www.visitcornwall.com 2009 Destination Guide is often described as the ‘garden capital of the world’… Cornwall

Gardens of Cornwall map inside 08 …as the lush vegetation and colour give garden Cornwall gardens guide lover’s a feast for the eyes all year round. Whether you are a serious horticulturalist, specialist gardener or enthusiastic amateur, Cornwall’s magnificent gardens can show you everything from wild woodland to neatly manicured lawns, the small and unusual, to the large and famous whose plants, flowers, palms and trees thrive in Cornwall’s mild coastal climate.

To request a copy of the latest Cornwall Gardens guide call 01872 322900

www.gardensofcornwall.com Visit us at www.gardensofcornwall.com

For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Contents 1

Welcome

In the last decade, Cornwall has emerged as Free therapy 2 one of the world’s iconic destinations. From the Enjoying Cornwall’s natural environment dramatic coastline of the north to the sheltered bays in the south, from ancient moorland to The evolution of food 8 soft river estuaries, surfers, walkers, sailing buffs, The food and drink scene in Cornwall gastronauts and visitors just simply seeking a break from a hectic world have discovered a fascinating, vibrant culture, first-class accommodation, food to Naturally unique 14 die for and a naturally thrilling adventure playground. A Passion for Gardening

We’ve brought together people who are going to Rising up to the challenge 20 share with you their passion for Cornwall to help Getting active outdoors you discover for yourself the endless possibilities of a visit here. You’ll read about people who are constantly inspired by where they live, inspired 7,000,000,000,000,000 grains of sand... 28 to break the mould. People who are re-modelling The beaches of Cornwall the food industry and creating excellence in the accommodation sector. People with a passion for Welcome home 34 the landscape, for creating world-class gardens Family farmyard fun and, of course, those of us who just simply enjoy the stimulating activities on offer in Cornwall’s Green and Gorgeous 44 captivating surroundings. Dick Strawbridge’s outlook So, take your time, relax and flick through these pages and find out why Cornwall is not Cultural legacy 50 just a holiday destination, but a place to be, A glance at Cornwall’s arts, culture & heritage a place to experience. No matter how long you stay or whatever time of year, Cornwall is always Celebrating excellence 60 here to inspire you too. Come and share it with us. Cornwall’s Tourism Award winners

Useful contacts 62

Getting here 64 2 Free therapy For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 3

Free therapy In this frantic world we live in, it’s good to know there is somewhere that just about ticks all the boxes when it comes to getting rid of all that stress …that’s right, Cornwall. 4 Free therapy For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

One of the simplest ways to feel more positive is to smile and you’ll find that grinning is a regular pastime in Cornwall. You just can’t help it.

Whether you’re laying out on a stretch of sand staring at the sky or catching flakes of foam floating off giant Atlantic rollers in the depths of winter, there RACHEL HUTTY, 46 is a sense of satisfaction and freedom in being so close to nature. InspIREd bY: KIT HILL Exercise is another great way to get your yin and yang back in harmony and speaking of nature, Cornwall’s fantastic landscape means there’s plenty of Library Assistant Rachel likes the welcoming sight space in which to get active. With 290 miles of coastal footpath, a huge of one of Cornwall’s highest locations. “I’m lucky network of cycle trails and world-class surfing, sailing, kayaking, rock climbing, enough to live at the bottom of Kit Hill and could scuba diving and horse riding, well, you can probably work it out that whatever easily spend a lot of my time walking around its you’re up for, in Cornwall you’re going to start feeling a lot healthier. gorse lined pathways or simply sitting at the top gazing at the wonderful panorama of a patchwork After all that exertion, it’s important you get enough rest and whether you’re of fields and the sea shimmering far off in the snug in rural seclusion at a farm cottage or the hotel room you’re in hangs off distance. To me it’s like a waiting mother on the a cliff overlooking the sea, you can chill out to a backing track of birds singing, doorstep, welcoming me home. Once I see the rollers crashing on the shore or just the unbelievable silence. And after sight of the tall tower on its summit I know I’m breathing in that old magic ingredient, fresh air, you’re sure to get the best nearly there. night’s sleep you’ve had in ages and all that renewed energy is bound to have you thinking more positively. “Kit Hill has always been a part of my life. I can Getting out and having fun with your family and friends is also an ideal way to remember coming here relax and in Cornwall’s pubs, bars and restaurants you’ll find a warm welcome with my grandparents wherever you go. Catch an up-and-coming band or join in with a male voice when I was very young, choir belting out traditional songs or how about dancing through the streets showing it off to friends on carnival days when ancient festivals are kept alive in a flurry of bizarre when I got older, then costumes and plenty of high spirits. Eating well makes you feel better too and later in my life, strolling in Cornwall, you’ll find a slice of gourmet heaven. Fresh vegetables, locally around putting the world caught seafood, superb cheeses and stunning wines along with traditional to rights with my saffron cakes, and all make up a fabulous menu husband and nowadays, guaranteed to remind you what real food tastes like. both of us flying kites with our son.” And why not get a bit tactile while you’re here? Getting up close and personal can banish the blues in a second and Cornwall is the perfect romantic getaway. A walk along the beach in a balmy sunset, a winter weekend holed up in a cosy cottage on the moor or an intimate meal at a harbourside restaurant is more than enough to light that spark and definitely stimulating enough to rekindle the old romantic in you.

Spend some time in Cornwall and you’ll be ready to take on the world again; it’s what we call the ideal therapy!

Spend some time in Cornwall and you’ll be ready to take on the world again; it’s what we call the ideal therapy! But don’t just take our word for it, we’ve asked five people who live and work in Cornwall to let you into a few secrets and reveal some inspirational places where they find stress just simply disappears. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 5

pHIL WATERs 36, InspIREd bY: GOLITHA FALLs

Phil, a Play Officer at the Eden Project, chooses Golitha Falls where he thinks the ‘little’ people may still live amongst the trees. “If existed I am certain they would live here, hiding among the rocks and banks of the river. Their playful antics could inspire our own sense of adventure, by jumping tree stumps and scampering across fallen logs that offer the visitor a bridge from one side of the river to the other.

“The captivating waterfalls invite the visitor to venture just a little further than usual and the more curious of us are embraced by the “If pixies existed I am certain they mystical depths of the woodlands. If one stops and admires the trees for too long would live here, hiding among their leafy arms may take you much further than you dare, until you eventually come the rocks and banks of the river.“ upon the trickle of a stream that just a while back was a furious, foaming torrent.” 6 Free therapy For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

MARK AndREW dEARdEn, 42 InspIREd bY: THE MUsEUM

Mark is a headmaster and is captivated by the sensuous form of sculpture that reflects Cornwall’s landscape.

“The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden in St Ives is a hidden gem. Most people ‘do’ the Gallery and feel that ‘art’ has been ticked off their agenda and head for the shops and beaches but for me the bronze, stone and wood forms that are truly at home here in the garden offer a unique insight into the work of this influential artist. In this tranquil spot, the mind can really loose itself and enter a fantasy realm.

JEAN COOMBE, 76 INSPIREd BY: dAYMER BAY

Jean has lived all her life in the county and is still mesmerised by Daymer Bay on the north coast. “I used to go there on Sunday school trips back in the early 40s. The first time I went, I remember being overwhelmed by the vastness of the beach and the seemingly huge sea that stretched before me. Through a child’s eyes it was a different, dreamlike world and now, whenever I return, I get the same feeling of how It could be the interplay of the surrounding restful and peaceful it is there. plants and the exhibits, the image of the clouds on the sculpture surfaces or the “Even at my age I lead a very frantic life, but there smooth, cool contact of the brass under the on the beach at Daymer Bay, I can stand still in stroke of my hand. Every time I go, there is life, and let the world pass by for a while and it something new that catches my eye and gives me such joy to see children playing the same stimulates my mind.” games on the beach as we did all those years ago.” For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 7

ROZ DAVIS, 33 Inspired By: Cape Cornwall

Roz, a development officer for the NHS, loves the far west of Cornwall where the land drops into the vast Atlantic Ocean.

“Cape Cornwall still has that wonderfully romantic, atmospheric, wild, threatening and untamed feeling. I love the coast and the sea anyway and this place sums up what that’s all about – you could easily imagine you were alone in the world up there at the top of the cliffs. It makes me feel very small and insignificant but immensely privileged but at the same time full of shame for what we are doing to the planet. Any truly wild, lonely, spectacular landscape would have the same kind of feel to it, but at Cape Cornwall it’s as if you’re standing at the world’s end. It takes some of the ‘humdrum’ out of life, knowing I can get to a place like this!”

“Through a child’s eyes it was a different, dreamlike world and now, whenever I return, I get the same feeling of how restful and peaceful it is there.” 8 The evolution of food For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

The evolution of food Cornwall’s food culture breaks the mould as the celebration of the traditional and the modern fuses into a flavour that is uniquely Cornish… and sublimely delicious. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 9 10 The evolution of food For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

I treasure my secret place, on a craggy shore in North Cornwall where I take my family and teach my children to swim. Snorkelling in one of the deep rock pools there earlier this year I was within inches of catching a barnacle-clad lobster. It flexed it’s tail and escaped underneath a mass of kelp. Still, for it’s sake, just as well really. I’d already begun to picture him grilled with some nice Cornish new potatoes.

The produce down here is without doubt the best I have ever known. It’s no wonder that London restaurants list “Cornish” shellfish and fish on their menus. The thing is, we have access to this variety and quality of produce all year round and at our fingertips here in Cornwall. The seasons bring different menu ideas to my restaurant, and allow me sometimes to provide dishes that other restaurants “up country” can only dream of. You only have to sit on the quay in Mevagissey in November and watch the evening catch come ashore to see what I mean. Bass, Mackerel and Red Mullet are still caught in Cornish waters at that time.

The dining scene in Cornwall has improved markedly in the last 10 years and there is now something for everyone in the County. Witness the growth in “Gastro Tourism” into the region. I see this trend as only just beginning, and it will grow and grow. It is up to us as restaurateurs and chefs to improve the standard further and consign the soggy chips, deep fried “roast” potatoes and thrice reheated carrots to history.

I try and make my restaurant as unpretentious as possible. It’s great to see so called “fine dining” being carried out in flip flops and casual attire. My food is based on flavours and the quality of the raw produce. I often use overlooked and unfashionable ingredients to produce a memorable dish, based often on what we used to eat as kids. Whilst Cornwall must always seek to provide better facilities and attractions for it’s many visitors, I’ve always fancied that it’s this sense of nostalgia which brings so many people to the County, old and new.

Happy Cooking.

One of the UK’s top chefs, Nathan Outlaw was a protégé of Rick Stein and now runs the Michelin-starred Restaurant Nathan Outlaw based within the Marina Villa Hotel in

www.themarinahotel.co.uk/nathanoutlaw For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 11

Cornwall has long been seen as the home of pasties, cream teas and saffron cake and while these icons of traditional culture are still cherished by both those who live here and visitors to the county, the food and drink industry in Cornwall has exploded in the last few years with imaginative and award-winning producers springing up throughout the county.

Here, amongst the rich dairy produce, fine meat and early soft fruits and vegetables you can find over 60 cheeses, ranging from creamy Cornish Brie to cheese matured in local cider. Artisan bakers turn out loaves of fig and black pepper and blue cheese and walnut. Even chillies are grown in the county’s old mining heartland and the county is, quite literally, awash with fascinating microbreweries, cider orchards and vineyards. Needless to say, this eclectic selection of fine food and drink has made its way onto the tables of the best chefs in Cornwall, creating a food lover’s paradise.

