Habitat type: Heathland
Size of reserve: 45 hectares / 110 acres
OS map number:106
Grid reference: SW 959 629
Best time to visit: All year
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Directions
From the new section of A30 dual carriageway take the exit for ‘Victoria Interchange’. Follow the route of the old A30 through Victoria and turn right onto the B3274 towards Padstow, just before the Iron Bridge. Tregonetha Downs is 1.5 miles along this road, on either side of the road.
Access
There is a small pull-in on the left where you first arrive at the site from the southern end, though this can get muddy. There is roadside parking along the minor road which leaves the B3274, signposted for Kernick.
The nature reserve consists of the downs adjacent to the west of the main road, and the downs directly to the north and south of the Kernick road. Various informal tracks and paths give access to the site, though these can be muddy and uneven.
Characteristic wildlife of this reserve
There are historical records for marsh fritillary butterfly on the site, though no sightings in recent years. Its proximity to Goss Moor, a stronghold for the species, makes it an important potential site for t
he butterfly to colonise. Small pearl bordered fritillary butterfly can be seen on the wing in the summer months.
There are numerous historical records for important raptor species. Hen harrier were known to over-winter here and there are records for goshawk, merlin and Montagu’s harrier. These records are not very recent but it’s always worth a look.
Vigurs eyebright is a delicate and rare flower which has been seen here in the more grassy areas.
Management has not taken place on this site for some years. Proposals have been approved to install stock proof fencing to enable the Downs to be grazed by cattle, further information can be found on our website here. This will improve the heathland habitat for the species mentioned above.
Other information
The site is a meeting point for the parish boundaries of St Columb Major, Withiel and St Wenn, marked by a medieval cross.
The nature reserve is common land.
