Highlight • Natural
Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve
Hiking
4.9
(149)
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 for its tranquil, sheltered woodland that gently slopes towards the sea, providing a welcome respite on warmer days. The presence of majestic Monterey pines and Monterey cypress trees creates a unique atmosphere, while the reserve's abundance of fungi, including the striking earth star fungus, captivates nature enthusiasts. Many also appreciate the opportunity for birdwatching and the dog-friendly trails that make it an ideal spot for a leisurely outing.
Access to Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve is primarily on foot, with the iconic South West Coast Path weaving directly through its heart. Hikers can easily reach the reserve by walking approximately 1.6 km (1 mile) along the coastal path from Mousehole or from Lamorna Cove. The walks are generally considered moderate, offering a pleasant experience for most visitors. While specific parking information isn't always highlighted, the focus on pedestrian access from nearby villages suggests planning for a walk-in approach.
The best time to visit Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve depends on what you wish to experience. Spring transforms the woodland with vibrant wildflowers like bluebells, wood sorrel, and stitchwort, while autumn brings a fascinating display of fungi. The reserve offers excellent opportunities for walking and nature observation year-round, with the sheltered paths providing comfortable Kemyel Crease walks even in cooler weather. It's a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Exploring the reserve offers a tangible connection to its past, with the remnants of over a hundred Victorian market gardens providing a glimpse into a bygone agricultural era. These terraced "quillets" once cultivated crops like bulbs and potatoes, benefiting from Cornwall's mild climate. Beyond the historical gardens, visitors can spot diverse wildlife, from seabirds like fulmars and cormorants to various butterflies and common garden birds, making every visit a discovery.
Whether you're interested in the unique flora, the historical landscape, or simply a refreshing coastal walk, Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve offers a rewarding experience. Discover the best routes Kemyel Crease has to offer and plan your adventure using komoot, where you can find a variety of trails suitable for hikers and walkers of all levels. There are many Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve trails to explore, each promising a memorable journey through this special Cornish landscape.
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Tips
June 26, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve
4.7
(83)
380
hikers
8.43km
02:22
170m
170m
Embark on the Lamorna loop from Mousehole, a moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) hike that offers a diverse and challenging experience along the Cornish coast. With 550 feet (168 metres) of elevation gain and a typical duration of 2 hours and 21 minutes, this route takes you from the charming fishing village of Mousehole to the secluded Lamorna Cove. Expect varied terrain, including very rocky and overgrown coastal paths where you might need your hands for balance, alongside easier sections through fields and woodlands. You will enjoy dramatic cliff-edge vistas and expansive views over Mount's Bay, with St Michael's Mount visible in the distance.
This circular route is considered moderate-strenuous, requiring a good level of fitness due to frequent ups and downs and rugged surfaces. The coastal section, especially between Mousehole and Lamorna, can be muddy and involves large granite boulders, so wear appropriate walking shoes. The return leg often leads inland, providing a different perspective of the Cornish countryside. While the research does not specify trailhead access or parking details, planning for a full half-day outing is advisable given the trail's demands.
The Lamorna loop is notable for connecting historic villages and showcasing significant natural and industrial heritage. You will pass through the unique Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve, a sheltered woodland rich in Monterey pines and cypress. Along the approach to Lamorna, you can see the remains of the historic Lamorna quarries, which supplied granite for famous landmarks. This trail offers a blend of stunning coastal scenery, artistic heritage, and a glimpse into Cornwall's past, making it a distinctive hike in the region.
4.7
(52)
385
hikers
26.3km
07:32
600m
600m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(21)
112
hikers
13.2km
03:44
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
Weather
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Thursday 11 June
16°C
13°C
18 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical difficulty level of walks within Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.
Are there specific routes recommended for families with young children at Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.
Is Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve suitable for winter walks, and what are the conditions like?
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.
Where is the best place to park when visiting Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.
Are dogs allowed in Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve, and are there any restrictions?
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.
What are the historical 'quillets' at Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.
How long does it typically take to walk through Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.
Are there any cafes or facilities near Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.
What makes the flora at Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve unique?
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.
Are there any circular walks that include Kemyel Crease Nature Reserve?
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.