…this eclectic selection of fine food Food and Drink Events 2009 and drink has made its way onto the tables of the best chefs in Cornwall, 25-27 September (TBC) creating a food lover’s paradise. Cornwall Food and drink Festival, www.cornwallfoodanddrinkfestival.com Many people come to Cornwall just to discover and 3-4 October enjoy the wealth of dining opportunities across the Boscastle Food, Arts and Crafts Festival, Boscastle county and if you’re starting at the top end of the www.visitboscastle.co.uk market, then you won’t go far wrong at the Michelin starred Abbey Restaurant in where head 11-13 October (TBC) chef, Michael Riemenschneider heads up a stellar team Fish Festival, Newquay creating dishes with great flair and originality and the www.newquayfishfestival.co.uk award-winning Ripley’s near run by Rick Stein’s former head chef, Paul Ripley, is famous for its use of 15-18 October (TBC) seasonal produce and incomparable service. Falmouth Oyster Festival, Falmouth www.falmouthoysterfestival.co.uk Perhaps the definitive place for good food with a wow factor is the Jamie Oliver inspired Fifteen at Watergate 7 November – 13 December (TBC) Bay. Much has been written about the pioneering Taste South East Cornwall, and Polperro scheme at the restaurant to help youngsters from www.taste-southeastcornwall.com deprived areas get a foot on the culinary ladder and the spectacular views across this two-mile beach but less frequently written about is the ethos behind the high quality Mediterranean-influenced dishes which come with a Cornish twist. Sustainability is the key here, where local means just that, and food miles are kept to a minimum, setting an example for local sourcing that many others in Cornwall have been eager to follow.

Sustainability is the key here, where local means just that, and food miles are kept to a minimum…

For the more budget conscious, there are plenty of other places to enjoy a great meal, some with stunning coastal views and others surrounded by gorgeous rural landscapes. For food with an ocean view try the 12 The evolution of food For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 13

appropriately named The View at Whitsand Bay perched high on Cornwall has at last reclaimed its the cliff with sweeping view across the bay. The Beach at Sennen agricultural and fishing heritage and the Cove is perfect for a leisurely breakfast right on the sand looking out to sea. Sit on the terrace at Three Mackerel near Falmouth and contemporary food scene is a discovery of enjoy lunch in the sun or try The Godrevy Café in St Ives Bay with infinite pleasure, making the county one a romantic view to the lighthouse. For a more country experience, of the best food destinations in Europe. Trevaskis Farm near and Carruan Farm near Polzeath are both farm restaurants that major on simple, affordable food, cooked on the premises, much of which is sourced from their own farms. Visitors to the Lost Gardens of Heligan near Mevagissey for example, shouldn’t miss Lobb’s Farm Shop which stocks meat It is also Cornwall’s farmers that have helped direct the spotlight and vegetables from the farm and has a fascinating interpretation on to Cornish produce, having gained a reputation for producing centre, giving a season by season picture of exactly how the food food of the highest standards in terms of quality, the environment on sale has been grown and processed. and animal welfare. Other farm shops to look out for include the Padstow Farm Shop, All over the county you can come across where many of the herbs, salads and vegetables come straight fresh produce sold from source. Whether it’s from the owners’ walled garden and at Tim Jones’ Trevelyan Farm the new crop of strawberries sold from a Shop not far from Penzance, you’ll find a fantastic selection of organic produce. trailer at the farm gate or a busy farm shop Fish lovers have plenty to choose from, too. In , the county’s All over the county you can come across fresh produce sold from largest fish port, Harvey’s offer ready prepared crabs and shellfish, source. Whether it’s the new crop of strawberries sold from a trailer while next-door Robin Turner has the freshest fish, landed that at the farm gate or a busy farm shop selling fresh vegetables and morning. St Ives, , Fowey, Penryn, Port Isaac and Looe meat supplied by farmers from the surrounding villages, more and all have fleets selling only the best of Cornish seafood and be sure more people are rediscovering Cornwall’s agricultural roots and to try some oysters from the Helford and the Fal rivers and mussels there is a real thrill in finding out what’s new on the shelf, what’s grown on the . in season and what new products are coming through from the county’s innovative food producers, all of which means you’ll be Cornwall has at last reclaimed its agricultural and fishing heritage spoilt for choice when you want to pack up a picnic and ideal if and the contemporary food scene is a discovery of infinite pleasure, you’re self-catering. making the county one of the best food destinations in Europe. Boscastle Festival Sat 3rd & Sun 4th Oct www.visitboscastle.co.uk Walking Festival April/May 2010 Organised by Boscastle Chamber of Trade & Commerce 14 Naturally unique For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Naturally unique From blustery moors and humid woodlands to balmy estuaries and sub-tropical valleys, warmed by the Gulf Stream and surrounded on three sides by open sea, Cornwall’s unique location provides diverse habitats where extraordinary plants thrive in a variety of spectacular gardens. Cornwall 2009 15 16 Naturally unique For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Travel anywhere in Cornwall and you’ll be amazed how lush everything seems. A thousand shades of green blanket the landscape, punctuated with an abundance of wild flowers that fill hedgerows and cover woodland floors in a glorious natural display. Early in the year daffodils and primroses push their way out into the winter sun, in summer tropical flowers flourish, rare plants found nowhere else in the UK find a stronghold on granite outcrops that fall to the sea and even grape vines and tea bushes thrive in Cornwall’s unique climate.

It’s no wonder then that the county has become a land of gardeners whose passion has created scores of exceptional masterpieces for you to enjoy. Take a look at six gardens around the county that have helped make Cornwall the ‘Garden Capital of the World’. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 17

MARSH VILLA Par,

Judith Stephens’ husband Harvey claims the most remarkable thing about this garden is his wife’s complete dedication, perseverance and hard work that have turned this former marshy field, which at one time contained one solitary tree, into a perfectly cultivated piece of land. Most of the land on which the garden now stands was subject to a flood relief scheme CHYGURNO 20 years ago. Previously, Harvey’s family Lamorna, Penzance had raised the level by 6 feet using lumps of china clay, clinker from the gas works Nothing can really prepare you for the and household rubbish as infill. due to dramatic location of this cliff top garden. Harvey’s reluctance to go on holiday or Approached from behind a granite stone have a day out, Judith decided to create house, the view from the top of the garden what she describes as ‘…our own piece of literally falls in front of you – a precipitous happiness at home’, so with an iron bar, valley wall blooming in a riot of colour that she started to loosen the compacted and seems to disappear into the sea. Here, THE JAPANESE GARDEN unproductive soil and gradually started species from the southern hemisphere thrive St Mawgan, Newquay planting, working her way out from the in the frost free, salty air with banana plants, house and eventually into the 3 acre field. Canary Island foxgloves and silver tree ferns declutter your mind and cleanse your adding exotic weight to more familiar azaleas soul, that’s the philosophy of this garden and agapanthus. created by Robert Hore and his wife Stella. Set in one and a half acres, this garden Two suffragettes built the house, which sits at exudes tranquillity based on Japanese the top of the garden, in the early part of the design incorporating a scale and last century and at Chygurno, that pioneering perspective that looks totally natural spirit has clearly continued. In less than 10 but belies a carefully contrived intent. years, Robert Moule and his wife Carol have Cloud-cut box trees, bamboo and over created a garden from a literal wilderness 120 species of maple create a backdrop terracing the garden, constructing paths down for oriental statuary and unobtrusive water the valley and slowly clearing the impenetrable features while a maze of pathways invite jungle of fallen trees, brambles and scrub, you to take a spiritual journey, taking you which once blocked out the sea view. past the Koi carp pool, teahouse and Zen Unquestionably a connoisseur’s garden garden. This garden is the result of Robert’s with people visiting from all over the world to lifelong passion for bonsai that encouraged experience the exceptional collection of plants him to give up life in London 23 year’s ago, and its jaw-dropping location, Chygurno is return home to Cornwall with his family truly one of the gems in Cornwall’s and spend 6 years creating the garden you embarrassment of dazzling gardens. see today. Robert admits that this is not a plantsman’s garden but one of harmony 01736 732153 that comes from his pleasure in shaping the Through Judith’s self confessed random trees and creating a perfect balance of scale. planting, today towering beeches, maples and leylandii edge the garden presenting An all season garden, as it can look its unexpected secluded spaces from a formal best covered in frost or light snow as well cottage garden to a jungle area lush with as in spring and autumn when the colour tree ferns and gunnera. The 14 acres of the changes in the maples look spectacular, untouched marsh is an area of special here you can try the art of Zen which scientific interest that gives a glimpse into, philosophises “Live for now and enjoy what is nationally, a fast disappearing the moment” and in this garden you’ll habitat where visitors can wander through find that’s an easy thing to do. surroundings inhabited by deer, otters and an eclectic mix of birdlife. www.thebonsainursery.com www.marshvillagardens.co.uk 01637 860116 01726 815920 18 Naturally unique For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

TREBAH GARDENS Mawnan Smith, Falmouth

Trebah is another story of a once illustrious Cornish garden saved from approaching oblivion. First extensively planted 130 years ago, the garden reached a golden age at the turn of the 20th century when it acquired a huge collection of exotic plants and trees from all over the world including many rare rhododendrons but gradually over time, the garden fell into decay. In 1981 Tony and Eira Hibbert took over Trebah and you’ll get a definite sense of the exotic. discovered that beneath the overgrown Chaffinches dart under heavy canopies jungle they had bought was a once of hydrangea and camellia, chusan palms famous garden and set about renovating wave in the breeze and there is a heavy the 26 acre site. Entering this garden today, humidity in the air rising up from the which flows by at the end of a deep ravine; you might almost expect to find a lost dinosaur creeping amongst the clumps of bamboo here. It’s one big adventure for children as the garden provides a maze of oversized plants to explore and for the garden enthusiast there’s a huge collection of rare species to discover.

www.trebah-garden.co.uk 01326 2 52200

Caerhays Visit Cornwall ad:Layou

Caerhays Castle Gardens

60 acres of spectacular springtime A sub-tropical valley garden with woodland gardens. private beach - excitingly different Home of National Open daily 10.30am to 5pm Magnolia Collection Visitor Centre, Cafe, Caerhays Castle Gardens, Plant Sales, Gallery and Garden Shops. Gorran, St Austell PL26 6LY Trebah is a registered charity. Contact The Estate Office Tel: 01872 501310 Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth TR11 5JZ T: 01326 252200 www.trebah-garden.co.uk www.caerhays.co.uk For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 19

