Explore where ancient woods meet tidewater
Always wear suitable clothing for weather conditions.
All paths are steep in places and may be slippery.
There is disabled access on a hard surface path from the Millpool gate to the old boatyard site only.
Unauthorised motor vehicles, off road biking, fires and camping are not allowed in Kilminorth Woods Local Nature Reserve.
If you have a dog with you please pick up and dispose of waste in the bin at the Millpool entrance to the Woods.
Mobile phone reception is limited in the woods. Download a map before starting your adventure!
Waymarked Paths
Follow the RED markers between Looe and Watergate on a circular route of about 3 miles. There is also a shorter, wider and more direct bridle path with use by cyclists and horse riders permitted. YELLOW and BLUE marked routes are short cuts linked to the red route.
The waymarked paths are regularly checked and cleared to maintain safe access, unlike the number of informal paths that also exist.
The Friends Suggest...
If you have half an hour... then walk along the river to the Old Boatyard and watch for wading birds.
If you have an hour... then walk part way along the Giant's Hedge then follow the blue route and return to Looe alongside the river.
If you have two hours... then walk along the river to Watergate and return by the same route. Look out for kingfishers.
The Giant's Hedge
The Giant's Hedge is the boundary of a post-Roman kingdom. Follow the road from the car park away from the river until it meets the footpath on the right.
The Old Boatyard
This old industrial site has returned to nature, but is quite different from the rest of the wood. Get a good view of the river here and look across to Trenant Woods.
Watergate
This hamlet is at the north end of Kilminorth Woods. It's also the tidal limit of the West Looe River. Watch carefully! You may catch sight of a kingfisher darting along the river, or sitting on a branch overlooking the river.
Spring Flowers
Enjoy bluebells, primroses and wood anemones flowering before the leaf canopy opens. Take photographs, but leave the flowers for others to enjoy.
Sessile Oaks
Look closely at the oak trees in autumn. The acorns are attached directly to the twigs, whereas the leaves have stalks. This is what makes them "sessile" oaks!
High tide, Low Tide
Watch the tide rise and fall, exposing and then covering the mud. Little egrets and oystercatchers poke around for food.
Groups or individuals planning their own activities in the Woods are reminded that all events should be registered with the Cornwall Council events team at least a month ahead. The links and form are on the Cornwall Council web site. This is not only to ensure all events are safely run and insured but to log how sites are used to help inform future funding decisions.