by lanyon | Jun 7, 2024 | Dog Friendly, Family Friendly, Local Area
Introduction
St Ives, a picturesque town nestled on the north coast of Cornwall, is a haven for artists, beach lovers, and adventurers alike. Known for its golden beaches, vibrant art scene, and charming cobbled streets, St Ives offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This blog will guide you through the best experiences and attractions that St Ives has to offer, ensuring an unforgettable visit to this coastal gem.
- Arriving in St Ives
Getting to St Ives is an adventure in itself, with stunning landscapes along the way.
- By Car: Driving to St Ives offers the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas. The A30 is the main route into Cornwall, leading to the A3074 into St Ives. Be prepared for narrow streets and limited parking in the town centre.
- By Train: The train journey to St Ives is one of the most scenic in the UK. The St Ives Bay Line from St Erth provides breathtaking views of the coastline.
- By Bus: Regular bus services connect St Ives with other major towns in Cornwall, making it an accessible destination.
- Beaches and Outdoor Activities
St Ives is renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities that cater to all interests.
- Porthmeor Beach: A favourite among surfers, Porthmeor Beach boasts great waves and a lively atmosphere. It’s also perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Porthminster Beach: Known for its golden sands and calm waters, Porthminster Beach is ideal for families and those looking to relax. The nearby Porthminster Beach Café offers delicious food with a view.
- Carbis Bay: A short walk from St Ives, Carbis Bay is a tranquil spot with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
- Coastal Walks: The South West Coast Path offers spectacular walks with views of the rugged coastline. The walk from St Ives to Zennor is particularly popular, offering stunning scenery and the chance to spot wildlife.
- Art and Culture
St Ives has a rich artistic heritage, attracting artists from around the world.
- Tate St Ives: This renowned gallery showcases contemporary art and exhibitions inspired by the local landscape. Its rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of the sea.
- Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden: Explore the works of one of Britain’s most famous sculptors in her former home and studio. The garden is a serene space filled with Hepworth’s sculptures.
- Leach Pottery: Founded by Bernard Leach, this historic pottery studio is still in operation today. Visitors can learn about the pottery-making process and view exhibitions.
- Dining and Local Cuisine
St Ives offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachside cafés to fine dining restaurants.
- The Seafood Café: Known for its fresh seafood, this restaurant allows diners to choose their own fish and have it cooked to order.
- Porthminster Beach Café: Located right on the beach, this café offers stunning views and a menu featuring local produce and seafood.
- Blas Burgerworks: For a more casual dining experience, Blas Burgerworks offers delicious gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Cornish Cream Tea: No visit to St Ives is complete without indulging in a traditional Cornish cream tea. Many local tearooms offer freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam.
- Shopping and Markets
St Ives is home to a variety of unique shops and markets, perfect for finding souvenirs and local crafts.
- Fore Street: This bustling street is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and local crafts stores. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
- St Ives Farmers’ Market: Held every Thursday, this market offers a range of local produce, from fresh vegetables and fruits to handmade crafts and baked goods.
- Historical Sites
Discover the rich history of St Ives through its historical landmarks and sites.
- St Ia’s Church: This beautiful parish church, dedicated to the Irish saint Ia, features stunning architecture and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Smeaton’s Pier: A historic pier offering lovely views of the harbor and town, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- The Island: Despite its name, The Island is a grassy headland with panoramic views. It’s home to St Nicholas Chapel, a small but charming historic building.
- Festivals and Events
St Ives hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its artistic and cultural heritage.
- St Ives September Festival: A two-week celebration of music, arts, and culture, featuring performances, workshops, and exhibitions.
- St Ives Food and Drink Festival: Held in May, this festival showcases the best of Cornish cuisine with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
- New Year’s Eve: St Ives is famous for its lively New Year’s Eve celebrations, with fireworks, costumes, and festivities throughout the town.
Conclusion
St Ives is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant local life. Whether you’re exploring its stunning beaches, immersing yourself in its art scene, or savouring delicious local cuisine, St Ives promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to this coastal gem and discover the many treasures that await in Cornwall’s beloved town.
by lanyon | Jun 7, 2024 | Latest News
Introduction
Cooking fresh, local ingredients over a campfire is one of the best ways to enjoy the culinary delights of Cornwall. Pilchards, a traditional Cornish staple, are delicious, nutritious, and perfect for grilling over an open flame. This simple yet flavourful recipe for Grilled Cornish Pilchards will bring the taste of Cornwall to your campsite.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh Cornish pilchards (sardines can be used as a substitute)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Aluminium foil
Instructions
- Prepare the Pilchards:
- Rinse the pilchards under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Make a few diagonal cuts on each side of the fish to help them cook evenly and absorb the marinade.
