Kelly’s guidebook
Great Beaches
This is a truly beautiful cove with a wonderful sandy beach, its great for children with lots of rock pools as well as being dog friendly. There's a great cafe and a good pub for refreshments.
There is a large car park which is about a 5 minute walk to the beach. Please note that access to the beach is over a slate and rock inlet, which whilst is easy to access may cause problems for those who are little less sure footed. Also, remember to look at the tide times, as when the tide is in there is no access to the beach.
Having said that, Trebarwith Strand is worth a visit and one of our favourite places.
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Trebarwith Beach
This is a truly beautiful cove with a wonderful sandy beach, its great for children with lots of rock pools as well as being dog friendly. There's a great cafe and a good pub for refreshments.
There is a large car park which is about a 5 minute walk to the beach. Please note that access to the beach is over a slate and rock inlet, which whilst is easy to access may cause problems for those who are little less sure footed. Also, remember to look at the tide times, as when the tide is in there is no access to the beach.
Having said that, Trebarwith Strand is worth a visit and one of our favourite places.
This is a popular beach with good local amenities and a great cafe cabin on the beach. This is a family beach with a long stretch of sand even in high tide. Dog friendly and great for surfing. Even in the depths of winter you will find swimmers!
There is a beach bar during the summer season which is popular and great in the early evening.
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Polzeath Beach
South West Coast PathThis is a popular beach with good local amenities and a great cafe cabin on the beach. This is a family beach with a long stretch of sand even in high tide. Dog friendly and great for surfing. Even in the depths of winter you will find swimmers!
There is a beach bar during the summer season which is popular and great in the early evening.
Daymer Bay is a good family friendly beach with a large car park. Driving to the beach is a little tight with narrow roads, but well worth it.
There are toilets open all year (small charge) with a cafe that is open most of the year.
The beach itself is great for paddling and for childrens water fun as it stays shallow for quite a while. You can see across the bay to Padstow which is great and for those that fancy a walk, on low tide you can walk around the rock to Rock. Also, look at the walk from Polzeath to Daymer Bay this is good way to spend some time on your visit.
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Daymer Bay
Daymer Bay is a good family friendly beach with a large car park. Driving to the beach is a little tight with narrow roads, but well worth it.
There are toilets open all year (small charge) with a cafe that is open most of the year.
The beach itself is great for paddling and for childrens water fun as it stays shallow for quite a while. You can see across the bay to Padstow which is great and for those that fancy a walk, on low tide you can walk around the rock to Rock. Also, look at the walk from Polzeath to Daymer Bay this is good way to spend some time on your visit.
Perranporth beach is one of the largest stretches of sandy beach in Cornwall. It is great for family fun or just a nice walk.
There is a small village with some shops and food places so you don't need to pack a lunch box! There are toilets in the large main car park which are open all year round.
With the beach being such a large stretch of sand, it is great for a day of beach fun and a picnic and even if its busy, you can always find a more private area.
I love this beach early evening when most of the people have left and enjoy the long walk in the sand as the sun starts to go down. Then back into a pub or cafe of a refreshment!
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Perranporth Beach
Perranporth beach is one of the largest stretches of sandy beach in Cornwall. It is great for family fun or just a nice walk.
There is a small village with some shops and food places so you don't need to pack a lunch box! There are toilets in the large main car park which are open all year round.
With the beach being such a large stretch of sand, it is great for a day of beach fun and a picnic and even if its busy, you can always find a more private area.
I love this beach early evening when most of the people have left and enjoy the long walk in the sand as the sun starts to go down. Then back into a pub or cafe of a refreshment!
Beautiful bay, stunning sandy beach and clear waters. This is another beach that is great for families, as the sea is fairly shallow for a fair way so the children can play and have lots of fun.
Harlyn Bay is just a bit further on than Padstow and about a 30 minute drive from us. There are some amenities here and a lovely pub across from the main car park which has some outside tables to sit and have a bite to eat after your fun on the beach.
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Harlyn Bay Beach
Beautiful bay, stunning sandy beach and clear waters. This is another beach that is great for families, as the sea is fairly shallow for a fair way so the children can play and have lots of fun.
Harlyn Bay is just a bit further on than Padstow and about a 30 minute drive from us. There are some amenities here and a lovely pub across from the main car park which has some outside tables to sit and have a bite to eat after your fun on the beach.
Crackington Haven is a very pretty bay, with a coastal path on either side. The beach is rugged with a stony area that you have to walk over to get to the sand. However the sand is very dramatic, with the waves leaving large creators which become fun pools to play in when the tide is out.
There is a main car park opposite the beach, however further up the road there is a larger car park with all proceeds going to a local charity. There are a couple of cafes, a small gift and art shop and toilet facilities here,. If you want to walk the coastal path, both ways are fairly tough going but if you are able, beautiful walks but not suitable for younger children.
This is our nearest beach at around 5 miles and it doesn't get very busy, so a nice place to visit.
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Crackington Haven
Crackington Haven is a very pretty bay, with a coastal path on either side. The beach is rugged with a stony area that you have to walk over to get to the sand. However the sand is very dramatic, with the waves leaving large creators which become fun pools to play in when the tide is out.
There is a main car park opposite the beach, however further up the road there is a larger car park with all proceeds going to a local charity. There are a couple of cafes, a small gift and art shop and toilet facilities here,. If you want to walk the coastal path, both ways are fairly tough going but if you are able, beautiful walks but not suitable for younger children.
This is our nearest beach at around 5 miles and it doesn't get very busy, so a nice place to visit.
