Boscastle. 2 Fore Street Restaurant. Lost Gardens of Heligan. Porthminster Café. The Gurnard s Head. Jamie Oliver s Fifteen. Idle Rocks.

Transcription

1

2

3 Boscastle EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P10 The romantic and picturesque village of Boscastle on the north coast of Cornwall was once home to both busy fishing and stone working trades. The village sits high above the harbour and is flanked by a breath taking rugged and rocky coastline. 2 Fore Street Restaurant EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P51 2 Fore Street is a chic Michelin-guide bistro restaurant in the little picturesque fishing village of Mousehole. This delightful find is located within the old lifeboat house. Serving all day, the courtyard and garden is a lovely spot for tea and cakes or the catch of the day. 1 5 Lost Gardens of Heligan EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P26 The Lost Gardens of Heligan is world-renowned and one of the most popular botanical gardens in England. The gardens are typical of the 19th century Gardenesque style whose design encourages gardens to be recognisable as works of art. Porthminster Café EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P52 Porthminster beach is a short walk from St. Ives harbour and at this prime location is the award-winning Porthminster Café. Great for snacks, lunch or dinner, the café is renowned for its fresh and sustainable fish dishes and is a go-to place for those in the know. 2 6 The Gurnard s Head EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P32 A landmark pub almost at the edge of England, the Gurnard s Head is your last stop for a pint and an open fire before the Atlantic Ocean. Between St Just and Zennor, this is genuine Cornwall. Wild, mysterious and beautiful, the Gurnard s Head is an inn that transports you back to when travel was that little bit slower. 3 Jamie Oliver s Fifteen EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P53 Not much can be said about Jamie Oliver that hasn t been said already but as for the concept of Fifteen, the Cornwall branch really is something special. Oliver s first Fifteen restaurant was opened with the intention of nurturing culinary talent and training unemployed youngsters, an ethos which the Watergate Bay restaurant continues. 7 Eden Project EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P12 Environmental conservation, sustainability and inspirational education are the core values of the world-renowned Eden Project. Carefully developed over many years, the geodesic domes house the world s largest indoor rainforest and a Mediterranean microclimate showcasing plants from many different habitats. 4 Idle Rocks EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P56 The imposing façade of the Idle Rocks in St. Mawes dates back to 1913 and is now home to a chic, boutique hotel which boasts a fine restaurant and exceptional sea views. Dishes in the restaurant are kept simple, local and foraged wherever possible. Menus are a combination of fresh, nourishing food with a focus on sophisticated fine cuisine. 8 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 4 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 5

4 Alba Restaurant EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P62 Alba is a fine dining restaurant located within a former lifeboat house behind an impressive glass facade, with exceptional sea views. Run by the classically trained chef Grant Nethercott, Alba combines techniques to create unique, modern and British cuisine. 9 Museum of Witchcraft & Magic EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P160 The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is a museum dedicated to European witchcraft and magic and houses one of the world s largest collections of items relating to witchcraft and the occult. Since 1960, their collection has grown to more than 3,000 objects and 13 Porthminster Gallery EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P163 Porthminster Gallery is a maze of interesting exhibition rooms displaying unique and vibrant artworks. This award-winning gallery is a bright, quayside gallery for British contemporary art located in a former warehouse by the sea in St. Ives. 10 Healey s Cornish Cyder Farm EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P146 With the focus on apples and fine flavours, Healey s newly refurbished Cornish Cyder Farm makes for a great day out for all the family. Tours run throughout the day allowing visitors to see the cider making process and take a tractor ride around the 100 acres of 14 Fowey Harbour EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P17 Fowey Harbour is nestled on the South Cornish coast between Plymouth and Falmouth. The harbour is situated on the western side of the Fowey River and bound by other towns and villages including Golant and Lostwithiel. Locals say the port is littered with sunken boats bought by drunk amateurs. 11 Strong Adolfo s Café EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P91 Strong Adolfos is how a roadside cafe should be. Located on the Atlantic Highway, this Swedish inspired eatery makes an ideal pit stop when touring this beautiful part of Cornwall. This striking building has panoramic glass windows through which you can admire the estuary at Wadebridge. 15 The Tinner s Arms EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P34 The Tinner s Arms is a traditional pub that is the beating heart of Zennor, and is one of Cornwall s hidden gems. This Grade II listed, 13th century pub has stone floors, low ceilings and inglenook fireplaces. 12 Genki Café EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P93 Meaning health and happiness in Japanese, Genki s atmosphere, ambience and setting certainly help to nurture those benefits. This little shack close to the beach in St. Agnes provides nourishment throughout the day and you can enjoy a moment s peace and good eats in their tiered Zen garden. 16 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 6 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 7

