Featured Businesses
Top-rated services and premium providers in Gunnislake
Recent Listings
The Complete Gunnislake Guide
Deep dive into local facts, traffic, jobs, and lifestyle data visualizations.
About Gunnislake – History and Culture
Gunnislake, a picturesque village in southeast Cornwall, lies on the west bank of the River Tamar. Its history is deeply entwined with mining. In the 19th century, the area boomed thanks to Devon Great Consols, then the world’s richest copper mine. Arsenic extraction also brought wealth. The village grew to support the mining workforce, with rows of granite cottages lining the steep valley sides.
After mining declined, Gunnislake transitioned to a quiet rural settlement, though its industrial legacy is still visible in the spoil heaps, engine houses, and the dramatic Tamar Valley Viaduct. The village’s culture is shaped by its border location – Cornish but with strong Devon influences. Today, Gunnislake is a popular base for walkers, cyclists, and visitors seeking the tranquility of the Tamar Valley.
Modern Gunnislake retains its historic character while embracing tourism. The community is active, with a village hall hosting events, a well-regarded primary school, and several traditional pubs. The sense of local identity is strong, celebrated through annual events like the Gunnislake Show and the Torpoint Ferry to Plymouth.
- Devon Great Consols mine site, now a scheduled monument.
- The Tamar Valley Viaduct, built 1908, carrying the railway 120 feet above the river.
- St. Leonard’s Church, built 1854, with a striking spire.
- Gunnislake Heritage Trail, linking historic mining sites.
- The Honicombe Manor, a 17th-century farm turned park.
- Kit Hill Country Park, with its summit tower and old mine works.
- The Tamar Valley Discovery Trail, a 34-mile long-distance path.
- Morwellham Quay, a restored historic port and museum.
Did You Know? – Facts about Gunnislake
Gunnislake may be small, but it punches above its weight in history and natural beauty. The village sits at the heart of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also marks the start of the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Many visitors are surprised to learn that the 'lake' in Gunnislake is actually a man-made leat, dug to power water wheels for the mines. The area was once a major producer of arsenic, used in dyes and pesticides. Today, the valley is a haven for wildlife, including otters, salmon, and rare bats.
- The village’s name appears as 'Gunnislake' in 1302, but earlier forms include 'Gunnyslake'.
- Devon Great Consols produced over 700,000 tons of copper ore between 1844 and 1903.
- The Tamar Valley Line from Plymouth to Gunnislake is one of the most scenic branch lines in England.
- Kit Hill rises to 334 metres and is topped by a 19th-century chimney.
- The annual Gunnislake Show began in 1947 and attracts thousands.
- In the 1860s, the area had the highest concentration of arsenic works in the world.
- The village has a rare surviving example of a Victorian public convenience, now a listed building.
- Gunnislake’s weekly market has been running for over 100 years.
- The Tamar Valley is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006.
- Gunnislake is only 10 miles from Dartmoor National Park.
Geography and Climate of Gunnislake
Gunnislake is located in southeast Cornwall, on the western bank of the River Tamar. The village is built on steep slopes rising from the river valley, leading to dramatic views and terraced streets. It lies about 8 miles north of Plymouth city centre, close to the A390 road which links Tavistock and Callington.
The landscape is dominated by wooded valleys, granite outcrops, and remnants of mining. The Tamar here is a tidal river, and the valley is part of the Tamar Valley AONB. Climate is mild and temperate, influenced by the Gulf Stream. Summers are warm but not hot, winters cool with occasional frost. Rainfall is moderate, but the valley can be misty.
- Average summer high: 19°C (66°F).
- Average winter low: 3°C (37°F).
- Annual rainfall: around 1,200 mm.
- Snowfall is rare but possible in January/February.
- Nearest beaches: Whitsand Bay and Cawsand (30 minutes drive).
- The River Tamar is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
- Kit Hill offers panoramic views on clear days to Dartmoor, Bodmin Moor, and the coast.
