Helston on the Lizard Peninsula
formerly a cattle market and tin mining town is.situated between
Penzance and Falmouth and is the 2nd oldest town in Cornwall, the
oldest is thought to be Marazion. The town is situated on the east
bank of the River Cober which was tidal, before it was cut off from
the sea by Loe Bar in the 13th century.
Loe Pool
Loe Bar separates Cornwall's largest freshwater lake, The Loe, from
the sea. Midway between Porthleven and Gunwalloe, both the Loe and
Loe Bar are situated within the Penrose Estate, administered by
the National Trust.
Robert Fitzsimmons (Ruby Robert)
The first triple world boxing champion, was born and lived in Wendron
Street, the house is indicated by a plaque above the door.
The Grylls Monument
In Coinagehall Street, it was built by public subscription in 1834
in thanks to Humphry Millet Grylls, a local banker, who stopped
the closure of Wheal Vor, a local mine that employed over a thousand
people.
Henry Trengrouse
Born in Helston 1722-1854, invented the ‘Rocket’ life-saving
apparatus, an example is on display at Helston Folk Museum. He is
buried in the churchyard of St Michael's Church. Trengrouse Way,
a main thoroughfare in the town is named after him.
Coronation Boating Park & Lake
Man made lake where rowing boats can be hired in summer. There is
also a skate park close by the lake.
Events in Helston:
Furry Dance (Flora Day)
Held every year on May 8th unless that day falls on a Sunday or
Monday, when it is held on the preceding Saturday. The day begins
with the Early Morning dance at 7.00am. This is followed by the
ancient Hal-an-Tow, where St Michael slays the dragon. At 9.50 am.
the Children's Dance, all the local schools are involved. The Mid-day
dance commences at the stroke of 12 noon, the men in top hat and
tails and the ladies in their finest long dresses and hats. Tthe
final dance at 5.00 pm. Throughout the day there are many street
stalls and a funfair at the lower part of the town.
RNAS Culdrose Air Day
A great day out for all the family held in July. Home to approx.
100 aircraft including Merlin helicopters, Sea Kings and Hawk Jets.
Meet aircrew, flying displays, experience the military navy at work
Places to visit:
Flambards Experience - http://www.flambards.co.uk/
Theme park with exhibitions, a selection of rides all undercover.
Poldark Mine - http://www.poldark-mine.co.uk/
Wendron approx. 2 miles from Helston is this theme park, visitors
can explore underground into the old workings.
Helston Folk Museum
Originally designed as the town's Market House in 1837, at the front
of the building is a cannon salvaged from the wreck of the frigate
HMS Anson which foundered off Loe Bar in 1807. The Museum exhibits
are arranged over two floors and five separate halls.
The National Seal Sanctuary – http://www.sealsanctuary.co.uk/
Set in the picturesque Helford Estuary, by the village of Gweek,
is a busy rescue centre, its residents include Grey Seals, Common
Seals, Fur Seals, Patagonian & California Sea Lions, Penguins,
Otters, Goats, Sheep and Ponies.
Trevarno Estate and Gardens – http://www.trevarno.co.uk/
70 acres of gardens and grounds, formal, informal and woodland area,
ornamental lake with Victorian Boathouse. National Museum of Gardening
which features gardening antiques, memorabilia and ephemera.
Cornwall Tourist Information Office - http://www.visitcornwall.com/
|
