Having visited before a good number of years ago, I was pleased to see that Gweek was going from strength to strength when re-visiting in October. It is quite a way out from the nearest towns (Falmouth and Helston) but is well worth the trip. Prices are £10.50 for adults, £6.50 for children. Buy 'The Cornishman' newspaper (out every Thursday) which often has 2-for-1 offers for a wide range of attractions, including Gweek.
There are good parking facilities and toilet facilities at the entrance. There were notices up to say that they were hoping to build more facilities nearer to the 'attractions', as the entrance is quite a way from the seals etc.
In summer months there is a land train to take you down to the pools but as we visited in winter this was not the case. Be warned that this results in quite a long, hilly walk - fine for most but may be a problem for the very young or old. Check their website or pphone for details of 'off peak' dates.
Once you reach the seals all you can do to begin with is watch in awe. Firstly you will see the'hospital' where very young seal pups are brought in, some little more than a few days old. Whilst small children will invariably be entertained by their 'cuteness' , it is at this point that you realise the excellent job being done by the seal sanctuary in saving these animals and do not begrudge one penny of the money you have just paid as it is going to such a good cause.
We were lucky enough to see the otters being fed and to see some of the seals being 'cleaned out'. There are a variety of pools housing convalescing seals and those who are long term residents, that for one reason or another cannot be released into the wild. there are also sea lions, goats, ponies and there is a re-creation of a 'Cornish rockpool'. The guides are extremely informative and give interesting talks about the animals.
Although we went as a couple, there were many families there and there was plenty for the children to do. There is a children's playground and a nature trail - though we passed on that as it was raining. There is a plaque with useful information about the animals outside of each pool and plenty of vantage points (some above and some below the pools) from where you can get a good look at the seals. There is an 'outdoor' cafe, but it has a canopy over the top for wet weather. We did not eat but prices looked fairly standard for the area. There is a good gift shop at the exit selling good quality merchandise.
The views over the Helford Estuary are spectacular and it is a most relaxing place to visit. We will certainly be back and would recommend it highly.
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Advantages: Interesting, informative,lovely seals, refreshments,lovely location, good access for people with mobility problems Disadvantages: Not sure if can access by us/train, maybe a little pricey for families, can get crowded
Advantages: Interesting, informative,lovely seals, refreshments,lovely location, good access for people with mobility problems Disadvantages: Not sure if can access by us/train, maybe a little pricey for families, can get crowded
very helpful by (40%):
helpful by (60%):
