Lerryn

Lerryn is a small village on the Lerryn River, a tidal creek that joins the Fowey River a little south-east of Lostwithiel. The river is crossed by stepping stones (usable only at low tide) or by the road bridge, and has a traditional pub (the Ship Inn) at the water’s edge. The creek is navigable by small boat and kayak at high tide, offering access to the Fowey estuary and the wider network of wooded tidal creeks in this part of south Cornwall.

Kenneth Grahame, who wrote “The Wind in the Willows,” is said to have known the creek from boat trips upriver from Fowey, and local tradition holds that he drew on the wooded creeks and river banks here for some of his imagery. Footpaths lead from the village into the woods along the creek, including Ethy Wood. At high tide the creek fills to become a substantial waterway; at low tide the mud banks are exposed and wading birds feed along the edges.

Lostwithiel, the historic county town with a medieval bridge, castle (Restormel), and a range of antique shops and cafes, is about 3 to 4 miles away by road. Fowey is about 4 miles south as the crow flies, and further by road. Holiday accommodation in Lerryn is limited but in high demand - creek-side cottages with direct water access are among the most sought-after in this part of Cornwall.