Testing the one hour theory………

Posted on November 24, 2014 by Comments Off on Testing the one hour theory………

IMG_7106The Meadows Campsite is on the south coast of Cornwall, and one of the slimmer parts of the county.  This makes us situate in a very beautiful part of Southern Cornwall with lots to explore on our doorstep, but also a great base for getting out and about in the county.

We love our girls (the chucks), but during down time, they do restrict our getting away on short breaks, so days out are ideal.  We can then make sure we are back late afternoon when it is still light to give them theirdeb's pictures 019 tin of sweetcorn, and put them to bed at dusk.

IMG_0929Our walking is also a little restricted just at the moment, due to Camp Dog having poorly paws, and so it is short walks only until they are better, and so we combine these with scenic drives.

Being nice and central, we can be anywhere else in Cornwall in just about an hour, and so everywhere in the county is doable for a day trip.

This weekend we had a lovely mooch around Padstow on Saturday afternoon, and it was even warm enough to sit outside on the harbour front.  Padstow is never quiet even in the winter, and it even manages to have 3 pasty shops in a row, as well as lots of great eating  in places, and all the very popular shops if you like a spot of shopping.

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Seaton & Downderry

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Portwrinkle Cafe

My favourite magazine is Coast, and this is where you often learn about the not so talked about places.  I think this is often as these places are off the beaten track, and are beautiful just for their naturalness, and you really have to seek places out, and some of the best places you will only see if exploring on foot. On Sunday I was tour leader, and we headed off to the Rame Peninsula which is known as Cornwall’s forgotten  corner. We were heading for lunch in Kingsand, and our first stop on the way was Seaton & Downderry.  We parked up on the front and had a lovely walk on the sea wall, basking in lovely warm sunshine between the two villages, and back along the SWCP which runs on the village coast road where the lucky residents have the most amazing view around to Looe and beyond.

Next stop on the coast road was Portwrinkle, another gorgeous coastal village with a very popular country club and golf course.  We stopped for our morning coffee at the cafe which must have one of the best views in Cornwall right on the cliff top. Portwrinkle is at the start of Whitsand Bay which is quite simply stunning , with very dramatic scenery and sandy beaches.

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Kingsand & Cawsand

Still en route to Kingsand we passed three beautiful old forts and took in the view at Rame Head.  The head looks a fabulous section of the SWCP, but unfortunately H would not have managed the ups and down of the coast path that day, so back on the coast road to Kingsand.  By now the blue sky had changed to a more stormy setting and so we parked ourselves in The Devonport Inn in one of the window seats, and had lunch of fogey river mussels (me), and homemade Cornish pasty and a pint (Camp Daddy), and lots of treats for Harvey from the nice ladies in the pub.  Kingsand and Cawsand are very beautiful villages and fabulous to wander around, but the houses there do take frequent batterings, with all houses on the front having window shutters and flood gates. We have only visited here once before and it was summer time, and we caught the Plymouth ferry over to Mount Edgecumbe and walked around.  Then it was very busy, and a really hot day and we sat outside the same pub where they have trays attached to the habour railings which is a great idea as there is limited room for tables and chairs.

We took the direct route back home, but reading up about the area later, we should have stopped at a couple of places on the other side.  Next time we shall take a look at St John’s lake (twitchers’ paradise), and St Germans Church.   There are also the historic country properties of Anthony, Mount Edgcumbe and Port Eliot.

So for a great day hour whilst holidaying with us at The Meadows, the Rame Peninsula is highly recommended, and indeed we shall be visiting again before we open and exploring more on foot.

Other Meadows News

S7000019We have been getting on with our winter jobs, and a lot of time has been spent “doing” wood! A lot of trees have been taken down mainly random ones in our working area, and also a couple stream side. All the big stuff has been logged and we have completed our first huge log tower ready for fire pits. All the smaller stuff has been shredded and the chucks got the first lot for their pen, and we have ton sacks lined up ready for our new planting areas, along with some stumps for our new stumperry. Still lots of tree work to be done.

Next week is set to be drier and is our last good week to get our plants in, and we have lots of them.  We have some lovely granite boulders, trunks and stumps to make the beds.  All the planting is to be Cornish style, and informal.

We have also been collecting things on our outings, to use for our pitch name signs.  Just when our guests thought they had worked out our pitch numbering system, and you did well as I often get confused, we are giving our pitches names.

On the more practical side, our very skilled Cornish digger man Frank is coming back in the next few weeks to clear out all of our ditches, to keep the land drainage system flowing.  We are also going to be putting in more “grass protecta” soon on to the fore meadow to create our four none electric camper van pitches.  This will enable camper vanners to mingle with the tenters and enjoy the evening sun in the meadow with a view of the Mevagissey hill.

S7000002It seems from an article published in Practical Caravan Magazine this month that The Meadows is getting known as a bit of a foodie campsite.  We like this as we love food, and we do agree that there is so much wonderful food in the area, not just with Lobbs Farm Shop along the trail, and some amazing eateries, but also with wood fired pizzas, paella, breakfasts and cocktails made on site, we hope guests will continue to enjoy such delights.

Bookings – we are now taking bookings for 2015, and please do contact us by either email or telephone to book for next season.  We are a smallish friendly campsite just for grown ups one mile from the sea on the south coast.  We are close to Mevaggisey, Heligan Gardens, Charlestown and lots of other fabulous places.  We are also an ideal campsite if you are keen walkers, or cyclists with lots of walking and cycling routes  starting from the campsite gates.

Well, that’s all for now and it’s time to light the log burner…………

Lynn

 

 

 

 

 

Camp Dog Harvey walking off all those summer treats

Posted on November 6, 2014 by Comments Off on Camp Dog Harvey walking off all those summer treats
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More wood piles required

IMG_7111Our last few days of the season were quiet ones, and so it got us used to the idea of being “quiet”, but it still seems strange to have the gates closed and the place to ourselves.

Making the most of the continued good weather, we have been getting stuck in to the jobs where there is a big plus sign to getting them done as soon as.  The grass is growing under our feet, and we are really pleased about that. The meadow has been topped and we are making the most of Heligan’s half price plant sale and getting down to planting and further beautifying the site.  We have also been “logging” as we can never have too much wood with the popularity of our fire pits, and our own love of our wood burner in the winter.