- Marinate the Pilchards:
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this mixture all over the pilchards, making sure to get it into the cuts and the cavity of the fish.
- Place a few slices of lemon and some fresh herbs inside the cavity of each pilchard.
- Prepare the Campfire:
- Get your campfire going and let it burn down to a medium-hot bed of coals. Alternatively, if you have a grill grate, you can place it over the fire once it has burned down to hot coals.
- Wrap the Pilchards:
- Lay out large pieces of aluminium foil. Place each pilchard on a piece of foil.
- Add a few more slices of lemon and herbs on top of the fish.
- Wrap the foil around the fish to create a sealed packet. This will help to steam the fish, keeping it moist and flavourful.
- Grill the Pilchards:
- Place the foil packets directly on the hot coals or on the grill grate.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, depending on the size of the fish. You’ll know they are done when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the foil packets from the fire and let them cool for a minute before unwrapping.
- Serve the grilled pilchards with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs.
Tips for Campfire Cooking
- Fire Safety: Always make sure your campfire is well-contained and that you have water or sand nearby to extinguish it if necessary.
- Cooking Tools: Bring long-handled tongs and heat-resistant gloves to handle the foil packets safely.
- Accompaniments: Pair your grilled pilchards with fresh Cornish bread, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables cooked in a similar foil packet.
Conclusion
This Grilled Cornish Pilchards recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the fresh flavours of Cornwall while camping. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can savour a delicious meal that captures the essence of Cornish cuisine. Gather around the campfire, share stories, and enjoy this traditional dish that celebrates the best of Cornwall's culinary heritage. Happy camping and bon appétit!
by lanyon | May 9, 2024 | Local Area
Introduction
Cornwall, known for its picturesque landscapes and rugged coastline, also boasts a rich mining heritage that has profoundly shaped its history and culture. From ancient times to the industrial revolution and beyond, mining has played a pivotal role in Cornwall’s development. This blog delves into the fascinating history of Cornish mining, exploring its evolution, key sites, and lasting legacy.
- Ancient Beginnings
The roots of Cornish mining extend back to prehistoric times.
- Early Mining: Evidence of tin mining in Cornwall dates back to around 2000 BC. The region's rich deposits of tin and copper made it a significant area for early metal extraction.
- Bronze Age: During the Bronze Age, Cornish tin was a critical component in the production of bronze, a key technological advancement of the time.
- Roman and Medieval Mining
The mining industry continued to develop through Roman and medieval periods.
- Roman Influence: The Romans recognized the value of Cornwall’s mineral wealth and established tin and copper mining operations, exporting these metals across their empire.
- Medieval Period: During the medieval period, mining techniques improved, and Cornwall’s miners became highly skilled. Tin streaming, a method of extracting tin from riverbeds, was widely used.
- The Industrial Revolution
The 18th and 19th centuries marked the height of Cornwall's mining industry.
- Technological Advancements: The industrial revolution brought significant technological advancements to Cornish mining. The introduction of steam engines, invented by Cornish engineer Richard Trevithick, revolutionized the industry.
- Deep Mining: Innovations allowed miners to extract ore from much deeper underground. Cornwall became a world leader in mining technology and engineering.
- Boom Period: During this period, Cornwall was one of the most important mining regions in the world, producing vast quantities of tin, copper, and other minerals. Towns like Redruth and Camborne thrived as mining hubs.
- Decline and Global Influence
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a decline in Cornish mining.
- Economic Factors: The discovery of tin and copper deposits in other parts of the world, such as South America and Australia, led to a decline in the profitability of Cornish mines.
- Migration: Many Cornish miners emigrated to other countries, taking their expertise with them. This diaspora spread Cornish mining technology and culture globally.
- Modern Legacy: Despite the decline, the influence of Cornish mining can still be seen today. Many former miners' descendants continue to work in the global mining industry.
- Key Mining Sites and Attractions
Cornwall is home to several historic mining sites and attractions that offer a glimpse into its rich mining heritage.
