Cornwall

Charming UK town used for Harry Potter filming with cobbled streets and quirky shops

A charming UK town has been transformed into the Wizarding World as a location for the new Harry Potter TV series on HBO and it needs to be on your staycation radar

Harry Potter fans around the world are waiting for the arrival of the 2027 HBO TV series. With a whole new cast and reportedly some big changes from the movies, it’s set to be a huge TV event.

Once released, one local town is likely to become a must-visit destination for Potterheads, in the same way Kings Cross Station’s Platform 3/4 and Alnwick Castle are now. So, if you’re a die-hard fan, it might be worth making a trip before the crowds descend.

Looe in Cornwall is no stranger to film crews. Fans of the BBC series Beyond Paradise will recognise many of the filming locations including The Looe Guildhall which was used as the local police station, and Looe Bridge.

Recently, celebrities including John Lithgow, who’ll be playing Dumbledore, were spotted locally filming scenes for the show.

Looe already has a must-visit attraction for Potter fans, a quirky-themed shop called Henrietta Pyewacket, which is full of merchandise from the Wizarding World. It’s just one of the charming independent stores you’ll find in the town, with narrow streets that slope gently down towards the coast. Wander around the cobbled roads and find souvenir shops, boutiques, and historic pubs.

Looe Beach sits in a sandy cove, with shallow spots for swimming. It’s often busy in the summer months, with surfers and windsailing on the water. If you’d like a quieter spot, head to the rocky cove of Talland Bay, which is set in an Area of Outstanding Beauty. While rocky, there are spots for swimming, but look out for flags. It’s also a great spot for a brisk coastal walk, followed by a cup of tea in the beach cafe.

According to Cornwall Live, there are two other spots where film crews have been seen in the county. The small fishing village of Cadgwith Cove, which sits on the Lizard peninsula, has also become a location for the Harry Potter TV show.

Cadgwith Cove has a traditional Cornish vibe, with small fishing boats on the beach bringing in local crabs, which you can sample in one of the small beachfront cafes. There’s also shingle beach which is popular for swimming and snorkelling, and you’ll often see kids with nets exploring the rock pools. This cute village has lots of cosy cottages and is the perfect place to escape the crowds in high season.

Kynance Cove has also been used for filming the show, and this spectacular beach is famous for having white sands and turquoise seas that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean. Actor John Lithgow was recently spotted walking on the beach in his Dumbledore robes as he filmed a scene. The National Trust-run area also has beautiful rock stacks and clifftop walks, as well as sea caves that can be explored at low tide. Visitors should be cautious about entering the caves, as a sudden high tide can cut you off. Be sure to find out the tide times and follow any warning signs.

And if visiting the filming locations wasn’t enough, Harry Potter fans can even stay in a themed AirBnb. The Wizards Cauldron in Lewannick is a cosy cabin that has been decked in Potter decor, with one reviewer saying: “If you’re a Harry Potter fan this is a must try because the attention to detail is incredible”. It’s the perfect spot to watch the movies after a day of exploring Cornwall’s Harry Potter locations.

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Visit the gorgeous locations where BBC’s ‘masterpiece’ series Poldark was filmed

Explore amazing Cornish landscapes where you can walk in the footsteps of Poldark’s Ross and Demelza this autumn — and stay at a huge historic country house where the drama was filmed

The period drama Poldark, which aired on the BBC from 2015 to 2019, captivated us with its stunning locations and compelling storyline, and the series, which starred Aidan Turner as Ross Poldark, was watched by eight million viewers per episode.

One of the highlights of the show was the breath-taking filming locations, and now, the National Trust is inviting fans to explore these sites this autumn and winter, as Cornwall celebrates a special Poldark anniversary.

Next year (2026) will mark 80 years since the publication of the first original Poldark novel, Demelza, which continues to enchant readers to this day.

The first TV adaptation of Winston Graham’s novels aired 50 years ago, running from 1975 until 1977, and it’s been 10 years since the acclaimed remake graced our screens in 2015, reports Cornwall Live.

One review of the 2015 series sums up the enthusiasm people had for Poldark: “This is the most artistic, photogenic, captivating series ever made. Besides an outstanding, lovely cast, the excellent performance by the lighting men, cameramen, director, scenery experts, colour specialists, costume creators, music score, and quality scriptwriters is beyond all expectations.

“Their outstanding teamwork often makes me freeze the image in order to better appreciate the beauty and magic of the shots: outside and inside. Breathtaking scenery and, extremely cosy, authentic cottages, and overwhelming, rich mansions—even the flower bouquets—are mind-blowing.

“So grateful to the whole crew, they made a genuine masterpiece. A treasure to cherish forever!”

The show’s spectacular filming locations span from the wild Tin Coast and vast sandy shores to the “ancient and atmospheric” Godolphin estate, which served as Trenwith in the 1975 Poldark series.

These breathtaking spots have attracted devoted fans from across the globe. The medieval gardens and historic house at Godolphin represent just one of the numerous National Trust sites that played a crucial role in bringing the Poldark tale to life.

The enduring phenomenon of “Poldark tourism” continues to fund essential conservation efforts throughout Cornwall, and visitor numbers have played a vital role in safeguarding threatened wildlife and habitats across the county.

Autumn presents an ideal opportunity to explore the striking landscapes that sparked the beloved saga. The cooler months offer a wonderful opportunity to explore Poldark country, as visitor numbers remain lower than during the summer peak, allowing you to truly savour the tranquillity that Cornwall provides.

Since its first appearance in 1946, Winston Graham’s “love letter to Cornwall”, the Poldark saga, has won hearts across the globe, whisking readers and viewers away to 18th-century Cornwall.

The dramatic vistas of mining heritage locations and rugged coastal cliffs took centre stage in the narrative when the original television adaptation was broadcast in 1975, and once more in 2015 when the reimagined series introduced an entirely new generation to Ross and Demelza’s Cornwall.

Poldark transformed into a worldwide phenomenon, motivating thousands to journey to Cornwall and discover the scenery they had witnessed on their screens.

By 2019, approximately 14% of Cornwall’s visitors were believed to have made the trip in some capacity due to Poldark, and this enthusiasm delivered a tourism windfall to the county whilst raising crucial funds for the conservation and maintenance of Cornwall’s natural and historic locations.

A significant portion of this support has been reinvested into preserving these remarkable landscapes for generations to come, with efforts along the Tin Coast concentrating on protecting natural areas and wildlife habitats. At West Wheal Owles, better known to Poldark fans as Wheal Leisure, conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the endangered Cornish choughs.

This area is now off-limits to the public, creating a safe haven for this iconic bird species.

For those who are fans of the 1975 TV series of Poldark, Godolphin will be familiar as it was the home of Francis Poldark and the fictional grand house, Trenwith.

Back when Godolphin was still a private residence, it served as a filming location. The National Trust bought the estate in 2007 and began extensive and careful conservation work to preserve the house for future generations.

In 2006, Godolphin was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Since then, the estate has become renowned for its historic gardens and 500 acres of protected parkland — and the house is available as a holiday let for most of the year.

Autumn is the ideal time to explore Poldark country with its quieter paths, sweeping sea views, and a feeling of stepping back into history.

From rugged clifftop walks and mining heritage trails to exploring historic houses and gardens, Cornwall’s National Trust sites offer visitors a chance to experience the landscape that inspired a legend.

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‘I stayed in UK’s most haunted hotel – there was unexplainable noise in dead of night’

Would you dare to the stay the night in Cornwall in what is said to be one of the most haunted hotels in the UK? Well – one woman did, and it inspired her murder mystery novel

Perched on Bodmin Moor in Cornwall, this hotel is renowned for its eerie tales and rich history, tracing back to the 1750s.

As we’re in the midst of the spooky season, there’s nothing quite as chilling as spending a night in a hotel reputed to be one of the most haunted in the UK. The Jamaica Inn, an old coaching inn with a dark past believed to involve smuggling and ghostly stories, is famous for its spine-tingling reputation.

Originally built in 1750 as a coaching stop, the hotel now serves as a pub, restaurant and hotel, with a dedicated area for learning about the alleged spectral encounters. The Grade II-listed building exudes charm – and fear – with its traditional oak beams and snug rooms.

However, before it became a popular spot for food and overnight stays, it was infamous as a hub for the Cornwall smuggling trade. Its isolated location on the moors made it notorious for smugglers transporting goods like tea, brandy and silks from the sea, hidden beneath the floors and panels.