5 Jubilee Pool EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P25 This renowned art deco swimming pool in Penzance was built in 1935 and is one of the few surviving outdoor lidos from that period that remains in the UK. A welcome reminder of simple seaside Britain, the Jubilee Pool can accommodate young and old with picnic tables, a café and a covered area in case of bad weather. 17 Polperro EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P20 One of the most popular destinations in Cornwall, Polperro is a largely unspoilt fishing village on the southeast coast. The beach here is small and sandy and sports a fabulous little tidal pool ideal for first swimmers. Pretty cottages cling to the steep hillside of this quaint and picturesque harbour. 18 The Old Quay House EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P58 In a beautiful position on the Fowey estuary, the Old Quay House is a 19th-century riverside hotel and restaurant with a friendly and unpretentious approach to good dining. The large dining terrace is a great place for afternoon teas or sundowners with a fantastic view of the passing vessels and numerous waterfowl on the river. 19 National Maritime Museum EDITOR S PICK FOR MORE INFO, SEE P161 Preserving Cornwall s maritime heritage is the mission of the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth, in a harbour-side location at Discovery Quay. The museum is extensive, with many excellent exhibits including an impressive collection of boats strung from the ceiling, 20 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 8

6 Boscastle OUT & ABOUT BOSCASTLE PL35 0HD New Road PL35 0HD Trebarwith Strand OUT & ABOUT TREBARWITH PL34 0HB Trebarwith Beach PL34 0HB The romantic and picturesque village of Boscastle on the north coast of Cornwall was once home to both busy fishing and stone working trades. The village sits high above the harbour and is flanked by a breathtaking rugged and rocky coastline, perfect creative inspiration for numerous artists and writers. In addition to the stunning natural beauty, Boscastle has a plethora of galleries, potteries, pubs and even a museum of witchcraft. An ideal base for walking and a fascinating link with times past, Boscastle is an essential stop-off for any visit to the West Country Museum of Witchcraft and Magic (p160) Boscastle Farm Shop (p153) The Mill House Inn (p48) Close to Tintagel, Trebarwith Strand is a coastal settlement and popular destination for both Cornish and Devonian folk. Perfect for swimmers of all ages and complete with rock pools, cliffy outcrops and shallows, Trebarwith Strand can easily fill your day even if the weather doesn t oblige. The Strand Café up the hill stocks beachside staples such as icecream and tea. If you ve some experience, the surf here is good but strong. Relaxing, picturesque and often quiet, Trebarwith Strand is the ideal Cornish sunset spot, especially enjoyable with a pint from the nearby Port William pub. Unavailable The Mill House Inn (p48) Boscastle Farm Shop (p153) Museum of Witchcraft and Magic (p160) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 10 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 11

7 Eden Project OUT & ABOUT BODELVA PL24 2SG Bodelva PL24 2SG The Castle Bude OUT & ABOUT BUDE EX23 8LG The Wharf EX23 8LG Environmental conservation, sustainability and inspirational education are the core values of the world-renowned Eden Project. Carefully developed over many years, the geodesic domes house the world s largest indoor rainforest and a Mediterranean microclimate showcasing plants from many different habitats. The walks and trails of the Eden Project enable you to discover the secrets of the rainforest and experience the climate that sustains the abundant life there. The Project promotes global citizenship through community initiatives and conservation schemes. Their café is a welcome treat with fine local foods. Not to be missed Yummy Scrummy Bakery (p115) Black Dog Antiques & Interiors (p131) The Lost Gardens of Heligan (p26) A fascinating and impressive day out for the whole family, The Castle Bude includes a heritage centre, coffee shop and art gallery. Ideal for amusing the kids on those wet and windy days, The Castle Bude is a central and iconic heritage building that acts as a hub of cultural activity for this area of Cornwall. Built by the inventor of the steam carriage, Sir Goldsworthy Gurney in 1830, The Castle embodies the spirit of Victorian engineering ingenuity and was a pioneering building in its time. The temporary galleries display contemporary art and photography while the café serves a fine cream tea overlooking the beach Summerleaze Beach (p27) La Bocca Pizza Kitchen (p84) The Beach At Bude (p81) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 12 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 13

