What’s this “adult only” all about……..

Posted on July 2, 2015 by Comments Off on What’s this “adult only” all about……..

One of the best things about running a campsite is that we get to meet people from all walks of life.S7000293

When we made the decision to change to a campsite “just for grown ups” we did this not with our business hats on, and not because we don’t like kids, we do!  We made the change to offer something different in an area with lots of campsite choice.  We have always wanted to run the campsite, as a couple with the very personal touch.

This is now our second season as “just for grown ups” and it is being well received.  Lots of our guests have children, or work with children but when they are holidaying as a couple want to be around other grown ups, chilling and relaxing.  This also means they can enjoy a sleep in sometimes, and a light night around the fire pit.

From our point of view, it works well, as even when we are full, which we are a lot, with usually only two on a pitch we have the time to chat with our guests, and help them get the most out of their stay in the area.

IMG_7232With no little ones to wake them up early in the morning, we find there is no early morning mad rush for the shower block.  Indeed it is often just before lunchtime that the facilities are at their busiest – Oh yes it is…………..!!  I will qualify that to say that we do often have a very early brigade on too who usually beat me in there for my early morning clean.

We have had a few groups camping with us recently, all having a great time, and all observing our “camping etiquette”. We get a big mix of ages, and there is always a very chilled, relaxed, atmosphere on site, and that is not just when the cocktails and cider is being served!  We had a group of Exeter students here celebrating the end of their exams and they enjoyed campfires, bbqs with goodies from Lobbs Farm, walking the SWCP, and even some kayaking around the beautiful local coves.  Lots of our small groups have arrived under their own steam, and so have also benefitted from our discount.

Mevagissey Feast Week – is on this week, and is a week full of lots of fun events, and lovely food.  The fish feast was especially DSC_6544good, and we have seen some wonderful looking’s lobsters being cooked up here on the bbq.  The music events are also proving popular, and it is great for our guests being able to hop on the bus, or walk in, and so avoid the very busy car parks.

We are also keeping our eye on the Caerhays Cafe for news of pop up events, as with the weather warming and drying up at last these just make for a great evening out with music and food on the beach, and films too.  Indeed The Atlantic Fryer is having to give one Monday a miss here – boo hoo so on 3 August our guests will have to enjoy fish and chips on Caerhays Beach instead.

Lots of our guests have been heading off to the Eden Sessions to see Paolo Nutini, Elton John, Motorhead, the very lovely Paloma Faith. If staying here during the Eden Sessions it is always worth doing a check a couple of day before as they often have late returned tickets and it really is a fab venue.

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Did someone say pussycat????!!

This week we have had a family arrive on the campsite who will be staying with us until the end of our season.  We have mum and dad, two cats, two cockatiels and a parrot!! The parrot is I am sure going to keep their neighbours, and other guests entertained once he has settled in to his holiday abode.

Other Meadows news

This weekend it is the Padstow Vintage Rally, and also the end, and of course including the grand firework finale of Mevagissey Feast Week.

It is is also worth noting that The Miracle Theatre Company will be doing an open air performance of The Magnificent Three on 11 July up at Heligan Gardens should you be with us then.

Of course there are still The Charlestown and Fowey Regattas for our guests to look forward to, and The Asylum up at Heligan with Kneehigh Theatre Company.

Fish and Chips (Mondays), Wood Fired Pizzas (Tuesday)  and Cocktails are going down a storm with our guests so far this season.  They will be S7000002continuing through the season and hopefully in September too (subject to numbers).

This year “proper camping” is seeming to be even more popular, although with some of the gadgets we charge “proper” is being tested!!  Our “proper camping” areas are fully booked now through until September, unless you are of course arriving under your own steam and we will then always find you a place.

Reviews – thank you so very much indeed for all the lovely reviews we have received this season, and for all the pictures you have sent us.  There has been some great pictures of our resident woodpeckers.

Thank you also for the extra special effort being made dressing your units.  It is such good fun seeing all the fairy lights, bunting, IMG_7013handmade windbreaks, and so much more……………  This really seems to be a campsite full of very happy people, and we love it.  Our bunting stock has been depleted and our bunting boys are very busy making bunting for summer weddings.  This means if there is any one out there who is a handmade bunting queen we would be very happy to stock it in our little shop this summer so please do get in touch.

Of course The Meadows Team likes to join in with the oh so important finishing touches,  and so we now have lots more bunting on our stream bank, and blue fairy lights on our office.  We also have so many pots on our deck area and herbs which guests are welcome to help them selves to.

News from Camp DogFat dog slim

Nothing much to report, as I am far too busy following up a rumour that two pussycats have been spotted on site………………… I will just say that I am very impressed with the long walks that some of my four legged guests have been subjected to by their owners recently, as I know these hills. Good on you getting out there and exploring, and working up an appetite for your sausages and burgers on the bbq.  Those only doing half a circle, and returning on the bus have been spotted!!

Top places for doggies this month – Duporth & Vault Beaches, both quieter as you have to walk some of the way. For food, the terrace at The Kingswood, who are now doing lovely lunches too Wednesday to Sunday, and of course The Polgooth Inn, both are in walking distance of The Meadows.

Heatwave – for mad dogs who like sunbathing Caerhays cove is the favourite place for a beach day, with the sea there being on the calm side so good for a cooling dip.

Well, that is all for now folks, and we look forward to seeing lots of you very soon.

Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey x

 

 

 

 

 

 

Let’s not talk about the weather!

Posted on February 20, 2014 by Comments Off on Let’s not talk about the weather!
IMG_6785

We will be soon!