TREWITHEN GARDENS A MATCH MAdE Probus, Truro

IN HEAVEN If ever there was a place to make you want At the end of the last ice age, to don your frock coats and crinolines, then Cornwall was a barren wasteland to Trewithen epitomises the small country where intrepid plant species from estate beloved of all Jane Austen fans. The southern Europe found their way. house, occupied by the Hawkins family for Gradually new species miraculously generations, is one of the finest examples emerged and Dr Colin French, of 18th century architecture in Cornwall Botanical Society of the British Isles and the gardens provide gentle respite Recorder for West Cornwall, reveals NORTHWOOD FARM GARDENS from the present as you promenade that Cornwall is now home to several St Neot, through colonnades of sycamores and rare species. “In fact nearly one 250-year-old oak trees. hundred endangered plants thrive in People are sometimes overcome with sheer the county”, he says “Especially on joy when they visit this theatrical gem of the Lizard peninsula where unique a garden created by artist Mackenzie Bell and geographical and climatic conditions his partners Justin and Nick. Situated just on create a safe habitat. the southern edge of Moor, it’s hard to imagine anywhere more unlikely for his One of the rarest species is Limonium horticultural experiment than this isolated old Loganicum, a sea lavender, which is clay drying works which, in just 5 years, has only found between Logan Rock and been transformed into a four acre garden to Porthgwarra”. Cornwall’s seafaring challenge traditionalists. trade has also contributed to the county’s diverse flora, inadvertently As an artist, Mackenzie takes his inspiration This is a garden that wonderfully illustrates bringing new species to the ports of from the painter Claude Monet and the the adventures of the early 20th century the county through ships’ ballast and eccentric scientist and designer Otto plant hunters. These intrepid collectors in grain imports and the great estate Overbeck, creating a three dimensional travelled the world bringing back seeds, gardens have always been pioneers in garden sculpted with shrubs, trees and many of which found their way to introducing and cultivating exotic architectural features which reveal the rebel Trewithen. Nearly 100 years later, visitors species. Dr French adds, “Even today in his design. can now see the spectacular results with a new residents whose seeds and bulbs world-class collection of specimens from have drifted on ocean winds and High up on the moor where the weather can China to Chile, North America to New waves make their homes along the be inclement to say the least, Mackenzie Zealand and all points between. coast of Cornwall, all of which has plants banana trees, Cordyline palms and helped to create the county’s unique Canna lilies which unbelievably flourish and beautiful landscape”. against a setting of eight ponds which flow into a small lake with an island reminiscent of something from a gothic romance novel replete with a dreamy archway adorned with climbing roses. Clashing colours, elements of surprise and humour and juxtaposing the flamboyant with the rural illustrate Mackenzie’s direct parallels between painting and garden design. The 30-acre garden’s other claim to fame is its champion trees, individual examples www.northwoodgardens.co.uk that are the broadest or tallest in the UK 01579 320030 and the garden has 24 such examples including towering rhododendrons and huge magnolias.

www.trewithengardens.co.uk 01726 883647

These are only a small selection of the gardens that can be visited in Cornwall. For further information, please go to www.gardensofcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 to request the Cornwall Gardens Guide. 20 Rising up to the challenge For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Rising up to the challenge

Cornwall’s natural assets aren’t only fantastic to look at but can also provide a well-needed adrenalin boost for those of us a little jaded by life. The soaring sea cliffs, gigantic waves and wide-open spaces have become a magnet for surfers, climbers, and cyclists who are getting active and definitely having loads of fun. Cornwall 2009 21 22 Rising up to the challenge For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

SURF’S UP

Riding the wave in Cornwall has become so popular you can now take a surf science degree at a local university and one of the locations where aficionados of the sport learn about rip tides, offshore currents and life saving is Lusty Glaze Beach.

This privately owned cove near Newquay also provides thrilling activities such as coasteering, rock climbing and abseiling. So, where better to take a family of novices for a day of awesome adventures? For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 23

The Challenge: Two hours of Surf School and abseiling from a 100 foot-high zip wire.

Up for it: The Elvans family from Falmouth. Karen, Geraint and their two daughters Holly and Rachel.

Previous Form: Geraint has been surfing once and managed to stand up for approximately one second so, hopes to hang on for at least five this time: loves anything that makes his heart beat a little faster. Karen feels that as someone born and bred in Cornwall, it’s time to stop lounging on the beach watching her friends surf and is excited to be finally getting on a board but she is already terrified at the thought of the zip wire. The girls appear outwardly fearless but Rachel admits to being a little scared as she points at the waves, which are getting gradually bigger. Holly is unphased and is the first down to the shore. The High Wire: From the top of the 100-foot cliff face, the beach The Instructor: Olaf, bronzed below seems an awfully long way down. Rachel was told she was with chiselled good looks, almost too light to go down the wire but she says she had an extra people skills in abundance. sausage for lunch so feels ready to launch herself over the edge. Karen, despite her bravado in the surf decides to sit this one out but is concerned about the prospect of seeing her family suspended in midair far above her. Holly’s heart is beating fast as she nervously puts on the harness. Olaf explains in detail the procedure that seems not unlike the brief for a parachute jump and before they realise it, Holly and Rachel are off the platform and screaming their way down the wire and across the wide beach. Rachel has a little trouble with the abseiling and there is a tense moment when she appears to get stuck half way down the rope, but finally both are on the ground and receive congratulatory hugs from mum. Lastly, Geraint launches himself on the wire adopting a laid-back pose as he hurtles down towards his family and expertly drops to the beach.

Debrief: Karen confesses she was worried about the zip wire before she came but says the trainers at Lusty Glaze are so good that she relaxed and really loved watching the girls come down the wire and she might just be tempted to give it a go next time. Still excited, Rachel admits the first two seconds were really scary but then it just Surf’s Up: After a tenuous start, the Elvans family soon start to get felt like flying and although Holly was really nervous before she a feel for the waves and under Olaf’s skilled guidance make an jumped, she now can’t wait to do it again as it was such fun. attempt to stand up on their boards. And it’s little Rachel that gets Geraint just looks up at the wire and smiles, “Incredible” he says. her balance first. Not to be outdone, dad Geraint goes further out and, after a few dunkings, manages to stay up long enough to let Verdict: All agree it was a fantastic day out. The girls admit it was out a triumphant yell before disappearing under the surf. Holly’s so nice having mum and dad join them for the activities and Karen determination finally pays off as she gracefully surfs into shore with is impressed by the professionalism of the instructors, which all the panache of a professional. Meanwhile, Karen is content to instilled a sense of trust. Geraint says that having one and half stay kneeling on her board, but her beaming smile is proof enough hours in the surf meant they were able to achieve so much and that she knows she became a real surfer today and is obviously believes that when you start doing these kind of activities, it makes enjoying watching her family’s brilliant efforts. you more confident to try something more challenging. With that Karen, feeling a bit of a lightweight for not doing the zip wire, Debrief: Rachel stands on the shore and says she feels a little cold straps on a harness and heads towards the cliff face obstacle but would definitely do it again. Karen is still beaming and declares course. Struggling up a wet and slippery chasm, climbing over ropes that she is a changed woman and will no longer sit on the beach and under rocks, she reaches the top breathless in the pouring rain. looking after the bags, but insists she will be in the water with everyone All of a sudden there is a round of applause from the beach below. else. Holly is so pleased she stood up so quickly and definitely wants a surf board for Christmas and Geraint admits he could get quite Lusty Glaze Adventure Centre hooked and can’t wait to get out there in the waves again. www.lustyglaze.co.uk 01637 872444 24 Rising up to the challenge For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Seeing Cornwall from a bike saddle guarantees plenty of gorgeous scenery and a great workout, too. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 25

Diary dates

Surfing Watch surf and skate pros in action and let your hair down at one of the music gigs or after-parties at the week long Rip Curl Boardmasters surf, skate and music festival, based at Newquay on the north coast. 3–9 August.

Sailing Head for Falmouth in August to watch the classic boats racing in the harbour during Henri-Lloyd Falmouth Week, and join in with the partying at the apres-sail festivities. 8–15 August.

Make your way over to Fowey to watch the streets erupt into colour for the annual Fowey Sailing Regatta, when you can watch daily sailing races and take in a display by the Red Arrows. 16–22 August.

Ice Skating Pull on a pair of skates and take to the ice (and then calm your nerves with a cup of mulled wine or a hot chocolate) during the Eden Project’s ‘Time of Gifts’ PEDAL (November to February), when you can experience POWER sub-zero and tropical temperatures all in one day.

Claire and Jonny Vickers slump down at the table and nurse their large mugs of coffee. “I’m exhausted” announces Claire. Jonny chips in and says that they have only cycled eight miles and most of lunchtime was spent in the pub but even so the combination of physical exertion and a leisurely lunch has left them both totally worn out. Today Claire and Jonny have decided to off-load their two young children and spend some time together.

“Quality time, to use that phrase” giggles Claire. “Yes, “Cycling is easy here because they know all there is but we stopped at the idea of hiring a tandem!” Jonny to know about bikes so whether you’re a novice or an replies. Claire who works in marketing and Jonny in the expert you’re well catered for and it’s safe, there’s auction business are at The Mineral Tramways Cycle no traffic to worry about” says Claire who admits to Trail centred around , which is one of the largest getting a real sense of freedom being out in any cycle networks in the UK with seven different routes weather riding the various trails. that take cyclists over contrasting scenery. “Even if there’s a bit of rain, I just breathe in all the “We love it here” says Claire. “And we live nearby, so it’s fresh air and just think how lucky I am… and it’s a easy to come whenever we feel we’re up for a good great aerobic workout!” Jonny agrees and recalls when workout. With so many different routes it’s easy to they used to live in London. “I was brought up in choose one to suit your level and today we’ve opted for Cornwall and I’m so glad to be back here again. I often something more sedate, down through the woods to say to myself, what would I be doing now if I were in the river”. Jonny agrees that it makes a nice change to the city? Nothing! But here I am having a great day in do something active. “It’s all too easy to stay within beautiful surroundings with my family. This is the kind four walls” he admits, “We always deliberate about of life they can only dream about in London”. coming but by the time we get home we’ve had such a great day together”. The hire centre likes to make life Cornwall Cycle Hire easy and provides well-maintained, comfortable bikes www.cornwallcyclehire.com along with security locks, maps and a repair kit. 01872 870341 26 Rising up to the challenge For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

SCHOOL’S OUT

Entertaining the kids on holiday can be tough, but in Cornwall it’s Jake is the first to try his hand. “Look, I’ve caught the breeze” he not difficult to get them active with some entertaining days out at shouts and he shakily drifts across the water. By the time all three the county’s inland lakes. have had a go; they’re ravenous and head for the shore. Sitting down to a well-earned lunch, they all excitedly talk at once. Sue Brown takes three eager lads to Siblyback Lake in East Cornwall “That was great,” says Jamie, “dan was nice and he explained to try their hand at some activities on the water. It’s already the first everything individually to us so it gave us bags of confidence”. week of the school holidays and my detailed plans to entertain the “Sure” says Ross, “I felt secure here and I’m so glad I turned out to boys for the summer, engineered with military precision I might add, be the best windsurfer!” Jake gives him a playful thump and admits have already gone haywire so in desperation I’ve packed Ross and that the lake is great place to practice something new. his school friend Jake both 11 and my eldest son Jamie, 13 in the car. The sun’s out, were heading to a nearby reservoir on Bodmin Moor and basically the boys are eager to get wet. “The water’s calm, the shoreline’s not

