What’s on August 2021| Cornwall Guide

August 02nd, 2021

With dozens of fabulous events taking place across the county, this August may just be the best time to go on your family-friendly holiday in Cornwall.

From live music festivals to spectacular displays of modern art and dance, we take a look at some of the best events taking place in Cornwall this August, so you don’t miss out!

Falmouth Week

6 – 15 Aug

What started as a local sailing regatta in 1837 has since evolved into an amazing week full of events for all the family to enjoy!

Falmouth Week has been drawing in visitors from across the UK thanks to its fantastic activities right in the heart of Falmouth. With live music, sailing races, an eclectic market and even a carnival complete with a demonstration by the iconic Red Arrows, there’s truly something for everyone at Falmouth Week!

Drive-in Summer Cinema

16 Jul – 5 Sep

If you’re looking for a fun attraction that all the family can enjoy, then look no further than the Drive-In Summer Cinema at Watergate Bay in Newquay. With giant LED screens overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, you can experience some of your favourite films such as The Goonies, Moana, Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean (to name a few) in a whole new light!

Showings take place every Thursday through Sunday at 12 pm and 6.45 pm. Plus, there’s the special Sunday Summer Singalongs where you and the family can rock out in the comfort of your own car to hits from The Greatest Showman, Grease and Mamma Mia.

Spectacular Summer Season at Flambards

4 Aug – 25 Aug

Make the most of your family holiday in Cornwall by coming along to one of the wonderful events hosted at Flambards Theme Park in Helston.

The park itself is open throughout the day for hours worth of family fun, but everything changes when the sun goes down. Every Monday and Wednesday this August, Flambards is offering guests an evening they’ll never forget. With after-dark rides, spectacular firework displays and live music from local Cornish artists – a visit to Flambards is a must this August.

Summer of Celebration at the Eden Project

Various

This summer, the Eden Project becomes the backdrop for a whole range of performances from parkour to storytelling to dancing, all inspired by Eden’s unique setting.

With carnivals, jazz performances and a whole host of other performances on offer, there’s never been a better time to visit the Eden Project. Some of the most notable performances are:

• Emergent Ensemble (9th – 13th August)
• Mandinga Arts’ Carnival (16th – 20th August)
• UPG’s Beyond The Strandline (23rd – 27th August)

The summer celebration has been running since March of this year and doesn’t wrap up until early September. This means there’s plenty of time for you to catch one of these fantastic performances during your trip to Cornwall.

We hope you make the most of your Cornish holiday this August by visiting one or more of these fantastic events! It’s not too late to book! Browse our range of family-friendly cottages available in Cornwall.

Image Credit: Visit Cornwall

5 Activities For Thrill-Seekers in Cornwall

July 20th, 2021

When you think about a trip to Cornwall, your first thoughts may be of a peaceful stroll by the beach with an ice cream in hand. While you’ll certainly find plenty of opportunities to relax by golden sands, there are also numerous activities and exciting places to visit for those that prefer a more active adventure.

To entice all the thrill seekers, we’ve compiled a list of our five favourite adrenaline-packed activities that you can find in Cornwall.

If you can’t wait to start the adventure, take a look at our luxury cottages in Cornwall to find the perfect place to stay and relax between each action-packed day.

Adrenalin Quarry

Based in Liskeard, Adrenalin Quarry has a diverse range of activities bound to get your adrenaline pumping!

When Adrenalin Quarry proudly states they’ve been ‘throwing people off cliffs since 2009’, that’s what they mean. Get a thrill from the main attraction, a 490m long zip wire that crosses the old flooded quarry.

If that’s not scary enough, you can also take a dramatic plunge from the quarry’s cliffs over the water in a giant swing, big enough to hold three people and reaching 170ft above the water.

Once you’ve exhausted all the cliff-jumping opportunities, you can also take to the Aquapark, a Wipeout-style inflatable playground filled with giant slides, trampolines and climbing walls. The 800m go-kart race track also offers endless fun as you compete for the top spot. For something a little different, you can also have a go at axe throwing, releasing your inner warrior.

Coasteering

With more than 400 miles of coastline, Cornwall gives you plenty of chances to have fun with coasteering.