 

As a lot of our guests will know The Meadows Team (me, Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey) are very keen walkers.  Some of you now know better than to ask one of us for a suggestion for a good  walk, as we do sometimes get carried away wanting our guests to see as much as possible!!

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Gorgeous Mevagissey

Pont Pill (Hall Walk)

Pont Pill (Hall Walk)

The Mevagissey circular walk starting right from our gate which is about 6.5 miles is one of our favourites, and we are now very used to the good climbs.  It is a great walk for stop off whether it be coffee and cake at Heligan, or at the new Cafe on the Quay at Mevagissey serving proper homemade delicious cakes.  Depending on the time of day it could be fish and chips, or Cornish pasty time.  We usually stop for a drink in our local pub The Ship Inn, in Pentewan before setting off on the last mile home up the trail. Polstreath beach which you pass along the way between Meva and Pentewan is lovely and quiet even in the summer as the only way down is via 200 steps!!!

Lantic Bay, near Fowey

Another of our favourite walks is the Fowey Hall Walk, with an extension to include Pencarrow Head, and Lantic Bay (dog friendly).  We talked ourselves in to diverting down to the bay, and we were sooooo pleased we did.  We had the beach to ourselves and the sky was blue, and it was just amazing.  It is a very tricky climb down, but apart from the steepness the climb back up seems somehow easier.  Lunch stop was at The Luggar Inn, Polruan and the walk has two different ferry rides along the way.

 

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Roseland Peninsula

To go with a very good walk, we like a good lunch and have enjoyed a few lunches out as we have really been missing those.  The Sharksfin at Mevagissey is excellent for fish, and I love their crab sandwich with a bowl of chips.  One of our favourite areas for walking is the Roseland Peninsula.  On Sunday we had a walk around St Anthony’s Head, a paddle in the sea, and a cup of tea with Thirstea the old Citreon H Van that visited us here in the summer at Town Farm.  On the way home, we stopped off at the very cosy Roseland Inn at Philleigh for lunch which was lovely, and the pub was full.

One of our other favourite pub lunches is at The Pandora Inn near Mylor on the Carrick Roads.  This is a beautiful area with lovely creekside walking. The walk around to the pub from Mylor is lovely with great views of the boats and fabulous waterside properties.  It was a very sunny day, but the wind was a little too chilly to brave lunch sitting on the pontoon.  We opted for mussels (me) and our two friends, and John had a pulled pork sandwich with spiced apple chutney.  Food was all delicious, the sandwich was huge and full of pork, and another cosy pub with log fires.  Both pubs highly recommended, and both dog friendly, as of course Harvey accompanied us on both occasions.

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Luxulyan Valley

Our guests shady walk during the many really hot days last season as the Luxulyan Valley, known as the hidden valley. This is our mizzly walk as there is lots of tree cover, although soon to be less when all the leaves are off.  This walk is beautiful whatever time of year, and great if you like walking next to water.  The pub in the village itself is on our list of ones to try as we have good reports.

Whilst out and about, we have been getting inspiration for our winter work at The Meadows, and we have some good ideas.  As we have now uncovered the whole of the campsite,  from beneath the brambles, and completed our major work, any more changes will be smaller ones.  We are just as excited about this year’s work, and this is of course phase 3 for us with our second season of learning behind us.

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Deer “up country”

A few days after closing we made a trip up country to visit our families.  We all had a lovely time, and enjoyed lots of walks along the River Soar, and around Bradgate Park, pub lunches, and a visit to Melton Mowbray Cattle Market.  Harvey enjoyed spending times with his cousins, well most of them any way (sorry Billy).

General Meadows News

Bookings – we have now opened our diary for 2015, and have booked lots of guests in already.  Always good to have a holiday to look forward to and we are certainly looking forward to ours!  In case any one is wondering, yes our holiday does involve camping, walking, wine, beaches and sunshine – our winter version of a camping holiday at The Meadows!  If you would like to be an early booker with us for next year then you can contact us here, or call 01726 844383. For new guests, we are a quirky smallish adult only campsite in the Pentewan Valley, South Cornwall. The Meadows is also a very dog friendly campsite.  We are an ideal campsite, for those who like the gardens, particularly Heligan and Eden, and those who enjoying walking the SWCP, or cycling as we are right on the Coast to Clay Trail.

Kernowforno

We are pleased to say that Kernowforno will be here again next season cooking delicious wood fired pizzas.  John will also be serving up breakfast baguettes again, although this may not be every day.  We are thinking of tasty porridge for some days as we know this is popular with campers.  We are also hopeful that Big Pan Parties will come again to cook up their delicious paella on site, and Sams Cocktail Van with Mojito Steve on board knows he is always very welcome here.

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What a good idea

Harvey has been thinking up new ideas for his guests on four legs, whilst also getting out there finding new walks and dog friendly eating places.  Harvey has also been finding life rather strange since the gates closed.  He still makes his way to the french doors in the morning, but cannot understand where everyone has gone.

Hope you like the pictures, which are a bit of a mix, and I shall keep them coming over the winter as it is a good way of keeping in touch.  It also answers the ? we get asked most in the summer ……… “what do you do in the winter?” :).

Lynn on behalf of The Meadows Team

 

 

 

Late season happenings at The Meadows

Posted on October 8, 2014 by Comments Off on Late season happenings at The Meadows
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Chapel Point in the sunshine

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We got through these piles and more.

Oh, another good week, and another good week, and another!  Our guests have been soooooooo lucky this season, and even now when the sun shines it is very warm, and nobody minds a few showers in between.  It has been fab seeing campers sitting out until late in the evening around the fire pits so late in the season, and thank goodness we had such a good stock of wood for our campers.  There has been some very keen walkers and cyclists on site of late enjoying the cycle trails, and good long sunny walks on the SWCP. There has also been just so many beach days in September with swimming in the sea.  Same again next year please would be nice.