The isolation of the Jamaica Inn was its greatest asset in those days, often frequented by mysterious figures under dimly lit lanterns. Despite its modern touches, it was creepy enough for English author Daphne du Maurier to base her entire murder mystery novel on her stay there in 1936.

Taking its name from the precise spot where it stands, Jamaica Inn became a literary sensation amongst readers and was subsequently transformed into a film under Alfred Hitchcock’s direction.

The movie marked the final British production he would helm before departing for Hollywood, where he would establish himself as one of cinema’s legendary figures, earning up to six Oscar victories.

Thus, despite its shadowy and occasionally unlawful past, the inn achieved immortality through du Maurier’s fictional masterpiece, as she found herself captivated by the brooding heritage and spooky presence of the establishment and its bleak landscape.

Today in the 20th century, Jamaica Inn has evolved into something of a regional icon, where visitors pause to rest and discover its enduring legacy. One guest posted on TripAdvisor: “Had a thoroughly enjoyable two-night stay.

“The views from the inn were amazing onto the moor. The atmosphere was as expected from an old smugglers’ inn, full of mystery and intrigue!”.

Another visitor, eager to witness a supernatural encounter or sense the presence of the smugglers who once trod these very boards, recounted their spine-chilling experience.

They wrote: “We had done some research before arriving and saw that some rooms in the new, and many rooms in the original, areas have had activity from the paranormal…”

They shared tales about their terrifying night’s sleep – or their lack of. “Within a few minutes I was in the bathroom getting ready for a shower and heard a very loud male whistle from inside the room (corner nearest the bedroom). When asking my partner if she had whistled and getting a response of ‘absolutely NO’ I suddenly felt on edge.”

It’s no mystery that whilst the hotel has been transformed into a contemporary cosy pub and inn popular with travellers, its spine-chilling past is renowned for good reason. Whilst many other guests claim to have never experienced anything of the sort, others can’t help but let their minds wander.

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We cycled 2,000 miles from Cornwall to Portugal – with surfboards in tow | Cycling holidays

When I wheeled my bike off the ferry at Roscoff, northwest France, in the summer of 2024, the furthest I had ever ridden was the 99-mile Devon Coast to Coast route over two days. And yet here I was, about to embark on an epic journey, unsupported, towing a trailer with two wooden surfboards, a tent and wetsuits strapped to it. My wife, Lizzy, 62, and I had rented out our house and lent our campervan to friends, so there was no turning back.

Lizzy was also towing a trailer with two belly boards and the rest of our camping kit. She, the veteran of many long rides in her 20s – one of which took her across the Andes – was full of quiet confidence. I was excited beyond words to be setting off on a new adventure, but also terrified of what the road might reveal about me. I had no idea whether my 57-year-old body or soul could cope with cycling for days on end, climbing mountains or setting up a tent every night for three months. My first attempt at a mountain pass, in the Pyrenees some years before, hadn’t started well. I threw a hissy fit at the first hairpin, demanding of Lizzy: what’s the point?

As our route out of Roscoff took us down a narrow, overgrown track with brambles brushing our legs and panniers, I started to wonder what we had got ourselves into. Would we have to ride on paths like this all the way? What were we thinking?

The plan was to cycle from home in Cornwall to Cape St Vincent in Portugal, Europe’s most south-westerly point, surfing as we went. The journey, I reckoned, would be at least 1,900 miles (over 3,000km). I had travelled to surf in Europe many times before, but only in a campervan and, in my late teens and 20s, a series of clapped-out cars.

My friends and I went to Europe to surf, drink cheap red wine, smoke Gauloises and live out our Californian Beach Boys fantasies. We were following in the footsteps of those who had made the trip in the 1960s and 1970s, leaving the UK to surf in the sun on world-class waves. In time, the journey became a rite of passage for all surfers: get beaten up in the powerful French shore breaks, find new waves in northern Spain and lose yourself on the wild coasts of Portugal.

The prospect of doing it all again, but this time on two wheels, thrilled me. I had become disillusioned with travelling by van and needed time out. I loved the idea of chasing waves without the faff and environmental impact of van life and wondered if living with less would make me happier. Would stripping back to basics – a surfboard, a wetsuit, a tent, a meths cooker and a change of clothes – make for a bigger, more meaningful adventure?

Martin and Lizzy took the ferry to Roscoff, Brittany. Photograph: Eyewave/Getty Images

Travelling by bike, I argued while planning this trip, would allow us to follow the old roads and forgotten paths our surfing forefathers had travelled and give us the kind of access to beaches that is impossible today.

Eventually the bumpy lanes outside Roscoff gave way to smooth, flowing tarmac, following the course of a muddy river, and we cruised along easily, our trailers rumbling happily behind us. Dare I hope it would all be fine?

The truth was, at that point, I doubted I was up to the adventure. In 2023 I had severed my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), an injury that left me in a knee brace and on crutches for weeks. In the early days of recovery, I feared I’d never surf again.

The NHS consultant told me “most people your age manage perfectly well without an ACL”. I felt the sharp sting of ageism. But I wasn’t ready to be written off just yet. I had the ligament repaired privately and, when the surgeon recommended cycling for rehab, I took him at his word.

Riding ebikes made the trip possible. The psychological effect of knowing I had a little in the tank if things got difficult worked wonders, even if we rode in the mode that delivered the least power most of the time.

We followed La Vélodyssée, an 800-mile, mostly off-road cycle route down the west coast of France to Hendaye on the border with Spain, joining the Nantes-Brest canal for the first 190 miles. The riding was mostly flat and we bimbled along happily. I loved the attention we got: I guess there weren’t many middle-aged cyclists pulling surfboards along the towpath.

Seignosse in the far south-west of France was the location for the first proper surfing on the trip. Photograph: Dpa Picture Alliance/Alamy

At about 6pm each day – after about five hours in the saddle – we’d stop at a campsite, cook and collapse on to our blow-up beds. We’d prebooked some sites but mostly took our chances that something would turn up. On the one occasion it didn’t, we checked in to a hotel. Clean white sheets – heaven!

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Despite daily drenchings from rain showers, I loved being self-sufficient and outside all day. When we finally found some good waves, at Seignosse, a little north of surfing’s spiritual European home, Biarritz, hitting them was all the more satisfying.

Spain, and her terrible hills, gave us a shock after the level paths through France’s maritime pine forest. Just after crossing the border we climbed Jaizkibel mountain in rain and fog. It was a 5-mile slog from sea level to 450 metres, en route to San Sebastián. I resisted the urge to press the ebike’s power button despite it being a “classic climb” that has been featured in the Tour de France and Spain’s equivalent, La Vuelta.

When I reached the top, I was wet, cold and exhausted – but elated. If it hadn’t been so misty, I could have looked back at France behind me and seen how far we had come. We had ridden 870 miles since leaving home and I had loved it. I had surfed some excellent waves too, at Biarritz and Hendaye, as well as Seignosse, and had got my mojo back after months out of the water. I decided it was just like riding a bike: you never forget how to do it. I was definitely ready for the more serious Iberian waves to come.

Martin celebrates conquering a 600-metre mountain in Galicia. Photograph: Martin Dorey

After Jaizkibel, my legs were tuned up and I was starting to relish this life-affirming trip that would see us follow the coasts of Spain and Portugal for another 1,200 miles over the next two months. We surfed some hallowed spots at Mundaka, Peniche and the World Surfing Reserve at Ericeira; mended multiple punctures; pitched our tent 67 times; climbed another 20,000 metres; and completed two legs of the Camino de Santiago. Arriving in Praza do Obradoiro, the main square in Santiago de Compostela old town, was a highlight. But we still had another 500 miles to go to our final destination of Sagres in the Algarve.

I may not be as fit as I was in my 20s – but the thrill of adventure remains the same.

Martin Dorey’s book about the adventure, The Way of the Waves, is published by Bloomsbury Sport (£20) on 11 September. To support the Guardian order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply

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Stunning ‘cosy’ village with ‘most gorgeous’ beach and UK’s best pub

From its picturesque beaches to its vibrant community, there’s something for everyone in this charming Cornwall village

Nestled in a pristine corner of the north Cornish coast, St Agnes is a hidden treasure that proudly resides within both a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a World Heritage Site.

