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

 

 

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.

 

Great weather for doing…………

Posted on August 13, 2015 by Comments Off on Great weather for doing…………

IMG_6820With only two pairs of hands, oh and four paws there is always a job to be done running a campsite.  Whilst I have been quite good getting my camera out whilst out and about on the campsite, this has not followed through until today as a Blog post.

Well, before we knew it, August was here, and now we are almost half way through August too. Quite fairly, I suppose  all our guests seem so far seem to be getting a mixed bag of weather.  There has been lots of sunshine, a little bit of rain (well quite a lot on a couple of occasions), and some hot days, and some not so hot.

The very big up side of this summer’s weather is that it is great weather for “doing”.  Our recent guests have certainly been doers, and have been out and about on land and sea.  Kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding is extremely popular. We have had quite a few guests kayaking between the lovely Porthpean and Carlyon Bay.  Of course Carlyon Bay has Sams on the Bay and now a fish bar too, so a great stop off place.

Walking – it has not been too hot for long walks, on a lot of days.  A lot of guests are big walkers, and we agree that you see so much more on two legs.  The current favourite walks are:-

DSC_65441. Number 1 – the Mevagissey Circular Walk, heading there joining the trail at our gate, and then returning via the SWCP, and of course also via The Ship Inn, Pentewan and back up the River.  A lovely day walk.  This one I expect will always stay at number 1.

DSC_6758Number 2 – another great circular walk to the gorgeous Charlestown.  Again this walks starts at our gate, joining the trail going in the other direction linking up to the Coast Path.  The return leg is via footpaths from Porthpean, and then through the hamlet of Roseweek, and finally back down the river home.  Another great, walk, but this is a workout walk as it involves a lot of climbs, but with great views and coves along the way.

Tip –take your swimmers and great spots for a dip are Hallane Beach, and Duporth Beach.  Porthpean is a great stop off for a refreshing drink, and Charlestown for lunch.

Another tip – should you be flagging at Charlestown then you could hop on the bus and be dropped off just outside.

DSC_6526

Chapel Point & Colana Beach

Number 3 – Starting off as walking 3, and then continuing on the SWCP to Gorran Haven, via Portmellon, Chapel Point (gorgeous) & Colana Beach.  There is a circular route back via The Barley Sheaf, Gorran Church town through a lovely valley in to Portmellon, or you can catch the Gorran Bus back. to camp.

ferryNumber 4 – This can be car free, by either walking or busing to Mevagissey. Our guests have done a combination and a lot have borrowed one of our walking books for this walk. Catch the Ferry to Meva to Fowey Ferry, then hop on as a foot passenger to Boddinick and follow signs for the famous Hall Walk.  Our walking books all add an extension on to the SWCP taking in Lantic Bay (gorgeous). The walk finishes at Polruan and The Luggar Inn is highly recommended for food, especially fish. Cross back over to Fowey on the Polruan ferry and then either bus, or ferry back to Mevagissey. Fabulous day walk, and fantastic views.  Some of our guests got to see the huge Cruiser Liner in Fowey at the start of this month.  There is never any shortage of boats to look at.

Other highly recommended “doing” days:-

1. Heligan Gardens, of course.  At the moment it is great if you can get tickets and combine the gardens, with Kneehigh Theatre, with a pre-theatre Bar and BBQ.  Bring a torch as you can walk there and back on the Trail. This show is getting extremely good reviews by all.

2. Kayaking on the Fowey Estuary to the gorgeous Golant.  This is not as strenuous as kayaking on the open sea, but don’t be fooled!! All guests who have done this have loved it.  We have the full programme of river expeditions in our office, and booking numbers, so go on you know you want to………….

image

Chris from Aquila. Actual pictures not being accepted at present!!!

3. Camp Daddy organised our first adult only Meadows eCampsite xcursion this month.  This was an early evening and very successful mackerel fishing trip.  The fishermen and fisherwomen thought positively as all BBQs were out on hire by pre-order that night.  Thank you to Chris from Aquila as our guests thoroughly enjoyed the fishing and the fish supper.  We had our fish in a red thai fish curry which was delicious.

4. Eden Project, and with the annual pass you can do it in two sessions.  Tip – get there for opening time, and get out by lunchtime!

5. Regattas – we have already had Charlestown’s Regatta, and it is currently Falmouth Regatta Week, but there is still Fowey Regatta to be enjoyed.

Pictures – here are some taken over the past few weeks.S7000376S7000368S7000393

ooooops, I appear to have a picture uploading issue.  At present new pictures are not being accepted, which is such a shame :(. Will speak to the technical department, and try again later.