Thank you to all of our guests and Simon and Sarah from Kernofornow Pizzas who supported our MacMillan Coffee Morning by eating lots of lovely cakes.  We raised £152.10 for a very good cause, and John’s homemade lemon curd was a real hit.

At present we have guests on site who first visited when the site was nothing more than a farm site consisting of a field and a portaloo cabin some 25 years ago.  It has been very interesting hearing their stories about the campsite and it’s eccentric former owner Bernard.  We have found some old photographs and will be putting together a photo board for next year.  Any visitors from the past holding photos we would love to borrow a couple for copying for our board, and they will be returned to you.

We (that’s me Lynn, John and CD Harvey) have been busy looking after our last guests of the season, and in between we having been making hay while the sun has been shining.

The wild flower meadow with it’s secluded pitches has been so popular  and even more so with our “park and pitch scheme” and the secluded meadow pitches.  Keen to get on the Dexta tractor, the meadow has now been topped right down, so that it will come back even lovelier next year. Farmers Bowler (my dad and mum), arrived just in time to help out with raking up all that we had topped off.  We think for next year, especially with the horses next door we might invest in a little baler, as it did feel a bit like farming vintage style, after the third day of constant raking.

Our campers also woke the other day to find that a very large mole had paid us a visit.  This mole left behind a mole hill consisting of 30 ton of top dressing.  This is being put to very good use, and we are right in the middle of our pitch repairs and reseeding.  The “grass protecta” has more or less disappeared, along with our drainage channels, and our grass should be more like a carpet next year, but note not manicured!!  We know from last winter that when it starts a rainy spell, it may not stop for a very long time, and also the soil is lovely and warm at the minute for grass seed.

As our major works have been completed over the last two winters, this winter will involve lots of smaller jobs, and we have plenty of ideas.  We take feedback very seriously, especially ideas that fit in with the general quirkiness and naturalness of our individual site.  We are not striving for perfection, and indeed some of our imperfections we are extremely fond of, and some things we cannot do anything about!!

Bookings – we are almost ready to open our booking diary for 2015, and book all of you lovely guests in that are so keen to do so for 2015.  Whilst we do not guarantee specific pitches, we do encourage you to make your wishes known as to pitch preference, especially as to your preferred side of the site.  “Proper Campers” again will choose their own spot on arrival and “park and pitch” will continue.  We have been invited to be included in the new Cool Camping Handbook out next year, which we know is the bible of lots of campers and so we hope this will help keep us busy next year.   We are also about to start making some changes to our website, and adding new pictures from our 2015 season.

UPDATE – 14 OCTOBER – we are having “phone” problems due to a telephone coming down and have been without a line for 2 weeks.  We will open up for bookings once this is fixed as without the phone it makes card payments tricky.  Apologies and we are keen to get you booked in too.

For new guests, we are a small adult only dog friendly campsite in South Cornwall.  We are within walking distance of Heligan Gardens (30 mins approx), and Mevagissey (1 hour), and we are on a good bus route, with the Pentewan Valley Trail that links up to the SWCP.  The site is also directly adjoining to Coast to Clay Cycle Trail, but most walking and cycle routes from the site, do involve a good climb.  Due to the naturalness of the site, we are more suited to smaller units, but we have limited pitches for motorhomes and twin axle caravans “up field”.

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Life is generally good at the moment, and I have got my walking boots lined up next to those of my owners ready for “down time” which I believe I have earned.  I have also managed a few outings recently to my favourite beaches  of Vault, Gorran Haven, and as of 1 October the lovely Porthpean about 5 or so minutes drive up the road.  It seems my first day off is going to be spent walking to Charlestown for a crab sandwich and chips lunch along the trail and SWCP, and then back on the inland route.

My girls are laying well, and with breakfast baguettes slowing down, I am back on my diet of softly boiled egg for breakfast with biscuits.

This week I overheard two young ladies on checking in off the night bus from London say that I was their reason for choosing this site.  They were very big cavalier king charles fans and one even wore a badge of them on her jacket, and believe me and whist remaining modest, they are not the only ones!!  This was good ammunition as it was also the day of my annual appraisal when a negative comment on trip advisor about me was raised, and a further comment about me being open to bribes ;).

IMG_7111It seems the majority of our guests have enjoyed their holidaying with us at The Meadows this season, and we hope to see many of you again during 2015.  We will be opening on 30 April in time for the May Day bank holiday fully raring to go. Next year, we are likely to be closing at the end of September.  The Meadows Team will be fully refreshed by the time we re-open and hopefully the small changes we make will be welcome ones.

Lynn 🙂

If I was holidaying at The Meadows this month……..

Posted on September 8, 2014 by Comments Off on If I was holidaying at The Meadows this month……..

Well high season is over, and the county has started to quieten down just a little, but not that much in view of the current fabulous weather.  However, there might be less people about but there is still so much to see and do in this beautiful part of the Country.

These are some of the ways we would spend our days holidaying at The Meadows, Pentewan, South Cornwall.

1. A walk to Mevagissey, and a nice one, at that starting with a good up.  The walk is on the Pentewan Valley Trail skirting around the edge of the Heligan Estate.  We would then have a wander around the village, and then devour fish and chips sitting on the harbour watching the boat and fishing activity.IMG_0957

The return leg would be on the SWCP taking in the amazing view of Black Head, and around to Fowey, then stopping off for a couple of drinks in our local, The Ship Inn right in the centre of Pentewan Village and then back to camp along the river.

2. Everyone is talking about the “Piglets” at the moment up at Heligan Gardens.  The gardens and wider estate grounds always look fabulous but seeing the two sets of piglets just tops it off.

Throughout September, Knee High Theatre are putting on a show Dead Dog in a Suitcase (and other love songs).  The reports are that this is a great performance, and very funny indeed, so good for a laugh.  Heligan Kitchen are serving up a two course pre-theatre meal, and drinks are also being served from the Kneehigh Asylum Bar.

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Crantock Beach

3. Take a ride over to the north coast and visit the fabulous Crantock Beach, walking around on the SWCP to the just as lovely Polly Joke Beach.  You could time this with the Newquay Fish Festival and visit that too, picking up some lovely fishy delights.