This coastal hamlet thrives on its vibrant local community, which supports a plethora of independent shops and businesses. With its beautiful, dog-friendly beaches, top-notch pubs and restaurants, and access to some of Cornwall’s most stunning coastal paths and walks, it’s no wonder it’s hailed as a traveller’s paradise.

St Agnes, a charming seaside village situated on the north coast of Cornwall, offers several scenic beaches for travellers to discover including Trevaunance Cove, Chapel Porth, and Porthtowan, all incredibly popular spots for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.

The area is steeped in nearly a century of Cornish industrial history, encapsulated in sites like the disused 19th-century tin mine Wheal Coates. The beauty and rich history of St Agnes have caught the attention of the United Nations, earning it UNESCO World Heritage Site status and impressing thousands of visitors.

Despite being one of the largest coastal villages in Cornwall, St Agnes maintains a compact charm. One of its most notable landmarks is St Agnes Beacon, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and historically serving as a lookout point, reports Cornwall Live.

St Agnes, a quaint seaside village often dubbed as an underappreciated gem by travellers, boasts breathtaking coastal views complete with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and idyllic countryside panoramas. It’s also the proud home of The Peterville Inn, previously crowned the UK’s best pub by the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

The village is steeped in a rich history of tin and copper mining, which was a major industry in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, remnants of this mining heritage, such as engine houses and mine shafts, still pepper the landscape.

This charming seaside town, with its labyrinth of lanes and delightful shops, is a paradise for holidaymakers. Its narrow streets brimming with Cornish charm make St Agnes a top pick among tourists.

Chapel Porth Beach is a must-see attraction, and the Chapel Porth Beach Café, renowned for its hedgehog ice creams made from cones, clotted cream and hazelnuts, comes highly recommended by visitors.

Other attractions in and around St Agnes include the St Agnes Museum, Perranporth Airfield, the Chapel Porth to St Agnes Circular Walk, and the St Agnes to Trevellas Porth Circular Walk.

St Agnes is also famed for its lively community of local artisans, shops, and eateries that offer a taste of Cornwall’s unique culture and culinary delights.

The television connection

St Agnes Head, a scenic spot on the Cornwall coastline, features a beach tucked within a cove which is accessible via a coastal path.

Fans of the dashing Ross Poldark will be thrilled to know that Winston Graham, the mastermind behind the Poldark series, lived just a stone’s throw away and drew inspiration from the entire Parish for his novels, affectionately naming it ‘Poldark Country’.

This Cornish gem, under the care of the National Trust, has gained global fame due to its association with the beloved British telly series and has been hailed as one of the most breathtaking spots on the planet.

The site is instantly recognisable, with its chapel rising majestically amidst swathes of heather and gorse, serving as the perfect backdrop for the BBC’s smash hit TV series Poldark.

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‘Spectacular’ UK hidden gem is a ‘bucket list must-see’ with ‘wonderful views’

According to visitors, the ‘hidden gem’ is “pure magic” and has “stunning views”

A “hidden gem” in the UK has been hailed as a “bucket list must-see” by visitors. Nestled in Porthcurno, Cornwall, the tranquil spot is celebrated for its ‘stunning views.’

The Minack Theatre, perched on the cliffs of South-West Cornwall, hosts live performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, opera, music and children’s events. While the theatre may look as if it’s been here forever, it’s actually less than a hundred years old.

The theatre, built by Rowena Cade, has been labelled “pure magic” and “breathtaking” by visitors. While it’s a well-known treasure among locals, the Minack Theatre offers a serene escape for those from further afield.

The TikTok account @ukhiddengems posted a video highlighting the beauty of the theatre. The caption read: “Did you know about this place in England?”

In the clip, they said: “There’s a theatre in England built into the edge of a cliff and when the tide comes in, the ocean becomes the stage. It looks ancient like something the Romans might have left behind, but it was actually built less than a century ago, almost entirely by one woman.

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“In the 1930s Rowena Cade carved this open-air theatre into the granite cliffs with her own hands, hauling stone and sand from the beach below. Today, it’s one of the most spectacular performance spaces in the world; a full working theatre with the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop.

“You can sit on stone seats cut from the rock, watch waves crash beneath the stage and see plays under open skies, with gulls flying overhead. At sunset, when the light turns gold across the sea, it’s pure magic.”

TripAdvisor reviewers have also been praising the theatre, which has racked up an impressive 4.7 star rating. Among them, one person said: “Wow what a place! Little gem hidden away in Cornwall. Well worth going to take a look and take in the views. There was also a performance from a band with instramental which we sat and watched for a while. The views are unbelievable here!!”

A second wrote: “Stunning views, gardens and hospitality and entrance fee good value. Loved the effort made to tell the story and it made my trip to Cornwall.” A third review read: “Utterly breathtaking. We went on March 20th as part of a bucket list and we were not disappointed. Reading the astonishing history of this special place was in itself incredible. Seeing it in real life was amazing, we have vowed to book tickets for a performance.”

Another said: “What a beautiful place to visit! The views are breathtaking and can make some beautiful photos. I love the history of this and learning a wonderful women and her gardeners built this beautiful place when it was just a patch of grass, it’s crazy as it looks like it could be built by the Romans!”

The praise continued, with one person writing: “A truly incredible and beautiful place. All the passion and hard work by Rowena Cade and all those who worked alongside her can really be felt here. One of the most breathtaking places I have ever had coffee and cake and entry fee not extortionately expensive either. Pre booking is essential though. A bucket list must see.”

The Minack Theatre is open until December 31 and booking is essential for anyone hoping to visit. Local residents go free, but there is an entry fee for anyone else. Tickets include free readmission to the theatre for 12 months from the date of first entry.

The theatre is open for visits from 10am. Last admission may vary, depending on performance schedule, so it is worth checking opening times before you visit. The site is steep and includes many steps. It is open to the elements and surfaces may be slippery in wet weather.

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‘Picturesque’ Cornish town is ‘great in autumn’ for ‘quiet coastal walks’

The pretty harbour town stuns throughout the year, but autumn could be the perfect season for a relaxed visit

Coastal lovers know the perfect spot for anyone seeking a quiet escape with peaceful walks and splendid views. For anyone who finds themselves near Cornwall, Fowey could offer an ideal autumn day out or staycation.

The pretty harbour town attracts visitors year-round, but there’s lots to charm autumn visitors, who might like to take in the atmospheric cobbled streets and less-crowded coastal walks with a hot chocolate in hand. Ruby’s Ice Cream, which offers ice cream shops in Cornwall, praised Fowey as an autumn destination in a recent social media video.

Taking to TikTok, @rubysicecreamshop shared a post titled: “7 reasons you should visit Fowey this Autumn.” The list read:

1. The artisanal shops and cafes2. The dining3. The ferry across to Polruan4. The hot chocolates5. The quiet coastal walks6. The bakeries7. The ice cream

Visit Cornwall describes Fowey as “perfect for exploring.” The tourism board’s website says: “Perched on the banks of a deep river, Fowey is a picturesque town overflowing with history.

“Dating back to medieval times, its narrow cobbled streets are now lined with Victorian and Edwardian buildings which cascade towards the water’s edge.

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“Fowey’s natural deep-water harbour and sheltered waters established it as an important trading hub throughout the centuries for tin, copper and China clay – the latter of which is still exported from the area today.

“The town sits within the South Coast – Eastern National Landscape and is bordered by farmland, rugged coastline and pretty beaches. The meandering creeks of the river wind through ancient oak woodlands, making the area perfect for exploring.”

On TripAdvisor, the Fowey Estuary has hundreds of excellent ratings. One reviewer wrote: “Whenever we visit this part of Cornwall, we always try to get to visit Fowey. There are plenty of pubs, cafes, and restaurants to choose from, and a good selection of shops, including some local independents.

“We always make time to walk out to Readymoney Cove, and sometimes also St Catherine’s Fort, enjoying the views of the estuary along the way. There are toilets and a small beach shop at Readymoney Cove.”

Another visitor said: “What a delightful place. We parked at the top of the town and walked down. This is quite steep for anyone who may have difficulty walking. The lovely streets with quaint shops enable you to just meander down to the estuary. But you just have to buy some delicious Cornish pasties too.”

Someone else praised: “What a beautiful place, loads to do around the town with some of the best restaurants, great shops and fantastic views. Will be back again.” Another fan wrote: “Great place to unwind, and chill on the river. Fowey Town has a thriving mix of restaurants pubs and variety on entertainment to easily keep you there for a week.”

