over a bridge, into the woods and along the Trevillet River, across another bridge and to the clifftop.
Kennal Vale
6. Tregardock Beach Waterfall, near Port Isaac
Between Port Isaac and Tintagel, you’ll find this secret Cornish waterfall at the northern end of the beach. The water plummets more than 160 feet over the mouth of a cave and onto the sand below. Please check tide times as at high tide the beach completely disappears.
This beach is a quiet beach unsuitable for swimming as there are rips and submerged rocks. Find some parking on the roadside, near Treligga farm. This beach is accessed via a winding and steep public footpath. It is about a mile from the popular Trebarwith Strand (pictured, main image at the top, by Adam Gibbard), a typical, dramatic, Cornish northern coast beach, which has seasonal lifeguard cover.
This spring, we have up to 50% off selected breaks, so there’s no better time to book at break in Cornwall and explore.