This activity is all about exploring the coastline, scrambling over rocks, jumping from rocky heights and swimming in the waves below. Coasteering gives you the chance to get up close to sea cliffs, discovering the secrets of the coastline in a more exciting way than walking.

It’s important to be mindful that this activity is not without its risks, and you should always take part in this activity with the support of a dedicated business that provides guides, equipment and professional safety procedures.

There are various coasteering centres across Cornwall, including:

• Newquay Activity Centre
• Kernow Coasteering
• Cornish Rock Tors
• Lizard Adventure
• Cornish Wave Surf & Adventure

The Eden Project’s Skywire

While the Eden Project is most famous for its incredible biomes, seeing a giant rainforest packed inside a massive bubble in England isn’t the only exciting thing to do there.

For the uninitiated, the Eden project is not only home to some amazing greenery, but also boasts England’s longest and fastest zip wire.

Make your way 100m above the ground and strap into the special flight suit before zipping 660m through the air at 60mph.

For even more exhilarating experiences at the Eden Project, you’ll also find an aerial obstacle course, the giant swing, leap of faith and base jump – a dream turned reality for true adrenaline-junkies!

For a deeper dive into the Eden Project and everything it has to offer, take a look at our blog below:

Surfing

There’s no way we could write this list without mentioning surfing! This activity is often a main driving force behind many people’s trips to Cornwall, with people flocking to all of the glorious Cornish beaches for a chance to surf the waves.

With numerous surf schools located all around the coast, you certainly won’t be short on teachers and places to rent a board if you’re new to the experience. Fans of surfing will need no introduction to the beaches of Cornwall, as it is certainly one of the best spots in the UK to get out on a board.

Some great surf schools to help you get to grips with the sport include:

• Harlyn Surf School, Padstow
• Escape Surf School, Newquay
• Fistral Beach Surf School, Newquay
• Ticket to Ride Surf School, Perranporth
• Smart Surf School, Sennen Cove

Zorbing

Rolling downhill at great speeds in a giant inflatable ball will certainly help you see Cornwall from a new perspective.

With its expansive rolling hills and stunning scenery, Cornwall is the perfect spot for this action-packed activity, whether you’ve had a go before or have always wanted to try it.

This is a great activity to turn to when the sea and sky are too calm to catch some waves – come rain or shine, zorbing is a great all-weather activity for all the family.

There are several zorbing activity centres around the coast, including Cornwall Zorbing in Newquay and ZorBude in Bude.

Have we awoken the thrill-seeker within you? There are plenty of great adventures to be had all across Cornwall!

When you’ve had your fill of action and thrills, our Cornish cottages here at The Valley provide the perfect place for some much-needed relaxation and recovery.

Image Credit: Visit Cornwall

Cycle Trails in Cornwall

May 07th, 2020

Cornwall is a beautiful part of the UK, and a brilliant way to explore the glorious Cornish countryside is to cycle along its many trails! You can immerse yourself in the greenery and discover some local towns and villages during your trips.

Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, old or young, here is a list of some excellent cycling trails to visit when on holiday in Cornwall that you can ride along either alone, with family or friends.

Mineral Tramways Trails: Great Flat Lode Trail

The Mineral Tramways Trails are traffic-free routes based alongside the old transport network of the 19th-century mining era. It is 37.5 miles long and offers the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful countryside while also discovering the mining heritage.

The Great Flat Lode Trail circles the hill of Carn Brea behind Camborne and Redruth. It is situated amongst the mines that worked the Great Flat Lode! So, you can get in some exercise, enjoy stunning views and you can learn all about some of Cornwall’s finest old mine workings.

The Camel Trail

A route that is perfect for all abilities and ages, the Camel Trail is an 18-mile long, surfaced and mostly level trail. Parts of the route runs alongside a disused railway line, and while travelling the route, you will capture some of the most beautiful scenery in Cornwall.

The trail is suitable for walkers, horse-riders and wheel-chairs users, as well as cyclists, so be aware of any traffic that may occur during your cycle. The trail falls into three routes:

• Padstow to Wadebridge: 5.5 miles
• Wadebridge to Bodmin: 5.75 miles
• Bodmin to Wenfordbridge: 6.25 miles

If you don’t have your own bike, then you can hire bikes at Padstow, Bodmin, Wadebridge and Wenfordbridge. Toilets are also located Wadebridge alongside the trail, Wendfordbridge, and in Padstow town centre.

