Why is it called the French creek?
We often ask this question – no, no only Due to Daphne Du Maurier’s famous novel. Actually, when she sailed along the creek on her honeymoon in the 1930s, that was already The creek called the French. The beauty and mystery of this place just inspired her to write romantic pirate stories.
So where does this name really come from?
Over the years, we’ve heard several stories – each adding to the charm of this secret, muddy, tree-shaded entrance.
1. Smoking house theory
On the top of the stream, there was an old smoke house once standing. Legend has it that French fishermen would stop here to smoke before sailing back to France – only 24 hours of good boat. At that time, French fishing boats were a common sight in Cornwall waters.
Smoking house on top of French creek
2. Smuggler’s story
Maybe it’s French smuggler Who is named after the stream – Use it to hide tobacco, brandy, lace and other contraband from the sight of the customs people. The smoke house would have become a great hiding place.
3. French ship?
Some people suggest that the name is not a man, but Boat. In 15th century records, “The French” were sometimes used to describe French ships – perhaps the ships that found shelters during the storm.
A tall ship was recently moored on the Helford River, perhaps like the ship of that name; the French’
4. Tin map clues
On the tithe map of 1841, the stream is called Treveder Creeknamed after its west coast Trevidor Farm. But there is a field nearby Frenchman closethis may belong to the tenant nicknamed “French”. In the creek is another small area – Noddy’s Garden – It is recommended that local names often get stuck. Can this name grow from there?
5. Soldiers’ shelter
Another theory links the name to the Napoleonic Wars – when French soldiers escaped captives or shipwrecks, they may have been hiding here in the woods and muddy river banks.
What we like the most? Smoke House Story – Once used to preserve fish, it is now a convenient fishing equipment storage room. But maybe, maybe, it was hidden in the brandy bucket that died at night…
The French creek kept imposing spells. From artists like Percy’s “Powder” Thurburn and Kurt Jackson to musicians like Kylie Minogue – she filmed her video “flower” On the now famous Kylie Tree, it is a horizontal trunk that runs through the creek.
Kylie Minogue
Of course, novelist Daphne Du Maurier has earned a reputation for romance.
So what inspires you when you join us Helford River Cruise Along the French creek?