- The village is in the civil parish of Calstock, which includes several hamlets.
Things to Do in Gunnislake
Gunnislake offers a wealth of activities for visitors, from outdoor adventures to cultural exploration. The village’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Tamar Valley, Dartmoor, and the Cornish coast.
Food & Dining
Dining in Gunnislake is largely traditional pub fare, with several excellent country inns serving local produce. The Tamar Valley is known for its fresh fish from Plymouth, and locally reared beef and lamb. There are also a few cafes and takeaway options. For fine dining, nearby Tavistock and Plymouth offer more choices.
The village’s pubs are social hubs, serving ales from local breweries like St. Austell and Sharp’s. Many feature beer gardens with river or valley views. Seasonal events like food festivals celebrate the region’s culinary heritage.
- The Weary Friar, a historic pub in nearby Pillaton.
- The Royal Inn, Gunnislake, with a riverside terrace.
- Tamar Valley Ice Cream, made from local milk.
- Plymouth gin and Cornish cider widely available.
- Local restaurants in Callington and Calstock offering British and international cuisine.
- Farm shops at Honicombe and throughout the valley.
- Afternoon tea at the Gunnislake Community Centre café.
- Fish and chips from the village chip shop.
- Seasonal pick-your-own fruit farms in summer.
Festivals & Events
Gunnislake’s calendar includes community events and larger regional gatherings. The Gunnislake Show in August is the highlight, with livestock classes, crafts, and entertainment. The Tamar Valley Festival celebrates local heritage with guided walks, talks, and music.
Other notable events include the Kit Hill Challenge (a running race), the Gunnislake Regatta on the river, and Christmas lights switch-on. Plymouth’s annual events, such as the British Firework Championships, are only a short drive away.
- Gunnislake Show (early August).
- Tamar Valley Festival (June/July).
- Kit Hill Challenge (September).
- Gunnislake Regatta (July).
- Calstock Arts events throughout the year.
- Christmas market and carols in the village.
- Plymouth’s Food Festival (October).
- Morwellham Quay historical re-enactments.
- Tavistock Goose Fair (October).
- Gunnislake Tuesday market (weekly).
Cultural Attractions
Despite its size, Gunnislake offers rich cultural heritage. The Tamar Valley Discovery Trail includes many information boards. Morwellham Quay, a short drive away, is a living museum recreating a 19th-century river port. The village’s church, St. Leonard’s, has beautiful Victorian stained glass.
Local artists and craftspeople exhibit at galleries in Calstock and Callington. The nearby town of Tavistock, birthplace of Sir Francis Drake, has museums and a vibrant arts scene. The mining legacy is explored at the Devon Great Consols site and the Gunnislake Heritage Centre (village hall).
- Morwellham Quay – working mine and historic village.
- Gunnislake Heritage Trail (self-guided).
- Calstock Arts Centre – exhibitions and performances.
- St. Leonard’s Church – architecture and history.
- Tavistock Museum – local history and Drake.
- Buckland Abbey – National Trust property near Plymouth.
- Cornwall Mining Heritage at the King Edward Mine Museum.
- The Tamar Valley AONB visitor centre in Tavistock.
Outdoor Activities
The Tamar Valley is a paradise for walkers and cyclists. The Tamar Valley Discovery Trail follows the river from Launceston to Plymouth. Kit Hill Country Park offers easy walks and stunning views. The area is also popular for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the River Tamar.
Dartmoor National Park, just east, provides more rugged terrain and tors for hiking. The coast is within easy reach, with beaches at Whitsand Bay and Cawsand offering surfing and swimming. Golf, horse riding, and birdwatching are also popular.
- Kit Hill walks – 360-degree views.
- Tamar Valley Discovery Trail (34 miles).
- Gunnislake to Calstock river walk.
- Cycle route from Gunnislake along the Tamar Trail.
- Kayaking on the tidal Tamar (hire in Calstock).
- Fishing permits available for salmon and trout.