We are very busy looking forward to the start of season, and we remain extremely confident that both the campsite, and the owners will be sparkling by then. There is still lots to do on site, but our plan is all coming together, and everything is taking shape.

The team (that’s me Lynn, John and Camp Dog Harvey) are really looking forward to sharing some of our new discoveries with our guests – old and new.

What’s New – well, that’s new to us

Lanhydrock pool

Lanhydrock outdoor pool

Gardens – On a lovely sunny Sunday morning we headed off to Lanhydrock Estate as this is somewhere we have been longing to visit.  The formal gardens, and house were not open, however we actually really enjoyed a good long walk around the fabulous extensive estate grounds.  There were so many walks to choose from and we took ones off the main estate road walks and did not see another person.  In the summer, there would have been nothing better than a dip in the outdoor pool.  We were of course able to view the house itself and gardens from outside the gates, which look magnificent and definitely something to look forward to for a return visit.

tip view

The view from our tip

Harvey’s new walk – Camp Dog has been feeling during the recent storms, that his little world has gotten a bit small as lovely as the Pentewan Valley Trail is.  As this winter we have been getting rid of lots recycling that we cannot up cycle, I managed to find a lovely walk to enjoy on the way back from my frequent tip run. Before the walk, I must just share with you the view from our local tip.

Charlestown lookout station

Charlestown Lookout Station

For this walk, or the alternative of just a good sandy beach walk we park up in the Carlyon Bay free beach car park. We have done the long beach walk returning on the coast path a few times now.  On one stormy day when we parked up the steps down to the beach were closed as the sea conditions were considered to be too dangerous to the public.  Of course, we did not want to get back in the car, so we headed off on the SWCP in the direction of Charlestown.  This turned out to be a fabulous alternative walk starting off through grass fields with fab views all the way, and passing at the back of the very exclusive Carylon Bay Hotel and some super smart house in Carlyon Bay and the Charlestown Coastguard Watch.  We walked all the way to Charlestown, had a meander around Charlestown, and then wandered back as the view walking in the other direction are of course different.  A very nice walk, indeed and Camp Dog Harvey’s tail was wagging all the way to Charlestown and back.

Eating out – Second visit recently, and just as good The Roseland Inn at Philleigh (en route to St Mawes/King Harry Ferry).  This Inn is really something special, and very friendly to both humans, and dogs.  Fish is their speciality and their crab and pea risotto was excellent, and their home made chips are also very delicious.

Happenings on site

Trout – Since the de-silting of our stream large trout have been spotted.  The ducks are also more frequent visitors and so we may still get a resident duck in the duck house.  There has also been many sightings of the kingfisher doing a spot of fishing.

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Our top notch shower block

Shower Block – this has all been painted out.  The rather small basins in the wet room cubicles have been replaced with some better bigger ones.  There are also some extra shelves going up inside for make up/hair stations, and an extra dishwashing sink going in outside.

Planting – so far we have planted a nice row of holly “down field” to add to the existing row of boundary trees, and other plants.  We are waiting on the delivery to Heligan of their first stock of giant rhubarb (gunnera) which we will be planting next.  Also we de-brambled one area “down field” which is to be left somewhat to mother nature.  For this area we are going to be planting meadow grass, and meadow flowers  in particular for encouraging wildlife.  The RSPB have also sent us some very interesting ideas for planting up our ditches to both be more attractive, and to encourage wildlife.

Prior to getting some tlc

Groundwork – Please feel free to skip this section, but I do know lots of our guests who stayed last season were very interested in the next phase of our work. The campsite road originally stopped at the shower block and then it was grass, with grass protecta for the remanding access section.  The road has now been extended and forks off left and right with a small turning area.  The top coat still has to go on but this will be done just before opening, so that we have a nice clean road for our guests.  To demonstrate road ending, and the non vehicle/wild camping area, we are parking our up cycled plough and hay turner at the road ends.  These make lovely features, and will also stop any enthusiastic drivers driving in to the ditches!!

The Meadows is a natural site, but we want to ensure that when it does rain, the rain leaves the site as quickly as possible after we have been watered.  This work has been our main winter work, of which the ditches are a part, the de-silting another part, and land drainage pipes another.  The ditches and de-silting are all done, the Council have cleared all the adjoining ditches leading to the river then the sea, and so water fires off the site.  The land drainage pipes are all in now running alongside the road, and a lot of the spars off for individual pitches are done too.  During the next couple of weeks, this work should be finished and you can be that will be when the indefinite drought starts.

Lots more “grass protecta” is on order, as this works really well for protection of our grass, and in adverse weather. This will mean all our hook up pitches (including our new ones) will be served by grass protecta, and our camping pitches will also have parking areas with grass protecta.

The site will always have natural lumps and bumps, but some of our excess soil this winter, has been used to fill in any big dips, and to build up the stream bank.  One of the top stream side pitches is also being given up for Mabel our vintage caravan.  We will be getting on with Mabel’s garden very soon, as both caravans are been booked for a photo shoot at Easter.

Food, glorious, food – It is without any doubt that John’s breakfast baguettes will be on offer again this season.  It is also expected that the Blue Vintage Crepe Van will also be visiting at least one a week during busy times, and at least one regular night a week in high season.  New for this season is to be wood fired pizzas courtesy of Kernowforno.  At present we are still working out the detail, but Sarah and Simon should be cooking up pizzas here one regular night a week, which we feel looking at their menu is very exciting news indeed

Weather – I managed to get nearly to the end without doing so, but this has to get a mention.

Apparently, according to the experts there may be a very big up side to the winter wet and stormy weather.  It seems that the positioning of the jet streams means that a very hot summer is set to follow this wet and windy winter.  We will very happily take that, and so please do save all of those umbrellas purchased to keep you dry, as you will be needing them when that sun just get too hot to handle.