The Cornish Way

Perhaps one of the most well-known routes in Cornwall is the Cornish Way. It is a mighty trail as it runs from Land’s End all the way to Bude and consists of 195 miles!

Along the route, you will come across some beautiful beaches, stunning seaside towns and wonderful wildlife. It is great because you can pick a part of the route you wish to cycle that is nearest to you.

A beautiful part of the trail is where it runs along the coast until you reach Marazion. You can enjoy spectacular coastal views along with a sea breeze. At Marazion, you could stop for a refreshment and then head inland towards Hayle Estuary and Camborne.

Bodmin Beast Cycle Trail

For those looking for more of an adventurous ride, the Bodmin Beast Cycle Trail could be the perfect option. The trail is 12km and stretches through the wooded slopes of the Cardinham Valley. Along the route, you will be faced with some challenging climbs and descents, as well as some tight corners, steps, tabletops and rollers.

Clay Trails: Bugle to Eden Trail

There are Clay Trails dotted around St Austell and offer some unique views. The China Clay industry was situated in this area for over 300 years, and it left a fascinating stamp on the land. What were once clay pits are now turquoise lakes and former spoil heaps are now miniature mountains.

The trail that runs from Bugle to Eden is four miles and is a fairly easy trail, making it perfect for all ages and abilities. Once you arrive at the Eden Project, why not head inside and explore?

If you are interested in visiting one or more of these cycle trails, why not stay in Truro; a town that is well located among these routes making each cycle path easy to access. We have a range of hot tub cottages in Cornwall to add some much-needed luxury to your trip to the Cornish countryside!

You Might Also Be Interested In:

What to Pack for A Holiday to Cornwall

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May Half Term Activities in Cornwall

May 11th, 2018

From the 26th May to 3rd June families will be off for the May half-term. Here are some of the exciting family-friendly activities taking place over the week near us here at The Valley!

Invisible Worlds at the Eden Project 26th May – 3rd June

The May half-term week coincides with the launch of the Eden Project’s latest exhibition; Invisible Worlds. The focus of this new project is that which is beyond our perception, be it too big, too small, too far away, or too speedy! With hands-on interactive elements, including experiments, it is sure to both educate and entertain. One of the many interactive exhibits teaches all about the microbes that make us who we are, while the outdoor Rock Garden introduces us to the biology of geology! The Play Lab can also be found here, with a fascinating play zone set up for the kids; or the young at heart!

 

To celebrate the launch, a number of special activities and events will be running throughout the week. Join the Ministry of Science each day at 11am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm or 3.15pm for an exciting, hands-on science show with awe-inspiring experiments and fascinating facts. Get crafty in the craft corner, making a microbe masterpiece, or follow ‘The Good, The Bad and The Ugly’ microbe themed trail throughout the grounds of the Eden Project to find out more.

 

Bug & Butterfly Quest and Dinosaur Trail at Paradise Park, 26^th May – 3^rd June

Paradise Park is offering up two exciting activities for the kids over half-term. As well as their daily activities, such as otter feeding, penguin feeding and bird displays, Paradise Park are running quests and trails for fans of creepy crawlies and dinosaurs! Learn all about beautiful butterflies and bugs as you search for clues around the Park to complete the ‘Bug & Butterfly Quest’. Little ones who complete the questions can claim a tasty butterfly or bug themed chocolatey reward!

 

Half-term also sees the start of the summer Dinosaur Trail at Paradise Park. Go on a dinosaur hunting expedition and search the grounds for dinos. If you manage to answer some questions, then you may even become a ‘Paradise Park Professor of Palaeontology’, earning yourself a certificate and tiny model dinosaur to take home!

 

Circus Skills at Flambards, 26^th May – 3^rd June

Run away to the circus for the day this May half-term, with circus-themed fun taking place at Flambards. The ‘Circus Skills Week’ sees impressive shows each day from acrobats, clowns and jugglers, who are also offering up special workshop sessions. The workshops will be teaching visitors the tricks of the trade, such as unicycling, juggling, tightrope walking and plate spinning! The scarier tricks, such as juggling with knives and lying on a bed of nails will be left to the professional performancers though!