- Dartmoor hiking – Haytor, Hound Tor, etc.
- Swimming at Whitsand Bay (lifeguard in summer).
- Canoeing on the River Lynher.
- Horse riding at Honicombe Stables.
- Birdwatching at the Tamar Estuary Nature Reserve.
- Geocaching in the valley.
Economy and Key Industries
Gunnislake’s economy historically relied on mining, but today is underpinned by tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The village serves as a commuter base for Plymouth, with many residents working in the city. Tourism is vital, with visitors drawn to the AONB, heritage sites, and outdoor activities.
Agriculture remains important, with livestock farming and some fruit growing. Local businesses include pubs, shops, bed and breakfasts, and craft industries. The Tamar Valley is also home to several artists and potters. Nearby industrial estates in Callington and Tavistock provide employment in manufacturing and logistics.
The Plymouth economy, 20 minutes away, offers jobs in defence, marine, education, and healthcare. The University of Plymouth is a major employer. Gunnislake benefits from its proximity to this larger hub while retaining a rural character.
- Tourism and hospitality (pubs, B&Bs, attractions).
- Small-scale farming (sheep, cattle, and arable).
- Local retail and services (village shop, post office).
- Construction and building trades.
- Creative industries (artists, craftspeople).
- Commuting to Plymouth for jobs in finance, education, and healthcare.
- Food production (Tamar Valley Ice Cream, cider).
- Heritage and museum operations (Morwellham Quay).
- Self-employment and remote working (growing trend).
Where to Live in Gunnislake
Gunnislake itself is a compact village with a mix of housing from Victorian terraces to modern estates. The most desirable properties often have river or valley views. The nearby hamlets of Coxpark, Drakewalls, and St. Ann’s Chapel offer more rural living.
Calstock, two miles downstream, is a larger village with a railway station and more amenities. Tavistock, three miles north, is a historic market town with excellent schools, shops, and a community feel. For those wanting city convenience, Plymouth suburbs like St. Budeaux or Saltash are close.
Housing prices in Gunnislake are generally lower than in Plymouth or coastal Cornwall, but have risen in recent years due to demand for rural lifestyles. The area attracts families, retirees, and second-home owners. Renting is possible but stock is limited.
- Gunnislake village centre – terraced cottages and some flats.
- New development at Honicombe Park – modern homes and holiday lodges.
- Coxpark – quiet countryside with bungalows.
- Drakewalls – former mining village, now residential.
- St. Ann’s Chapel – traditional farms and farmhouses.
- Calstock – Georgian architecture, river views, railway station.
- Tavistock – good schools, independent shops, but higher prices.
- Saltash – suburb of Plymouth, convenient for commuting.
- Bere Alston – another historic village with a railway station.
- Lifton – more rural, on the Devon border.
Formalities and Visas in Gunnislake
As part of the United Kingdom, Gunnislake operates under UK immigration rules. Visitors from the EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can visit for up to 6 months without a visa. For longer stays, work or study visas are required.
The UK’s points-based system applies for skilled workers, with visas requiring sponsorship from an employer. Family visas are available for partners or dependents. The village itself does not have a local visa office; applications are handled online and at UK Visas and Immigration centres in Plymouth or Exeter.
EU citizens with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme can live and work freely. Non-UK residents moving to Gunnislake must register with the local council for tax, obtain a National Insurance number for work, and open a UK bank account. It is advisable to consult the UK government website for current rules.
- Standard Visitor visa for up to 6 months (tourism, family visits).
- Skilled Worker visa (employer sponsorship needed).
- Health and Care Worker visa (for medical professionals).
- Student visa (for courses at UK institutions).
- Family visas (spouse, partner, child).
- EU Settlement Scheme (for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens resident by 31 Dec 2020).
- Youth Mobility Scheme (for citizens of certain countries aged 18-30).
- Global Talent visa (for leaders in arts, science, tech).
- Ancestry visa (for Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent).
- Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years (for many visa routes).
- British citizenship can be applied for after 5 years of residence.
- Local support: Citizens Advice Bureau in Plymouth.
- Visa application centres in Plymouth (by appointment).
Working in Gunnislake
The local job market in Gunnislake is limited, with most opportunities in tourism, retail, and farming. However, many residents commute to Plymouth, Tavistock, or Exeter for work. The largest employers in the region include Plymouth City Council, University of Plymouth, Devonport Dockyard (defence), and Derriford Hospital.
Remote working is increasingly common, made possible by decent broadband in parts of the village. The pandemic accelerated this trend, with more people moving to the countryside while keeping city jobs. Self-employment and freelancing are also popular.
Seasonal work is available in tourism and agriculture, such as at pick-your-own farms or holiday parks. Professional jobs in finance, tech, and engineering are more easily found in Plymouth. CVs and interviews follow standard UK practices. The minimum wage (National Living Wage) applies for those over 23.
- Hospitality: pubs, restaurants, B&Bs, hotels.
- Retail: village shops, local retailers.
- Agriculture: fruit picking, livestock care.
- Construction and trades (plumbers, electricians, builders).
- Healthcare: Derriford Hospital, GP surgeries, care homes.
- Education: Gunnislake Primary Academy, local schools in Tavistock.
- Remote work: IT, digital marketing, writing, design.
- Tourist guides and heritage roles at Morwellham Quay.
- Public sector: local government, police, fire service.
- Employment agencies in Plymouth (e.g., Manpower, Reed).
- Self-employment support via Cornwall Council business services.
- Networking through Tavistock Business Improvement District.
Studying in Gunnislake
Gunnislake does not have its own universities; higher education institutions are in Plymouth, Exeter, or Truro. The village has a primary school, Gunnislake Primary Academy, rated 'Good' by Ofsted. For secondary education, students typically attend Tavistock College or schools in Plymouth.
For further education, City College Plymouth and Exeter College offer a wide range of courses. The University of Plymouth, a research university with over 20,000 students, is the main destination for university-level study. Plymouth Marjon University also offers degrees.
Student life is centred in Plymouth, which has a lively waterfront campus, student unions, and affordable accommodation. Some students choose to live in rural areas like Gunnislake and commute, though public transport requires planning. Scholarships and student loans are available for UK residents.
- Gunnislake Primary Academy (ages 4-11).
- Tavistock College (ages 11-18) – comprehensive school.
- Plymouth schools: Plymstock School, Devonport High School for Boys (grammar), etc.
- City College Plymouth – vocational courses and A-levels.
- University of Plymouth – undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
- Plymouth Marjon University – teaching, health, sport.
- University of Exeter (St Luke’s campus) – about an hour away.
- Falmouth University – arts and media, 1.5 hours away.
- Student accommodation in Plymouth: halls of residence, private rentals.
- Average tuition fees: £9,250 per year for UK students (2025).
- International students: higher fees, typically £14,000-£20,000 per year.
- Student loans available through Student Finance England.
- Part-time work for students: many find jobs in retail or hospitality.
- Library services: Plymouth public libraries and university libraries.
- English language courses at Plymouth Language Centre.
Finance and Banks in Gunnislake
Gunnislake does not have a bank branch; the nearest major banks are in Tavistock (Lloyds, Barclays, HSBC) or Plymouth. The village has a post office that offers basic banking services, including cash withdrawals and deposits. Most residents rely on online banking and the post office for day-to-day needs.
Opening a UK bank account typically requires proof of identity (passport), proof of address (utility bill), and sometimes proof of employment. Many banks offer digital accounts that can be opened online. International students may need a letter from their university.
Taxes include income tax (PAYE for employees), National Insurance, and council tax (bands A-H). The local council tax for Cornwall is set by Cornwall Council. Value Added Tax (VAT) of 20% is included in most goods and services. Property purchase incurs stamp duty land tax.
- Major banks in Tavistock: Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, NatWest.
