Gulval – Churches, Paths and Art

Church architecture, paths and landscape shape the view of Gulval. There is also art at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens and a Romano-British village northwest of the village. These different themes can help you plan a trip around your personal interests.

Churches and historic landmarks

The Church of St Gulval is a Grade II* listed building. Its west tower was completed in 1440. The Churchtown around the church forms a Conservation Area. Gulval Methodist Church is also listed, at Grade II. It is dated 1884 and has a fully preserved, unaltered interior. Its architecture combines simple classical elements with some Gothic Revival features.

In Gulval churchyard, an inscribed cross shaft, the head of a lantern cross and a cross base are listed as Scheduled Monuments. The cross shaft dates from the 9th to the 11th century; the cross base is unique in Cornwall. The churches and churchyard monuments thus offer different insights into the village’s architectural and religious history, with dates spanning more than one period. Free parking is available at all locations around the upper churchyard at Gulval. Check availability before your visit.

Pilgrimage paths, circular walk and landscape

The waymarked St Michael’s Way, marked in both directions, connects Lelant and Marazion directly over 12 miles (19 kilometres). The route described passes through Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens and Gulval Church before continuing to Marazion and St. Michael’s Mount. Walk G5 is another walking option: the approximately four-mile circular route runs from Gulval through Trevaylor Woods to Gear and back. The different route lengths and formats offer practical points of reference for planning, without implying a walking time or a particular level of difficulty.

Gulval’s network of paths includes well-used public rights of way and historic Churchway paths focused on Churchtown. As path conditions can change, check them before setting out. The landscape can also be described by its distinctive features: two small rivers meet in Gulval before flowing into the sea. Gulval Carn overlooks Mount’s Bay; the land itself is privately owned.

Sculpture gardens and planning your visit

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens cover 23 acres, with subtropical planting and contemporary art above Mount’s Bay. More than 30 works are on display, including works by James Turrell, David Nash, Richard Long and Peter Randall-Page. The plants and art offer two different ways to experience the grounds. The gardens are open daily from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm; last admission is at 4:00 pm. Check the opening times before your visit, as they may change.

Local food and nearby destinations

The Coldstreamer Inn in Gulval serves traditional pub dishes and food made with seasonal local ingredients. It also hosts live music and quiz nights. Tremenheere Kitchen near Gulval serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as cream teas, homemade cakes and barista coffee. The options checked include both classic pub food and a selection for different times of day.

Chysauster Ancient Village lies 2½ miles northwest of Gulval, off the B3311. This important Romano-British village preserves courtyard houses enclosed by stone walls. It provides a distinct archaeological focus alongside Gulval’s churches and historic paths, and is clearly situated northwest of the village.

Discover more destinations: Leedstown, Helston, Porthallow, Lanivet, Trelash, Madron, Perranwell Station, Carlyon Bay.

For the main travel overview: Cornwall.