The Parish Of South Petherwin Footpaths

South Petherwin’s footpaths

The countryside surrounding South Petherwin is typical of North Cornwall with low hills and hidden valleys covered in a mixture of beautiful woods and pastureland. The ivy covered oaks and sycamores, undergrown with holly and hazel are a haven for birds and small mammals and the nettles, brambles and elders in the hedgerows are a magnet to butterflies and a host of other insects. The damp valleys offer an amazing flying display by damsel flies and dragonflies while the wild flowers in the warmer months are unsurpassed in their beauty and variety.

Our footpaths provide a good circular walk of around 6 kilometres (4 miles) starting at St Paternus church and taking in the church in the neighbouring parish of St Thomas the Apostle at Tregadillett which village, incidentally, also has a very welcoming pub (The Elliot Arms) which serves good food. What better excuse for a walk! The going is generally good but there are several stiles and, as much of the path is across pasture, it can be muddy in wet weather. As ever when walking in the countryside stout footwear is recommended. Care is needed when crossing the A30 but steps and a central refuge are provided so that this busy road can be safely negotiated.

There is plenty of interest en route with far reaching views to Dartmoor in the east and Bodmin Moor in the west. Abundant birdlife and flowers will delight the naturalists and keen horticulturalists can sneak a peek at the beautiful gardens at Penfoot in passing. For those with a historical bent The Elliot Arms is also known as The Square and Compass referring to its use as a Masonic Lodge by French prisoners during the Napoleonic War.

Walking is an excellent means of keeping fit and there is the added bonus of a day out in our beautiful countryside. Try it, you’ll love it!

Photographs and Write up with thanks The South Petherwin Volunteers

Parish Groups

footpath photos

pARISH cENSUS