Posted on April 19, 2017
by Lynn
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
Posted in:
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Tags:
Adult only campsite,
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south west coast path,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Posted on June 11, 2016
by Lynn
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.
The 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.
John 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:-
- Caerhays Beach – for swimming and sunbathing, with a gorgeous cafe for drinks, ice and lunch. This cover is 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 !
- Duporth beach (close to Charlestown) – in recent fab weather times, it is like being in paradise.
- Knightor Winery – for wine tours, and lunch outside in the lovely terraced courtyard.
- 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.
- All our pop ups are going down a treat so far this season as already mentioned. Our campers feel very lucky to be able to sample one of top ten pizzas in the Country (as featured in The Times).
- Homemade (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.
- 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.
- 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 getting them up the hill.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 in 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!
BOOKINGS – 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
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Attractions in the area,
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Facilities At The Meadows,
Mevagissey,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Caerhays,
Campfires,
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Camping Mevagissey,
caravan site near eden project,
dog friendly campsite,
Eden Project,
heligan gardens,
just for adults,
SWCP,
The Eden project
Posted on May 26, 2016
by Lynn
After 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:-
- 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.
- Our 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
- 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 little 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.
- My 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.
Not 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 Truro 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)
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 ;).
Bookings – 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.
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Adult only caravan site,
Attractions in the area,
Eating Out,
Fowey,
St Austell,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Adult only caravan site,
Campfires,
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Camping Mevagissey,
caravan site near eden project,
Dog friendly,
Eden Project,
Foodie,
Fowey,
heligan gardens,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Posted on March 31, 2016
by Lynn
The opening of the gates is fast approaching, and all the jobs are getting completed.
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 decorated 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
his 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
Posted in:
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Facilities At The Meadows,
New owners at The Meadows,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Camping Mevagissey,
caravan site near eden project,
Dog friendly,
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heligan gardens,
SWCP,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site
Posted on May 8, 2015
by Lynn
The Meadows – for camping close to Mevagissey
Most of our visitors for the 2015 season are now booked in, and counting down to their holiday. With a bit of good planning and thinking ahead, you are sure to get the most out of your jolly.
Here are our top tips for getting the most out of your Cornish camping trip, especially for all those Cornish virgins out there:-
1. First and foremost, buy a map of the local area. The ordnance survey explorer maps are great for “exploring”, and also a great tool for planning walks, cycle rides and scenic drives. For us, covering Mevaggisey, Truro, Falmouth and the Roseland, Map 105 is the best one. We do sell here the little yellow maps which are very popular and may be enough if you are just on foot/bicycle.
2. Have a look at the What’s On guide for Cornwall, and check out what is happening in the county during your stay. It is so easy to get around the county from base camp, The Meadows, and so worth the drive for something special. There are some great country fairs and vintage rallies, such as The St Ewe Country Fair and the Bocconnoc Steam Rally.
For the month of May, I have done this research for you, and here are just a few of events happening, and most of these are near by.
May –
Helston Flora Day – today, and so one to think about for next May!
Fowey Festival of Words and Music 9-16 May
Port Elliot Dog Festival – 9/5. This has to be lots of fun.
Eden Classic Cycle Ride – 10 May. A chance to cycle around the whole of the Eden Project.
Lostfest – a one day Festival, with lots packed in with stalls, foodie, cider/cornish ale, music and just generally lots of things happening to make for a full day of fun. This is in Lostwithiel.
Not an event, but always a wonderful place, Heligan Gardens and the fabulous little piglets.
My understanding is that the film set at Portholland will be in place until around the end of this month. Good idea to park at Caerhays and walk around to it on the SWCP.
3. Check out any offers for the Gardens of Cornwall, in particular those local to us, Eden and The Lost Gardens of
Heligan. Last year Gardeners World did a great offer, and the gardens themselves had a great offer for those visiting both. You should also look at arriving at the gardens under their own steam as there is often a reward for doing so.
