Highlight • Natural
Hiking
5.0
(143)
Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve is a distinctive natural area nestled on the rugged coast of Cornwall, England, between the charming villages of Mousehole and Lamorna Cove. This unique reserve, sitting at an elevation of approximately 17 meters, is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is managed by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. It's renowned for its terraced cliffs, historic Victorian market gardens known as "quillets," and a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
Visitors consistently praise the reserve…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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June 26, 2019
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve
4.8
(72)
352
hikers
8.43km
02:22
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(41)
290
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(18)
101
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
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Max wind speed: 32.0 km/h
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Walks within Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve are generally considered moderate. The terrain includes a terraced cliff that slopes down to the sea, and the South West Coast Path runs through it. While not overly strenuous, some sections may involve inclines and uneven surfaces, making them suitable for most visitors with a reasonable level of fitness.
While the reserve offers a tranquil environment, specific routes designed for very young children or strollers are not explicitly marked. The paths, being part of the South West Coast Path, can be uneven and involve some gradients. Families with young children might find the shorter sections from Mousehole or Lamorna Cove more manageable, but it's best to be prepared for a natural, unpaved trail experience.
Yes, Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve can be a rewarding destination for winter walks. The sheltered woodland, with its dense canopy of Monterey pines and cypresses, provides some protection from the elements. However, paths can become muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Always wear appropriate waterproof footwear and layers. The reserve's unique fungi, including the earth star fungus, can be particularly interesting to observe during the cooler months.
There is no dedicated car park directly at Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve. Access is primarily on foot via the South West Coast Path. Visitors typically park in nearby villages such as Mousehole or Lamorna Cove and then walk to the reserve. Parking in these villages can be limited, especially during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.
Kemyel Crease is home to a variety of wildlife. Due to its coastal location, you can often spot seabirds like fulmars and cormorants. The woodland areas attract common garden birds such as blackbirds and robins. In warmer months, look out for butterflies like the small skipper and marsh fritillary. The reserve is also notable for its diverse fungi, including the distinctive earth star fungus, particularly in summer and autumn.
Yes, Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve is dog-friendly year-round. It's a popular spot for dog walkers. To protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors, it is always recommended to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a leash, especially near cliff edges and during bird nesting seasons.
The 'quillets' are a significant historical feature of the reserve, referring to over 100 former Victorian market gardens. These small, terraced fields on the south-facing cliffs were used for growing crops like bulbs and potatoes, benefiting from Cornwall's mild climate. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the area's agricultural past, with remnants of the terraces still visible today.
The time it takes to walk through Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve depends on your starting point and pace. The South West Coast Path runs through the reserve, connecting it to Mousehole (approximately 1.6 km or 1 mile away) and Lamorna Cove. A leisurely walk exploring the reserve itself, combined with the coastal path sections, could take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much you choose to explore and if you include the walk from a nearby village.
Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve itself does not have any on-site cafes or visitor facilities. However, you will find amenities, including cafes, pubs, and public restrooms, in the nearby villages of Mousehole and Lamorna Cove. It's advisable to plan your visit to include stops in these charming villages for refreshments before or after your walk.
The flora at Kemyel Crease is unique due to a blend of native species and introduced plants from its market garden past. Victorian gardeners planted Monterey pine and Monterey cypress as windbreaks, creating a distinctive woodland. Fuchsia bushes also form hedges. In spring, the reserve bursts with wildflowers like bluebells, wood sorrel, and stitchwort, while the cliffs display thrift and campion. The diverse fungi, including the rare earth star fungus, also contribute to its botanical interest.
While the South West Coast Path runs linearly through Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve, it is possible to create circular routes by combining sections of the coastal path with inland footpaths or by walking to the reserve from Mousehole or Lamorna Cove and returning via a different route or public transport if available. Hikers often enjoy walking from one village to the reserve and then continuing to the other village, making for a varied coastal experience.