This is a very large beach and great for walking especially if the tide is out, you can walk 2 miles to Crooklets beach. The car park at Sandymouth is National Trust.
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Sandymouth Bay Beach
This is a very large beach and great for walking especially if the tide is out, you can walk 2 miles to Crooklets beach. The car park at Sandymouth is National Trust.
Walks
Cardinham Woods is great for all the family. There are amazing walks in the woods, all have good trail paths. There are separate cycle routes from easy to hard (if you're up to it try the Bodmin Beast!).
There are a varying degree of distances for the routes and you can easily make your own up. We have walked for hours in the woods with our dog. Just remember to take water with you if you are going for a long one!
There is a lovely cafe just by the car park with a childrens play area, alternatively there are many bench tables for a picnic or alternatively take some charcoal and some BBQ food as near the rear car park area there are static BBQ areas all ready for you.
Whether its a beautiful day or more overcast the views are beautiful.
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Cardinham Bossen
Cardinham Woods is great for all the family. There are amazing walks in the woods, all have good trail paths. There are separate cycle routes from easy to hard (if you're up to it try the Bodmin Beast!).
There are a varying degree of distances for the routes and you can easily make your own up. We have walked for hours in the woods with our dog. Just remember to take water with you if you are going for a long one!
There is a lovely cafe just by the car park with a childrens play area, alternatively there are many bench tables for a picnic or alternatively take some charcoal and some BBQ food as near the rear car park area there are static BBQ areas all ready for you.
Whether its a beautiful day or more overcast the views are beautiful.
This church is where we park to walk from Tintagel to Trebarwith along the coastal path.
Tintagel to Trebarwith coastal path walk has breath taking views. The walk is around 3 miles, but it is tricky in a few parts and not suitable for young children, however we do take our dog on this walk, but there are areas she needs to stay on the lead.
If you park at Tintagel church which has free parking, you will see the path that leads down to the main coastal path route to Trebarwith. There are some steep areas to navigate, but it is well worth it and a very invigorating walk.
We pop into Tintagel first and get a pasty to take with us to eat on the beach at Trebarwith, lovely!
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St. Materiana's Church
This church is where we park to walk from Tintagel to Trebarwith along the coastal path.
Tintagel to Trebarwith coastal path walk has breath taking views. The walk is around 3 miles, but it is tricky in a few parts and not suitable for young children, however we do take our dog on this walk, but there are areas she needs to stay on the lead.
If you park at Tintagel church which has free parking, you will see the path that leads down to the main coastal path route to Trebarwith. There are some steep areas to navigate, but it is well worth it and a very invigorating walk.
We pop into Tintagel first and get a pasty to take with us to eat on the beach at Trebarwith, lovely!
Polzeath to Daymer Bay is a fantastic walk along the coastal path. Whilst many of the coastal paths are a bit of a challenge, this one is fairly flat and most of the walk is not too close to the cliff edge. We let our dog off the lead on this walk and there is easy passing when it is busy. The walk is not too long and a great way to see amazing views.
Stunning views of the coast and when you approach Daymer Bay you will be able to see across the water to Padstow and Rock is just around the corner!
When the tide is out, you are able to walk along the beach to Rock and if you want you can then take a short boat ride over to Padstow. A much less stressful way to see Padstow, as parking can be busy. Just remember to watch the tide times otherwise you will have to walk over the hill back to Daymer Bay! You will see this hill on one of my photos.
Polzeath Beach Car Park
Polzeath to Daymer Bay is a fantastic walk along the coastal path. Whilst many of the coastal paths are a bit of a challenge, this one is fairly flat and most of the walk is not too close to the cliff edge. We let our dog off the lead on this walk and there is easy passing when it is busy. The walk is not too long and a great way to see amazing views.
Stunning views of the coast and when you approach Daymer Bay you will be able to see across the water to Padstow and Rock is just around the corner!
When the tide is out, you are able to walk along the beach to Rock and if you want you can then take a short boat ride over to Padstow. A much less stressful way to see Padstow, as parking can be busy. Just remember to watch the tide times otherwise you will have to walk over the hill back to Daymer Bay! You will see this hill on one of my photos.
There is a wonderful walk around Bude canal path, if you fancy a longer walk there is actually a circular route from Marhamchurch to Summerleaze beach at Bude. The non canal side of the walk is good for both walkers and for bikes, where as the canal side is only for walkers.
On the walk there is a lot of marsh land which is protected and has a very varied variety of birds and wildlife. We have seen otters, water voles and many species of ducks and geese.
When you get to Bude, you can stay by the canal for refreshments, or walk to either the town or onto the Beach. It is a very versatile place to visit and has something for everyone.
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Bude Canal
There is a wonderful walk around Bude canal path, if you fancy a longer walk there is actually a circular route from Marhamchurch to Summerleaze beach at Bude. The non canal side of the walk is good for both walkers and for bikes, where as the canal side is only for walkers.
On the walk there is a lot of marsh land which is protected and has a very varied variety of birds and wildlife. We have seen otters, water voles and many species of ducks and geese.
When you get to Bude, you can stay by the canal for refreshments, or walk to either the town or onto the Beach. It is a very versatile place to visit and has something for everyone.
Sightseeing
Crowdy Reservoir is a short walk, but a very pretty area in the moors. The area is all flat, so easy to walk. You will see wild horses roaming on the land around the Resevoir, they often come quite close, but please do be careful and keep a distance to ensure both you and the horses stay safe.
