Tag: winter
Best Winter Lunch Spots in Cornwall
January 13th, 2020
Cornwall is home to picturesque scenery, plenty of history and many delightful eateries. It truly is one of the most beautiful spots in the UK, so it is no surprise that people often choose Cornwall as a holiday destination. Come rain or shine, winter or summer; this place is brilliant all year round! You may wonder how you can enjoy the splendid countryside while it is cold and wet, but do not fear, as Cornwall has plenty of places where you can enjoy a spot of lunch and a stunning view. In this blog, we take a look at some of the best cafes, restaurants and pubs that offer delicious food and a breath-taking view, perfect for those chilly winter days.
Pandora Inn, Falmouth
25 to 30 minutes from The Valley
We will start our list of winter lunch spots in Cornwall with the award-winning Pandora Inn. Situated in the beautiful seaside town of Falmouth, this pub is a little gem of history as parts of it date back to the 13th century! It is a cosy and rustic pub, with beams on the ceiling and a thatched roof. The pub is located in a very remote location; therefore, you can arrive at the destination via foot, car, boat or bike. As the car park is of a smaller size, the pub does promote getting the boat across or enjoying a stroll or cycle. Once you arrive at the pub, you can read the fantastic menu that includes dishes such as fish pie, pork tenderloin and homemade Cornish beef burger. All ingredients used in the meals are fresh, sourced locally and the produce used is seasonal. Along with the delicious food, there is an extensive wine list and traditional real ales that are sourced from St Austell Brewery, so why not enjoy a beverage, some glorious food and take in the beautiful scenery? There is nothing better than sitting next to a roaring log fire and looking out at the delightful flowing water outside.
Charlieâs Boathouse, Charlestown
30 to 40 minutes from The Valley
Charlestown is a beautiful fishing village that is nestled in between Carlyon Bay and Porthpean. From coffee and a sandwich to prosecco and eggs benedict, Charlieâs Boathouse is a place suited for everyone! It is a quaint family-run restaurant that is perfect for casual dining. With comfy sofas and a cosy atmosphere, it is a brilliant spot to retreat to after some time in the cold of the winter. On the menu, you can find the Boathouse burger, the Italian job pizza and scorched mackerel, with plenty of choices, you can be sure to find the perfect dish for your lunch this winter.
Lewinnick Lodge, Newquay
25 to 30 minutes from The Valley
Lewinnick Lodge is situated in the cliffs of Newquayâs Pentire Headland and boasts some spectacular views of the sea. While it might be a little chilly in the winter, the deck is a brilliant spot to immerse yourself in the scenery, so we do recommend popping out there to have a look, even if it is for a couple of minutes. Something that is quite a selling point for Lewinnick Lodge, besides the beautiful food and scenery, is the efforts they make to be a sustainable business. They are actively trying to reduce their use of plastic and source all goods locally to shrink their carbon footprint. On the menu, you can find dishes such as Cornish shellfish linguine, Lewinnick burger and Moroccan spiced bean burger, so there is plenty of variety to choose from. The beautiful Fistral beach is only minutes away so you can enjoy a wintery stroll along the beach then get cosy in Lewinnick Lodge and enjoy a refreshment and some food.
Godolphin Arms, Marazion
45 minutes from The Valley
Located opposite the iconic St Michael’s Mount in Marazion, the Godolphin Arms is a modern beachside restaurant that boasts some fantastic views and delicious food. All food served is locally sourced, and the atmosphere is relaxing and chilled, so it is the perfect spot for unwinding and enjoying the scenic views. From the classic fish and chips to monkfish, the Godolphin Arms has a wide variety of options on their menu that should appeal to all visitors. As the restaurant is so close to St Michael’s Mount, why not get the boat out to the iconic spot and then retreat to the Godolphin Arms for a cosy sit down with delicious food and a toasty refreshment to warm you up.
We hope that no matter the weather, you can enjoy your time in the stunning countryside of Cornwall. There is nothing better than spending the morning exploring and then stopping for some lunch in a coastal spot where you can refuel and warm up. If you would like to visit Cornwall, why not consider staying at The Valley in Truro? We offer luxury Cornish cottages suitable for all, including families, couples and dogs! For more information on our retreat, visit our social media channels.
What’s On This Winter in Cornwall
December 11th, 2019
Winter in Cornwall offers you the chance to explore the natural wonders of this beautiful area of the country at a quieter time of the year. As well as the gorgeous beaches and countryside surrounding each of the towns in the county, there are still a number of exciting activities and events taking place over the winter months! Weâve put together a guide to some of the highlights!
(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 youâll 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 youâve 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, weâve 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 donât forget to put your jam on first!
Truro Bowl
A classic form of family-friendly entertainment, but one thatâs 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, thereâs 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, thereâs 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, weâre sure theyâll be asking to go back before too long. All of the exhibits are designed with a childâs 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, thereâs 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 youâre 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 youâre staying in our child-friendly holiday cottages in Cornwall, rest-assured you can enjoy an action-packed break thatâs 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.Â
Truro City of Lights 2019
October 10th, 2019
Each year, around 30,000 people gather in Truro for one of the greatest events in the Cornish calendar at Christmas. Now in its 23rd year, the hugely anticipated Truro City of Lights event sees a parade of creativity from members of the local community. The epic lantern parade and lights switch-on celebration is a staple part of the festive season in Truro, and will be celebrated on Wednesday 20th November 2019.
