The Loe, Natural freshwater lake in Cornwall, United Kingdom
The Loe is the largest natural freshwater lake in Cornwall, set on the Lizard Peninsula and separated from the sea by a long bar of sand and shingle called Looe Bar. The lake sits at the end of the River Cober, with wooded slopes and open grassland running along much of its shoreline.
The Loe formed around 800 years ago when sand and shingle gradually blocked the mouth of the River Cober, turning what had been Helston's natural harbor into a landlocked stretch of water. This cut the town off from direct sea access and changed the way the surrounding settlements developed over the following centuries.
Local stories connect this place to Arthurian legend, claiming it is where Sir Bedivere threw Excalibur into the water. Walking along the shore, it is easy to understand why this setting has kept such a strong hold on local storytelling for centuries.
A footpath runs around the entire lake and is manageable for most visitors, though sections can become muddy after wet weather. Sturdy footwear is a good idea, and the area is open throughout the year.
The shingle bar that seals the lake from the sea was historically cut open by hand when the water level in Helston rose too high, to prevent flooding in the town. This right to cut the bar was officially held by the townspeople for centuries and was exercised whenever conditions demanded it.
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