The Cornwall Blog

If I’m honest, this is far more sun than I’m used to! I was actually grateful for the smattering of rain that crept in the other night. It got me thinking about the best ways to enjoy this heatwave or, at the very least, survive it. First, the sensible things: avoid the midday heat, slather yourself in sun cream, drink plenty of water and stay safe around the coast. Did you know there are even some Cornish sun cream brands? The RNLI also has some excellent water-safety advice. The Sea Let’s start with the obvious: the sea! We are surrounded by 422 miles of coastline, giving us more than 300 beaches. At this time of year, the sea is about as welcoming as it gets. Sea swimming can, of course, be a little risky, so the best bet is to seek out a lifeguarded beach or opt for a sea pool. You can also discover Cornwall’s tidal pools and lidos dotted around the coast. Water Parks and Attractions If you prefer your water thrown in your fa...

We are having a lovely summer so far in Cornwall, and with 422 miles of coast to explore, beaches are firmly on my mind! This month I thought I would pick out some of the best... Best for dogs In Cornwall, a lot of beaches have a dog ban in effect during the summer months, but there are still a few where you can exercise your canine friend. Harlyn Bay near Padstow, Watergate Bay at Newquay and Mexico Towans are just a few. Best for little ones If we are talking amenities, easy access and safe waters, then we love Gyllyngvase in Falmouth. With a café on the beach, toilets and close parking, it’s a no-brainer. East Looe Beach is another great option. Safe swimming, that cool Banjo Pier and golden sand for building castles. Perfect. We also like Bude’s Summerleaze Beach, with its sea pool offering a little protection from the tides. It is very close to the town centre too, and you could always rent a beach hut! Best for surf I m...

Up and down the country communities are celebrating with their carnival weeks, this being Cornwall we also have plenty of regattas to enjoy. Regattas are more than just boat races, with all sorts of competitions and entertainment, yummy food and music. Fowey's one is the closest to me and is probably one of the best, people come from miles around. From Sunday 13th to Saturday 19th of August, Fowey's Regatta is the place to see some beautiful boats. There will be dingy races, fishing boats, cruisers and Troys - a sailing boat built only in Fowey. This event has seen a few royals attend in the past, including our late queen and Victoria and Albert, it dates way back to 1835.  Another place I just love to go (especially in the warm summer evenings) is Charlestown. Famed for many period dramas as the go-to harbour location, they always have some beautiful boats to peruse. Already in full swing, Charlestown's Regatta runs this year from Saturday 29th July to Friday the 4th of ...

Cornwall may be renowned for its spring gardens, but for summer colour I think we still shine brightly. For truly stunning displays of flower and foliage check out these few favourite places...  Lamorran is a garden that feels like a holiday. Italian inspired with epic views of the coast beyond, you will find this little gem near St Mawes on the Roseland.  Cotehele House and Gardens is actually one of my favourite in Cornwall, down Plymouth way. A lovely one to visit in winter time as well, as they display dried flowers in a giant garland in the great hall. In the summer time there is still plenty to interest, with tranquil walks down to the river (and a cool manor house to explore, a bonus in the heat!)  Glendurgan may be famed for its wiggly maze but the gardens near Falmouth are also a joy for their summer florals. Splashes of colour abound with hydrangeas and foxgloves dappled here and there, plus there is a beach at the bottom - what's not to like!  Hidden Va...

I am writing this on a stunningly warm June day, the perfect backdrop to dream about long summer evenings and outdoor cocktails with fab entertainment. Of course, in reality, Cornwall can have truly cold and wet summers, but right now lets dream we can enjoy the outside lifestyle just as much as our European neighbours.  There are so many events opening up which is lovely to see, some restricted but well thought through, to cope with Covid. Outside really does seem to be the way to go, so here are 5 events up and down the county that look to bring those summer vibes we are all longing for after a trying year.  Sterts Theatre on Bodmin Moor have announced their summer season. My younger brother used to be involved with them when he was little and he loved it! Their open air auditorium provides shelter as well as ventilation to enjoy the family friendly entertainment. We have the likes of Shrek, The Wolf From the Door, Romeo and Juliette as well as Alice in Wonderland. Check ou...

Watching movies is quintessential holiday fun, and come rain or shine you can enjoy the latest releases or some great classics this summer in Cornwall. When the weather is balmy then it can be hard to drag yourself from the beach, there is no need this August with open air cinema. At Falmouth's Pendennis Castle you can watch Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl on the 8th, A Knight’s Tale on the15th and Shrek on the 22nd August 2019. Or head to Porthminster Beach for Finding Nemo on the 18th, Disney's Moana on the 25th August and Les Miserables on the 1st September 2019. Plenty of opportunity to watch some real family favourites in fabulous locations! Find out more at the website, open air cinema Cornwall .