 

 

Heligan Wild Week at The Lost Gardens of Heligan, 26^th May – 3^rd June

Discover your wild side at Heligan’s Wild Week, where getting mucky to explore the outdoors is encouraged! Start your journey at the Wild Tribe Yurt, making a tribal headdress and painting your own face to join one of the wild tribes; owl, fox, butterfly or frog! Head to the gigantic outdoor assault course and test out your animal powers – you’ll need to leap, scrabble and balance to get across! Create a song at the musical workshop, and join the Wild Sing-along around the campfire at the end of the day, where you can also toast a marshmallow or two! These activities are included in the general admission price for the gardens.

 

Clash of the Knights at Pendennis Castle, 30^th – 31^st May

A contest of strength and skill is coming to Pendennis Castle this half-term, as four teams of brave knights attempt to battle it out for ultimate victory! This all-action event sees these valiant knights armed with only a club and shield meeting head-on in combat. The goal of this adrenaline-fuelled contest is to knock the crest off the helmet of each knights rival. As the day progresses, the knights will also turn to horseback showdowns, before the ultimate winner is declared victorious! Suitable for all ages, there will also be a jester and minstrels merrily entertaining the crowds. Young knight hopefuls can also test out their skills with a fun archery session. This event takes place between 11am and 5pm.

 

If you would like to experience some of these fun half-term activities in Cornwall, then why not come and spend the week at our child-friendly Cornwall cottages!?

 

18 Things to Do in Cornwall in 2018

May 02nd, 2018

Somehow we’re now in the fifth month of the year, so now may be the perfect time to look back on your 2018 bucket list and think of what you still have left to do! With summer fast approaching, we’re re-sharing our top 18 things to do in Cornwall in 2018, in the hopes that it will inspire you to come and visit us here in the most beautiful coastal county! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday to Cornwall, short breaks for two, or a luxury trip away with friends, there’s something for everyone:

 

1. Minack Theatre

A stage like no other, the Minack is an open air theatre nestled into the cliff tops in Porthcurno. With breathtaking views of the surrounding bay, you’ll be in awe as you make your way down the staggered seating steps, carved into the granite cliffs. With performances running from May to September, it’s certainly a must see.

2. Surf Lesson

Cornwall is one of the top surfing destinations in the world, so if you’re heading to the county for your holiday, remember to bring a wetsuit and try and catch some waves. If you don’t know how yet, then it’s time to get a lesson. While there are surf schools all along the coast, by far the greatest surfing spot is on Fistral beach, where all of the top surfing competitions take place in the UK.

3. Walk the Coast Path

Obviously it’s too ambitious to attempt the whole 300 mile stretch at once, but there are plenty of different walks available around the county. Get a map of Cornwall and mark off which paths you’ve walked as you do them. Maybe by the end of the year, your map will be complete!

4. Bude Sea Pool

Want the natural feel of swimming in the sea without as many risks? Try the Sea Pool in Bude. The free to use pool is semi-natural, built in the 1930s underneath the cliffs to form the experience of being in the sea, without having to face the ferocity of the waves.

5. Take Part in a Feast Night at The Hidden Hut

By day a quaint sea-side lunch spot, by night (on selected evenings), a rustic open-air feast extraganza. Buy a ticket and bring your own plate to receive a serving of the best local produce cooked outdoors on their wood-fire, charcoal grill or massive paella pans. Previous offerings have included wood-fired seafood paella, lobster & chips, slow-roasted lamb, and pulled pork with sticky ribs.

6. Experience the Waterfalls at St Nectans Glen

St. Nectan’s Glen is home to three truly spectacular waterfalls. The most famous of these is the magical St. Nectan’s Kieve, where the river has worn it’s way through the slate, creating a fascinating hole which has transformed the river into a magnificent 50 foot waterfall! Walkways through the stunning woodland take you to a further two waterfalls, one of which is a hidden gem, only recently discovered and opened to the public!

7. St. Michael’s Mount

It is one of the most famous landmarks in Cornwall for a reason. From the island you can experience the picturesque panoramic views of the bay, and to Land’s End. While you’re there, explore the spectacular castle and the luscious gardens, as well as the stunning harbour.