- Geevor Tin Mine: Located near Pendeen, Geevor Tin Mine is one of the largest preserved mine sites in the UK. Visitors can explore the underground workings and learn about the life of Cornish miners.
- Levanto Beam Engine: This impressive beam engine, located near St Just, is one of the best-preserved examples of a Cornish beam engine, used to pump water from the mines.
- Wheal Martyn: An open-air museum near St Austell, Wheal Martyn provides insights into the china clay mining industry, which also played a significant role in Cornwall’s economy.
- Cornish Mining World Heritage Sites: Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Key locations include the Tamar Valley, St Agnes, and the Luxulyan Valley.
- Cultural Impact
Mining has left an indelible mark on Cornish culture and identity.
- Language and Folklore: Cornish mining history is reflected in local language, folklore, and place names. Stories of miners and their superstitions, such as the legendary Knockers (mythical creatures believed to inhabit mines), are part of Cornwall’s rich oral tradition.
- Music and Festivals: Mining songs and ballads remain popular, and festivals like the Camborne Trevithick Day celebrate the region’s engineering heritage.
- Art and Literature: Cornwall’s mining past has inspired numerous works of art and literature, capturing the industry's hardships and triumphs.
Conclusion
Cornwall's mining history is a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Cornish people. From ancient beginnings to global influence, the legacy of mining has shaped the region’s landscape, culture, and identity. Today, visitors to Cornwall can explore this fascinating history through its preserved mines, museums, and cultural sites, gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich heritage.
by lanyon | May 7, 2024 | Latest News, Local Area
Essential Items to Bring to the Beach in Cornwall
Introduction
Cornwall's breathtaking beaches are among the best in the UK, offering golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic coastal scenery. To ensure you make the most of your beach day, it's important to pack wisely. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential items you should bring for a perfect beach outing in Cornwall.
- Sun Protection
Protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial when spending time on the beach.
- Suncream: Choose a broad-spectrum suncream with a high SPF rating. Apply generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides shade for your face, neck, and ears.
- Sunglasses: Wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from glare and harmful rays.
- Beach Umbrella or Tent: Create your own shade with a beach umbrella or pop-up tent, perfect for resting out of direct sunlight.
- Swim and Surf Gear
Enjoy Cornwall’s beautiful waters with the right gear.
- Swimsuits: Bring comfortable and durable swimsuits. Consider packing a spare set if you plan on swimming multiple times.
- Wetsuits: For cooler days or extended time in the water, a wetsuit can keep you warm.
- Towels: Pack large, absorbent beach towels for drying off and lounging on the sand.
- Snorkeling Gear: Explore the underwater world with a mask, snorkel, and fins.
- Surfboards or Bodyboards: Take advantage of Cornwall’s famous surf spots with your own board or rent one locally.
- Comfort and Convenience
Ensure a comfortable and hassle-free beach experience with these essentials.
- Beach Blanket: A large, sand-resistant blanket provides a comfortable spot to relax.
- Beach Chairs: Foldable beach chairs offer a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the view.
- Cooler: Keep your drinks and snacks cool with an insulated cooler. Pack plenty of ice packs or frozen water bottles.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle. Many beaches have water fountains where you can refill.
- Entertainment
Make your beach day fun and engaging with these items.
- Books and Magazines: Bring along some reading material for relaxation.
- Beach Games: Pack games like beach volleyball, frisbee, or paddleball for active fun.
- Portable Speaker: Enjoy your favorite tunes with a waterproof, sand-resistant portable speaker.
- Sand Toys: If you’re traveling with kids, bring buckets, spades, and other sandcastle-building tools.
- Safety and Health
Stay safe and healthy during your beach visit.
- First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can handle minor injuries.
- Water Shoes: Protect your feet from sharp rocks and hot sand with water shoes.
- Insect Repellent: Keep bugs at bay, especially in the evening, with a good insect repellent.
- Hand Sanitizer: Maintain hygiene with hand sanitizer, especially before eating.
- Environmental Care
Respect the natural beauty of Cornwall’s beaches by being environmentally conscious.
- Bin Bags: Bring bags to collect and carry out all your waste.
- Reusable Containers: Use reusable containers for snacks and drinks to reduce plastic waste.
- Biodegradable Soap: If you need to rinse off, use biodegradable soap to minimize environmental impact.