You can walk across the walk way to the other side of the water. Crowdy Reservoir is only a couple of miles from our house, so definitely a good place to visit whilst you are here. One point of note though, if there has been a bit of rain the grass can get very wet, not muddy but you will need some waterproof footwear.
From the Resevoir you can see the Roughter Tors which are the highest points in Cornwall. These are another good place to visit, you can walk them and get an even better view of the moors.
Crowdy Reservoir
Crowdy Reservoir is a short walk, but a very pretty area in the moors. The area is all flat, so easy to walk. You will see wild horses roaming on the land around the Resevoir, they often come quite close, but please do be careful and keep a distance to ensure both you and the horses stay safe.
You can walk across the walk way to the other side of the water. Crowdy Reservoir is only a couple of miles from our house, so definitely a good place to visit whilst you are here. One point of note though, if there has been a bit of rain the grass can get very wet, not muddy but you will need some waterproof footwear.
From the Resevoir you can see the Roughter Tors which are the highest points in Cornwall. These are another good place to visit, you can walk them and get an even better view of the moors.
Brown Willy is the largest of the Tors, in Roughtor and is the highest point in Cornwall. You can drive here to a small car park which has a foot route through the moor to the first Tor which you can walk up and over and if you want travel on to Brown Willy.
This is a lovely area, and as you walk you will come across horses, sheep and cows on the moor, so please be respectful and keep your distance. They are no threat as they are used to visitors and tend to shy away from people.
You will need good sturdy walking shoes or boots for this one, as there is a lot of uneven ground and a number of rocks you have to navigate. When you get to the top, you will see Crowdy Reservoir and if a clear day you will see the coast line.
This is a good walk and even if you don't get to the top, it is fun to walk in the vast open rugged space. I wouldn't recommend it for very young children. This is only a few miles from us in Otterham, but do note that there are no facilities here and I would take some water with you especially if its a hot day. Toilets and shops are in Camelford only 2 miles away.
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Brown Willy Tor
Brown Willy is the largest of the Tors, in Roughtor and is the highest point in Cornwall. You can drive here to a small car park which has a foot route through the moor to the first Tor which you can walk up and over and if you want travel on to Brown Willy.
This is a lovely area, and as you walk you will come across horses, sheep and cows on the moor, so please be respectful and keep your distance. They are no threat as they are used to visitors and tend to shy away from people.
You will need good sturdy walking shoes or boots for this one, as there is a lot of uneven ground and a number of rocks you have to navigate. When you get to the top, you will see Crowdy Reservoir and if a clear day you will see the coast line.
This is a good walk and even if you don't get to the top, it is fun to walk in the vast open rugged space. I wouldn't recommend it for very young children. This is only a few miles from us in Otterham, but do note that there are no facilities here and I would take some water with you especially if its a hot day. Toilets and shops are in Camelford only 2 miles away.
This is a lovely place to visit with a lot of history and the ruins are beautiful. Best to book and try for a not too windy day as it is very open but the views are amazing.
Tintagel Castle
Castle RoadThis is a lovely place to visit with a lot of history and the ruins are beautiful. Best to book and try for a not too windy day as it is very open but the views are amazing.
Local Towns
Newquay is a well known surfing beach and good for surfing and families. There are a couple of bays which are all lovely, however some have better access than others.
Newquay is a town and has some good shopping facilities and eating places but it does get quite busy and parking can be difficult in the peak of the summer months.
There is a good walk through Newquay and out to the headlands which has beautiful views and you will see some wonderful bird species.
There are a number of other beaches in the area, all with great sandy beaches and really interesting rock faces and features. There is Bedruthan Steps, Constantine Bay, Crantock, Mawgan Porth, Again always look at tide times and do check on the facilities as not all are open all year round.
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Newquay
Newquay is a well known surfing beach and good for surfing and families. There are a couple of bays which are all lovely, however some have better access than others.
Newquay is a town and has some good shopping facilities and eating places but it does get quite busy and parking can be difficult in the peak of the summer months.
There is a good walk through Newquay and out to the headlands which has beautiful views and you will see some wonderful bird species.
There are a number of other beaches in the area, all with great sandy beaches and really interesting rock faces and features. There is Bedruthan Steps, Constantine Bay, Crantock, Mawgan Porth, Again always look at tide times and do check on the facilities as not all are open all year round.
Camelford is our closest town, which is fairly small but has everything that you will need. The town has a lot of history and during my time hear I have enjoyed finding out about its colourful past. There is a main car park on the main road, which is free for short stays in the 'Red Zone'. Camelford has a visitor centre on the main road which can give you lots of information about the area.
There is a small park off the main road (behind the band stand), which has a childrens play area, and a good walking path by the stream for a short stroll.
There is a Co-op and Spar for food shopping, however the BP (Londis) petrol station also has a reasonable selection of food. There is a DIY shop which is also our post office, a fruit and veg shop and a couple of boutique cloths shops .
For food, there are a couple of cafes but my personal favourite is the Pasty shop (which only does take away) but they do a 'andsome pasty'. There is a Chinese, kebab and fish and chip take away which are all good. There is also a pub and restaurant The Masons Arms, which has all the pub classic food, and is a bit quirky!
Just opposite the Cornish Maids, there is a small alleyway which leads to a footpath down to the river Camel, this is a lovely river walk but do be careful it can get a little muddy in the winter months. On a sunny day this is a lovely walk with the children or dogs as there are some fun areas they can play in the water.
Camelford isn't really a place for a long visit, but great to pick up essentials or for a little look around. The people are wonderfully friendly and are always very helpful.