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The South West Coast Path’s ‘forgotten section’: the quiet pleasures of south-east Cornwall | Walking holidays

At the end of Downderry’s shingle and sand, there’s a tumble of rocks and then a long beach stretching eastwards into the distance at the foot of the cliffs. Sitting on the rocks is a man with five raffish dogs that immediately start prowling around me and my partner, Sophie. A wet nose touches my bare calf.

Every long-distance trek has these decisive moments. The South West Coast Path has plenty. Should we stay on the beach, or take to the cliff? What’s the tide doing? And, more immediately, are these dogs going to bite my bum? It has happened to me once before.

Map of south east Cornwall showing places mentioned on the walk

“Nice dogs.”

The man shrugs. “They’re all right.”

That’s that sorted then.

“Is there a way up the cliff, off that beach?”

“See the rock?” He points into the far distance where a headland juts out. “Just before that, look for the blue rope. It’s a scramble.” He looks at us, like the director of Poldark assessing extras for a gruelling fight scene with Aidan Turner. “You should manage. Tide’s going out.” He gives a sly grin. “Lovely day for it.”

Red sandstone rock at ‘pretty’ Cawsand. Photograph: Kevin Britland/Alamy

We thank him and set off. Every journey has its turning points, I reflect, especially when you push off from the safe haven of the guidebook and OS map into the uncharted waters of local knowledge. Boots crunching into shingle, I wonder why he grinned like that. Have we been duped?

I first came to the South West Coast Path as a teenager in 1978 when I heard on the radio that the entire 630-mile route was open. The statistics were what captured my imagination: climb four times the height of Everest, embark on 13 ferries, scale 436 stiles and pass 4,000 signs. That averaged out at one sign every 250 metres, on a path where the sea is always on one side. It was, I told my sceptical parents, impossible to get lost.

With a schoolmate, I hitchhiked to Plymouth where we immediately got lost and spent a miserable night in a concrete underpass. Next day, having hitched to Penzance, we began walking west and made it to Land’s End. It was less than heroic, but over subsequent years I’ve done a lot more of the path, perhaps even most of it. I did not, however, go back to Plymouth. Bad memories. Now I discover that the path west of the city is considered the “forgotten” section, the bit least visited. That intrigues me.

A glance at the map shows how modern road and rail links into Cornwall from Plymouth bypass a sizeable peninsula of land, the Rame, formed by the English Channel, Plymouth Sound, and the rivers Lynher and Tamar. Before those car and train routes were built, travellers bound for Cornwall would usually cross the Rame. They would go down to the city docks and get themselves rowed across the Hamoaze, as this stretch of the Tamar is known, no doubt weaving through a chaotic throng of smacks, sloops, gigs and galleons. In 1811, one such traveller was the artist JMW Turner, who had himself ferried across, then set off walking around the coast, carrying six blank sketchbooks, lots of pencils and a fishing rod. He had been commissioned to contribute to one of the first tourist guides, Picturesque Views on the Southern Coast of England. We are walking the same route, but in the opposite direction.

Back on the beach at Downderry, having checked the tide times on my phone, we decide to trust in the blue rope. At a point where the cliff leaves only a few feet of shingle to pass, we discover why the helpful dog-owner had grinned. There is a naked man standing in the shallows.

British naturism often seems to feature pot-bellied middle-aged men staring out to sea like goose-pimpled Gormley statues. Battern Cliffs, I discover later, is an informal naturist beach.

The folly at Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. Photograph: Dual Aspect Photography/Alamy

Further down the strand, past a couple more quasi-Gormleys, we find the blue rope and scramble up through a beautiful cool forest of holm oaks. The plant life on this walk is a never-ending joy: from the tiny details of delicate ferns and spleenworts to the huge columns of giant viper’s bugloss and this sepulchral forest. Buried within the shade, we find the ruins of a Victorian folly, St Germans Hut, and connect back to the coastal path, strolling in sunshine along the tops all the way to Portwrinkle.

When Turner came here, Cornwall was not the tourist honeypot of today. Just a few years before he arrived, the oracle of what was “picturesque”, the Rev William Gilpin, had denounced the county as being “without a single beauty to recommend it”. Other grandees were equally scathing: “brooding evil” and “hideous and wicked” were among the kinder comments. Turner, however, led the vanguard in reassessment, filling his notebooks with quick-fire sketches that deftly captured the spirit of the land.

After a night in a friendly B&B in Sheviock (the owners take us to their favourite pub, the defiantly quirky Rod and Line in Tideford), we rejoin the path at Whitsand golf course. Soon after that, we encounter the biggest irritation of the South West Coast Path, one Turner never had to contend with: the Ministry of Defence. Red flags are flying over Tregantle Down and we’re forced to use the road. I know the Russians are about to invade and we should get ready, but surely they will be repulsed when they see our coastal Gormleys?

Despite the MoD, the next section up to and around Rame Head is one of the best, skirting secret little sandy coves and finishing along Plymouth Sound into the pretty village of Cawsand. This place has a fine seafood restaurant, The Bay, and some good pubs. (There is also a foot passenger summer ferry to Plymouth if you want to skip ahead.)

We stay the night nearby, then walk through the shady 865-acre Mount Edgcumbe country park. The gardens are filled with camellia varieties, but I’ve just missed the flowers, sadly. Get there in May, I reckon.

The Cremyll foot ferry across the Hamoaze to Plymouth. Photograph: Chris Alan Wilton/Alamy

Emerging on the Tamar River, we catch the Cremyll foot ferry across the Narrows to Plymouth. If I still have bitter memories of that night in the concrete underpass in 1978, they are soon dispelled. The revitalised Royal William Yard is now home to a brewery, cafes and art studios. The sun is shining and there are warships manoeuvring out in the Sound. We stroll around to the Hoe where, during the summer of 1815, huge crowds gathered to watch a pot-bellied middle-aged man stare out to sea from the deck of another warship, the 74-gun Battle of Trafalgar veteran, HMS Bellerophon. Her cargo was the captured Emperor Napoleon, held here before being shipped to Saint Helena. The crowds cheered, causing outrage in some quarters.

We wander down to the refurbished lido and spot a set of steps and terraces. The sea is full of people swimming out to a couple of floating platforms. I have swum every day of this walk and I do so again. Plymouth and this forgotten slice of Cornwall, I have to admit, has fully redeemed itself.

The trip was provided by Inntravel, which has a six-night walking tour of Cornwall’s south-east coast with breakfasts, luggage transfers and route maps from £1,035

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BBC presenter was sacked after ‘deeply inappropriate’ radio segments that went ‘well beyond innuendo’, tribunal hears

A BBC radio presenter who was sacked for his inappropriate radio segments says he thought he was acting within the guidelines.

Jack Murley, from Bodmin, was employed by BBC Radio Cornwall, in Truro, from 2019 until he was taken off air by the broadcaster in 2023.

A smiling man with dark hair and a beard, wearing a plaid shirt, with his arms crossed.

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Jack Murley was taken off air by the broadcaster in 2023
The BBC logo on the BBC Worldwide headquarters in London.

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The presenter’s dismissal came after a ‘heated conversation’ with his bossCredit: Getty

His dismissal came after a “heated conversation” with his boss over his social media use.

The presenter was taken off air despite believing he was “acting within the BBC’s social media guidelines”, a tribunal heard.

Since 2022 Mr Murley had offered his views on social media about the BBC’s Local Value For All project, questions were also raised about one of his radio features.

Mr Murley’s Loosest Goose segment, a satirical show that included innuendo, was described at the disciplinary hearing as being “deeply inappropriate” and “well beyond innuendo.”

One of the beebs senior news editors told the tribunal it had been a “clear and straightforward decision” to consider the case as “gross misconduct.”

At the hearing in Exeter Mr Murley explained he would have been willing to make changes or even “undertake training” to keep his job.

He said if concerns were raised with him he would have acted to address them.

The former presenter is now seeking a whopping £48,000 in compensation.

The corporation said they removed the presenter from the airwaves because of the “heated conversation” he had with his manager.

According to Mr Murley the row stemmed from his social media use, which the firm took issue with.

Gary Lineker apologises for antisemitic post and confirms he’s quitting BBC next week

A senior news editor at BBC Wales was the hearing manager for the disciplinary proceedings brought against Mr Murley.

The senior news editor said social media posts were viewed in the same light as a broadcast.

Speaking at the tribunal he would go on to say Mr Murley: “Should have had the knowledge and experience to be compliant with the guidelines.”

