Tresayes Wood and Nature Reserve

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Tresayes Nature Reserve comprises a former quarry and woodland near Roche in the China Clay District and can be visited at any time of year.

Known as Roche Glass Mine or Polpuff, the quarry first opened in the late 19th century.
After about 37 years of closure it reopened in 1917, during the First World War.

The steps where the men stood to work the rock face are still visible.
'Bal maidens' worked on the blocks of cut stone to extract the feldspar which was then shipped out of Fowey to the rest of the UK and to Europe where it was used in glass making and in glazes for pottery.

After two periods of intense activity, the quarry ceased working in the mid 20th century.

The reserve is of considerable geological interest. In 1995 it was designated as a County Geology Site.
Fossils have been found here.

Today the site is a haven for birdlife. Ferns abound.

There are information boards on site. Paths and a boardwalk lead you to the quarry face.

Tresayes reserve is 1.5 acres (0.6 hectares)

Tresayes Nature Reserve is managed by The Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

Location:
Grid reference: SW 995587

OS Explorer 106

Road directions to Tresayes Wood and Nature Reserve

Books online:
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