A Guide to Waterfalls in Cornwall

Cornwall's rugged coastlines, rolling moors and lush valleys provide the perfect setting for spectacular waterfalls. The county boasts an array of cascading delights from gentle trickles hidden within silent woodlands to raging torrents crashing onto rocks below. This guide explores the incredible diversity of waterfalls found across Cornwall.

Weather & Geography

Cornwall's mild climate and elevated topography shape the ideal conditions for breathtaking waterfalls to form. The peninsula benefits from consistent levels of rainfall which, when combined with varied land heights delivers the vital formula needed for spectacular cascade creation. From the rugged Bodmin Moor in the east with its high ground and ample precipitation levels to the many undulating valleys intersecting Cornwall's spine, flowing water proves a consistent force crafting the landscape over millennia.

Coastal Waterfalls

It is Cornwall's distinctive coastline that gives rise to the most dramatic waterfall displays. Relentless pounding from Atlantic rollers exploits fractures in the imposing sea cliffs, creating inlets and caves with blowholes. These act as compressed geysers, blasting water high into the air when waves collide.

Rising sea levels have also left valleys flooded, creating powerful displays as river waters hang over new coastal precipices. Visitors flock to marvel at famous falls like Pentargon Waterfall as it thunders directly onto the beach. Yet dozens more lie hidden, waiting to be discovered along Cornwall’s 416 miles of enchanting coastline between sheltered coves and towering headlands.

Moorland Waterfalls

Inland, the harsh granite moorland terrain also proves conducive to stunning cascades flowing over eroded rock steps. Peatland bogs retain vast reserves of rainfall, releasing them steadily via rivers and streams which traverse the hills. Slate valleys orientate the flow while sudden changes in gradient give rise to small, pretty falls alongside surging high-energy torrents carving out deep Golitha Falls.

Woodland Waterfalls

Cornwall's mild climate enables temperate woodlands carpeted with mosses, ferns and lichens to thrive. Lush oaks line riverbanks, creating magical, verdant scenes as clear waters cascade gently over rocks draped in lush green hues. Tranquil spots like Dupath Well capture the imagination, their fairy glens transporting visitors back through the ages when such sites held deep spiritual importance. Even today, this rich heritage persists with legends of enchanted wells and their healing waters still woven through local folklore.

Set within a mystical river valley near Tintagel, St Nectan's Glen waterfall enthrals visitors with its delightful natural charms and rich legend. This atmospheric 60-foot cascade possesses an endearing tranquillity; its soothing waters flowing past fairy bridges and flourishing fauna.

The Magic Within St Nectan's Glen

According to legend, St Nectan settled amongst these verdant valley slopes during the 6th century, using the therapeutic waters to heal believers. Centuries later; remnants of this rich history are still evident throughout the atmospheric glen from its Celtic crosses to holy healing well.

Today visitors continue to cherish St Nectan's serene ambiance. The delightful, wooded habitat supports abundant wild garlic lining pathways down to the twin falls. Stepping stones allow visitors to cross between idyllic small waterwheels as crystal waters babble gently over a rocky riverbed draped in vibrant green hues.

Walking Routes Around St Nectan’s Waterfall

A self-guided trail from the excellent on-site café treats visitors to diverse river scenes. Heading upstream reveals views of the pretty lower cascade before crossing a charming wooden bridge. The path then winds behind the second waterfall, opening into 'St Nectan’s Kieve'; a stunning hidden rocky cavern.

Following the river downstream completes a full circuit of St Nectan's magical charms. Woodland waterwheels, fairy bridges and wishing wells reveal themselves at every turn; each adding to the valley's wholesome, peaceful atmosphere.

For more exertion, adventurous walkers can join the magnificent Saints’ Way trail traversing farmlands above St Nectan’s Glen. The lengthy path follows the spine of Cornwall passing Neolithic monuments, wild moorlands and rugged coastlines.

Practical Visitor Information

Entry costs £8 per adult with annual passes available. The inviting café provides light lunches and legendary Cornish cream teas all day. Visitors should note the glen remains open throughout winter however trails close occasionally following storms. Therefore, checking conditions in advance proves important. For smaller crowds and optimal photography conditions, early mornings and late afternoons work best.

Nestled within ancient woodland near Callington, the enchanting Dupath Well and its fairy-like waterfall lie secluded amongst the mossy eaves of Dupath Wood. This magical site overlooking the River Lynher offers visitors a window into Cornwall's mystical past.

Local legends telling of the well's romantic clairvoyant powers continue to draw people today. On Halloween night, peering into the still waters reportedly reveals your future lover's face. Yet Dupath’s beauty alone provides reason enough to explore its timeless natural charms.

Dupath Well's Peaceful Setting

Records dating back to the 17th-century confirm Dupath Well originally served Callington as an important water source. Approaching from the north, you’re greeted by a delightful, enclosed waterfall cascading through the oak woodland. Its graceful ribbon falls end in a shallow frothing pool lined with lush green hues.

