Posted on January 8, 2016
by Lynn
Firstly and most importantly a very Happy New Year to all from The Meadows Team.
Time always seems to fly by when we are open, but it is also flying by just as fast for our “down time”.
Luckily we were full steam ahead when we first closed our gates, and took full advantage of the dry, sunny weather and got ahead of the game. The grass has been growing even in December.
This time of year, we are a little at the mercy of the weather as to what jobs we can do. This means it has been the ideal time to holiday, explore the County and try out many of the fantastic eating places Cornwall has to offer.
For our main holiday this year we thought we would try something new, and so booked a cruise. John was the organiser, and gave us absolutely no time to think about it, as research and booking took all of 5 minutes, after a night out at The Polgooth!! With no flying involved it did seem a good idea at the time. It was a cruise mainly around the Canaries, but also stopping at Lisbon and Madeira. It was different, in a very good way and it was certainly a hassle free holiday. The only things we really had to think about was planning what to do when off the ship as arranged excursions are not really our thing. We found the Canaries extremely well set up for walkers, with some great walks, and indeed we shall definitely return to La Palma another winter which was by far our favourite Island. We ate lunch in some lovely places and feasted on tapas, and enjoyed sitting outside in November, and we met some lovely people and had lots of laughs.
Whilst having to dress up on the ship was good fun, being a country girl, I was pleased to be reunited with my jeans and wellies!!
Back in Cornwall, we have done a great deal of exploring (the walking and eating kind), and we continue to be surprised.
Walking (our favourite pass time)
With having lots of woods on our doorstep, and the Luxlyan Valley close by, we have only just discovered Cardinham Woods (Bodmin way). These really are super woods for both walking, and cycling, with one in particular very hairy cycle ride that nobody would ever get me to do! There is a fabulous cafe Woods Cafe which is known in particular for it’s scrummy carrot cake.
We have also been out walking on the Clay Trails again great for cycling and walking, and with some fantastic views. You can pop in to Eden, or Wheal Martyn for coffee, or lunch, or even better literally just off the trail is the Knightor Winery doing tours, tasting and often coffee and lunch.
This year we had a quiet Cornish Christmas. On Christmas Eve we were blessed with a day of sunshine and walked to Mevagissey on the Pentewan Valley Trail for lunch at the Sharksfin, of beef tacos which were excellent. When we lived in Norfolk we always used to have mussels and chips for supper on Christmas Eve. When we saw mussels at Meva’s fish stall, we could not resist and so supper was sorted, and our return walk was on the coast path A great day, all round.
Crantock beach in the winter (NT)
Walking, beach style
I like a beach where you can get a good stride out and Pentewan Sands and Par are good for this, although for doggies Pentewan is only good for the winter months.
Another great beach, with a nice drive out to it is Pendower on the edge of the Roseland. There is a NT car park right on the beach and some very good rock pools. We headed out here on Boxing Day and then returned via The Roseland Inn at Philleigh. This is a lovely pub and that day the fire was roaring and we had lovely prawn sandwiches and chips before heading home.
In 40 minutes, we can be over on the North Coast, and so based on which side has the better weather, we have been heading up north walking some days. Our favourite beaches are Watergate Bay, Perranporth (2 miles long at low tide), Hayle and Crantock. All of these are fairly close together and so it is possible to do a day of beach hopping with plenty of places for refuelling.
Eating (our second favourite pass time )
For one reason and another, until December, we had just not gotten around to trying The Hub Box on Pentewan Sands – big mistake!! We ventured out here for our Christmas Party and joined forces with Kernow Forno who were hub box regulars. If you like really, really good burgers then this place is a must visit, but go when you are hungry. The sides are all home made and the coleslaw and burnt end beans were fab, and the burgers delicious and award winning! Unfortunately it is not dog friendly in the summer months – boo hoo, and for us it is now closed until March. However, we shall fit in another visit before we open and as it is right on the beach we hope by then be able to sit outside.
As a result of Storm Frank, we had a daytime without power. We saw this as an opportunity to have brunch out and went off to Griggs Farm Shop. The shop itself is great for outdoor gear, work gear, eggs and pickled onions, but the cafe is just a real treat. I had a half Cornish and John a full Cornish breakfast and it was very, very tasty indeed and kept us going until power was restored. There was even enough for a doggie back for Harvey who had waited patiently in the landy.
On our trips out exploring, and with the guidance of Alistair Sawday’s website, and of course trip advisor we have tried new places. We like cosy pubs, good food, and a friendly welcome so not much to ask! We got all of these at both The Halestown Inn, Halestown (near St Ives), and The Ship Inn at Wadebridge. We always like to have a memory bank of dead certs, plus a few on our list still to try, and a few very special favourites.
Work on site
Our Cornish hedge is slowly but surely coming along. The first part is complete, save for the hedge itself to be planted in the top. The next section is well underway, but the weather has been making it tricky for hedger Tom.
Wood – our regulars will know that fire pits are a big thing here at The Meadows, and indeed many have commented on our wood towers. We have a very good back up wood source, however, we would like eventually to keep up with supply and demand from our own towers. After hearing such good reports from farmer Bowler about his log splitter run off an old Renault tractor, we have bought our own splitter to be delivered today. The old Fordson Dexter had been feeling redundant since we bought our new tractor, and so is pleased to have been chosen to run the splitter. We have made our very own mini production line, so trunk to stack should be a fairly slick operation, or that is the idea any way.
For everything else left to do, we are poised now waiting on the first signs of Spring. However, wood will keep us busy until then, and will also keep us fit.
News from Camp Dog Harvey
Happy new year, and happy walkies to all my four legged friends out there. It is nice enjoying my large garden once again, and getting out and about on some epic beaches. Whilst my owners were away cruising I spent two weeks “up country” with the farming side of the family. I was very happy as in reality I just went from one sofa and log burner to another!
I enjoyed a Christmas time feast of cockerel (lots of), roast ham joint, short rib of beef, and all the trimmings each time, except I don’t do peas! There has been lots of walks on the beach, 3 a day on some days and lots of dog friendly pubs with log fires, and hot chips under the table. Life for me is pretty good, and so on that basis I have signed a new contract for next season as Camp Dog.
Bookings
We are well in to taking bookings now, and indeed some summer weeks, we are already getting fairly limited on hook ups. The system is the same as before, keeping it fairly simple, just how we like things. We continue to add information to our FAQs and keep the information on the website up to date, useful and interesting! To book you can contact us here, or if you would like to speak to us please call 01726 844383. Our gorgeous caravans Lottie and Mabel are also available to rent again this year for a special stay. For newbies The Meadows is an adult only campsite, dog friendly and quirky, on the South Cornwall Coast, and great for walking cycling and campfires.
Here’s to a great 2016 with lots of sunshine and fun along the way.
Lynn
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
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Attractions in the area,
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Tags:
Adult only campsite,
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heligan gardens,
mevaggisey,
south west coast path
Posted on August 13, 2015
by Lynn
With only two pairs of hands, oh and four paws there is always a job to be done running a campsite. Whilst I have been quite good getting my camera out whilst out and about on the campsite, this has not followed through until today as a Blog post.
Well, before we knew it, August was here, and now we are almost half way through August too. Quite fairly, I suppose all our guests seem so far seem to be getting a mixed bag of weather. There has been lots of sunshine, a little bit of rain (well quite a lot on a couple of occasions), and some hot days, and some not so hot.
The very big up side of this summer’s weather is that it is great weather for “doing”. Our recent guests have certainly been doers, and have been out and about on land and sea. Kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding is extremely popular. We have had quite a few guests kayaking between the lovely Porthpean and Carlyon Bay. Of course Carlyon Bay has Sams on the Bay and now a fish bar too, so a great stop off place.
Walking – it has not been too hot for long walks, on a lot of days. A lot of guests are big walkers, and we agree that you see so much more on two legs. The current favourite walks are:-
1. Number 1 – the Mevagissey Circular Walk, heading there joining the trail at our gate, and then returning via the SWCP, and of course also via The Ship Inn, Pentewan and back up the River. A lovely day walk. This one I expect will always stay at number 1.
Number 2 – another great circular walk to the gorgeous Charlestown. Again this walks starts at our gate, joining the trail going in the other direction linking up to the Coast Path. The return leg is via footpaths from Porthpean, and then through the hamlet of Roseweek, and finally back down the river home. Another great, walk, but this is a workout walk as it involves a lot of climbs, but with great views and coves along the way.
Tip –take your swimmers and great spots for a dip are Hallane Beach, and Duporth Beach. Porthpean is a great stop off for a refreshing drink, and Charlestown for lunch.
Another tip – should you be flagging at Charlestown then you could hop on the bus and be dropped off just outside.
Chapel Point & Colana Beach
Number 3 – Starting off as walking 3, and then continuing on the SWCP to Gorran Haven, via Portmellon, Chapel Point (gorgeous) & Colana Beach. There is a circular route back via The Barley Sheaf, Gorran Church town through a lovely valley in to Portmellon, or you can catch the Gorran Bus back. to camp.
Number 4 – This can be car free, by either walking or busing to Mevagissey. Our guests have done a combination and a lot have borrowed one of our walking books for this walk. Catch the Ferry to Meva to Fowey Ferry, then hop on as a foot passenger to Boddinick and follow signs for the famous Hall Walk. Our walking books all add an extension on to the SWCP taking in Lantic Bay (gorgeous). The walk finishes at Polruan and The Luggar Inn is highly recommended for food, especially fish. Cross back over to Fowey on the Polruan ferry and then either bus, or ferry back to Mevagissey. Fabulous day walk, and fantastic views. Some of our guests got to see the huge Cruiser Liner in Fowey at the start of this month. There is never any shortage of boats to look at.
Other highly recommended “doing” days:-
1. Heligan Gardens, of course. At the moment it is great if you can get tickets and combine the gardens, with Kneehigh Theatre, with a pre-theatre Bar and BBQ. Bring a torch as you can walk there and back on the Trail. This show is getting extremely good reviews by all.
2. Kayaking on the Fowey Estuary to the gorgeous Golant. This is not as strenuous as kayaking on the open sea, but don’t be fooled!! All guests who have done this have loved it. We have the full programme of river expeditions in our office, and booking numbers, so go on you know you want to………….
Chris from Aquila. Actual pictures not being accepted at present!!!
3. Camp Daddy organised our first adult only Meadows eCampsite xcursion this month. This was an early evening and very successful mackerel fishing trip. The fishermen and fisherwomen thought positively as all BBQs were out on hire by pre-order that night. Thank you to Chris from Aquila as our guests thoroughly enjoyed the fishing and the fish supper. We had our fish in a red thai fish curry which was delicious.
4. Eden Project, and with the annual pass you can do it in two sessions. Tip – get there for opening time, and get out by lunchtime!
5. Regattas – we have already had Charlestown’s Regatta, and it is currently Falmouth Regatta Week, but there is still Fowey Regatta to be enjoyed.
Pictures – here are some taken over the past few weeks.
ooooops, I appear to have a picture uploading issue. At present new pictures are not being accepted, which is such a shame :(. Will speak to the technical department, and try again later.
Bunting update – a new bunting queen, and a very good one has been found. Laura came to stay with us and I particularly admired her homemade bunting, and home made windbreaks. We now have a good selection in our little shop, although it is selling fast. There is camping bunting, and campervan bunting, and nautical bunting, amongst others. The first batch sold out quicker than our Roskilly Salt Caramel Fudge, which is to the bunting Queen’s credit.
We love seeing all the bunting and other decorations including flags and fairy lights on the campsite. All the decorations and fires burning in the evenings make the campsite what it is. Our guests make a real effort, and all this enhances our campsite, so thank you for joining in!!
Foodie Events – our guests are all loving the food on offer here at The Meadows. Pizzas, fish and chips, and gourmet burgers are all well received. Anna’s cocktails are also very popular indeed, as well as the good Old Rosie Cider, which I steer well clear of with my early starts.
Of course, we also have some excellent eating places near by. The Polgooth Inn, and The Kingswood remain our guests favourites, and if you don’t mind a drive then Sams on the Beach and the Salamander (busable) are also extremely popular.
Bookings – if you are planning a late summer holiday, to tie in with our Indian Summer, then we do still have a little bit of space, although not much. For hook ups, then except for our casual pitches, we are full until the middle of September. For “proper camping” (none electric), we are full until around the 7th of September. In very good weather times, we do offer some late availability, but this is usually taken by those calling a day or so before hand, or just turning up.
We are an adult only campsite, close to Mevagissey, Pentewan and Heligan Gardens. We are a great campsite for those who like walking and cycling in the day, and campfires, relaxing, and food in the evenings. All well behaved dogs (and other pets) are welcome.
Walkers & Cyclists – just a reminder that you don’t need to advance book and you can just turn up. We will always find you a spot, and the pitch price is discounted by 25%.
News from Camp Dog Harvey – there has been a lot of temptations in my office this season, but so far I have managed to resist. I did also start to flag a little in July, but revived myself with my very short back and sides. There has been some lovely visitors to the campsite, and Wink (the one eyed pug) was one of my favourites. I was also very pleased to see the return of the trio of cavaliers who stayed last year. As well as dog, cat, parrot and tortoise visitors there has been lots of wildlife spotting on the campsite. We have had a family of hedgehogs, barn owl, very large slow worm, and so many different birds, moths and even baby bats. One of our guests was lucky enough to watch a barn owl flying over the site, as most guests only hear them.