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Camelford
Camelford is our closest town, which is fairly small but has everything that you will need. The town has a lot of history and during my time hear I have enjoyed finding out about its colourful past. There is a main car park on the main road, which is free for short stays in the 'Red Zone'. Camelford has a visitor centre on the main road which can give you lots of information about the area.
There is a small park off the main road (behind the band stand), which has a childrens play area, and a good walking path by the stream for a short stroll.
There is a Co-op and Spar for food shopping, however the BP (Londis) petrol station also has a reasonable selection of food. There is a DIY shop which is also our post office, a fruit and veg shop and a couple of boutique cloths shops .
For food, there are a couple of cafes but my personal favourite is the Pasty shop (which only does take away) but they do a 'andsome pasty'. There is a Chinese, kebab and fish and chip take away which are all good. There is also a pub and restaurant The Masons Arms, which has all the pub classic food, and is a bit quirky!
Just opposite the Cornish Maids, there is a small alleyway which leads to a footpath down to the river Camel, this is a lovely river walk but do be careful it can get a little muddy in the winter months. On a sunny day this is a lovely walk with the children or dogs as there are some fun areas they can play in the water.
Camelford isn't really a place for a long visit, but great to pick up essentials or for a little look around. The people are wonderfully friendly and are always very helpful.
Bude is a local town about 15 miles and an easy drive from Hallgarden.
This is a beach town and has all of the usual shops and eating places and a number of supermarkets.
Bude has a couple of good beaches, Summerleaze which is a popular surfing beach, or Crooklets Beach and Sandymouth Bay Beach are less busy.
The canal path is a great and easy walk into Bude, passing the castle (more like a folly with a cafe), craft area and then you can walk over the inlet bridge into the town shopping area.
Along the canal there area areas where many ducks and swans visit for being feed which is always a big hit with the younger children. Also you are able to hire pedalos , canoes or paddleboards.
Another favourite of ours is stopping for a coffee or lunch (also their breakfast is great!) at the Weir Cafe, this had a great view of a lake with lots of wildlife and good for chilling out along your walk!
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Bude
13 Lansdown RdBude is a local town about 15 miles and an easy drive from Hallgarden.
This is a beach town and has all of the usual shops and eating places and a number of supermarkets.
Bude has a couple of good beaches, Summerleaze which is a popular surfing beach, or Crooklets Beach and Sandymouth Bay Beach are less busy.
The canal path is a great and easy walk into Bude, passing the castle (more like a folly with a cafe), craft area and then you can walk over the inlet bridge into the town shopping area.
Along the canal there area areas where many ducks and swans visit for being feed which is always a big hit with the younger children. Also you are able to hire pedalos , canoes or paddleboards.
Another favourite of ours is stopping for a coffee or lunch (also their breakfast is great!) at the Weir Cafe, this had a great view of a lake with lots of wildlife and good for chilling out along your walk!
Wadebridge is a nice town with all the amenities you would expect, but it has some nice small boutique shops for craft, fashion and home wares. I always pick up something nice here, especially along Molesworth Street and the back streets. There are a number of nice eating places for both lunch and dinner.
You can walk one way to the river and along the river edge even going as far as Slaughterbridge which has a Trelwaney garden centre, or you can venture the other side of the town to the river which has the entrance to Camel Trail to Padstow. You can walk this, but its a fair 5 mile walk, much better on bikes! There are a number of places to hire them in town.
There are a number of parks in Wadebridge and if you fancy a wonderful view, it is worth going to Coronation Park, which is a bit of a hilly walk but great for pictures and you can walk down through a wooded area back into town.
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Wadebridge
Wadebridge is a nice town with all the amenities you would expect, but it has some nice small boutique shops for craft, fashion and home wares. I always pick up something nice here, especially along Molesworth Street and the back streets. There are a number of nice eating places for both lunch and dinner.
You can walk one way to the river and along the river edge even going as far as Slaughterbridge which has a Trelwaney garden centre, or you can venture the other side of the town to the river which has the entrance to Camel Trail to Padstow. You can walk this, but its a fair 5 mile walk, much better on bikes! There are a number of places to hire them in town.
There are a number of parks in Wadebridge and if you fancy a wonderful view, it is worth going to Coronation Park, which is a bit of a hilly walk but great for pictures and you can walk down through a wooded area back into town.
Port Isaac is a lovely little fishing village with the rugged North Cornwall coastline at its best.
There are a number of gift and art shops in Port Isaac with a few good pub and eating places. Its lovely to walk around the horseshoe harbour and take in the quaint village, however as with most of Cornwall, it is a fair uphill walk. On the far side is Doc Martins house from the series, but if you walk on past that and on the right there is a small footpath, this takes you along to some large open spaces to the top of the cliffs giving you fantastic views of the harbour. You can carry on and walk along the coastal path here, or just sit and take it all in. Even on a breezy or wet day the surroundings are awe inspiring and gives you a great sense of peace.
Port Isaac does get busy in the summer season, but it is usually quieter early morning or early evening, I'd avoid lunchtimes!
There are two main car parks, on on the sea front, that you drive down the main road through the newer part of the village, or at the top where you enter the village there are two larger car parks. All car parks get fairly busy but it is worth remembering that it is a fair walk from the top car parks and the way back to the car is all uphill!
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Port Isaac
Port Isaac is a lovely little fishing village with the rugged North Cornwall coastline at its best.
