General Information General Information Tamar Valley Diary Tamar Valley Diary
Tamar Valley Festival Tamar Valley Festival An Introduction to the Tamar Valley
Area Breathtaking scenery and a rich & varied wildlife The Tamar Valley is an
area rich in beauty and history, possessing some of the finest scenery in the
West Country. The Estuary is an important haven for wildlife, such as the avocet
and little egret. The valley of the river Tamar - and its tributaries, the Tavy
and Lynher - is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - for full
details visit the AONB website. Great walking country, with river and train trips
Explore the area by train on the scenic Tamar Valley Line, by boat on the Tamar
Passenger Ferry or pleasure cruises from Plymouth, by car or on foot on the extensive
network of local footpaths - there's a route to suit everyone - plus two on-road
circuits for cyclists. Interesting villages and bustling country towns The valley
is marked by four ancient towns: Launceston in the North - with its steam railway
and Norman castle; Tavistock to the East - gateway to Dartmoor with daily pannier
market for food and crafts; Callington in the West - with its unusual mural trail,
and Saltash - best known for Brunel's Royal Albert Bridge, now partnered by the
impressive road bridge. Many of the villages also have their own guides and walking
trails. Fascinating mining heritage and a rich agricultural history The distinctiveness
of the Valley has been shaped by both time and people. Mining thrived here from
medieval times, exploiting silver and tin reserves - but it was copper in the
1800's which made the greatest impact. In today's tranquillity, it is hard to
imagine that at the height of the mining boom there were over 100 mines along
the river. Atmospheric chimneys and ruins throughout the valley serve as a reminder
of this industrial past. Morwellham grew as an inland port to serve the mines,
and today has been brought back to life as a living history museum, offering you
a taste of Victorian life. The river has been the official border between Devon
and Cornwall since Saxon times. It was a vital trade link for the mining industry,
and for agriculture and horticulture. Produce from the fertile valley slopes was
transported to Plymouth and beyond, and returning boats brought lime and "dock
dung" back to the many quays dotted along its length, for use on the farms. Beautiful
historic houses and glorious gardens Today the valley has many fine houses to
visit, including medieval Cotehele House, Buckland Abbey - the home of Sir Frances
Drake, and Mount Edgcumbe House on the Rame peninsula, plus a thousand year old
castle at Launceston. There are great gardens open to the public, such as the
Garden House at Buckland Monachorum, and Endsleigh at Milton Abbot. Plenty of
attractions and activities You will also find many attractions and activities
- family fun at the Donkey Park; railway history at the Tamar Belle Heritage Centre
and Launceston Steam Railway; sailing with "Tamar Daysail", guided walks with
"On Your Left", and horse riding. Distinctive local foods, arts and crafts The
Tamar Valley offers opportunities to sample and take home locally produced food
and drink - visit one of the Farmers' Markets at Tavistock, Stoke Climsland, Callington
and Delaware. Skilled artists and craftspeople produce a wide range of beautiful
and fascinating work for sale. Great pubs, cafes and restaurants Finally, relax
and enjoy tasty food and drink - from simple snacks to gourmet meals - at local
pubs and restaurants. And no visit to the area would be complete without at least
one traditional cream tea! Looking for more information? If you would like to
find out more about recreation in the Tamar Valley, click on the suggestions on
the "Days Out" section of the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
website: topics include: Walking in the Tamar Valley Cycling in the Tamar Valley
Exploring by Rail & Bus Getting around on the River Kit Hill Country Park You
can also view a programme of events in the Tamar Valley under the "Events" menu
Direct links to this "Days Out" information sheets (in Adobe Acrobat format) are
also avaialble here: 1. A suggested Day Out on the river and by train 2. A suggested
Day Out by ferry and on foot 3. A suggested Day Out on foot, the ferry and the
train 4. Days Out with town and village trails 5. Days Out with houses and Gardens
6. Days Out with art 7. Days Out with railways 8. Days Out with historic interest
9. Days Out with industrial archaeology 10. Days Out with wildlife 11. Days Out
with children And finally… Help us to keep the Tamar Valley special …. be a green
visitor 1. Do not disturb any livestock, keep your dog under close control and
leave gates as you find them. 2. Take your litter home and recycle if possible.
3. Do not disturb wild animals, birds or flowers. 4. Whether you are walking,
cycling or driving, take special care on country roads. 5. If possible leave your
car at home and take the bus. If you do bring a car, use the local car park /
designated places. 6. Buy locally produced goods, including food and souvenirs.
Support local shops, garages and other local services. Note: Ex-mining sites can
be dangerous - please keep to marked footpaths and respect warning notices. Some
sites and attractions are privately-owned - please respect the landowners' privacy.
Administrators Log-in Website of TAVATA - the Tamar Valley Tourism Association