8. Bodmin Jail

Discover the history of this 18th Century jail with thrilling tours and activities. If you’re brave, there are after dark activities, like taking part in the night time ghost walks. If that’s not enough spookiness for you, every Thursday a scary movie is screened in the jail, followed by a tour through the historic building accompanied by a Medium.

9. Tate St. Ives

A gallery space featuring work by modern British artists with links to St. Ives. As part of the Tate art institution, the collection here is impressive and exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.

 

10. Barbara Hepworth

Another spot in St. Ives for those interested in art, the Barbara Hepworth museum, set within the sculptor and artists home and gardens, is a stunning sight that absolutely must feature on your Cornwall bucket list. This is perfect for garden lovers too, as you will quickly see where Hepworth gained her inspiration as you stroll through the gardens accompanying her studio.

11. Camel Valley Vineyard

Is there a better way to spend an afternoon in the sun than at an award-winning vineyard that serves up top-quality wines? With guided tours and wine tasting sessions, you’ll learn all about the grape growing and winery processes, with the added bonus of a refreshing glass of red, white or bubbly!

12. Rick Stein Cookery Course

Pick up some top tips and hone your kitchen skills with the very best. With daytime courses running for a wide variety of cuisines, from shellfish to Indian Curry and from Italian to Far Eastern dishes, there’s certainly something for everyone to enjoy! Alternatively, if you just fancy a treat on your holiday, then grab a delicious portion of fish and chips from Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips in Padstow.

13. Eat a Proper Cornish Pasty

Yes, you can get a pasty from pretty much any bakery around the country. But will it be as good as a traditional Cornish bake, fresh out of the oven? No!

14. Visit the Eden Project

Home to the largest indoor rainforest, this will be an educational day out like never before. For an even more intensive experience, or for something new for repeat visitors; head up high and soar over the biomes on the 60mph SkyWire!

15. Visit Land’s End

With stunning views and an incredible coastline, Land’s End is the perfect spot to roam the cliff tops. Take your camera to keep some memories of the picturesque scenery on display. Looking into the sea surrounding you, it’s even possible to catch a glimpse of exciting marine life, such as seals, dolphins and even basking sharks!

16. Catch Your Own Supper

Being a coastal county, with almost every area surrounded by water, it is no surprise that fishing and sea food make up a major part of the Cornish life. Why not join in on a fishing trip at any of Cornwall’s harbours and reel in a bite for dinner?

17. Visit a National Trust Property

The National Trust currently manages and maintains over 40% of the Cornish coastline, but they also tend to a large number of the finest properties in Cornwall. There are so many to choose from, including the stunning Cotehele House and Lanhydrock House.

18. Explore the Cornish Mining Heritage

Cornwall is renowned for its mining heritage, with many sites to visit, explore and learn about throughout the county. From Poldark Mine, featuring a museum and tour to the Levant Mine, near Land’s End, which houses the oldest beam engine in Cornwall; now in full working order having been restored in recent years.

 

Which of these things would you like to try? Let us know which feature on your 2018 bucket list, or if there any attractions in Cornwall that you are planning to visit that we haven’t included!

Easter Egg Hunts in Cornwall 2018

March 19th, 2018

While it may still be snowy outside, Easter is on its way very soon! If you’re thinking of taking a family trip to Cornwall over the holidays then going on a hunt for some chocolate eggs while you are there is an absolute must! To help you on your way to a truly egg-citing time, we have compiled some of the best Easter egg related activities on offer in Cornwall this year!

 

Paradise Park

A lovely family day out is on offer here from Paradise Park, with excitement for all the family. Primarily a wildlife sanctuary, the park has a number of species, including red pandas, penguins, donkeys and otters, as well as a vast number of different birds. With plenty of play spaces and gorgeous gardens to explore, there is so much to do here. Join the Easter Egg Hunt from the 30^th March to 15^th April and start your search for the clues along the trail. If you discover the answers, then there could be some mini chocolatey egg treats heading your way! There won’t just be chocolate eggs here though, as the tiny spring hatchlings are popping out at the moment and cheeping their way into springtime!

 

Cadbury Egg Hunt at Trelissick

From the 30^th March to 15^th April, the Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt is heading to Trelissick. Grab a trail sheet as you enter the gardens and go in search of the clues hidden in nature. As well as gaining a chocolate egg, this hunt will give you the chance to enjoy all of the gorgeous spring blooms that are bursting into life around the Trelissick gardens.

