We are almost ready to open the gates

Posted on April 19, 2017 by Comments Off on We are almost ready to open the gates

Well, the last winter flew by.  On the whole the Cornish weather was very kind to us and made light of all of the outdoor work.  It has not been all work this winter, and we have enjoyed some lovely holidays.  Our favourite holiday was a 3 week walking holiday in La Palma.  The Island made Cornwall walking seem like flat walking.  We certainly returned feeling fit, and as usual food and wine had been a big part of the holiday too!  Camp Dog Harvey has also had a couple of stays at his favourite health farm in Leicestershire.  Harvey also returned home after his 3 week stay looking a picture of health.

Our woods stocks have been replenished, which has now become the main part of our winter work.  We have stuck with our giant bee hive stacks as they are just the job, and hold so much in each one.  The majority of the wood is our own, with a few donations here and there of good unwanted stuff given to us for logging.  Plenty of wood for the ever popular campfires, and we are sure the stacks will be depleted as quickly as they went up.

We have also this winter put up a new “campers’ shed”.  This houses the ice pack freezer, and also a very nice handmade phone charging facility.  We realised that when our guests were on holiday they did not want to worry about getting back before our office closed.  Of course some of our guests also like a good lie in when on holiday and don’t want to be setting the alarm just to get up to collect ice packs.  The new shed will be open 24 7 on a help your selves basis.

We have been blessed recently with lots and lots of sunshine and so everything natural is coming in to its own nice and early.  The wildflower meadow has a few flowers already.  The yellow flag irises are coming on well too,  and the trees are already full of colour.  

There has been spotting on the campsite this winter of a Weasel, and not just a fleeing glimpse.  The woodpeckers are also still here, as is the nuthatch and of course the owls are always hooting well.

This week, we have been planning our pop ups for the season.  The bad news is that there will be no fish & chips this year.  Ross has swapped his chef whites for a nurses uniform and is now a fully qualified nurse.  We will miss Ross, Jen and their scrummy fish and chips and wish them both all the very best.

Wood fired pizzas are back – yeah :), and once again on a Tuesday.  Anna will accompany Simon and his team and will be serving up cocktails.  Anna has been working on a caravan this winter making a cocktail bar, and we cannot wait to see it.  If it is ready it will get a trial run for the first bank holiday weekend, but being a work in progress this is not a definite.

Pizza Simon has also now another string to his bow and will be here also on a Thursday with his griddle and oven.  Simon’s plan is to cook up his excellent burgers and may be also an oven dish.  There was a trial of Simon’s burgers last season, and our view was that The Hub Box would be given a run for its money.  As before Simon does look after the vegetarians out there.  Anna will also be making Thursday a regular night for cocktails, and so how lucky are we.

Anna and her cocktail caravan are also hoping to make some weekend appearances, but on a more pop up basis.  Anna is also hoping to do pop up food on certain weekend nights.  We will be getting all the boards ready to hang out to keep everyone posted as to what is popping up and when so you don’t miss out.

Breakfasts should also be happening here again at The Meadows.  Amanda has been on exotic solo travels this winter and so we are looking forward to hearing all about them.  We will keep you updated on breakfasts but we hope it will all be similar to last year.  

Bookings – these have come in thick and fast during the winter.  There are some weeks where all of our hook up pitches are booked out already.  There are not many weekly spaces available with electric, although there are still some if you get in there quick.

Our “proper camping” is also filling up as of our course our wildflower meadow with it’s secluded pitches is ever so popular.  We are hoping our campers’ shed will convert some of those usually taking electric to get further “down field”.

Map – for our first time visitors and as a memory joggers to our returning guests we now have a map.  It is we think a happy map, but it should give newbies a general idea of the layout of the site.  There is a pdf downloadable version on our website.

To book you can contact us here, or telephone 01726 844383.  For those visiting for the first time, we are an adult only campsite (no offence kids), and dog friendly in Pentewan, South Cornwall.  We are situate on the Pentewan Valley Trail (Coast to Clay) cycle & walking trail, which links up to the SWCP. We are great for Heligan Gardens as you can walk there on the trail and receive a discount for doing so.  If you are fairly fit, you can cycle from our campsite to the Eden Project.  Mevagissey and Pentewan are also in walking distance (1 hr to Meva & 30 mins to Pentewan).  We look forward to seeing lots of familiar friendly faces soon, and some new faces too!

Well, the sun is shining and those last minute jobs and the fresh air are calling !

Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey

 

 

Thanking you kindly…………..

Posted on September 29, 2016 by Comments Off on Thanking you kindly…………..

Well, we are almost at the end of season number 4, and this one has definitely been the best!S7004656

Our last week is usually the quietest of the season, and so gives us a chance to reflect back on the five months that have flown by.

We continue to be lucky that we attract such a great bunch of guests to our smallish campsite, week on week which makes our job so much more enjoyable.  It gives us so much pleasure to see our guests enjoy their holiday here, and to hear about their adventures out and about around Cornwall.

themeadows-camping-food-and-drink-pop-up-barThis Summer there has been some fab evenings with impromptu entertainment to go with our Pop ups.  Some guests have great party tricks which you would never know guess when they check in.

After a couple of seasons without breakfast, it has been great to have our visits by The Cornish Maid who always has a smile on her face when cooking up her delights. themeadows-camping-food-and-drink-cooked-breakfast Also new for this season was Lazys Travelling Bar, and our guests have really enjoyed this experience.  The green stripey deck chairs have been in and out almost every day this season, and it has been a great indicator that something is happening at The Meadows, so don’t miss out!