Conclusion
Cornwall’s beaches are a paradise for sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers alike. By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for a comfortable, enjoyable, and environmentally friendly beach day. Whether you're looking to relax, play, or explore, make the most of your time on Cornwall’s stunning shores. Happy beach-going!
by lanyon | Mar 7, 2024 | Family Friendly, Last Minute Holidays, Latest News
Introduction
Camping in Cornwall is a unique experience, with its stunning landscapes and serene beaches providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. One of the joys of camping is cooking your meals in the great outdoors. This blog will guide you through the essentials of cooking while camping in Cornwall, ensuring you enjoy delicious and satisfying meals throughout your trip.
- Essential Cooking Gear
Having the right equipment is crucial for a successful camping cooking experience. Here’s a list of must-have items:
- Portable Stove or Grill: A portable camping stove or a compact grill is essential for cooking meals. Opt for a model that’s easy to set up and clean.
- Cookware: Bring lightweight, durable pots and pans. Non-stick options are particularly useful for easy cleaning.
- Cooking Utensils: Pack a spatula, tongs, ladle, and a stirring spoon. A multi-tool with a can opener and bottle opener is also handy.
- Tableware: Use reusable plates, bowls, and cutlery to minimize waste. Look for lightweight and durable materials.
- Cooler: A high-quality cooler keeps your food fresh and your drinks cold. Ice packs or frozen water bottles help maintain low temperatures.
- Storage Containers: Resealable bags or airtight containers are perfect for storing leftovers and keeping food fresh.
- Planning Your Meals
Proper meal planning ensures you bring the right ingredients and avoid food waste.
- Pre-Prep at Home: Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and pre-cook grains at home to save time and effort at the campsite.
- Simple Recipes: Choose recipes that are easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and cookware. One-pot meals, foil packet dinners, and skewers are great options.
- Non-Perishables: Stock up on non-perishable items like pasta, rice, canned beans, and dried fruits to ensure you have a backup if fresh supplies run out.
- Local Produce: Take advantage of Cornwall’s local produce. Visit local markets for fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
- Breakfast Ideas
Start your day with a hearty and energizing breakfast.
- Breakfast Burritos: Prepare a filling of scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked sausage or bacon. Wrap in a tortilla and enjoy.
- Oatmeal: Quick and easy, oatmeal can be customized with toppings like nuts, dried fruit, and honey.
- Pancakes: Pack a pre-made pancake mix and cook up a stack of fluffy pancakes. Add fresh berries or maple syrup for extra flavour.
- Lunch and Snacks
Keep your energy up with these easy-to-make lunches and snacks.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Simple to assemble and easy to pack, sandwiches and wraps are perfect for a quick lunch.
- Salads: Prepare a refreshing salad with greens, veggies, and a protein source like chicken or beans. Use a resealable container to keep it fresh.
- Trail Mix: Combine nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a bit of chocolate for a delicious and nutritious snack.
- Dinner Delights
Enjoy a satisfying dinner after a day of exploration.
- Foil Packet Meals: Combine your favorite veggies, a protein source, and seasonings in a foil packet. Cook over the campfire for an easy and delicious meal.
- Grilled Seafood: Take advantage of Cornwall’s coastal bounty by grilling fresh fish or shellfish. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a simple salad.
- One-Pot Pasta: Cook pasta with your choice of sauce and add-ins like vegetables, sausage, or chicken for a hearty meal.
- Desserts and Treats
No camping trip is complete without some sweet treats.
- S’mores: A classic camping dessert, s’mores are easy to make and fun to eat. Roast marshmallows over the campfire and sandwich them between graham crackers with a piece of chocolate.
- Grilled Fruit: Grill slices of pineapple, peaches, or bananas for a sweet and smoky treat. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey.
- Campfire Cones: Fill waffle cones with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and fruit. Wrap in foil and heat over the fire for a gooey, delicious dessert.
- Cleaning Up
Maintaining cleanliness is essential for a pleasant camping experience.
- Biodegradable Soap: Use biodegradable soap to wash dishes and utensils. This helps minimize environmental impact.
- Scrub Brush and Dishcloth: A small scrub brush and dishcloth make cleaning up easier. Pack a towel for drying.
- Trash Bags: Bring plenty of trash bags to collect and dispose of waste properly. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Conclusion
Cooking while camping in Cornwall can be a delightful part of your outdoor adventure. With the right gear, proper meal planning, and a few creative recipes, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals under the open sky. Embrace the opportunity to cook in nature and savour the unique flavours of your camping experience. Happy cooking and happy camping!
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