Tag: Family days out in Cornwall
Hidden Gems in Cornwall: Tregothnan Tea
August 25th, 2023
Wanting to explore a hidden gem in Cornwall? At The Valley, we’re always seeking the best Cornwall has to offer – with stunning grounds and an opportunity to learn about all things tea, this spot definitely provides a great day out!
Tregothnan Tea is known for being the only tea plantation in the United Kingdom and is renowned for producing high-quality, locally grown tea.
Tregothnan has a very rich history, with botanical firsts happening here since 1334. In 2005, the site sold Britain’s first homegrown tea – safe to say, if you’re a lover of tea or wandering around beautiful gardens, this is the place for you. Here’s all you need to know about visiting this Cornish gem.
Where is Tregothnan Tea Located?
Tregothnan is situated near Truro in Cornwall, just a 30 minute drive from The Valley. The unique microclimate of the region, created by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, provides an ideal environment for growing tea.
History of Tregothnan Tea
Tregothnan has a long history dating back to the 1330s when it was acquired by the Boscawen family. Tea cultivation began on the estate in the 1990s, and since then, Tregothnan has become a pioneer in British tea production.
Tea Cultivation at Tregothnan
The estate currently grows a variety of tea plants, including Camellia sinensis (the tea plant). The mild climate of Cornwall allows for year-round cultivation, and the tea plants thrive in the rich, acidic soils of the region.
Tea Varieties
Tregothnan produces a range of teas, including black tea, green tea, herbal infusions, and unique blends. They also experiment with growing different tea cultivars to produce distinct flavours.
Sustainability
Tregothnan is committed to sustainable and ethical tea production. The estate employs traditional and modern techniques to ensure the highest quality tea while minimising its environmental impact.
Visiting Tregothnan Tea
While Tregothnan is primarily a working estate, they do offer limited guided tours of their tea plantation and gardens. This provides visitors with a chance to learn about the tea-growing process, explore the beautiful surroundings, and taste some of the estate’s teas.
With its connection to Cornwall’s landscape and history, Tregothnan Tea offers a piece of British tea culture that is quite different from traditional tea sources.
Online Shop
If you can’t make it to Tregothnan while on your Cornish adventure but are still interested in trying some British tea, Tregothnan’s teas and other products are available for purchase through their online shop.
This allows tea enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy the unique flavours of locally grown British tea.
Visiting Tregothnan Tea is a wonderful way to learn about the art and science of tea cultivation in an unexpected location. It’s a testament to how dedication, innovation, and a bit of favourable climate can create something truly special. If you’re a tea lover or simply interested in unique agricultural experiences, Tregothnan Tea should definitely be on your radar.
If you’re seeking a base for your Cornish adventures, look no further than our luxury holiday cottages here at The Valley! Enjoy a prime location just a short drive away from Tregothnan and an array of other heritage sites and activities.
Location Guide: Kynance Cove
September 30th, 2022
Kynance cove is one of the best beaches to visit on the Lizard Peninsula and is known worldwide for being one of the most beautiful beaches. With its famous beautiful white sand to squidge your toes in, a fascinating mixture of red and green jagged rocks and luscious turquoise waters, this place is a remarkable sight.
In this guide, we will be discovering Kynance Cove and all its wonders!
How Do I Get To Kynance Cove?
If you are driving, go South on the A3083 towards the Lizard Peninsula. When you are approximately half a mile from the village of Lizard, keep an eye out for a brown sign that says Kynance. You will then follow the road to Kynance, and the beach car park will be signposted. Watch out for the speed bumps down to the car park!
If you have a SatNav or use maps on your phone, you can make it easier using the postcode: TR12 7PJ. This postcode will take you straight to Kynance Cove.
The 37 bus runs to Lizard is the closest stop to Kynance Cove. From the bus stop, it is a mile walk to Kynance Cove.
Is There Parking At Kynance Cove?
Yes! Parking is situated at the top of the cliff. During the summer, this is a staffed car park and a pay and display system is provided by the national trust throughout the year. Be aware that Kynance Cove can be super busy during the summer season, and the car park can fill up quickly! It is best to arrive before 11 am to guarantee a car parking space.