IMG_7106Bookings – Just for adults, is a lot more popular than we anticipated.  Whilst we have availability still for all weeks, some weeks hook up pitches are getting limited already.  We hope to see lots of new faces, but we do not want to disappoint the guests of our first season who want to return and see the changes we have made. If you know when you want to visit, please contact us here to book, or telephone 01726 844383.

Mabel – we are still without in situ pictures for Mabel Caravan, but Mabel’s set up will be on a par with Lottie Caravan, and we are now taking bookings from May. IMG_7114As we now have two caravans, there is flexibility on changeover days, and lengths of stay so please just ask and we will always try to accommodate you.

“whatever the weather you can cosy up and feel cosy in one of our caravans.”

 

 

Camping and caravanning in Autumn is ideal for………………….

Posted on September 24, 2013 by Comments Off on Camping and caravanning in Autumn is ideal for………………….

IMG_6785Driving 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.carlyon

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.

polgoothinnWe 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.

 

 

Lottie Caravan is getting a sister…………….

Posted on September 19, 2013 by Comments Off on Lottie Caravan is getting a sister…………….

LottieLottie, our gorgeous vintage caravan has been so popular this summer.  We have been saying Lottie Caravan was on the lookout for a sister, and we have now found her one.  No pictures available just yet, but watch this space……. Lottie and her sister will both be available to rent for vintage caravan holidays in 2014. Lottie can still be rented this season for a cosy autumn stay, as she comes with a heater.  Her beach hut lights also now look lovely with the nights starting to draw in.

The Meadows Team were very quick to christen our new caravan, and she is called “Mabel”.  At the moment Mabel is still in Leicestershire, gettingIMG_7013 ready for her journey down to Cornwall to meet her sister Lottie.  Mabel is another Castleton Vintage Caravan, but a different model to Lottie, and has her own personality. Castleton Caravans are quality caravans, (the Rolls Royce of their time) and it is unfortunate that their members’ club closed down in August this year. We had hoped for a members trip to The Meadows, and a line up of different Castleton Caravans. Mabel is going to be sited next to the stream, looking down the meadow field, and is a good sized two berth caravan.  My head is full of ideas, for making Mabel beautiful and fun, and so I cannot wait for her to arrive on site, so that I can get stuck in. This is one of many autumn/winter projects for The Team, and Camp Daddy will be in charge of Mabel’s outdoor space.

We have had some very hardy campers staying with us this week, who have managed to smile through the rather poor weather.  Those who picked this IMG_7085week, have been very unlucky, but they have still had a good time. Our campers still got out and about in their wet weather gear and wellies, enjoying the local walks, and escaping the rain in the many fine pubs, that we are lucky to be near to.  The lucky campers are going to be those joining us this weekend, as next week looks to be lovely and warm, with quite a lot of sunshine.  That will make next week a fabulous week for long walks, pub lunches, and back to camp for a cosy evening in your caravan, campervan, or tent. Looks like great evenings next week for sitting out with a firepit, toasting marshmellows :).

We have hook up pitches available next week, and “proper camping” pitches for the hardy autumn campers out there.  Hardy campers, can visit at least knowing that they have fab hot and powerful showers to warm them up.  Lottie Caravan is also available Friday, to Friday for either a weekly or short break stay.  Lottie has a lovely view right down the meadow field so great for watching camp life, and it looks like deckchairs on the beach weather so they are all there ready to go.

IMG_6785So for all those lucky folk out there, who have either picked this coming week to take their holiday, or those who can just pack up and go we would love to see you.  You can book in advance, or just turn up and choose your spot on arrival. Contact us here, or telephone 01726 844383. Check out my last blog, to see all the events still happening in the area, for those  days off from walking & cycling!

News from Camp Dog Harvey

The ratio of females to males in this Meadows Team is rather worrying!! I now understand we have Mabel arriving on site shortly.  I shall be checking Mabel out, as soon as she arrives on site.  Camp Daddy and I have our own ideas to balance up the numbers.

 

I have had a school boy hair cut recently, and so am looking very smart.  My shorter hairstyle also shows off my neckerchief to a treat.  Unfortunately (for me) the “its all hair” not longer works, so it has to be muscle from all the hard summer work.

The best news of all is that in return for all of my hard work over the season, and ready for “down time” my wish for a log burner for my lazy winter Fat dog slim evenings has been granted.  I do not have any difficulty with communicating that I want the burner lighting, as I had lots of practice in my old home.  There is also no doubt in the house, about who has pole position when the burner is lit.  All my hard work over the summer has been worth it just for that!!!

The deer have been spotted on site again recently, and the owl continue to hoot and toot loudly at night.

Polgooth InnI enjoyed my first night out since Camp Gates opened this month.  The choice as to where to go was mine, and I opted for The Polgooth Inn.  Being seated under, not around the table the carpet is comfy, I get treats, and my owners are very happy as the food is so good.  The Polgooth is very dog friendly, and just as humans like people watching, the Polgooth is good for a bit of dog watching.

 

We hope to see you soon, and before the end of our season if you can make it. If you have not been before, The Meadows is a small dog friendly campsite in Cornwall, on IMG_7102the edge of Pentewan, and close to Mevagissey. We are ideally placed for walking as there are lots of walks on the doorstep including a walk up to Heligan Gardens on the Pentewan Valley Trail.  We are also close to Charlestown, Fowey and the famous Eden Project.  The site directly adjoins the Pentewan Valley Trail, which forms part of National Cycle Route 3, and also links up for walkers to the SW Coast Path. We also have bus stops either side of the road, and so this makes holidaying in a motor home much easier.

