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Luxulyan Valley and Prideaux Woods


Site description

Luxulyan Valley is a dramatic, heavily wooded, steep sided valley. Close to St Blazey, through which the River Par flows. The Valley retains an industrial and natural heritage of international and national importance. It was designated as part of the World Heritage Site in 2006. The valley’s mining heritage represents the physical manifestation of one man’s vision. Joseph Treffry's (1782-1850) vision was to exploit the valley’s mineral resources. Remains include the Treffry Viaduct, granite mine buildings. As well as later 20th century concrete structures, leats, tramways, mineshafts, adits and a waterwheel pit.

Both copper mining and then the later china clay processing industry are side-by-side.

Wildlife to look out for

There is so much wildlife to look out for. To name a few: Greater Horseshoe Bat, Lesser Horseshoe Bat, Pipistrelle Bat. As well as Bullfinch, European Otter, Song Thrush and Spotted Flycatcher.

Habitats include

  • Woodland
  • Mature broadleaved Carmears Wood is classified as Semi-natural Ancient Woodland
  • Old oak coppice
  • Paddocks
  • Watercourses

Facilities

  • Wheel Pit in Luxulyan Valley
  • 2 small car parks at Black Hill and Ponts Mill
  • Unmade paths and tramways totalling about 7 km
  • There are no toilet facilities on site.

Grid reference

SX 05599 57262, SX 07418 55993

Further information

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