(more…)New Date for Truro City of Lights
January 10th, 2018
Each year, around 30,000 people gather in Truro for one of the greatest events in the Cornish calendar at Christmas, seeing a parade of creativity from members of the local community. Unfortunately, the event planned for 2017 could not go ahead due to bad weather. As the event involves a parade of paper lanterns, the thunderstorms that were hitting the area throughout November understandably led to the event being postponed. Fortunately, the people of Truro just cannot go without their annual City of Lights parade, so the event has been rescheduled to take place on the 31st of January, to put a bit of light back into your winter!
What is happening at the event?
The star of the show is the lantern procession, featuring around 600 lanterns designed and created by local artists, community groups and school children. Simple materials, primarily withy and paper, are used by the artists to make up enormous glowing figures that are carried throughout the city. Children and volunteers carry smaller handmade lanterns to welcome in the lights. As the parade travels down each street, lights and decorations are lit up harmoniously, lighting up the city as it goes. This year’s theme is ‘glow’, so we’re expecting the City of Lights to be brighter than ever.
While the lanterns take centre stage, there is more to the night than that. Also welcoming in the lights are around 100 street performers, further illuminating the city with the vibrancy of their music and dance. With performances from the Truro Irish Dancers, School of Samba and Kernow Pipes & Drums, among others, you’re sure to be entertained.
Price and Fundraising Event
The City of Lights is free to view, however, the whole event costs ÂŁ50,000 to put on every year, so raffle draws and other fundraising options will be in operation throughout the night to ensure the event can run just as fantastically year after year. As the event was postponed, there were additional costs incurred, meaning that even more money is needed to be raised to enable the event to go ahead. As such, a fundraising evening has been organised for the 17th January at 7pm, starting on Lemon Quay. Also on offer is a VIP package at ÂŁ25 per person, which provides you with a prime view of the parade and a complimentary glass of champagne and nibbles to accompany you. These tickets are limited so booking is essential.
Food
From 3pm, there will be a variety of street traders selling food and drink on Lemon Quay, Boscawen Street and King Street, so if you are feeling peckish while waiting for the parade, there are plenty of tasty options. If you are planning on eating dinner out in the area on the night, remember to book a table in advance, as things will be getting busy.
Where will the procession take place?
The procession kicks-off at Truro High School for Girls, where all of the school and community groups will begin their journey. At Lemon Street, the giant lanterns will join the fun, and the parade will start to make its way through the city centre. The large lanterns will travel down Boscawen Street twice, after a loop around via Little Castle Street, before parading up Princes Street and ending at Lemon Quay. The lights switch on will be taking place in Boscawen Street, where you should also head if you want one of the best views of the procession. Although a word of warning; it can get very busy there!
If you’re looking for family friendly holidays in Falmouth or Truro, The City of Lights is an amazing event that will warm away the winter blues with its exciting glow. The City of Lights takes place on Wednesday 31st January 2018, between 18:30-20:00.
Exciting Winter Walks Near Truro
December 22nd, 2017
With the South West Coast Path spanning the entirety of Cornwall, there are plenty of beautiful locations along the way for winter walks with stunning views. Walk off the Christmas pud with these exciting strolls through the Cornish countryside!
Trelissick Gardens
With gorgeous views and an incredible variety of plants, this garden sits right on the water’s edge, providing a year-round display of vibrant blooms. While you can take a casual stroll through the gardens to admire the flower beds, there are also 375-acres of park and woodland to explore. With an extensive number of trails to choose from, you can enjoy the gardens whatever the weather, picking your route based on the conditions or how much time (and energy!) you have. Follow the river and discover the creeks, or take in the views from the farmland and woods. Warm up after your walk by popping into Trelissick’s tea room and indulge in a delicious cup of hot chocolate and a slice of cake.
St. Michael’s Mount
For a bit of a different walk, combined with incredible views, why not walk along the causeway to St. Michael’s Mount!? While you’re there, wander around the village and harbour, before ambling through the gardens. Be sure to check the causeway closing times before you head off, as there will be no public boats to and from the island until mid-March!
Percuil
The gentle, rolling landscape around Roseland makes for a calming walking experience, perfect for those wintertime rambles. Strolls across the beach are great at any time of the year, but there is certainly something quite enchanting about the seasonal scenery during this time of the year. While it is colder out and about in the winter, the beaches here remain sheltered, protecting you from the full force of the winter winds! If you are looking for a bit of a longer walk to burn off some of the mince pies you’ve been scoffing for the past month, then set off from Porthscatho and head south-west around the coast and headland, before returning up the inland waterway to get some incredible views from St. Anthony. This walk will take you through all sorts of striking landscapes, from beaches to wooded riversides, making it a very exciting journey!
Devoran Circular Walk
The beauty of this walk includes the fact it can be started from your cottage! Embark on a tranquil journey as you head towards peace and quiet along a track which was once used to link the copper and tin mines in the Centre and the North of Cornwall. Following the trail you can enjoy stunning views at Restronguet Creek and the River Fal as well as learning about the history of the port found on the interpretation boards. Regain your energy as the walk draws to a close by sitting down to a well-earned drink and bite to eat at the Old Quay Inn.
If you’re looking for luxury family holidays in Cornwall to get the New Year started, then The Valley is in an ideal location to enjoy all of these walks this winter!
Image Credit:Â AtticTapestry
Why Cornwall is magical in the winter
December 29th, 2016
Many people in the UK will leave their staycations for the summer, when the weather is, on occasion, warmer and brighter; however, these people tend to miss out on the magical side of Cornwall that can only be experienced during the winter months. With these great reasons, there will be no reason not to book your breaks in Cornwall during the winter:
