St Nectan's Glen

About

St Nectan’s Glen is a dramatic wooded valley on the north coast of Cornwall, stretching a mile along both banks of the Trevillet River. The glen’s crown jewel is St Nectan’s Kieve, a stunning sixty‑foot waterfall that plunges through a hole in the rocks, drawing visitors who come to whisper wishes into the misty spray. Below the waterfall sits the ancient Hermitage, a half‑timbered structure that once housed a 6th‑century hermit. The landscape is a tapestry of rare mosses, liverworts and ancient trees, earning the site protection as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Though privately owned, the Glen offers free public access to its trails and woods; a small fee applies for the waterfall area, ensuring the upkeep of the visitor centre and guided paths. The surrounding countryside boasts a rich flora and faunal heritage, with waterfowl and the iconic Daphne myth echoing across its cliffs. Clearly, the Glen serves as both a natural sanctuary and a living chapter of Cornwall’s folklore. Visitors arriving in late spring or early autumn can expect milder weather, shorter queues and the chance to witness the waterfall’s spray at its most vigorous. The experience is best suited to families eager for a blend of adventure and education, history buffs fascinated by the hermitage and legends of Saint Nectan, and nature lovers who relish the unique wetlands and rare plant species.

Highlights

• Waterfall
• The Hermitage
• SSSI Designation

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 3 hours