There are a number of gift and art shops in Port Isaac with a few good pub and eating places. Its lovely to walk around the horseshoe harbour and take in the quaint village, however as with most of Cornwall, it is a fair uphill walk. On the far side is Doc Martins house from the series, but if you walk on past that and on the right there is a small footpath, this takes you along to some large open spaces to the top of the cliffs giving you fantastic views of the harbour. You can carry on and walk along the coastal path here, or just sit and take it all in. Even on a breezy or wet day the surroundings are awe inspiring and gives you a great sense of peace.
Port Isaac does get busy in the summer season, but it is usually quieter early morning or early evening, I'd avoid lunchtimes!
There are two main car parks, on on the sea front, that you drive down the main road through the newer part of the village, or at the top where you enter the village there are two larger car parks. All car parks get fairly busy but it is worth remembering that it is a fair walk from the top car parks and the way back to the car is all uphill!
Padstow is a well known Cornish fishing village and very popular among tourists. Peak season usually means that the town is very busy but most importantly parking can be difficult. It is worth parking in one of the more out of town locations and having a short walk into the main part of town.
Most tourists don't walk to the lovely beach at Harbour Cove, it has lots of golden sand and is great for the family and not a long walk. So it is worth a visit and is nice after visiting the busy town. Harbour Cove looks across the Camel Estuary to Rock and Daymer Bay.
Rick Stein has a number of restaurants and shops in Padstow and has helped make the town popular. There is a harbour fish market with a few shops that is very popular and worth a visit. There is a car park here and if you can get a space it is very convenient.
There is a lobster hatchery in Padstow which is really interesting and great to see how they help the local lobster population.
Padstow is also the start/finish of the camel trail. Again if you are okay on a bike, this is definitely a good way to see Padstow and there are a number of good places to park and secure your bikes so you can explore. If you are hiring a bike always remember to ask for a padlock!
Padstow is also a great place to visit in the evening, even though the shops close there are some wonderful restaurants and bars. Nothing better than having a great meal and then walking along the harbour as the sun is setting.
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Padstow
Padstow is a well known Cornish fishing village and very popular among tourists. Peak season usually means that the town is very busy but most importantly parking can be difficult. It is worth parking in one of the more out of town locations and having a short walk into the main part of town.
Most tourists don't walk to the lovely beach at Harbour Cove, it has lots of golden sand and is great for the family and not a long walk. So it is worth a visit and is nice after visiting the busy town. Harbour Cove looks across the Camel Estuary to Rock and Daymer Bay.
Rick Stein has a number of restaurants and shops in Padstow and has helped make the town popular. There is a harbour fish market with a few shops that is very popular and worth a visit. There is a car park here and if you can get a space it is very convenient.
There is a lobster hatchery in Padstow which is really interesting and great to see how they help the local lobster population.
Padstow is also the start/finish of the camel trail. Again if you are okay on a bike, this is definitely a good way to see Padstow and there are a number of good places to park and secure your bikes so you can explore. If you are hiring a bike always remember to ask for a padlock!
Padstow is also a great place to visit in the evening, even though the shops close there are some wonderful restaurants and bars. Nothing better than having a great meal and then walking along the harbour as the sun is setting.
Tintagel is surrounded by the history of King Arthur and has many gift shops with such souvenirs. There is much history in the village, the old post office is such an old quaint building. Tintagel runs from camalot castle on the sea front up the main high street with shops and eating places, with more shops up past the museum. However I like the ruins of the castle by the bay and if you want you can walk over the bridge to the rock face where there are more ruins. (This is owned by the National Trust so there is a fee to walk over the bridge, but the rest of the site is free to walk around)
Whilst you are in this area, Bostcastle is only a short drive up the coastal Road, which is another village seeped in history and lovely buildings and whilst smaller than Tintagel, you can walk down the harbour which on a dry day is very pretty.
Tintagel or Boscastle are only a 15-20 minute drive from us.
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Tintagel
Tintagel is surrounded by the history of King Arthur and has many gift shops with such souvenirs. There is much history in the village, the old post office is such an old quaint building. Tintagel runs from camalot castle on the sea front up the main high street with shops and eating places, with more shops up past the museum. However I like the ruins of the castle by the bay and if you want you can walk over the bridge to the rock face where there are more ruins. (This is owned by the National Trust so there is a fee to walk over the bridge, but the rest of the site is free to walk around)
Whilst you are in this area, Bostcastle is only a short drive up the coastal Road, which is another village seeped in history and lovely buildings and whilst smaller than Tintagel, you can walk down the harbour which on a dry day is very pretty.
Tintagel or Boscastle are only a 15-20 minute drive from us.
Truro is a city in Cornwall with a good selection of shops if you want some retail therapy. There is a Cathedral, many eating places and a number of pretty areas to sit and relax. Truro is about an hour away from Otterham and there are a number of places you can visit on your drive.
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Truro
Truro is a city in Cornwall with a good selection of shops if you want some retail therapy. There is a Cathedral, many eating places and a number of pretty areas to sit and relax. Truro is about an hour away from Otterham and there are a number of places you can visit on your drive.
This is a lovely place to look around for part of the day. Only a small town but nice to walk around the harbour and some good gift shops and the bakery is really good. The harbour is owned by the National Trust and is kept beautifully. Just note it gets really busy in the prime summer months so worth doing in the morning if your in Cornwall during the school holidays.
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Boscastle Harbour
This is a lovely place to look around for part of the day. Only a small town but nice to walk around the harbour and some good gift shops and the bakery is really good. The harbour is owned by the National Trust and is kept beautifully. Just note it gets really busy in the prime summer months so worth doing in the morning if your in Cornwall during the school holidays.
Food scene
This is one of my favorite places for lunch or a cream tea. The cakes are amazing, but there is a great selection of hot food as well and all is delicious.
