Lerryn

If Lostwithiel is the gateway to River Fowey Valley, then halfway down the estuary and hidden away up its own stunning creek, Lerryn is its gem. A quiet and peaceful village, Lerryn is a place that one almost wants to keep secret so that it does not become a popular destination. Pronounced ‘Ler-in’ the name is Cornish for ‘waters’ and it is the constant coming and going of the tidal river that gives the village its appeal and its ever changing scenery. At low tide there are stepping stones for pedestrians to cross to the other side.

Nestling at the head of the creek and surrounded by dense woodland, it’s the perfect place for a walk to view the scenery and wildlife. There has been a crossing over the River Lerryn for more than 700 years; the current pretty stone arch bridge was built around 1573. It is said that the woods bordering the river here may well have been Kenneth Grahame’s inspiration for the Wild Wood in Wind in the Willows. It takes little imagination to conjure in one’s mind Ratty and Mole scrurrying along the charming riverbank. The village lies within the boundaries of two parishes, St Veep and St Winnow, with St Veep Parish Church named for a Celtic saint. Much restored in the 19th century the church retains features that date back to the 14th century. On the south bank of the river you can walk to what is locally know as Tivoli Park, complete with fountains and follies. It was an ideal spot for the popular village regatta, last held in 1968. Lerryn provides some first-class walks, along the riverbank and through the woods.

Available Guidebooks for this region:

Digital Editions by county of the Hidden Places Guides are available Free of Charge. To download please Click Here