Kennall Vale

Kennall Vale nature reserve will be closed from 08:00 on Monday, 11th of December until 17:00 on Friday, 15th of December for essential tree safety works.

Kennall Vale is experiencing overcrowding to the detriment of wildlife, visitor experience and the local community. Whilst we are trying to resolve the problem please consider visiting somewhere else or at the very least AVOID visiting at the weekends.

Please do not park on the narrow road leading to the reserve. Be aware that the narrow lanes leading to the reserve are used by farm, delivery and emergency vehicles.

A picturesque woodland with rich undergrowth and open glades.

Location

Near Ponsanooth

OS Map Reference

Directions: Head north from Falmouth towards Ponsanooth on A393. In Ponsanooth, turn left at Post Office. Follow the road and park in the village. It is important that you do not park on the narrow lane leading to the reserve or in front of the nature reserve entrance. On foot climb Cot Hill Road. Ignore the grand entrance to Kennall House and keep walking up the hill. The entrance is on the right at the old pottery.

Main Entrance Grid Ref SW 7535 3756.

Know before you go

Size

8 hectares

Parking information

Please do not park on the narrow road leading to the reserve. Be aware that the narrow lanes leading to the reserve are used by farm, delivery and emergency vehicles.

Grazing animals

Walking trails

Tracks and paths run throughout the reserve; these can be muddy and in some places the surface can be wet and very slippery.

Dogs should be kept on a lead at all times.

Access

There is a permissive footpath around the reserve. Terrain can be difficult and muddy in places.

Dogs

On a lead

When to visit

Opening times

Avoid at weekends due to how busy the site gets.

Best time to visit

All year round interest, avoid visiting at the weekend.

About the reserve

A picturesque woodland with some open glades, this reserve also contains a water-filled quarry. The Kennel Vale gunpowder factory was located here; however it closed in the first decade of the last century. It is a great reserve for wildlife, such as the pipistrelle bat, as well as an abundance of birdlife

July 2020 update: please see this news post which explains the impact of increased visitors to Kennall Vale.