There has been plenty to smile and laugh about this season on the campsite.  However, of course what happens at camp stays at camp.

What is noticeable year on year, is the effort our guests make to dress up their units, dogs, pitch area, and of course themselves to get in to the joys of camping. The Campsite is an abundance of colour at all times of the season, and only a part of that is our doing.  Thank you for this, and keep on doing it, as we love it :).

So, just a short one, as before we head off on our jolly, as we have a big mole hill to get stuck in before then.  Those tired pitches, will soon be brought back to life, and the wildflower meadow like its owners is getting a good end of season haircut.

Thank you to all our guests of 2016 for making our fourth season a busy, but very enjoyable one.

Thank you also very much to all of our Pops ups – Kernow Forno, The Atlantic Fryer, Anna’s Alfresco Lounge, Lazy’s Bar, and The Cornish Maid.  Our Lazys picguests have been so lucky this year with all of the food and drink offerings, and the sociable atmospheres these create.

News from Camp Dog HarveyS7000532

Thank you to all those four legged guests.  It has been just great, and I am pleased to report that I have not been required to deal with any major security incidents.

It was lovely to finish the season off with 8 Cavaliers on the campsite, even though the photo opportunity was missed.

I far exceeded my  sales of dog bandanas, and so I expect to retain the role of model for next season’s designs.

IMG_7102General Meadows News

Once the gates close at the end of our 2016, and the essential repair work (to the site, not us) is complete will be taking a break.  This means we will not be starting up our booking diary for next season until after this time, when our batteries are fully recharged.  For those wanting to book, please keep an eye on our home page banner, towards the middle/end of November.  In the meantime keep practicing your party tricks as we like everything to get better and better, year on year.

Thank you once again and we look forward to seeing many of you again in 2017.

For those who don’t yet know it, The Meadows is a quirky adult only campsite in South Cornwall, close to Mevagissey. We are dog friendly and campfire friendly too.

Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey – The Meadows

 

 

School is nearly out, and The Meadows is in the full swing of summer.

Posted on July 10, 2016 by Comments Off on School is nearly out, and The Meadows is in the full swing of summer.

S7000293Well, we are ready for the arrival of the summer school. Next week, we should have a full compliment of teachers, school secretary,  head mistress, deputy head, mixed up with those campers who just enjoy high season holidays.

The forecast for the week ahead is looking good, and last week was all in all quite a good week.  I judge how much sunshine we have had, by how many squeals I hear in the shower block with our hot showers on sunburn ;).  There has been quite a number this week caught out.

John & I are always very interested to hear why first time visitor have chosen our campsite.  It is good for us to Lazys pichear that so many of our guests absorb so much of the information on our website prior to arrival, and know what to expect when they get here.  Most are already Facebook and Twitter friends with our Pop Up Hosts and have their walks, and days out planned way ahead. Lots have often already purchased tickets for gardens and theatre trips, including the very special Minack.

The Campsite is looking extremely colourful at the present time, with some very well dressed tents, caravans and campervans.  The wildflower meadow has been full this week, with our campers enjoying their secluded pitches, and one couple has been watching baby buzzards as there is a nest in the wood.

For those visiting this coming week, on Monday it is the Stitihians Agricultural Show, the biggest one day such show in Cornwall, with lots of farm animals, dogs and goats, vintage tractors, and just a lot to see. This show comes highly recommended by some of our guests who visited last year.

Our guests at the moment seem to be in to bike hire, and wineries!!! What a winning combination. Knightor Winery is fab, and directly on to a cycle route.  Polmassick Vineyard is also worth a cycle to if you have the energy for a vineyard tour.

If you have a bike with lights that could be useful if you are here for any of the Wine Tasting Events down on Carlyon Bay with Clio’s Van du Vin.  There is always also a lot of good food down at Carlyon Bay, especially from Sams on the Bay. The wine tasting events are

Friday 29th July – Battle of the Bubbles

Friday 5th August – Argentina vs Chile

Saturday 20th August Chardonnay Across the Spectrum

Saturday 3rd September- Oaked vs Unoaked Wine

Carlyon Bay is a really lovely setting, and you would manage it on a bike, or to walk to the nearest bus stop for the last bus home.

If we can get enough interest, then Clio would love to come with her Van du Vin to The Meadows and host  a couple of wine tasting sessions this season.  I will be seeing who is up for that, and trying to get something in the diary.

This week is also the Rock Oyster Festival for those heading over to the north coast.

As for happenings at The Meadows, we have our usual Pop ups all in attendance this week.  The Friday evening duck race has also started going again.  It also looks like a good week for fire pits and bbqs.

S7000534News from Camp Dog Harvey – this week has been a good one, as most of them are.  I have been extremely busy, welcoming lots of guests and doing my party trick trying to trip them up on their way in to the office.  My second job of top model is also keeping me busy, and lots of sales of dog bandanas are taking place.  There are lots of familiar faces around the campsite as the moment, as lots of guests are returning to us as they cannot resist the pizzas and cocktails!!

I got a rare night off this week, and headed back up to the Kingswood Restaurant in search of meat, and steak night to be precise.  Excellent food there, and we sat on the terrace on the last table to catch the evening sun rays.  Top night, and a lovely evening stroll there and back.  Not much steak for me, I would add, but an enjoyable evening out nonetheless.