4. Travel by ferry taking the Mevagissey to Fowey Ferry.  See dolphins and basking sharks (if it’s your lucky day), but a joyful ferry ride any way.

Whilst in Fowey hop on the ferry to Polruan and walk the famous hall walk returning back to Fowey.  When back in Fowey head to Sams or one of the other many delightful eating places.  Also whilst in Fowey visit the Fowey Fish and Wine Shop, or the pasty shop and purchase some tasty treats to bring back to camp.

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Gorran Haven

5. Spend the day on Gorran Haven, or Caerhays beach with a good book.  You will pass the fabulous Lobbs Farm Ship on the way for picnic goodies.  Walk between the adjoining and gorgeous beaches of Vault and Hemmick.  For the current fabulous weather conditions, of fried eggs, it is definitely beach weather, and we are sure Mabel and Lottie’s deck chairs will be making a few outings.

6. The Meadows team love the Roseland Peninsula, which is great for a day of exploring.  Here you can find secluded coves, pretty creeks and tranquil beaches.  It is an AONB and large parts National Trust and has many dog friendly beaches.

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St Just in Roseland Church

If you get chance visit the wonderful little church of St Just which is amazing.  St Mawes and the walk around St Anthony’s Head are also highly recommended.

For a good feed, The Roseland Inn at Philleigh (en route to the King Harry Ferry) is a fabulous pub, with a brewery next door.

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The Pandora Inn

7. On a nice sunny day take a drive out to Mylor Bridge near to Falmouth and walk around the head to Restronguet and have lunch on the pontoon at The Pandora Inn with amazing views and lots of boating activity going on.

Here  is now hoping that you have booked the extra day for another day of fine walking those cornish ups and downs.

8. Walk on the SWCP to Charlestown taking in the beautiful beaches of Hallane, Porthpean and Duporth along the way.  This is a good walk, with lots of big ups, and fabulous views in return.  You will get a lovely crab sandwich and a bowl of chips for lunch.  The walk back along the lanes, and coming back through Kingswood is shorter,  and an even easier route back is on the good old bus.

Don’t miss the photo opportunity on Hallane Beach where there is Hallane Mill with a pretty waterfall and hole in the rock.

General Meadows News

Thank you guys for more of your amazing reviews. This is only our second season running a campsite, and so the feedback is extremely helpful, and we like to see happy campers.  We know we will never please everyone, but we do take negative feedback on board, and this year, we are still green, but a lighter shade of! There here are some things outside of our control, and also to run this site as a couple and still be sane at the end of the season,  we do have to have a few cut off points.  Sorry if this upsets anyone, as it is not intended, but The Meadows Team will not be in fear of trip advisor!!!

Our campsite is looking very green, and there are always new flowers coming up in the wild flower meadow, and the secluded meadow pitches remain popular.  We had a group camping on the stream wing last week who were very lucky to have a few sightings of the kingfisher.

Over the last few weeks, we have seen many guests arrive here under their own steam taking advantage of the reward they receive for this.  Carrying everything on your back, or on bike trailers deserves a 25% reduction on the pitch price.  There are also far less trips for them with the glamorous wheelbarrow for our “park and pitch” scheme, and we have put some benches in the meadow as walkers are usually chair less, but in need of a sit down.

September is a very busy month for us, and so this means Pizza Tuesday will be continuing for now, and is always very well supported by our guests.  The pizzas are delicious and it is great watching them being cooked fresh to order in the wood fired oven.  What will The Meadows team do on a Tuesday when we get to end of season?!  We are missing Mojito Steve since the opening up off Sams on the Bay.

We are getting around to thinking about work for the end of season.  There are unlikely to be any big changes taking places, as we did the major work last winter. This time, the work should be more about continuing to enhance the natural beauty of the site and more planting and adding character to the site. The first job to do is the topping of the meadow field with our little Dexta Tractor.

 

IMG_7106Bookings

It is very encouraging that lots of you are keen to book for next year.  At the moment, we are keeping all your requests in order, and will be in contact around the end of September/early October.  By this time, we will have made the changes we are being forced to make over deposits and balance payments.  Our late cancellation/no show numbers have now reached an unbelievably (to us),  and unacceptable  high number,  This is very unfair to those who have tried to book when we were officially fully booked, and not good for us as a small business, and it makes admin a nightmare.  However, we are sorry for those who are still in the majority who accept that a booking is just that.

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Apologies on behalf of the team for the recent blip in the weather.  We all tried very hard to chase off the rain, and send it up country, or to stay out to sea.  We failed for a short time, and it was a bit wet and cold.  However, the good weather is back, and we are once again basking in glorious sunshine so all is good for September.

Now is the time to come clean and admit that it was me that insisted Camp Daddy light the wood burning stove in the lounge with the smoke blowing over the site, whilst our campers and their four legged friends tried to stay warm and dry in their tents.  I have taken my punishment and spent time on the naughty seat and will not light the burner again until the gates have been firmly closed.

I would also like to take this opportunity of thanking guests for the many gifts I have received during the season. One can never have enough gravy bones, or prawn crackers, and the big bags of Bakers came in handy when my needs got missed off the weekly shopping list.

DSC_6526Indian Summer

It is at the moment, and fingers crossed the national press have reported it right as extended in to October and beyond.  We have availability for those who don’t mind “proper camping” late season in good weather.  For hook ups, we are quite limited until around 20th September, except for odd days here and there.  After that we have availability for 7 days plus, if you still have your holiday to book.  You can either telephone us, or send details online.

Our Caravans have been extremely popular this season, and they think they need another sister to help with demand.  A Cheltenham Springbok would be nice, if any body knows of one.

There are still dates available for Lottie and Mabel, and so do think about getting cosy in a caravan (both have heaters).

Well, bye for now

Lynn on behalf of The Meadows Team, consisting of John, Camp Dog Harvey and I.

 

 

 

 

 

How lucky are our campers

Posted on July 24, 2014 by Comments Off on How lucky are our campers

It has been, and still is very hot down here in the valley of sunshine.

