Steeple Woods Nature Reserve

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Steeple Woods Nature Reserve is an area of mature and recently planted woodland and heathland on a slope above St Ives with an unusual monument and fantastic views across St Ives bay to Godrevy and the Hayle estuary.

The area became a Local Nature Reserve in 2002. The 40 acre site has three distinct areas to enjoy:

Knill's monument, on the top of Cock Hill, has a fascinating history that will be detailed on its own page. Surrounding the monument is an open area of heathland with lowland heath plants such as gorse, grasses, heathers, bracken, lichens and mosses.

Steeple Woods consists mainly of mature beech and oak trees with associated flora and fauna. Many of the trees have previously been coppiced and pollarded to provide timber for various uses. Today the trunks and branches have grown into strange and unusual shapes that make this small area of woodland distinctive and atmospheric. It is located to the north of Steeple Lane.

Trelyon Downs, below Knill's monument, has been planted with a mixture of native tree species including oak and holly. The open area of downland is a great habitat for wild flowers and wildlife. Trelyon Downs are located on the south side of Steeple Lane.

The area contains some evidence of mining history.

St Michael's Way trail crosses the reserve on its way from Lelant (near St Ives) to Marazion.

Steeple Woodland Nature Reserve is dog friendly with dogs allowed all year round.

The reserve has been awarded the Green Flag Award.

Volunteers are required to help with work on the reserve. There is a weekly working party on most Wednesdays from 9.30am till 3.30pm. Please phone Chris on 01736 797429 or 07980 296299 beforehand to confirm.

Volunteers should meet at the gate with the noticeboard, near to the top of Steeple Lane. Tools and gloves are provided, and sturdy shoes are recommended. A variety of tasks are undertaken throughout the year including habitat management, tree planting and maintenance of footpaths.


Public Transport

The nearest bus service that stops close to the bottom of Steeple Lane is the St Ives to Penzance route.

Service 16

Approaching the reserve from the other side you can get off at Halsetown and walk up the lane near the pub to join the footpath marked St Michael's Way - Knill's Monument.

Visit Cornwall Public Transport for latest timetable


Detailed Walking Map of the area - OS Explorer Map 102 - Land's End, Penzance and St Ives

Books online:
Click here to buy books online about Steeple Woods Nature Reserve

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