Passing through the Glasney Valley and on toward the imposing structure of the College wood Viaduct is another great walk full of twists and turns to explore.
The last of Brunel’s timber viaduct’s to be converted to stone.
The first stage of the Truro to Falmouth branch line was completed in 1863. The use of timber for the structure was on the suggestion of Isambard Kingdom Brunel to address the issue of expense. Somewhat ironic when you think that granite is one of the towns greatest exports.
The second stage of the viaduct was completed as recently as July 1934 and was the last timber viaduct to be converted to stone. The original piers remain as grade II listed structures and home to a variety of birds and other wildlife.
Looking up between the old and the new.
Moving under the viaduct take a few moments to move out into the adjacent field where a huge old tree known locally as the, ‘Spooky Tree’, stands. Generations of children and indeed adults have spent many a dusky evening terrifying one another with scary tales under the gnarly branches of this wizened old fella.
The Spooky Tree a wizened old fella.
From this field you can choose to carry on forward and explore deep into the woods but be aware it can be very boggy in this wood even in the height of summer but it does make for great fungi discoveries. Or, you can turn back, walk toward the viaduct and turn left following across a bridge over the river and taking one of the turns on the left.
Continue on threw the woods until you come to the newly re-opened College Reservoir and my next posting!
