Famous landmark Roche Rock closed to public after injury

A supposedly haunted landmark could be closed to the public indefinitely after a visitor suffered an injury and had to be taken to hospital by helicopter. Roche Rock, near St Austell, is an ancient chapel and hermitage that stands proudly on a granite outcrop, offering impressive views over the Clay Country.

Last year, this stunning Cornish spot was named one of the best off-the-beaten-track spots in the country, coming fourth in a list of 100 hotspots, beating Wistman’s Wood in Devon, which came sixth, and Wimbleball Lake in Somerset, which came ninth. For generations, it has been a magnet for romantics and adventurers alike, drawn to the rock for its rugged beauty, stunning views, history, myths and legends.

The place, whose Cornish name is An Garrek, has long been considered a special place in Cornwall. The place is associated with legends and folklore and has also been used as a filming location, including for the horror film Omen III.

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The chapel is dedicated to Saint Michael and is believed to date back to the early 15th century. In the past it is said to have been a place of pilgrimage. Legend has it that it was the home of a leper or a monk.

There are many folk tales associated with Roche Rock. The two most famous are the legend of Jan Tregeagle, a 17th century magistrate who found refuge in the chapel after his death, and the other is part of the legend of Tristan and Isolde. For many years the chapel was accessed via an old metal ladder on a steep rock face.

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Last month, however, the rusty ladder was secured with metal plates, chains and locks. Lord Falmouth’s Tregothan Estate, which owns the land, has also put up signs warning people to stay away from the 20-metre-high rocky outcrop.

Tregothnan Estate said the closure was a result of an incident in which a visitor to the site sustained some injuries. A spokesperson said: “Following an incident in which a visitor was injured and had to be rescued from the rock by helicopter, the estate was advised to close the ladder.”

Tregothnan Estate, known for its tea growing, also said access to the site was damaging the area, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a County Wildlife Site. The spokesman added: “At the moment it remains closed but the estate will continue to seek advice and act accordingly.”

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