St Kew brings together two distinct ways to explore: the history of medieval churches and wayside crosses, and a circular walk through river valleys. The Church of St James, the two crosses in the churchyard and the “St Kew, St Endellion and Tregellist” route provide specific points to consider when choosing where to visit. If you are looking for accommodation in St Kew, you can first decide whether you are most interested in historic details, a walk with scenic views, or a combination of both.
The church and its medieval features
The Church of St James is a parish church dating from around the 15th century. An Ogham stone is located at the west end of the south aisle; a medieval window depicts the Passion of Christ and was recently restored. These details offer different points of interest: the approximate date relates to the building, the precise location places the stone within the church, and the window has its own focus through its subject. Visitors interested in churches not only for their age but also for their furnishings and imagery will find several specific points of interest here. Please check the church’s current access arrangements before your visit.
Two wayside crosses in the churchyard
The churchyard at St Kew contains two medieval wayside crosses: Polrode Cross and Chapel Amble Cross. Polrode Cross is a protected Scheduled Monument and a wheel-headed cross with carefully crafted decoration. Chapel Amble Cross is located northwest of the church, also within the churchyard at St Kew. Polrode can be identified chiefly by its form, ornamentation and protected status; Chapel Amble by its location relative to the church. This comparison gives the cultural and historical focus more specific detail: alongside the church itself, the churchyard contains two named cross monuments with different documented features.
A circular walk through river valleys
The “St Kew, St Endellion and Tregellist” circular walk offers a different way to explore the area. It passes through the river valleys around St Kew; from Trewethern, there are views across the tributary valleys of the River Amble. Visibility depends on the weather. This means there are two different aspects to consider when planning: the river valleys shape the route, while the view from Trewethern offers an additional, weather-dependent opportunity for scenic views. If you are more interested in spending time in the landscape than in individual historic details, you can consider the circular walk as an alternative focus to the church and wayside crosses. Check current path conditions before setting out.
The St Kew Inn
The St Kew Inn also dates from the 15th century and retains original features, including an open fireplace. The Church of St James dates from around the same period, giving St Kew two historical points of interest represented by different buildings. The Inn also offers a culinary aspect: wherever possible, it uses locally sourced ingredients. If the origin of the ingredients used is also a consideration when choosing where to visit, you can take this into account alongside the church and cross monuments. Information about the Inn and its ingredients may change; check the Inn’s current information before planning a stop.
Discover more destinations: Torpoint, Altarnun, Perranporth, St Germans, St Agnes, Ludgvan, Saint Neot, Pendeen
For the main travel overview: Cornwall.
