Cornwall Living
In the wake of the storm
How the National Trust is caring for Cornwall after Storm Goretti.
When Storm Goretti swept across Cornwall, it reshaped more than coastlines and gardens. It altered familiar views, felled beloved trees and reminded us how powerful – and unpredictable – nature can be. Across National Trust places from Trelissick and Godolphin to Trengwainton and Levant, ranger and garden teams arrived at work to scenes they had never witnessed before.
On St Michael’s Mount, about 120 trees were lost or damaged. At Trelissick, lead ranger Neil Stevenson estimates that 70 to 80 mature trees were lost in a single night. “I’ve worked with the National Trust for over 30 years,” he says, “and I’m very fond of these trees. But storms like this are part of woodland life. Our job is to understand that process and care for what comes next.”
In the days that followed, teams moved swiftly from emergency response to recovery. Roads were cleared. Paths reopened. Buildings checked. Above all, staff and visitor safety came first. Now comes the longer, quieter work: assessing damaged trees, planning restoration, and finding ways to ensure nothing is wasted. Fallen timber will be reused for conservation projects, restoration work and firewood. Woodchip will return nutrients to the soil. Some areas will be left alone to regenerate naturally, creating new habitats for wildlife. Others will be carefully replanted, helping to “future-proof” Cornwall’s landscapes for generations to come.
“It’s hard to comprehend the scale,” says West Cornwall Lead Ranger Simon Hocking. “But we’re focused on looking ahead – rebuilding stronger, and working with nature, not against it.” Behind every reopened gate and restored pathway will be months of skilled, patient work. Small teams are managing vast landscapes shaped by centuries of history and, increasingly, by climate change.
For many, these special places are woven into everyday life: morning walks, family picnics, and quiet moments in nature. And while the impact has been significant, recovery is well underway. From restoring paths to nurturing new growth, teams are working with nature to ensure Cornwall’s landscapes remain special for generations to come. Supporting the National Trust means we can protect Cornwall’s nature, beauty and history, for everyone, for ever.
“Your support is essential to help us look after nature, beauty and history. Make a donation today, and together we can protect precious places for everyone, forever.” – National Trust
National Trust
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cornwall