The afternoon was exhilarating and the locality surpassed my expectations. Since hearing about Churchtown Farm years ago, I have longed to explore the Saltash community wildlife space. But for one reason or another, and with so many beautiful parts to visit close to home, it had never happened.
I was reminded of the place again while on a ramble at the beginning of the season. Mr Word Loft and I found ourselves by the edge of the nature reserve. And admiring the views over undulating fields to Trematon Castle, we vowed to return when we had more time.
They were just what was needed after a busy start to 2025 – exercise, fresh air and out in the countryside. Refreshing!
We parked the car at Wearde Road and walked downhill. Approaching the railway bridge, powdery perfumed, pink and mauve tufty wildflowers (possibly wild marjoram) give a touch of warmth and glamour to the wintry hues all around. Songbirds trilled in the hedgerow and a pair of magpies held court from high in a tree. ‘Two for joy,’ I chanted, delighted to see them.
The River Tamar is dominant from all aspects. It joins the River Lynher meandering by Antony Estate’s parklands and Jupiter Point where a Royal Navy training vessel is moored.
Maryfield Church’s spire is visible behind the greenery, and as the crow flies it appears surprisingly close, although by road it’s about a thirty-minute drive. It was fascinating to see the setting from a different angle, as I lived in a cottage behind the building when I first moved to Cornwall.
From the pathways, Forder and Antony Passage look enchanting. The hamlets’ white-painted houses with slate-clad walls and roofs are cheery even on a dull day.
We stomped to the brow of Point Field, a rotund hill of mythical quality. I felt like spinning around with my arms out wide. The 360-degree panorama is breathtaking. Meadows rich with wildlife and plants. A railway viaduct, waterways, and on a higher hilltop, Trematon Castle stares over the landscape towards Plymouth. Built soon after the Norman Conquest, the fortress was believed to have stored treasures from Sir Francis Drake’s voyages in 1580.
Gazing over the valley, I decided it was another location I would like to go to, but determining when is another matter.
Best wishes,
Sue. X