Other Meadows News – well, it has been busy, busy, busy, and looks like it will be right through the season.  The fabulous atmosphere created by such a friendly lot of campers, campervanners and caravaners we get here week on week continues, and is a a pleasure to see.

Bookings – we still have some room for “proper camping” from mid August onwards, but not a lot.  However, we debs pictures lottie etc 028don’t overbook, and so often have space for those touring around and who call in to stay for a night or two.  September is a lovely month to get away and we are often blessed with an Indian Summer.  Please do get in touch should you wish to book a September stay and then you can start your holiday countdown.

Arriving under your own steam – there is still not a requirement to book in advance for those carrying their own gear. Indeed, John, Harvey & I really enjoy putting up hikers and cyclists for the night, or even for a longer stay.

IMG_7111If you don’t already know The Meadows Campsite is a smallish campsite, just for adults and dog friendly situate in South Cornwall.  We are a good campsite for those visiting Heligan Gardens, Mevagissey, the Eden Project and for those who love the outdoors, especially campfires.

Look forward to seeing lots of you soon.

Lynn

 

 

Otter spotting at The Meadows

Posted on July 3, 2016 by Comments Off on Otter spotting at The Meadows

Well June has come and gone. Qhilst the weather has not been the usual dead cert weather wise we say June is, our campers have still had a great time, and lots of fun.

John & I always say that our campsite attracts lots of “doers” and everyone has been out and about enjoying the County.  When the weather is not so good, then people tend to go off further afield during the day, and The Meadows is such a great base.  Armed with a rain coat, sunglasses, suncream, and sturdy footwear, you are set up for anything.  Lots of guests visit Lands End and the Minack Theatre from here, and of course a trip to St Ives makes a great day out.

Almost all of our guests visit and love Heligan Gardens, and walking up there is worth it for the £3.50 discount.  Most guests return with a bag of goodies from Lobbs Farm Shop to enjoy some of the local delights back at Camp.     Heligan Gardens is lovely throughout the season and comes very highly recommended, as does a Heligan Cream Tea.

We have had a number of guests recently arriving under their own steam, and then making the most of the local bicycle hire in the village, and testing out some local routes.  You can cover a little bit more ground on a bike, than on foot, and so guests are heading out on the trail and the Cornish lanes.  A couple of good routes, are the Mevagissey circular route, and Charlestown on the cycle trail, returning via Porthpean Beach on the lanes, and in to the village for a stop off at the ship before heading back along the river. Everyone loves Sams and just around from Charlestown is Carlyon Bay, and Sams on the Bay.  This is a great day time stopping place for a drink, lunch and a chilled out time.  Fabulous pop up food there too.

Bikes & Dogs – Should your dog have tired paws and wants a day off from long walks, then Pentewan Cycle Hire has a dog trailer for hire. Good feedback on this, especially for owners with more mature dogs.

Happenings on the Campsite – our pop ups get more and more popular, and this week, we have more nights Lazys picon than off!!

We have wood fired pizzas Tuesday, and an extra slice on Saturday (9th) too.  Superb, Fish & Chips on Thursday courtesy of The Atlantic Fryer, and Chilli Nachos, with may be Brownies, or Cheesecake on Friday.  Where there is food, there are cocktails, cider and beer. Of course the deckchairs make an appearance for all events!  Breakfast will also be available this week from The Cornish Maid on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday.

The most commented thing about our campsite is the friendly and relaxed atmosphere! A lot of thought and organisation goes in to what goes on here with the pop ups, and so it is good to know it is being well received.

Our campers always seem to be a sociable and friendly bunch and there has been lots of laughter and chatting at cocktail o’clock. This is a great way to pick up some tips on what to do for the rest of your holiday, as there is so much around.

There has been plenty of evenings for fire pits and bbqs and sitting out in an evening soaking up the Campsite atmosphere and listening to the owls, and may be Otters in the stream.  Otters have been spotted in the valley, and there has been unconfirmed sightings here!!!

At the moment, we have a lovely female Mallard duck wandering around the Campsite, with her 10 duckings in tow, often to be seen on our stream. If any one has grabbed a photo opportunity please send me one.

Agricultural Shows – these are always great in Cornwall, and most people like a good farming show, with animals.

This month we have Liskeard Agricultural Show on the 9th, and Stithians Agricultural Show on the 11th, and last year we had great reports of both.

News from Camp Dog Harvey aka top model – S7000414

For dogs of all shapes and sizes, we have new bandanas in stock, and lots of them.  There are some really lovely ones for both big boys, and little girls, and how nice to get dressed up on your jollies. Best dressed units, and best dressed dogs here at The Meadows Campsite, and all your efforts make us smile. In one day I clocked up 15 sales and I took my commission in the latest style.

I cannot pass opinion on the dog bike trailer, as I have yet to test it, but may do so when the opportunity arises. To me it seems a great idea for a more leisurely (dog, not owner) day out.

It was nice to see a dutch pussy cat staying here recently, and very boldly sitting in the middle of the pitch teasing all us dogs.  Well done doggies, as not one of you gave in to the temptation to chase it around the campsite.