All campers are happy ones,  basking in the sunshine, and the lovely warm evenings have made our fire pits nearly redundant.  There has been ots of fabulous bbq smells and tonight is cocktail and paella night, courtesy of Sams Vans.  This means a double dose of cocktails this week, but I am sure no-one will mind that judging by the queue on Tuesday which resembled a festival.  Mojitos and Dark and Stormies were the order of the night, to go with freshly baked pizza from the lovely KernowForno.

It has been a little warm for our campers to do the usual long walks that they so enjoy.  Instead, there has been lots of beach hopping, kayaking and swimming in the sea with early morning, and late evening strolls. The current favourite beaches are for those without a doggie friend Porthpean, and of course our local Pentewan Sands.  For those with their four legged friends, Caerhays, closely followed by the quieter side of Gorran Haven, are hitting the spot, and lots have been having a drive out to the oh so gorgeous Crantock Beach on the north coast.  For the snorkelers out there, Vault beach is a good one, and kayaking at Porthpean, Polkerris and around Black Head is a great way to find the secret coves.

This is “Teapot”

Bettyboo

Bettyboo

Camp life is never boring, and each week is so different, with all the comings and goings and different people coming on and off.  This week has been a campervan and bell tent week, with some lovely colourful vans and tents to brighten up the campsite.

Here are a few pictures of our week of sunshine, blue skies, pizza, cocktails and all things different.

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Think of wearing a fluffy onesie all day, and that has been me this week.  Luckily the Little Winnick River is on my doorstep and so each evening, after my duties are done, I go for a big dip in the river to cool off.  Most of our four legged guests are doing similar,  and they are also enjoying long swims in the sea and sunbathing.

photo 4As it is very hot everyone is out side all of the time, and boy are there some nosey dogs on site.  They don’t miss a trick, especially where pheasants and squirrels are concerned.

Charlestown – lots of you like to visit this lovely historic port.  Next time you are there, get your owners to take a walk out on the SWCP towards Porthpean and to take you on to Duporth Beach.  We are most welcome on this quiet beach provided your owners behave themselves, if you know what I mean.

 

Other Meadows News

Wood Fired Pizzas are still proving extremely popular, and so far it has been sunny for every visit, and so that is the season standard.  Cocktails are also very popular indeed, and so far nobody has fallen over, or if they have we missed seeing it!

Camping wings – these are now fully open, and our guests are sussing out the best spots for sunshine, and for enjoying camp life next to the stream.  The secluded meadow pitches are also still popular, and there are always different wild flowers and butterflies making an appearance.

Breakfast Baguettes & Ciabattas – during our very busy period, and in view of the distance to the end of our new wings,  our delivery service will not be available. This means enjoying your breakfasts on our sunny deck, or ordering and returning to collect them.

Bookings – it is now late availability only until the second week in September I am afraid –  the teachers, are taking up all the pitches!!  Please give us a call if you are wanting to come just for a few days, and we will see what we can do.  Cancellations do happen, and it might just be your lucky day. We are a campsite just for grown ups, situate in the lovely Pentewan Valley close to Mevagissey and we are very dog friendly.

Well it is a hi di hi from me, and a ho de ho from Camp Daddy and Camp Dog Harvey.

For those making their way down to sunny Cornwall, have a safe journey and ensure you pack your swimmers.

Lynn

 

 

 

 

For those on jolly countdown…………..

Posted on July 16, 2014 by Comments Off on For those on jolly countdown…………..

IMG_6785We cannot believe that we have already reached the half way point of our second season, and time is certainly flying by. There is a very relaxed, informal atmosphere on site, with some very chilled guests who having been making the most of our pop up saviours.  Cream teas, wood fired pizzas and gooey choc brownies, and Steve’s Mojitos have been going down a storm.

The weather to date has been extremely kind for a UK Summer and fingers crossed it will be very similar for the rest of the summer, followed swiftly by an indian summer for the latter part of our season.  Surely this is not asking for too much.

For those with their jolly still to look forward to, and to help both our guests, and ourselves out as we are all busy people, I am setting out below some information for faqs on the days before arrival, and to save you trawling our site.  As those who have visited us will know, we run the campsite just the three of us, and one of the team, as cute as he is does not always pull his weight so most of the work is left to Camp Daddy and I.

Don’t upset the Head of Security

For those arriving Q “What is the earliest time we can arrive on site” 

We know you are very eager to start your jolly, but we can only dedicate our time to you from 12 noon on the day of arrival.  John’s breakfast baguettes are very popular in particular for those packing up and leaving us on the morning.  Also grown ups often don’t get up at the crack of dawn, especially if the cocktail van visited the night before!! To avoid mayhem on the site as there is nowhere to park you especially caravans and motorhomes, until we have waved off our guests departing the pitches, and then given them a mow and a tidy up.  We are ready for arrivals and inspection, for 12 noon.

This also means that you get personally shown to your pitch, and given the full run down on the local map, dog friendly information, and what’s hot and what’s not, and also what is happening on site that week.  It also means that when you are departing, we will have time to cook you a baguette and make you a pot of coffee to set you up for your journey should you so desire. We are just down the road from both Asda and Tesco, and the fabulous Lobbs Farm Shop at Heligan for stocking up before setting up.

Also as you enter the valley you have the lovely Kingswood with a great parking area, and the dogs on board will leave you in peace to set up if they have exerted a bit of energy first.  Those guests who have been walking, or to Mevagissey for brunch pre set up have suffered far less from tent tourettes (not mentioning awnings 😉 on arrival, and that is fact!!

Q “What is the latest time we can arrive on site”  Our answer to this is at a reasonable time, and to be able to set up in the light .  We are “owls hoot softly after 10pm” and so we would not want you to be setting up any later than that.  If you are arriving after 7pm please do let us know so we know you are definitely coming.  If our office is closed, we live on site, and so please come on to the deck and wave your arms around. If that that does not work, our telephone numbers are on the office door.