Can You Walk Down to Kynance Cove?
Once you have parked your car in the car park and grabbed your beach gear, it is roughly a fifteen-minute walk down to the beach! Along the way, there are some sensational spots to stop and take in the beautiful scenery.
Cornwall provides some of the best beaches for walks. If you stroll along the South West coastal path, you will stumble upon Kynance Cove. The beach is a two-and-a-half-mile walk from Lizard Point; this walk is the perfect opportunity to take in Cornish nature.
What is Kynance Cove Famous For?
The sheer beauty of Kynance Cove alone is enough reason to visit. Famous for its stunning white sandy beach and turquoise waters, it seems you are abroad! At low tide, it is the perfect opportunity to explore the rocks and caves. You could easily spend hours discovering the area with many fascinating formations and mysterious coves.
Can You Swim at Kynance Cove?
A fascinating part of the beach is the sea, and you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters.
The sea uncovers secret coves to explore, but keep an eye out for the tide to ensure you don’t get caught! The last thing you want is to be standing on a rock, to find the sea has gone in and your only way back to shore is to swim.
What is at Kynance Cove?
Suppose you haven’t packed a picnic, do not worry! There is a brilliant eco-friendly cafe located just above the beach. The Kynance Cove Cafe sells an array of delicious food, from iconic Cornish pasties and fresh sandwiches to homemade cakes and cream teas. The cafe also sells beach goods if you forget to bring some beachy essentials.
The cafe also comes equipped with toilets! There is also a toilet located in the car park.
Is Kynance Cove Dog Friendly?
Yes! During the winter months, you can take your four-legged friends down to Kynance Cove for a furry adventure. Splashing around in the water, running around different coves and playing fetch on the beach will be so much fun for any pup who puts its paws onto the sand.
However, in the high season, between 1st July – 31st August, there is a seasonal dog ban. This dog ban is daily from 10 am – 6 pm. But do not worry, though! There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall with dogs not too far from Kynance Cove that will provide endless fun for you and your pup.
How Safe is Kynance Cove?
There are so many rocks and coves to explore once the sea leaves the sand, so there is a chance of injury. Please keep yourself safe by staying on the main beach areas, and do not put yourself in harm’s way.
As mentioned earlier, you must keep an eye on the tide to ensure you are not caught. Additionally, please be aware that lifeguards do not man Kynance Cove, so enter the sea at your own risk. If you are looking for beaches with lifeguards, check out our guide to family friendly beaches in Cornwall for more information.
Our beautiful range of holiday cottages in Cornwall is available to book now! These stunning cottages are the perfect companion for exploring the fantastic place of Kynance Cove. Don’t hesitate to contact us at 01872 862194 or book online for reservations or inquiries.
The Best Local Shops in Helston
June 28th, 2021
Helston is a bustling little market town just half an hours drive away from The Valley.
With a beautiful mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture, this town is most famous for its Flora Day, held on the 8th of May. Flora Day is a cherished tradition in Helston where there’s dress up, music and of course, the Floral Dance.
Thousands of visitors flock to Helston for this event, but that’s not all the quaint little town has to offer. Here, we’re going to be looking at some of the best local shops in Helston that you can visit.
If you’re interested in visiting Helston, why not choose one of our luxury Cornish cottages to stay in?
Everything Cornish
If you find yourself in Helston while on your holiday and decide you want something to remember your trip, there’s nowhere better than Everything Cornish.
This store can be found at 17 Meneage Street in Helston and sells a wide variety of either cornished themed products or goods that are produced locally.
From food and gift hampers, all the way to dog wear – there’s truly something for everyone in Everything Cornish.
Glazed Expression
This adorable ceramics art studio and gallery is the place to visit if you’re a fan of local art and culture.
Based at 45 Meneage Street, this shop aims to showcase art in a homely environment and creates a friendly atmosphere for you to view and shop. They showcase art and ceramics from local artists across a range of mediums including pyrography and clay.
They even have a friendly onsite studio, so if you want to try your hand at some ceramics, you can book one of their classes in-store or on their website.