 

 

 

The last of Cornwall’s Summer Festivals, and they say the best are left until last….

Posted on September 12, 2013 by Comments Off on The last of Cornwall’s Summer Festivals, and they say the best are left until last….

With this being our first season, The Meadows Team (me, Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey) are very much in to getting “in the know”. We want to ensure that our guests experience as much as possible during their stay with us, whether this be on a foodie element, or walking and cycling around the area.IMG_6820

We are extremely pleased to learn that there is still so much going on during the months of September and October.  This makes September and October an ideal time to spend some time down in the South West where the colder weather arrives much later than up North.

With Camp Dog Harvey’s assistance, I have been carrying out my research, and here are some of the things The Meadows Team would be enjoying if we were on holiday in Cornwall, basing ourselves at the lovely Meadows Campsite, Pentewan.

imageFirstly, what is happening at Eden – Camp Chef would have been down to Eden this week checking out the celebrity chefs, and picking up some top tips, and foodie treats.  If you are already here, then you can still hot foot it to Eden for the latter part of Celebrity Chefs Week which finishes on 15 September. There is then only a small break in between, and The Chilli Festival starts on 21 September, followed fairly swiftly after by Beer, Wine & Cider Week, and then a just beer day. How good does all of that sound, as it sounds great to me.

After all of the above, visit the Baobab Festival 7-13 October, and find out more about the super fruit, which you may by then be in need of for Vitamin C.

For more information on these extra special events visit www.edenproject.com

Secondly, we have “Festivals” – These festivals, appear on the whole to be geared towards food, drink, art and music, so “very nice” things that most of us enjoy.  The only down side is that a lot of very good events are being held on the same weekend – not the best planning, but if you want to visit more than one at least make it a long weekend trip.

Healey’s Cyder Farm are holding their first ever cyder and music festival in their famous orchards.  100 ciders (and ales) and 100 live acts during the weekend 27-29 September.

Cornwall, Food & Drink Festival– this will be held on Lemon Quay, Truo.  The regular and the giant farmer’s markets are extremely popular, and this festival will be a great one, as the local produce is so fabulous and plentiful.  Truro is also a great place for a festival, and around 40k visitors are expected.  I expect a certain member of The Meadows Team to go and check this one out, and report back to the other team members with some goodies and to cook up something nice.

Looe Music Festival – this is a little further afield from us at The Meadows.  However, if you just want to dip your toe in and attend one of the performances, and not be slap bang in the middle of music all weekend, a good place to visit during an extended weekend break. Again 27-29 September is the date for this festival!!

The Greenway Pro Charity Event – again, a little further afield from us at St Ives, but looks very good. This festival brings together surfing, live music arts and friendships.  A great event for non-surfers just to watch some of Europe’s finest surfers out on the water competing. This festival runs 17-21 September.

Boscastle Festival – This is a food, arts and crafts event.  Paul Ainsworth of Number 6, and Andy Appleton of Fifteen Cornwall, are to be doing cookery demonstrations, so Camp Daddy would like to be attending this one. Just the picture I have seen of fresh lobsters, and crab is enough of a temptation.

Thirdly, we have a local event. M. A. Grigg Country Store Open Day –  Another event for the popular September weekend, this one being Saturday 28th September.  We love Griggs any way, especially lunch at their cafe.  This open days include trade and craft stands, pets corners, and an auction. Griggs Country Store, is just up the road from The Meadows Campsite at Pendennis, Sticker.

deb's pictures 024Now, we know Campers are hardy people, and Cornwall is known for its much milder temperatures. Forget an expensive Hotel, or B&B, as it is too early to spend evenings indoors.  Save your money to spend at The Festivals, on lovely food to cook on the BBQ back at Camp. Enjoy being wrapped up in a blanket in the evening next to your firepit with a glass of Cornish Rattler Cider.   We are known for our hot powerful showers to keep you warm, and enjoy one of John’s breakfast baguettes and a pot of coffee or tea to set you up for the day ahead.  You could also cosy up in Lottie Caravan, enjoying dinner by beach hut lights, looking out over the meadow field.  I hope I am setting the scene, and getting you all on your way to The Meadows, for a late season camping or caravanning trip.

In between all of the above festivals, there are so many lovely walks and cycle rides to be enjoyed and best of all these and fresh air are free!!  The south west coast path and the Pentewan Valley Trails  are all so much quieter now, and all of the little coves look lovely, and very different out of high season.

Of course, also on this popular weekend of 27-29 September, we have our guests visiting us for the Geo Caching Event.  It is not too late to book for this, and this is a great out doors event in a lovely area, spending time with like minded people.

Other Camp News

The Team are very busy planning our winter work.  We know our guests love the wildlife our site attracts, and the informal way of our pitches, and the natural features such as the stream and meadow flowers.  All of these things, we love too, and our work is to further enhance the natural special features, but to improve the condition of the land which before we arrived had been unmanaged for many years. One of our first jobs is the expose the rest of the stream right down to the woodland, as pitching next to the stream has been so popular. We will keep you updated on the changes as they are made whilst camp gates are closed.  Other works involves a digger, lots of wood, stilts, and the need some big muscles, and lots of hard work!!

News from Camp Dog Harvey image

I am really enjoying September as it is that bit cooler, and my day time sleeps are less disturbed.  I have also enjoyed some down time, and so have been making lists of all of the lovely places my four legged guests have visited, and which I shall be off to when camp gates close. September has been the month for “one man and his dog”, with the “dog” usually being a Collie, and camping in the meadow.  I never like to stand too close to a Collie, as they give me a “tubby” complex.

