History and Heritage

The long and fascinating history of South East Cornwall can be traced back over 6,000 years to Trethevy Quoit, a burial chamber on the edge of Bodmin Moor. With several stone circles, standing stones and Iron Age hillforts, the area is rich in prehistoric remains. Many of the villages feature medieval farmhouses and cottages whilst the countryside is full of churches, many dating back to the 14th century.

In 2006 the mining landscape of Cornwall and West Devon was given World Heritage Status, bringing it alongside the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China. On Bodmin Moor and in the Tamar Valley many of these mining remains can still be seen, whilst the railways that took the ore from mine to seaport can still be travelled on. Crossing the Tamar at Saltash is Brunel's famous railway bridge linking Devon and Cornwall, a marvel of Victorian engineering. In 2009 the bridge celebrated 150 years since it was opened.

With the sea never far away the maritime heritage of the area is rich. Fishing, trade and leisure has taken place in the waters off the Cornish coast and left a long legacy. In Looe, some of the old fishing boats known as luggers can still be seen in the harbour and every couple of years are joined by similar vessels for the Lugger regatta (the next one will be held in 2011).

Across the area there are several museums where the story of this part of Cornwalls heritage is brought to life, for more information go to the TimeTrail website.

So don’t just think South East Cornwall is a place to visit for its beaches, there is much, much more…

The Book of Looe