We meet up with instructor dan whose first line is, “Are you ready far away and best of all, you don’t get to fall in?” Following a rousing “Yes”, the boys put on their wetsuits mouthfuls of salty water!” ready to have a go at kayaking and a spot of wind surfing and I’m heading towards the café for a cup of coffee. I’m a bit anxious about Ross as he’s not that keen on the water but I think this will be “The water’s calm, the shoreline’s not far away and best of all, you a good introduction for him, I mean he’s not going to drift off over don’t get mouthfuls of salty water!” As for me, I felt totally happy the horizon or anything; it’s not a huge lake after all. to let them go off on their own knowing they were in dan’s capable hands, and I’ve had a relaxing morning, feeding the ducks reading First up is kayaking and the boys are paddling fast up the lake my book and of course I’m proud of the boys for doing so well. towards the bridge stopping on the way to stand up on their bright definitely a Brownie point to me I think. yellow kayaks and jump in the water. Ross is smiling; I’m thinking he’s ok then. dan stays with them all the way and by the time they return South West Lakes Trust Sibleyback Reservoir they all look pretty confident and I feel they could quite well qualify www.swlakestrust.org.uk 01579 346522 for the next bright yellow kayak Olympic team. Jamie yells across, “Hey mum, this is much better than sitting around at home all If you’re itching to experience some of the other exhilarating morning.” I am now smug. Next, dan goes through the intricacies outdoor activities Cornwall has to offer, go to: of windsurfing with a demo board on land, the boys are unusually www.visitcornwall.com or call us on 01872 322900. attentive in anticipation of who will be the first to fall in I think. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 27

South West Lakes… fun for all the family Escape to the country for a variety of great activities... • sailing • windsurfi ng • • canoeing • rowing • • fi shing • walking • • camping • Follow the ...or just relax in our tea rooms brown tourism signs to Tamar Lakes near the Lakes Siblyback Lake near Liskeard Check our Stithians Lake near Falmouth website for further details on activities and events Call 01566 771930 for further details or visit www.swlakestrust.org.uk

Walking Holidays www.contours.co.uk

Self-guided walking holidays and short breaks along the coast path of Cornwall. Packages include accommodation in carefully selected hotels, inns and guesthouses, luggage transfer, guidebooks, maps and emergency support. Contours Walking Holidays E [email protected] T (017684) 80451 F (017684) 80452 From £130 for a Reef Surf School three-night short break www.reefsurfschool.com Reef Surf School operates from Reef Surfing Centre on Great Western Beach, in the heart of Wave and Rock Newquay. Facilities at the surfing centre include: beach café, with seating area overlooking the www.waveandrock.com surf, surf shop, beach and surf hire, volleyball nets and surf school.

Adventure Escapes Cornwall Specialising in • Surfing • Climbing Lessons run twice daily, 7 days a week. We teach all ages and abilities. All of our coaches are • Coasteering • Trekking & Navigation BSA Qualified and Qualified RLSS Beach Lifeguards and we are a BSA Approved Surfing Centre. Everything for all abilities from lessons to expeditions. Group discounts available.

Reef Surf School, 10 – 12 Berry Road, Newquay TR7 1AR E [email protected] M 07870 630797 E [email protected] T (01637) 879058 £25 for a 1/2 day Learn to surf & accommodation (inc) from £49 28 7,000,000,000,000,000 grains of sand... For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

7,000,000,000,000 grains of sand...

…lie on the beach at Perranporth on Cornwall’s north coast where three miles of golden sand are washed by rollers from the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching along a magnificent coastline Perranporth is just one of hundreds of magnificent beaches waiting for you to discover. Cornwall 2009 29

7,000,000,000,000 ,000 grains of sand... 30 7,000,000,000,000,000 grains of sand... For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Grab a handful of sand from one of Cornwall’s the sand and watch the clouds drift by. Along the north coast you’ll beaches and let the grains fall through your find beaches that are prefect for catching a wave. Here, great swathes of golden sand, formed from 30,000 year-old seashells, make for a fingers. As the tiny particles catch the light, brilliant day out when you want to get active. Surfing is huge in you’ll see quartz, tin, copper, tungsten and granite. Cornwall and on beaches like Polzeath and Fistral you can show off your prowess or take your first tentative dip in to those Atlantic rollers. In your hand is the very essence of Cornwall. Further down the coast the scenery changes and the white granite sands of the West roll around the tip of Cornwall.

From the 400 million-year-old sea cliffs at Millook near Bude, Some of the most dramatic seascapes can be found around this one of the world’s finest examples of chevron rock formations, part of the county. Old ruins like the evocative Botallack mine near to the multicoloured serpentine stones of the Lizard peninsula, St Just overlook an incredibly ruthless sea and at Zennor, waterfalls Cornwall is a contrasting land of surf-hungry bays, sheltering cascade over the cliffs. coves and steep crags where below, the spitting cauldron of the ocean is never silent. Cornwall does drama, it does serenity and On the more sheltered south coast of the county, estuaries and it does exhilaration, all of which you’ll discover on more than creeks meander past slate and quartz-strewn beaches revealing 300 beaches strewn around the coastline. some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll see anywhere. Here, peaceful coves in abundance are perfect for days when you want In fact, in Cornwall you are never more than 16 miles from the sea, to escape from everything. Even in the summer, the more secluded which makes almost everyone in the county a bit of a fanatic when beaches are deserted so you’ll always be able to find your own it comes to the water. For centuries fishermen and even the odd piece of perfect tranquillity. Whatever your mood, whatever the pirate have reaped the benefit of the rugged coastline which today season, the coast of Cornwall is the county’s star asset, is a haunt for people who surf, scuba dive, sail or just simply lie on unsurpassed almost anywhere else in the world. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 31

Dipping your toe… If you would like more information on Cornwall’s beaches, go to: www.visitcornwall.com or call us on 01872 322900.

Sandy paws If you are bringing your four-footed friend with you on holiday, then don’t forget to request our ‘Dogs on Beaches’ guide or you can download this by following the link on www.visitcornwall.com

Beach Safety To ensure your family’s safety on the beach, visit www.rnli.org.uk/ beachsafety for information on lifeguarded beaches in Cornwall. The RNLI have also put together key safety information including information on what the flags mean and how to identify rip currents.

In Cornwall you are never more than 16 miles from the sea, which makes almost everyone in the county a bit of a fanatic when it comes to the water. 32 7,000,000,000,000,000 grains of sand... For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

WHAT LIES BENEATH Interview with Abby Crosby – Marine Biologist

It’s blue, turquoise, brooding black; it shimmers, excites and kicks up a giant swell but what lies under the sea around Cornwall’s coastline? Don’t be surprised if you come across massive pods of dolphins, giant sunfish and sunbathing seals. Marine biologist Abby Crosby reveals what’s lurking below, and above those waves.

“The first time I ever dived off the coast here, I was blown away at how colourful everything was. With my only previous diving experiences in the tropics, I just expected to see a monotone seascape, but everywhere I looked there were huge pink sea fans, brilliantly coloured jewel anemones and acres of bright green sea grasses – some that are home to tiny seahorses.

But there’s no need to feel left out if you’re not under the water… just look out to the horizon and you might spot the awesome sight of a pod of Common dolphins bow riding and following a fishing boat back to port, sometimes the pods can number two or three hundred. Bottlenose dolphins are often seen along the south coast close to the shore in twos or threes playing in shallow water and in fact, around Falmouth Bay you can see one of the only three resident Bottlenose dolphin families in the UK. In warmer weather basking sharks the size of double-decker buses come close to land, their huge bodies making dark shadows in the water and their fins piercing the surface. Fortunately their gaping mouths only sweep up plankton so the grey seals can sunbathe safely on the rocks as they glide by. Leatherback turtles, the largest reptiles in the world, make their way up from warmer waters to feed on jellyfish around the coast and if you’re really lucky you might even get the chance to see some of the whales that visit Cornwall. So keep your eyes peeled, in Cornwall there’s always plenty to see above and below the sea!” For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 33

LONG WAY ROUND Interview with Clare Fortescue

One of the best ways to see the Cornish coast up close is to put on our doorstep in Cornwall is outstanding and it is certainly worth on your walking boots and hike along the 290-mile footpath that walking at least a section of the coast path if you have a chance”. winds its way around the county. It’s a journey that gives a real During Clare’s trek, on which she covered on average 14.5 miles insight into Cornwall’s natural diversity, ancient history and a day, she was constantly inspired by the coastal links with the past. distinctive culture and one that 26-year-old Clare Fortescue “Along the way there are so many old tin mines and fishing villages won’t forget in a hurry. which once relied on such hard and dangerous work from those who toiled deep underground and far out to sea. Somewhere In early summer last year, Clare, who works as an event manager along the way, I remember seeing a framed map of Cornwall from for the Boconnoc Estate near , took on the challenge to the 1800’s that had all the known shipwrecks around the coast raise over £10,000 for the charity Help for Heroes, an organization marked on it. This again bought home the dangers that so many that helps rehabilitate soldiers injured in action. Covering the faced and the spirit of adventure and exploration that was their distance in just over 19 days, it turned out to be tougher than she inspiration” Clare was sad when her trek ended but was elated to expected, especially the first two days trekking up and down the have discovered every corner of the Cornish coast, and says, huge cliffs between Welcombe Mouth and Boscastle on the north “The friendliness of the people I met on the journey and the coast. She says, “It was incredible to experience every corner of the warm welcome I received wherever I stayed on route will always outstanding Cornish coastline and see the diversity of wildlife, flora stay in my memory. I was just amazed by the overwhelming and dramatic geological features. The varied nature we have right kindness everyone showed me along the way” 34 Welcome home For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 35

Welcome home Breakfast on fresh eggs you’ve just collected, round up the cows for milking and check on the new lambs. Farm holidays are back in fashion, so take a look at where getting back to nature is easy without compromising your creature comforts. 36 Welcome home For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Annette Tolputt and her husband Richard run an organic beef sharing adventures. “When our guests leave, they feel as if they farm near the River Fowey and in addition to bed and breakfast have shared a part of our life” says Annette, “They go back home accommodation in their 17th century farmhouse; guests can stay in longing to tell their friends about their adventures and new experiences three superbly appointed rooms which look out over a meadow and close to nature. a small wood in the distance. Here, the location is quiet but you know behind the scenes, the daily bustle of running a farm goes on. “Many people have no connection with rural

Annette and Richard have been welcoming visitors to their home for life anymore and are fascinated by how we eight years. “Farm holidays have changed so much,” Annette reveals. make a living here” “Gone are the days of sleeping in leaky barns, cold water in the taps and traipsing through ankle-deep mud. These days we are a highly A week in the country regulated industry and the accommodation we provide in Cornwall A few miles from Annette and Richard’s farm, not far from the seaside is first class.” Annette herself holds the prestigious VisitBritain 4 star resort of Looe, Elizabeth Rowe and her husband Peter, run a cattle Silver Award. breeding farm and provide three luxurious self catering cottages set in rolling countryside. The Miles family, Jacquie and David and their two Staying on a farm also enables you to learn more about country life children Katie and Henry from Biggleswade in Bedfordshire have been and how it’s run says Richard, “Many people have no connection with staying in the 17th century Coach House at the farm. Jacquie’s diary rural life anymore and are fascinated by how we make a living here” reveals what they’ve been up to during their stay. and Annette admits, “Many kids don’t know where eggs and milk come from, so a whole new world opens up to them. They can see Saturday: This is a bit of a nostalgic trip for David. He remembers the animals from an early age and understand they are real and a staying on a farm in Cornwall when he was a child and recalls having very important part of their lives.” a wonderful time, so we especially wanted the children to experience something similar. We usually do hotels, so this is a first for us as a Getting to know your host family and fellow guests is also a special family. We arrived early evening. The journey down was easy and the part of a farm holiday. Annette has a large table in her kitchen coach house is really special, very well furnished, extremely cosy and where everyone can have breakfast together, swapping stories and sympathetically renovated with lots of room for the kids. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 37

