Golitha Falls walk: waterfalls in Cornwall near Looe

What makes Golitha Falls special

Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve stretches along the River Fowey between Draynes Bridge and Treverbyn Bridge, through the ancient woodland of Draynes Wood.

The Golitha Falls nature reserve is cared for by Natural England. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest on Bodmin Moor, which is part of Cornwall's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now called the Cornwall National Landscape). Rather than one tall drop, you will find a chain of cascades along the River Fowey, a series of smaller waterfalls each with its own pool, framed by moss-covered boulders and twisting oak trees.

The woodland has a long history. Parts of it have been coppiced for many centuries, and traditional coppicing has been brought back to help the wildlife. The damp, clean air suits mosses and lichens, with over 120 species of moss recorded here, so the whole valley glows green.

The Golitha Falls walk

The main path starts at the car park at Draynes Bridge and follows the river downstream to the falls. It's roughly three quarters of a mile each way, so most people take an hour or two to walk there and back at an easy pace, with time to stop at the pools.

The first stretch is fairly level and suits most walkers, including families with young children. Beyond the main falls the ground becomes rockier, with roots, steps and uneven sections, so wear sturdy, waterproof footwear. The paths can be muddy after heavy rain, but that is also when the waterfalls look their best.

Keep an eye out for the stone ruins of the old Wheal Victoria copper mine beyond the falls, a reminder of the area's mining past.

Wildlife to look out for

Golitha Falls is a haven for wildlife. Dormice live in the hazel coppice, several kinds of bat roost in the woods, and otters use the river. Salmon and sea trout swim up the River Fowey, and in spring wood anemones flower on the woodland floor. Move quietly and visit early in the morning for the best chance of spotting something special. Binoculars are handy, and autumn is a lovely time to see the river running high and the trees turning gold.

Visiting Golitha Falls with your dog

Golitha Falls is a lovely dog walk, with shade on hot days and plenty of interesting smells along the riverbank. Dogs are welcome, but please keep them on a lead or close by, as the reserve is home to sensitive wildlife and the current can be strong after heavy rain. Every lodge and cottage at The Vale welcomes up to three dogs, so it makes a great outing on a dog-friendly holiday in Cornwall.

Parking and getting there

You'll find a car park with toilets at Draynes Bridge, close to the start of the trail. If you are travelling by train, the nearest train station is Liskeard, about fifteen minutes away by car or taxi. The falls are a short drive north of Liskeard, and an easy drive from The Vale, so you can be walking under the trees within an hour of leaving your lodge or cottage.

Nearby: King Doniert's Stone and Siblyback Lake

Between the car park and St Cleer stands King Doniert's Stone, an ancient carved memorial to Doniert, a Cornish king of the ninth century. It only takes a few minutes to visit and is free to see. Siblyback Lake is also close by if you fancy a longer walk around the water, and keen walkers can link the falls, the stone and the lake on a longer circular walk across the edge of the moor.

Tips for your visit

• Wear good boots, as the paths are rocky and muddy in places.
• Visit after rain to see the waterfalls at their most dramatic.
• Bring a picnic and find a quiet rock by the river.
• Arrive early at weekends and in the school holidays, when the car park gets busy.
• Take your rubbish home to help protect the nature reserve.

Other waterfalls in Cornwall

Golitha Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls in Cornwall to reach from the south coast, but it is not the only one worth a visit. On the north coast near Tintagel, St Nectan's Glen hides St Nectan's Kieve, a waterfall that drops through a hole in the rock into a deep pool. It makes a memorable day trip if you are exploring further afield, while Golitha Falls is perfect for a relaxed morning walk from The Vale.

More waterfalls and walks near The Vale

If you love Golitha Falls, there is plenty more to explore close to The Vale. Deerpark Forest is on our doorstep for woodland strolls, Kilminorth Woods runs along the river just outside Looe, and the South West Coast Path between Looe and Polperro offers wide sea views. See our guides to the best scenic walks in Looe and wild swimming spots in Cornwall for more ideas.

Stay at The Vale

The Vale is a relaxed base for exploring Cornwall's waterfalls, woodland and coast, with lodges and cottages near Looe that sleep up to eight. Choose a lodge with a copper bath or a cottage with a private hot tub, and come back from your walk to a warm soak. Book direct at ohanamua.co.uk for the best price.