Bunting update – a new bunting queen, and a very good one has been found.  Laura came to stay with us and I particularly admired her homemade bunting, and home made windbreaks.  We now have a good selection in our little shop, although it is selling fast.  There is camping bunting, and campervan bunting, and nautical bunting, amongst others.  The first batch sold out quicker than our Roskilly Salt Caramel Fudge, which is to the bunting Queen’s credit.

We love seeing all the bunting and other decorations including flags and fairy lights on the campsite.  All the decorations and fires burning in the evenings make the campsite what it is.  Our guests make a real effort, and all this enhances our campsite, so thank you for joining in!!

Foodie Events – our guests are all loving the food on offer here at The Meadows. Pizzas, fish and chips, and gourmet burgers are all well received.  Anna’s cocktails are also very popular indeed, as well as the good Old Rosie Cider, which I steer well clear of with my early starts.

Of course, we also have some excellent eating places near by.  The Polgooth Inn, and The Kingswood remain our guests favourites, and if you don’t mind a drive then Sams on the Beach and the Salamander (busable) are also extremely popular.

IMG_6785Bookings – if you are planning a late summer holiday, to tie in with our Indian Summer, then we do still have a little bit of space, although not much.  For hook ups, then except for our casual pitches, we are full until the middle of September.  For “proper camping” (none electric), we are full until around the 7th of September.  In very good weather times, we do offer some late availability, but this is usually taken by those calling a day or so before hand, or just turning up.

We are an adult only campsite, close to Mevagissey, Pentewan and Heligan Gardens.  We are a great campsite for those who like walking and cycling in the day, and campfires, relaxing, and food in the evenings.  All well behaved dogs (and other pets) are welcome.

Walkers & Cyclists – just a reminder that you don’t need to advance book and you can just turn up.  We will always find you a spot, and the pitch price is discounted by 25%.

News from Camp Dog Harvey – there has been a lot of temptations in my office this season, but so far I have managed to resist. I did also start to flag a little in July, but revived myself with my very short back and sides.  There has been some lovely visitors to the campsite, and Wink (the one eyed pug) was one of my favourites. I was also very pleased to see the return of the trio of cavaliers who stayed last year.  As well as dog, cat, parrot and tortoise visitors there has been lots of wildlife spotting on the campsite.  We have had a family of hedgehogs, barn owl, very large slow worm, and so many different birds, moths and even baby bats.  One of our guests was lucky enough to watch a barn owl flying over the site, as most guests only hear them.

Finally ……………..Well, for those whose holiday has been enjoyed, thank you very much indeed for choosing to stay at The Meadows.  Thank you also so much for all the lovely reviews, message and pictures that you have taken the time and trouble to post/send.  These are great for newbies thinking of booking to stay with us.  For those who have their holiday still to look forward to, we shall see you all very soon.

Lynn (on behalf of The Meadows team of 3)

 

 

 

 

 

Local delights………

Posted on May 18, 2015 by Comments Off on Local delights………

2013 - the meadows no22As lots of you are asking, this is just to give you an idea of local delights on offer here for the season.  Nothing is set in stone, and of course people have other long standing commitments so will miss the odd night or two.  We are very sorry if it is bad timing, for you. If you don’t get to sample everything, we hope you get to try at least one!!

Anna’s cocktail & cider van – Saturday was the trial run for Anna. Whilst expecting just to be serving cocktails to John & I, andS7000290 her hubby, instead Anna did a roaring trade.  There was a fab atmosphere with lots of campers chilling on the bean bags which were so comfy.  The Mojitos, Tom Collins, Sea Breezes, and Dark and Stormy cocktails went down a treat.  Anna will be here for bank holiday on the Saturday and on many more nights throughout the season.

Kernow Forno Subject to them getting the staff, we hope to see pizzas being cooked up on this bank holiday Saturday evening to accompany the cocktails.  This will be confirmed as soon as possible and I will update the blog. Tuesday will once again be our regular pizza evening, and Kernow Forno will be cooking up between about 5.30pm and 8pm.  Start date to be confirmed, but it should be June.

KERNOW FORNO – pizzas now confirmed for this Bank holiday Saturday and serving between 5.30pm & 7.30pm. 

The Atlantic Fryer  new for 2015, and we expect to be very popular Fish and Chips on a Monday.  The reviews are fabulous for Ross and his team, and just like wood fired pizzas who does not like fish and chips.  Beef dripping, local fish…………… ooh my mouth is watering already. First night is 1 June.

and for dessert……………….. 

