Redruth & Camborne
The name Redruth is said to be derived from the fact that by the 14th century the stream running along the bottom of Fore Street was so discoloured with iron oxide from tinning activities that it ran red. Hence Redruth, the Cornish for ford is rhys and red is ruth.
Redruth was the largest and richest metal mining area in the UK - and was probably worked since the Bronze Age. By the Middle Ages mining was firmly established and derelict stack houses abound in the neighbouring countryside. The decline began in the 1860s and by 1880 two thirds of Cornish Miners had emigrated to the mines of the Americas, Australasia & South Africa. Today a bronze statue of a miner stands proud in the town centre to represent the history of the men who worked down the tin and copper mines. A one hour town trail is available in the Redruth Town guide which takes in buildings and areas of note.
Tehidy Park is situated just of the A30 on the outskirts of Pool and is popular with locals and visitors as it has over 9 miles of paths and 250 acres of peaceful woods and lakes to explore, together with a café and picnic areas. It was formerly the estate of the Bassets, one of the four most powerful families in Cornwall.
Redruth Tourist Information open May – Sept at the Cornish Studies Library, alternatively www.redruth-tc.gov.uk
The town of Camborne is situated in the heart of the old Mining District. It was also the home of Richard Trevithick the inventor of the steam carriage and the world’s first railway locomotive.
Camborne today has a diverse range of shops that you would expect from a small town. The town has adapted and evolved and seen many changes since the closure of the mine, it is now a vibrant place in which to live, work and visit.
There are many trails around the old mining area including the Great Flat Lode Trail. Important Mine sites are linked by a network of 34 miles of trails based on the old mineral tramway routes which operated between the mines and the ports of Portreath, Hayle & Devoran.
A town trail can be followed around Camborne which takes in many of the well known historic buildings and churches. More information can be found in the Camborne Town guide.
There are regular bus services operating between Truro, Redruth & Camborne. The service no's are 14, 18 & 40. These operate seven days a week by First. For more information please check www.traveline.info
