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    Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1-1.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    5.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    108 m
    User Ratings
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk

    The Helford and Frenchman's Creek Circular Walk is a fantastic walking route in Cornwall that will take you through a variety of terrain with views of several waterways. While out walking the trail, you will pass through the village of Helford for views of the Helford River, before walking along the forested banks of Frenchman’s Creek for the return leg of the journey. This is a quick and easy route that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts.

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    Route Description for Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk

    Walking the Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Trail will see you explore a mixture of village streets, woodland paths, and open fields that will require proper walking footwear to traverse. Additionally, some of the forest and creekside paths can become quite muddy after periods of rainy weather, so make sure to bring waterproof boots or wellies depending on the conditions. Parking at the trailhead can also be limited during peak hours, so make sure to arrive early or during off-peak times to secure a space.

    Although trail conditions along this route aren’t always ideal, the beautiful views along the Helford River are always spectacular. When combined with the chance to explore the surrounding woodlands and the village of Helford itself, this is an excellent walking route that can be enjoyed by a variety of outdoor enthusiasts.

    Setting out from the car park, you will make your way to the southwest for 136 m and cross the bridge over Helford Creek, keeping right along the road to make your way into the village. After passing by the Shipwrights Arms, continue on for 41 m and turn left onto a track, following it west for 56 m to pick up a footpath on the right. Here, you will make your way past several buildings and keep left through the tree cover to skirt around Penarvon Cove.

    From the beach, keep right along the trail for the next 145 m, climbing uphill to pass by the Penarvon Cabin and eventually arrive at a junction. Taking the path to the right, you will complete a quick 0.6 km loop through the forest that offers some intermittent views of the Helford River. Once you arrive back at the junction, take the path on the right and follow it southwest for 0.6 km to exit the tree cover and reach a junction with the road.

    Head right along the road and keep left to make your way downhill through a stretch of farmland, eventually entering into a lovely forest along the banks of Frenchman’s River. After crossing over a small bridge, make your way south along the trail for the next 1.0 km, taking some time to appreciate the tranquil beauty of the forested creekside setting, before arriving at a junction with a track.

    Turning left here, you will climb uphill and pass through Kestle Barton, descending the opposite side of the hill into a wooded glen along Helford Creek. Following the path as it turns to the north, you will eventually exit the dense cover of the forested glen to pass by the Holy Mackerel Cafe on the way into the car park where you started the Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk.

    Trail Highlights

    Helford River and Frenchman’s Creek

    Situated in Cornwall, the Helford River is actually a flooded river valley or ria that is fed by seven creeks: Mawgan Creek, Polwheveral Creek, Frenchman's Creek, Polpenwith Creek, Port Navas Creek, Gillan Creek, and Ponsontuel Creek. Frenchman’s Creek, which flows to the west of the village of Helford, is best known for inspiring the Daphne du Maurier novel, Frenchman’s Creek.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you swim the Helford River?

    The Helford River is a popular place with wild swimmers, just be sure to exercise caution when exploring the waterway.

    Where is the Helford River?

    The Helford River is an estuary that can be found on the eastern end of the Lizard Peninsula, along the west edge of Falmouth Bay.

    Insider Hints for Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk

    • Toilet facilities can be found at the car park near the trailhead.
    • The Holy Mackerel Cafe is a great spot near the trailhead for a quick snack.
    • If you feel like spending a romantic night along the trail, check out the Penarvon Cabin located right along Penarvon Cove.
    • Make sure to wear proper walking footwear.

    Getting to the Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk can be found at the Helford car park, just east of the village.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-Round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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    Helford and Frenchman’s Creek Circular Walk Reviews

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