St Nectan's Waterfall - Image 1

St Nectan's Waterfall

Trethevy, United Kingdom•4.6(4.2k)•Country Park, Nature Reserve

Explore a stunning 60-foot waterfall nestled in a temperate Atlantic rainforest with woodland walks, ancient ivy-clad trees, and a café serving Cornish cream teas.

St Nectan's Glen is one of Cornwall's most unspoilt natural treasures, voted an area of outstanding natural beauty and designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rare plant specimens. The site's centrepiece is a magnificent 60-foot waterfall carved through Late Devonian slate by the River Trevillet, which has punched through the original kieve (basin) creating a breathtaking cascade through the valley. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a woodland walk through a temperate Atlantic rainforest, where ivy-clad trees and ferns line the banks of the River Trevillet as it makes its journey to the sea at Rocky Valley. The site is renowned as one of the UK's most spiritual locations, with legends of fairies, piskies, and spirits, accompanied by the soothing sounds of bird song and natural wildlife. The Tree of Life Café provides the perfect place to relax before or after exploring the waterfalls, offering Cornish cream teas, freshly ground coffee, homemade cakes, ice cream, and milkshakes. The venue is dog-friendly and welcomes families with children aged 5 and upwards, with special rates available. St Nectan's Glen combines natural beauty, wildlife discovery, and spiritual significance, making it an ideal destination for families seeking an enchanting outdoor experience.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 18:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 18:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 18:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 18:00
Friday: 09:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 09:00 – 18:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Tree of Life Café

Café offering Cornish cream teas, freshly ground coffee, homemade cakes, ice cream, and milkshakes

Hours: Open daily - check opening times page for latest information

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Google Reviews

4.6(4.2k reviews)
S
sue peers

sue peers

2 weeks ago

What a stunning place! Not good if you have mobility problems and some steps very steep. But once you are there it’s stunning. Would be great if there could limit the amount of people actually down by the water fall together. There was lots of children who was not quiet so you couldn’t take in the sounds. We didn’t stay long.

D
Deborah Teversham

Deborah Teversham

a month ago

Delighted to write this review, following our marriage in April, at St Nectan’s Glen and Waterfall. From start to finish the team were incredibly kind, caring, considerate and professional. Nothing was too much trouble, all our requests and requirements were met beautifully and we felt like we were in very good hands throughout the whole process. We were contacted frequently prior to the wedding, to ensure everything was on track. On the day, we were made to feel very relaxed, so that we could enjoy every minute of the wedding. The team were friendly and welcoming and we never had a moment’s worry. We were lucky that the sun shone for us on the day. The setting is incredibly beautiful and serene and made our special day everything we could possibly have dreamt of – and more. After the ceremony, we could linger at the waterfall for photographs as long as we wanted and were never made to feel that we had to hurry. With such incredible photo opportunities, this was much appreciated. We had a very small, intimate affair and our friends and family said that it was one of the best weddings they had ever been to. A special mention needs to made of Tanya, Tracey and Gareth, who all truly went above and beyond to ensure that our special day was the best it could possibly be – and it was. It was a fairy tale day and I have no hesitation in recommending St Nectan’s as a wedding venue. If you would like something a little different and close to nature – this is the place for you.

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Christy Rajan

Christy Rajan

2 months ago

The waterfall is good. You have to park the car at St Nectans waterfall car park with per day fee of GBP 3 for whole day payable by card or cash. The footpath to the waterfall is very scenic and it may take 20mins max to reach to waterfall entry point. For waterfall there is admission fees for adult and child (under 5yrs it’s free). The path is bit steep and slippery some places.. There is cafe and picnic spot as well.. There is alternative exit which you should be careful of vehicles..

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Mark Poley

Mark Poley

2 months ago

A special place, set in a lovely wooded valley. Do bring walking boots or walking Wellies as the footpath can be muddy and if you want to see the main waterfall, you will need to cross the stream, so a small towel could be useful if the stream is in full flow after recent rain. The car park is small £3 for all day, best to arrive early There's a £11 fee to go to the waterfall, which is a lovely place, especially if there's no one else there ( go early) Bedsides the Waterfall area, there's no charge for the river walk or hillside walks. There's a nice cafe with good indoor and out door seating.

B
Becky Palmer

Becky Palmer

3 months ago

A magical expirience, really lovely short walk to get to the facilities( aprox 30min from car park - can be unsteady in places, good shoes advised ) all along the river with beautiful wildlife. Loads of meditaion/peace spaces to sit and enjoy the nature. The cafe serves amazing food- we got the chicken wraps which were delicious (good value for money with chips, pasta, coleslaw and salad to acompany it) and some delicious cakes. The waterfall itself is breathtaking - a really nice space to sit with your thoughts( just be aware you may need to take a shallow paddle to get the best view of the falls )

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at St Nectan's Waterfall

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about St Nectan's Waterfall

Is St Nectan's Waterfall free to visit?

St Nectan's Waterfall is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is St Nectan's Waterfall suitable for?

St Nectan's Waterfall is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is St Nectan's Waterfall dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at St Nectan's Waterfall.

Is there parking at St Nectan's Waterfall?

St Nectan's Waterfall doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at St Nectan's Waterfall?

Yes — Tree of Life Café is on site at St Nectan's Waterfall. Café offering Cornish cream teas, freshly ground coffee, homemade cakes, ice cream, and milkshakes

Is St Nectan's Waterfall pushchair-friendly?

St Nectan's Waterfall isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at St Nectan's Waterfall?

St Nectan's Waterfall is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to St Nectan's Waterfall by public transport?

St Nectan's Waterfall isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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