St Nectan's Glen
A magical woodland sanctuary in Cornwall featuring a breathtaking 60-foot waterfall and a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
St Nectan's Glen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical woodland sanctuary in Cornwall featuring a breathtaking 60-foot waterfall and a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
"A little slice of heaven to walk into and spend time in."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The woodland path is steep and can be slippery. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Cold Dip
Many visitors take a bracing dip in the waterfall's pool. It's cold but invigorating! :cold_face:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St Nectan's Waterfall
Main waterfall
A breathtaking 60-foot cascade plunging into a deep, rocky basin. A truly magical and spiritual spot.
Woodland Walk
Path from car park to waterfall
An enchanting 30-minute hike through ancient, ivy-clad trees and ferns along the River Trevillet.
The Kieve
Base of the waterfall
The stunning plunge pool at the base of the waterfall, often described as a 'womb of nature'.
Meditation Room
Near the cafe
A serene space for quiet reflection, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the glen.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Woodland Wander
Admission and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The woodland path is steep and can be slippery. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Cold Dip
Many visitors take a bracing dip in the waterfall's pool. It's cold but invigorating! :cold_face:
Allow Plenty of Time
The walk and the site itself are worth savoring. Don't rush your visit. :clock1:
Check GPS Carefully
GPS might not lead you directly to the falls; park in the designated car park. :round_pushpin:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The woodland path is steep and can be slippery. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Cold Dip
Many visitors take a bracing dip in the waterfall's pool. It's cold but invigorating! :cold_face:
Allow Plenty of Time
The walk and the site itself are worth savoring. Don't rush your visit. :clock1:
Check GPS Carefully
GPS might not lead you directly to the falls; park in the designated car park. :round_pushpin:
Capture the Magic
Visit outside peak times for the best photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Enjoy the Cafe
A nice cafe at the top offers coffee, cakes, and sausage rolls. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St Nectan's Glen for its magical woodland walk and the stunning beauty of the waterfall. The spiritual atmosphere and the opportunity for a bracing dip in the 'kieve' are frequently highlighted as unique experiences. While the admission fee and the steepness of the path are noted, most agree the natural beauty and tranquil ambiance make it well worth the visit.
"Well worth a visit for a short walk through some beautiful countryside before reaching the waterfall. The waterfall itself is lovely. It may not be Niagara Falls but it's still nice to see and worth the trek. There is also a very nice little coffee shop at the waterfall site with ample outdoor seating. The car park is located in Trethevy but clearly labelled "St Nectans Waterfall car park""
Liam Beard
"St Nectan’s Waterfall is absolutely worth the visit if you're in Cornwall. Just be aware that the GPS location isn’t completely accurate - you can’t drive right up to the waterfall. You’ll need to park in the designated car park just before the right turn to the falls (only £3 for the whole day), and then enjoy a 30-minute walk through a stunning forest trail to reach the site.
The walk itself is part of the experience—peaceful, scenic, and filled with the sounds of nature. It’s quite steep in places and can be a bit slippery when wet, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip. The path is well-maintained, with railings where needed to keep it safe.
When you arrive, the site is clearly laid out with signs and staff to guide you. There’s a café, toilets, and a picnic area where you can take a break. The site also hosts meditation sessions, yoga classes, and retreats, and there’s even a dedicated meditation room.
Admission to the waterfall is £10 per person. The waterfall itself is beautiful and it's worth visiting."
Rosi Petkova
"It's a but if a hike from the car park but once your there it's a lovely place. Nice walk along the river to reach the waterfall. Great photo opportunities once your down at the base of the falls. Go outside of peak times for the best photos. Nice cafe at the top which serves great coffee, cakes and sausage rolls."
Andrew Hope
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Nectan's Glen is located near Tintagel in Cornwall. You'll need to park in the designated car park in Trethevy, which is clearly signposted as 'St Nectan's Waterfall car park'. From there, it's a beautiful 30-minute walk through the woodland to reach the waterfall.
Yes, there is a car park located in Trethevy, costing around £3 for the day. It's important to use this designated parking as GPS may not accurately lead you directly to the waterfall site.