We had a visit from a genetleman from the Environment Agency this week, testing our stream.  It would seem there are Otters in the valley, and so Camp Daddy is going to make some Otter houses to encourage them to make homes here at The Meadows.

The Owls and from the hoots, there are many of them are particularly vocal at the moment.  I like to go out in the garden and listen to them last thing at night before retiring to my Harvey bed for the night.  The owl box is still vacant, but I think it will be snapped up soon.

IMG_7102If you want to come and spend time at The Meadows, dog friendly Campsite, on the edge of Pentewan, close to Mevagissey, Fowey and Charlestown we would love to see you.  You can contact us here if you want to book, or telephone 01726 844383.  If you want to surprise us, or keep us on our toes, you should be safe to just pitch up and choose a spot. If you want to book a stay in gorgeous Lottie Vintage Caravan, then please call, or email us with your preferred dates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lottie and her guests have been having “Lotts” of fun this season…..

Posted on September 5, 2013 by Comments Off on Lottie and her guests have been having “Lotts” of fun this season…..

debs pictures lottie etc 086The Meadows Team (me Lynn, John and Camp Dog Harvey) are so enjoying having our Lottie Caravan on the campsite.  Lottie’s  guests have been enjoying her too, and have all had so much fun especially with the good weather they have enjoyed.

Lottie has attracted lots of interest from passers by including caravan enthusiasts, and just fans of all things “Vintage”.  Indeed, our neighbours are convinced that the recent increase in knocks to the bollard in the middle of the road, and loss of wheel trims is entirely down to Lottie gazers!

I have had great fun keep adding to Lottie’s already well kitted out  interior.  This week I just could not resist these gorgeous Beach Hut Lights for inside.  The outside  deck area is also lit up at nights with fairy lights hanging from the sail.

For a late addition to The Meadows Campsite, Lottie has had lots of guests over the summer.  As it is starting to feel just a little chilly in the mornings, and evenings, I have just bought Lottie a little heater to keep her guests cosy.

debs pictures lottie etc 114The met office are still saying that September will be fairly dry on the whole, with temperatures above average, so very good for a Lottie Vintage Caravan break.  We have one weekend break in September still available, and availability for the Monday to Friday breaks, starting this coming Monday.

If you would like to come and enjoy The Meadows Campsite, and this beautiful area, and camp in vintage style then Lottie Caravan is highly recommended. Please have a look at Lottie’s page for more information and pictures, and contact us by email here, or telephone 01726 844383 with any questions or should you wish to book. A fabulous place to rest your tired legs  whilst enjoying a walking holiday in Cornwall.

The Meadows Campsite is a small dog friendly site, situate in the Pentewan Valley, close to Mevagissey, IMG_7111Charlestown, Heligan Gardens, and the Eden Project. We cater for campervans, tents (all shapes & sizes), caravans and motorhomes. September and October are great months for walking (south west coast path), cycling and having a good old mooch about.  We are in a great location for exploring the south coast of Cornwall, but you can also be over in Padstow in around 30 minutes.

Note – there is only one Lottie, and we have not yet found her a sister, but we are very much looking.

 

Late season is the time to get away if you can

Posted on August 31, 2013 by Comments Off on Late season is the time to get away if you can

IMG_7111Well July, and August were very busy indeed, and we had lots of very happy campers.  The weather was very kind to us in the main, but was a little mean for parts of August.  Being a natural site, we do suffer rather when the rain comes down and we get 6cm just in a morning!!  However when the sun comes out, with our sheltered spot, we do recover well, and of course there has to be some price, to camp in  natural beauty.  It is absolutely gorgeous now and has been for the past couple of weeks. We have lots of wild camping going on in the Meadow field, and all pitches by the stream are full. Our campers pitching up in the more secluded meadow spots have mighty fine views of the colourful hill over to Mevagissey, which lots walk, or cycle over daily.

The long term weather forecast for the South West for September is higher than average temperatures, and dry settled weather.  How fabulous is that, for all who take their breaks outside of the school holidays. This is an ideal time for walking the south west coastal path, and generally relaxing and mooching around, as everywhere will now be much quieter.

Walking around Black Head

Our site is still looking very green and lovely, and of course this beautiful area looks gorgeous whatever time of year it is. The coastal path is being well walked, and it is such a fabulous part of the path, around Charlestown, Mevagissey, and Gorran Haven.  Black Head is still our favourite part and we are going to start off again with our early morning visits to Hallane Beach, and we probably won’t see anyone else.

If you are reading this blog, I hope you are doing so as a guest of ours to keep in touch and see what is happening.  My camera has not been out as much as it should have for the last few weeks.  I have missed a photo opportunity for a full decked out Ambulance on site with a lovely dutch couple on board. I have to say when it first pulled in as it was still with full signs, I did do a double take.  We have also had so many colourful V dubs on site this summer, a lot on tour, and lots decked out with bunting and twinkly lights.  Again, photo opportunities unfortunately missed.  This was an interesting motorhome, and although new it was full of wood, and so beautifully made.  It came complete with fresh sweet peas in the window.image

A matching pair of Vws departing

For any guests going through their holiday photies, who have stayed with us, and have great “camping” pictures, it would be lovely to see them.   I would hope to add lots of pictures to our website, and the more colourful the better.

Other Meadows News

We have been asked, and have agreed to host a Geo Caching Event held here at the end of September.  A similar event was held last year very nearby and was very popular. We hope that there will be lots of enthusiastic guests attending this one, and we have taken quite a few camping bookings already.  The event is to be held on the weekend of 27-29 September, and if you want to find out please then check out the GeoCaching.com website for more information.  All very exciting, good fun, and a great way to see get out their enjoying the Pentewan Valley Trail, and Kingswood.

