MID CORNWALL SOUTH

Centred around the cathedral city of Truro, and stretching down towards Falmouth and the beautiful and tranquil Roseland peninsula, this is the heart of Cornwall. Divided by the Fal estuary (known as the Carrick Roads - the third deepest natural harbour in the world), and full of secluded creeks and coves, this is a watersports paradise.

Many Victorian landowners took advantage of the sheltered conditions to create extraordinary semi-tropical gardens, including Trebah, Glendurgan and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

In addition, Henry VIII built the defensive fort of Pendennis Castle - which was still in use during the Second World War - and its smaller sister facing it across the water in St Mawes (both English Heritage).

Falmouth is the principal town in this area, and as the location of Cornwall’s only university, a major student centre. Penryn is rich in history, while on the Roseland Peninsula, St Mawes, Portscatho and a multitude of smaller villages are clustered around the river and coast.

The main railway line stops at Truro, with a branch line running to Falmouth. Halfway down the river from Truro to Falmouth, the scenic King Harry Ferry takes vehicles across the river, while the St Mawes pedestrian ferry runs between Falmouth and the yachting haven, saving time on a long drive with a good chance of seeing some wildlife along the way.