8 Readymoney Cove OUT & ABOUT FOWEY PL23 1JH Readymoney Road PL23 1JH Looe Harbour OUT & ABOUT LOOE PL13 1DX The Quay PL13 1DX Readymoney Cove is a stunning and sheltered sandy beach located to the south of the harbour town of Fowey. On a sunny day, this is a magical spot with numerous rock pools to explore and tranquil calm waters for a family swim. The imposing St Catherine s Castle sits on the opposite side of the bay. The cove is easily accessible via a footpath and the water is safe with gentle currents. Above the beach sits the former coach house which was once the home of renowned Cornish author Daphne du Maurier. The tiny hamlet offers various rentals and dogs are allowed on the beach in the quieter months Fowey Harbour (p17) The Webb Street Company (p138) Quay Bakery (p156) Looe is one of the most picturesque fishing villages in Cornwall and has a bustling fishing port with fishermen bringing in their catches daily. The distinctive houses here traditionally had their living areas upstairs due to the very common floods in the town. Boat excursions run to nearby Looe Island, a nature reserve which makes an excellent family day out. The steep-sided valley of the river Looe is the site of evidence of habitation going back to prehistoric times. Over the years Looe grew to become a major port by the 1400s The Old Sail Loft (p85) Trawlers on the Quay (p78) The Blue Peter Inn (p36) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 14 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 15

9 Portscatho OUT & ABOUT PORTSCATHO TR2 5HH The Lugger TR2 5HH Fowey Harbour OUT & ABOUT FOWEY PL23 1AJ Albert Quay PL23 1AJ Situated on the Roselands peninsula near to Truro on the edge of Gerrans Bay, Portscatho is a delightful part of Cornwall and a great area for walks around the harbour, the coastal path and the nearby beach. The steep slope down to the beach means that the views from the village itself are exceptional in all directions. Portscatho is popular with foodies and is known for its outstanding food shops, restaurants and pubs. Portscatho is a great destination to spend an afternoon nurturing a pint of Cornish ale, a cream tea or a traditional pasty. The village also hosts a vibrant fish festival in August. Unavailable The Harbour Gallery (p170) Tatams (p114) The Watch House (p79) Fowey Harbour is nestled on the South Cornish coast between Plymouth and Falmouth. The harbour is situated on the western side of the Fowey River and bound by other towns and villages including Golant and Lostwithiel. Locals say the port is littered with sunken boats bought by drunk amateurs. The large natural harbour has always been an important maritime access point and is part of the southern Cornish area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Fishing, sailing and other water sports are all popular here and the harbour and its surrounds are great places to explore by foot, car or boat The Old Quay House (p58) Quay Bakery (p156) The Webb Street Company (p138) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 16 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 17

10

11 Polperro OUT & ABOUT POLPERRO PL13 Quay Road PL13 Bude Sea Pool OUT & ABOUT BUDE EX23 8HN Sea Pool EX23 8HN One of the most popular destinations in Cornwall, Polperro is a largely unspoilt fishing village on the southeast coast. The beach here is small and sandy and sports a fabulous little tidal pool ideal for first swimmers. Pretty cottages cling to the steep hillside of this quaint and picturesque harbour. Free from traffic, Polperro is equally enjoyable for browsing, wandering and eating with its many independent shops, noteworthy seafood restaurants and galleries. The relaxed town is also a great starting point for cliff walks in both directions with fantastic views. Unavailable The Three Pilchards (p40) The Blue Peter Inn (p36) The Old Sail Loft (p85) Created in the 1930s to provide safe and comfortable swimming, Bude Sea Pool is a great community facility and totally free of charge. The semi-natural pool was created under the curve of the cliff and provides a lovely spot to swim sheltered from the often extreme Atlantic Ocean. Now administered by the independent Friends of Bude Sea Pool Charity, it is a focal point on the Bude section of the coast. At 88 metres long and 43 metres wide, the pool makes a great place for a workout. The facilities are constantly improving and the care and devotion of the charity mean it is well worth supporting Summerleaze Beach (p27) The Castle Bude (p13) La Bocca Pizza Kitchen (p84) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 20 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 21