Q “Where can we exercise our doggie” We are very dog friendly as those who have visited us will know.  However just as you would not want anyone DSC_6759exercising their dog on your pitch, we do not accept dogs being exercised on the areas that are for the “proper campers”, or other people’s pitches. The trail runs from right outside our gate and parallel to our site, and this is the best for early mornings, and before bed time.  We do of course have a dog parcel bin for you.  Of course the trail is also great for many lovely long day time walks and not having to take the car.

Q “What night is pizza night” This now seems to be important to those planning a short stay, and not wanting to miss out.  Pizza night is Tuesday 5-8pm and pre-ordering is required.  Cream tea and cake is usually Thursday afternoon, and sometimes Earl the van will call in on other days.

Q “Changes to Bookings” Please note that we are now more or less fully booked until early/mid September, and we have turned lots of people away, and made a pitch plan.  If you have to shorten your trip for any reason, then we are very sorry that you will miss part of your stay. However, please note that on arrival we require payment for the full balance of your booking, and refunds will not be given should you leave before the end of your booked stay. We feel we are very reasonable people, and we do not want to go down the line of the more commercial parks collecting payment, not less than 28 days prior to arrival.  Please play fair is what we ask and which the majority do, as we do have to run the campsite as a business, and it is, we feel a very relaxed one!!!

Extending your booking – we will try to accommodate this where possible, but we will not always be able to do so.  Please come and see us should you want to stay longer, and we will see what we can do.

IMG_7114Lottie & Mabel Caravans – as the beautifying takes far longer arrival is any time after 3pm, but again we don’t expect you to hand back the key until 11am on the day you leave.

For those who have reached the end of their stay, and are departing The Meadows Firstly, and most importantly  we hope by then you will have had a fabulous stay, and we hope you will leave wanting to return one day. Our departure time is 11am which we hope gives you time to pack up in an orderly fashion, and enjoy breakfast on our sunny deck should you wish before setting off home.

Reviews – you can give your  honest feedback on UK Campsites, Trip Advisor and Cool Camping.  This gives me the opportunity to say a very, very big thank you to the many of you who have given reviews, and trip advisor seems to be the current favourite.  Thanks to you guys we are presently ranked number 2 for St Austell speciality places to stay :).  We wish we had more hours in the day to respond to you all personally as we appreciate the reviews so much and they keep us confident that we are on the right track!!!!

General – “do we need to book” – unless you are arriving on foot, or on a bicycle an advance call would be wise even if just for an odd night.  However, we do often have gaps between bookings for the odd night  or two.  This means if you are in the area touring this beautiful County we are worth a try, and your luck could be in. And lastly, as of course I could not miss it out and for the final time

We are just for grown ups, and it is simple as that!!!!!!!!  We have now heard all the jokes and more, so please can we have some new ones for August to make us laugh all the way the end of the season:).  

You can also check out our faq for more information, and our website generally including our camping etiquette

Right a quick run down on what is still left to enjoy this summer in this delightful part of Cornwall Fowey and Charlestown Regattas St Ewe Country Fair  Boconnoc & Sticker Steam Fairs The Meadows Paella Nights, courtesy of Sams Vans – subject to there being enough interest.  We have quite a few takers already, so please let us know on arrival.

For any guests who stayed with us in early June you may recognise this fella “Milo”. “Milo” and the girls had a fabulous holiday, and really got out there and explored.  Thank you for the photos Anne, Sarah & Milophoto 4photo 3photo 1Milo pics

Lynn  on behalf of the team.

There’s camping, and there’s camping at The Meadows, Campsite

Posted on June 25, 2014 by Comments Off on There’s camping, and there’s camping at The Meadows, Campsite

IMG_7114Changing to “just for adults”, of course we expected a bit of banter, and it’s all been taken in good humour.  Indeed only this morning, we had a call from a gentleman who said he was ringing us as the adults only campsite he rang first asked if was ok with removing all of his clothes after checking in.  The poor man was horrified as he was only looking for a campsite, for a base for him and his dog to go out walking the SWCP.

Just so we are all singing of the same hymn sheet, here at The Meadows, it is clothes on, although in this heat just the basics are fine.  There is also no naked badminton, or ball games of any kind, and we have updated our camping etiquette accordingly.  Any more questions please, as I am extremely intrigued, and I have to say as a farmer’s daughter who grew up in the country quite naive even at the age of 44!!!  However, 15 months down the line, we feel we have learnt a lot about life on a campsite and it is all great fun.

Oneliners –  The Meadows team have a great sense of humour (good job), and so it seems have a lot of our guests. Just to share a few with you of our favourites IMG_6976– no naming names :-

1. “that’s it then now for you guys, from now until the end of the season, you just cut the grass and collect the money!”

2. “what do you (Lynn) do then after breakfast service, go to your proper job”.

3. “We would love to run to a campsite – I could carry on working as normal, and my wife could just mow the lawns…………….”

4. “I bet these shower blocks are more or less self cleaning” – note -what like the cleaning fairy!!!

5. “What did you both do before semi retirement”.

Supporting local small business

Holidays are extremely important and we want to give our guests the best experience possible.   We have been taken by surprise as to the work involved, especially on the has to be done administration side.  This has meant that our ideas for chef John/Camp Daddy and me Camp Waitress and GD have been put on hold for the time being.

However, we are very lucky to have some fabulous and talented locals who are happy to come add to our guests experiences, and so far these are a very big hit. Firstly, we have the regular Tuesday night pop up wood fired pizza night between 5-8pm.  This is going down extremely well with our campers, many of whom are real foodies and so the locally sourced produce for the toppings is a real treat. The pizzas are cooked freshly to order on the wood fired oven and many guests enjoy theirs on the deck.

To accompany the pizzas, when the sun is shining, and we he can we have Mojito Steve serving up cocktails out of Sams Van.  The first night was the perfect night for it, clear blue sky and a lovely chilled atmosphere on our deck.  Even Camp Mummy and Camp Daddy enjoyed a few gorgeous Mojitos.  Mojito Steve will be making impromptu cocktail visits throughout the season on fine evenings.

 

We also have regular visits especially at the weekend by Thirstea Company serving up tea, coffee and cakes out of Earl the Citreon H Van.  Seth and Jodi also do cream teas on the go. Being sited just inside our entrance holidaymakers and locals enjoying the trail are also welcome to pop in for a cuppa and cake.

