Cornish Walks - Luxulyan Valley
Discover Cornwall Beyond the Beaches: A Hidden Gem Walk Through the Luxulyan Valley
Cornwall may be famed for its sun-drenched beaches and dramatic coastlines, but inland lies a different kind of beauty—one that's mysterious, lush, and steeped in history. If you’re seeking a truly immersive walking experience in Cornwall away from the crowds, the Luxulyan Valley walk delivers peace, heritage, and natural splendour in equal measure.
Crossing the Treffry Viaduct
The Luxulyan Valley Walk: A Hidden Treasure in Inland Cornwall
A Lesser-Known Walking Route with Rich Rewards
Forget the main roads and seaside rush—head inland from Par, just off the A390, and you’ll find Ponts Mill, the starting point of an unforgettable circular hike through the Luxulyan Valley and along the Saint's Way. This area is a designated World Heritage Site and one of Cornwall’s best kept secrets.
Interesting earthworks outside Luxulyan
Walk Overview: Facts at a Glance
Route: Ponts Mill → Treffry Viaduct → Luxulyan Village → Saint's Way via Prideaux Woods → St Blazey → Ponts Mill
Distance: Approx. 7 miles (11.3 km)
Trail Conditions: Sometimes muddy; moderate difficulty
Recommended Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 107
Type: Circular walk
Highlights: Treffry Viaduct, industrial heritage, woodland trails, hill fort, distant views of the Cornish Alps
Through the Ancient Woods of the Luxulyan Valley
Begin your walk near the quaintly named “Porcupine” and cross into the Luxulyan Valley—a wooded ravine full of birdsong and beauty, especially during autumn when the leaves turn to gold. The trail runs northwest through ancient oak and beech woods, passing remnants of Cornwall’s industrial past.
Treffry Viaduct: Cornwall’s Industrial Icon
A key highlight is the Treffry Viaduct—a breathtaking granite structure towering 89 feet high and stretching 650 feet in length. Built between 1839 and 1842 by Joseph Treffry, this historic feat of engineering was designed to carry both water and horse-drawn tramways to power local mines and quarries. The viaduct’s 10 grand arches and massive granite base make it one of Cornwall’s most important industrial monuments.
You can even walk across the top of it—though that requires a short detour up the valley sides.
Discover the Village of Luxulyan
After following the trail under the viaduct, you’ll emerge from the trees and head up a quiet country lane to reach the charming village of Luxulyan. The village lends its name to luxulyanite, a rare Cornish granite. Don't miss the ancient church dedicated to Saints Ciricius and Julitta, possibly built from this very stone.
From here, pick up the Saint’s Way, a historic pilgrim path that leads south through open countryside with sweeping views of the Cornish Alps—the strange white peaks formed from china clay mining spoil.
Prideaux Woods and the Hill Fort Above Warren Wood
The route skirts the impressive Prideaux Estate and enters Prideaux Woods, offering glimpses of manicured landscapes reminiscent of the English shires—an unexpected and graceful contrast to rugged moorland or coast.
Prideaux Place
Further along, the path passes an ancient hill fort above Warren Wood, another reminder of the region’s long and layered history.
Final Stretch: Returning to Ponts Mill
After descending into St Blazey, there's a short paved section along the Tywardreath Highway, followed by a final quiet lane leading back to Ponts Mill, where your journey began. While this specific loop offers plenty, there are countless variations of this walk, each revealing a different facet of this magical valley.
Practical Tips and Suggestions
Footwear: Sturdy walking boots recommended, especially after rain
Best Season: Autumn for colour, spring for wildflowers
Facilities: Limited – bring water and snacks
Alternative Routes: Several – the Friends of Luxulyan Valley website offers great suggestions: www.luxulyanvalley.co.uk
If you’ve discovered a better variation of the walk or want to share your own experience, feel free to email me at walks@martinhesp.co.uk