Come & get your Crepes

Gill on board “Blue Vintage” continues to be extremely popular with our guests, and I often see quite a queue.  I think there might be a bit of competition going on between Camp Chef John and Blue Vintage Gill on numbers.  All healthy competition of course.  Gill will continue visiting The Meadows Campsite in September as we look to be having a busy month, although we do still have space available if you have not yet booked.  The new flavour of Lemon Curd with lemon meringue is scrumptious.

As September is likely to see lots of adults at The Meadows, I thought it the time to test out Roskillys Lemon & Ginger Ice Cream.  I like it, and so hoping our guests will do too.  Of course I also ordered lots more Caramel Crunch as it seems people cannot get enough of that one.

Cooking Twins

Paul Merritt’s advice has come in handy this season

Camp Chef John continues to give the guests what they want in the morning to start their day.  Breakfast is now so popular our campers are waiting outside the door to place their orders, and sit on our sunny deck, that is if they have not placed their orders the night before.  John’s breakfast baguettes can be enjoyed with a pot of tea, cafetiere of coffee, or a glass or orange watching camp life, or at your unit in your pjs if you prefer. Yes, between 8 & 11, the team is very busy indeed, as of course Camp Chef needs a waitress/delivery girl, drinks maker, washer upper, whilst still being shop keeper & receptionist.  Camp Dog Harvey takes this time to chill under the desk and keep well out of it.

It would be nice to share some of our really  funny stories of camp life, but some of what goes on at camp, must stay at camp!!!

Fat dog slim

Oh what a smart neckerchief that is.

News from Camp Dog

“My girls” (the chickens) are doing very well indeed, and are enjoying the sunshine and having me watch over them.  We, that is “the girls” and I have a team meeting in the afternoons, whilst I am resting on my picnic blanket under the tree next to them.  We have decided that this is not a bad place to be, and that we will be back on board in 2014, not that I am wishing away September and October in any way.  We also know what valuable members of the team we are as we hear the majority of guests asking after us on arrival, that means we must have rights!

Camp Dog on his rounds

I am on my best behaviour at the moment, as Camp Mummy has found out about a Boarding Kennel close by.  I keep hearing her talking about it to guests, and how you can send your dogs for day care, or longer.  Some of our guests have brought their dog, but then have taken them to spend the day/days, at Gover Valley Kennels.  Reports please from doggies not owners, as to how you found it, and whether or not you were well fed, fussed, and walked, and if it is better than being on camp dog duty!

Thank you for the many nice comments about my neckerchief.  I now feel naked without it, so I might get a woolly one for the winter.

Another dog friendly outing to add to my list is Healey’s Cider Farm.  Oh, I have heard many excellent reports of this local attraction, and there is lots to see and do.  Lots of you will have seen Caroline Quentin on her many visits to the Farm, as we have a feeling Caroline was partial to a glass or two of cider, as is Camp Mummy.

IMG_6785Well, the Meadows Team, that is me Lynn, John, Camp Dog Harvey & “the girls” want to continue looking after our guests well for October and September.  We still have availability for “hook ups” on our hardstanding grass pitches, and  for”proper camping” pitches in our very sunny camping field.  Our small, dog friendly Campsite is close to Mevagissey, Pentewan, Heligan Gardens and the Eden Project, Cornwall.  Heligan, Mevagissey and Pentewan are within walking distance along the Pentewan Valley Trail. You can just turn up, and we will always try and fit you in.  If you prefer to book in advance to secure your pitch, then please telephone 01726 844383, or contact us by email here.

Our fabulous, fun Lottie Caravan, and Maisy Tipee Tent also have availability for part of September.  Lottie has just debs pictures lottie etc 086been treated to a set of Beach Hut Lights for extra indoors lighting.  If staying in Lottie, all you need to bring really is towels, foods and beverages of your choice, oh and of course your clothes and  washbag!!! Please check out Lottie’s page for lots of pictures and more information.

 

 

 

 

A true British Summer just like the good old days…………

Posted on July 9, 2013 by Comments Off on A true British Summer just like the good old days…………
Camp Dog Harvey keeping cool

Camp Dog Harvey keeping cool

What fabulous weather is upon us, there is plenty more to come, and so how lucky are we?!  Camp Dog Harvey is staying cool with a cold flannel as he continues to work very hard on site.

England is the place to be this year, and everything is rosy with Wimbledon, the Royal baby soon to arrive, and all in the sunshine.

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Pitching by the stream to enjoy the shade

The Meadows Campsite is in a lovely sheltered spot, and so everyone is basking in the sunshine, and the site is so green.  We have seen quite a few people moving their chairs to take advantage of the shade given by the trees next to the stream.  It is so lovely to see our guests now being able to sit out so late in the evenings still in T-Shirts.  This is how we all remember British Summers and we are now just like the good old days!!  Being a farmer’s daughter I remember my dad not even having to think about rain in July & August when harvesting.

This hot weather is seeing everyone take off to the beach after devouring John’s breakfast baguettes and Camp Dog Harvey and I would like to share with you our favourite beaches:-

The best beaches everywhere are usually those that involve a little walk, and have no facilities.

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One of Camp Dog’s girls enjoying Hemmick Beach

Camp Dog’s favourite beach is “Hemmick”.  Whilst you could be lucky to find a parking spot at the bottom, the road down is rather a hairy drive.  You are best to park in the National Trust Car Park in Penare and enjoy the walk down which gives lovely views.  Hemmick is a good sized beach with rock pools, great for swimming and dog friendly.  It is usually fairly quiet and is popular with locals. There are no facilities at this beach, but it is a natural beauty.

