Revelling in Local Beauty

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Par beach winter 2020 by Emma Julian
Bren the Border Terrier at Par Beach

It's a Wednesday morning and we find ourselves in England in our third lockdown. As previously we have to stay home and only go out for essentials, thankfully this includes exercise. I have never been more grateful than this past year for living somewhere so beautiful. Although many of the gardens and establishments are closed to visitors there is still plenty of parkland to explore. Near me we have Lanhydrock House, although the house and garden are closed the estate remains open with a lovely walk at Respryn also still available. 

Ancient trees at Lerryn Woods
Last light at Lerryn Woods

Driftwood at Polkerris beach Winter 2020
After the storm at Polkerris Beach

Best of all we can access the coast, last week I took a stroll at the little beach of Polkerris. Love it there, the harbour wall hugs the beach like a warm embrace. Though it has to be said not much was warm that day! Bitter wind softened slightly by the beautiful sunshine. There was sculptural driftwood strewed here and there and a fair amount of dogs happily exploring (including our Border Terrier). 

Polkerris Beach by Emma Julian
Winter sun at Polkerris Beach 

Coulson park Lostwithiel
Frosty morning in Lostwithiel 

We have a week of clear glorious skies which makes the current situation so much more bearable. Crisp under foot, even my local park becomes a new adventure as the landscape changes. 

Frosty morning by the river in Lostwithiel
Coulson Park in Lostwithiel as Fowey river bends

The first lockdown definitely encouraged me to really get to know the countryside in my locality, similar rules apply this time and as we can't travel far I am looking forward to exploring the woodland and fields on my doorstep. 

Winter sun at Par beach
Par beach 

Whether it be beach, forest or moor, Cornwall has been a calming balm in a challenging time. I look forward to the Spring when hopefully the county will start to open up again, as the buds yield their blossoms.    

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