Chynhale Trough, Sithney

## Overview Chynhale Trough is a public drinking spring located in the parish of Sithney, near Helston in the heart of west Cornwall, England. Situated at approximately 50.1305°N, 5.3019°W, this traditional wayside trough is one of many historic water sources that dot the Cornish countryside — remnants of a time when communities relied on natural springs and granite troughs for their daily water supply. Sithney parish lies on the Lizard Peninsula's northern fringe, an area renowned for its unique geology. The underlying rock here is a mix of ancient metamorphic and igneous formations, including greenstone and granite, which naturally filter groundwater and have sustained springs in this region for centuries. The name "Chynhale" likely derives from Cornish language roots, reflecting the deep Celtic heritage of the area. Sithney itself is named after the Breton saint Sezni (Saint Sithney), and the parish has a long history of sacred wells and water sources tied to local tradition and folklore. The trough has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and travellers passing through the area. As with all natural springs, water quality can vary with weather and season, and the water has not been independently tested or certified as potable. ## Directions 1. From Helston town centre, head south-west along the roads leading into the rural parish of Sithney. 2. Use the GPS coordinates **50.13045, -5.301915** to navigate to the trough's location, as it is situated along a minor lane typical of the Cornish countryside. 3. The trough is roadside and publicly accessible. Look for a traditional stone or granite water trough fed by a natural spring. *Note: The narrow lanes around Sithney can be tight for larger vehicles. Parking may be limited to small pull-offs or grass verges nearby.* ## What to Expect Chynhale Trough is a modest, traditional Cornish wayside spring — the kind of unassuming water source that has served rural communities for generations. Visitors can expect a stone trough set beside a quiet country lane, fed by a natural spring emerging from the local bedrock. The surrounding landscape is classic west Cornwall: rolling green fields, hedgerows rich with wildflowers in spring and summer, and peaceful rural views. The flow from the spring may vary seasonally, with stronger output during the wetter months (autumn and winter) and potentially reduced flow during dry summer spells. The area around Sithney is excellent walking country, and the trough makes a pleasant waypoint on a longer ramble through the parish. While the spring has historically been used as a source of drinking water, visitors should be aware that the water quality has not been formally verified. Those wishing to sample the water do so at their own discretion.