Further downhill, steps built generations ago descend down to the secluded well. Granite walls channel spring waters into a large basin cut directly into the rock. Logs and ribbons attached to overhanging trees reveal this practice of making wishes at 'clootie wells' still continues today.

Walking Routes Through Dupath Wood

A tranquil network of woodland paths allows visitors to soak up Dupath’s magical charms through scenic forest walks. Starting downhill from Darite, trails pass medieval crosses and farm ruins, crossing pretty brooks via stepping stones.

Pausing at the waterfall allows you to admire its smooth descending arc before visiting the ancient well. Continue looping uphill through the gnarled oaks back to Darite or follow signs downhill to the Cornish Arms pub, located fittingly beside another fairy fall.

Throughout spring, carpets of bluebells complemented by white anemone flowers create delightful woodland scenes. Dappled light playing through the trees provides an ever-changing display.

Nearby Sites & Attractions

After enjoying Dupath’s calming waterfall haven, head north to explore the roaring Golitha Falls cascade cutting through Draynes Wood near St Neot. Or for a change of scenery, walk through the open grasslands of South Hill nature reserve to admire the sweeping views across this elevated ridge.

Looking to discover more of East Cornwall’s mining heritage? Nearby Callington hosts some fine Tudor architecture along with scenic forest trails around Crow's Nest Park. And just downhill lies the Tamar Valley's atmospheric Halton Quay harbour, with its distinctive Jubilee retaining wall sculpture.

Perched along cliffs near the popular holiday town of Polzeath, Pentireglaze Haven hosts an incredible waterfall phenomenon. While just a modest 10-metre cascade, its location directly overlooking Pentireglaze Beach creates eye-catching drama as foaming waters collide with Atlantic swells below.

Extreme Tidal Conditions

The falls' explosive drama owes much to the extreme tidal conditions found along this exposed section of Cornwall's north coast. Pentire Point creates a vulnerable headland facing the full brunt of Atlantic storm waves. At high tide these giant rollers smash against the cliffs, compressing air inside cracks and caverns.

The pressure builds until a wave impact triggers a violent blast of air projecting water out from a hidden blowhole behind the cliff waterfall. This unique event occurs sporadically at peak tides, shooting huge white geysers out that shock unsuspecting spectators.

Coastal Footpaths & Lookouts

As the tide recedes, conditions allow visitors to view Pentireglaze waterfall's full height cascading down towards the ocean. For the best perspectives overlooking this dynamic coastal fall, follow Cornwall's renowned Southwest Coast Path towards neighbouring Pentire Head.

The route crosses fields to reach a WWII lookout shelter whose elevated position reveals stunning waterfall vistas framed perfectly by the rugged headlands and sweeping bay. Just be sure to time your arrival an hour or so either side of high tide for the most dramatic displays.

Practical Information for Visitors

Given the remote coastal location, accessing Pentireglaze waterfall does involve a moderately strenuous walk. While theoretically reachable directly from the beach, visitors would be wise to visit only at low tide while being ever vigilant for rogue waves.

For a shorter, safer waterfall experience, try the pretty Pontsmill cascade located just minutes from Pentireglaze near Rock. Set amidst a flourishing oak woodland, its gentle bubbling brook cascades roadside below the historic Old Stile House inn.

Nestled within the enchanting Minster Valley near Boscastle, this trio of waterfalls showcase the area's magical charms. From dainty ribbons to raging torrents, exploring these falls treats you to diverse waterfall forms amid lush woodland surroundings.

The Waterfalls Trail

Minster Valley holds over half a dozen waterfall cascades, with three standouts being St Nectan’s Kieve, Minster Falls, and Specks Woodland cascade. Visitors can access these via four walking routes of varying difficulty - the most popular being the moderate 2-mile waterfall trail.

Starting riverside in the National Trust's delightful riverside garden, it first leads to the charming St Nectan's Kieve. This petite fall shoots through a narrow slit in the rock into a deep stone basin, shrouded in verdant foliage.

Further upstream, the trail crosses flower-strewn meadows towards 60-foot Minster Falls. Crashing down through ancient oak woods, its thundering waters end in frothing rapids; a true cascade highlight.

Nearby Attractions & Sites

No visit to Minster Valley is complete without lunching at the National Trust’s adorable riverside tearoom. Tuck into Cornish cream teas in the peaceful garden beside soothing waterwheel cascades. Kids will adore spotting mini-beasts around the pond or getting hands-on in the nature discovery zone.

Next, wander downhill into Boscastle's famously beautiful harbour, stopping at another cascading waterfall just above the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. At low tide, intrepid walkers can access a hidden beach beneath the twin headlands for unrivalled coastal views.

