Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape

A Comprehensive Guide to the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape

The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the dramatic history of the region’s mining industry. Stretching across the rugged Cornish coast and into the heart of the Tamar Valley, this area offers a unique glimpse into centuries of human ingenuity and the enduring impact of mining on the landscape.

This guide will delve into the fascinating aspects of Cornwall and West Devon, exploring its cultural significance, historical attractions, and natural beauty, all shaped by the legacy of mining:

A Journey Through Time:

  • The Cornish & West Devon Mining Landscape is a testament to the region’s rich past in mining. From tin mines to copper mines, and even granite quarries, this area was once the heart of the global mining industry.
  • Industrial Revolution Legacy: The Cornish landscape, especially, played a crucial role in fueling the Industrial Revolution due to its abundant deposits of tin and copper.

History Carved into the Earth:

  • The “Heart” of the Mining Landscape: Both Cornwall and Cornwall & West Devon’s rugged terrain and vast mineral reserves have left a lasting impact on the landscape.
  • Historic Sites: Explore remnants of this industrial heritage, including:
    • Abandoned mine shafts: Many dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into the past and serving as reminders of the industry’s importance to Cornwall.
    • Wheal Martyn: This historic tin mine offers interactive exhibits and tours showcasing the history of china clay mining in Cornwall.

A Landscape of Industry and Innovation:

  • Industrial Sites: Discover the iconic engine houses, winding gear, and other structures that stand as powerful symbols of the industrial past.
  • Mining Heritage: Explore the fascinating history of tin and copper mining in the region:
    • Learn about the Cornish miners: The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is a great place to learn about the lives of the people who worked the mines, their techniques, and the impact they had on the landscape.

Exploring the Mines:

  • Tin Mining:
    • Cornwall: Visit historic sites like the Geevor Tin Mine, which offers guided tours through a real mine and exhibits showcasing the challenges and rewards of mining in Cornwall’s harsh environment.
    • Penzance: Explore the abandoned mines on the outskirts of this charming town, learn about the Cornish Mining Boom and its legacy.

The Mines Today:

  • A Legacy of Mining: The landscape is a fascinating mix of industrial history, natural beauty, and social history.

The West Country’s Mining Heritage:

  • Mining Heritage Sites:
    • Geevor Tin Mine: This historic mine offers a glimpse into the lives of miners in the past and present.
    • Wheal Owles: Located near Redruth, this mine showcases the early days of mining in Cornwall.
    • The Levant Mine and Beam Engine: Experience the power of a 19th-century Cornish beam engine at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History Beyond the Mines:

  • Cornish Culture: The region’s heritage extends beyond its industrial past. Immerse yourself in the rich culture:
    • Traditional Mining Communities: Explore the historical significance and the impact mining had on the social fabric of Cornwall and West Devon.
    • Penzance to St Ives: Discover a historic route that connects the coastal town with its unique cultural heritage.

Beyond Tourism:

  • Sustainability: Learn about how the region is working to preserve its industrial past while embracing sustainable practices for future generations.

A Journey Through History:

  • The Cornish Mining Trail: Explore the historical mines and mining-related sites along this scenic route, offering insights into the industry’s impact on the landscape and its history.
  • Industrial Archaeology: Discover the fascinating world of industrial archaeology through:
    • Guided Tours: Participate in guided tours to understand the context of the mining landscapes and the stories behind them.

Planning Your Visit:

  • Best Time to Visit: The weather in Cornwall can be unpredictable, but the best time for a pleasant visit is typically during the summer months (June-September) when temperatures are warmer and days are longer.
  • Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the sites you wish to visit. Some mine sites are accessible by car, while others may require hiking or navigating rough terrain.

Accommodation & Food:

  • Hotels, B&Bs, and Camping Sites: Cornwall offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels on the coast to charming bed and breakfasts in quaint villages, there’s something for everyone.
  • Traditional Cornish cuisine: Enjoy delicious local dishes like Cornish pasties (savory pastries filled with meat and vegetables), seafood chowder, and cream teas while you explore the region.

Transportation:

  • Public Transportation: Consider utilizing Cornwall’s public transportation system, which includes buses and trains, to travel between various sites.
  • Car: Driving is a popular way to explore the region, but be prepared for narrow roads and steep hills.
  • Cycling & Walking: Cornwall offers scenic cycling and walking routes through its beautiful countryside and along the coast.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Mines: Learn about the history of mining in the region by visiting a preserved mine site like Geevor Tin Mine.
  • Go for a Hike: Discover the stunning natural beauty of Cornwall and West Devon’s former mining areas while hiking through picturesque landscapes and villages.
  • Take a Mine Walk Tour:

Things to consider:

  • Weather: Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before planning your trip.
  • Accessibility: Some sites are accessible by car, but parking can be limited.
  • Fitness: Be prepared for physical exertion on hikes.
  • Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the sites, as some may require advance booking or specific transportation needs

Historical Sites:

  • The Levant Mine & Beam Engine: The engine house at this World Heritage Site is a reminder of the harsh conditions in which Cornish miners worked and lived.
  • Mining Museums: Explore other historical sites in Cornwall and West Copper Country, such as the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro, which features exhibits on the history of mining in the region.