Gorran Haven beach where you can walk around to Vault Beach

Gorran Haven – this is a great beach, and is very popular as there is parking, and also a cafe and toilets.  You will see lots of boats here as boat launching takes place here.  If you want a nice walk, you can walk around to Vault beach and both are dog friendly.  Note – Vault beach does have a nudist area ;).

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Our local beach – Pentewan Sands

 

Porthpean Beach & Pentewan Sands – these beaches are not dog friendly, but Camp Dog Harvey still can give advice as he has visited out of season.  Both beaches are very family friendly, and have food options and toilet facilities in the villages. Great for swimming and playing the usual beach games.  You can walk to Pentewan Sands from the campsite along the lovely Pentewan Valley Trail.  The Ship Inn is also in the village with a good sized beer garden.

Camp Dog Harvey on the walk down to Hallane Beach

 

Hallane Beach & Polrudden Cove – these are small little coves accessed from the South West Coast Path joining the path in Pentewan Village.  Alternatively, there is a small parking arriving in Trenarren which shortens the walk down to Hallane Beach. Hallane beach is particularly beautiful with an old house on the beach, and a waterfall.  Walking around Black Head makes a lovely walk and beach outing.  Hallane and Polrudden are friendly to those on four legs.

 

Polkerris – this is a gorgeous beach, but not friendly to those on four legs.  Sams on the Beach is a fabulous place for a Pizza and Sams Vans often rock up in an evening serving cocktails and food out of the back of the van.  This beach is great for those looking for watersports.

Caerhays

Caerhays Beach

 

Caerhays (Porthluny Cove) is another great beach, with parking and a small cafe.  This is a great beach for a picnic, swim and is also dog friendly.  If you are feeling energetic you can walk over to Portloe and enjoy fish at The Ship Inn

 

 

Other “Meadows” news

Our Meadow Tipee Tent looks just the part in the Meadow area in this gorgeous hot weather.  Great fun for a stay and only an extra £15 pn on top of the usual pitch price, for having a tent all set up ready to go, in a prime spot.  Plenty of standing room and sleeps up to 10.  Ring Lynn, or John to check availability, as this is great for last minute getaways.

Lottie – has had lots of admirers and even people wanting to hire out the deckchairs. Lottie really does make for a special time away, and still has availability.  If you are looking to rent a caravan for a holiday in July, or a break in August then please take a look at Lottie’s page.

Some of our campers have reported hearing “boar” type noises at night outside of their tent, and so Camp Dog Harvey put his security jacket on and went out to investigate.  Unfortunately, nothing was spotted by his bed time, and so he handed over the investigation to the campers.  The boar turned out to be a very large round hedgehog, now named Harry the hedgehog.  It turns out Harry is very partial to sausage rolls, and stale buns, which is why he is so round.  He does make very loud “boar” type sounds, particularly impressive for a hedgehog.

To book a stay at The Meadows Campsite please contact us here, or by telephone 01726 844383.  Whilst we are almost booked up for the main summer holiday weeks, in good weather we will have other “dry weather” pitches available.  This is particularly so for “proper camping” – ie those camping in the old fashioned way without electric. We are ideally situate for camping Mevagissey, Pentewan and for visiting Heligan Gardens and the Eden Project.  There are also bus stops a few paces either side of the road, though you can access lots of places by walking the Pentewan Valley Trail.

 

Get set for basking in the July sunshine

Posted on July 4, 2013 by Comments Off on Get set for basking in the July sunshine

IMG_7111Well staying dry for Glastonbury, and Wimbledon running on schedule, were good signs, but the best is yet to come!!!

Positive thinking, cosmic ordering, who knows, but the sunshine much needed by the Meadows Team for our first season in the Pentewan Valley is arriving this afternoon.  It will not just be a fleeting glance, once here it is hanging around for the summer. Check out the weather forecast here!!

We have already had good spells of dry weather, which have also fell when we have been busy, like for whit sun, and also the last weekend for Eden Sessions campers.  Our campers have already been enjoying our new secluded meadow pitches created recently.  They are so popular as people like the feel of wild camping, and waking up to the sight of our yellow flag irises, and pitching by the stream is also very popular.IMG_7085

In view of the red hot July ahead, today’s task is to make a large secluded pitch right in the meadow area, for our Meadow Floral Tepee Tent which is going to arrive tomorrow.  This is going to be available for festival style camping, with room to stand up in it and sleeping up to 10 people.  This will be set up as a tent only, erected and ready to go, and in view of where it is to be sited, suitable for “fair weathered campers” only.  This is going to be ideal for those last minute campers, and please telephone 01726 844383 or email us here to book.  The tepee tent will be the usual pitch price, plus an additional £15 pn for the tent rent.  Not bad shared between a group.   Pictures to follow once pitch and tepee set up, which should be by lunchtime tomorrow!

Another late introduction is of course the gorgeous Lottie our 1960s vintage caravan decked out beach hut style.  Again Lottie is great for hassle free camping, great fun, and ideal for last minute holidays in July.  Lottie is all set up ready for guests, and please contact us here should you wish to book for Camping in Mevagissey/Pentewan. Please also see Lottie’s page for more information.

We are in walking distance of Pentewan Sands beach, and other beaches, and also two great pubs,The Ship Inn, Pentewan, and The Polgooth Inn, Polgooth (both dog friendly). You can also walk from our site to Mevagissey, and Heligan Gardens, and cycle to the Eden Project. We also have a freezer full of Roskillys Ice Cream.

For this weekend, and the coming week full of sunshine, we do still have pitches available, both for “proper camping”, and with electric hook up.  You can just turn up, but if electric hook up is essential we advise that you telephone 01726 844383 or email first.