Mr Murley’s disciplinary hearing went to appeal and the hearing manager director of BBC Northern Ireland, Adam Smyth, upheld the decision.

Smyth said the corporation has to “be sure that our presenters are trustworthy.”

Mr Murley is said to have claimed he had several examples of managers endorsing his innuendo in his Loosest Goose radio feature.

He questioned how he was supposed to know that the show breached guidelines given that his seniors endorsed it.

The former presenter explained at the hearing: “I thought I was in the right.”

He added: “I think there was a way back, I wanted to stay at the BBC, I loved the BBC.”

The tribunal continues.

BBC News’ Biggest Blunders

The Beeb has suffered a number of gaffes recently, here we take a look at the biggest, and funniest, mishaps to date:

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‘I took my six-year-old on a holiday that turned into the best trip of her life’

Mum Vikki White had never been on a coach holiday before when she headed to Newquay with her mother and young daughter but she wasn’t prepared for what awaited

What do a six-year-old girl and an 80-something-year-old mum have in common? They both loved our classic British coach holiday to Newquay!

According to latest research, us Brits are thoroughly embracing multi-generational travel, which is why I decided it was time for me to try out the trend.

My six-year-old , my mother and me (a 40-something) were keen to spend a few days together in the school holidays and a Daish’s Holidays coach trip to Newquay looked to meet all of our requirements.

It’s safe to say I was a bit unsure – from sunshine breaks to skiing to UK jaunts, I try to squeeze in as many holidays as I can each year, but a coach trip was a first.

Thankfully, from the moment we hopped onboard our luxury vehicle, we felt right at home. Much to my relief, given the 320-mile trip we were embarking on, the coach was modern, boasting comfy seats with foot rests and air conditioning.

READ MORE: Ryanair issues holiday alert to Brits flying to Europe in October

So far, so good. Many of the friendly clientele on board told us they regularly took Daish’s Holidays coach trips, which was surely a good sign. They explained it isn’t a mode of travel for the impatient—we stopped at several service stations for rest along the way. With a bit of traffic as we headed down towards the South West region, we only just made it for dinner at our home for the next four nights, the Barrowfield Hotel.

Close to Newquay’s seafront, the 80-room residence is managed by Frank, who stepped on board the coach to personally greet us. My daughter was keen to hand over her ‘golden ticket’ to another member of the smiling staff at reception and was thrilled to be offered a choice of toys in return. There were only a few children staying at the hotel, and I thought this was a lovely touch.

Just like on the coach, we had our own seats in the dining room for our half-board meals, which needed to be selected in the morning for the evening and vice versa. From breakfast fry-ups to roast dinners with apple crumbles, dishes here are hearty and traditional.

The evening entertainment in the bar ranged from cabaret dancing and quizzes to live singers and bingo, with a kids’ games room providing even more entertainment. The number one attraction for all three of us at the hotel, however, was the indoor, heated swimming pool. We made full use of this during our stay and often had it to ourselves.

Keen to explore Newquay, we were pleased to find its tourist heart a short seafront stroll away. We tried out the Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay, which sits above lively Towan Beach and my daughter loved the informative talks about its resident Loggerhead Turtle and Blacktip Reef Sharks.

My mother was keener to try some of the trendy coffee shops on offer, and we particularly loved Mothersurf with its amazing cheese toasties. There are plenty of shops to peruse, and we couldn’t resist a play in one of the traditional arcades, with game machines spitting out tickets for every win that could be exchanged for prizes.

Back to the Barrowfield Hotel, where our bedrooms were spacious, with comfortable beds and great walk-in showers. And while our half board deal was a total bargain, we couldn’t resist heading out to check out local eateries on two of our nights’ stay – our favourite was Ginger and Joe, which offered tasty artisanal small plates and fabulous cocktails.

On our third day, we signed up for an optional coach trip to St Ives, the picturesque seaside town we decided was the perfect place to indulge in a cream tea. We headed to the Scoff Troff Cafe and were not disappointed. Being in Cornwall, we were sure to spread the layer of jam first before applying clotted cream!

Another highlight of this day out was the Tate St Ives, which had some brilliant activities on offer for youngsters. As for me, I loved the gift shop, which was filled with unique and creative finds. The Tate sits above the soft, sandy Porthmeor Beach, where we grabbed a coffee in one of the most stunning cafes I’ve ever seen before heading back to base.

As for Newquay, we had one more day to explore before making the long journey back up North. We first spent some time snuggled up on one of our hotel’s comfy sofas, chatting to our fellow guests who had become friends. We next headed out to paddle our feet in the water at beautiful Tolcarne Beach, which is just 200 yards away from the hotel.

We enjoyed a final potter into the lively city centre too, where we bought henna tattoos to mark our girls’ trip away, before returning to the Barrowfield to pack up ahead of our early start the next morning. I loved how clear the communication is on a Daish’s holiday – from what time we were going to eat to the exact time of our departure, it was all made easy for us.

As we prepared to depart, my mum told the hotel manager, Frank, that my daughter had pronounced our trip the best holiday of her life. Much to her delight, this earned her a large Daish’s teddy bear, which took pride of place on the coach back home!

We all felt the same – we had had a blast, and as we said goodbye to our driver and fellow passengers, we decided we needed to make our short coach break an annual occurrence. Daish’s Holidays offers a range of UK destinations from Llandudno to Eastbourne and Scarborough to Torquay, so we just need to decide where to go next.

Book the holiday

A Daish’s Holiday package includes luxury coach travel or free hotel guest parking on-site at most locations, convenient pickup and drop-off along popular routes, breakfast and three-course evening meals every day and on-site entertainment. Prices from £179 to £379 for self-drive and from £199 to £399 for the coach. Early Booking and Kids Go Free discounts also apply.

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‘Most beautiful autumn town’ and now is the ‘perfect’ time to visit

A town in the south-west of England has been labelled as one of the “most beautiful autumn towns” in the UK, with people saying it’s a “beautiful place with tons of character”

St Ives, a popular surfing destination in Cornwall with its stunning beaches and vibrant art scene, has been lauded as an exceptional holiday spot throughout the year, not just during the summer months.

In fact, Premier Inn has dubbed St Ives one of the “most beautiful autumn towns”, saying that the cooler seasons are the “perfect time to experience the beaches without the crowds”.

This historic town in the southwest is famed for its beaches which draw tourists and surfers from all corners of the globe.

Its sandy stretches include Harbour Beach, Porthmeor, Porthminster, Porthgwidden, Carbis Bay, Bamaluz, Lambeth Walk, and Porthkidney.

Three of these – Porthminster, Porthmeor and Carbis Bay – have been honoured with Blue Flag status this year, a prestigious international recognition of excellent coastal water quality and environmental stewardship, reports the Express.

Both Carbis Bay and Harbour Beach scooped TripAdvisor Travellers Choice 2025 awards. One chuffed visitor described Harbour Beach as “a beautiful part of Cornwall with tons of character”, while another said: “I have never seen such a beautiful place in the U.K as St Ives beach. Many have said it’s like being abroad and it really is!”.

Meanwhile, Carbis Bay has been described as “absolutely beautiful” and “well worth the walk down the hillside to reach it”.

A second visitor posted: “Paddleboarding at Carbis Bay Beach in St Ives is a truly delightful experience. The beach itself is a picturesque haven, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters that provide the perfect backdrop for a day of adventure.”

For those who enjoy staying active, there are water activities available such as surfing and paddleboarding, alongside other pursuits like tennis and golf.

The locale also boasts a celebrated artistic heritage, featuring numerous galleries and attractions to discover including the Tate, St Ives Arts Club and Leach Pottery.

Among the most beloved destinations is the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.

The venue has been described as “one of the best art places in the world” by one enthusiastic tourist.

They added: “The garden with the sculptures is amazing and then seeing her workshop … just wow.”

Another said: “Always visit here when we are at St Ives. Stunning garden and sculpture. Terrific atmosphere. A very informative display as you enter and a small amount of gifts can be purchased too.”

St Ives has been crowned the top family holiday destination by Coast magazine, and was also recognised as the UK’s most joyful location for holidaymakers, according to research by holidaycottages.co.uk..

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A man in his 70s and woman in her 60s have been found dead with ‘serious injuries’ as cops launch probe

A MAN in his 70s and woman in her 60s have been found dead with “serious injuries” – sparking an urgent police probe.