 

Eden Project

Egg hunts are an Easter holiday staple, and the Eden Project certainly hasn’t disappointed! Go searching for the golden eggs hidden throughout the grounds at Eden as part of their Easter holiday eggstravaganza. Also on offer is the incredible spring maze and the giant plant-themed inflatable challenge, making for an action-packed family day out.

 

Flambards

Easter Sunday sees Ferdi the Flambards Fox lead the way for the Big Easter Egg Quiz Trail. The park’s mascot will help you to find and follow the clues to discover the chocolate egg treats waiting for the successful Easter explorers! Flambards will be open throughout the Easter holiday for you to enjoy all of the rides, entertainment and attractions that they have to offer. As well as the Easter egg hunt, there will be an ‘Explosive Easter’ event, bringing some science to the park. Running from the 31^st of March to April 8^th, a number of exciting experiments will be exploding in the lab, and young scientists are encouraged to have a go at making their own gunge!

 

Tintagel Castle

Calling all brave adventurers! Dragon eggs are missing in King Arthur’s castle, and your help is needed to locate them! Accept the quest, and you’ll be on the hunt for some clues that may well lead you to a chocolatey reward!

 

Victoria Gardens

Each year Truro City Council hosts an Easter Egg Hunt for all children under 12 at the Victoria Gardens. With three age group categories for clues, each child who solves the puzzles will receive a free Crème Egg, as well as being entered into a prize draw for the coveted big Easter eggs. Following the chocolatey challenge, there will be a free bouncy castle, as well as refreshments. The egg hunt will commence at 9.30am on Saturday March 31^st.

 

To make your getaway even sweeter than these chocolate eggs, we are currently offering 30% off Easter holidays when booked online! Take a look at our child-friendly cottages in Cornwall to get you started with the Easter fun!

 

 

Cornish Pasty Week

February 19th, 2018

When asked to think of Cornwall, it surely won’t be long until the iconic and beloved Cornish pasty comes to mind. As such a staple of Cornish life, it only seems right that the pasty has been awarded its own celebratory week this year, with the first ever ‘Cornish Pasty Week’ kicking off on Sunday 25th February. Beginning on Sunday, a whole week of pasty related activities will be taking place, ending in the ‘Oggy Oscars’, the World Pasty Championship, held at the Eden Project on the 3rd of March.

The events, hosted by the Cornish Pasty Association, so far include pasty-making sessions, with essential crimping techniques being taught in local community groups and schools, as well as pasty themed pub quizzes and kids craft workshops! In the spirit of the week, many pasty shops around the county will be offering discounts and deals, ensuring you get the most pasties you possibly can out of pasty week!

Culminating in the World Pasty Championship at the end of the week-long pasty festivities, keen bakers are in with a chance of winning the ‘Pasty Pageant’ with their Cornish bakes. Registration for entering the competition is still open until midday on the 1st March, so it is not too late if you wanted to try your hand at competitive pasty making. Don’t worry if your pasty skills aren’t quite perfect though, as there are several categories available to enter.

There are four skill level categories, company (such as bakeries), professional (those working as a professional cook or caterer), amateur (over-16s not working as a professional cook), and junior (those under 15). These skill categories are then each split into two sections, one for those producing Cornish pasties, made following a traditional recipe, and one for pasties made using more unconventional ingredients, or that have been made outside of Cornwall. There is a Protected Geographical Indication on Cornish pasties, meaning that only those baked within Cornwall, using a traditional recipe, can actually be considered Cornish pasties! As such, the winner of last years ‘professional’ Cornish pasty category, who came from Canada, had to travel to Cornwall to bake his entry in order to legally class his pasty as Cornish.

If you want to enter the competition, you must bake two identical pasties; one for the judges to try, and one to be put on display in the Pasty Hall of Fame! The pasties should be baked the day before and must be between one and eight degrees Celsius when they are brought to the Eden Project between 9am and 10am on the 3rd March. The judged pasty will then be reheated at 180 degrees Celsius for the judges to enjoy! To enter the championships and for more information, find the details here on the Eden Project’s website.

