Location
Now a scene of pleasant farmland, rugged heather-strewn hills and abundant wildlife, the Tywarnhayle Valley was once the site of extensive tin and copper mine workings stretching down towards the beach at Porthtowan.
Much of the Tywarnhayle Valley (Cornish: 'The House on the Estuary') is designated as SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest), and where it meets the sea at Porthtowan it joins the South West Coastal Footpath and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty maintained by the National Trust.
In 2007 the mining landscape of Cornwall, of which this is a part, was designated a World Heritage Site. Evidence of its industrial past abounds in the surrounding countryside, from the unique Wheal Ellen engine house just a few yards away to the deep shafts and workings along the steep valley sides. The historical remains in the immediate vicinity are described in detail by Kenneth Brown and Bob Acton in their excellent book of guided walks, "Exploring Cornish Mines Vol. 1".
This is the heart of 'Poldark' country, yet only 15 minutes away is the county town of Truro with its splendid cathedral and wide range of shops.
It takes little longer to reach the historic port of Falmouth or the towns of Newquay or St Ives. Along the coast are larger villages such as St Agnes and Perranporth where, amongst others, Celtic craft shops promise many hours of fascination.
Just a mile away is Porthtowan (Cornish: "The Harbour on the dunes"), a small, quiet village boasting one of the most splendid beaches in Cornwall with lifeguard patrols during the season. Surfing is a popular pastime all year round, and the walks along the cliffs are quite spectacular, whatever the weather. It is only a short distance to other excellent beaches at Chapel Porth, Trevaunance Cove, Perranporth and Godrevy.
A lovely place to stay, with so many touches to make it special. And the view ...!"