Finally ……………..Well, for those whose holiday has been enjoyed, thank you very much indeed for choosing to stay at The Meadows. Thank you also so much for all the lovely reviews, message and pictures that you have taken the time and trouble to post/send. These are great for newbies thinking of booking to stay with us. For those who have their holiday still to look forward to, we shall see you all very soon.
Lynn (on behalf of The Meadows team of 3)
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
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Attractions in the area,
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Eating Out,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
Mevagissey,
Uncategorized,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
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Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
camping cornwall,
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Eden Project,
Foodie,
Fowey,
heligan gardens,
Pentewan Valley,
south west coast path,
SWCP,
the meadows campsite
Posted on November 6, 2014
by Lynn
More wood piles required
Our 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!!
Gorgeous Mevagissey
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Eating Out,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
New owners at The Meadows,
Renovation Work,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
camping cornwall,
Dog friendly,
dog friendly campsite,
Eden Project,
Fowey,
heligan gardens,
just for adults,
mevaggisey,
south west coast path,
SWCP,
Walking around St Austell,
Walking holiday in Cornwall
Posted on March 13, 2014
by Lynn
Cd meeting new guests
If you are wanting company on your next camping trip, then your doggie is likely to be the most enthusiastic member of the party.
Dogs love camping for dog and people watching, and for just getting out there and exploring the area for all the new sniffs, and exciting places to be discovered.
These are our very own Camp Dog Harvey’s tips for any pooch about to embark on its first camping trip
Out & about in the name of research
1. Gen up on the local dog friendly beaches, pubs and other attractions prior to the trip. If you are staying with me here at The Meadows, then I have done this research for you so please check out my page.
2. If your owners snore (like one of mine does) consider taking your own dog tent with your favourite bed to ensure you get a good peaceful nights sleep.
3. Talking sleep, be sure to get lots in prior to the trip and a health check so that you are bursting with energy for all of those long walks, and swims in the sea and rivers.
4. For summer camping get a “holiday haircut” and consider treating yourself to a Cool Coat for staying cool in the hot summer months.
Head of Security doing his rounds
5. Check out the campsite’s camping etiquette prior to travel as misbehaving dogs are not popular with fellow campers, so likely to miss out on gravy bones. For any short comings, consider attending an intense dog behavioural class, or you might get on the wrong side of Head of Security (at The Meadows its me!)
6. Ensure your owners pack a good supply of your own beach towels for drying your sandy bottom.
7. Be sure to check that your collar is tagged up with a mobile telephone number, just in case your owners try to lose you ;).
8. Find room in the cool box for all your favourite meats for cooking on the BBQ. After all this is your holiday as much as theirs, and you will need lots of good food after enjoying long walks on the coastal path.
Enjoying fat dog slim bics
9. One tip just for the lasses – if you like the idea of a holiday romance with the campsite’s camp dog, then like me working out pre-season on my six pack, you might want to go on my fat dog slim diet for a few weeks prior to your trip.
Other Meadows News
Blue Jobs – for all you men out there, who love a gossip we now have an extra dish washing sink. This means when picking the sink in the middle, if the person on the left is gossipless, then you might be luckier with the person on the right. Apparently all the top tips are learnt whilst washing up.
Land drainage – if anyone had told me even 6 months ago I would be excited watching water flowing out of a pipe, and checking ditch levels I would never have believed it. I think the challenge the weather placed upon us only made us hardier and more determined to complete this work, even if this meant working on planks for weeks!! Now on to the beautifying stage, The Meadows is once again coming in to its own, and with the current sunshine The Meadows really is a special place.
Spottings – we love wildlife at The Meadows. We have regulars such as woody woodpecker, a nuthatch, a resident pheasant, and tits and finches in abundance. We are also very lucky to have lots of vocal owls, and a camera dodging kingfisher, and the trout in the stream are no longer considered tiddlers.
Bookings – advance bookings are always most welcome for a camping/touring pitch, or to stay in one of our caravans. You can book here or telephone 01726 844383. For any returning guests, we are sure you will really enjoy seeing the changes we have made on site. For new guests, The Meadows is an adult only, and very dog friendly campsite in South Cornwall, near to Mevagissey, and ideally placed for Heligan (walking distance) and Eden. We look forward to seeing you all during this season.
Posted in:
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Dog Friendly Pubs,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
camping site near Eden project,
Dog friendly,
dog friendly campsite,
Dog friendly pubs,
Dog friendly walks,
Eden Project,
heligan gardens,
south west coast path,
SWCP,
the meadows campsite
Posted on March 2, 2014
by Lynn
Well March is here, and everything crossed that this is the turning point for the weather. The weather is certainly a lot quieter, and there is a lot of lovely warmth in the sun when it is shining.
We are very well placed here at The Meadows Campsite, Pentewan for getting out and about, and no part of Cornwall is very far away. As we have had less than our fair share of sunshine recently, we like to ensure that on the occasions the sun is just with the North Coast, that we go in search of it and enjoy.
It is a half an hour drive over to the north coast, and of course the contrasting coastline is lovely to see any way. Camp Dog Harvey and I thought we would go and check out a particular area for our guests good for a day trip. It is always good to have someone do the research for you.
First stop – Crantock Beach. Camp Dog’s favourite beach in Norfolk was Holkham, and this beach did remind us of so much of the Holkham dunes. Crantock itself is a beautiful village, with lots of lovely little cottages, and a cafe, 2 pubs and a shop. For the beach there is a large NT car park right next to the beach itself. The beach is dog friendly, large, so great for a good run around, and absolutely gorgeous. Joining the SWCP there are then some lovely walks, and we set off in the direction of Holywell Bay, and the other direction would take in the River Gannel Estuary.
This walk was fantastic with lots of little diversions on the way, depending how close to the edge you like to get. It started over a grassy common area, with views over Crantock and passing by a nice bar and bistro which getting the timing right would make a good place for a stop off. On this occasion, we had taken our flask with us.
In the summer, there looks to be a super cafe accessed by a foot ferry. Check out www.fernpit.co.uk
En route we came across the most fantastic beach, and I have to say on a par with Caerhays and Hemmick. It is a much smaller beach than Crantock, dog friendly again, golden sands, rocks and caves. It was very quiet indeed, and Camp Dog had warmed up enough to appreciate a dip in the sea. We then sat on the hill at the top of the path out, and enjoyed coffee and chocolate biscuits (me) and water and boneo (CD). There is also a pub along the way, so more than one option for a stop off.