If it is nice enough to sit outside, I would highly recommend it as the views are breathtaking, but even sitting inside, with the large windows, you can see the beautiful coastline. (If sitting outside, be mindful in high summer that there are wasps about if you go for the cream tea!)
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Boscastle Farm Shop
This is one of my favorite places for lunch or a cream tea. The cakes are amazing, but there is a great selection of hot food as well and all is delicious.
If it is nice enough to sit outside, I would highly recommend it as the views are breathtaking, but even sitting inside, with the large windows, you can see the beautiful coastline. (If sitting outside, be mindful in high summer that there are wasps about if you go for the cream tea!)
Charlies is such a small and quaint cafe, but I love it. The owner is a lovely person who is so accommodating and serves wonderful food. My personal weakness is the savoury cream tea which has a lovely chutney and if I'm with a friend we go for one of each and share!
They have a small deli and all the favourite local food supplies.
The cafe is quite small but does have some outside space which is good for larger groups in the warmer months.
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Charlie's
Fore StreetCharlies is such a small and quaint cafe, but I love it. The owner is a lovely person who is so accommodating and serves wonderful food. My personal weakness is the savoury cream tea which has a lovely chutney and if I'm with a friend we go for one of each and share!
They have a small deli and all the favourite local food supplies.
The cafe is quite small but does have some outside space which is good for larger groups in the warmer months.
This cafe has great views over a lake near the canal path to Bude.
We often have a lovely breakfast here or get a coffee and cake after a walk. They are dog friendly inside and outside seating and are very family friendly. Sometimes they have a wigwam seating area with lights which is beautiful, especially if its getting a bit windy or wet out.
The Inside cafe has a lot of wildlife information and is great to keep younger children entertained while you sit back and relax, there is also a small play area for them well away from the lake.
If you go towards Bude, this is a good place to start of end!
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The Weir Bistro
This cafe has great views over a lake near the canal path to Bude.
We often have a lovely breakfast here or get a coffee and cake after a walk. They are dog friendly inside and outside seating and are very family friendly. Sometimes they have a wigwam seating area with lights which is beautiful, especially if its getting a bit windy or wet out.
The Inside cafe has a lot of wildlife information and is great to keep younger children entertained while you sit back and relax, there is also a small play area for them well away from the lake.
If you go towards Bude, this is a good place to start of end!
St Kew Inn has a great garden area and good sea5ing indoors. The food is really good and they cook on an open fire which makes it super special. We highly recommend this restaurant to eat but suggest you book online.
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St Kew Inn
St Kew Inn has a great garden area and good sea5ing indoors. The food is really good and they cook on an open fire which makes it super special. We highly recommend this restaurant to eat but suggest you book online.
This is a nice pub to eat in with sea views. The restaurant is fairly large and their Sunday roast is good but very popular!
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The Coombe Barton Inn
This is a nice pub to eat in with sea views. The restaurant is fairly large and their Sunday roast is good but very popular!
A great place for a wonderful cream tea. Huge scones and likely only need one between 2 people!
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The Wellington Hotel
Old RoadA great place for a wonderful cream tea. Huge scones and likely only need one between 2 people!
This restaurant has stunning views. Great for a meal or even just a drink or coffee. There is outside seating and a good number of inside table with a good choice in the menu.
Just note that this restaurant can get a bit busy and therefore the service can be a little slow.
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The Port William
Tintagel HeightsThis restaurant has stunning views. Great for a meal or even just a drink or coffee. There is outside seating and a good number of inside table with a good choice in the menu.
Just note that this restaurant can get a bit busy and therefore the service can be a little slow.
Don’t be put off that it’s on a campsite. The farm shop has so much to look around and the food is really good. The menu is great and they get all their produce locally. Definitely worth going for either their breakfast or fish and chips
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Cornish Coasts
Middle PenleanDon’t be put off that it’s on a campsite. The farm shop has so much to look around and the food is really good. The menu is great and they get all their produce locally. Definitely worth going for either their breakfast or fish and chips
A good place for food. Be careful turning off the A30 as it a tight left off a busy road. Worth a visit though their breakfast and Sunday roast are good. Also enjoy the gin tasting before or after your meal.
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Treguddick Manor
A good place for food. Be careful turning off the A30 as it a tight left off a busy road. Worth a visit though their breakfast and Sunday roast are good. Also enjoy the gin tasting before or after your meal.
Things to do
The Camel Trail is a great way to spend a day. Even if you haven't brought your bikes there are many hire places in the key points of Wadebridge, Bodmin or Wenford Bridge (By the Snail Pace Cafe).
The route from one end to the other is fairly long (Bodmin to Padstow) 17 miles. It has lots of points you can stop off for either refreshments or for a wander. You can walk or cycle along the trail and either are good, although in the peak of summer there are a lot of bikes.
This is a good way to see the various tourist spots and get some good food. I would recommend heading to one of the less know car parks to start as the towns can get a little busy. There are a number maps on the internet and I recommend you looking at these to plan you cycle/walk so you get to do what you want as time does run away with you, especially if you hire bikes.
The trail is generally fairly flat so good for novice bikers or the younger ones. There are only a couple of points that there is no trail and you have to use a road, the main one is Wadebridge, you enter the town from the east end and have to go through the town to get to the west side of the camel trail if you are heading towards Padstow. Not ideal with younger children, but there are paths so you can walk your bikes this part of the route.
This is a great day out and well worth doing if you like exercise and getting around.