The “Piskie” Trail:

  • Explore the Cornwall & West Devon Mining Landscape: This area is a World Heritage Site due to its unique role in the Industrial Revolution and the rich history it holds.
  • Experience the Past: Discover the remnants of the past, from abandoned mines and engine houses to the abandoned mine shafts that dot the landscape.

Things to do on the “Piskie” Trail:

  • Visit the Cornish Mining Trail: Explore the history of the region through its many mining sites.
  • Learn about the History of Mining: Discover the fascinating stories of the miners who lived and worked in this area, shaping the landscape and its future.
  • Visit the Geevor Tin Mine: Experience a preserved historic mine and learn about the process of extracting tin from the ore.

Cycling & Walking:

  • Explore the Trails: Rent a bike or go for a walk through the abandoned mines and mining communities of Wheal Owles, Cornwall.
  • Enjoy the Views: The “Piskie” Trail is not just about the history of mining, it’s also about the breathtaking scenery of the Cornish coast.

Cycling:

  • Explore the Cycle Routes:

  • Safety: Remember to prioritize safety and wear appropriate gear when cycling or walking on the trails.

  • Respect for Nature: Stay on designated paths, avoid littering and pack out any trash you generate.

  • Accessibility: Some sections of the “Levant” Mine Trail are accessible by wheelchair, but others are not. Be sure to check the accessibility information before planning your trip.

Things to remember:

  • Book in Advance:
  • Weather Awareness: Remember that the weather in Cornwall can be unpredictable and pack for all conditions.
  • Be Respectful: Respect the trails and the history they represent.

Other Activities:

While exploring the “Mining” landscape, consider these other activities:

  • Beaches & Coastline: Relaxing on the beaches, exploring the stunning coastline, and enjoying the coastal scenery are popular in Cornwall.
  • Coastal Walks: Enjoy scenic walks along the coast and through the countryside.
  • Cycling Trails: Explore the region’s mining history and picturesque landscapes by bike.

Enjoy the Cornish Cuisine:

  • Food & Drink: Indulge in a traditional Cornish pasty, fresh seafood, or visit a local pub for a hearty meal and a pint of ale.

Local Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Traditional Cornish Fare: Try the “Trelawney” Arms pub for authentic Cornish food and drink.
  • Food Festivals:

Experience the “Piskie” Spirit:

  • Explore the Landscape:

Remember: This is a fictionalized example of a travel itinerary. You’ll need to do more research and personalize it with specific details about the “Levant” Mine and the local area, including:

  • Accessibility information: Consider the difficulty level of the trails you want to visit and choose routes that are suitable for your desired experience.

Coastal Adventures:

  • Cornwall’s Coastal Path:

  • Cycling: The South West Coast Path offers stunning views along the rugged coastline.

Exploring the “Levant”

  • History & Heritage: The South West Coast Path offers a chance to enjoy breathtaking sea views and explore historical sites like the Poldark mine.

Beyond the Mine:

  • Coastal Towns: Explore Cornwall’s charming coastal towns, like St Ives or Port Isaac, which offer a variety of “coastal” experiences.
  • Local Culture:

Getting to know the Cornish Miners:

  • Cycling: The “Piskie” Trail offers breathtaking views and challenging terrain.

Accessibility & Accessibility Information: The South West Coast Path is a long-distance walking route, but it’s not for everyone.

Food & Drink Experiences in Cornwall:

  • Traditional Pubs: Enjoy a pint of Cornish ale and sample local delicacies like “stargazy pie” or “pillows” (a type of bread pudding)

Cycling the Coast:

  • Coastal Path Activities:

  • Explore the South West Coast: The “Levant” Mine is now a museum, so you can learn about its history and the challenges faced by the miners.

  • Cycling Trails:

  • Natural Beauty: Explore the stunning natural beauty of Cornwall’s coastline.

**Beyond the “Levant”

  • Historical Adventures:

  • Experience the “Piskies”: These are the legendary Cornish creatures that are said to be mischievous and to inhabit abandoned mines.

Remember: This itinerary is a starting point, you can customize it based on your interests and time constraints.