The Cornwall Blog

I am almost too scared to say it, but the sun is actually out, and it’s half term. Of course, it might be short-lived. We’ve had rain and wind and mizzle and fog galore of late. In little Cardinham, it’s rained every day since the start of the year! But come rain or shine, there is always something to enjoy in Cornwall this half term. Here are just five... Screech Owl Sanctuary Opens Just for this half term week, the sanctuary welcomes visitors to see these majestic birds in flight. And it’s not just birds. They are passionate about other wildlife too, and their resident fox is a beauty. It’s a lovely day out, just outside Indian Queens. The Tide Climbing Centre If the rain does persist, this is a great option. Near Wadebridge and Padstow, the centre has more than 100 bouldering problems to try, suitable for beginners and experienced climbers. Eden Project: Hangloose I’ve mentioned Eden a few times on here, but never t...

It feels like we are powering through this year, I don't know about you. I thought for our February blog story today I would look at some of the great things happening in Cornwall over this coming February half term break. Although many things in Cornwall don't really seem to get going until Easter, there is still plenty for families to enjoy, here are a few suggestions. A good idea whatever the season, cycling the Camel Trail , a favourite for families young and old. In Summer the pathways that line the estuary can become a little congested which is one of the reasons why this route is great to enjoy at this time of year. Perhaps the most popular stretch is from Wadebridge to Padstow. There something quite motivating about the reward of fish and chips on the harbour at the end! There are great cycle hire places to choose from as well. Heading the other way, towards Bodmin and beyond to Wenfordbridge provides a quieter stretch with beautiful scenery to soak up when you pause to...

Ready to get your creative juices flowing? I have listed some great events and exhibitions happening across the county, February is a fab month for art.  If you fancy getting involved in the creative process, there can be no greater location than The Godolphin Hotel with that stunning view of St Michael's Mount. Saturday the 3rd of February they invite you to sip a cuppa whilst you paint , social, relaxed and in lovely surroundings.  Down St Ives way Leach Pottery have some great workshops on over the holidays (12th - 14th Feb), free for kids in Cornwall. Definitely worth looking into, for the budding potters in your family.  The wonderful Tolmen Centre at Constantine is always worth a visit (theatre, music, art and a cafe!) until the 18th of February they are exhibiting the artworks of Sophie Velzian , such moody and atmospheric pieces, painted at her Helford River studio.  The Earth Photo exhibit is coming to The Lost Gardens of Heligan, a touring exhibit of phot...

Pencarrow's Snowdrop Weekend is such a happy fixture in the calendar. It marks the promise of spring and the soon to be end of winter. This year the event falls on the 11th and 12th of February with a suggestion of £5 per person supporting two great charities. The Pearl Exchange and CLEAR, both focussed on helping young people.  Great causes but also a beautiful place to explore. If you don't know Pencarrow House and Gardens , just outside Wadebridge, then you are missing out! This ancient house is still family owned by the Molesworth-St Aubyns and is a wonderful day out. The snowdrop weekend makes the most of the sprawling grounds and woodland, but I would encourage you to come back when the house if fully open to book a tour and see the layers of history in every room. The gardens are charming with grottos, and iron age fort and Italian styled vistas with a cafe that serves delicious light lunches and cakes. I just love the wondering peacocks showing off their plumage.  ...

As well as enjoying the great outdoors, the recent lockdowns have meant many attractions having to go online. Screen time is probably off the chart right now with home schooling and work Zoom calls but if you fancy taking in some culture from your living room, here are some Cornish suggestions. Until the 22nd of February the Museum of Cornish Life in Helston are holding Facebook live crafting events on Mondays at 11.30am. You can follow along and get involved for free. It's really tricky to network at the moment and make connections, on Saturday the 20th Feb there's an online event for those passionate about film. It's free but places are limited so you need to book, but a great opportunity to be a part of the Cornwall Film Festival .   For £10 the whole family can get creative along with the St Ives School of Painting. Their Sunday Art Club , aimed at kids between 7 and 12, is a brilliant way to spark creativity when it can get really boring at home. The next ...

February in Cornwall is full of surprises. From snow days to balmy sunshine and our famous Cornish mizzle, February can have it all. I feel it is a month filled with hope, with Spring just round the corner, Cornwall wakes up from its wintery sleep first. Here are a few events to encourage you out of hibernation this Winter season: Rick Stein's Charity Lunches - Padstow's most famous resident offers great deals at the end of January and the beginning of February. In aid of the brilliant Cornwall Air Ambulance charity, from Monday 20th January to Thursday 13th February you can enjoy a delicious 3 course set menu at The Seafood Restaurant. Eden Project Ice Skating - Always popular with families, the ice rink finishes its winter run on the 23rd of February. The biomes are a brilliant place to go whatever the weather, I especially enjoy the tropical warmth on a cold day! February Half Term Rockpool Ramble at Hannifore Beach, Looe - Sunday the 23rd at 11am sees their ...