IMG_7102Bookings – we are always worth a call for late availability, or do drop in if your are touring around, as we often have a last minute space. For advance bookings of long stays, there is not a lot now available, until the end of August. For those who don’t know, The Meadows is an adult only, dog friendly (and generally friendly) campsite in South Cornwall. We love bunting, fairy lights, campfires, bbqs and our own foodie and drinkie “pop ups”

For all those coming to stay in July, we look forward to seeing you all soon.

 

 

 

The Meadows Team welcomes SWCP walkers

Posted on June 17, 2016 by Comments Off on The Meadows Team welcomes SWCP walkers

S7000004As most of our guests know when they get talking to us, John, CD Harvey and I are very keen walkers. For us walking the SWCP is hard to beat for a long distance walk.  Indeed just walking sections, around this area, using the bus, or circular walks can make for a fantastic walking holiday in Cornwall.

All part of the service

Always happy to lend a hand

It is always a pleasure to put up hikers and also cyclists for the night who are on a personal walking, or cycling challenge and want to lay their head down for the evening. Our “park & pitch” is ideal for this and with the Pentewan Valley Trail linking up to the SWCP both in Mevagissey, and also Pentewan, The Meadows is an ideal stop.  Our guests who arrive under their own steam usually choose a spot out of the way and in our car free zones,  with a pitch in the wildflower meadow often being the chosen spot.

Once set up, which is usually a well oil machine when they reach us, time for one of our hot powerful showers, a S7004656free charge of the phone, and if timed well a feast of wood fired pizzas, fish & chips or chilli nachos with a cocktail or cider!  In our little store around the back, there is an assortment of chairs that we keep to loan out to our guests who arrive with just a pack on their back for a comfier evening. If the bar is open the green stripey deckchairs will be out!

S7000010For anyone planning on walking the SWCP, we have now signed up and are a Business Member to support the Association and to help walkers find our Campsite. The best point of exit is in Pentewan, and you will find us then 1 mile up the Pentewan Valley Trail walking alongside the river which is nice and flat!! If exiting at Mevagissey you can either walk on the Trail to us (50 minutes), or hop on the bus.

This week a group of four walkers stayed with us, and after hearing what was on offer, their words were – “you really have thought of everything, and so what time is breakfast”!  They were lost for words when our response was 8am courtesy of The Cornish Maid!!  With a doorstep sandwich and filter coffee  on our sunny deck, a catch up on wifi, off they went on their way to Charlestown.

So for you walkers and cyclists out there – The Meadows Campsite welcomes both, and will always find you a spot (advance booking not required).  You will get discounted pitch fees (25% off), and a very warm welcome indeed.  Being adults only (and dog friendly), the campsite is generally relaxing, being just what you want after a day of walking, or cycling. You can also enjoy a Campfire experience should you wish as part of your stop over.

Having walked ourselves all Coastal Sections of the 105 Ordnance Map, and the majority of the Fowey 107, one of us will always be happy to pass on our knowledge of things not to miss along the way, and how much fuel you need for the next section ahead!

For a walling holiday in Cornwall – I cannot recommend enough www.iwalkcornwall.co.uk for excellent walks, local to us and further afield

Other Meadows Newsthemeadows-camping-food-and-drink-pop-up-bar

Our “pop ups” are going down a storm already this season.  The last visit made by Kernow Forno saw 70 plus pizzas consumed, and our biggest concern was them running out before getting ours! They served topless once again as despite a little bit of a showery week, the sun shone on the righteous as it always does!

Judging by the queues I saw whilst on duty in the office, as many (or may be more) cocktails and ciders were served too.

Breakfasts courtesy of The Cornish Maid are being well received, now that word has got around that The Meadows once again does breakfast, even if this time they do not cook it themselves. This

Being a small business ourselves, the “pop ups” are a great opportunity for us to support other equally “small’ and themeadows-camping-food-and-drink-fish-and-chipslocal businesses. The combination works well and they team up together to do food and drink on an evening, which is ideal for our campers, who often like to spend the evening at camp. This evening we have Chilli Nachos, washed down with Mojitos.

Newspapers – this is something we have been toying with for a while now, and is something a lot of guests enjoy.   For any one visiting from this point onwards, Newspapers are available but on an order by 7pm the night before basis.  It will also mean more newspapers in the recycling which will get used by John for the fire pits, so that will be a bonus!

For those arriving with us this season for the first time, if you have not already done so please check out our facilities page, and also our FAQ page on our website should you have ??s.  You will find lots of  information that is felt to be useful to you before you arrive.

S7000534News from Camp Dog – thank you for all your lovely comments (sarcastic and otherwise) with regard to my new sign.  It is indeed a very true likeness as was painted from an actual photograph of me.  It seems to be working well, and there has not been any incidents  and all dogs have been very well behaved. Still counting down the days to my high season haircut, as am sure many dogs are doing similar for their holiday haircut!

Weather – after an unsettled week, the barometer is moving well, and fingers crossed more settled weather is on its way. Even with the showery weather, there has been good spells of very warm sunshine in between.  It has been a case of lucky with the showers, one day, and unlucky the next!!

Bookings – Introduced to our home page is a new section for late availability/cancellations and those IMG_7102who plan to just turn up and take a chance.  You can always call too to check what we have, or drop an email detailing any flexibility on your dates.

Look forward to seeing many of you soon.

Lynn ( on behalf of the meadows team)

 

 

 

 

Our campers have been getting in the water…….

Posted on June 11, 2016 by Comments Off on Our campers have been getting in the water…….