Daisy Chain
If you’re a fan of all thing’s rustic, then The Daisy Chain is a must-stop shop while in Helston. Also on Meneage Street, this store offers an amazing array of homewares, gifts and clothing hand-chosen from local suppliers.
This rustic haven is perfect for anyone who values ethical and sustainable shopping and even offers a range of handmade products for you to take home.
Cornish Tin & Gold
Cornish Tin & Gold was created in 2007 from its parent company, Wearnes (also the parent of Everything Cornish), which has been based in Helston for over 100 years!
This shop was formed when Sarah Corbridge decided she wanted a precious metal of Cornish origin to craft her jewellery from. She invented the Cornish Tin & Gold alloy in 2007 using tin salvaged from the SS Liverpool shipwreck that sank off Anglesey in 1863.
They offer a unique mix of gold and silver jewellery, giving you an everlasting memory of Cornwall to take home. Not to mention, 10 years of marriage is commonly associated with tin, making their products a great 10th wedding anniversary gift.
It’s more important than ever to support local economies, so we hope that while you’re enjoying your Cornish holiday, you’ll pop in to one of these amazing stores!
If you’re interested in booking a luxury Cornish holiday, why not browse our range of available cottages, or get in touch today.
Image credit – Visit Cornwall
4 Activities for All the Family in Cornwall
May 11th, 2020
Cornwall is the perfect holiday destination in the UK; with numerous seaside towns, plenty of delicious restaurants and so many activities, you will never be short of somewhere to visit or something to do!
Whether you are looking for adventure, heritage or simply a fun-filled day out, Cornwall has plenty to offer. We share some of our top activities for all the family so that you can all enjoy your time in the Cornish countryside.
Flambards Theme Park
Come rain or shine, Flambards Theme Park is a brilliant day out for the whole family. From soft play areas for the little ones to sky-high adventure rides for the thrill-seekers and a life-size Victorian Village for the aspiring historians!
Flambards Theme Park features award-winning indoor attractions, so if you find yourself visiting on a day that is a little wet, not to fear because there is still lots to see and do. Additionally, when purchasing a full-price ticket, you receive a free return for a further six consecutive days from the date of the first admission. So, you could always visit again to experience the whole park!
Enys Gardens
Take the day to explore the 30 acres of lush gardens and discover some beautiful and picturesque scenery. Each season offers a different experience as different flowers come into bloom. No matter what time of year you visit, you can be sure to have a wonderful time spent with loved ones unwinding in the countryside.
From ponds and flower gardens to woodlands, there is lots to discover. The gardens are huge, so there is plenty for the little explorers to see! There is also Enys House to visit; step back in time and see the old Georgian house that was built in the 1830s!
After building up an appetite from walking around the stunning gardens, you can stop at the Garden Café for a bite to eat and light refreshment. With sandwiches, salads and homemade soup, there is lots to choose from for your lunch. There is also an array of freshly baked cakes and scones for a little treat. After all, you are in Cornwall, so it’s only right to have a cream tea!
National Maritime Museum Cornwall
While visiting the Cornish seaside, why not learn more about the big blue sea? The National Maritime Museum features 15 galleries that span over five floors! Each of the galleries shares insight and information on the sea’s history and culture. Here are just some of the things you can explore at the National Maritime Museum:
- A variety of boats from around the world
- RNLI Rescue Zone
- Boat Building Workshop
- Cornwall and the Sea
- Tidal Zone (you can look underwater at the harbour through two large windows)
- The Treasure Island Play Zone
- The Lookout Tower (look at breathtaking views over the harbour, docks and estuary)
- The Boat Pool (you can sail small model boats)
Newquay Zoo
One of the most well-known attractions in Cornwall is Newquay Zoo. With over 130 species, there are plenty of animals to meet and learn all about. From monkeys and reptiles to zebras and big cats, you can get up close to some of the world’s most fascinating animals.
You could spend the whole day at Newquay Zoo exploring the 13 acres of the park. There are two onsite cafes for you to grab a bite to eat, or you can pack your own picnic and settle down in one of the eating areas.