 

Things are hotting up at The Meadows……………………

Posted on June 22, 2013 by Comments Off on Things are hotting up at The Meadows……………………

The Meadows Team all like to be busy, and busy we are.IMG_7102

Our booking line has been very hot especially since we were featured in the “Camping”,  magazine and we are nearly full for the peak weeks of the summer holidays. This is for advance bookings, but when we know a “scorcher”, is on the cards, the dry weather dependent pitches become available.  It is always worth giving us a call, if you are last minute campers, and we will try and find you a  spot to pitch. We have put in our order for buckets full of sunshine for this season, and this is on its way.

Lottie set up & waiting for the sun to come out

Lottie is now on site, and has settled in very nicely, and welcomed her first guests this weekend.  With everything set up for her guests, they were relaxing in the deck chairs within 5 minutes of arriving for their long weekend break.   I have tried to think of everything cook wise, and for a fun break in such a special caravan, but  being practical too. Lottie as a late arrival, has availability, for the season for both short breaks, weekends and weekly rental.  It is possible to  also book the “camping pitch” next door, and Lottie is decked out with crockery for 4.

Our “hard-standing grass” pitches have also been tested this week, due to the  English downpours our campers have had to endure.  “Grass protecta” gets a very big thumbs up, and for something that enables our site to look so natural, it really does do its job.  We had some big motorhomes and caravans pitched, and they all pulled straight off when they departed!!  The rain has been very heavy when it has come down, but in between the sun has shone and we have also had some lovely days, and evenings of sun. For our new arrivals coming setting up today and tomorrow, the forecast now is looking really good for the week ahead.  We also look very green and our new plants are flourishing.

John (Camp Daddy) is getting prepared for his raft race, and the raft is nearly complete.   In case you missed the last blog, John is a team member for the Mevagissey Feast Week Raft Race taking place at 7pm on 28 June.  I won’t be able to watch as Camp Dog Harvey and I are welcoming some Campervans on site for a Pre-Prom photo session with some children, and some pretend bubbles!!!  We also have lots of guests arriving Friday and Saturday camping here for The Eden Sessions. There has not been much training going on for the raft race just a lot of talking tactics!!!  No picture allowed at the moment, as the construction is a secret until it is launched in the water.

News from Camp Dog Harvey

Camp Dog on duty

I sent two of our guests, off to Eden to test run the new “dog friendly” .  I sent the two guests off as undercover agents, and they were in disguise as two sausages on leads ;).  On their return back to camp, Eden got a very good report, as they had walked all around the gardens, been on the train, spent time in the visitor centre, eaten on the terrace, and found plenty of water spots.  The two sausages on leads who I have to say were very lovely, had a great time, and can highly recommend the Eden experience for four legged pals out there.  They did not feel they had missed out by not visiting the domes, but did say that they would not have minded too much spending an hour or so in the kennels there, should their owner who was on his own wanted to experience the domes.

It took me a few weeks to understand the concept of “sharing” my space with other four legged friends, but I have now got it!! We have now had lots of visitors here with four legs, and to date they are the most well behaved of all of our guests ;). They sometimes come in threes, such as three little Maltese terriers, three Jack Russells this week, three Collies at the same time, or twos as in the Sausages, Huskies, more Terriers, Two fluffy Bichons, and two  just like me, but smaller versions.  Today a Cockapoo has arrived on site, and she is very pretty indeed, but no romance, as I am such a professional!

We have also welcomed dogs from abroad, as the Germans and the Dutch also love their dogs, and they seem to love spending time in Cornwall, enjoying the trail, and our dog friendly pubs and beaches.  On one hot day two dogs arrived in a camper van having come over on the ferry from France, got straight out and lay in the stream to cool off. I am keeping a close eye on a Terrier at the moment, who looks very cute.  Apparently, he screams when he sees chickens, which could be quite entertaining!! As he is pitched away from the chickens, I am thinking of dressing up  as a chicken and walking past, just to experience a screaming Terrier ;).

Outside of Camp Gates

This weekend it is the Beer and Mussels Festival at Fowey, which should be a great weekend.  We hope some of guests will visit and tell us all about it.

Mevagissey Feast Week starts tomorrow(23/6), and the weather is looking very favourable.  It is not too late to join us here to spend time in Mevagissey as there are lots of “foodie” events going on, and you could also cheer on the Pentewan Pirates for Friday’s Raft Race.  We hope that our guests will be bringing back lots of goodies from the feast week, and that there will be some lovely smells wafting over the site from BBQs.  As foodies, we shall certainly be finding time to pop down and pick up some treats. The firework finale should be great, and Mevagissey all decked out looks even more gorgeous than usual.  You can walk or catch the bus to Mevagissey from The Meadows so you don’t even need to worry about parking.

All gardens around here are looking particularly lovely, and have appreciated the recent rain.  Heligan is always worthy of a visit, with or without dogs. Whilst there be sure to pop in to Lobbs Farm Shop.

Walking parts of the SW Coastal Path in particular the area around Black Head is highly recommended and easily accessed from the Pentewan Valley Trail.  Food tastes so much nicer after a good walk, and we know lots of great dog friendly walks.

IMG_6785If you want to book a stay at The Meadows Campsite in the Pentewan Valley, contact us here, or telephone the team on 01726 844383.  We cater for motorhomes, caravans, and tents of all shapes and sizes.  Dogs are also most welcome, and they come along for  free. If you do not have a tent or caravan, and would like to camp out in Lottie, then please call or email us to check availability and to book. We are great for camping and caravanning close to both Pentewan & Mevagissey on a small sheltered site, and we are very friendly.