​St. Neot

This moorland village, only a mile or so off the Smugglers Way, is situated in a leafy valley below the moor northwest of Liskeard. It is a truly pleasant and tranquil place, founded after the Celtic Saint Anietus, who also decided to reside here, and a small monastery existed later in the 11th century.

The impressive 15th century church stands on that spot and is the place to explore to find out more. Traditions hold strong here, and villagers still haul branches of an oak tree to the top of the tower on Oak Apple Day in May to show support for Charles II,  who hid from his enemies in an oak tree back in 1651! Look for the huge granite carved cross in the Churchyard - this is said to have been presented by King Alfred in around 900AD. 

For the Smugglers Way walker in search of an overnight stop you will find the homely London Inn, an impressive Holy Well with several fishy tails to go with it and if you still have energy you can head underground into the surreal Carnglaze Caverns, formerly a well-hidden navy rum store in a cathedral like cave complex, complete with its own subterranean lake - well recommended.