Living in Gunnislake

The community atmosphere in Gunnislake is best described as friendly and engaged, with residents taking an active interest in local life. The village hosts several annual events, including the popular Gunnislake Festival, which celebrates local art, culture, and heritage each summer. Social clubs, hobby groups, and volunteer-run activities meet at the Gunnislake Public Hall and other community spaces, providing opportunities for all ages to connect.

The outdoors plays a central role in local living, and many residents enjoy access to the Tamar Trails, cycling paths, and green spaces scattered throughout the valley. The Tamar Valley AONB also brings together local conservation efforts, walks, and guided tours that explore the area's mining history and natural features. Farmers' markets, local art exhibitions, and charity events help to sustain a strong sense of belonging.

Gunnislake's riverside location and rolling countryside attract those seeking a balance of activity and tranquility, while the village's active online forums and noticeboards mean that residents stay well-informed and involved in village life.

Safety and crime rates in Gunnislake are typically lower than those found in larger towns and urban centres across Cornwall and Devon. The village benefits from its rural setting and close-knit community, which often contributes to a reassuring sense of security for residents. Incidents of crime in Gunnislake tend to be infrequent and are usually of a minor nature.

The area is covered by the Devon and Cornwall Police force, with neighbourhood policing teams working closely with the parish council and local groups to address issues and maintain public safety. Community Watch initiatives and engagement with local schools and businesses further support a safe environment. Gunnislake’s reputation as a peaceful village setting is one factor that appeals strongly to families and retirees alike.

Parking in Gunnislake is generally straightforward, with free on-street parking available throughout the village and no major restrictions except in a few narrow lanes. Most homes offer private drives or off-street parking, and visitors can usually find spaces close to key facilities. The village centre and railway station also have small car parks for local and commuter use.

Gunnislake is located on the A390, which provides efficient access to nearby towns and is the main route for reaching the city of Plymouth. Traffic congestion is rarely an issue except during local events or peak commuting hours. The rural road network winds through the Tamar Valley, so journeys may take longer than mileage suggests, but the routes are picturesque.

Nearby destinations and travel times:

• Plymouth – approx. 50 mins via A390 & A386 (20 miles)
• Tavistock – approx. 15 mins via A390 (6 miles)
• Callington – approx. 15 mins via A390 (5 miles)
• Bodmin – approx. 55 mins via A390 (32 miles)
• Launceston – approx. 35 mins via A388 (18 miles)

Gunnislake offers a traditional Cornish village food scene centred around welcoming local pubs, village cafés, and independent takeaways. Notable establishments include The Cornish Inn, a classic pub serving local ales and hearty meals, and The Rising Sun, a popular destination for Sunday lunches and a wide range of drinks. The Tamar Inn, found a short distance away in Calstock, provides river views and live music evenings, making it a favourite for residents of both villages.

Food shopping is catered to by local convenience stores and nearby farm shops, while the weekly Gunnislake Country Market showcases regional produce and homemade goods. For a wider range of dining, residents head to Tavistock for an array of bistros, restaurants, and cafes.

Nightlife in Gunnislake itself is more relaxed and community-focused than lively, with occasional live music, quiz nights, and social gatherings hosted by village venues. For a broader nightlife experience, Plymouth and Tavistock provide a greater selection of bars, live music venues, and late-night options.

School Quality: Gunnislake offers easy access to well-regarded primary and secondary schools in the surrounding area, providing a solid start for children of all ages.

Parks and Green Space: The proximity to Tamar Valley AONB means families have abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, including nature trails, playgrounds, and riverside walks.

Childcare: A choice of preschools, nurseries, and registered childminders operate in the village and neighbouring communities, supporting working parents with flexible childcare options.

Safety: Gunnislake is regarded as a safe village, with a low rate of crime and strong community ties contributing to parents' peace of mind.

Family Activities: From riverside walks to children’s clubs, festivals, and sports activities in nearby towns, Gunnislake’s surroundings offer plenty to keep families active and entertained in a nurturing rural environment.

The rural setting of Gunnislake makes it particularly well-suited to those with pets, especially dog owners. Local walking routes include Tamar Trails, riverside paths, and extensive woodland walks, where dogs are welcome and off-lead running is possible in many areas. Nearby Calstock and the Tamar Valley further enhance the diversity of outdoor options for pet owners.

The village is served by local veterinary practices in both Gunnislake and Tavistock. Pet-friendly venues such as the Cornish Inn and many village cafés welcome dogs, with water bowls and treats often available. Local shops stock pet supplies, and adoption of a pet-friendly approach by landlords means many rental properties will consider pets.

The overall attitude towards animals in Gunnislake is positive, and the abundance of countryside ensures that living with pets is both practical and enjoyable.

Gunnislake is served by the Tamar Valley Line, a scenic branch railway that connects the village with Plymouth, making public transport a practical choice for commuters and students. The Gunnislake railway station is situated just to the north of the village centre, providing direct train services into Plymouth in approximately 50 minutes. This rail route is particularly scenic as it travels through the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Bus services provide connections to Tavistock, Callington, and other nearby towns, with regular routes running throughout the day. For road travel, Gunnislake is near the A390, which links the area to Tavistock and Callington, with further connections leading towards Truro and the wider Cornish road network. Exeter Airport and Newquay Airport are the closest airports, both accessible in around an hour by car.

A summary of typical commutes to key locations:

• Plymouth: approx. 50 mins by train
• Tavistock: approx. 15 mins by car
• Callington: approx. 15 mins by car
• Launceston: approx. 35 mins by car via A388
• Exeter: approx. 1 hour 20 mins by car via A30/M5

Primary Schools in Gunnislake
The primary education in Gunnislake is provided by Delaware Primary Academy, a member of the Bridge Schools Trust. This school has a solid local reputation and serves pupils from the village and its surrounding rural catchment. The school focuses on supporting children in a nurturing environment with close links to the local community.
Other nearby options include Calstock Community Primary School, located just over a mile away, and also highly regarded by local families.

Secondary Schools near Gunnislake
For secondary schooling, most pupils travel to Callington Community College, approximately five miles from Gunnislake. The college provides education for students aged 11–18 and offers a wide curriculum, including sixth form provision. Another option is Tavistock College, located in Tavistock across the Tamar in Devon, which is within a reasonable commute and offers a comprehensive educational experience.

Independent Schools, Academies, and Colleges
Independent schooling choices are primarily found in Tavistock, such as Mount Kelly School, which is well-known for its academic results and sports facilities. Mount Kelly has both day and boarding options and serves a wide catchment across Devon and Cornwall.

Universities and Further Education
Gunnislake has no universities of its own, but it enjoys proximity to higher education institutions. The University of Plymouth and Plymouth College of Art are both around 30–40 minutes away by public transport, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. City College Plymouth provides vocational training and further education for older students in the area.