If you want to add something extra special to your trip, you can pay extra to meet the animals up close and personal. Animal experiences are something that you will remember for a lifetime. The following animal experiences are available at Newquay Zoo:
- Lion Feeding: Help the keepers feed the lions and learn all about these incredible cats.
- Red Panda Experience: Meet the loveable pair of red pandas, Germaine and Zou, feed them and learn all about them from the panda keepers.
- Penguin Encounter: For those who love penguins, this could be an incredible experience. Get up close with the animals, feed them some fish and learn from the keeper all about the fascinating species.
- Junior Zookeeper Experience: For those aged between 8 and 14 years old, this is the perfect experience! You can get first-hand experience of what it’s like to work with the fantastic animals at Newquay Zoo.
- Zookeeper Experience: Are you an animal lover, or maybe you wonder what it would be like to be a zookeeper? The zookeeper experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close with so many different animals.
If you would like to visit any of these attractions, why not stay with us at The Valley? We offer luxury family holidays in Cornwall, perfect for a getaway with loved ones!
You Might Also Be Interested In:
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:
February Half Term Activities in Cornwall 2020
January 17th, 2020
With February half term on the way, we take a look at some of the exciting activities that are taking place near our child-friendly cottages in Cornwall!
(more…)Family-friendly Days Out in Cornwall this Winter
December 06th, 2019
For those heading on a winter staycation in Cornwall with the family, rest assured you’ll experience the rough and rugged beauty of the county and all it has to offer. The long and unforgiving queues of the summer will be long-forgotten, and life seems to tick by at somewhat of a slower pace in comparison to the rest of the country. However, just because your experience may not reflect the blue skies, golden sands, aqua blue seas that you’ve seen in pictures does not mean your stay will be any less enjoyable. In fact, this beautiful corner of Cornwall is home to some fantastic family attractions that can be enjoyed come rain, shine or sub-zero temperatures. Here at The Valley, we’ve created a list of just some of our favourite places to visit with the family throughout the colder months.
Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm
Perhaps not the first thing you have in mind when it comes to a day out with the kids, but this cider farm is like none other! Adults can peruse the various flavours of cider on offer, tasting those that take their fancy and stocking up on some homegrown produce for family and friends at home. Meanwhile, kids will love the exploring the farm and meeting the many animals that call it home, including Shetland ponies, Cornish black pigs and pygmy goats. The perfect end to the fantastic afternoon is tucking into a traditional, homemade Cornish cream tea in the tea rooms, but don’t forget to put your jam on first!
Truro Bowl
A classic form of family-friendly entertainment, but one that’s all the more exciting at a new and unexplored bowling alley. With eight lanes, an array of video and amusement arcade games and a well-stocked bar and restaurant serving tasty treats, there really is nowhere better to seek refuge when the rain begins to pour. Located in the heart of Truro, this venue is easy to access from wherever you are and can be tagged on to the end of another excursion.
Raze the Roof
Those with slightly younger children may wish to consider taking the short drive to Raze the Roof for an action-packed day of indoor play! From the four-lane astro slide to the renowned vertical drop slide, there’s no shortage of things to do for children of any age. Tiny tots can run riot in the toddler area, while parents can watch on from the soft seats nearby, and those visiting during term time can check out the Toddler Sessions that take place each morning, Monday to Friday. Slightly older children and young-at-heart adults can have the time of their lives in the Laser Tag centre, full of fog, atmospheric music and quick-fire action to provide an unforgettable gaming experience for all.
Dairyland Farm World
This brilliant indoor and outdoor excursion is perfect for the whole family and is sure to be enjoyed by all, as this is no ordinary farm. From pony and tractor rides to cuddles with fuzzy farm animals, this traditional farm even gives visitors the opportunity to milk cows and bottle feed the young, making dreams come true for animal lovers from far and wide. In addition to the classic farm-based activities, there’s also a huge indoor play area that features a raging bull ride, drop slides and a number of ball pits. The farm is just a short drive away from Truro in Newquay and is sure to be a holiday hit for all!
National Maritime Museum
It can be quite difficult to get children excited about a museum, but the National Maritime Museum has so much on offer for children of all ages, we’re sure they’ll be asking to go back before too long. All of the exhibits are designed with a child’s learning experience in mind, including being set at eye level for younger children. This brilliant and informative museum was once named Large Visitor Attraction of the Year at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards, and once you visit, it will soon become clear why.