Family Events

25 April 29 July TBC Trevithick Day, RNAS Culdrose Air Day, www.trevithick-day.org.uk www.royal-navy.mod.uk/ 1 May server/show Padstow ‘Obby ‘Oss www.padstow.com 8-15 August Henri-Lloyd Falmouth Week 8 May www.falmouthweek.co.uk Helston Flora Day www.helstonfloraday.org.uk 14-16 August (TBC) West of Steam Rally, 4-6 June St Agnes Royal Cornwall Show, www.weses.co.uk www.royalcornwallshow.org 16-22 August Fowey Regatta and 21-28 June Carnival Week , Penzance www.foweyroyalregatta.co.uk www.golowan.org “This is a bit of a nostalgic trip for November – February 17-19 July Ice Skating at the David. He remembers staying on a Whiteford Music Festival, Eden Project, St Austell farm in Cornwall when he was a child Stoke Climsland, www.edenproject.com www.whitefordfestival.co.uk and recalls having a wonderful time, so we especially wanted the children 24-26 July Boconnoc Steam Fair, to experience something similar.” Boconnoc Estate, Lostwithiel www.lsvc.org

“Woke up late, nice and relaxed. Kids made friends with Jess and Fly, the two sheepdogs”

Sunday: Woke up late, nice and relaxed. Kids made friends with Jess and Fly, the two sheepdogs. Went a few miles to the coast and stopped at Seaton beach this afternoon, a lovely, safe bay. Drove to Looe for some yummy fish and chips and then we all took a boat trip from Polperro to see basking sharks in the bay, a bit shy today and didn’t make an appearance!! However, Henry had a go on the wheel and was very proud to be in charge of the boat for a while.

Monday: Katie and Henry are fascinated by the animals on the farm and even loved watching the sheep being de-wormed this morning! Went to Padstow and hired bikes and cycled 11 miles on the Camel Trail to Wadebridge. The route is nice and flat and we were impressed by the ever-changing scenery; from the sea, then to woodland and the moor, it’s just lovely and it was so nice to do something together as a family. Popped off to look around Wadebridge, pretty town by the river with some really interesting shops. In the evening we went to the local pub near the farm. Everyone was so friendly. In the end we were chatting to the locals as if we’d known them for years.

Tuesday: Katie really likes the kittens and is eager to learn about everything. Peter has made time for the kids’ questions and I think 38 Welcome home For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

they have both been enthralled by the way of life here on the farm. Just as we set off today, we saw a hawk up close on the road… in all my life I have never seen a bird of prey like that, in a wildlife park, but never in real life. Liz suggested going to Polridmouth beach near Fowey where we had a lovely day out at, building sand castles and exploring the rock pools. Later, we all piled into the Landrover and Peter took us on safari around the farm. The views from the exhausted so it was good to get back to the farm. It’s been so nice surrounding fields we’re beautiful! staying here and as it’s a working farm, we see Peter go off to see to the livestock in the morning with the sheepdogs, something his family “We love driving through the windy lanes; have been doing for generations and there’s something strangely comforting about that! they are like a huge labyrinth and you’re not sure what you’ll find at the end!” Friday: Liz has a wealth of local knowledge which, we know, is perfect for finding out-of-the-way places so she recommended Wednesday: It feels like home from home here, but I can be totally Lanhydrock House, a grand stately home near Bodmin. I really lazy! Kids were playing in the garden with the other children who are wasn’t sure if Henry and Katie would like it but they absolutely staying here so, we set off late and decided to explore the east of the loved the over-sized pots and pans in the kitchens and the nursery county. We love driving through the windy lanes; they are like a huge rooms full of old fashioned toys. Sad to leave, but we’ve really liked labyrinth and you’re not sure what you’ll find at the end! At Whitsand the homely atmosphere here and we’ve all enjoyed discovering Bay we walked along the shore which seems to stretch for miles and Cornwall together as a family, you really appreciate how precious there was hardly anyone else there, it was just so restful. In the that is. I feel we’ve had a bit of an insight to another side of evening I bought locally produced sausages and bacon from the Cornwall, and it’s been fascinating. village shop, absolutely delicious.

Thursday: Went to Crealy Fun Park. Spent four hours there, no big “Sad to leave, but we’ve really liked the queues and the kids weren’t restricted on any rides. We all felt homely atmosphere here…” For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 39 AD0050 DestGuide.qxd 1/7/08 3:14 pm Page 1 40 Cornwall 2009 For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Monkey Sanctuary Trust www.monkeysanctuary.org Visit a unique environmental charity caring for South American primates. Talks all day long. Children’s activity room and play area. Gardens, café and shop. Free parking.

The Monkey Sanctuary, Looe PL13 1NZ E [email protected] T (01503) 262532 F (01503) 262532

zZ<>SL   The Isles of Scilly by Helicopter

Enjoy the exhilarating experience of a www.carnglaze.com 20 minute direct flight from the Penzance Heliport to either St Mary’s or Tresco  • 3 gigantic caverns • Open all year  • Group tours underground • Subterranean Lake  • 6.5 acres of Woodland Walk • Faery Dell   • Picnic Areas • Wedding Venue  • Concerts underground – classical to rock  • All weather attraction    St Neot, Liskeard PL14 6HQ E [email protected] T (01579) 320251  01736 363871 www.islesofscillyhelicopter.com    z-)xhS Days Out in Cornwall Pendennis Castle A trip to Cornwall would not be complete without visiting some of the finest castles Castle the region has to offer.

Located on Cornwall's dramatic and windswept Castle north coastline,Tintagel Castle is a place of myths where the legend of was born. Further south, discover Tintagel Launceston Castle Castle Pendennis Castle in Falmouth, one of Henry VIII's greatest coastal fortresses. Then finally, take time to explore the nearby and exquisitely pretty St Mawes Castle.

For more details call 0870 333 1181 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/cornwall ThereÕs an Eden for everyone! Whether you are 9 or 90 youÕll always Þ nd something to excite, enthral and entertain you at Eden.

My Eden, Kitchen Garden, Joan, Grandmother

My Eden, Stress free family My Eden, Den Building, time at Christmas. Emily Age six and a half Margaret, Mum

My Eden, the waterfall in My Eden, The Sessions, My Eden, The Zipwire, the Rainforest Biome. Pete, Student Dan, Age 13 Max, Age 10

As well as 35 acres of garden, an ever changing events We welcomed our ten millionth visitor last July, programme and of course the largest rainforest in captivity so come and see how weÕve grown! you can be sure every visit to Eden will be different! From stunning horticulture to exhilarating experiences like the zip wire, to world class music and art, ice rinks to den www.edenproject.com building thereÕs always something new to see. The Eden Project, Bodelva, St Austell PL24 2SG Tel. 01726 811911 Registered Charity Number: 1093070 42 Cornwall 2009 For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Make a day of it at Land’s End!

A destination with a difference. The sign of a great day out – arriving like so many generations before you at one of the world’s best loved landmarks. A place of natural beauty and stunning scenery where the might of the Atlantic meets the towering cliffs of Cornwall. With five visitor attractions, including Doctor Who Up Close, COAST exhibition and the West Country Shopping Village, there’s so much to enjoy. Open daily from 10am • Hotline 0871 720 0044 • www.landsend-landmark.co.uk

Coast is a BBC/Open University co-production. © BBC 2005-2007. Content subject to change. Enjoy a Wild Day Out in Newquay

The Ultimate Undersea Safari Enjoy close encounters with hundreds of marine creatures from seahorses and stingrays to tropical sharks and giant octopus. Don’t miss the amazing underwater tunnel display. Towan Beach, Newquay. TR7 1DU Tel: 01637 878134 | OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM

www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 43

Join us on a journey to the deep

Visitor attraction of the year* Pay once & get in FREE for a year!

Discovery Quay, Falmouth Tel 01326 313388 Open daily 10-5 www.nmmc.co.uk *Gold winner at the 2008 Cornwall Tourism Awards 44 Green and Gorgeous For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Green and Gorgeous Dick Strawbridge explains there is no getting away from it, Cornwall is absolutely gorgeous. It is well known for a plethora of different features from its stunning coastline, unspoilt villages, rugged moorlands, industrial, maritime and mining history, mild climate… the list is long but at every turn you find its people interacting with nature and the elements. Cornwall 2009 45 46 Green and Gorgeous For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

The Cornish are proud of their heritage and crossing the brings you to a county with its own language, flag, tartan and even patron saint.

It was not so long ago that a trip to Cornwall was not undertaken by the coastline, an abundant sea, and, dare I say, the ‘peninsula lightly as the road and rail links made the journey a significant mentality’ (we could very easily have an ‘island mentality’ in undertaking. That said, today, after a short flight, you can be surfing Cornwall, but there are a few miles of land where the Tamar does on the beaches of north Cornwall within a couple of hours of leaving not quite manage to cut us off from the rest of the country) your desk in London, regular intercity trains can take you into the reinforces the feeling that we have nearly everything you could heart of the county and, even the once daunting A30 is, more often possibly need to be truly sustainable. than not, a smooth drive. I realise that many people have known about the county’s charms for years and catering for visitors has “I tend to think of sustainability as living in been an invaluable source of income, however, Cornwall is now accessible and is an increasingly more popular holiday destination. harmony with our natural resources, and Having spent over 20 years in the services, were we moved regularly enjoying the produce and resources that and could easily have been described as vagrants, we ended up in we are surrounded by.” Cornwall by chance, having searched the country for nearly a year to find a smallholding near to a real village/community we found our perfect, derelict (!), farmhouse in south Cornwall. The first thing that springs to mind when considering Cornwall in terms of sustainability is the amazing connection that remains with Sustainability is a rather fashionable word and is used very freely nature and local wildlife. I defy anyone to spend time in the county nowadays. Perhaps it is the geographical uniqueness of the county and not to be in awe of nature. Everywhere you are aware of the or the strong cultural tradition and pride in local life that we have diverse range of habitats. It is not possible to travel without being been exposed to since living here, but I tend to think of sustainability mesmerised by the valleys, coastline or the moors. It takes only a tiny as living in harmony with our natural resources, and enjoying the effort to become aware of the amazing wildlife and the conservation produce and resources that we are surrounded by. Being surrounded effort that is being undertaken to ensure their future. For example, For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 47

“I defy anyone to spend time in the county and not to be in awe of nature. Everywhere you are aware of the diverse range of habitats.” the Lizard Peninsula not only hosts the rare and beautiful red legged, world it is possible to forget what is seasonal and even forget how red beaked, Choughs but you can also see Highland cattle (a very good the true flavours are. I’m not advocating denial. Cornwall can long way from Scotland!) grazing and maintaining the cliff top provide the most amazing fayre and there are many specialists who habitats, and while you are walking the coastal paths during the pride themselves in producing the highest quality. summer months it is well worth the effort to go spotting mysterious and huge Basking Sharks – once seen, never forgotten. In Cornwall we harvest from the sea but it also provides a recreational facility that, provided we respect it and look after it, It is not only nature that flourishes in the southwest. The climate should be truly sustainable, particularly with the help of groups like produces long growing seasons and an abundance of high quality Surfers Against Sewage who have been working so hard protecting local food – a subject dear to my heart! I suppose I could be local wildlife and reducing litter. Anyone visiting our sandy beaches described as a bit of a foodie, and I constantly enjoy the local, or rocky coves can very easily pass a low impact day immersed in seasonal food on offer in and around the county. Farmers form the water sports, playing or just admiring the rugged beauty of the backbone for the communities around Cornwall and there is nothing county’s coastline. It is fair to say that it is the sea that has led to I enjoy more than sitting down to a meal where all the ingredients Cornwall being a hive of tourism. In the summer months the are home-grown or local. With supermarkets offering all foods, all population swells and consequently the traffic on the roads can the year around, and by buying produce that has been ‘forced’ out be frustrating, that said, there are other lower impact and relaxing of season or picked unripe and transported half way around the transport choices people can make when visiting Cornwall. 48 Green and Gorgeous For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

The train line to the county that passes the coast through Dawlish is especially beautiful and I always make a point of finding a window seat so I can enjoy the views. Even after Plymouth, when it crosses Brunel’s bridge over the Tamar and the line goes inland, the views are spectacular and you can see some of the most beautiful valleys and rivers. Travelling by train does not need to be all about the destination and we are fortunate enough to have some lovely branch lines – how about a day out in Looe? I realise that lots of people avoid train travel as the trains do not always go exactly to your destination but its worth remembering that there are comprehensive bus services in the county and leaving your car behind completely can be liberating. No matter how you arrive here it is definitely worth thinking about travelling around by public transport and letting someone else do the driving.

