Exploring the estate at Godolphin

The River Hayle

A shorter circular walk from the car park combines country views with walking along the River Hayle. Take in wooden bridges that traverse the water and return for refreshments in the Piggery tea-room.

Wildlife and conservation

The farmed land in the Godolphin estate is managed in a sustainable way that provides a habitat for a variety of smaller creatures. Rough land grazing is the most sustainable form of scrubland management and essential for nature conservation.

Red Ruby Devon cattle

Simply by grazing, the current herd of Ruby Red Devon cattle break down the dominant species of scrub allowing new growth. The removal of the tougher scrub and reduction of the bracken also creates new wind patterns around the hill, which is especially beneficial for butterflies.

Butterfly spotting

The hill is home to a growing population of small pearl-bordered fritillary butterflies, a red data species. As scrub is removed, important food sources, such as the dog violet, are allowed to grow with more ease. The butterfly is a key indicator species for good conservation management.

Historical sites

Godolphin was quite literally built on top of the minerals that funded the estate. Around the edges of the hill are the remains of many mine workings dating from the late 16th century onwards.

Archaeology on the estate

The archaeology on the estate is wide and varied and some features date back to the Bronze Age. Landscape changes started around the Iron Age and medieval field systems are still evident on the hill.