Ship and Castles Fun Pool
No holiday to Cornwall is quite complete without splashing around with family and friends, but the sea may be a little too cold and is not for the faint-hearted this time of year. Luckily, there’s no need to rely on the weather! From an exhilarating river run that carries you through the course at thrilling speeds to the realistic wave machine that will make it seem like you’re bobbing around in the sea. The 70m log flume is sure to be a hit with both adults and children alike!
That concludes our guide to just some of the many winter-friendly attractions that await your next staycation. If you’re staying in our child-friendly holiday cottages in Cornwall, rest-assured you can enjoy an action-packed break that’s sure to make memories that last a lifetime! For more inspiration on the kinds of things you can get up to during your holiday, check out our recent blog post, 6 Unusual Things to do in Cornwall.
The Best Family-Friendly Days out this Winter in Cornwall
November 27th, 2018
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas; busy streets lined with late-night shoppers and fairy lights illuminating the front of houses. However, as much as you may love the Christmas period, sometimes it is nice to have a break with your family away from all the festivities.
Although it may not be the first location that springs to mind at this time of the year, Cornwall is the perfect destination for a winter holiday with your family. Visiting the county off-season can award you with a host of perks, from quieter activities to better availability for your accommodation, whether that be a hotel or selecting from our range of child friendly cottages. Cornwall this time of the year has a range of things for all you all to enjoy, for adults to children alike. Check out our guide on what to do over the coming months and see if it’s the place for you this winter!
The National Maritime Museum
Nowhere in Cornwall is further than 17 miles from the sea, and what better way to celebrate the wonders of the ocean than visiting the National Maritime Museum. Head on down to Discovery Quay for a wonderful day out for all the family. Since its opening in 2003, the independent museum fused the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, and the former Cornwall Maritime museum together to celebrate the outstanding influence of the sea.
The perfect place to spend a rainy day, explore the five floors of interactive exhibitions. Until 7th January, discover the history of tattoos in the Tattoo: British Art Revealed exhibition, or remember the notable West Countryman, Captain Bligh, on the 200th anniversary of his death at the Captain Bligh: Myth, Man and Mutiny exhibition.
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
With over 55 years experience in seal rescue, rehabilitation and release, a visit to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary should be on the cards this winter! Set in 42 acres of land, the park is home to 29 different animals, from sea lions and penguins to otters. The perfect location for your family-friendly day out, take a stroll through the woodland area, providing breathtaking views out over the Helford River, before pausing for a bite to eat at the café.
Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm
Try something different on your next visit to Cornwall with a trip to Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm. With free entry to the site, join in on a guided tour around the family-run farm, sampling their traditional farm house cyders and fruit wines. Learn about the process involved behind making the beverages, exploring the press house, jam factory, museum and distillery, amongst other locations. This winter, enjoy the most of the offers available including the chance to enjoy a traditional Cornish Cream Tea.
Land’s End
Spend a day at the most westerly point England while marvelling in the natural beauty that Cornwall has to offer. With a host of activities to entertain you and your family, take a wander along the outstanding coastal paths before learning about the famous journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats and the modes of transport that would be used to take you there.
This year, kids will enjoy visiting the Shaun the Sheep Experience, which introduces the whole family to his wonderful world. Or, for those of you with slightly older children, why not explore Greeb Farm, where you can meet the friendly animals that reside there?
Have you ever booked a holiday to Cornwall during the winter? If so, we would love to hear about the experience, so reach out to us on our social channels to let us know what your favourite part about visiting off-peak was!
Legend of the Bay set to sail on into Newquay this weekend
April 17th, 2015
If you love your watersports, like many of the local residents of Cornwall do, and you’re looking for something exciting to do while staying in our family friendly cottages, Cornwall, Watergate has something you won’t want to miss! The British Kitesurfing Association (BKSA) and the British Stand Up Paddlesurf Assocation (BSUPA) are joining forces to bring Legends of the Bay to Watergate.