Once you have settled in there are no shortage of possible days out that are sustainable or low impact. The Eden Project is a must. The iconic domes are fascinating and there is something for everyone. I’m fortunate to live within a couple of miles of the Eden Project and have visited on many occasions – it’s a great day out. One of my favourite locations to visit in Cornwall is the Gardens of Heligan. As a keen gardener I have an annual pass and visit regularly to compare my own efforts with those of the professionals. It’s fair to say that they usually win, but I don’t mind because every time I visit I learn a little more. For the more energetic there is no shortage of walks or bike rides. Even those who do not normally walk for fun will find the coastal paths absorbing. “Cornwall ticks all the boxes for being an incredibly sustainable county. The benefits for those of us who live here and for visitors alike are massive.”

In my opinion a major part of sustainability is energy. Cornwall has a rich history of alternative energy and one of my favourite spots in Cornwall is the Luxulyan valley. It is beautiful, but I really go there to admire the engineering – the aqueduct and the old water wheel are relics of eras where they may have lacked technology but definitely not vision. It needs a bit of restoration(!) but shows the scale of engineering success in the county. Throughout Cornwall the county’s rich mining history is also apparent and in many cases the workings were powered using water power so micro-generation is definitely nothing new. There are few places in the country where our own efforts of wind turbines a waterwheel and solar panels could be more at home. However, transiting the county on the bigger scale wind farms are clearly visible. I realise that people either love them or hate them but there is something majestic about the slow turning, extremely powerful blades and it is interesting that I have been told by local lorry drivers that they now choose to park up in the lay-bys along the A30 for their breaks to enjoy the spinning turbines.

Cornwall ticks all the boxes for being an incredibly sustainable county. The benefits for those of us who live here and for visitors alike are massive. There are few other places, home or abroad, where you can enjoy the same quality in fresh, local and seasonal food, appreciate the geographical beauty from coastal paths to hilltop tors, celebrate eco-tourism in all its Cornish finery and marvel at nature. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 49

Green on the screen If you would like more information on sustainable practices in Cornwall call us on 01872 322900 or go to the following websites: www.coastvisitors.co.uk www.southwestcoastpath.com www.sustrans.org.uk www.cornwalltasteofthewest.co.uk www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk www.green-business.co.uk www.icroa.org www.visitcornwall.com 50 Cultural legacy For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cultural legacy

A rich past and a contemporary vibe mix to create a unique blend of art, music and theatre inspired by Cornwall’s ancient traditions and diverse heritage. Cornwall 2009 51 52 Cultural legacy For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Wherever you go in Cornwall it’s hard not to get caught up in the action. You might find yourself dancing through the streets at midsummer, watching a performance at a theatre that uses the ocean as a backdrop or just relaxing in artistic contemplation at the scores of galleries.

Spend some time here and you’ll soon get hooked on the overriding passion shown by all of those who create and participate in a culture that is definitely and dynamically Cornish. To give you an idea, let’s hear it from just a handful of people who explain what Cornish culture means to them.

A Centuries’ Old Welcome Until Isambard Kingdom Brunel built his magnificent railway bridge across the River Tamar in 1859, the easiest and quickest way in and out of Cornwall was by sea. A fact that has shaped the destiny of the county and far from being the ‘remote’ land portrayed by romanticised writers and a prosaic media, Cornwall has always looked seaward and forged important links with the old and new worlds. As early as the fourth century BC, the Greek geographer Pytheas noted, “The inhabitants of Britain’s Land’s End, from their intercourse with foreign merchants, are civilised in their manner of life”. Painting the picture writers who have penned blockbusters such In Cornwall you’ll find a profusion of artists as ‘The Birds’, ‘Rebecca’, ‘Wind in The Nowadays the county has the and designers working with glass, textiles, Willows’ and ‘Women in Love’, so it’s not greatest concentration of working furniture and jewellery as well as with oil, surprising that major literary festivals take watercolour and clay, all capturing their place throughout the county. artists in the UK outside London. own individual take on their surroundings. Cornwall has been a natural home for The Du Maurier festival in May attracts the From trade with the ancient Mediterranean inspiration, art and ideas since the 19th crowds and celebrity guests in a weeklong to the melting pot of mariners and century so much so that nowadays the celebration of the writer’s phenomenal travellers crossing the globe that weighed county has the greatest concentration of popularity and dubbed “Glastonbury for anchor in the ports of the county, centuries working artists in the UK outside London. books”, the Port Eliot Litfest hosts cabaret of providing hospitable respite from the sea performances, film screenings, art showings has meant that Cornwall and the people A profusion of galleries means that not only to poetry slams in July. who live here have developed a distinctive can you find big names and international character. The individuality can be subtle, shows but also see work from up and Let’s go on with the show but scratch the surface and you’ll find that coming artists who come here to study, With a landscape as dramatic as Cornwall’s the Cornish have a huge pride in their the upside being you get a chance to grab and in a land dripping with legendary fables, homeland and a quietly welcoming nature yourself a piece of art from the stars of the heroic kings and gutsy damsels it’s not borne through centuries of international future. Cornwall loves words too and has surprising that in Cornwall, people like to put trade and communication. always been a source of inspiration for on a bit of a show. For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 53

A Cornish cultural perspective

We have asked a cross-section of local personalities to tell us what makes Cornwall culturally specific to them…

“Over recent years Cornwall has successfully adapted to offering visitors a multitude of events and activities throughout the year. They showcase everything that is great about the County and its culture – local art, food and drink come to mind as examples.”

James Staughton, Managing Director, St Austell Brewery

“Cornwall has a rich artistic culture grown from a strong sense of identity. The dramatic Cornish landscape and an underlying cosmopolitan vibe allows for creative energy to develop and prosper and create a stunningly profound culture, which is unique to the region and inspirational to many”

Tim Brinkman, Director, Hall For Cornwall, Truro

“The birthplaces of two of Britain’s most important hosts visiting companies and bands. The Hall It’s not surprising that in art movements – for Cornwall located in Truro, replete with four Cornwall, people like to put on Newlyn and walls and a roof, stages plays and shows on a bit of a show. St Ives – are sited the national tour circuit. Throughout the just a few miles As early as the 13th century, Cornish miracle year you can catch performances from apart. What is so plays were being performed outdoors by local groups like the Bedlam Theatre exciting is that travelling performers and that theatrical Company who stage shows around the this World-class art therefore has tradition continues today. The performance county based on local themes and direct local relevance: at Penlee House, company Wildworks, featured in a special Kneehigh Theatre, a nomadic touring Penzance, or at you can exhibition at the V&A last year, produces company and The Miracle Theatre based in see truly great works of art and rub unique landscape theatre in old quarries, Falmouth perform an eclectic mix of shoulders with descendants of artists derelict mines and working fishing quays. theatre from new works to up-to-date and models, or wander a few yards adaptations of the classics. down the road and stand precisely The , open to the elements where that artist stood – that’s with its dramatic location on the cliff edge at As early as the 13th century, wonderful!” Porthcurno, attracts local and touring Cornish miracle plays were being companies staging everything from classic Alison Bevan, Director, Shakespeare to modern musicals and drama. performed outdoors by travelling Penlee House Gallery and Museum Sterts Open-air Theatre on Bodmin Moor performers and that theatrical runs a full season of in-house shows and tradition continues today. 54 Cultural legacy For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

“The fact that the Being almost entirely surrounded Royal Naval Pilot, a pretty dour by water, competition on the sea publication at the has always been keen in Cornwall… best of times, describes Cornwall as a cross between the West Coast of Scotland and the Caribbean says a lot about our stunning County.

“We have it all down here but the cream on top has to be the people and their open friendly attitude; The Cornish still have that special welcoming something that one feels has been lost to many parts of the country.”

Pete Goss MBE Inspirational Yachtsman

A sporting life Being almost entirely surrounded by water, competition on the sea has always been keen in Cornwall. Pilot gigs, boats that were once used to guide vessels into port, now take part in races around the coast and most gig clubs, of which there are dozens, have public- friendly sessions where you’ll be welcome to jump on board and get hold of the oars.

