Nestled in the Cornish woodlands of Bodmin Moor near the town of Liskeard, Golitha Falls offers a picturesque escape into nature. This captivating series of cascades and waterfalls, located in Draynes Wood, is an easy ten-minute drive from Liskeard, well-signposted and equipped with a large free car park.
Golitha Falls, Liskeard, Cornwall 4k Drone | Video Credit: Simon Bennett
Getting to Golitha Falls
Use the postcode PL14 6RX to locate the free car park next to Inkie’s Smokehouse. Access to Golitha Falls is open to the public free of charge. As you step out of your car, you can find toilets for a quick comfort break before heading towards the falls. The woodland entrance is conveniently located just across the road from the car park and the trail follows the river Fowey to the falls.
Walking at Golitha Falls
Two trails wind their way around the falls: a shorter, red riverside loop and a longer yellow trail. Both trails start at the same point before splitting further on. If time is of the essence, the red loop offers an easy, flat walk along the River Fowey, leading you past smaller cascades before looping back to the car park. For those seeking a more challenging and rewarding trek, the yellow trail continues further along the river, leading you to the more significant falls. Here, you will find the path becomes steeper, more uneven, and can be strewn with rocks and tree roots.
Is Golitha Falls a Long Walk?
Good footwear is essential, as rainfall can transform the path into a muddy adventure. If you’ve packed your waterproof hiking shoes, now’s the time to lace them up! In exchange for a bit of muddiness, however, the rain rewards you with the spectacular sight of the falls in full flow.
As you walk along the river’s edge, or traverse the stairs to the larger falls, you’ll be rewarded with captivating views of the cascades. They might not be giant waterfalls, but their beauty is undeniable. Do exercise caution around the slippery rocks, particularly if you’re visiting with children.
Can you take dogs to Golitha Falls?
Yes, dogs are welcomed at Golitha Falls it’s a favourite dog walking area, particularly outside of the busy summer season.
Food and Drink at Golitha Falls
After your adventure around the falls, Inkie’s Smokehouse, located back at the car park, offers a welcome retreat for a coffee or a quick bite. It’s well-known for its burgers, and it’s a perfect spot to unwind and recount your experiences of the falls over a delicious meal.
Is Golitha Falls Worth Visiting?
While Golitha Falls is undoubtedly a charming corner of Cornwall, it’s best experienced if you’re already in the area or including a visit here within a broader itinerary. While beautiful, it might not merit a special trip if you’re based further away, especially given the wealth of sights and experiences Cornwall has to offer. However, if you’re nearby, a visit to Golitha Falls makes for a pleasant hour-long detour into nature, perhaps even with a picnic in tow.
What else is there to see near Golitha Falls
Whilst you are in the area other places of interest worth visiting include:
- The Cheesewring on Stowes Hill
- Gold Diggings Quarry near Minions
- King Doniert’s Stone
- Respryn Bridge
For a more extreme day out in the woods take a look at our recommended Survival Courses in Cornwall, where you can reconnect with nature and learn important bushcraft skills.
