Gunnislake: Mining Heritage and Trails in the Tamar Valley

Gunnislake combines impressive mining heritage with the Tamar Valley and a variety of opportunities for an engaging trip. Those looking for a holiday apartment or holiday cottage in the village can plan their stay around historical discoveries, a walk and travel on the Tamar Valley Line. The location around the River Tamar is particularly defining: here, evidence of mining, listed buildings and an extensive recreational route come together.

Mining History on the River Tamar

A notable point of interest is Gunnislake Clitters Mine. The Scheduled Monument comprises the remains of a copper, tin, arsenic and tungsten mine from the 19th to the early 20th century. The site lies on a steep slope towards the River Tamar, 1 km west-northwest of Gunnislake village in southeast Cornwall. Gunnislake Clitters Mine produced tin and copper periodically for around 100 years from the 1820s onwards.

Public access to the mine is permitted. Care is required around the old buildings, spoil heaps and other structures. This makes the site suitable for travellers who want to experience industrial history not only in exhibitions, but in the landscape itself. In the area above and around Calstock and Gunnislake, the Tamar Valley is part of the Cornwall and West Devon World Heritage Sites because of its mining heritage.

New Bridge, Quay and Church of St Ann

New Bridge, also known as Gunnislake Bridge, likewise represents the history of the Tamar Valley. The Grade I listed structure was built around 1520 as a bridge over the River Tamar. It is 55 metres long and has six slightly pointed arches. The ruined buildings at the quay near New Bridge were built between 1801 and 1802 by the Tamar Manure Navigation.

Another historical point of reference is the Church of St Ann. It is a Grade II listed building and was built in 1880–81 as a chapel of ease for Gunnislake. Church of St Ann, New Bridge and the history of mining and transport represent different historical themes in Gunnislake. You therefore do not have to limit your days to a single theme.

Combining Walking and Travel Effectively

For active days, the From Gunnislake Station Hingston Down & Albaston Circular Walk is a good option. The easy circular walk is approximately 4½ miles (7.2 km) long, takes around two hours and starts and ends at Gunnislake station. The precise route length remains an important factor in planning your day. The Tamar Valley Line connects Plymouth with Gunnislake, providing a clear travel option if you want to combine the village with Plymouth.

As a wider landscape route, the Tamar Valley Trail connects the outskirts of Plymouth with Launceston. The recreational route is 35 miles long and alternates between the Cornish and Devon sides of the valley. Those choosing accommodation in Gunnislake can therefore weigh up a stay focused on history, a clearly defined walk from the station and further exploration of the Tamar Valley.

Orientation for Your Stay

The Tamar Valley Centre offers a self-service information zone for visitors. An interactive screen, videos and website information are available there. It is also possible to book accommodation via the Visit Tamar Valley website and buy the book Coast to Coast.

Gunnislake is particularly suited to a trip combining cultural history and activity. The mine requires care around the old structures, while the circular walk, with its approximate duration, allows for clearly defined day planning. New Bridge, the Tamar Canal with its canal, lock, island and a pond for keeping salmon, as well as the Church of St Ann, add further historical accents. When looking for a holiday apartment, you can therefore first decide whether the focus should be on mining heritage, walking, rail connections or a combination of these.

More Places to Consider

If you would like to compare destinations in addition to Gunnislake, you can find Luckett, Callington, Carlyon Bay, Gulval, Bodmin, Wendron, Lansallos and Germoe here.

For the wider travel overview: Cornwall.