Blinding white sails catching the sun on a summer’s morning are also one of Cornwall’s’ most breathtaking sights. Up and down the county sailing regattas are held where some of the world’s top sailors join locals in thrilling competition. Meanwhile on land, the sport of hurling which takes place in February in St Ives and St Columb, is a free for all, no rule scrum down where participants try to carry when the county’s team are playing and one in Camborne. With Cornwall’s best a silver ball over the parish boundary. get a real taste of Cornish devotion. players, combined with Internationals from all over the world, they are pushing Cornish The games origins are thought to be over “Cornwall’s passion for rugby goes back to rugby like the strong men of 1908.” 1000 years old as are the origins of Cornish 1908, when the triumphant Cornwall team wrestling (a combat sport not unlike Judo) won the County Championship, and went Rob McEvoy, Marketing Manager, demonstrations of which you can see at on to represent Great Britain in the 1908 www.cornish-pirates.com tournaments across the county. And if Olympics, winning a silver medal. Since that there’s one thing that get pulses racing in date, the county has lived for rugby, using Cornwall its Rugby. Turn up at match it as a means to demonstrate Cornish pride “Cornwall’s passion for rugby goes and togetherness. Various teams have And if there’s one thing that get back to 1908, when the triumphant enjoyed periods of supremacy in Cornwall, Cornwall team won the County pulses racing in Cornwall its Rugby. and now through the Cornish Pirates are at Turn up at match when the the forefront. The Cornish Pirates are fully Championship, and went on to county’s team are playing and get professional, pushing for entry to the represent Great Britain in the 1908 a real taste of Cornish devotion. Premiership, playing in National Division Olympics, winning a silver medal.” For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 55

Music has always been and remains today an important part of Cornish culture

The Sound Of Music For a true sense of how poignant music is singers such as Tori Amos, who has a studio “My family has farmed in Cornwall for many in Cornwall, and how the landscape and near Bude, have found a place in Cornwall generations and we have been at history of the county has shaped it, try and to be creative. Fentongollan on the banks of the beautiful catch a male voice choir singing about their Fal Estuary near Tresillian, since 1883. It is a forefathers and their mining and fishing Not surprising then that Oasis recorded mixed farm of cereals and sheep, heritage, it will give you a window to the their first album ‘Definitely Maybe’ at the specialising in daffodil bulbs and vegetable very soul of the Cornish. Music has always Sawmills studio at Golant on the Fowey plants available at the farm or by mail order. been and remains today an important part estuary and Brit Award winner James of Cornish culture and if you think Ireland Morrison started his career busking on “The unique and warm-hearted spirit of has the monopoly on foot tapping Celtic the streets of Truro and Newquay. Cornwall is something very special to all of refrains then in Cornwall you will discover us who live here, and is particularly strong over 100 traditional bands ready to in the farming, fishing and former mining introduce you to their own musical style. Oasis recorded their first communities. What really gets us going is rugby, brass bands, steam and male Crossing the bridge between the old and album ‘Definitely Maybe’ voice choirs!” new are extraordinary groups like the Jim Hosking, Managing Director, 3-piece rock band Skwardya who sing in the at the Sawmills studio at Fentongollan Farm, Tresillian and even contemporary Golant on the Fowey estuary 56 Cultural legacy For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Voices from the past “On May 1st we celebrate the coming of summer with an enthusiasm and passion “Cornwall for that is hard to equal. Drums beat alongside some means The timeline of Cornwall stretches back a piano accordions and melodeons. Flags sandy beaches, long way. Evidence of human settlement and greenery are everywhere. A sense of fishing boats and 10,000 years ago has been found on ancient ritual and respect for something ice creams.... and Bodmin Moor and throughout the county felt rather than understood is in the air. all of these things you will come across a rich array of Is it pagan? You must decide. are part of this Neolithic burial chambers, stone circles and beautiful place, Iron Age forts. Cornwall’s more recent past “The swirling black ‘osses’ with their savage however, Cornwall can be found in the evocative ruins of tin looking masks may suggest so. One dancer can also invoke thoughts of a place mines scattered across the land where once leading and ‘teasing’ the ‘oss with balletic that is living in the past, but where thousands of people toiled to make the movements. The rest following in white craft is concerned this could not be county one of the richest mining areas in with red or blue sashes according to which further from the truth. Throughout the world. Such are their cultural ‘party’ they belong to. This whole day our countryside, makers are busy importance that today these ruins are generates a very special kind of community making/designing and experimenting designated a World Heritage Site on a par spirit. The crowds who throng the streets using not only new techniques to with the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of seem to feel that too. Many are Padstow express their art, but using traditional China. Such a long history brings with it exiles keeping in touch with a custom they techniques with a twist of the new – traditions and in Cornwall in almost every or their fathers or grandfathers have from glass sculptures, brightly woven town and every village you can discover a enjoyed; link that appears to be eternally textiles, textured ceramics and mixed unique festival that connects the Cornish of unbreakable.” media jewellery, local makers are today with their rich and diverse past. The meeting the needs of the public and Helston Floral Dance in May, is held to John Buckingham, collectors alike” welcome the arrival of Spring, the Burning Padstow Museum. of the Beast, an old Celtic custom takes www.padstowmuseum.co.uk Heidi Scott, place at the end of October near Bolventor Cornwall Crafts Association and Tom Bawcock’s Eve is celebrated in Mousehole around Christmas when the “Working under ground in a Tin mine was a famous makes an appearance. job not for the faint hearted, South Crofty “Cornwall loves Mine is 500 fathoms deep (3,000 feet) itself! Sounds “There are several unique and when being lowered/ dropped in a cage down self-indulgent, the vertical shaft the change in pressure but it’s true. interesting customs in the would make your ears pop. Miners worked in People in magical Celtic land that is temperatures of over 45 degrees centigrade, Cornwall just love blasted every day and paid for the explosives Cornwall; it’s such Cornwall but here in Padstow out of their wages every fortnight. It is not a great county to we have what we believe to until you work in this kind of environment live in. If you’re that you really appreciate just how good lucky enough to have been born here be the greatest of them all. the Cornish air smells and tastes.” then you will ooze with pride at just But of course we would say being Cornish – it’s like you just Mark Kaczmarek, naturally belong. You may be a bit that wouldn’t we? 17 years a miner and not dead yet. stubborn often with an unusual slant on life, but you will have a passion for your heritage like few others. It has nothing to do with brains; it’s all about wearing your county in your heart. This is what makes Cornish culture so oddly unique and truly inspiring; I know because I live this feeling.”

Phil Ugalde, Manager Director, Proper Cornish Food Company For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 57

We are inspired by the natural beauty of the county, the climate, the light and the atmosphere and energy from the sea. Our roots are in Cornwall for these reasons.

“Although difficult to define, the ‘spirit’ of Cornwall is integral to the philosophy and success of our organic skincare company. Our products are left to mature for a lunar month, biodynamically harnessing the warmth, energy and movement of the sun and moon over Cornwall. We feel like each bottle and jar has then absorbed some of this special Cornish ‘spirit’.

“At Spiezia we have found that the spirit of this ancient land attracts many like-minded people and companies with similar values about life and the environment. This makes for great networking opportunities and entrepreneurial inspiration.”

Sally Read, Director, Spiezia Organics – Made for Life

“Cornwall… A land of ancient holy sites and vibrant pagan festivals, rugged and beautiful by turn, its people with a kind heart and an independent mind, home to male voice choirs and artists’ colonies, with a language which was almost lost and a national anthem that makes little sense, Cornwall can easily get under your skin and its spirit never leaves you”

James St Aubyn, St Michael’s Mount

For information about Theatres, Entertainment, Cultural Activities, Art Galleries, World Heritage Sites and Cornwall’s Mining Heritage sites, call us on 01872 322900 or go to www.visitcornwall.com 58 Cornwall 2009 For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 &YQFSJFODF/FXRVBZ

&YQFSJFODF XXXWJTJUOFXRVBZPSH

CORNWALL CAMPUS STUDENT

At our £100 million Cornwall Campus you'll benefit from the high- quality, research-led teaching that the university of Exeter is known for. You'll also benefit from everything Cornwall is known for! We run tours of our Cornwall Campus throughout the year, so get in touchandseeforyourselfwhysomanyofourstudentsloveithere. University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, nr Falmouth, tel: 01326 371801 email [email protected] or visit www.exeter.ac.uk/cornwall

Part-funded by the European CORNWALL CAMPUS Regional Development Fund U Q A L A I T T

A

Y C A S D 09 S U R E

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS The Cornish Cyder Farm GREATWAYSTOEXPLORE#ORNWALL Eden Project For over 30 years Cornwall Association of CATA’s website, www.cata.co.uk provides DairyLand Farm World Tourist Attractions (CATA) has been raising details of all its members, including opening Jamaica Inn awareness of the quality and value offered times and admission charges, an Events Cornwall’s Crealy Great Adventure Park by many of the leading visitor attractions Diary as well as current special offers and Future World @ Goonhilly in Cornwall. It is committed to improving discounts available. Holywell Bay Fun Park standards for Cornwall’s visitors, so each Land’s End member is subject to inspection every three We produce both the Cornwall Guide, National Maritime Museum Cornwall years - and a very high benchmark is set. which details all our quality attractions and Lappa Valley Steam Railway the Cornwall Map, which is a very useable Flambards Experience World of Model Railways Starting with just seven attractions, map for both those traveling by car or by including Flambards and Poldark Mine, the public transport. They are both available ART & HERITAGE association now boasts over 40 members FREE from our website www.cata.co.uk spanning the entire length and breadth St Austell Brewery Visitor Centre of Cornwall. Some later additions have The Courtroom Experience included Eden, Tate St.Ives and Hollywell The Minack Theatre & Visitor Centre Bay Fun Park. Poldark Mine Cornwall Porthcurno Telegraph Museum FREE Tate St Ives GUIDE Pendennis Castle to the quality attractions 09 Tintagel Castle one great guide one great holiday

wildlife INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE maritime action Bodmin & Wenford Railway places to visit beautiful gardens Geevor Tin Mine adventure cornish heritage China Clay Country Park museums & galleries

MARITIME ATTRACTIONS Charlestown Shipwreck & Heritage Centre

WILDLIFE Blue Reef Aquarium National Seal Sanctuary Paradise Park & JungleBarn Newquay Zoo

www.cata.co.uk GARDENS AND COUNTRY HOUSES Pencarrow Lanhydrock Cotehele Trelissick Glendurgan Trengwainton To receive a FREE Cornwall Map Trerice showing all the Quality Attractions visit: U Q A L Trevarno A I T T

A Y

Trebah C www.cata.co.uk A S D St Michael’s Mount S U R E email: [email protected] call: 01209 714488

CATA_Cornwall09Guide_ad-AW.indd 1 10/9/08 15:31:10 60 Celebrating excellence For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Celebrating excellence

Winner of Winners Global Boarders www.globalboarders.com Cornwall 2009 61

Cornwall Tourism Award Winners 2008

Guest House / B&B Anchorage House, Boscundle www.anchoragehouse.co.uk Anchorage House Planters Café, Trebah Café Planters Café, Trebah Garden, Nr Falmouth www.trebah-garden.co.uk

Holiday Parks Polmanter Touring Park, St Ives www.polmanter.co.uk

Small Hotels The Old Quay House, Fowey Polmanter Touring Park The Old Quay House www.theoldquayhouse.com Sustainability Bedruthan Steps Hotel, Mawgan Porth www.bedruthan.com

Tourist Information Centre Bude Tourist Information Centre www.visitbude.info

Large Hotels Bude Tourist Bedruthan Steps Hotel, Mawgan Porth Bedruthan Steps Hotel Information Centre www.bedruthan.com

Restaurants The Bay Restaurant, Penzance www.bay-penzance.co.uk

Self-catering Helsbury Park, Nr www.helsburypark.co.uk

Pubs Victoria Inn, Perranuthnoe The Bay Restaurant Helsbury Park www.victoriainn-penzance.co.uk

Outstanding Customer Service Wendy Redford-James – Mother Ivey’s Bay Caravan Park www.motheriveysbay.com

Leisure Experience Global Boarders, www.globalboarders.com

Small Visitor Attraction Victoria Inn Classic Cottages Camel Valley Vineyard, Bodmin www.camelvalley.com Camel Valley Vineyard NMMC Large Visitor Attraction National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Falmouth www.nmmc.co.uk

Website Classic Cottages, Helston www.classic.co.uk

Outstanding Service to Tourism Major Hibbert, Trebah Garden 62 Cornwall 2009 For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Useful contacts