We have had a super couple of weeks of very warm and sunny weather, and with lovely warm evenings too.

Our guests have certainly been making the most of the fabulous weather, and getting out and on, and in the water.  A number of our guests have taken up my recommendation of kayaking down the Fowey Estuary, and have thoroughly enjoyed this.  Kingfishers and all sorts of wildlife have been spotted, and the less experienced guests have not found it too difficult. Have a look at Fowey River Hire for more information.

DSC_6727The sea must also have warmed up since we opened, and our Wild Swimmers had their first swim camp.  There has been lots of sea dipping, and swimming both by dogs and humans. Our most popular coves for swimming seem to be Caerhays, Gorran Haven and Duporth.

Also out on the water Mackerel fishing trips are also very popular already, and we have smelt them cooking on the BBQ, so campers are being very lucky and getting a good catch.

Lazys picJohn and I find every week to be a completely different week on the campsite, with a new group of campers.  Our guests always seem to be a friendly bunch, and this is probably one of the most commented upon points about our campsite.  With our pop ups, and our lovely sunny seated deck, guests love to share their experiences and enjoy a cocktail and fire pit together! There has been some impromptu (always the best), singing and guitar playing, and even The Cornish Maid gave us a lovely tune one evening.

The green stripy deckchairs are becoming the most used “communal” deckchairs out, being used for breakfast, pre-dinner beer and cocktails, and even for devouring pizzas and fish and chips around the fire pit.  I have even joined in with my outdoor office, when my little shed was just a tad on the warm side, and so Harv and I moved outdoors.

Now so far, based upon guests’ feedback, these are the most popular places so far this season:-

  1. Caerhays Beach  – for swimming and sunbathing, with a gorgeous cafe for drinks, ice and lunch. This cover Caerhaysis also popular for parking up with your campervan, with a sea view on a showery day, ready to make a sharp exit and put the kettle on !
  2. Duporth beach (close to Charlestown) – in recent fab weather times, it is like being in paradise.
  3. Knightor Winery – for wine tours, and lunch outside in the lovely terraced courtyard.
  4. Kayaking – for novices, the most popular is a trip down the Fowey Estuary to Golant with Fowey River Hire. Our more experienced kayakers, like Porthpean and have been seal spotting from here, and Pentewan and Polkerris are also popular.
  5. All our pop ups are going down a treat so far this season as already mentioned.  Our campers feel very lucky themeadows-camping-food-and-drink-pizzato be able to sample one of top ten pizzas in the Country (as featured in The Times).
  6. S7000414Homemade (not by me) dog bandanas and bunting. Ours campers love getting in the spirit of things. In one day, I sold 13 bandanas, and so The Meadows must have the best dressed dogs in Cornwall.
  7. For food, our guests are loving The Hub Box, Sams on the Beach, The Kingswood Restaurant, and The Polgooth when there isn’t any food on offer at the Campsite.
  8. Heligan Gardens and Trewithen Gardens are looking fabulous at the moment as reported by our guests. The majority of our guests are enjoying walking up to Heligan and the £3.50 pp discount for doing so is Henry Cav - Ferrygetting them up the hill.
  9. As always the Mevagissey to Fowey has been on a lot of our guests must do things, and the welcome cooler air out at sea has gone down a treat.
  10. Walking – we have a new favourite. Our guests are all enjoying a circular walk from Mevaggisey to Gorran Haven SWCP, and then back via footpaths taking in a lovely wooded valley bringing you back out at Portmellon.  If you want to do this walk, just ask us the way. Of course the Mevagissey circular walk remains as popular as ever, picking up Lobbs Farm Treats, and fish from Mevagissey harbour on route.
  11. Even during the heatwave,  our fire pits have been very popular.  Some days, delivery has required the use of the tractor and trailer with all fire pits, bbq and wood deliveries as the legs and wheelbarrow did just not cut it.

NEWS from Camp Dog Harvey –  If I was on commission for bandana sales, I would be holidaying inS7000534 Barbados this winter! Am always happy to pass my opinion on colour and style, and  whether it makes your bum look big ;).  I am counting down the days at the moment to my high season haircut, as I am starting to resemble a woolly sheep.

One of our regular guests arrived this week, with a new sign for me, and it is nice to see how seriously my role here is taken.

Arriving with us this week? – Falmouth is the place to visit.  Between 17-19 June there is the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, and the Falmouth Classics Regatta. Our pop ups will all be popping up too!

S7000293BOOKINGS – we are at present pretty full for both hook ups and “proper camping” from now really well in to August.   For late availability, you are best to give us a call to see what we can do.  Our booking system is a flexible one, so we have people coming and going every day, which means we do have the odd gaps here and there, and cancellations do come about.

 

For those who don’t know, we are a smallish adult only campsite in South Cornwall, close to Pentewan and Mevagissey.  We are a good campsite for walkers and cyclists and those who want to enjoy the gardens of Heligan and Eden. We are campfire and dog friendly, and we have visiting pop ups throughout the season.

Lynn x

 

Camping, grown up style……

Posted on May 26, 2016 by Comments Off on Camping, grown up style……

IMG_7102After you have ensured that you are not booking in to anything other than an “adults only campsite”, (we are dog friendly too) it is time to check out the best of what is on offer for grown ups.

