Discover Saint Newlyn East

For a trip to Saint Newlyn East, the church, mining history, open-air theatre and cycling offer different points of interest.

Church and architectural history

The Church of St Newlyna is an Anglican parish church listed as Grade II*. It stands in Churchtown in St. Newlyn East. Its construction dates from the late 12th to the mid-13th century; the church was rededicated in September 1259. The construction period and the date of the rededication tell different parts of its history: the rededication took place during the long period in which the building was constructed. One distinctive detail is the 12th-century limestone font. It is of the Bodmin type and adds a specific example of the church’s furnishings to its history.

Mining history and remembrance

The engine house of the North Wheal (Innes) Shaft at East Wheal Rose Mine was built in 1881–1882 for lead and silver mining. Its construction period and purpose give the building a clear industrial focus. An earlier event associated with the mine was the disaster of 9 July 1846, in which 39 miners died there. The chronology is important: the engine house was built decades after this disaster. Together, the two dates point to different chapters in the history of mining, without equating the later building with the events of 1846.

Newlyn Preaching Pit: open-air theatre

Newlyn Preaching Pit is designed as an open-air theatre. Seven tiers of seating are arranged around a circular orchestra, with a capacity of 2,000 people. This design sets it apart from an enclosed theatre auditorium and makes its layout part of its appeal. The Preaching Pit is available for concerts, shows and plays. If you would like to combine your visit with a performance, check the programme dates in advance, as events may change.

St Piran Trail and Lappa Valley

The St Piran Trail follows minor roads through the village of St. Newlyn East and then continues to Newquay. As a cycle route, it provides a clear link between the village and this destination; no specific journey time or route length is given. At Lappa Valley, you can enjoy a different activity: a family-friendly boating lake with swan pedal boats. Lappa Valley also operates a 1.5-mile main railway line from Benny Halt to East Wheal Rose, along the historic route of the Newquay–Chacewater line. Short walking trails invite you to explore the valley’s flora and fauna. As the availability of seasonal activities may vary, check what is on offer before your visit.

Bus route 85 runs between Truro and Newquay and stops in St Newlyn East, providing a way to travel to Lappa Valley. From there, it is an 18-minute walk to Lappa Valley. If you plan to travel by bus, check the latest timetable, as services may change.

A knot garden at Trerice

Trerice has an Elizabethan-inspired knot garden, planted in 2013 with 800 young yew trees. The year dates the garden, while the number of yews brings its design to life. A formal garden thus complements a travel itinerary that also includes historic buildings, theatre and cycling.

Plan your hotel stay around your interests

This allows you to compare the options more closely based on your own requirements. For activities with set dates, checking event listings and the latest bus timetable can help with planning.

Discover more destinations

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