 

Other Meadows News

Well this season has got off to a great start with so much hot and sunny weather.   Our campers have been enjoying the fine beaches around, and Gorran Haven, Hemmick, and Caerhays have been the particular favourites .  Swimming in the sea in June is a real treat.  It has also been so much warmer in the evenings, and there has been lots of bbqs and fire pits being enjoyed, and so lovely smells wafting over to the office.

Mevagissey Feast Week starts at the weekend, and that will be a real bonus for those campers coming in.  All the decorations are up ready, and there is a full programme of events.

As our new stock of handmade bunting, made by the “Bunting Boys” has arrived, we have seen some extremely well dressed tents, and all buntings are different. The Meadow field, and the secluded meadows pitches are still full of flower, and the meadow has been very popular during this very warm spell, in particular the soft meadow grass for siestas.

New pitches  – our new stream side “proper camping” pitches are now in use and the camper vans and tenters are loving these.  These pitches are for campers who like to pitch next to their car as opposed to opting for the wilder camping experience down in the meadow field.

Our new proper camping wing, also opens tomorrow, and we have a group of 10 in to christen the wing.

Bookings – We cannot believe how popular we are!  Some of it has to be down to the fantastic reviews that our guests have been very kind to give of The Meadows.  We are just so pleased that everyone is enjoying their stay with us.  Unfortunately, as a small natural site, we do have a limit on numbers, and we tend to go on the conservative side for advance bookings, as the weather is of course unpredictable and out of our control.  This means for you that we are now only taking booking for last minute stays, (i.e a couple of days before), or those who just like to turn up on foot, or not. You would be extremely lucky with hook up if we can accommodate you now, for anything other than a couple/frew days in between bookings.

News from Camp Dog HarveyDSC_6686

Loving the hot weather, and most of my day is spent under the tree keeping watch on my girls.  I have been very lucky to go out in an evening to Gorran Haven, which is quiet at night, and so good for a bit of skinny dipping.

Kingswood Bar & Restaurant – Just to let you know that dogs are welcome here when the weather is good for al fresco dining on the deck at the rear.  The bbq is lovely on a Sunday evening  On the very plus side, the walk to Kingswood is along the trail by the River and so nobody needs to drive either – happy owners, make happy dogs. This one is on the dog friendly list of places to go.

 

 

 

A few of our favourite early season pictures

Posted on June 9, 2014 by Comments Off on A few of our favourite early season pictures

IMG_7106The best part of our jobs is the wonderful people we meet, and the friendly atmosphere our guests create on site.

We have already looked after many guests and we have been a lot busier than 2013 so we are being kept well on our toes.  There has been such a great atmosphere on site, and we have welcomed lots of first time visitors to The Meadows. We have  welcomed back visitors from 2013, which was our first season who have enjoyed seeing the changes we have made. So far, so good, and the miserable winter is already a distant memory! Below are a few pictures taken  of our lovely campsite, in the beautiful Pentewan Valley taken since opening the gates for our second season.  There are also a few of Camp Dog Harvey who has enjoyed a couple of outings with some fellow cavaliers, so we had cavs on tour. We are sure there will be lots more moments to capture and share with you during the season.

 

Other  Meadows News

Thirstea teaOur guests will be very well fed and watered this season.  Not only are we very privileged to have Kernofornow visiting us every Tuesday evening  starting from 17th June, we also have the Thirstea Company visiting us on a regular basis throughout the season, serving up drinks, homemade cakes, and cream teas.  The first visit by Thirstea  will be 20th June, followed by many more regular visits.  Setting up, and packing up can be thirsty work, as can the longs walks and cycles our guests enjoy so some Cornish delights will be very much appreciated by our guests.

 

 

News from Camp Dog I have been busy updating my dog friendly information, and settling guests in to their pitches.  In between my duties, I have been out and about enjoying some of the countryside, and showing some fellow cavs my favourites haunts such as the trail (to the pub), and Gorran Haven.

Bandanas – I am on to this, as no parcel has arrived from the boys from Lincoln, as yet!  My own has a hole in it, so my uniform is birthday suit only for the time being.  Bunting, fairy lights, flags, bats and all things to brighten up the day – loving them, and they do make us all smile.

 

Look forward to seeing lots of you very soon.

Lynn, John & CD Harvey – The Meadows Team 🙂   DSC_6759DSC_6659DSC_6723   DSC_6711

Wild Camping and homemade pizzas

Posted on May 30, 2014 by Comments Off on Wild Camping and homemade pizzas

IMG_6785Our second season is now well underway, and the three of us are really back in the swing of it.

With the Pentewan Valley being such a beautiful spot, and so close to wonderful coastline, and the famous gardens of Heligan and Eden, it is a popular holiday choice.  Our decision to offer something a little different, and really based upon what we like is going down extremely well.

Park & pitch

Park & Pitch – our meadow field was a very popular place to be last year amongst the yellow flag irises, and ragged robin, and to enjoy the last of the evening sunshine. Whilst not wishing to spoil anyone’s fun  down the meadow field is not really a place for cars, and so it is now a car (and children) free zone.  Our campers love this, and indeed quite a few do anyway arrive under their own steam.  Those who don’t park up in the parking bay which has the ingeniously invented “grass protecta” under the grass.  They then have a wander around the meadow field, pick their spot and transport their gear in a barrow.  There are spots right behind the parking area, and as far back as our adventurous campers want to go.

Secluded meadow pitch

Our campers are loving park & pitch. We have a gentleman in his 70s who we offered one of our more formal pitches up field, but no he was not missing out on the meadow experience and was straight to the barrow.  The owls hooting, and tooting, and the hedgehog visiting for his supper, and listening to the dawn chorus, camping does not get much better than that!

Firepits and John’s breakfast baguettes can also be delivered even to the furthest part of the meadow field, and no-one is more than a max 2 minute walk to our top notch shower block.

The Carnival Campers

Up-field – this area is just a bit more civilised, with electricity for those creature comforts.  Everyone’s requirements are different, and so we have pitches to suit everyone and all formal pitches have hardstanding grass.  New tent pitches now have this just for a parking bay.