4. Whilst away on holiday, this is a time to check out the lovely Country pubs that a stay cation is so great for. One of our favourite books, for ensuring you are heading for a great pub is to check out those in the area in Aistair Sawday’s Special Pub Book, or the Sawday website. For those bringing their four legged friend, doggie pubs is also a great app to have on your phone, although Cornish Landlords and Landlies are far more accepting of dogs than other areas of the country, and it is unusual for a dog not to be welcome.
5. Check out your camping gear before you get here. This will avoid spending the first day of your holiday visiting the camping shops to replace, buy things you have forgotten, or that you broke last time, and intended to replace, but never got around to it.
Catch mackerel with Chris from Aquila
6. This high season we hope to be offering food on two evenings of the week, but we know our campers like to cook up their own delights. Holidays are a great time to try out new dishes, and being a fishy area Paella is a good one, and of course freshly caught (by you) mackerel on the bbq. Bring some recipes with you, and have on board all your essential ingredients. For campervanners we like the list The Campervan Cook Martin Dorey did in his book, and we have tasted his cooking, and it is good!!
Other Meadows News
We had a great turn out for May day bank holiday weekend, even though the weather was not the kindest. However, early campers are we find a hardy bunch, and they all had their bbqs and fire pits going and did not let a bit of the wet stuff spoil their first camping trip of the season. We had dogs in coats and hoodies, adults in hats and scarves one minute and tee shirts and shorts the next.
Cosy up in Mabel
Lottie and Mabel Caravans both were blessed with guests for the weekend who cozied up in them as they both have heaters, and thick duvets and so guests keep toasty warm.
The meadow flower is growing nicely, and at bank holiday a lot of the secluded pitches were occupied, and once again, those furthest in were the most popular.
Poldark – nearly all our visitors so far have made a visit to Charlestown to check out the harbour that featured in Poldark. We even had guests walk there on the SWCP on one of the blustery days, which was very well done indeed.
Buses
Following the sudden ending of the Western Greyhound busy company, we are now getting used to the new local bus services. This service First Service 24 is proving very popular and reliable John has even made a new bus stop sign as before it was a very Cornish bus stop and nobody wants to upset the bus driver by standing in the wrong spot.
It is great news that we now have a bus going to Gorran Haven, and also to Polgooth, handy for the Polgooth Inn.
Checking everything out from the bank of bluebells
News from Camp Dog Harvey –
Bank holiday was great for me, not too hot for working, and lots going on for me to look at. I also managed to fit in some nice walks along the river to the village checking out the bluebells, campion, a dipper, yellow wagtails and some swifts along the way.
My girls’ eggs were very popular over the bank holiday weekend and sold out quickly. At present I am trying to increase productively, but so far this is not going well.
Bookings
It is great that we appear to be popular, and we like being on the smaller side, but this does mean we cannot accommodate all who want to stay. For the coming bank holiday, we are fully booked now on our main pitches, so all we have are our casual pitches and “proper camping” (none electric). However last bank holiday, we did have a few cancel at the 11th hour so we are always worth a try for cancellations and telephoning is best. For first time visitors, we are an adults only campsite, and dog friendly, close to Mevagissey, South Cornwall. We make a great base for a walking or cycling holiday in Cornwall.
For the rest of the season, give us a try and let us know if your dates are flexible in any way, as we try to be ourselves.
Look out for our camper van signs
You can call 01726 844383 or contact us by email .
For those who are booked to stay with us at Bank holiday, we are hoping that there will be fried eggs in the sky this time. As usual if the weather is not so kind John and I will take full responsibility as Campsite Owners.
Happy Friday
Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey
Posted in:
Adult only Campsite,
Adult only caravan site,
Attractions in the area,
Eating Out,
Mevagissey,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
Adult only caravan site,
Caerhays,
Campfires,
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Camping Mevagissey,
Campsites allowing campfires,
caravan site near eden project,
Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
Dog friendly pubs,
Eden Project,
Foodie,
Fowey,
heligan gardens,
just for adults,
vw campervans,
Walking holiday in Cornwall
Posted on August 31, 2013
by Lynn
Well 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.
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.
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!!!
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.
Well, 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 been 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.