- Post Office in Gunnislake for cash withdrawals, deposits, bill payments.
- Online banks: Monzo, Starling, Revolut – popular for easy setup.
- Building societies: Nationwide in Plymouth.
- Credit unions: Cornwall Credit Union.
- Income tax rates: 20% basic rate, 40% higher rate (thresholds apply).
- National Insurance: 12% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270 (2025).
- Council tax: average Band D around £2,000 per year in Cornwall.
- VAT: 20% standard rate, 5% for some energy/children’s products.
- Currency: British Pound Sterling (£).
- ATMs available in Tavistock and at some local shops.
- Mortgage advice: Independent financial advisers in Plymouth.
Health Care in Gunnislake
Gunnislake is served by the NHS (National Health Service), which provides free healthcare at the point of use for UK residents. The local GP surgery is the Gunnislake Health Centre on Chapel Hill. For emergencies, the nearest hospital with an A&E is Derriford Hospital in Plymouth.
Dental services are available in Tavistock and Callington, but NHS dental access can be limited. Pharmacies in Gunnislake include the local chemist on the main road. For non-emergencies, NHS 111 can be called. The village also has a community ambulance service.
To register with a GP, you need proof of address and identification. NHS treatment is free for UK residents, including those with indefinite leave or a relevant visa. Some services, like prescriptions (currently £9.65 per item), dental charges, and eye tests, may have costs unless exempt.
- Gunnislake Health Centre – GP surgery, limited hours.
- Derriford Hospital, Plymouth – full A&E, major trauma centre, 8 miles away.
- NHS 111 – non-emergency medical advice.
- Dental practices: Tavistock Dental Care, Callington Dental Practice.
- Pharmacies: Boots in Tavistock, local chemists in Gunnislake and Calstock.
- Opticians: Specsavers in Plymouth and Tavistock.
- Mental health services: Livewell Southwest in Plymouth.
- Community midwives and health visitors – via GP surgery.
- Care homes in the area: numerous for elderly care.
- Private healthcare: Nuffield Health Plymouth, Plymouth Private Healthcare.
- Health insurance: many employers offer private medical insurance.
Accommodation in Gunnislake
Accommodation options in Gunnislake range from holiday lets and B&Bs to long-term rentals and property purchases. The village has a number of self-catering cottages, many converted from historic mining cottages. There are also lodges at Honicombe Park and a few small hotels.
For those looking to rent, properties are limited and often go quickly. Two-bedroom cottages typically rent for £600-£800 per month. Purchasing a three-bedroom house might cost between £250,000 and £400,000. Prices are lower than Plymouth but higher than some inland areas. Demand has increased due to the 'race for space' since 2020.
- Holiday cottages: typical weekly rent £500-£1,200.
- Bed and breakfasts: average £80-£120 per night.
- Honicombe Holiday Park: lodges and caravan pitches.
- Long-term rentals: often listed on Rightmove or Zoopla.
- Buying a house: contact local estate agents (e.g., Bradleys, Miller Countrywide).
Planning Your Move to Gunnislake
Moving to Gunnislake requires careful planning, especially if coming from abroad. First, ensure you have the right visa or settled status. Then, set up a UK bank account and National Insurance number. Arrange temporary accommodation, such as a holiday let, while you search for a permanent home.
Register with a GP and get a UK driving licence (international licences valid for 12 months). Transfer your vehicle registration if bringing a car. Notify utility providers and set up council tax with Cornwall Council. It’s advisable to budget for higher fuel costs and limited public transport.
- Check UK visa requirements well in advance.
- Open a UK bank account (online or after arrival).
- Apply for National Insurance number (call 0800 141 2075).
- Register with a GP (Gunnislake Health Centre).
- Get a UK driving licence (apply via DVLA).
- Register your vehicle with DVLA if importing.
- Arrange home insurance and contents insurance.
- Set up utilities: water (South West Water), electricity (various).
- Broadband: check coverage; openreach and Virgin Media available in parts.
- Notify DVLA of address change if moving from another UK area.
- Transfer school records for children.
- Find a removal company (local firms in Plymouth or Tavistock).
- Join local community groups on Facebook for advice.
- Visit the village in person before committing to a move.
Leisure in Gunnislake
Leisure activities in Gunnislake are focused on the outdoors, community, and traditional pub life. The village has a few pubs that are popular for socialising, and the Community Centre hosts clubs and events. For a wider choice of nightlife, Tavistock and Plymouth offer cinemas, theatres, and restaurants.
Shopping is limited to essentials, with a Co-op supermarket and local shops. Tavistock has a weekly Pannier Market and many independent stores. Plymouth’s Drake Circus Shopping Centre provides major retail chains. The area is also good for antique hunting and local crafts.
- The Royal Inn – traditional pub with live music occasionally.
- The Honicombe Manor Bar – family-friendly.
- The Village Hall – coffee mornings, yoga, art groups.
- Outdoor leisure: walking, cycling, fishing, horse riding.
- Cinema: Tavistock’s independent cinema (Wharf Theatre) and Cineworld in Plymouth.
- Theatre: Theatre Royal Plymouth, one of the largest outside London.
- Sports: Tavistock Leisure Centre, community swimming pools.
- Golf: Honicombe Golf (9-hole) and St. Mellion near Callington.
- Skittles and darts at local pubs.
Transportation Options in Gunnislake
Gunnislake is the terminus of the Tamar Valley Line from Plymouth. The railway station is a short walk from the village centre, with services running roughly every two hours (more frequent at peak hours). The journey to Plymouth takes about 30 minutes.
Bus services are limited, with the 79/79A connecting Tavistock, Gunnislake, and Callington. For road transport, the A390 runs through the village, linking to the A38 and A30. Parking in the village is limited, and narrow lanes can be challenging for large vehicles. The closest airport is Exeter (about 50 miles), with Bristol and Newquay further away.
- Gunnislake Railway Station – on the Tamar Valley Line.
- Trains to Plymouth (direct) – roughly hourly in peak times.
- GWR operates the line; day return tickets available.
- Bus 79: Tavistock – Gunnislake – Callington (hourly weekday, limited Sunday).
- Taxi services: local firms in Callington and Tavistock.
- Road: A390 main road, narrow in places.
- Cycling: National Cycle Network routes 27 and 335 nearby.
- Nearest major airport: Exeter (50 miles/80 km).
- Plymouth ferry terminals: to Roscoff, France, and Santander, Spain.
Everyday Life in Gunnislake
Life in Gunnislake is peaceful and community-oriented. The pace is slower than city life, with a strong sense of neighbourliness. The village has a regular Tuesday market, a post office, and a primary school. Many residents know each other, and events like the annual show bring everyone together.
Safety is generally good, with low crime rates typical of rural areas. Streetlights are limited, so a torch is useful at night. Essential services like healthcare are accessible, though for specialists you may need to travel. The village is well-served by mobile and internet coverage in most parts.
- Low crime rate – mainly petty theft, rare serious incidents.
- Community policing in Calstock and Tavistock.
- Mobile coverage: strong 4G on EE, O2, Vodafone; 5G limited.
- Broadband: average speeds 50 Mbps via fibre in many areas.
- Utilities: no gas mains in some parts – oil or LPG heating.
- Water: South West Water, known for high bills.
- Parking: permit parking for residents in some streets.
- Noise levels: generally quiet, occasional traffic during holidays.
- Waste collection: fortnightly recycling and rubbish.
Cost of Living in Gunnislake
The cost of living in Gunnislake is lower than in London or southern England, but slightly higher than in some other rural areas. Housing is the biggest expense, though cheaper than Plymouth. Utilities and fuel can be higher due to rural location and lack of gas grid.
Groceries are comparable to the UK average, but limited competition locally may push prices up. Transport costs are higher if commuting by car. Council tax is moderate. Overall, a single person might need £1,200-£1,500 per month (excluding rent) to live comfortably.
- Average rent one-bed flat: £550-£650 pcm.
- Average utility bills (gas/electric): £150-£250 pcm.
- Council tax (Band D): approx.£2,000 per year.
- Groceries: £50-£80 per week per person.
- Petrol: £1.45 per litre (regional variation).
- Bus fare to Plymouth: £5 single.
- Average meal for two at pub: £40-£60.
- Gym membership: £25-£35 per month in Tavistock.
- Childcare: typical full-time nursery £800-£1,000 per month.
Places to Visit in Gunnislake
Within the village itself, the Tamar Valley Viaduct is a landmark, offering a great photo opportunity. The riverside path provides a gentle walk. Kit Hill Country Park, just east, is a must for panoramic views and exploring old mine shafts. The summit tower (a former folly) can be climbed.
For a deeper dive into mining history, visit the Devon Great Consols mine site. Interpretive panels explain the scale of operations. Morwellham Quay is an immersive historical experience with a working dock, mine train ride, and costumed interpreters. In Tavistock, the Pannier Market and Bedford Square offer charm.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Tamar Valley AONB walks, especially the bluebell woods at Greystone Wood in spring. The nearby village of Calstock has a beautiful riverside and an Arts Centre. Further afield, Dartmoor’s wild landscapes are under an hour’s drive.
For coastal escapes, Whitsand Bay offers golden sand and surfing. The Plymouth waterfront, with the Barbican and National Marine Aquarium, is a great day out. The Rame Peninsula, including Mount Edgcumbe House and Gardens, is also accessible.
- Kit Hill Country Park – free, dog-friendly, views.
- Morwellham Quay – family attraction with mine tour.
- Devon Great Consols – scheduled ancient monument.
- Tamar Valley Viaduct – iconic railway bridge.
- Calstock Village – riverside pubs, art gallery.
- Greystone Wood Nature Reserve (bluebells in May).
- Tavistock Pannier Market – open Sat and Wed.
- Buckland Abbey – National Trust historic house.
- Dartmoor National Park – Hound Tor, Haytor, Widecombe.
- Whitsand Bay – surf beach, Fort Picklecombe.
- National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth.
- The Barbican, Plymouth – historic quay, shops, eateries.
- Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park – gardens, deer park.
- Cawsand and Kingsand – charming fishing villages.
- Plymouth Hoe – iconic promenade, lighthouse.
News & Testimonies
Recent developments in Gunnislake include improvements to the village hall and community facilities. The Tamar Valley Line has seen increased investment, with more frequent trains and station upgrades. Local nature projects are working to protect the valley’s biodiversity.
Geography & Location
Fascinating Local Facts
- The village was a major centre for copper and arsenic mining in the 19th century.
- Gunnislake is the starting point for the popular Tamar Valley Discovery Trail.
- The village has a population of around 3,000 people.
- Gunnislake’s name may derive from Cornish 'Gonys' (moor) and 'Lys' (court).
- The largest mine in the area, Devon Great Consols, once produced 10% of the world’s copper.
- Gunnislake is situated within the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The village has a historic railway viaduct, part of the Tamar Valley Line.
- Gunnislake’s annual summer show features livestock, craft stalls, and entertainment.
- The area is renowned for its bluebell woods in spring.
- Nearby Kit Hill Country Park offers panoramic views across Devon and Cornwall.
- Gunnislake has a strong community with a village hall, church, and several pubs.
- The Tamar Valley was once a thriving fruit-growing region, known for its strawberries.
- The stream 'Gunnislake' is actually a leat, a man-made channel for mining water.
- The village is a gateway to the Dartmoor National Park, just to the east.
Gunnislake Quick Facts
Essential information and unique highlights about the city at a glance.
Send Us an Enquiry
We'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Thank You!
Your enquiry has been submitted. We'll be in touch shortly.