I have done lots of posts about walking (which I love), food (which I also love), and so for some other ideas if you are visiting soon:-

  1. Last year quite a number of our guests ventured out with Fowey River Hire this was for the guided canoe expeditions, and also hiring kayaks out.  The feedback was excellent and indeed guests have even told us that they enjoyed it so much they have bought their own kayaks for this year. This years dates and times are out with regular expeditions and for more information prior to arriving check out their website. The Fowey Estuary really is a great place to try out kayaking and is not only beautiful, but the waters are far calmer than out on the open sea.  If it is a guided tour, then my understanding is that there is usually a stop off at the pub in the pretty Golant village.
  2. imageOur guests seem to be a fit bunch, and so I am sure some of you would be up for cycling along the trail and country lanes to visit a few of the local vineyards. In one direction, there is Polmassick Vineyard and also very close by Bosue Vineyard.  Both do tasting and tours, and at Polmassick cream teas are also available.  A good cycle ride, but well worth it in another direction you will find Knightor Winery. As well as tasting and tours, Knightor has a lovely cafe & restaurant open in the daytime and evenings, and they host also feast nights which make for a great night out. Need a bike then contact Stuart at Pentewan Valley Cycle Hire
  3. Campers who venture out to Falmouth always seem to have a good day out, and Falmouth is one our favourite Cornish towns.  There are lots of little independent shops, a huge choice of restaurants, and lots of Henry Cav - Ferrylittle ferry crossings to the likes of St Mawes, Flushing and other boaty places. Head out there 17-19 June and you will see the Falmouth Classics Regatta. A little bit later in June 27 June-2 July it is the Pendennis Cup. Whilst out that way, it would be a good time to take a little diversion and head off to The Pandora Inn at Restronguet.  This was last year voted the best pub in Cornwall and you will not be disappointed.
  4. ferryMy idea of a great car free day out would be an early start and catch the first ferry over to Fowey. On landing in Fowey, I would head off to Pinky Murphys for coffee.  After a mooch around Fowey, I would walk round on the SWCP to Polkerris and feast outside at Sams on the Beach with a bowl of gorgeous Fowey River Mussels. Depending if time was in my favour, it would be the bus or ferry back.  If time was in my favour I would walk back from Mevagissey via Lobbs Farm Shop and pick up some goodies for supper.

cyderfarmNot forgetting for the beer/cider lovers out there St Austell Brewery Tour, Skinners Brewery Tour, and Healeys Cider Farm.  Well, I say tour, but of course it is tour and sample, as the two go hand in hand.  If heading to Skinners you can catch the bus or train to st-austell-breweryTruro then nobody has to drive.  St Austell Brewery is just up the road, but again on the bus route.

Food 

I don’t think I can write a post without including food!!

For the foodies out there, our regular wood fired pizza and fish & chips start in June, and also breakfasts.   Also on in June locally are

18-25 June 2106 St Austell Feast Week

21-22 June Fowey Mussel Fest

News from Camp Dog Harvey (aka HRH)S7000414

For all you handbag dogs out there I have passed on the bandana feedback and hopefully a selection of smaller ones will arrive in time for Summer.  Great for the forthcoming heatwave as you can wet it and keep cool, in more ways than one.

What I have learnt this week from under the desk!  New answer for “can you walk to the Eden Project from here” – technically, yes you can, and around it and back as someone did from here the other day.  I was well impressed but now in my more mature years, I won’t be following suit ;).

IMG_7106Bookings – our diary is a very busy one, with only the odd gaps here and there, and a couple of cancellations available.  This is except at the moment for “proper camping” between 3-10 June.  There must be something really, really exciting going on elsewhere in the Country.  However, if you are a spur of the moment camper, why not take up this opportunity of lots of space and book.  This could of course all change very quickly if the anticipated 90 day heatwave transpires.

The Meadows Campsite is an adult only (and dog friendly) campsite/caravan site in South Cornwall, close to Heligan, Eden, Mevagissey and Charlestown.  We love campfires, bunting, all things quirky and people from all walks of life.

To book call 01726 844383, or complete the contact form and you will get a swift response.

 

Spring Bank Holiday Camping Bonanza……

Posted on May 16, 2016 by Comments Off on Spring Bank Holiday Camping Bonanza……

IMG_7106After a fabulous first bank holiday weekend, we have been working hard to make the second just as good.

Well, using our extensive powers of charm and persuasion, we have persuaded our local pop ups to pop along over the weekend.  This means there will be a way of escaping  the half term madness, and you can retreat back to camp in the evening.  We have new fire pits, and all of the old ones too, and our wood stacks, are still a plenty.

For all those booked in, here  is what is on offer for the weekend:-

  1. Sunday – we have Cornish breakfast including doorstep sandwiches made with Kittows Sausage and bacon, and other delights served up by the Cornish Maid.Lazys pic
  2. Saturday evening – the Cornish Maid will be here serving up Chilli Nachos or similar.
  3. Sunday evening, we have Kernowforno (as recently featured in The Times 😉 ) here, cooking up their amazing wood fired pizzas fresh to order.
  4. To go with our pop up food Lazys (by name, but not by nature) Travelling Bar will be here.  I understand that this time there will be some new cider cocktails on the menu amongst other things.

From the beginning of June, our regular nights will also be starting with pizzas on Tuesdays, and fish & chips on a Thursday. The pop up bar and Cornish Maid (breakfast) will also be making regular appearances

Our pop ups now have their own page on our website – please  check this out, with some great pictures that I will add to as the season revs up a gear, or two!

