Menacuddle Chapel and Holy Well, Cornwall

We popped into the Holy Well and Chapel at Menacuddle, near St.Austell. The last time we were here was one year ago - how time flies!

Not a lot has changed. I won't go into the history of the chapel and well again, as I covered this on my previous post: The Secretive Menacuddle Holy Well and Chapel, Cornwall. 

The waterfall and river isn't so white on this visit. It is often coloured by china clay deposits in the area. Locally, therefore, it is known as the White River.

A few duotone photos of chapel and area.

Inside the small chapel, it appears clearer and cleaner than a year ago when it was filled with candles and various mementos.  I thought they gave the chapel more character and even a more holy feeling. Of course it is often said that Cleanliness is next to Godliness - so what do I know. Those words are from a 1778 sermon in 1778 by John Wesley.

All shipshape on the outside.

We wandered round the grounds as I couldn't think of any more suitable quotes! Lots of green, green grass … and a pond of sorts.

Some fine trees by the river.

A final look at the waterfall prior to moving on.

Always a pleasure to visit the chapel and, again, we were on our own while there.

The Flowers and Attractions of St.Austell Town Plus More Flowers

After some lovely weather, there was a change in the air as we went off on a walk. I noticed the flower in the photo above at the side of the road. On returning the plant was quite wet (below). So we decided to walk into St.Austell town.

It was still drizzling so not many people about. Even the pasty shop was empty!

The town's flower displays were damp too.

But a large mural was shining bright ...

… and the fish seemed happy enough in the rain.

Another flower display...

… and part of a large section of artwork featuring people through the ages associated with the town.

Eventually we arrived home and noticed the first dahlia were now flowering (2nd July).

Other flowers were doing as they ought this time of year ...

… and another dahlia had burst into flower - maybe not exactly burst, but there was one pompom on display.

A few more flowers …

Finally a neighbours garden with his palm trees - they grow okay in Cornwall because of the mild climate.

The Magical Harbour and Port at Charlestown, Cornwall

Another trip to Charlestown so I have tried to do a different set of photos. In the photo above you can see how the harbour is separated from the port by a gate with a bridge. Below are a couple walking over the bridge, with tall ships in the background.

We were at Charlestown mid morning - but any time is pasty time in Cornwall - as can be seen my the next photo.

There were a few people about ...

… even though it was overcast and quite chilly. The fisherman was quite well layered.

The young don't seem to feel the cold, especially when it's high tide and an opportunity to jump from the harbour wall. It's not really allowed - but it's a fun thing to do.

This girl took the backward route to the water.

There is a magical tunnel. If you dare to walk through you will be awarded with ...

… sunshine and a beautifully coloured sea. You might even fancy a dip!

Returning from the tunnel, the harbour and port can be seen, together with the dividing bridge, previously mentioned. I may visit Charlestown quite often, but never tire of the harbour and tall ships often in dock.

The Magnificent Coastline Near Gribbin Head, Cornwall

No doubt I have said so previously but I love the Cornish coast near Menabilly and Gribbin Head. Can't fully explain why but it's special to me.

It was a blue sky day so we decided to go for a walk, parking at Menabilly. There is a farmer's field here in which to park - though you have to put 50 pence in an old milk churn for your stay - a bargain at todays rates! The road leading to the field is quite narrow in places.

Near to the field is a track leading past the farmhouse to the coast. It's a fair distance to walk, but we saw a few friendly faces.

And some bales of straw.

On route the Gribbin Tower is often in view. Finally we reached Polridmouth Beach (pronounced Pridmouth). Only a few people about.

From here we walked east to the next small cove which is Daphne du Maurier territory. This is where she once lived and is also the setting for some of her books. Unfortunately what was her home cannot be seen.

The cove has sand and a view of the Gribbin Tower. Mind you, most views seem to feature the Gribbin.

Behind the cove there is an attractive lake belonging to what was once Du Maurier's home. During WW2 lights were fixed around the lake to confuse any enemy aircraft. 

Nearby Fowey was a port used for the build up to the D-Day landings. Over 2,000 American troops were based in the area.

By the lake is a cottage featured in Du Maurier's book Rebecca. While we were there the house had workmen busy getting the property decorated. I understand that it is now used to rent out to holiday makers.

From here we headed up to the top of the cliffs via the coastal path - certainly gets the heart pumping!

Once at the top the lovely town of Fowey can be seen and also the village of Polruan.

I decided, however, to have a break from taking photos as I just wanted to enjoy the scenery, good to switch off at times.

So here we are on the return journey showing the coastal footpath towards the Gribbin on the headland.

Such lovely views of the green fields and the sea.

Gribbin Head at its best with the blue sky, greenery, and the red and white of the tower.

And here we are back at Polridmouth Beach, from here it's a walk along the paths to our car. A very pleasant way to spend a few hours

See also
Walking to Gribbin Head Cornwall - Daphne du Maurier Country
The Wonderful Coastline At Menabilly - Daphne du Maurier Country