Holywell Bay was also very nice, and there is a pub, and also a car park next to the beach so the walk could be done the other way around, as Crantock is better for lunch (in my opinion). This walk is 3.5 miles, so a nice length. Returning, with the diversions on the path, you can make it a different walk, and as soon as we could, we dropped down on to Cranctock Beach, and so walked the last mile on the beach.
Marks for the walk – 10 out of 10 from both CD & I. Also CD had a bath in the sea, and then straight in the car, so no proper bath required.
Second Stop – Perranporth – lots of our guests last season talked about Perranporth. It came highly recommended as a sandy dog friendly beach with a dog friendly pub right on the beach (The Watering Hole). We did not think that much to Perranporth itself, not for any particular reason, but yes the beach is good. The pub has lots of tables outside with great views, and so I enjoyed a proper coffee after our lovely walk on the beach, and took in those views. Yes, I can see why this beach is popular and worth a ride out to.
Third stop – St Agnes. This is now a bit further down and towards Truro. Lovely large picturesque village, and the best of both. Very nice little shops, choice of eateries, galleries, and also a lovely beach, (one of 4) with a pub, fish and chip shop and great walking. We did not spend long enough here, and indeed thought it a place that warranted a full day for a good explore. However, we did head off on the St Agnes Beacon Scenic drive, before our last stop which was
Fourth and final Stop – Chapel Porth – as members of the NT Love my Outdoors, I had seen this in the guide book, and as we were so near thought I would drive down. It is a very steep narrow drive down (not my favourite), but there is a lovely cove, and a very nice cafe. There was a stream running through, and this looked to be a good place for walking that part of the SWCP, which lots were doing. Again, another place to return to, as on googling Chapel Porth on my return, it looks for scenic walking, and this is now a walk on my list www.southwestcoastpath.com/walksdb/201
All in all a great day out, and CD snored loudly all the way back to camp, in the back of the Landy
Other Meadows News
The land drainage work is now complete on site for which we breathed a huge sigh of relief. The weather was very unkind for work of this type, but now onwards and upwards. The pitches are all now getting ready for guests, and we are “beautifying” the campsite. We still have lots to do, and one job I keep trying to get to the top of the list if Mabel Caravan’s garden. Mabel is having a pitch by the stream. For the gorgeous summer on order, there is to be al fresco dining, and lots of sitting in the sunshine.
Plants and the like are now starting to grow. Primroses are on their way on our pretty stream bank, and the yellow flag irises are starting to sprout too in the meadow and wooded area.
As there is still lots to do, we always do a list at the start of the week to keep us all focused and working hard.
STILL HOT NEWS – new for 2014 – Kernowforno will be visiting weekly through the season cooking delicious wood fired pizzas for our guests. We are indeed very excited about this, as you can never eat too many homemade pizzas.
It’s a camp dog’s life
News from Camp Dog Harvey – a little q & a, to give you a little more insight in to my world
Q – My favourite sleeping spot – A – On the back of the settee
Q – My favourite treat – A -prawn crackers
Q – My favourite walk – A – a round walk on the Pentewan Valley Trail to Mevagissey, and back on the SWCP.
Q -My favourite beach A – Hemmick Beach, closely followed by Crantock Beach just discovered.
Q My favourite pub – A The Polgooth Inn, very closely followed by the Roseland Inn
Q – My favourite haircut – A – short school boy style, and definitely not the woolly sheep look.
Bookings – we remain extremely surprised, and very pleased at the popularity of our change to “just for adults”. Indeed, my next job is to mark up some weeks where we now have limited availability for hook up pitches. If you are wanting to holiday with us here at The Meadows, especially in July and August, then please confirm your booking as early as possible so as not to be disappointed. You can book here, or by telephone – 01726 844383.
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Attractions in the area,
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
Renovation Work
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
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Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
dog friendly campsite,
Dog friendly pubs,
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meadows campsite,
mevagissey,
Pentewan Valley,
south west coast path,
SWCP,
the meadows campsite
Posted on January 27, 2014
by Lynn
The Meadows Team (that is me Lynn, Camp Daddy John, and Camp Dog Harvey) enjoy nothing more than a good long walk , especially in Cornwall.
Being very busy on site with our groundwork, this year we are staying in the County, but even so we will not get to do any where near all the walks we would love to do.
John and I both love the Cornish coastline (SWCP) and the lovely little bays, and fishing villages usually with a characterful and dog friendly pub for lunch. Camp Dog Harvey does love the coast path and can be encouraged in to the sea, but loves woods and chasing squirrels and pheasants.
Last weekend we had a mixed weather bag (typical Cornwall), but most of Sunday was gorgeous and sunny. We made the most of both days, and had two lovely walks.
One of the bays we came across on our walk
The first walk was one we had wanted to do for some time, as we have seen it from over the water. The walk around St Anthony’s Head had fantastic views all the way, and lots of interesting features including the lighthouse, and observation point. We extended this walk slightly parking at the NT Towan Farm car park and walking around Porth Creek. Approaching Towan Beach at the end of our walk we were lucky to see lots of seals on the beach and swimming in the sea. This was a good walk for a walk that had seen a lot of rain, as Harvey was able to take a bathe in the sea at Towan Beach, as when we got back to the car, we headed off to our lunch spot.
This walk is another one ticked off from the book that I will be selling this year in our small camp shop. 16 circular walks all close to the campsite, and we have done quite a number now. All so far have been great, with some real gems for great views and little coves.
Favouring holidaying in the UK, and never liking to intentionally leave Harvey out we use Alistair Sawday’s Pub and Inns Book as a bit of a Bible. There is nothing worse than having a less than average lunch in a characterless pub after a good few hours walking when you are ready for some really tasty local food. Last Saturday we had a gorgeous sandwich and bowl of very home made chips in the The Roseland Inn at Philleigh. A great little pub, and so warm and cosy with the fire, and bags of character and Camp Dog Harvey was made very welcome. This pub got full marks and would be a lovely pub for the summer too as there was a lovely outside seating area.
Another pub out of the book that we recently visited was The Kings Head at Ruan High Lanes which is a good one for on the way to or from Truro. This is described in the book as a pub with a heart, and I would very much agree with that. The village itself is a beauty with a Norman font, and a creek that is a haven for waders and waterfowl. John had an open ploughman’s sandwich, and I had pan friend prawns with garlic butter and we shared a portion of homemade chips . A cracking pub with a lovely dog friendly bar, and the restaurant was also extremely popular with some lovely catch of the day dishes on the menu. Another one we shall be returning to.
Gorgeous Polperro
Last Sunday was a great day for seeing Polperro, and we walked over to Talland Bay which was a very popular walk, again with lovely views back over to St Austell Bay. This place is full of character, with lovely Cornish cottages, little lanes, boats and of course a little beach and the sea. Had it not been for some very black clouds looming in the distance, we would have walked on to Looe, but we are saving that for another time. The return car journey was on the scenic route through the back villages, and over on the ferry to Fowey where we stopped for a swift pint at The Ship Inn before heading home for lamb shanks and winter veg cooked by John.
Next weekend we are planning to visit Lanhydrock as the snowdrops should be looking lovely by then. The Estate grounds look ideal for a good Sunday morning walk.
Meadows Campsite News
We never expected changing to a site “just for grown ups” to be so popular, and campers are searching out adult only campsites in Cornwall. The interest has been amazing, and we are looking forward to meeting so many new guests this season, and also to the guests of our first season returning to see the changes. So far, most of the bookings are for guests liking a few more of their creature comforts and opting for electric hookup so it seems we made the right decision adding another 4 hook ups for this season further “down field” and on the sunniest side.
Our first wood tower
Work on site is progressing, albeit it slower than we would like due to Cornwall taking conditions that would usually fall on the Lake District. On showery days, we are managing our wood. There has been a lot of chopping, splitting, stacking and building of log towers, a skill that John learnt on a Norfolk woodland management course. Our logs stores are full too – yes there has been a lot of showery days, and luckily we still have lots of wood to chop and stack. There is still a lot to do, but everything is in place, and this week looks to be much better. It is still only January, and this time last year, we had not even landed in Cornwall. I keep telling John that every day we must wake up with a PMA (positive mental attitude), and the rest is easy!!!
News from Camp Dog Harvey
CD taking in the view of Polperro
As much as I love my mum and dad, I am now counting down to the start of the season and seeing new faces. Getting rid of my rain coat, and putting on my cool coat cannot come soon enough for me. As much as I love lounging in the evening in front of the log burner, there is not much to see in the dark. I much prefer sprawling out on the deck keeping one eye out on my guests, whilst soaking in the sunshine, and the extra daylight hours.
My girls “our chucks” are still laying well, and my favourite every day dinner is a soft boiled egg and bakers.
Caerhays
I am looking quite trim at the moment and am really enjoying getting out and about exploring new places, and returning to some of my favourites. As it is only a short drive away, Caerhays seems to be a popular choice for The Meadows team when time allows for just a hour or so end of sunlight down time. There are pheasants for me, in abundance, and sand and sea to keep the other members of the team happy.
Bookings
We will be soon
For all you adults out there, looking for a traditional small quiet campsite in a lovely part of Cornwall, please do give us a try. We welcome tents (all shapes and sizes) caravans, campervans, motorhomes, converted buses, ambulances, and anything “quirky”. We are dog friendly, and great as a base for visiting the gardens of Heligan and Eden, and the gorgeous Fowey and Mevagissey. You can book by contacting us, The Meadows Campsite, Pentewan here, or by telephoning 01726 844383. If you prefer camping on a more hassle free basis, then we have our caravans available for rent on a weekly, or short break basis.
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Attractions in the area,
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Eating Out,
Facilities At The Meadows,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
New owners at The Meadows,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Adult only caravan site,
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Dog friendly,
Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
Dog friendly pubs,
Dog friendly walks,
Eden Project,
Fowey,
heligan gardens,
meadows campsite,
pentewan,
Walking around St Austell
Posted on December 4, 2013
by Lynn
I find it hard to believe that nearly a month has passed since my last blog.
Newest team member “Digger”
We have been making the most of the dry weather, and really getting stuck in on site. The newest member of the team “Digger” has been working so hard, and does not mind at all getting right in there, and very dirty.
At the moment, we are very much in the middle of everything, and so it is the “during” stage. Progress in all areas has very obviously been made, and the site looks for one so much bigger.
Many of my days have been spent following behind the digger getting out any remaining brambles, and many evenings spent in front of the log burner picking out brambles thorns!!
De-silting of the stream has taken place, which was not John’s favourite job, so he was pleased to reach the end. This has not been done for years and years, and so a lot was extracted. Luckily a lot of it was just the old bank, and so good soil. It has been drying out nicely, and now has lots of worms. It is being used to build the bank back up, and I have been breaking up the soil and raking it. That whole area is getting ready for being rotavated, and seeded after Christmas. The bank is going to get a lot more light after the very overdue haircut of the trees on the other side of the bank. It is so lovely to see all of the stream, as before it was hidden by a mass of brambles. This is our new pitching area, with gorgeous hill views.
On the other side (shower block) afternoon, and evening sun side, we have continued where we left off last year. Brambles out, and historic big humps in the meadow are no more. The trees have been cut and coppiced, and new shrubs are being planted to replace those that have gone to plant heaven.
John is at this very moment digging a trench there, for the cable for our four new hook up pitches. James and Charles our excellent electricians are here today and this is their last job. We have fans in the shower block now too.
There is still lots to do, and this week we have spent quite a bit of time in our little wood attending to the neglected trees and generally clearing so “Digger” can get in for ditching work. December is going to be busy, as that is when our new road, or road extension goes in and the wildlife pond dug out, and ditching work done. This means that there will be lots of soil coming out which will be used on our wings for levelling.
We are certainly keeping fit, with lots of physical work, and in the fresh air, but we are both really enjoying seeing the changes.The valley setting is such a lovely one, and looking back over the site from the wood towards the Polgooth hills makes anyone smile.
Of course, we are both very keen to get stuck in to painting, and expressing our personalities out there, but that has to wait for now!! At least we get plenty of thinking time, for when we get back to the more finer detail. The hay maker, and plough are still waiting for attention too, but there is still lots of time.
We always find time in our week to get out there walking, and exploring. There are so many places to see, and we already have our favourite walks, which we like to do as well as new ones.
Here is a snapshot of what we have been up to.
St Ives
CD Harvey has recently had poorly paws, so one Sunday, we did a bit of a driving tour. We drove to St Ives, and had a meander round this magical place, and a stroll on one of the lovely beaches. After crab sandwiches and chips at The Sloop Inn right on the front, we drove down nearly as far as Lands End, but not quite, getting as far as St Just. We stopped off on our return at Mousehole, which John had visited last about 20 years ago. The Christmas lights were being put up, and we could only imagine how fantastic they would look as they really go to town, but in a very tasteful way.
The drive back was via Portleven, and Helston, and then skirting around Falmouth. It was a very enjoyable day, and we saw lots of places that we shall be returning to as Camp Dog’s paws are now on the mend, and he is raring to go.
SWCP walk – great for dog friendly beaches
We did this walk and gave it a Len’s 10, and it was truly FAB U LOUS! The views over Caerhays were amazing from the first hill we climbed, but I forgot both the camera and my phone :(, so no pics, but a good reason to return. This walk is highly recommended, but you would need either a pack up, or one of John’s breakfast baguettes to keep you going until you return as Caerhays beach cafe is open in season. Two dog friendly beaches on this walk, Caerhays, and also the gorgeous Hemmick Beach.
Mevagissey Harbour
The Mevagissey, Heligan, Pentewan Sands circular walk has been enjoyed a few times recently and we love it every time. Camp Dog loves pheasant time, but it is all in the chase with him, so no pheasant casserole for us as yet.
Postbox at The Pandora Inn
A boat along the way
The Pandora Inn
A view along the way
Some houses only accessible by car at low tide
Venturing slightly further afield, and more than worth it we went off to Mylor Bridge, this side of Falmouth. This is a walk enjoying the Carrick Roads, along the edge of the creeks. A fairly flat walk, passing lots of lovely boats, and houses, with amazing views. The place to stop for lunch is The Pandora Inn, which I spotted in Alistair Sawday’s excellent pub guide. It is right on the water’s edge with a platoon over the water for al fresco dining, serving scrumptious food, fantastic views, and two log fires. This walk was amazing, and got another Len’s 10. Flushing is on our “must see” list, but although it was very close by, we are saving that for another time.
Camp Dog Harvey had his first ride on the King Harry Ferry, and on the other side, we had a very nice walk indeed at Trelissick Gardens. We saved the formal gardens for another time, and enjoyed the woodland walk which was about 5 miles of lovely woodland walking, with great views. The estate is extremely well looked after, and for a mid week day, it was very busy and it was warm enough to sit outside and enjoy our coffee and cake at the end of the walk. Another highly recommended place, and my parents found the gardens to be fabulous when they visited in September.
Other Meadows News
Our website updates are still in hand, and we hope will be live shortly. If you have not already heard then as from 2014 The Meadows is to be an adults only campsite, oh and those on four legs too. Sorry once again to all the kids out there.
Superfast broadband has reached this part of Cornwall. We will have this up and running for our wifi zone by next season.
The wood pile grows daily from all the tree work being done, and so we are looking forward to seeing some super campfires burning in 2014.
Camp Dog having a paddle
News from Camp Dog Harvey
Unfortunately, I have been on “light duties” for a lot of November, due to poorly paws. I have spent quite a lot of my time on the back of the settee keeping watch out of the window to make sure no one is slacking! My paws are now much better, and so I expect to be back on to normal duties next week. This weekend, we are all off to Padstow Christmas food fair, and no doubt I will be sharing the boot with lots of food treats on my return.
I can agree with all of the above comments on the walks and pubs from a dog friendly point of view. The Pandora Inn at Restronguet was my favourite pub, and the Caerhays walk my favourite walk as the pheasants were in abundance around there.
Bookings
Although our website, is on catch up, we are now taking bookings for next season. You can either telephone, or contact us here to make a booking. The Meadows is ideal for visiting the gardens of Eden and Heligan. We are also in a great position for walking this section of the SWCP, and exploring the area on your bicycle as we are right on the coast to clay trail.
We look forward to seeing as many grown ups as possible for our second season at The Meadows Campsite in the Pentewan Valley.
This may very well be my last blog of 2013, so a very merry Christmas, and a happy new year to you all.
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Attractions in the area,
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Eating Out,
Facilities At The Meadows,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
New owners at The Meadows,
Renovation Work,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Dog friendly,
Dog friendly pubs,
heligan gardens,
mevagissey,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Posted on November 11, 2013
by Lynn
Well the campsite gates are closed, and the bunting has been taken down and washed and ironed 😉 ready for next year. Lotttie and Mabel Caravans have been dressed up for photos, and now dressed down for winter, and our small campsite seems very quiet indeed.
To mark closing and surviving our first season I was treated to a new outfit – a green Boilersuit! It takes me back to when I was about 10 and my mum and dad bought me a Massey Fergi Boilersuit for Christmas. The new one has had lots of use already as we have been working very hard “down field”. It is now possible to see all the way down stream to our small wooded area. The view from what will be our new stream side pitches, is gorgeous over the hills with the sheep and cows grazing. The view is worth every one of the extra few paces to the showerblock in my opinion. We are certainly loving taking in the views working “down field”.
Not quite an “amazing space”
For making hay when the sun shines
Before the “big storm” lots of the trees over the stream had already received a drastic haircut. The mass of brambles have also been attacked with some vigour, which is what they needed. Unsurprisingly, our finds have included a haymaker, 15 old aliminum windows, 2 old trailers, and an “amazing spaces” horse box. These are in addition to our other recent finds, and our dumper truck has made life easier getting our finds up field.
The wood we have taken down, has been logged, and is now seasoning, for all next years campfires so we have wood a plenty. Our wood piles are huge, and there is no danger of us running out.
We have almost finished the clearing stage of the work, and the bank area is to be raised from what we take out when extending the road, and creating our wildlife pond.
Our next task which we start on Monday is to de-silt the stream, and we have already made our sandbags. We expect it is years since it has been done, and another task that is new to us, and for which our digger will make easier. Once done the stream will have a much better flow, the water table on site should be lowered and it will look a much nicer feature. For 2014 we will have some new perches for guests to sit by the stream, made by Camp Daddy out of some of our biggest logs.
News from Camp Dog Harvey
Boot-camp is well under way, and is great fun. We have been checking out lots of new dog friendly walks, beaches, and a few dog friendly pubs along the way.
The new SWCP walking book is getting lots of use, although the walks are never followed to the letter, and usually involve an extension or two.
What is amazing is how many fabulous walks there are so close to my home at The Meadows Campsite and which I can share with my guests. The beaches round here are all so lovely, and at the moment, Caerhays is my current joint favourite with Hemmick Beach.
Mevagissey harbour in November
My favourite walk from Camp Gates is the Mevagissey circular walk, especially on a Sunday morning. The walk there is on the Pentewan Trail skirting the edge of Heligan, stopping off at a nice little cafe in Mevagissey for coffee. There is usually a couple of old boys in there who enjoy a gossip! As the “pooch ban” is off now for Pentewan Sands, we return on the coast path, scrambling down to the cove that joins up with Pentewan Sands and finish the last section with a stroll on the beach, and a bath in the sea. We all like this walk, and I am off my lead for almost all of it, and the scenery and sniffs are just fab.
I was sent out on a mission to check out a few beaches close to Camp, and how good they are for those on four legs. We all like Duporth, and we parked in Charlestown and had a very lovely walk to both Duporth and Porthpean along the coastal path. The two beaches are very similar, and both very lovely indeed. The walk and views are lovely too, looking out to the Gribbin Head daymarker and around St Austell Bay.
Carylon Bay from its best side
Carlyon Bay, is a little bit odd. It could be fantastic, and if you look ahead out to sea and ignore the unfinished work it is. This is a great big beach, so great for a fun. Parking is also free, but there are a few steps to climb down. We walked the whole length, scrambled up at the end and walked back on the coast path dodging golf balls along the way.