We know that planning Bodmin Shire Hall, Mount Tel: 01208 76616 is an important part of Folly, Email: [email protected] Bodmin PL31 2DQ Web: www.bodminlive.com your holiday, so log onto www.visitcornwall.com for Boscastle The Harbour, Tel: 01840 250010 Visitor Centre Boscastle PL35 0HD Email: [email protected] suggestions on activities, Web: www.visitboscastleandtintagel.com events, places to visit and Bude The Crescent Car Tel: 01288 354240 accommodation (including Park, Email: [email protected] late availability and special Bude EX23 8LE Web: www.visitbude.info offers) to make your Camelford* North Cornwall Tel: 01840 212954 Museum, The Clease, Email: [email protected] holiday a memorable one. Camelford PL32 9PL Web: www.visitcamelford.co.uk

Falmouth 11 Market Strand, Tel: 01326 312300 Prince of Wales Pier, Email: [email protected] Falmouth TR11 3DF Web: www.acornishriver.co.uk

Fowey 5 South Street, Tel: 01726 833616 PL23 1AR Email: [email protected] Web: www.fowey.co.uk

Hayle* Hayle Library, Tel: 01736 754399 Commercial Road, Email: [email protected] Hayle, TR27 4DE

Launceston Market House Arcade, Tel: 01566 772321 Market Street, Email: [email protected] Launceston PL15 8EP Web: www.visitlaunceston.co.uk

Liskeard Foresters Hall, Tel: 01579 349148 Pike Street, Email: [email protected] Liskeard PL14 3JE Web: www.liskeard.gov.uk

Looe* The Guildhall, Tel: 01503 262072 Fore Street, Email: [email protected] East Looe PL13 1AA Web: www.visit-southeastcornwall.co.uk VisitCornwall VisitCornwall can assist you with Padstow (inc. Red Brick Building, Tel: 01841 533449 every aspect of your visit to Cornwall. Wadebridge & North Quay, Padstow Email: [email protected] For brochures, information and advice, surrounding areas) PL28 8AF Web: www.padstowlive.com call our helpful staff on 01872 322900. Penzance Station Approach, Tel: 01736 362207 Penzance TR18 2NF Email: pztic@.gov.uk Web: www.visit-westcornwall.com

Redruth* The Cornwall Centre, Tel: 01209 219048 Alma Place, Email: [email protected] Redruth TR15 2AT Web: www.cornwall.gov.uk/cornwallcentre

St Ives The Guildhall, Tel: 01736 796297 You can also contact the helpful staff Street an Pol, Email: [email protected] at these Tourist Information Centres St Ives TR26 2DS Web: www.visit-westcornwall.com for more detailed information within St Mawes The Roseland Visitor Tel: 01326 270440 the areas they cover. Centre, The Email: [email protected] Millennium Rooms, Web: www.roselandinfo.com The Square, St Mawes TR2 5AG Information for Disabled Visitors. If you are planning a trip to Cornwall, Tintagel Bossiney Road, Tel: 01840 779084 Visitor Centre Tintagel PL34 0AJ Email: [email protected] we can help with accommodation Web: www.visitboscastleandtintagel.com suggestions, venues to visit and travel plans. Log onto: Truro Municipal Buildings, Tel: 01872 274555 Boscawen Street, Email: [email protected] www.visitcornwall.com/site/visitor- Truro TR1 2NE Web: www.truro.gov.uk information/accessible-cornwall

*Seasonal opening For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900 Cornwall 2009 63

Other useful guides on Cornwall Newquay Tel: 01872 322900 Web: www.visitnewquay.org

Gardens of Cornwall map inside 08 Cornwall Gardens Map St Austell By Pass Service Station, Cornwall Southbourne Road, PL25 4RS gardens guide The Cornwall Gardens Map is full of Tel: 01726 879500 information to help you plan your Email: [email protected] garden visits. For a copy of this guide Web: www.cornish-riviera.co.uk please call 01872 322900 or visit www.gardensofcornwall.com St Just The Library, Market Street, TR19 7HX www.gardensofcornwall.com Tel: 01736 788165 Email: [email protected] www.visitcornwall.com FREE GUIDE Cornwall Visitor Guide Cornwall Visitor Web: www.visit-westcornwall.com Guide for for Dog Owners Dog Owners Exploring Cornwall with your four-legged Lostwithiel Lostwithiel Community Centre, friend, then this guide is a must for you. Liddicoat Road, PL22 0HE Tel: 01208 872207 Call 01872 322900 for your copy or visit www.visitcornwall.com Mevagissey St Georges Square, PL26 6UB Tel: 01726 844857

Perranporth 8 Tywarnhayle Square, TR6 0ER Tel: 01872 575254 Days Out in West Cornwall For a wide range of information St Agnes 5 Churchtown, TR5 0QW and Days out suggestions in West Tel: 01872 554150 Cornwall look out for the following guide or download from www.visit-westcornwall.com

South East Cornwall Holiday Map & Beach Guide So much to see and do – over 40 attractions and activities in South East Cornwall and Bodmin Moor. Copies available from local Tourist Information Centres or call 01579 341032 Email [email protected]

$ISCOVER&ALMOUTH Discover Falmouth !CCOMMODATION'UIDE The official visitor guide to the town including accommodation, attractions and events. Available from 01326 312300 or visit www.discoverfalmouth.co.uk

WWWDISCOVERFALMOUTHCOUK

[ FREE] Coast Lines – your North Cornwall COAST LINES & Countryside News 2008 holiday information guide VisitCornwall Accommodation Guide With information on beaches, walks, The VisitCornwall Accommodation Guide is your guide events, activities & much more to help to where to stay in Cornwall. We have hundreds of graded 1988 - 2008 20 Years of Coast Lines you plan your holiday in North Cornwall. and inspected establishments for you to choose from, Pick up a copy in any North Cornwall whatever your budget. Choose from hotels, B&B’s, guest Tourist Information Centre or houses, environmentally friendly holidays, self-catering call 01840 250010 or visit properties or caravan, camping or holiday parks, we have www.visitboscastleandtintagel.com something to suit your needs. To request your copy just call us on 01872 322900 or visit www.visitcornwall.com. 64 Cornwall 2009 For more information visit www.visitcornwall.com or call 01872 322900

Getting here

By road The M4, M5 and M6 motorways have made travel to Cornwall simple Air Southwest – Cornwall’s own low-fare airline, with more flights to and straightforward, while within Cornwall itself, the two major Newquay Cornwall Airport than any other airline. Year-round flights holiday routes, the A30 and A38 continue to improve, with fast dual to Newquay from London Gatwick, Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, carriageways as far as Carland Cross, Mitchell, and most of the way Newcastle, Cork, Dublin and Bristol. Also flights to Plymouth from to Penzance. Follow the M5 to Exeter, after which you will take either cities throughout England, Scotland, Ireland and the Channel Islands. the A30 or A38 into Cornwall, depending on your final destination. Fares from £29 including taxes. Alternatively, if you enter Cornwall via North Devon, then there is the www.airsouthwest.com or 0870 241 8202. Atlantic Highway, the A39, which you can join at junction 27 on the M5. BMI Baby flies to Newquay from Manchester. Book now at www.bmibaby.com or 0871 224 0224. By rail Lufthansa offers flights to Newquay from Düsseldorf. Cornwall has main line stations at , St Germans, Menheniot, For further information or to book go to Liskeard, Bodmin, Lostwithiel, Par, St Austell, Truro, Redruth, Camborne, www.lufthansa.com or 0871 945 9747. Hayle, St Erth and Penzance. There are also branch lines to Gunnislake, Ryanair, Europe’s no. 1 low fares airline, is pleased to offer Looe, Newquay, Falmouth, St Ives and ‘bus branchlines’ to The Eden passengers flights between London Stansted and Newquay Project from St Austell Station and Helston from Redruth Station. For Cornwall Airport along with two new destinations, Alicante and National Rail Enquiries – train times and information 08457 48 49 50. Barcelona. For further details contact Ryanair on 0871 246 0000 or visit www.ryanair.com for all our lowest fares. By coach Flybe, the South West’s original low fares airline, flies to National Express operate coach services from all over the UK Newquay from Belfast City, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, to numerous Cornish towns including St Austell, Truro, Newquay, Isle of Man, Jersey and Geneva. Falmouth, St Ives and Penzance. Services from London and Heathrow Book now at www.flybe.com or 0871 522 6100. Airport run throughout the day. All seats can be reserved. For tickets and information please visit www.nationalexpress.com or call British International (helicopters) operates the only two-destination 08717 818181*. Public transport information for the County can air service to the Isles of Scilly. Flights, which are only a 20-minute be obtained from Traveline by calling 0871 200 2233 or log on to duration, operate from Penzance Heliport to St Mary’s and Tresco www.traveline.info. Public transport timetables can be ordered daily (except Sundays). Contact British International 01736 363871 from the Passenger Transport Unit, by calling or www.islesofscillyhelicopter.com. 01872 222003 or log on to www.cornwall.gov.uk. *£1 booking fee applies. Maximum call cost 7.91p per minute Skybus operates the Isles of Scilly service Monday to Saturday, six days for BT customers. Mobile and other networks may vary. a week from Southampton, Bristol, Exeter (main season) Newquay and Land’s End (all year round). Day trips to the islands are also available By air from Land’s End and Newquay Cornwall Airports (reduced rates for A range of airlines serve Newquay Cornwall Airport year children). Please check the website or call for details and special offers. round and new routes are constantly being added. For a real www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk or 0845 710 5555 for Isles of Scilly. alternative to the long and frustrating journey by land visit Skybus also operate two other routes from Newquay Cornwall Airport, www.newquaycornwallairport.com to check the latest providing direct routes into Cardiff (Wales) and St. Brieuc (France). destinations served to and from Newquay. www.skybus.co.uk or 01736 334224 for Cardiff and St Brieuc.

Whilst every effort has been made to This guide has been published using Photography ensure the accuracy of this guide, paper from sustainable forests. Front cover: Cornish Picture Library VisitCornwall can accept no liability for Inside front cover: Britain on View errors, omissions or any inconvenience Published by VisitCornwall arising therefrom. Readers are advised A division of Cornwall Enterprise – on behalf Editorial photography to check all prices when enquiring for of Cornwall Destination Management. Nick Bailey, Ben Ellis, Julia Chalmers, Ingrid King, accommodation, as prices may vary from Email. [email protected] Rebecca Bernstein, David Chapman, Sophia Milligan, those quoted in the advertisements. © Cornwall Enterprise All rights reserved. Vince Bevan, Mark Lloyd, Rob Jewell, David Griffin, Steve Tanner, Mark Bowman, Ben Rowe, James Design Gendall. www.gendall.co.uk Strawbridge, Eden Project (Apex Photography), Copywriting Richard Barbary Headland Hotel, Cornish Pirates, Cornwall Arts Print St Ives Web Ltd Marketing, The Seafood Restaurant, www.beachfeature.com, www.britainonview.com, www.cornwalls.co.uk, www.cornwall365.co.uk

www.visitcornwall.com 2009 Destination Guide Cornwall is often described as the ‘garden capital of the world’… Cornwall

Gardens of Cornwall map inside 08 …as the lush vegetation and colour give garden Cornwall gardens guide lover’s a feast for the eyes all year round. Whether you are a serious horticulturalist, specialist gardener or enthusiastic amateur, Cornwall’s magnificent gardens can show you everything from wild woodland to neatly manicured lawns, the small and unusual, to the large and famous whose plants, flowers, palms and trees thrive in Cornwall’s mild coastal climate.

To request a copy of the latest Cornwall Gardens guide call 01872 322900

www.gardensofcornwall.com Visit us at www.gardensofcornwall.com