Posted in:
Attractions in the area,
Facilities At The Meadows,
Lottie our caravan,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
camping site near Eden project,
caravan site near eden project,
Dog friendly,
Eden Project,
heligan gardens,
mevagissey,
pentewan,
south west coast path,
the meadows campsite,
vw campervans
Posted on June 29, 2013
by Lynn
Walking around Black Head
Everything is good here at The Meadows Campsite, Pentewan. All of our campers seem happy ones, and our visitors certainly get out and about. The walking maps and books are getting well used, and we really enjoy suggesting walks to our guests of varying lengths and difficulty. The particular favourite walk at the moment is walking around Black Head, taking in Hallane Beach, and The Ship Inn in Pentewan itself. Most guests take the route that means The Ship is at the end of their walk, so that they have walked up a good thirst, as there are a few climbs en route, but well worth it.
This week has of course been Mevagissey Feast week and most of our guests have enjoyed at least one event. One of our guests has particularly enjoyed the singing on the jetty and around the harbour. On the opening day the procession and the fishy food were enjoyed by lots. With the bus stop just a few paces outside our gates, a lot of our guests have hopped on the bus avoiding the hassle of parking, as feast week has been very well supported, meaning parking space were hard to come by.
What a stylish tent
Being a none commercialised, individual site we find this has a big up side. We are getting to meet lots of different people, pitching up in many ways. This weekend we have several guests who have arrived under their own steam, and who get a discounted rate for doing so. We have all sorts of tents on site, in varying shapes and sizes, including our first VW Campervan tent. There are lots of “proper campers” in this weekend, making a camping weekend of the Eden Sessions. Our firepits and bbqs are proving very popular, and John has been very busy with breakfast baguettes.
Prom night
This week Jessie a VW van and her friend popped in with some high school children on board for a pre-prom photo session. At the same time, we had quite a few campervans in from the Netherlands, Germany & Spain, and really enjoyed watching the marking of end of high school. It is nice to have such a mix of tents, motorhomes, campervans, and caravans. In this lovely dry weather vans are venturing right down to the bottom of the stream, pitching along side tents.
Our gorgeous Lottie
Our vintage van Lottie is attracting lots of attention especially from walkers along the Pentewan Valley Trail. Lottie does look really lovely now that she is all decked out and fits in very well here at The Meadows. As she was a late arrival, there is still a lot of availability for this season. If you should want to book either a weekly stay, or short/weekend break, then please contact us by email or telephone 01726 844383. Please also check out Lottie’s web page for more information, and pictures.
News from Camp Dog
I continue to be very busy, but for most of the time I am happy, even if I don’t look like I am.
Canine drinking station – drink responsibly!
Since we opened camp gates, I have saved my pocket money and this week purchased two nice bowls for my canine friends, and set up a drinking station. Can I please ask that all four legged guests remember to drink responsibly whilst on their holiday.
Some of my guests this week took the ferry over to Fowey from Mevagissey. This comes highly recommended, as both places are pretty with nice walks, and dog friendly places. As I will be working all season, I might not get to try it out so thank you to my trusty advisers.
I am pleased that this week, someone has taken my title off me for the loudest snorer at The Meadows. Not naming a name, but on two legs, and in a one man tent – you know who you are ;).
Bookings
One of our secluded pitches
We will always try and fit you in if we can, however we are a fairly small site. John has made some fabulous “proper camping” pitches further down our field, and which are proving very popular. For advance bookings, we limit our numbers, but in dry periods additional “proper camping” pitches will be available so it is always worth giving us a try for last minute trips. You can contact us here, or by telephone on 01726 884383. We are great for Mevagissey and Pentewan Camping, and very close to the Eden Project. We are also within walking distance of Heligan Gardens, and on the national cycle route, with a bus stop outside the gate. What more could you want/need from a campsite?!
Posted on June 22, 2013
by Lynn
The Meadows Team all like to be busy, and busy we are.
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.
If 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.