One afternoon, we knocked off early, and took a lovely walk from the gorgeous Gorran Haven, along the SWCP to Vault Beach. I like this beach, and there were lots of sniffs, feathers, and best of all we had the beach to ourselves. There are lots of lovely walks to be done taking in this beach, and also my favourite Hemmick Beach.
Note to my four legged guests – Carlyon Bay, Duporth & Vault Beach are all year round
St Just in Roseland Church
Gorgeous Towan Beach
St Mawes
St Just in Roseland
Just a little bay along the way
In view of our busy time ahead, we took this weekend off to recharge our batteries. We have enjoyed two long, but fabulous walks around the St Mawes area. We visited Towan Beach, Porthscatho, Gerrans Bay, St Mawes itself, St Just in Roseland and Froe Creek. Here are just a few little pictures of our days out. St Mawes is gorgeous, The Royal Standard at Gerrans Bay made a lovely lunch stop, and the whole area which is really very close to Camp is fantastic.
My girls (our chucks) are laying very well indeed at the moment so must be happy hens. Its a good job we all like eggs, in one form or another and my favourite is softly boiled on top of a bit of Bakers. Keep up the good work girls.
Other Meadows news
The parts of the website, best left to the experts are currently being updated to reflect our 2014 changes. If this is not complete by the time you read this, then it will be so in the next few days. We are amazed how much thinking ahead everyone is doing, though the 2013 heatwave has no doubt helped everyone is doing for 2014. Great though to have a camping or caravanning trip already planned for 2014 to look forward to.
Mabel Caravan – has been treated to some gorgeous bits and bobs ready for her 2014 guests. Being on the classy side, I treated her to some gorgeous pearl fairy lights. I have also made some nice liners for her cupboards, and lots of other bits and bobs. One sunny day, I set up the table and took some pics for the website. Mabel Caravan’s garden will get completed in early Spring.
Mabel and Lottie Caravan are both lovely for a special stay away as rather “quirky accommodation”. If you want to book a stay in one of our vintage caravans, then please contact us by telephone or email.
Bookings – if you want to book in early at The Meadows Campsite, Pentewan, and have a holiday to look forward to, we of course are happy to book you in. Please either contact us here, or telephone 01726 844383 to make your booking. We are a small quirky campsite, close to Mevagissey, and great for Heligan Gardens and Eden. We are also dog friendly, a park for adults only, and cater for campervans, caravans, tents (all shapes and sizes), and motorhomes. The Meadows is ideal for a walking, or cycling holiday in South Cornwall.
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Attractions in the area,
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Facilities At The Meadows,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
New owners at The Meadows,
Renovation Work
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Camping and Caravanning Pentewan,
Dog friendly,
dog friendly campsite,
Dog friendly pubs,
heligan gardens,
meadows campsite,
mevagissey,
Pentewan Valley,
Renovations at The Meadows,
SWCP
Posted on September 24, 2013
by Lynn
Driving in to Mevagissey today, I heard on the radio that we are in for a fabulous October! The Indian Summer was apparently delayed due to the good old jet stream, but is now en route to Cornwall.
Today’s weather news got me thinking, that really Autumn is such a good time to get away, and set yourselves up for the winter months. With all the mod cons now in the caravans, motorhomes and tents for keeping warm on chilly evenings, our hot showers & breakfast delivered to your unit, there really is no excuse not to take time out and visit us here at The Meadows Campsite near to Mevagissey.
I am going to try and encourage and tempt you now to get away, by highlighting some of the simple pleasures of holidaying in Autumn, close to Mevagissey, Charlestown, Fowey and St Austell, South Cornwall.
Long walks on the nearly deserted Cornish Beaches.
These walks are best enjoyed with your pooch, and a good way of blowing away the cob webs, and enjoying the sun lying low in the sky.
Check out Camp Dog Harvey’s page for some suggestions, or if you are without a pooch then Pentewan Sands beach is a good beach to start with. A must for me is to take your coffee from the Gorran Haven Cafe in a “proper” mug and sit and drink it on the beach, watching the waves. This would then be followed by a good walk over the cliffs to the very deserted long sandy Vault Beach.
At the end of the returning leg of the Gorran – Vault walk, you could stop off and enjoy lunch in the lovely Barleysheaf Pub just up the road at Gorran Church Town.
For some more suggestions for walks in the area check out the South West Coast Path website, and in particular the Autumn Ambles for South East Cornwall.
For some fabulous pictures of the walk from The Meadows to Charlestown, and for just some fab pictures generally, check out www.skoobyblue.blogspot.com. Skooby Blue and Simon stayed with us here for a few nights this month. Prior and post Simon’s visit, we had been enjoying the pictures of his trip around Cornwall, on twitter, as he is a fantastic photographer. We felt honoured when Simon did a photo blog on The Meadows, so please take a look and see if you agree.
A cosy pub lunch
With an “r” in the month, Autumn is the best time to feast on a lunch of mussels and chips.
We can show you the route to walk from The Meadows to the lovely Polgooth Inn along bridleways and foothpaths with gorgeous views of the bays. So far on our mussel test, the Polgooth’s come out top. If the day is an autumnal one, then you can cosy up in front of the log fire. However, with the promise of an Indian summer , you could be sitting in the Polgooth’s garden basking in the midday sunshine.
For Sunday lunch, the best we have had so far is at The Crown Inn, St Ewe. This is a traditional inn, and the Sunday lunch is just like your mum would cook, and the pub is dog friendly.
Visiting the Lost Gardens of Heligan or Eden
Due to Cornwall’s milder climate, the gardens are fabulous to visit in the Autumn months. You can expect to see lots of the more exotic plants, and lots of spectacular autumn colours. Heligan also have foraging events, and Eden have a beer festival taking place in October. Gardens and beer, surely go together!
Whilst at Heligan Gardens, take a mooch around Lobbs Farm Shop and pick up some delicious treats for dinner, or supper.
Whilst being completely biased of course, all of the above, are best finished off with a night at The Meadows. You can snuggle up in your tent or caravan, or indeed our Vintage Caravan Lottie. Here you can watch the night drawing in, and listen to the owls tooting, whilst playing a game of cards or scrabble. Electric hook up is a near must, or for the very hardy pack your crocheted blankets to keep out the evening chill. Our favourite autumn warming drink is the South Devon Chilli Farm’s Chilli Hot Chocolate drink.
If you are more than a little bit tempted, hold off putting your tent away for the year, or caravan in to storage. You don’t need to book in advance, but you can if you want to. We are happy for you to arrive just as the Indian Summer makes the promised appearance and pick your sunny spot on site. Should you wish to book, or let us know you are on your way you can do so here, or by calling 01726 844383/07712599745.