12 Port Isaac OUT & ABOUT PORT ISAAC PL29 Fore Street PL29 Rock Beach OUT & ABOUT ROCK PL27 6LD Rock Road PL27 6LD The word picturesque could have been coined for Port Isaac. The narrow winding streets are lined with whitewashed cottages, many of which are now listed due to their historical importance and pleasing aesthetic. Wander down to the harbour where you will find local fishermen landing their daily catch each morning. Port Isaac is set amidst rugged and magnificent scenery on Cornwall s North coast from where you can begin stunning coastal walks, visit Polzeath Beach or head out on a boat trip. Port Isaac has become a popular stop off with fans of the TV series Doc Martin starring Martin Clunes which is filmed here. Unavailable The Golden Lion (p41) Outlaw s Fish Kitchen (p76) Kiln (p134) On the eastern shore of the Camel Estuary, the village of Rock has a reputation as an upmarket holiday destination for the yachting set. The beach is a long stretch of golden sand which follows the estuary to the coast. The sand dunes behind mask the renowned and prestigious St Enodoc golf course. The beach is spacious enough for a spot to be found even in the height of summer, while the local area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is known for its waterfowl. Set opposite Padstow, Rock has been referred to as Kensington on Sea but actually all are welcome and it s a great beach. Unavailable Blue Tomato (p111) Rick Stein, The Seafood Restaurant (p71) St Petroc s Bistro (p65) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 22 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 23

13 Fistral Beach OUT & ABOUT NEWQUAY TR7 1HY Headland Road TR7 1HY Jubilee Pool OUT & ABOUT PENZANCE TR18 4FF Battery Road TR18 4FF One of the world s top surfing destinations, eager surfers flock to Fistral for the big waves and surf scene. Many of the UK s biggest surf competitions take place here and whether you are a pro or a beginner, Fistral is ideal as the two headlands funnel in the big waves while providing more manageable surf between. Bodhi s Beach Cafe offers a range of drinks and snacks throughout the main holiday seasons and the imposing grandeur of the Headland Hotel looks out over the beach. On shore there are plenty of opportunities to book surf lessons or hire gear and a number of takeaways including Rick Stein s popular fish and chip shop Rick Stein, Fistral (p66) The Harbour Fish & Grill (p70) The Boathouse (p89) This renowned art deco swimming pool in Penzance was built in 1935 and is one of the few surviving outdoor lidos from that period that remains in the UK. A welcome reminder of simple seaside Britain, the Jubilee Pool can accommodate young and old with picnic tables, a café and a covered area in case of bad weather. The pool sports an unusual triangular yet curved design which nestles close to the sea while being protected by high walls. With classes and other activities regularly held, the Jubilee Pool is a charming and satisfying place to spend a day relaxing in the delightful Art Deco surroundings The Cornish Barn (p64) No.56 (p73) The Honey Pot (p100) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 24 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 25

14 The Lost Gardens of Heligan OUT & ABOUT ST. AUSTELL PL26 6EN Pentewan PL26 6EN Summerleaze Beach OUT & ABOUT BUDE EX23 8HN Summerleaze Crescent EX23 8HN The Lost Gardens of Heligan is world-renowned and one of the most popular botanical gardens in England. The gardens are typical of the 19th century Gardenesque style whose design encourages gardens to be recognisable as works of art Within easy walking distance of Bude, Summerleaze Beach never feels too crowded due to the huge expanse of golden sands. The unusual large breakwater protects the small harbour and the mouth of the Bude canal, with its bobbing fishing boats Unveiled in 1992 from under decades of overgrowth, the 200 acres of the Lost Gardens were rediscovered having been devoured by the brambles. The Heligan Tearoom provides Cornish cream teas and home-cooked lunches, incorporating fresh seasonal produce from the gardens and estate. Well behaved dogs are welcome if kept on a lead. Lobbs Farm Shop (p150) The Sharksfin (p46) The Kings Arms (p35) Given the location and the surf break, the beach is particularly popular with families and surfers. Not just a flat expanse, Summerleaze Beach has rock pools around the edges and is great for walking and dogs can be taken in the low season. A sea-water bathing pool on the opposite side of the beach makes for safe bathing in all conditions. Bude Sea Pool (p21) The Castle Bude (p13) La Bocca Pizza Kitchen (p84) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 26 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 27

15

16 Mevagissey OUT & ABOUT ST. AUSTELL PL26 6UQ Mevagissey is an attractive village and fishing port five miles south of St. Austell. This was once the centre of Cornwall s pilchard fishery with boat building traditions dating back to The village still boasts a working harbour with local fisherman heading out each morning. The name Mevagissey is derived from the names of two saints, St Meva and St Issey and dates back to From the top of Polkirt Hill there is a great view over the cobbled streets, the harbour and the yachting pool. Mevagissey is also ideally located for a visit to the nearby Lost Gardens of Heligan. The Harbour PL26 6UQ Unavailable The Sharksfin (p46) The Kings Arms (p35) The Lost Gardens of Heligan (p26) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 30

