River Gannel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gannel |
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The River Gannel below Trevemper Bridge
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| Country | England |
| Region | Cornwall |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Carland Cross 115 m (377 ft) 50°20′57″N 5°01′32″W / 50.3492°N 5.0256°W |
| River mouth | Atlantic Ocean Pentire 0 m (0 ft) 50°24′37″N 5°07′27″W / 50.4103°N 5.1243°W |
| Length | 13 km (8.1 mi) |
The River Gannel is a river located in Cornwall, England. Its name in Cornish is Dowr Gwyles, which means 'lovage river'. The river starts near the village of Indian Queens in central Cornwall. It then flows north, passing under Trevemper Bridge.
After the bridge, the river changes into a tidal estuary. This part is called the Gannel (or An Ganel in Cornish, meaning 'the Channel'). The estuary acts as a natural border, separating the town of Newquay from the village of Crantock. Eventually, the Gannel flows into the Celtic Sea, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Gannel estuary is an important place for nature. It has an old boatyard that has been there for many years. It is also a key spot for migratory birds, which are birds that travel long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.
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The Gannel Crake Legend
The River Gannel is known for a local legend called the Gannel Crake. This legend describes a strange noise that people sometimes hear coming from the river. In the 1800s, people said the sound was like "a thousand voices pent up in misery." They described it as a long, sad cry that slowly faded away.
Local people who believed in the legend thought the sound was the cry of a troubled spirit. This spirit was said to always haunt the area around the river. It's a mysterious story that has been passed down through generations.
River Changes and Storms
In 2014, strong storms hit the area around the River Gannel. These storms caused damage to a wall that was helping to guide the river's path. Because the wall was damaged, the river's course changed. Now, the Gannel flows directly across Crantock beach before reaching the sea.
Crossing the Gannel: The Ferry
A special ferry service operates across the Gannel estuary. This ferry runs only during certain times of the year, usually in the warmer months. It travels from a place called Fern Pit to Crantock beach. The ferry makes it easier for people to cross the estuary without having to go all the way around.
Ship Building History
The Gannel estuary has a history of ship building. In the 1870s, two men named Thomas and John Clemens were active in the area. They built ten schooners, which are a type of sailing ship with two or more masts. This shows that the Gannel was once an important place for maritime activities and trade.
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Gannel Ferry
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The Gannel above Crantock Beach
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