Nearby cliff walks also reward visitors with dramatic vistas taking in Pentargon waterfall as its waters pour relentlessly into the sea.

Nestled along the picturesque Saints’ Way coast-to-coast trail, St Columb Major village holds a delightful circular waterfall walk suitable for all ages. The 2-mile loop follows the charming Trevaylor Stream through flower-strewn meadows and peaceful oak woods out towards Cornwall’s rugged northern coastline.

The Circular Walking Route

Starting from the village centre, quiet lanes lined with wildflowers lead down into the Trevaylor valley. Here the modest Splat Pool waterfall makes a pretty first impression, cascading gently beneath the trees.

Crossing the wooden footbridge, the trail emerges into sunny meadows overflowing with colourful blooms in summer. Cattle graze calmly as walkers traverse the paddocks towards alluring 30-foot Mill Pool waterfall. This charming feature comes complete with two subtle cascades that perfectly complement the delightful rural surroundings.

Beyond Mill Pool waterfall, the route enters mature mixed woodlands overflowing with bluebells and wild garlic during spring. Stepping stones allow safe passage across the lively stream towards peaceful Cadgwith Pool; a secretive waterfall spot to rest awhile.

Family Friendly Appeal

With its easy terrain, adorable cascades and happy ambience, the St Columb Major waterfall trail caters perfectly for family adventures. Kids will enjoy paddling in rock pools, picnicking beside grassy verges and scouring the oak woods for wildlife from fish to kingfishers.

The walk also eventually links up with Mawgan Porth beach should parents wish to combine idyllic nature with seaside holiday facilities. Just remember to pack sturdy footwear whatever time of year when waterfall walking in Cornwall.

Experiencing Nearby Newquay

Situated just minutes inland from tourism hotspot Newquay, the St Columb Major waterfall trail complements the excitement of Cornwall’s premier resort town perfectly. Must-see attractions include Newquay Zoo’s wild exhibits, the heritage Great Western Beach railway line alongside thrill-seeking adventures like riding the huge flow rider wave machine at Water World aqua park.

Once satisfied, retire back to charming St Columb Major and its gentle waterfall appeal far removed from Newquay’s vibrant tourist scene. The 12th century church and pubs steeped in smuggling history also warrant exploring within the peaceful village.

Deep within the mysterious Bodmin Moor near Altarnun village lies an enchanting, wooded valley. Along its wild slopes hides the legendary Altarnun Holy Well alongside an ethereal waterfall - both sites rich in myths and pagan lore. For centuries, worshippers have revered these 'magical waters’ rising from within the moorland granite.

History & Legend

Dating back to Saxon times, records reference Altarnun’s 'healing waters and visions'. Throughout Medieval times the remote well held deep spiritual importance for local villages relying on its life-force to survive harsh winters amidst the barren moors.

Approaching today, an otherworldly charm still exudes throughout the valley surrounding Altarnun’s charming historic church. Along an evocative forest trail, you are treated first to a delicate curtain waterfall cascading magically through gnarled oaks and fern fronds into an inky pool. From here, channels divert water to the ancient well, it’s time-worn granite walls opening into a smooth basin for visitors to bathe sore limbs or sip the clean mineral-rich waters.

Colourful 'clooties' tied to overhanging trees reveal wishes made by modern-day pilgrims clinging to old pagan rituals. For them, the site's magical aura remains undiminished despite Christianity's arrival centuries ago.

Atmospheric Bodmin Moor Trails

The brooding beauty of Bodmin Moor shapes memorable hiking adventures around Altarnun. Strong walkers can venture uphill seeking out Bronze Age sites and huge granite tors peppering the bleak landscape towards Brown Willy summit.

Alternatively, follow the River Inny downstream on scenic woodland trails towards mystical Colliford Lake or Dozmary Pool; alleged site of Excalibur’s magical sword. Just stay alert crossing the moors as dusk falls when phantom wild hunt hounds are said to roam these parts!

With its breathtaking diversity of cascade forms, verdant river valleys and mystical woodlands, Cornwall provides a national showcase for spectacular waterfall experiences. Whether standing in awe before renowned displays like the roaring Golitha Falls or discovering secluded beauties like the graceful Dupath ribbon fall, adventures await around every turn.

The county's mild climate means waterfalls remain accessible year-round. Yet nothing compares to spring when bluebell carpets, bubbling streams and luxurious greens create picture-perfect scenes at locations like St Nectan's fairy Glen. Visitors should also schedule early mornings or late afternoons for smaller crowds and optimal reflections.

Waterfalls in Cornwall offer everything from family fun to rugged bucket-list encounters with nature at its rawest and most powerful. Yet a tranquil, revitalising peace flows through even the most thunderous falls here. So lose yourself to the calming sounds of rushing water cascading continuously as they have for millennia amidst some of Britain’s most magical untamed wilderness settings.