St Nectan: The Hermit of the Waterfall and His Sacred Legacy
On June 17th, we celebrate St Nectan, a revered figure whose story is deeply entwined with the mystical waters of St Nectan’s Glen.
Born in the 5th century, St Nectan was the eldest son of King Brychan of Brycheiniog, a Welsh ruler known for his many saintly children. Several of his siblings also journeyed to Cornwall, establishing sacred sites that still bear their names today—St Clether, St Issey, St Minver, St Endellion, St Mabyn, St Winnow, St Duloe, St Morwenna, and St Keyne.
A Pilgrimage to the Waterfall
Inspired by the ascetic life of St Anthony, Nectan first settled in Hartland, Devon, but his pilgrimage led him further west, drawn to the secluded beauty of St Nectan’s Glen. Here, he built his hermitage above the waterfall, dedicating his life to prayer, contemplation, and the study of nature’s wisdom.
The Legend of the Robbers and the Silver Bell
One of the most enduring tales of St Nectan speaks of his encounter with two robbers. After receiving the gift of two cows, thieves stole them. Rather than responding with anger, Nectan offered them his blessing, hoping to guide them toward righteousness. However, the robbers turned on him, striking him down. It is said that, even in death, his holiness was undeniable—one of the robbers repented and buried him with honour.
Another tale tells of St Nectan ringing a silver bell during storms to warn sailors of the treacherous coastline. His presence at the waterfall became a beacon of protection and wisdom, drawing pilgrims for centuries.
St Nectan and the Wisdom of Plants
St Nectan was not only a spiritual guide but also a student of herbalism, learning the healing properties of plants that thrived in the glen. Among the flora associated with him, foxgloves stand out—believed to hold both medicinal and mystical significance. It is believed that when he died where his blood touched the ground foxgloves would grow.
In folklore, foxgloves were thought to be favoured by fairies, and their bell-shaped flowers were said to whisper secrets to those who listened.
A Legacy That Endures
Today, St Nectan’s Glen remains a place of reflection, reverence, and natural wonder. As we celebrate St Nectan’s Day, we invite you to walk in his footsteps, listen to the whispers of the water, and connect with the legacy of this remarkable saint.