17 The Gurnard s Head PUBLIC HOUSES ST. IVES TR26 3DE Nr Zennor TR26 3DE Beerwolf Books PUBLIC HOUSES FALMOUTH TR11 3AZ 3 Bells Court TR11 3AZ A landmark pub almost at the edge of England, the Gurnard s Head is your last stop for a pint and an open fire before the Atlantic Ocean. Between St Just and Zennor, this is genuine Cornwall. Wild, mysterious and beautiful, the Gurnard s Head is an inn that transports you back to when travel was that little bit slower. With excellent dining and rooms with comfortable beds, the Gurnard s Head is both a welcome stop-off and a destination in itself. The food is simple, fresh, local wherever possible and of exceptional quality. As such, this pub regularly features in national pub guides and has a loyal following The Tinner s Arms (p34) Halsetown Inn (p45) Scoff Troff Cafe (p108) No wolf to speak of but this tucked away Falmouth pub certainly has a fine selection of beer and a well-stocked bookshop. A winning combination for drinkers and readers of all persuasions, this freehouse has a great atmosphere and welcomes locals and visitors alike. The pub was voted as the coolest pub in Britain by the Times in 2017 who said A wonderful space in the former home of the Falmouth Working Men s Club, this is a reinvention of the whole idea of the pub, with two threatened urban institutions coming together to create something that feels surprisingly vital Courtyard Deli & Kitchen (p109) Baker Tom s (p118) Falmouth Art Gallery (p166) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 32 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 33

18 The Tinner s Arms PUBLIC HOUSES ST. IVES TR26 3BY Zennor TR26 3BY The Kings Arms PUBLIC HOUSES MEVAGISSEY PL26 6UQ 17 Fore Street PL26 6UQ The Tinner s Arms is a traditional pub that is the beating heart of Zennor, and is one of Cornwall s hidden gems. This Grade II listed, 13th century pub has stone floors, low ceilings and inglenook fireplaces. At the centre of the village for over 700 years, the pub has provided welcoming refuge, a roaring fire and a fine pint of ale ever since. First built for the masons working on the church of Saint Senara in the village, this is still the only pub in town, and as in the past, the food is hearty, satisfying and locally sourced The Gurnard s Head (p32) Halsetown Inn (p45) Porthminster Beach Cafe (p52) This small traditional inn is a charming, pared back pub in the harbour town of Mevagissey. The owners Kris and Helen are passionate about serving good quality food at reasonable prices. They describe their food as ad hoc and their small but perfectly selected menu reflects the changing of the seasons. Daily specials are decided based on what turns up on the dock that day. They like to keep busy and also run Meva Wines, Meva Bakery and The Barrel & Mackerel Food School from the pub to promote local produce and great cooking as best they can The Kings Arms (p35) The Sharksfin (p46) The Lost Gardens of Heligan (p26) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 34 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 35

19 The Blue Peter Inn PUBLIC HOUSES POLPERRO PL13 2QZ Quay Road PL13 2QZ The Chintz Symposium PUBLIC HOUSES FALMOUTH TR11 2BY Old Brewery Yard TR11 2BY Sitting on the harbour wall of the stunning village of Polperro, the Blue Peter Inn offers a warm welcome to all comers. They offer great beer, food, superb views and live music for which its fame has spread far and wide. They do their best to ensure the journey from the sea to your plate is a short one which isn t difficult given their location. Supporting and developing the local music scene is an important part of what the Blue Peter Inn stands for, which makes this a vibrant venue to spend an evening. As a free house the Blue Peter offers an eclectic mix of real ales, ciders and lagers along with mulled wine in the winter months Polperro (p20) The Three Pilchards (p40) The Old Sail Loft (p85) You ll see why the name fits after your first visit to the Chintz Symposium. The eclectic and bohemian decor is paired with the rustic original wooden beams and floors. Not your run-of-the-mill wine bar, the Chintz Symposium mixes fantasy and creativity for a trip down the rabbit-hole to meet Alice on the other side. Red velvet chairs, ornate gold furniture a mini library, tapestry rugs and a chandelier all combine in a wondrous and creative atmosphere. If you are a fan of the pared down, minimalist shades of grey look then this perhaps isn t the place for you Toro Studio (p122) Stones Bakery (p157) Star & Garter (p47) BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 36 BEST OF ENGLAND.COM Page 37

20

21