Registration costs £10 per adult entrant and £5 for a junior entrant, which includes the admission price for the Eden Project, and a plus one. Visitors to the Eden Project can watch the championships taking place for free with an Eden admission. If you would love to take part in this pasty pageant, or just want to join in with the pasty related festivities, why not book a Cornwall short breaks at one of our luxury cottages?!

Upcoming Events: Cornish Pasty Week

When asked to think of Cornwall, it surely won’t be long until the iconic and beloved Cornish pasty comes to mind. As such a staple of Cornish life, it only seems right that the pasty has been awarded its own celebratory week this year, with the first ever ‘Cornish Pasty Week’ kicking off on Sunday 25th February. Beginning on Sunday, a whole week of pasty related activities will be taking place, ending in the ‘Oggy Oscars’, the World Pasty Championship, held at the Eden Project on the 3rd of March.

The events, hosted by the Cornish Pasty Association, so far include pasty-making sessions, with essential crimping techniques being taught in local community groups and schools, as well as pasty themed pub quizzes and kids craft workshops! In the spirit of the week, many pasty shops around the county will be offering discounts and deals, ensuring you get the most pasties you possibly can out of pasty week!

Culminating in the World Pasty Championship at the end of the week-long pasty festivities, keen bakers are in with a chance of winning the ‘Pasty Pageant’ with their Cornish bakes. Registration for entering the competition is still open until midday on the 1st March, so it is not too late if you wanted to try your hand at competitive pasty making. Don’t worry if your pasty skills aren’t quite perfect though, as there are several categories available to enter.

 

There are four skill level categories, company (such as bakeries), professional (those working as a professional cook or caterer), amateur (over-16s not working as a professional cook), and junior (those under 15). These skill categories are then each split into two sections, one for those producing Cornish pasties, made following a traditional recipe, and one for pasties made using more unconventional ingredients, or that have been made outside of Cornwall. There is a Protected Geographical Indication on Cornish pasties, meaning that only those baked within Cornwall, using a traditional recipe, can actually be considered Cornish pasties! As such, the winner of last years ‘professional’ Cornish pasty category, who came from Canada, had to travel to Cornwall to bake his entry in order to legally class his pasty as Cornish.

If you want to enter the competition, you must bake two identical pasties; one for the judges to try, and one to be put on display in the Pasty Hall of Fame! The pasties should be baked the day before and must be between one and eight degrees Celsius when they are brought to the Eden Project between 9am and 10am on the 3rd March. The judged pasty will then be reheated at 180 degrees Celsius for the judges to enjoy! To enter the championships and for more information, find the details here on the Eden Project’s website.

Registration costs £10 per adult entrant and £5 for a junior entrant, which includes the admission price for the Eden Project, and a plus one. Visitors to the Eden Project can watch the championships taking place for free with an Eden admission. If you would love to take part in this pasty pageant, or just want to join in with the pasty related festivities, why not book a Cornwall short breaks at one of our luxury cottages?!

 

How to Spend a Romantic Valentine’s Day in Cornwall

February 12th, 2018

What better way to celebrate your love than to embark on a romantic getaway with luxurious short breaks in Cornwall. Getting a change of scenery and escaping the busy routine of your everyday life can be a great relationship booster and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and even more in love! And speaking of scenery changes, the stunning scenic views in Cornwall are unparalleled, and are sure to enhance your passionate weekend away. Make the most of your time together, and indulge in some of the local treats, with some of the best chefs right on your doorstep. There is an abundance of exciting and romantic activities to enjoy while away, so here are some of our favourites:

 

Afternoon Tea

Scones are a Cornish staple. No trip to the county would be complete without this tasty bite, smothered in strawberry jam and then a generous dollop of Cornish clotted cream added (the Cornish way!).  Indulging in a traditonal cream tea for two is a delightful way to spend the day, and will give you and your partner a chance to relax and have a chat about the things you normally don’t get a chance to.

 

Ice Skating at the Eden Project

Make the most of the last few days of the Eden Project’s ice rink before it says goodbye until next winter. The rink will be removed on the 18th February, giving you enough time to enjoy it for a Valentine’s Day bonding activity. Ice skating is the perfect Valentine’s Day choice as not only is there a hint of romance about the sport, but also most people cannot make it around the rink without having to cling on to their partner, making it an ideal choice for fans of holding hands!!

