New stretch of South West Coast Path in Cornwall opens on the Helford

The National Trust and Natural England have announced the completion of a mile of brand-new coast path on the Helford.

The route, to the south of Gillan Creek, links the hamlets of Carne and Gillan. The new footpath replaces a section of road walking along a narrow, but busy, sunken lane.

Rachel Holder, lead ranger for the National Trust, said: "We think this new section of path is of huge benefit for walkers, whether locals out for a stroll, or long-distance walkers completing the whole South West Coast Path.

"The new route passes through tranquil creek-side woodland, goes by picturesque Tregithey Quay, and then climbs through fields to take in fantastic views over the church at St Anthony, and along the coast towards Falmouth.

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"It is a lovely walk, and a great improvement on the former inland road route of the coast path.

"It’s been rewarding to see this project go from an idea, through to planning the best route, and completing the necessary works on the ground. This included clearing undergrowth, tree safety checks, building steps, and installing a granite bridge, work which has been grant funded by Natural England."

A new way marker at Tregithey Picture: National Trust / Seth Jackson

Lone Mouritsen, of Natural England’s coastal access team, said Cornwall had been a popular attraction for walkers enjoying the official National Trail Coast Path since the 1970s, but added: "That doesn't mean it can't be improved upon.

"Natural England identified the route near Gillan as one place where it could be improved and offer walkers a safer, closer experience to nature. With the new route falling across National Trust land, a partnership was formed. Natural England would plan and pay for the work if National Trust delivered and maintained it."

New coastal access rights will come into effect once works have been completed and the stretches officially opened. Until this happens, National Trust has allowed walkers access to the new route at Gillan Creek on a permissive basis.

The new section of path can be accessed from either Gillan or Carne, and is signed with oak way marker posts. However, there is no public parking available, other than in the lay-bys at the head of the creek, near the turn to St Anthony.

The partnership will be funding more upgrades to existing coast path sections in the south west over the coming years.