Helford River to Falmouth Area Guide

This area is bounded on the east by Falmouth Bay and on the south by the Helford River. Maenporth village, with its superb beach, overlooks the sea and through it runs the south-west coast path. This can be followed south around Rosemullian Head to the mouth of the Helford River.

About one mile inland from here is the village of Mawnan Smith, its name probably deriving from the fact that it once had several smithies serving the surrounding farming community. A small artisan group continues this tradition. In the centre of the village is the thatched and characterful Red Lion pub dating from 1695. 

The Helford River is a ria or drowned river valley and is very popular with visiting yachters and is also used by Helford River Sailing Club. It is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, There are two gardens on the north bank open to the public, Glendurgan (National Trust) and Trebah, both of which contain many colourful and sub-tropical plants.

At Helford passage there is a foot ferry across the river to Helford village on the south bank. A mile further west is Porthnavas Creek leading to the hamlet of Porth Navas from where granite was exported in the 19th century.

Historically the Helford River was busy serving the needs of fishing, farming and mining industries. There is still a small amount of commercial fishing taking place. However today its great beauty and secluded beaches mean that tourism is its mainstay.