Now, as for the weather, it has to be kind and the long term forecast does look that way.  For long term, John andS7000509 I look at the farmers’ forecast.  For short term, after recent inaccurate BBC forecasting we came up with our own weather stone.

S7000242For bank holiday walking, Heligan Gardens is looking lovely.  The walk up there is also lovely and hopefully the bluebells will still be out.  The walkers discount offered by Heligan should be enough to get you up the hill. The SWCP is also looking fabulous as our walking guests are keeping us regularly updated.

The season so far has got off to a great start, and there has been lots of lovely guests visiting.  Last week Camp Dog Harvey made a new friend called Derek.  Derek has been a cavalier owner all of his life and is 94! A sole motor homer owner who had come a long way to see Cornwall once again, and certainly did not let his age stand in his way. Heligan Garden, Caerhays, Ferrying from Mevagissey to Fowey were all ticked off. With the great weather there was also plenty of time for relaxing on the campsite in a chair with a good book.  Derek did  lots of book swaps, and so if you pick up a Clive Cussler whilst you are here, it is probably one of his.

The wildflower meadow should be looking super by the time the bank holiday is upon us.  Everything has all of a sudden gone mad, and the ragged robin and yellow flag irises are shooting up.

If John can just catch our resident moles who are giving us a daily runaround all would be fabulous.  Moles are very cute creatures, but why do they like the greenest areas of the campsite.

News from Camp Dog – I am now back in the swing of everything.  I am first in the office in the morning, and S7000414last out at night (very true) ! Apart from being trodden on a few times, life is good being back on duty.  All of those on four legs have been extremely well behaved. With my stylish good looks I have made a few dog bandana sales and so am earning my keep.

IMG_7102Bookings – there is not a lot left now for hook ups until the end of August, except for the odd cancellations that come in.  For “proper camping” (none electric) there are many dates where we are down to our last couple of spaces for advance booking.  This means if you have us in mind, then please get in touch sooner rather than later.

 

Touring Cornwall the Cool Camping way – we are always worth a try if it is just for the odd night, or two.  Please give us a call, or email us, or just drop in should you be passing by. The Meadows is just for adults, and very dog friendly, and a great spot if you enjoy walking/cycling and don’t mind a few hills.  Situate in the Pentewan Valley, The Meadows is great for Mevagissey, Heligan and even the Eden Project.

Lynn ( on behalf of The Meadows Team)

 

What a great opening weekend

Posted on May 3, 2016 by Comments Off on What a great opening weekend

S7000293Well, in our year one I think we had about 6 units on the campsite for the first bank holiday, and one of those was Martin Dorey with his Reporter hat on.  That meant we very slowly eased our way in to the season, which was good really as we were complete novices.

This year was a completely different story and we had  almost a full campsite.  That made for a fantastic weekend, as with some great sunshine, as well as a frost, and with foodie/drinkie delights all was good.  Being rather nesh myself, I was very impressed with the number of “proper campers” for our first weekend, especially those who woke to frozen tents.  Hardy, there were as after waking to a frost, about an hour later about 30 of them were swimming in the sea in costumes NO WETSUITS !! A shout out to Pauline Barker the organiser of the wild swimming camp and what a lovely group they were.  They had fire pit every night, a swim every day, and after there swim there was lots of ooh aaahing coming from the shower block at the delight of our lovely hot showers.

S7000495A lot of our campers travelled lightly for the weekend bringing, lots of layers of clothes and not leaving much too Lazys picfor room.  Our wild swimming group, and also the rest of our guests on the campsite, were very pleased to make full advantage of the food offerings on site this weekend.  These were courtesy of Kerno Fornow cooking up wood fired pizzas fresh to order, The Cornish Maid cooking up doorstep breakfast sandwiches, porridge and hot drinks and Lazy’s Travelling Bar, who did not have time to be Lazy !! I made the mistake of saying to The Cornish Maid “don’t think you will be busy so early in the season” to then watch a constant queue from her starting serving to the end of her service.  Of course the brekkie had to get the swimmers from Porthpean to Charlestown & back!!

Saturday night with the pizzas and Lazy’s bar working in tandem, glorious sunshine and all our fire pits going, IMG_0992there was one of the best atmospheres I can remember.  John & I always say that The Meadows attracts lovely like minded people from all walks of life, and some extremely cute dogs.

S7000490Despite, being a bit slow for everything natural (like grass, plants, trees etc), we did look lovely when we opened.  We made up for the lack of natural colour with extra bunting and fairy lights.

It has been good walking weather, and our early guests have almost all enjoyed the DSC_6544Mevagissey circular walk with a stop of at The Ship (why not)!

This means next bank holiday has a lot to live up to, as the benchmark has been set high.  I am working on the next one to see what I can pull out of the bag with the support of our local lovelies.

IMG_6785Bookings – we have very little left for high season if electricity is a must, and “proper camping” pitches are getting booked up for those we book out in advance.  If you still have us in mind for your summer holiday then you can book by completing the contact form, or giving us a call.  We do keep a few casual electric and “proper camping” pitches for those touring around,  and those who like to book last minute.

For first time visitors, The Meadows Campsite, is an adult only quirky campsite, and we are dog friendly. We are good for camping and caravanning for Mevagissey, Heligan Gardens, and we are IMG_7102also close to Eden. For walkers and cyclists, we are situate directly on the Coast to Clay Trail and for walkers this links up to the SWCP. We love campfires, nature, bunting and anything on the quirky side.  We also love showing our guests the food and drink delights of this local area.

