The Cornwall Blog

Last checked July 2026. Opening times and menus can change, so it is worth checking with each café before travelling. This is a tricky one: how do you compile a café list in the foodie haven that is Cornwall? There are so many I haven’t tried yet, and plenty more I can’t wait to sample. This is far from an exhaustive list, but here are seven suggestions for your next caffeine fix. 1. The Harbour Light, Boscastle The Harbour Light opened in 2025, but Proper Vintage, who run this walker-friendly stop, are old hands at bringing the delicious. Doug and Hannah have spent years converting vintage vehicles into places to sell their cakes and ice cream, including the beautifully restored Beryl at Bossiney Cove. Their fully fledged café in Boscastle is definitely worth a visit. 2. The Peacock Café at Pencarrow House and Gardens The Peacock Café has such a perfect setting. Pencarrow is a lovely day out, with guided...

Autumn colour at Cardinham Woods Autumn is all about golden leaves, woodland walks and making the most of the fleeting daylight. There is something about the shorter days that makes me want to squeeze all I can out of the golden light and very fresh air. Rather than heading to the coast, this month I am taking you inland to Cardinham Woods . A gentle walk beside the river One of Forestry England’s gems, this tranquil place sits just outside Bodmin and has trails for all kinds of walkers. Friends of mine with limited mobility, and families with children in pushchairs, love the largely flat Lady Vale Walk. The full route is 1.7 miles (2.75 km), but you can cross the river at Centenary Bridge to make a shorter 0.9-mile (1.45 km) loop. The trail is surfaced and generally wide and flat, although there is a slope on the return that can be avoided by crossing the bridge. Family fun among the trees It is great for children too, with Gruffalo sculptures alo...

Cornwall is a county famed for its coasts, on its highest points you can see the waters stretch from both north and south, as far as the eye can see. But I thought this month I would consider a different kind of water, as well as the salty waves that crash our shores, Cornwall is also home to some beautiful lakes. Still, serene but if you want it, fabulous active fun. One I often frequent, mainly because of the very tasty cafe on site, is Siblyback lake on Bodmin Moor. As you drive down the little road to enter this tranquil spot you are treated with a great view of the lake, actually a man-made reservoir. The sun hits the waters and shines silver bright, often in the fields surrounding you can find those fabulous hairy cows I am so fond of.  Truth be told this is a popular spot, at least at the entrance, so you are sure to find plenty of families making the most of the fresh air, play park and those afore mentioned fabulous cafe treats.  Olive & Co have a refreshing menu...

That seems a fair exchange! On the edge of Cornwall, just a ferry ride away from Plymouth is a little known haven, the Antony Woodland Garden. This month the garden a running a fun scheme, collect a Monterey pine cone and swap it for one of their delicious homemade scones! Next to the National Trust property of Antony House, this woodland and garden is an unspoilt paradise. Known as a 'International Camellia Garden of Excellence', one of only four in the country. This time of year the autumn fiery colours are a sight to behold. Nearly 100 acres and thousands of different trees, plants and shrubs to enjoy. The tea room is lovely too! With a vintage feel and exquisite bakery treats, the perfect place to indulge after a bracing walk. Children are free and the Autumn ' Scone for a Cone ' offer is a bargain - just quote 'AUTUMN18' and you'll get a ticket for 2 adults for £10. See their website for more details.  

Cardinham Woods capture that childhood magic. Just outside Bodmin you can find the beautiful tall trees of this Cornish woodland. There are four walking routes of varying challenges, ideal for taking the dogs or exhausting hyper children. Mountain bikers too flock here for the three clearly marked cycle trails of different difficulties, you can even hire bikes on site (though you do need to book in advance). The highlight for me is the Woods café, delicious home made food and tempting cakes are just what you need after being oh so healthy and tiring yourself out in the fresh air. If you would rather sort your own food then by the river you can find picnic areas and static BBQs, ideal for family or group gatherings. One of the trials, Lady Vale, is pushchair friendly and there is a little play area that kids will love too. You do need to pay for parking but we always find a day at the woods puts a smile on everyone's face! You can find out more about Cardinham Woods...