 

Be in Nature

There’s something about nature that is intrinsically romantic. Whether it is the beautiful blooms or the clear blue skies that make you feel love, getting out and about in nature is a great way to spend your Valentine’s Day. While there are many coastal paths and walking routes showing you the best of Cornwall, there are also some great gardens, such as the Lost Gardens of Heligan and Trelissick Garden, which are fantastic to explore. Plus, most gardens will have a tearoom, so you can enjoy a light lunch together while taking in the delightful views.

 

Spend the Evening in a Cosy Pub

There are plenty of pubs throughout Cornwall, but while things may be heating up for Valentine’s Day, the wintery February weather is still sending chills, so choosing somewhere cosy is key. With a log burner, and comfy leather armchairs to curl up in, The Rising Sun in Truro provides a toasty spot to sit back and snuggle up with a pint.

 

Beach Stroll

With striking coastline surrounding most of the county, there certainly isn’t a shortage of beaches for you to choose from., With stretches of soft golden sand and secret coves to explore, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a romantic stroll. Head to the clifftops to watch the sun set (or rise, if you’re into early mornings), and take in those incredible panoramic views. For a bit of quiet, look for the hidden coves and secret beaches for a more intimate experience.

 

Tintagel Castle

There are plenty of castles and intriguing properties throughout Cornwall, but Tintagel Castle is by far one of the most stunning. Said to be the birth place of King Arthur, there is certainly love and magic in the air at this historic site. Sat on the dramatic Northern coastline, you are sure to be inspired by its beauty.

 

What are your Valentine’s Day plans? Are there any other places in Cornwall which are great to go to for a romantic day? Let us know in the comments!

 

What’s On at Eden this February Half Term

February 06th, 2018

5 reasons to visit the Eden Project this February Half Term – the Eden Project has to be one of our favourite local attractions here at The Valley. With a plethora of exciting activities, events and sights available all year around, this February half term has a fantastic line up of family-friendly activities that all the family will enjoy:

1. Early Man

Are you a fan of Chicken Run and Wallace & Gromit? If so, you’ll love the newest adventure by the same creators, Early Man. The scene is set at the dawn of time and tells an incredible story of Dug and his best friend Hognob as they courageously fight to save their beloved home. Take a step back in time to go on your very own quest for the Schoolkel coin and you’ll learn about historic civilisations before heading into the Cave where you can become a cave-artist! Not only will this be an educational experience of history, but you’ll also have the chance to see some sneak previews of behind the scenes footage from the film itself! The Early Man exhibitions will be available for your adventures between the 13th February and the 18th February, so don’t miss out on this exclusive event! Don’t forget to head to your local cinema to see the full story too!

2. Storyfest

Celebrate the magic of children’s stories at the Eden Project this half term with Storyfest. With performances by the Imagination Seekers drawing inspiration from Roald Dahl’s wild stories, writing workshops by Paper Nations, crafts and workshops a plenty, there’s something to capture all the family’s interests this February! Storyfest is running from the 11th to the 19th February 2018 and admission fees are included in the entry price to the Eden Project.

3. Ice Skating

The Christmas ice skating rink is open until the 18th February for all to enjoy. Whether you and the kids are rookies or professional skaters, you’ll love the magical experience. Penguin aids are available for the little ones who aren’t quite so confident on the ice too! Each session lasts for 40-minutes and prices are £7.00 for an adult, or £6.00 for a child.

4. Food

The Eden Project has plenty of fantastic places to stop off and refuel on-site, from The Coffee House, perfect for a sweet treat and a warming beverage; to the traditional Pasty Snack Bar and exotic Eden Kitchen, there’s something sure to suit every taste. Refuel yourself after walking around the wonders at the Eden Project with some delectable treats before continuing on your wild adventure.

5. The Biomes

The events mentioned above are all special seasonal events, however, the usual suspects of the tropical biomes, incredible rainforest walks, and stunning sculptures are also available to view during your trip. Our family friendly cottages in Cornwall are perfectly located so that you can explore the beauty of Cornwall and the excitement of the Eden Project from your very own luxury home! For the adults, a little Valentine’s treat is available on the special day in the form of a three-course meal in the Rainforest Restaurant with champagne, canapés and entertainment all included in the ticket price.