Posted in:
Attractions in the area,
Facilities At The Meadows,
Lottie our caravan,
New owners at The Meadows,
Renovation Work,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Camping and Caravanning Pentewan,
Camping Mevagissey,
camping site near Eden project,
caravan site near eden project,
Dog friendly,
Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
Dog friendly pubs,
Dog friendly walks,
Foodie,
Fowey,
Pentewan Valley,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Posted on June 13, 2013
by Lynn
News Flash from Camp Dog Harvey
Thank you to all my four legged friends who visited the famous Eden Project last month for the pilot weekend. You did all us four legged friends proud, and were all on your best behaviour and it was gold stars/gravy bones all round.
Eden are now welcoming us all as from Saturday 15 June, and being dog friendly, but we must all obey the RULES!!! Provided we all do this then we can enjoy a fabulous day out with our owners, as of course we are part of the family and do not see why we should be left out.
It makes sense to digest and learn the Rules prior to your visit to Eden. We don’t want any one spoiling it for others, especially me who now has to wait until the end of season before I can visit a place which I have heard so much about.
The Eden Project Rules:
Thou shall:
1. Be kept on a lead at all times.
2. Be with their owners at all times.
3. Only be walked on paths
4. Be kept away from play areas
5. Not go in to any buildings, other than the Visitor Centre.
Please also ensure your owners do not forget their “pooh bags”!!
Eden are now showing their “dog friendly” side, and in return for best behaviour we get:-
1. Water bowls – not sure it will be my favourite Evian, but we can do tap, to visit such a special place.
2.Our own special undercover dining area on the terrace outside the Eden Bakery. Ensure your owners remember your pack-up. Mine will consist of 2 gravy bones, and one boneo.
3. Shaded parking areas in four of the car parks. The shelters in the Orange car park have a water tap, and stewards will supply us with water to the other three car parks. Your owners needs to park in either Melon, Orange, Lemon, or Cherry car park.
I would love you to come and stay here at “The Meadows” Campsitevwhilst you are in Cornwall to visit Eden, and tell me all about it so I know what to expect when I get to go. You may also visit the fabulous Heligan Gardens whilst you are staying here, which is Dog Friendly, and you can walk there from the site, along the Pentewan Valley Trail.
We (that is me Camp Dog Harvey), Lynn and John are very “Dog Friendly” and you are all most welcome here at “The Meadows”, so get your owners to ring up and book you in. The Meadows is a small, sheltered campsite in the beautiful Pentewan Valley, and look out for our sign with the caravan on the top.
We cater for motorhomes/campervans, tents (all shapes & sizes), and caravans. We will also have our own Vintage Caravan Lottie from tomorrow which is available to rent, and is also dog friendly. Dogs come along to The Meadows free of charge, so your owners have no excuse, so ensure you do not get left behind as of course you are a very important member of the family!!!
This is a great site, if we say so ourselves for camping close to Mevagissey & Pentewan, St Austell, Cornwall. There is also lots of great walking around St Austell Bay, and I am happy to put my tour guide hat on, and show you some of my favourite walks, and dog friendly pubs.
To book contact us here, or telephone Lynn or John on 01726 844383/07712599745.
Posted in:
Attractions in the area,
Facilities At The Meadows,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Tags:
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Camping and Caravanning Pentewan,
Camping Mevagissey,
camping site near Eden project,
caravan site near eden project,
Dog friendly,
Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
Dog friendly walks,
Pentewan Valley,
The Eden project,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Posted on June 10, 2013
by Lynn
Well, our first month since opening our camp gates at The Meadows has flown by.
We are so lucky with the weather, as we have had some gorgeous sunny days. Being in a sheltered spot our campers have really felt the warmth of the sun. Our campers have been going home looking relaxed, and with a very healthy glow about them.
All members of the team (that’s me Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey), are new to the campsite business. This 2013 venture has been a real adventure for an ex fire-fighter, ex lawyer, and ex settee/log burner hogger.
We have really enjoyed our first few weeks. It has been hard (but in a nice way) work, but 2 out of the 3 of us like hard work. As for the 3rd member of the team we are very proud of Camp Dog as he has happily shared his playground with all visitors, even though he has yet to break out in a sweat.