Emergency services rushed to the property in Cornwall on Wednesday night after a report to authorities concerning the pair’s welfare, cops said.

A residential street with several two-story houses, some with stone facades, under a cloudy sky.

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A man and woman were found dead at a property in Treclago View, Cornwall (street view)

Authorities arrived at the home in Treclago View, Camelford at 10pm.

The elderly man and woman, who were known to each other, had “sustained serious injuries” and were tragically pronounced dead at the scene after

Local Detective Inspector Peter Gee said: “We are supporting the next of kin of the people who have died in this very sad incident.

“Officers are carrying out enquiries to establish exactly what has happened but we are not seeking anyone else in relation to this matter.”

He added: “A cordon remains in place at the address while officers continue with their enquiries and a thorough examination of the scene is conducted.

“There will be a heightened police presence in the area, and we encourage anyone with concerns to speak with officers.”

Devon and Cornwall Police appealed for anyone with information to contact them online or by telephone on 101, quoting reference number 50250248436.

A probe has been launched to establish the exact circumstances of the two deaths.

Cops also confirmed: “A man in his 70s and a woman in her 60s had sustained serious injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene.

“They were known to each other and their next of kin have been informed.”

Woman feared dead after horror house blaze in Scots village as man rushed to hospital

Earlier this week, two people were found dead in a home sparking an urgent probe over their “unexplained” deaths.

Neighbours were left shocked after the bodies were discovered at a property in the village of Ormesby, North Yorkshire, on Wednesday, police said.

Cleveland Police are treating the deaths as “unexplained” at present with detectives carrying out investigations.

property on Millbeck Way was cordoned off on Thursday morning after police made the grim discovery on Wednesday afternoon.

One local resident told TeessideLive that they hadn’t seen the people living at the property in “almost three weeks”.

They said: “I had a funny feeling after a week that something wasn’t right.”

Another resident said: “I was gutted when I heard, it was sad really.

“They were lovely people to speak to, they were to me, they were polite.”

There were also reports of the windows of the property being smashed or boarded up.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: “At approximately 2.45pm on Wednesday, September 24, police attended to a property on Millbeck Way and located two bodies inside.

“The deaths are currently being treated as unexplained as detectives begin an investigation into the circumstances.

“A scene is in place at the property.”

More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

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Beach with a bridge to its very own island is ‘dreamiest’ in the UK

The beautiful beach has been described as the ‘perfect beach for families’ – and it’s not hard to see why

A “breathtaking” UK beach has left visitors so awestruck that they’re urging others to add it to their “bucket list.” The award-winning Porth Beach, tucked away on the Cornish coast between the bustling tourist hotspots of Newquay and Watergate Bay, is a must-see.

Praised as the “ideal beach for families”, Porth Beach also draws in walkers, swimmers, and paddleboarders. For locals, this is old news – but for those living further inland, Porth Beach could be just the ticket for a day trip.

The sandy beach is cosily nestled between headlands, and to the north, there’s a quaint footbridge leading to Porth Island. TikTok user @cornwall_lover posted a video showcasing the ‘breathtaking’ beach, reports the Express.

The caption read: “If you’ve not yet visited Porth beach in Newquay, get it on the bucket list. Perfect for paddleboarding at high tide, families who want to play in shallow streams and for those that love exploring, walk the coast path and step over the bridge to Porth Island, currently adorned with vibrant sea pink flowers”.

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In the video, the blogger gushed: “The dreamiest beach in Cornwall with a bridge to its very own island.” The post quickly racked up comments from viewers.

One person said at the time of the post: “So beautiful. I’m hoping to visit it this summer.” Another added: “Ooh this looks delightful.”

A local reminisced: “I grew up just up the road from here. Many happy memories of this beach.” Yet another said: “Porth Beach, my local & favourite place to be.”

Porth Beach is a hit on Tripadvisor, where it’s ranked as the top attraction in Newquay. One reviewer praised: “Beautiful, clean beach and cliffside. We had a nice walk along the cliff side and the views were beautiful.

“The locals are very friendly and we had a nice chat with some of them. There’s a holiday park in front of the beach, we didn’t stay here but seems like an ideal location if you want to be close to the beach!”.

Another visitor said: “Lovely clean beach with stunning views. Depending on the tide it can be a short walk to the sea. The beach can be very busy on hot days between 10am-5pm. The water is clean and clear.”

A third added: “Fantastic beach and amenities as always. We have been coming here for the last 12 years and have never been disappointed on our visit.”

Visit Cornwall states: “Porth Beach is an award-winning Newquay beach, and a popular narrow stretch of golden sand and turquoise water situated between the town of Newquay and Watergate Bay. Flanked and sheltered by two vast headlands, the spectacular beach welcomes visitors, locals, and surfers year-round.

“As of 2024, Porth Beach has been awarded the Seaside Award which celebrates the commitment to environment, water quality, and safety of the beach.”

Porth Beach, located in Newquay, Cornwall with the postcode TR7 3NH, is a mere 30-minute stroll from the nearest train station, Newquay Train Station. For those opting to drive, there’s also paid parking conveniently located near the beach.

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‘We ditched Cornwall staycation for French Riviera with the kids and saved over £1k’

Travel blogger Jen Carr took her kids to France instead of Cornwall for less than half the price it would have cost to holiday in the UK. This is exactly how she did it

Jen Carr, family travel expert and founder of The Travel Mum.
Jen Carr, family travel expert and founder of The Travel Mum.

When planning a half-term break, Cornwall tops the list for its beautiful beaches, cosy cottages and a holiday without the airport stress – but it’s not cheap.

Travel blogger and mum Jen says she recently took her family to France after pricing up Cornwall and realising it was more expensive than going on holiday abroad.

“We recently priced up a summer break – a week in a two-bedroom caravan in a holiday park in Cornwall came in at £2,100,” she says. “And that’s before adding petrol, meals out, and activities!

“For the exact same dates as that caravan in Cornwall, we found a week at a French holiday camp for under £1,000 – literally half the price. More sunshine, better facilities, more fun – and for less money.”

The money she saved on the campsite went towards flights and car hire. But it wasn’t just accommodation costs where she managed to save money. The blogger, who runs The Travel Mum, has revealed other ways people can save some serious cash.

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Petrol vs flights

“Driving from where we live to Cornwall takes seven hours each way and, with fuel prices as they are, would’ve cost us around £120 just in petrol. (Plus 14 hours of hell in the car with the kids…)

“We found flights to the French Riviera for under £500 for four people. You can get flights to Paris for even less, currently around £350 for four people in August. If you can travel light you save a fortune by not adding a big check in luggage.”

Holiday camp hack

“The South of France has absolutely mastered the art of the family holiday camp. Think pools, huge playgrounds, kids’ clubs packed with activities, and evening entertainment that keeps everyone happy.

:And the best part? For the exact same dates as that caravan in Cornwall, we found a week at a French holiday camp for under £1,000 – literally half the price. More sunshine, better facilities, more fun… for less money.”

Jen Carr.
Jen Carr – The Travel Mum – shares the best affordable holiday deals for families throughout the week.

Eating out costs less

“In Cornwall, we’ve spent £60+ on a family pub lunch without even trying. In France, we were eating out in little village restaurants for €35-€40 total – three courses, bread, and a glass of wine included.

Supermarkets are much cheaper too. We stocked up on fresh baguettes, cheese, and fruit for picnics and spent much less than we would on a similar supermarket shop in the UK.”

Car hire ‘dream’

“This one’s less about saving money and more about saving your sanity. If you’ve ever braved Cornwall in peak season, you’ll know the chaos of narrow lanes, endless queues, and half the UK heading there at once.

“In contrast, driving in France is a dream – wide, quiet roads, smooth journeys, and far less stress. Plus, car hire is surprisingly affordable if you book in advance, making it an easy win for both comfort and convenience.”

The bottom line

“Everyone assumes UK staycations are going to be cheaper than going abroad, but that isn’t always the case. When you add up flights, accommodation, eating out, and activities, France actually cost us less – and let us explore a whole new area of the world.

“Our holiday in France could have been even cheaper too! The French Riviera isn’t known for being the cheapest part of the country, but we have always wanted to visit.

“Would we swap Cornwall for France again next half-term? Absolutely. Next time, we’re eyeing up Brittany, the Atlantic coast and even Corsica! Sometimes, going abroad really is the budget option.”