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Camel Trail (Cycle Way)
The Camel Trail is a great way to spend a day. Even if you haven't brought your bikes there are many hire places in the key points of Wadebridge, Bodmin or Wenford Bridge (By the Snail Pace Cafe).
The route from one end to the other is fairly long (Bodmin to Padstow) 17 miles. It has lots of points you can stop off for either refreshments or for a wander. You can walk or cycle along the trail and either are good, although in the peak of summer there are a lot of bikes.
This is a good way to see the various tourist spots and get some good food. I would recommend heading to one of the less know car parks to start as the towns can get a little busy. There are a number maps on the internet and I recommend you looking at these to plan you cycle/walk so you get to do what you want as time does run away with you, especially if you hire bikes.
The trail is generally fairly flat so good for novice bikers or the younger ones. There are only a couple of points that there is no trail and you have to use a road, the main one is Wadebridge, you enter the town from the east end and have to go through the town to get to the west side of the camel trail if you are heading towards Padstow. Not ideal with younger children, but there are paths so you can walk your bikes this part of the route.
This is a great day out and well worth doing if you like exercise and getting around.
I have not been here, but know people with children that have and they have given it good reviews.
A good place to visit with children for their adventure fun and it is this side of Wadebridge so not far at all to get to.
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Camel Creek Adventure Park
I have not been here, but know people with children that have and they have given it good reviews.
A good place to visit with children for their adventure fun and it is this side of Wadebridge so not far at all to get to.
This is a great place to take the children it has a lot of history on King Arthur and some believe is the site of Camelot and King Arthurs stone. It is set in the Vale of Avalon so lovely views and great to walk around.
The centre has the exhibition and legend, the stone and a secret garden with a trail. So lots to do and great for families.
This is only 5 miles from us and easy to get to with good parking.
The Arthurian Centre
Slaughter BridgeThis is a great place to take the children it has a lot of history on King Arthur and some believe is the site of Camelot and King Arthurs stone. It is set in the Vale of Avalon so lovely views and great to walk around.
The centre has the exhibition and legend, the stone and a secret garden with a trail. So lots to do and great for families.
This is only 5 miles from us and easy to get to with good parking.
St Nectans Glen is a really beautiful area within some woodland where there are several waterfalls that you can get close to for some wonderful photos. It is about a 20 minute drive from us, not far from Bostcastle.
The waterfalls are on private land and you will need to pay at a small gift shop for entry to the waterfalls. They use the funds to maintain the area and ensure it is safe for visitors each year. The parking area is on the coast side of the main road, you then have a fair walk to the area. You will go up a private road between a couple of houses and then follow the road on the right for about 10 minutes. You will then see an entrance to a woodland where you will follow the path, please be careful as you will need to step up a number of rock steps, so this is not for anyone with mobility difficulties unfortunately. When you make it to the top, there is a lovely cafe with some good outside space and on the right is the shop where you can gain entrance to the waterfalls.
The last waterfall you see on your visit allows to to get really close and walk in the stream at the bottom which is really special. For this reason I recommend waterproof boots or wellies, but not to worry if you haven't brought them you can borrow a pair in the shop. If its a lovely hot day, not to worry, be careful and go barefoot!
The waterfalls have a spiritual feel to them, my wonderful niece was proposed to here, which makes it even more special for our family.
Even if you don't fancy paying for seeing the waterfalls, this woodland is great to walk around, its not a large area but its good for dogs and children to have fun around the stream running through it. You can cross the water and walk up to some fields, again with some stunning views out to the coast. You can still use the cafe and toilet area if you just walk in the woods.
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St. Nectan's Glen
Fore StreetSt Nectans Glen is a really beautiful area within some woodland where there are several waterfalls that you can get close to for some wonderful photos. It is about a 20 minute drive from us, not far from Bostcastle.
The waterfalls are on private land and you will need to pay at a small gift shop for entry to the waterfalls. They use the funds to maintain the area and ensure it is safe for visitors each year. The parking area is on the coast side of the main road, you then have a fair walk to the area. You will go up a private road between a couple of houses and then follow the road on the right for about 10 minutes. You will then see an entrance to a woodland where you will follow the path, please be careful as you will need to step up a number of rock steps, so this is not for anyone with mobility difficulties unfortunately. When you make it to the top, there is a lovely cafe with some good outside space and on the right is the shop where you can gain entrance to the waterfalls.
The last waterfall you see on your visit allows to to get really close and walk in the stream at the bottom which is really special. For this reason I recommend waterproof boots or wellies, but not to worry if you haven't brought them you can borrow a pair in the shop. If its a lovely hot day, not to worry, be careful and go barefoot!
The waterfalls have a spiritual feel to them, my wonderful niece was proposed to here, which makes it even more special for our family.
Even if you don't fancy paying for seeing the waterfalls, this woodland is great to walk around, its not a large area but its good for dogs and children to have fun around the stream running through it. You can cross the water and walk up to some fields, again with some stunning views out to the coast. You can still use the cafe and toilet area if you just walk in the woods.
Lanhydrock is a national trust property and you need to pay to go into the house, however the grounds are large and you are able to enjoy them without an entrance fee.
On the road as you drive to Lanhydrock car park you are able to go right which takes you to the formal gardens and main house. It is a lovely property and you can read a lot about the history of the property and how it has been used over its life.
On the left of the entrance road, is the car park with a nice cafe, toilets and a couple of small shops, that sell mostly plants. Behind the cafe is a wooded area with a number of walks and is great for biking. Apart from the car park fee, all these facilities are free to use.
