River Menalhyl facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Menalhyl |
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River Menalhyl at St Columb Major
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| Native name | Dowr Melynheyl |
| Country | England |
| Region | Cornwall |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Nine Maidens 150 m (490 ft) 50°28′15″N 4°54′36″W / 50.47083°N 4.91000°W |
| River mouth | Mawgan Porth, Celtic Sea 50°28′0″N 5°2′0″W / 50.46667°N 5.03333°W |
| Length | 19 km (12 mi) |
The River Menalhyl (which means river of the estuary mill in Cornish) is a river in Cornwall, England. It flows for about 19 kilometers (or 12 miles) through areas like St Columb Major and Mawgan-in-Pydar. The river generally flows towards the north-west. Its name comes from the Cornish words melyn (meaning mill) and heyl (meaning estuary). This tells us that there were once mills near where the river meets the sea.
Contents
Where Does the River Menalhyl Start and End?
The River Menalhyl begins its journey near a place called Nine Maidens. This is about 150 meters (492 feet) above sea level. From there, it flows through the countryside, collecting water from smaller streams.
The river eventually reaches the sea at Mawgan Porth. This is a beautiful spot on the coast of the Celtic Sea.
Smaller Streams Joining the Menalhyl
As the River Menalhyl flows, it is joined by several smaller streams, also known as tributaries.
- One stream starts between the village of Tregonetha and Castle an Dinas.
- Another stream begins south-east of Tregatillian.
- A smaller river from Talskiddy also joins the Menalhyl not far from where it meets the sea.
Journey Through Towns and Valleys
The River Menalhyl flows through several communities. It passes through the northern part of St Columb Major, an area known as Bridge. It also goes through the villages of St Mawgan and Mawgan Porth.
From St Columb Major downstream, the river's valley is called the Vale of Lanherne. This valley is very scenic, with many trees along its length. It's a popular spot for people who enjoy walking and exploring nature.
The River's History with Mills
For a long time, rivers like the Menalhyl were very important for powering mills. These mills used the river's flow to grind corn or do other work. Along the River Menalhyl, you can still find a few old mills that are no longer in use. The river also helps to fill some small lakes and ponds. Farmers also use the river's water for their crops and animals along most of its path.
One famous mill, Lawry's Mill, was a popular place for tourists in the Victorian era. Many postcards were made showing this mill, highlighting its beauty.
Fishing and Wildlife in the Menalhyl
The River Menalhyl is a good place for anglers (people who fish). Especially in the lower parts of the river, you can find different types of fish.
- Brown trout
- Sea trout
- Lamprey
- Eel
- Minnow
These fish are an important part of the river's ecosystem.
What is the River Bed Made Of?
The ground underneath and around the River Menalhyl is mostly made up of rocks from the Devonian period. These rocks include:
- Calcareous slates: These are dark, layered rocks that contain calcium.
- Grits: These are coarse-grained sandstones.
- 'Limestone: This is a type of rock made mostly of calcium carbonate.
This type of rock helps shape the river's path and affects the water's chemistry.