READ MORE: Get a pair of Clarks’ back to school shoes for less than £10 in clever deal

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UK’s most westerly village with very famous fan and incredible claim to fame

As the most westerly village in the UK, this Cornish village has a claim to fame that is enough in and of itself to have visitors flocking to its doors

Sunset on the beach at Kenidjack Valley. Rocks and sea. Seascape. St Just, Penzance, Cornwall, England, Great Britain
Sunset on the beach at Kenidjack Valley(Image: Getty)

As Britain’s most westerly village, this Cornish settlement boasts a unique distinction that alone draws countless visitors to its shores.

Blessed with a temperate climate, exotic gardens, and miles of stunning coastline dotted with independent retailers, St Just offers a full day of exploration and attractions.

Situated close to Land’s End and merely eight miles from Penzance, this picturesque spot is also rich in heritage, having once served as the heart of the tin mining trade.

At St Just’s core stands Plain-an-Gwarry, a theatre that staged performances during medieval times.

Today it plays host to the Lafrowda Festival, according to Cornwall Guide, reports the Express.

Free-roaming ponies in Nanjizal Bay or Nanjizal Beach. St Just, Penzance, Cornwall, England, Great Britain
Free-roaming ponies in Nanjizal Bay(Image: Getty)

Within the grounds of St Just Church, visitors will discover magnificent exotic gardens that have thrived in the Roseland peninsula’s gentle climate.

Hailed as one of Britain’s most stunning churchyards by poet John Betjeman, it descends towards an enchanting creek.

The location also sits alongside Cape Cornwall, which seafaring navigators of yesteryear mistook for ‘Land’s End’, marking where the English Channel and St Georges Channel converge.

Heinz Ltd purchased the cape for the nation in 1987 before gifting it to the National Trust to commemorate the firm’s centenary, according to Visit Cornwall.

Local residents have nicknamed the coastal rocks “General De Gaul in the bath” due to their distinctive silhouette when seen from the mainland. Every year, a swim event takes place covering the mile between the rocks and the cove.

If you’re up for a dip in the sea, you might spot some grey seals frolicking in the waters.

The South West Coast Path is a treasure trove of hidden beaches waiting to be discovered. Many of these picturesque spots were featured in the BBC’s hit series Poldark, which delves into the area’s smuggling history.

The cliffshide ruins of the engine house of Botallack tin mine, on the Atlantic coast near St Just, Cornwall, United Kingdom
The cliffshide ruins of the engine house of Botallack tin mine(Image: Getty)

Locations include Botallack, Levant and Geevor.

According to Tripadvisor, you can embark on a tour of these filming locations.

One visitor shared their five-star experience: “We had such a lovely day with Becky. She was so knowledgeable not just about Poldark but about the history and culture of Cornwall. We also had a stop at the Minack Theater which was fantastic and although not related to Poldark was a unique piece of Cornish history that was so fun to explore. 10/10 would highly recommend.”

Botallack mine is another must-visit site, earning high praise on Tripadvisor. The stunning views offer a glimpse of a jagged and dramatic coastline.

Another visitor gave the experience five stars, saying: “Incredible views of the remains of the Crowns, Cornish engine houses perched on the cliff edge. Right on the SWCP coast path, a path leads down to the engine house or there are benches at the top of the path where you can have a picnic and enjoy the view.”

They added: “Nearby Botallack Counthouse (National Trust) is a café which serves home made pasties and cakes and has games to entertain children. Large car park (pay and display, National Trust members free). A fabulous place to visit in any weather, in hazy summer sun or in passionate winter storms.”

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‘Magical’ and ‘secluded’ UK village with ancient church and very special garden

St Just in Roseland is a civil parish and village in Cornwall, England, located just north of St Mawes and six miles south of Truro

The church of St Just-in-Roseland
The church dates back to the 13th century(Image: John Husband)

This secluded Cornish retreat boasts stunning natural beauty and one remarkable historic structure just six miles south of the bustling tourist destination, Truro.

St Just in Roseland stands out as a charming village and civil parish renowned for its breathtaking church and surprising tropical surroundings. Positioned just north of St Mawes, this hidden gem is perfectly nestled along the Cornwall coastline, providing peaceful views far from the usual Cornish attractions.

What sets this location apart is its 13th-century Church of England parish church, referred to by locals as St Just’s Church. This ancient structure is positioned amongst waterside gardens that house some of Britain’s most unusual species.

St Just’s Church rests peacefully at the water’s edge of a tidal creek, resembling something from a storybook, sitting quietly alongside the Carrick Roads, away from the main village centre. The approach features a delightful pathway constructed from granite stones that bear inscribed Biblical passages and meaningful quotes.

The surrounding gardens burst with verdant palm trees, blooms, vegetation and more, forming an enchanting miniature wilderness around the ancient building. One TripAdvisor reviewer describes St Just in Roseland as having “tranquil” gardens that are “the most beautiful” they’ve encountered at any church, reports the Express.

Just in Roseland Church, Carrick Roads, Coast, Cornwall
The church dates back to the 13th century(Image: Western Morning News)

Another delighted visitor said: “I have been to many wonderful churches, but this one is very special. For almost 1,500 years there has been a church on this site; even today there is a sense of peace and solitude.

“The graveyard is really a semi-tropical garden and compares well with some of the famous gardens in Cornwall.The church is relatively plain inside but provides a magic space to leave behind the modern world and all its troubles.”

Another visitor added: “This church and area are just so beautiful. The church and grounds are just so serene and peaceful and pretty. The views over the water from the church are beautiful.

“Lovely old graves and a well-kept graveyard. Definitely worth a visit if you love churches.”

The church interior welcomes respectful guests, serving as both a sanctuary for prayer and worship, plus a “place of respite” for the entire community.

According to its website, St Just in Roseland Church promises an experience “you will never forget you have visited”.

The site adds: “St Just church is open daily from 9am to 6pm in the summer and 9am to 4pm during the winter months.Please note there may be times when the church is closed – such as for a funeral or reflective service.”

The grounds also house charming Renwicks Café, which caters to both residents and holidaymakers within the subtropical gardens.

To find it, guests must venture beyond the main village along a narrow lane leading to the hillside church entrance.

While on-site parking is limited, roadside spaces offer an alternative for those travelling through.

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Pretty UK seaside town that’s best to visit in autumn when it’s free of tourists

The town is one of the top travel spots in Europe in autumn

Trevone Bay, Cornwall, Drone Photo
The town is pefect in autumn(Image: TMW Photography via Getty Images)

Trevone Bay in Cornwall has been hailed as one of Europe’s top autumn travel destinations. According to CN Traveller, it’s the best spot across the continent for a breath of fresh sea air and is conveniently located near the bustling harbour town of Padstow in the north of the county.

For those seeking a quieter, slower-paced Cornish experience once the peak travel season has passed, this idyllic location is perfect. Despite its small size, like many of Cornwall’s coastal spots, Trevone Bay more than compensates with its stunning beauty.

The bay offers visitors a gently sloping sandy beach nestled between towering cliffs, featuring the iconic Trevone Round Hole and the popular tidal pool, reports the Express.

View over Trevone Bay and its empty, pristine beach, near Padstow in Cornwall, UK
Trevone Bay is located near the bustling harbour town of Padstow in North Cornwall(Image: Getty)

In fact, it was the proud recipient of a Blue Flag Award and Seaside Award in 2024, recognising its commitment to environmental standards, water quality and beach safety.

And for those seeking self-catered luxury accommodation on the clifftop, Atlanta Trevone is just steps away from the surfer-friendly beach.

Holidaymakers can also opt for The Pig at Harlyn Bay, boasting beds so comfortable you’ll struggle to get up for the picture-perfect coastal sunrise.

Trevone Bay, Cornwall, UK
The bay is perfect for autumn holidaymakers hoping to miss the busy travel season(Image: Getty)

Trevone Bay is buzzing with activity, both onshore and off.

With the South West Coast Path traversing the clifftops, walkers can revel in the breathtaking coastal scenery and views stretching to Hawkers Cove, the Camel Estuary and beyond.

Visitors can also marvel at the fascinating 80 ft blow-hole known as Round Hole, a result of a collapsed sea cave, which contributes to the area’s geological significance and its designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

For marine wildlife enthusiasts, Rocky Beach is just around the small headland, aptly named for its rocky outcrop, making it an ideal spot for rock-pooling.