Of course, we feel we have done well, but it is not what we think that matters, it is what our guests feel about their experience here that is really the judgement!!!
The main camping bible seems to be UK Campsites, and it is here our guests have been reviewing “The Meadows”. We would invite you to have a look at our reviews, to see what our first guests say and you can do so here.
After only a couple of days of being open, Martin Dorey, the campevan cookbook man visited us with his family. Martin was writing a feature for the “Camping” Magazine on the South West, and booked a visit after checking out our webiste. Our site has now been featured in the July issue as an ideal campsite for visiting gardens of Cornwall, in particular Heligan Gardens, and the Eden Project.
This is an extract of the article:-
“John & Lynn have transformed what was not much more than an illegal caravan graveyard into a lovely meadow site with a heart of gold. With no mobile homes in sight, it’s just my kind of camping. The refurbished amenities block is spotless (and with some powerful showers too), there are no allotted pitches, or a long list of regulations……………………. and dogs are welcomed. The meadow itself is lovely – we saw kingfishers darting along the stream and heard owls hooting at night.”
Martin also said
“I think this little gem could be one to watch for the future”
“They plan to serve up cooked breakfasts, (note – we have now served about 70 of John’s baguettes,) put in a small lake (note – winter project), open up walks through the woods (note – winter project) and get chickens (note – our girls are settled in and now laying to order!!!). These plans will only add to the basic but friendly nature of the site. I’m looking forward to going back.” – Martin Dorey
Other news:-
“Lottie” We are counting down the days until Lottie arrives as we are all very excited. Lottie will be available for rental from 17 June, and please call 01726 844383 or email us for further details.
Meadows Springwatch – we have seen baby woodpeckers here, baby blue tits and our campers at the bottom of the meadow field spotted deer again this morning. We also have a very cheeky squirrel at the moment, who fascinates Camp Dog.
My New Zealand sister Deb and my parents are here with us this week. As a result of their visit, we have an owl box going up made by my dad, and some fantastic photographs of the site made in to collages which my sister has taken and which are amazing. Watch out for some changes to the gallery and there will be a board of photos going up in the office.
Mum and Dad Bowler came in their caravan, pitched stream side and have been enjoying caravanning at The Meadows and chatting to other campers.
Mevagissey feast week is fast approaching and is on between 23-29 June. John is a member of a team for the Sunday Raft Race and with his fellow team members is busy planning and building the raft, and they are taking it all very seriously!! Please give The Pentewan Pirates a cheer along if you are joining in Mevagissey Feast week. There is a full programme of events so it is going to be a fabulous week.
Heligan & Eden are both getting geared up for the summer season and there is so much going on at both.
We have had some very keen walkers staying with us recently enjoying the South West Coastal path. The area around Black Head is a particularly stunning part of the coast, and our guests all say the steep ups and downs are well worth it.
News from Camp Dog Harvey
Unfortunately, due to having a had a poorly paw, I have not much to report. The last few days, I have been mainly office based, resting up. I am now on the road to recovery so will be back out and about on inspection and exploring duties soon 🙂
This is a really lovely time to visit the Gardens of Cornwall, and to walk parts of the gorgeous and stunning coastal path, or just to explore the many beautiful coastal towns and villages, such as Mevagissey and Fowey. Of course it is also a quieter time, as we still have a few weeks before the children break up from school. We would invite you to give The Meadows a try, as we are a very welcoming and friendly small and dog friendly site.
We cater for motorhomes, caravans, and tents of all shapes and sizes. You can either book in advance and contact us here, or by telephone 01726 844383. Alternatively just pack your tent/van and turn up and just your pitch on arrival. The Meadows caravan and camping park is great for holidaying close to Pentewan, Mevagissey and St Austell.
Posted in:
Facilities At The Meadows,
New owners at The Meadows,
Renovation Work
Tags:
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Camping and Caravanning Pentewan,
camping site near Eden project,
caravan site near eden project,
Dog friendly walks,
Pentewan Caravaning,
The Eden project,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site