Discover The Tamar Valley | A Visitor's Introduction to The Tamar Valley

Why is the Tamar Valley Worth a Visit?

The Tamar Valley is worth visiting for its unspoiled natural beauty and diverse landscapes that shift from wooded riverbanks to windswept moorland. The valley’s mining heritage, part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, adds a unique layer of history, with old engine houses and mines dotting the landscape.

The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering walking trails, cycling routes, and river adventures. Villages like Calstock and Gunnislake exude charm, with pubs overlooking the water and art galleries hidden among narrow lanes. Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life, the Tamar Valley provides a delightful alternative to Cornwall’s bustling coastal resorts.

Tamar Valley Highlights: Things to See and Do in the Tamar Valley

1. Cotehele House and Gardens

Owned by the National Trust, Cotehele House is a beautifully preserved Tudor manor house set on the Cornish side of the River Tamar. The house, largely unchanged since the 16th century, features medieval tapestries, armour, and period furniture. The grounds include formal gardens, orchards, and woodland walks that lead down to Cotehele Quay, where you’ll find the Shamrock, a restored sailing barge. The house and gardens provide stunning views over the river and are perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

2. Calstock and the Viaduct

The riverside village of Calstock is famous for its iconic viaduct, which spans the River Tamar with twelve stone arches. This picturesque village, with its whitewashed cottages and narrow streets, is a hub for artists and walkers. The viaduct, still used by the Tamar Valley Line railway, offers panoramic views of the valley below. Calstock also boasts several cosy pubs, riverside cafés, and regular art exhibitions at the Limekiln Gallery.

3. Morwellham Quay

Morwellham Quay is a living history museum that brings the area’s Victorian mining heritage to life. Visitors can explore the old copper mine by taking an underground mine train, watch traditional craftsmen at work, and visit restored cottages and warehouses. The quay was once a thriving port, and today it provides an immersive experience of Tamar Valley’s industrial past. Costumed guides, historic reenactments, and hands-on activities make Morwellham Quay a fantastic destination for families.

4. Tamar Valley AONB Trails

The Tamar Valley is crisscrossed with walking and cycling trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty and historic landmarks. The Tamar Trails Centre, near Gunnislake, offers 10 miles of woodland paths perfect for hiking, running, or mountain biking. Trails lead to old mining sites, river views, and quiet forested glades. Canoe and kayak hire is also available for those wanting to explore the river from the water.

5. Kit Hill Country Park

Standing at 334 metres, Kit Hill is the highest point in the Tamar Valley and offers spectacular 360-degree views across Cornwall and Devon. The hill is home to prehistoric barrows, engine house ruins, and wild ponies grazing among the heathland. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Dartmoor National Park and the Cornish coast. Kit Hill is a popular spot for walkers, kite flyers, and history enthusiasts interested in Cornwall’s mining past.

6. Buckland Abbey

Just across the river in Devon, Buckland Abbey is a medieval monastery turned Elizabethan home once owned by Sir Francis Drake. Managed by the National Trust, the abbey houses exhibits on Drake’s voyages, as well as stunning tapestries and artworks. The surrounding estate includes wooded trails and farmland, offering scenic walks with views of the river and valley.

7. Gunnislake and the Tamar Valley Line

Gunnislake, at the head of the tidal Tamar, is a charming village and an ideal starting point for exploring the valley. The Tamar Valley Line railway connects Gunnislake to Plymouth, crossing the Calstock Viaduct and offering one of the most scenic train journeys in the UK. The route winds through woodland, estuary views, and historic villages, making it a relaxing way to experience the Tamar Valley.

8. Lopwell Dam and Nature Reserve

Lopwell Dam, located near the mouth of the River Tavy (a tributary of the Tamar), is a peaceful spot for walking and wildlife watching. The nature reserve surrounding the dam is home to herons, kingfishers, and otters, while the dam itself provides picturesque river views. The Old Pump House Café offers a great place to relax and enjoy refreshments by the water.

9. Bere Ferrers and Bere Alston

The villages of Bere Ferrers and Bere Alston are located on the Devon side of the Tamar and are known for their orchards and tranquil riverside walks. Bere Ferrers hosts an annual apple festival, celebrating the region’s traditional orchards and cider-making heritage. A walk along the Bere Peninsula offers serene views of the river and surrounding countryside.

10. River Tamar Boat Trips

For a different perspective of the Tamar Valley, consider taking a river cruise. Tamar River Cruises operate regular trips along the river, allowing visitors to see historic quays, secluded coves, and local wildlife from the water. Some cruises include visits to Calstock, Cotehele, and Morwellham Quay, offering a leisurely way to explore the valley’s highlights.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

The Tamar Valley is easily accessible by car via the A388 (Cornwall) or A386 (Devon). The Tamar Valley Line provides regular train services between Plymouth and Gunnislake, with stops at Bere Ferrers, Calstock, and other villages. The nearest major airports are in Newquay and Exeter, both around an hour’s drive away.

Parking

Parking is available at Cotehele House, Morwellham Quay, Kit Hill, and along the Tamar Trails. Villages such as Calstock and Gunnislake have public car parks near the river.

Dining

The Tamar Valley is home to cosy pubs and riverside cafés. The Tamar Inn in Calstock is a local favourite, serving hearty meals with views of the viaduct. Cotehele Barn Restaurant offers traditional Cornish dishes, while The Old Pump House Café at Lopwell Dam provides light bites by the water. For a fine dining experience, Horn of Plenty near Tavistock offers gourmet meals overlooking the valley.

Best Time to Visit

The Tamar Valley is stunning year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for walking and river activities. Autumn is particularly beautiful as the woodlands turn golden, while winter brings misty, atmospheric landscapes that highlight the area’s natural beauty.