No, you cannot drive directly to the waterfall. The experience involves a walk through a woodland trail from the car park, which is part of the charm.
The walk is approximately 30 minutes through a scenic woodland along the River Trevillet. It's described as peaceful and filled with nature sounds, though it can be steep and slippery in places.
The walk involves steep sections and steps, so it may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Comfortable shoes with good grip are highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an admission fee of £10 per person to access the waterfall area.
While not explicitly stated as mandatory, booking in advance might be advisable during peak seasons to guarantee entry, especially if specific time slots are implemented. Check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official St Nectan's Glen website or their social media channels for the most current operating times before your visit.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly with the site management or check their official website for any potential concessions.
The admission fee is for access to the waterfall and its immediate surroundings. The woodland walk leading up to it is generally accessible, but the core experience requires payment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the stunning 60-foot waterfall, take a dip in the 'kieve' (plunge pool), enjoy the peaceful woodland walk, visit the on-site cafe, and utilize the meditation room. Some visitors also find spiritual healing and connection here.
Absolutely! The waterfall, woodland, and natural rock formations offer incredible photo opportunities. Visiting outside peak times will help you get clearer shots.
Yes, many visitors take a swim in the cold waters of the 'kieve' at the base of the waterfall. It's often described as a quick, bracing dip rather than a leisurely swim. 
Yes, there is a cafe at the site that serves coffee, cakes, and sausage rolls. It's a great spot to relax after your walk.
St Nectan's Glen is considered one of the most sacred and spiritual sites in the UK, believed to have healing powers. Many visitors report feeling a profound sense of peace and rejuvenation.
♿ 🐾 Pet & Accessibility
While not explicitly stated as 'dog-friendly' in all sources, many visitors enjoy the woodland walk with their dogs. It's advisable to keep dogs on a lead due to the natural environment and other visitors.
Due to the steep, uneven, and sometimes slippery woodland path and steps, St Nectan's Glen is generally not considered accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available on-site, typically located near the cafe and reception area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though there is a cafe on-site. The 'kieve' is very cold, so a dip might be for the bravest! Ensure children wear appropriate shoes for the terrain. The spiritual aspect might be less of a focus, but the natural beauty and the 'hidden gem' feel will surely be a hit.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
The well-maintained path, though steep in parts, leads to a truly rewarding destination. Bring your camera to capture the stunning waterfall and the surrounding flora. The sound of the river and birdsong create a perfect soundtrack for a nature escape.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
+1 The powerful energy of the waterfall and the tranquil woodland setting are conducive to meditation and introspection. Take advantage of the on-site meditation room to deepen your practice.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Woodland Walk
It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear for this walk. The terrain can be steep in places and may become slippery, especially after rainfall. Sturdy walking boots or shoes with good grip are highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
For those looking for a slightly easier return route, there's an alternative path mentioned that is narrower but can be less steep. However, caution is advised as cars may pass on this route.
Spiritual Significance and Healing
+1 Many visitors are drawn to the glen seeking healing, peace, and a connection to nature's restorative powers. The waterfall itself, with its powerful cascade and the 'kieve' (plunge pool), is seen by some as a 'womb of nature,' symbolizing rebirth and cleansing. This spiritual resonance is amplified by the natural setting and the presence of a dedicated meditation room on-site.
Beyond the waterfall, the entire glen is steeped in folklore, with tales of fairies, piskies, and spirits adding to its mystical allure.
The Waterfall and the Kieve
+1 The sheer force and beauty of the water cascading down are captivating, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The natural rock formations surrounding the falls add to the dramatic scenery, making it a photographer's dream. Many visitors are enticed by the opportunity to take a dip in the 'kieve'.
+1 While the water is bracingly cold, the experience is often described as invigorating and a must-do for the adventurous. It's a quick, refreshing plunge rather than a leisurely swim, offering a unique way to connect with the raw power of nature. For those who prefer to stay dry, simply observing the waterfall from the designated viewing areas is a deeply rewarding experience. The sound of the water, the mist rising, and the surrounding lush greenery create a truly immersive and awe-inspiring environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit