The Tamar Valley runs north from Plymouth Sound, forming a natural barrier between Devon and Cornwall. A century ago the valley was a centre of copper and tin mining, and today the ruins of this industrial heritage can be explored in peace. The slopes of the valley provide sheltered growing for soft fruits and apples, and flowers in spring. On the cornish side lies medieval Cotehele (NT), and on the banks of the Tavy lies the home of Sir Francis Drake, at Buckland Abbey (NT). Upstream from Cotehele is the waterside village of Calstock, with its impressive viaduct, and beyond, on the Devon bank, is the Victorian port at Morwellham Quay, which can be reached by ferry from Calstock.

There are only a few bridges crossing the Tamar. At Saltash the Brunel railway bridge and the modern road suspension bridge cross the river together. Most of the other bridges are ancient passages, an example is the thirteenth century Horsebridge, alongside which stands the equally old Royal Inn, serving excellent refreshments.

The market town of Tavistock lies on the Tavy, and forms a gateway to the upland expanses of Dartmoor. Here there are rugged tors, rushing streams, quiet villages and far-reaching views across the valley.

Tavistock is the site of an ancient abbey, much of which has long vanished, but remnants remain around Bedford Square, where a regular farmers' market is held. Tavistock is a pleasant shopping centre with many traditional shops, and it also offers leisure and entertainment at the Wharf.

Further up the valley lies Launceston, with its castle, and the narrow gauge Steam Railway, which offers trip into the rural hinterland.

Close to our camping site is the golf course at St Mellion, and there is canoeing, fishing and sailing on the Tamar. For the young at heart, the Tamar Valley Donkey Park is only a short distance away, and for the energetic, the walk to the summit of Kit Hill will offer panoramic views across Devon and Cornwall.