Kernow Forno pizzasVERY EXCITING NEWS – the first all singing all dancing wood fired pizza cooking date has been confirmed.  The date for the diary is Tuesday 17th June between 5-8pm on site here.  Check out Kernow Forno’s website for an idea as to what gastronomic delights you will be enjoying.

Whilst all advance bookable hook up pitches are booked up for that week, and indeed so really now until post August bank holiday, “proper camping” is still available.  We will charge your phone, ice pack exchange, and there is a hairdryer in the shower block.

Other Meadows News

Mabel Caravan has enjoyed her first guests who had a really fab time.

imageMackerel Fishing – we love mackerel and our first guests to go out this season caught 35!!  On the same day Chris from Aquila dropped off lots for us and our campers and it was a perfect evening for BBQing.

Dog Neckerchiefs & Bunting – our guests have many talents, and we like to find out what they are.  Thanks to Chris & Martin from Lincolnshire, we have lots of new handmade bunting up around the site, in particular between trees.  We are also now stocking this in our shop.  As Harvey gets asked many time by his four legged friends where they can buy a neckerchief from, Chris & Martin are going to make some which should arrive with us any time soon.  We shall have the best dressed units and dogs in Cornwall.Fat dog slim

Bookings – we are still taking enquiries for advance bookings for the summer weeks, but we have very limited availability, and just odd days here and there.  We are just about to change our calendar to fully booked.  When we do so, we will then take enquiries for last minute availability, for campers and tourers.  Of course we never turn away any one arriving under their steam, who also receive a 25% discount. We are a campsite close to Mevagissey and we are “just for adults”.

News from Camp Dog Harvey

This week we have had an unofficial cavalier king charges convention at The Meadows.  Henry, George, Rusty and Jessie.  We have had great fun without breaking the campsite etiquette. All my friends have enjoyed some of my favourite walks, beaches and pubs and are going home very tired, but happy boys and girls. Look forward to you all coming back to see me again.

An ideal base for exploring

Posted on May 20, 2014 by Comments Off on An ideal base for exploring

IMG_7102We appreciate that campers put a lot of effort in to finding a campsite for their Cornwall holiday.  The campsite has  to tick the majority of their boxes.

If we are lucky enough to tick those boxes then we expect one may be that we are a great central south coast base for getting out to see lots of those special places.

This year The Meadows team became NT “Love the Outdoors” members.  There are lots of NT attractions in Cornwall, and many off the beaten track places including beaches and hidden coves well worth any scramble down, or good walk to them.

These are some of the fabulous NT places easily accessible whilst holidaying at The Meadows Campsite

“Open Country”

1. Lantic Bay and Lansallos – this is a long stretch of unspoilt coast between the lovely Fowey, and the just as lovely Polperro.  Steep coves, rocky shores, and beaches to explore.  Dog friendly.

“Open Country”

IMG_0903

A Roseland Cove

2. St Anthony’s Head and the Roseland – this is an absolutely fabulous part of Cornwall. This is the headland at the eastern entrance to Falmouth Harbour. Remote coastline dotted with gorgeous beaches. The walk around the head itself from St Mawes is highly recommended. A special place for lunch is The Hidden Hut Cafe on Porthcurnick Beach.  There is also a summer ice cream van at Carne Beach.

Dogs are welcome on the Roseland beaches and Camp Dog Harvey’s favourite is Towan Beach where you may see seals bathing.  His favourite pub on The Roseland at Philleigh which has a brewery next door.

3. Lanhydrock

This is described as “the ultimate victorian country house brimming with modern comforts”. There are lots of cycling and walking trails in and around the estate grounds.  The estate gardens are also stunning and well worth a walk around for all garden lovers out there. The cafe there also serves a mean Cornish Cream Tea.

The estate grounds and stable courtyard cafe are dog friendly.

“Open Country”

4. Respryn – this is the lower part of the Lanhydrock Estate with its own car park.  Don’t miss The Old Carriage Drive Walk to Bodmin Park Railway Station which houses a cafe for coffee.  Also don’t miss the easy access riverside path – keep eyes peeled for otters and kingfishers.  Pooches very welcome, and good bathing spots along the way

“Open Country”

Crantock Beach 2

Crantock Beach

5. Crantock, Polly Joke & Holyswell Beaches – these beaches are absolutely fabulous and some of the best beaches in Cornwall.  There are great walks, including a circular one on the SWCP taking in all 3 beaches, and returning via Crantock Common, which is CD’s favourite and he also finds time for a skinny dip along the way. Great choice for your pooch – he/she will love it.

Meadows News

I am the farmer’s daughter after all

Our little old, but lovely tractor has arrived.  It has been working already, and is a good runner.  Here it is fitted with its box ready for bringing up logs from the wood for splitting as our piles have already been dented.

The secluded meadow pitches are already proving popular with our “proper campers”.  The new park and pitch scheme is working very well enabling the meadow field to be a car free zone. We have in flower ragged robin, pink campion and yellow flag irises, and lots of butterflies.

IMG_0186

Mabel Caravan

Mabel Caravan is at long last in situ and looking gorgeous. Mabel is sited next to the stream and at the moment there is a carpet of bluebells behind her on the bank.  Mabel’s first guests arrive at the end of the week for a birthday celebration and they will have lots of fun with her.

News from Camp Dog Harvey

Life here is pretty good at the moment. Spring sun, deck watch and sharing a tub of Roskillys ice cream with Camp Daddy every now and then.  It does not get much better than that.

I am enjoying meeting all of our four legged guests and we have had some very keen walkers staying who have enjoyed some of my favourite walks and beaches.

The first month of being back on duty has flown by and I look forward to seeing many more of you during the season.

CD Harvey x

Join our happy campers

Bookings

“Just for Adults” continues to be an extremely popular choice, especially dog friendly too. Please do check our availability calendar as there are only a few spaces left for most of the summer weeks on our bookable pitches.  For our casual pitches we are always worth a call for a last minute short get away.  For those arriving under their own steam, we will always find you a spot to set up camp.