You can cycle to Lanhydrock from Bodmin, it is fairly quiet but you do have to use some footpaths at some point, but you go through woods and Bodmin park, but it is not suitable for young children as there are a number of climbs and it is more challenging than the flat paths of the camel trail.
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Lanhydrock
Lanhydrock is a national trust property and you need to pay to go into the house, however the grounds are large and you are able to enjoy them without an entrance fee.
On the road as you drive to Lanhydrock car park you are able to go right which takes you to the formal gardens and main house. It is a lovely property and you can read a lot about the history of the property and how it has been used over its life.
On the left of the entrance road, is the car park with a nice cafe, toilets and a couple of small shops, that sell mostly plants. Behind the cafe is a wooded area with a number of walks and is great for biking. Apart from the car park fee, all these facilities are free to use.
You can cycle to Lanhydrock from Bodmin, it is fairly quiet but you do have to use some footpaths at some point, but you go through woods and Bodmin park, but it is not suitable for young children as there are a number of climbs and it is more challenging than the flat paths of the camel trail.
This is a great place for all to visit. There is a zip wire, aqua park, karting and many other fun activities. This isn't just for children, its great for adults too as there is so much to try here.
Adrenalin Quarry is only a 45 minute drive from us and a great day out. I do think booking in advance is advisable.
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Adrenalin Quarry
Lower Clicker RoadThis is a great place for all to visit. There is a zip wire, aqua park, karting and many other fun activities. This isn't just for children, its great for adults too as there is so much to try here.
Adrenalin Quarry is only a 45 minute drive from us and a great day out. I do think booking in advance is advisable.
Bodmin jail had a lot of dark history and has been made into an attraction with modern technology. It isn’t too gruesome but it is not recommended for children under 4. If you like it darker they do different tours for the darker history of the jail and area.
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Bodmin-gevangenis
Berrycoombe RoadBodmin jail had a lot of dark history and has been made into an attraction with modern technology. It isn’t too gruesome but it is not recommended for children under 4. If you like it darker they do different tours for the darker history of the jail and area.
If it’s a wet day then why not try a museum. It’s free and only about 20 minutes away. It’s free admission and in Launceston. Whilst your there have a look at the local events guide to see what’s on in Launceston as there are often events and street entertainment in the summer and Easter periods.
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Lawrence House Museum
9 Castle StIf it’s a wet day then why not try a museum. It’s free and only about 20 minutes away. It’s free admission and in Launceston. Whilst your there have a look at the local events guide to see what’s on in Launceston as there are often events and street entertainment in the summer and Easter periods.
This is a great place to go with children. Lots to do and many puzzles and mysteries to unravel. Good walks, a lovely play area and good to take a picnic.
Recommend booking in advance in the busy times.
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Verborgen Vallei
This is a great place to go with children. Lots to do and many puzzles and mysteries to unravel. Good walks, a lovely play area and good to take a picnic.
Recommend booking in advance in the busy times.
A great place for a good walk or space for children to run around. There is a house to view if you fancy it and a good picnic area. There’s a nice little cafe with light bites and a little gift shop.
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Pencarrow House and Gardens
A great place for a good walk or space for children to run around. There is a house to view if you fancy it and a good picnic area. There’s a nice little cafe with light bites and a little gift shop.
This is a lovely lake and place for a walk. There is a cafe open from spring to the start of winter. The toilet facilities are open all year.
In the summer there is water activities and is a great day out. Take a picnic and enjoy this beautiful lake.
This lake is also used as a Park Run on a Saturday morning if you fancy a bit of exercise!
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Tamar Lakes Watersports
Upper Tamar LakeThis is a lovely lake and place for a walk. There is a cafe open from spring to the start of winter. The toilet facilities are open all year.
In the summer there is water activities and is a great day out. Take a picnic and enjoy this beautiful lake.
This lake is also used as a Park Run on a Saturday morning if you fancy a bit of exercise!
Other Places in Cornwall
Looe is another fishing village, with very quaint streets and a number of things to do with your family. Whilst it is a little further from us here in Otterham, it is a lovely drive and a nice trip to the South Coast.
There is a beach here, many places to eat, shops to browse and a nice walk around the harbour. Again this town can get busy in the summer months and we tend to park on the coastal road as you drive through Looe and take a left after the bridge. It is a bit tight, but again, nice to walk back into Looe part of the way by the sea.
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Looe
Looe is another fishing village, with very quaint streets and a number of things to do with your family. Whilst it is a little further from us here in Otterham, it is a lovely drive and a nice trip to the South Coast.
There is a beach here, many places to eat, shops to browse and a nice walk around the harbour. Again this town can get busy in the summer months and we tend to park on the coastal road as you drive through Looe and take a left after the bridge. It is a bit tight, but again, nice to walk back into Looe part of the way by the sea.
St Michaels Mount is about an hour and a half drive from us in Otterham, but is a wonderful place to visit. There is a lovely beach here and when the tide is out you can walk across a 'hidden path' over to the house on the hill. You can always get a boat to or back from the island but walking the path at least one way is definitely recommended.
While you are in the area, Penzance is just a short drive away and a quaint fishing village. There are a number of places to visit here and this side of Cornwall is as stunning as the other places recommended.
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Saint Michael's Mount
St Michaels Mount is about an hour and a half drive from us in Otterham, but is a wonderful place to visit. There is a lovely beach here and when the tide is out you can walk across a 'hidden path' over to the house on the hill. You can always get a boat to or back from the island but walking the path at least one way is definitely recommended.
While you are in the area, Penzance is just a short drive away and a quaint fishing village. There are a number of places to visit here and this side of Cornwall is as stunning as the other places recommended.