The Cornwall Blog

Readymoney Cove is one of my closest beaches and one of those places that feels instantly familiar. Tucked just outside Fowey, it has a sheltered sweep of sand, clear water, a tiny beach shop and a curious turreted shelter that gives the whole cove a slightly Famous Five character. On a sunny day it is a lovely family spot, with rocks to explore and boats slipping past the mouth of the river. When the weather is less obliging, there is still shelter, a hot drink and a very pleasant view of the sea. Readymoney in winter and summer Until recently, most of my visits had been on winter days. We would buy hot chocolate, settle beneath the covered terrace and watch braver people than us charge into the cold water. My first proper summer visit was more spontaneous. I had an hour spare, the sun was warm and my mum was keen, so we headed towards Fowey in search of ice cream with a view. The closest car park sits above the cove, so the journey ...

Up and down the country, communities celebrate with carnival weeks and summer festivals. This being Cornwall, we also have plenty of regattas to enjoy. Regattas are about much more than boat races. They bring together sailing, competitions, entertainment, food and music, with whole towns and harbours joining in. Three of the best-known are in Fowey, Charlestown and Falmouth, each with its own character. Fowey Royal Regatta Fowey Royal Regatta is the closest to me and probably one of my favourites. For one week each summer, the town fills with sailing, competitions, entertainment, food and music, drawing visitors from miles around. The sailing is at the heart of it, with dinghy racing, cruisers and Fowey's distinctive Troy Class boats out on the water. The regatta has a long history too, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. There is plenty happening ashore as well, so you certainly don't have to be a sailor to enjoy it. Check the Fowey Royal Re...

Here are a selection of photographs taken in August 2009 of the Red Arrows' display over Fowey. They were taken by David Julian and really capture the unusual light and drama of the moment, as they carve up the sky in front of ominous rain clouds.