Things I’ve Missed

Today we set off to walk Kennall Vale, Clare and Sam have both walked it before but I hadn’t, lived here for 25 year plus and only just found out about it.
Kennall Vale is a hidden valley between Redruth and Falmouth there is evidence of Cornwall's mining heritage everywhere, derelict buildings, water courses, machinery, sluices all with nature trying to reclaim them.
They used to make gunpowder here for the Cornish mines - Kennal Vale gunpowder factory started production about 1812 and the leats that would carry water to the mills are in remarkably good shape, as are the massive granite mill buildings.
Some of the huge iron cogs that were once turned by wheels dipped in the River Kennall can still be seen as can the odd broken mill stone in the river bed. It’s more humid than elsewhere and combined with a lack of brambles ferns and fungi flourish. Overhead the tree canopy closes over but it’s not dark or gloomy, just atmospheric.

Home and a quiet hour or so before writing my condolence card, preparing Joshuas parcel and starting this weeks takeaway meal.
It’s been a relaxing Friday.