Walks from Helston guide features eight routes to explore

Walks from Helston features eight routes exploring the countryside and heritage of Helston and its surrounding areas, and was researched and written by Ollie Smith with design by Amy Morgan.

It was commissioned by the Helston Place Shaping Board and is published by Helston Community Interest Company.

In an interview with Discover Helston magazine, Ollie and Amy said: "Walks from Helston maps out eight walking routes from the town, ranging from short local walks to longer countryside rambles.

"The routes explore ancient ways, quiet corners, and the varied habitats that make this part of west Cornwall so distinctive."

The pair have lived in Helston since 2020, after graduating from Falmouth University.

Ollie studied marine and natural history photography, while Amy studied fine art and now works as a freelance creative assistant and artist, with a studio at CAST in Helston.

The walks encourage people to explore the kennels that carry water through the town, or follow paths once used by traders travelling between Gweek and Helston’s markets.

The authors said: "We hope people feel a stronger connection to what's on their doorstep.

"There are wonderful walking routes in all directions out of Helston, with some of the UK's rarest wildlife thriving within walking distance of the town centre."

One route, in particular, stood out during their research.

They said: "The variety of landscapes on the Rose-in-the-Bush route was a real surprise - from farmland to riverside woodland and even pockets of temperate rainforest."

They also shared one of the region's best-kept secrets.

They said: "The temperate rainforests north of Gweek are incredible.

"Moss-covered oaks and vines create an atmosphere that feels like another planet, especially in heavy rain."

Walks from Helston are available for £6.50 from CAST Café, The Bookshop in Helston, and the Museum of Cornish Life.