Additionally, there’s the Trevone tidal pool, one of the largest on the Cornish coast, fondly referred to by locals as ‘Tinker Bunny’s Bathing Pool’.

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‘Beautiful’ UK road trip features seven gorgeous coastal stops

If you’re looking to get the most out of the final weeks of the summer, look no further than this road trip which stops at a number of coastal towns in one of the country’s most beautiful counties

Aerial view of the town and beach of Padstow on The Camel Estuary in Cornwall, UK which is a popular vacation destination on a sunny Summer day
One couple say they’ve cracked the perfect way to explore Cornwall’s stunning coastline (stock image)(Image: Teamjackson via Getty Images)

A travel influencer has shared her ultimate guide to exploring Cornwall’s stunning coastline, featuring seven gorgeous towns along the coastal county. Char, who runs the TikTok account CJ Explores alongside her husband Cory, has mapped out the perfect week-long road trip across North Cornwall in a video that’s prompted discussion among locals and tourists alike.

The couple have dubbed their itinerary the “Cornwall road trip you have to do ONCE in your life”, featuring a different town or village for each day of the week. Starting at Boscastle, the journey winds through breathtaking locations including Tintagel and Mother Ivey’s Bay before concluding in Newquay. Day two sees the duo recommend a visit to Tintagel, followed by stops at Port Isaac and then Padstow.

The beach at Bedrutheran Steps in Cornwall
The beach at Bedrutheran Steps in Cornwall (stock image)(Image: 1111IESPDJ via Getty Images)

The adventure continues to Mother Ivey’s Bay, then Constantine Bay and Bedruthan Steps, before wrapping up at their final destination. Viewers have been quick to save the travel tips, with many gushing about Cornwall’s undeniable charm.

One follower reminisced: “I was very lucky to go to Cornwall every weekend as a child with my parents, and it is one of the most beautiful places.”

Another appeared to have already tested the route, sharing: “Just done it on my motorbike with my son. Beautiful part of the world.”

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Some suggested additional gems worth visiting, including St Michael’s Mount and Kynance Cove. However, numerous commenters have been unanimous in their response to one specific location that Char and Cory highlighted.

One forthright comment from a viewer simply stated: “Don’t come to Padstow”, a feeling that was shared by others. Another user responded: “We drove through it was the busiest place we went to last week.

“Must be such a nightmare being local, feel for you. It was a ridiculous amount of tourists.” Despite some comments on Padstow’s charm, the exasperation felt by residents is palpable.

Padstow Harbour at blue hour, Cornwall, with reflections of the boats and lights in and around the harbour.
Locals in Padstow fear the effects of overtourism on house prices (stock image)(Image: mick blakey via Getty Images)

The town’s growing appeal has sparked a housing crisis. Locals struggle to afford homes as overtourism drives up property prices or turns them into holiday lets. As of March, Rightmove reported the average house price in Padstow was nearly £700,000.

While not an isolated issue in Cornwall, Padstow faces becoming a “ghost village” during off-peak seasons according to Cornwall Live. Properties remain vacant in the colder months, owned by tourists who only use them as second homes in the warmer periods.

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Cars left stranded in sea after tourists rush to save vehicles from rising tide

Footage shows cars parked in the Cornish seaside town of Polzeath as the tide rises around their tyres, with visitors rushing to rescue their vehicles before they are submerged.

Sunny day at Polzeath Beach in North Cornwall looking towards Pentire Point and Newlands Island. England, UK. (Photo by: Chris Harris/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
A tourist who left their car at Polzeath beach got a nasty shock when they returned (Image: UCG, UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Holidaymakers visiting the Cornish seaside town of Polzeath were left stunned to discover their cars slowly disappearing beneath the waves over the bank holiday weekend.

Video footage captures vehicles parked in the town on Cornwall’s north coast as the tide creeps up around their wheels, with panicked visitors scrambling to save their cars before they vanished underwater.

Dramatic scenes showing a 2010 Subaru Outback in danger were filmed by 34-year-old Sam Peters, who witnessed the mayhem as good Samaritans rallied to help the motorist retrieve their vehicle.

He said: “Everyone was panicking and it caused much distress. Many onlookers were surprised and concerned, and some tried to help.

“Several cars got caught in the rising tide and became stuck on the beach. The car finally got pushed out by many supporters on the beach.”

This marks yet another occasion that tourists and residents have witnessed cars stranded by the waves at Polzeath, reports Cornwall Live.

People attempting to rescue one of the cars
People attempting to rescue one of the cars(Image: Sam Peters / Jam Press)

Further footage, filmed in May, revealed a Mini falling foul of the tide on the same stretch of sand. The clip, recorded by the Polzeath Beach Ranger Service, depicted the vehicle parked and encircled by water.

In a Facebook post, they cautioned drivers about the perils of parking on sand. They said: “If you drive over seaweed to get to your parking space, consider how the seaweed might have been delivered.”

Despite the cheeky comment, the service confirmed that the owner managed to rescue their car before it was carried off during one of the May bank holidays.

People attempting to rescue a car
People attempting to rescue a car(Image: Sam Peters / Jam Press)

A spokesperson for the service, speaking to Cornwall Live, offered some advice to drivers on how to avoid a similar situation.

They explained: “On this occasion, the tide was at its highest that day, but we do sometimes have higher spring tides. Many factors affect the height of the tide, including sun and moon phases, wind, waves and atmospheric pressure.

“It’s a beach car park – one of the last in the region – and it serves as a valuable resource for tourism and the community. It also helps to raise money to pay for necessary services like lifeguards, beach cleaning, road sweeping, bin emptying and toilets.

“As with all coastal destinations, there are risks associated with tides, weather and the landscape, and we encourage visitors to be aware of that. There are visible warning signs.”

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Popular UK beach made famous by Poldark is closed off to the public

A gorgeous UK beach dubbed one of the best in the world and frequented by travel influencers has had its public access cut off due to health and safety concerns

The National Trust has warned the path to the beach is dangerous
This popular beach has had its public access closed off(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A Cornish beach once dubbed among the best in the world and which featured in BBC’s Poldark has had its public access cut off.

Situated in the far west of Cornwall, Pedn Vounder is known for its turquoise waters, secluded cove and unofficial capacity as a nudist beach. However, tourists and swimmers looking forward to enjoying its pristine waters during the heatwave were met with a rope cordoning the beach off.

A red sign by the National Trust, which manages the path down to the beach but not the beach itself, reads: “Danger. No Access.” According to the National Trust, the path has been closed off due to erosion, which has made the path unstable and has now resulted in a “near vertical” six-metre climb down.

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Pedn Vounder
Access to Pedn Vounder has been closed off due to safety concerns(Image: Getty Images)

It also added the sea at the beach is “dangerous due to rip currents” and that there have been “regular serious incidents involving the emergency services”.

Pedn Vounder has long been notorious for its difficulty to access, with a long walk from any parking spots followed by a steep pathway down.

The beach’s closure during the peak summer period has been met with dismay by locals in the nearby village of Treen, who said the beauty spot has been drawing a large number of visitors in recent years.

It was recently voted one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world by EnjoyTravel.com, and has been a favourite stop for travel influencers.

Meanwhile, this July, the annual Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beaches guide featured it amongst its best beaches in the south west and it was also named the sixth best nudist beach in the UK, according to KAYAK.

The beach also featured on TV screens as the fictional Nampara Cove in the BBC’s historical drama Poldark, starring Aidan Turner. Rebecca Ley, 46, who visited the beach recently and grew up nearby, told The Times that the closure was “a real shame.”

She said: “Getting down was always a bit challenging, it’s definitely not one for flip flops, but I can’t say I noticed a massive difference from when I was a child.” She added that her nine-year-old had made it down “without difficulty”, as had about 100 other visitors that day.

A National Trust spokesperson told The Mirror: “Due to increasing coastal erosion, an unofficial and steep pathway across National Trust land leading to Pedn Vounder beach (not cared for by the National Trust) in Cornwall has become increasingly unsafe and is now temporarily closed.

“This decision has been made due to the significant increase in potential for serious injury and has been made in consultation with local authorities, emergency services and other partners.

“We understand this closure may disappoint visitors and the local community and have not taken the decision lightly. As a charity that promotes access to nature and culture we always try and maintain access wherever it’s possible to do so, but due to the increasing erosion undercutting the cliff we have made the difficult decision to close it.

“In the meantime, we encourage visitors to use nearby Porthcurno beach and to follow all local signage and safety advice. ”

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