The Cornwall Blog

What we refer to as 'clay country' in Cornwall is the rugged landscapes that sits above St Austell. A landscape that has been mined and carved since the early 18th century. The richness of this landscape was discovered by William Cookworthy, and the fine white china clay is still mined today. There's a hotchpotch of villages with tight-nit communities where rugged hills provide far-reaching views and dug out valleys provide pools of turquoise waters.  After a stunning drive through these villages on a sunny day I wanted to delve a little deeper into the history, and what you can do here. When we first moved to Cornwall over 20 years ago, my dad joked that the little clay mound seen from many vantage point was my mum's 'mountain'. She had always wanted to live near mountains, and it seemed finally she would be! This relatively little mound is part of the legacy of an industrial past, but it's the glistening water-filled pits that really catch the eye on a sun...

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...

We are of slowly emerging out of winter, March is here, but for this month's blog post I wanted to revisit a special weekend last November at Marazion. It has to be one of the most magical places in Cornwall, an adorable village with a famous view that is ever changing as well as being ancient and immovable. A dear friend took me off to the lovely Godolphin Hotel for a weekend treat, and it really was perfect. The beauty of the colder months in Cornwall is the quietness, and it was just that, still, poignant and memorable. As you arrive in this little village, all attention centres on the island castle across the bay, and rightly so. The hotel itself is little but stylish, has a laid back charm and a playful feel. The kindest of people, they upgraded our room to one with a balcony and that fabulous view. The restaurant area was the perfect place to have a pre dinner cocktail and watch the sun sink into the horizon. I chatted with a chilled dad, who had snuck away while his kids we...

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...

Paradise Park in Hayle combines wildlife with indoor play January in Cornwall can be quieter, colder and a little unpredictable, but it is far from empty. Many attractions take a well-earned winter break, yet there are still plenty of places where you can meet animals, escape the rain, warm up indoors or simply enjoy a familiar attraction at a gentler pace. Here are some ideas for things to do in Cornwall during January, whether you are looking for a family day out, somewhere cosy on a wet afternoon or a reason to venture beyond the front door. Paradise Park, Hayle Some of the best winter days out involve animals, which of course do not disappear once the summer visitors have gone. Paradise Park in Hayle is home to colourful birds and other wildlife, while the indoor JungleBarn play centre is particularly useful when the weather turns. Winter opening days can vary, so it is worth checking the current timetable before setting off. Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek ...

The Standard Inn in Gerrans on the Roseland Peninsula Winter in Cornwall has a character all its own. The bright days of summer may have gone, but the quieter roads, dramatic skies and fireside stops bring a different kind of magic. There are windswept beaches, misty moors, seasonal events and plenty of places to warm up afterwards. Here are eight of my favourite ways to enjoy Cornwall during the colder months. 1. Settle into a cosy Cornish pub Watching stormy seas with a hot drink before retreating to a crackling fire is hard to beat. Cornwall has no shortage of welcoming pubs, whether they overlook the water or sit quietly in a village away from the coast. The Standard Inn in Gerrans is one lovely example, with seasonal food, real ales and roaring fires during the winter. Opening hours and menus can change, so booking ahead is sensible. 2. Go ice skating at the Eden Project Ice skating at the Eden Project For a properly wintry experience, th...

Despite the rather undulating nature of Cornwall, discovering our county by bike is a really great way to explore. Whether you fancy mountain biking through the forest trails at Cardinham Woods or a gentler pace, stopping to enjoy the estuary views towards Padstow on the Camel Trail, there is something for everyone. Here are a few of our favourites. Cornwall’s cycle routes can be enjoyed throughout the year. Autumn is particularly lovely, with quieter trails, crisp mornings and changing colours, while spring and summer bring longer days. Whatever the season, it is worth checking the weather and trail conditions before setting out. Lanhydrock and Cardinham Woods The Lanhydrock estate, just outside Bodmin, has some lovely trails specifically reserved for bikes. They are suitable for different abilities and can be great for all the family. You can find current information about outdoor activities and cycling at Lanhydrock on the National Trust website. ...