Look forward to seeing all of those booked in with us soon. Next weekend is set to be another busy one, and the weather forecast is looking very good – not a frost in sight!

Lynn x

Getting ready for inspection by our campers!

Posted on March 31, 2016 by Comments Off on Getting ready for inspection by our campers!

The opening of the gates is fast approaching, and all the jobs are getting completed.IMG_7111

At this time of the year, we always think back to the previous seasons and most importantly what we have learnt along the way.  As a lot of regular guests will know, we were complete novices when we arrived here back in 2012, and so we had to learn quickly.

One thing we learnt quickly is that we cannot be all things to all campers.  We came here with a good idea of how we wanted our campsite to be, and we have pretty much stuck to this.  Our general idea and ethos,  seems to work well. So many of our guests comment on the extremely relaxed, respectful and very friendly atmosphere on the campsite, which is created by our guests.

However, we do also like to learn from our guests, and there are always ways we can improve the campsite, even if it is just tweaking, whilst staying true to ourselves and not resting on our laurels.  This is where our guests reviews come in very useful indeed, although of course this is only one way to use independent reviews.  Reviews are great for us, and it enables new guests to get independent views of The Meadows before making the all important decision as to is it a campsite for them!

John and I, of and of course Harvey too who often gets a mention really appreciate the feedback you give us, and it is great for us to know that we are making our guests happy.

To read some of our 2015 season Trip Advisor reviews see here: https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g528878-d3451499-Reviews-or10-The_Meadows_Campsite-St_Austell_Cornwall_England.html

Some of our favourite comments, although there are so many that make us smile, 

“WOW!! That just about sums up the The Meadows…
Lovely owners, Lynn is very attentive and knows just about everywhere to go to have a good time.

We loved the pop up cocktail bar and pizza guys. The pizza was soooo delicious.
They had two very happy campers even if the weather was a bit hit and miss. Loved the campfires and the IMG_0992decorated tents. I would highly recommend The Meadows. Peaceful, fun and delightful. Thanks for having us!”- August 2015.

“We loved it so much we have already sent in a request to go back next year!! We arrived as guests and left as friends. Can’t wait to go back! Thank you again”  – August 2015

“the best compliment that we can pay is that we had booked for a 2 week holiday, but enjoyed the area and site so much that we booked for my wife to stay for an extra week whilst I had to return to work 🙁 – the benefits of working in a school I suppose!!!!
We will be back to this great site – well done to John and Lynn for creating a fantastic place to stay” – August 2015
 “We have just returned from a week ‘proper camping’ at The Meadows and I would happily turn the car around and drive back and stay there forever”  August 2015

“We had yet another wonderful week at The Meadows. Lynn, John and Harvey are the warmest, friendliest owners you could wish to meet. They have all the information you could possibly need for a fantastic break in St Austell. The campsite is refreshingly relaxed as far as bringing along your additional family members, ie dogs, cats, and even parrots – although, of course, common sense must prevail. We enjoyed freshly made pizzas and cocktails which were delicious. Sadly we missed Fish and Chip night but are assured these are just as good. The amenities are exceptionally clean and up-to-date, ie the shower rooms are very spacious. Everything you can possibly need to have a fabulous holiday is here in this wonderful little campsite.” July 2015

 

“In five or so years of touring in our campervan, this has to be one of the best – if not THE best – site we’ve stayed at. Striking the right balance between rural, small and friendly and yet professionally run with immaculate facilities isn’t always easy, it seems, but The Meadows has got it spot on. From the moment we arrived, to be greeted by Lynn with a warm welcome and helpful and practical information about the area, we felt at home. The site is relaxed and casual, but there’s no mistaking the ongoing work that Lynn and John put into making this such a wonderful place to stay.”

 

“We booked as a group some months back as stumbled across this delightful adult only campsites website by accident. What a find!

John and Lynne made us feel incredibly welcome as soon as we arrived, guiding us to our pitch and explaining about all the amazing things to see and visit in the area.

The site is excellently maintained and both John and Lynne work tirelessly to ensure the site is extremely clean, tidy and pleasant, we don’t think that we have ever seen a couple work so hard and such long hours on a campsite before.

The toilets and showers are spotlessly clean, with regular cleaning done throughout the day.

Decent sized pitches and the added bonus of John replenishing the fire pit each night was very welcome.

These two have certainly got a campsite to be proud of and do an amazing job, just a shame that their weather forecasting skills are not up to par ha ha.

A lot of campsites in Cornwall could learn a lot of from these two.”

And the one that got Camp Dog Harvey his last warning….
“I have to say though that Harvey the chief of camp security has clearly been promoted well beyond the limit of imagehis guard dog ability and might need a new job description such as chief snoozer.”
Bookings
For those wanting to stay with the comfort of electric, then you need to hurry up and book as pitches are now very limited during high season, and for the second part of June.  You can contact us here, or telephone 01726 844383.
28 days to opening and counting down …………..
Finally, for those who have just stumbled upon us, we are a smallish campsite just for grown ups, dog and campfire friendly, close to the coast, Eden, Heligan and Mevagissey.  We are good for walkers, cyclists, and foodies, and those who just want a relaxing holiday with lots to see and do close by.
Lynn