News from Camp Dog
37 days left until I am off official duties, and can enjoy all of the above, and more!! Yes, I am now on countdown :), but will continue working very hard until the end of season to keep my guests happy, and well looked after.
Mabel – our new, but old caravan is still in Leicestershire, where my granny and grandpa are enjoying sitting in her having their afternoon pot of tea. Mabel will be arriving on site in October and we are all really excited.
For all your new four legged visitors planning on making your first visit to The Meadows, I can show you dog friendly pubs where they let you sit by the fire and the best dog friendly beaches. Here at The Meadows we are a very dog friendly, and generally friendly and relaxed campsite, in a walkers and cyclists haven.
Posted in:
Attractions in the area,
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Eating Out,
Eden Project,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
Lottie our caravan,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site
Tags:
Camping and Caravanning Pentewan,
Camping Mevagissey,
Dog friendly,
dog friendly campsite,
Dog friendly pubs,
Dog friendly walks,
Foodie,
Fowey,
The Eden project,
the meadows campsite,
Walking around St Austell
Posted on August 6, 2013
by Lynn
The Meadows Team themselves (including CD Harvey) love their food, especially when on holiday. As well as advising our guests about local walks, cycle rides and beaches, we are very happy to “talk and advise” about food!!!
The Polgooth Inn
In Cornwall our Campers are so lucky with such a great choice of local food available, and so many fabulous restaurants and foodie pubs. A lot of our campers start their day with one of John’s breakfast baguettes. The most popular filling is the traditional British Bacon & Eggs. The Bacon is scrumptious and supplied by the superb Lobbs Farm Shop at Heligan Gardens. Eggs are freshly laid, if not by our girls then by other local Cornish girls with bright yellow yolks, and very very tasty. Our girls are feeling under even more pressure than normal, as the cakes we have been making are also being snapped up, and we have lots of guests at the moment to feed. Our deck is full this morning, with breakfasting, as our deck is soooo sunny in the mornings.
The topic is “catch of the day”
As we are by the sea it is so nice so have so much fresh fish available. Lots of our campers have been out on very successful mackerel fishing trips, and have been kind enough to let us sample some of their catch. Catches recently have been good, and one of the local Mevagissey fisherman very generously dropped off a whole big bag of mackerel fresh off the boat which I handed round the campsite. There were some lovely bbq smells that evening, as you cannot beat fresh mackerel on the bbq.
Anyone for a Crepe?
Thursday night is our regular evening for Blue Vintage, and our very lovely Crepe Lady Gill. The Crepes cooked fresh to order on the van, with sweet and savoury fillings have been going down a storm. The Meadows Special is Banana & Toffee. Blue Vintage also calls in when possible on a Saturday which is the main setting up day, with lots of tired people needing a Crepe to perk them up and save them cooking!!!
On the days the weather has been good, which have been more so than not, our campers love to bbq. As well as cooking their mackerel, our campers have been cooking up some real delights from Lobbs Farm Shop, as it is nice to have special treats on holiday.
Camp Dog waiting for his local to open
When the weatherman has been mean, and sent some rain over the Campsite, our campers have been heading off out to eat. Dodging the showers, lots of our campers enjoy the walk down in to the Village at The Ship Inn at Pentewan. In the daytime lots of campers enjoy the circular Mevagissey walk, stopping off for fish and chips in Mevagissey Harbour, and stopping again for a drink at The Ship Inn, Pentewan on the return leg.
For evening meals, especially larger party bookings, the Polgooth Inn is proving extremely popular indeed. The food is all home cooked, with vegetables and herbs grown in their own garden. The menu has a fab choice, with lots of fish, meat, and vegetarian dishes. Without any exception all visitors to the Polgooth have thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and we even have guests eating there almost every evening !!
The gorgeous Sams on the Beach
One of our guests who was camping alone treated himself to one very special meal as he was camping on a budget. After asking my advice of place, and what to eat (no pressure!!!) he trotted off to the Salamander in Mevagissey and feasted on scallops and John Dory. Our guest enjoyed feasting like a Mevagissey King, and the whole atmosphere of such a lovely small restaurant and service. Big thumbs up. Another fabulous place for a special meal is Sams, or Sam’s on the Beach. Booking at Sam’s on the Beach is advisable and for Sam’s there is a nice bar area upstairs to enjoy a drink whilst waiting as there is no booking at Sams.
The Meadows Team are still favouring fish and chips at The Fountain Inn Mevagissey, and as I type this Lottie Caravan’s guests have just shared with me their Fountain fish & chip experience last night. They also got to hear the Mevagissey Choir who were singing both on the harbour, and then in the Fountain Inn itself.
We also must mention Roskillys Ice Cream as today one of our guests was on to a caramel crunch tub before 9am!! It is gorgeous organic ice cream and our favourite is the Salt Caramel although unfortunately it only comes in a big tub, and it is not advisable to put the lid back on.
Food always tastes better when you are very hungry and so it is good that our guests are all so active. Most venture out for the day on either two feet, or two wheels, and if in the car there is often a boat or bikes on board.
Our “Lottie” Caravan
Keep fishing, eating, and generally being foodies whilst in Cornwall staying at The Meadows Campsite.
My new neckerchief
Whilst I am still Camp Dog, I am also living back up to my old name of “HRH”. My heinz 57 friend “Tubs” as in Tubs by name and Tubs by nature 😉 very kindly bought me a neckerchief. I had been admiring Tubs’ red one for a while, and now I have one the same in Blue for Blue Vintage, as Tubs is a member of the Blue Vintage Crepe Van Team.
I am still very busy in my role of Security, in particular continuing to guard the Roskillys ice cream.
We have lots of four legged friends on site for their summer holiday, and I have been sharing all of my knowledge on the local area, including the best beaches, river and wood walks, pubs that give you gravy bones, and as to the best breakfast baguette filling – if you are lucky.
Such temptations for Cd
I very nearly broke Camp Dog rule last week and fell in love, but I held back and remained professional, and we are “just good friends”.
Look out for our sign
For all those not committed to school holidays, September can be gorgeous, and we still have availability. To book a stay with us here at The Meadows small, and dog friendly campsite, Pentewan contact us here, or telephone 01726 844383. Lottie is also available for some of September and for October too. Have a look at Lottie’s page and see if you can be tempted for a special stay. We are so conveniently placed for Heligan Gardens & Mevagissey (walking distance), the Eden Project, Fowey & Charlestown.
Posted in:
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Eating Out,
Fowey,
Mevagissey
Tags:
Dog friendly,
Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
Eating out in Cornwall,
Foodie,
The Eden project,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
the meadows campsite