Our freezer is very well stocked up with the scrumptious and very Cornish Roskillys Ice Cream

Other Meadows News

Well, we cannot say we have had a slow start to the season, and for the majority we have been fully booked, even with mixed weather.  Our returning guests are enjoying seeing the changes we have made and the general development of the campsite, with the new flowers & plants, pitch signs and our new camper van pitches.S7000293

One of our returning guests even turned up with a gift for us of a new hand made and hand painted reception sign, which we love.

Well, we are all ready for a busy bank holiday weekend, and fingers crossed for lots of sunshine.  We are sure whatever the weather it will be lots of fun and our campers will be happy ones.

Bookings

For late availability (the 14 days ahead) you are best to give us a call to see what we have.  Also if you are now looking for June, July or  August, give us a call and we can get the diary up and look what gaps we have here and there, as there are not many. For those who don’t know we are an adults only campsite close to Pentewan and Mevagissey, South Cornwall. We are very well placed for visiting The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Eden and for walking the SWCP and cycling the Coast to Clay Trail.  We are also a dog friendly, and indeed generally friendly campsite, with a nice relaxed atmosphere on site.

Our Caravans Lottie and Mabel – they have their own calendar, and so if you are thinking of a stay check our their page and debs pictures lottie etc 114then get in touch.  The girls are very popular and their first guests of the season have all had a great time, bbqing on the deck and then getting cosy.

Lynn

 

 

It is all in the planning………….

Posted on May 8, 2015 by Comments Off on It is all in the planning………….
DSC_6544

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.

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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.

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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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bunting, butterflies and fifty shades of green…….

Posted on May 1, 2015 by Comments Off on Bunting, butterflies and fifty shades of green…….

IMG_6785Well, we are now in to day two of our third season, and the fun has already begun.  For our first evening our guests enjoyed fire pits and bbqs, with campers making the most of the evening sunshine.

Our guests were so keen they were waiting outside the gates before they were open.  At that point, we were still up a ladder doing the most important job that always gets left until the last minute – bunting!

We cannot be more pleased with how the campsite looks.   As guests who have stayed with us previously will know, we have had a lot to do since arriving here three years ago.  The last two winters, we have concentrated on major and mucky site work, and so we have always been disturbing what was already there, to get to where we are now.

This year, we have been concentrating more on general maintenance, and there is always a lot of that, wood, and  general beautifying of the site.

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Here are just a few pictures taken a couple of days before opening – prior to bunting and butterflies!S7000260S7000257

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The new Edition is out, and what a fab book.  There is a lovely new cool campsite in Cornwall featuring in it on page 34.  For anyone who tours this is a great book to have on board.  We keep a copy for our touring guests in our deck reading, and it has been used lots in the past.

News from Camp Dog Harvey

Fat dog slim I love it when we open the gates, as there is always so much going on.  It is just so exciting for the first few weeks, that I give up my position on the back of the settee and am usually found on the deck or in the office.  My first guests are all enjoying themselves, and we have a party of 3 dogs who yesterday enjoyed my favourite circular Mevagissey walk.

Other Meadows news

This weekend does not look like a weekend of sunbathing on the beach, and so here are our spring suggestions for enjoying this part of Cornwall:-

DSC_65441. Time it in between any rain showers and walk in to Mevagissey on the Pentewan Trail for a good old mooch around the harbour, followed by fish and chips at either The Fountain, or The Sharksfin.  Options for the return journey back are on two feet the other way via SWCP, the good old bus, or the quicker walking route of back the way you went!

S70001982. Head out to Caerhays and Portholland and check out the film set, as it won’t be there for too much longer.

3.  The most popular place on a wet day, and so expect to share with lots of others is Eden.  Better in my view to visit on a sunshine and showers day as there is lots inside, and also lots outside too.  The food is great there to.  You might be tempted to purchase tickets for one of the fab Eden Sessions acts and make a return journey to Cornwall in early summer as there are some fab acts lined up.

4. Be prepared in case it should rain, but head off anyway for a stunning spring walk on the SWCP to Charlestown, and if you have been watching Poldark (has any one not) then the harbour will look very familiar.  There are some lovely eating places, little beaches, and caves and there is a shorter route back as this is a good walk. The SWCP is a mass of wild garlic, pink campion, primroses and cow parsley.

This weekend we should see our fair share of sunshine too this bank holiday, and the extended forecast is looking good too.

Bookings

Well they are coming in thick and fast, and we cannot believe how many people are looking for “just for grown ups”. If you have not IMG_7013stayed with us before, then we are an adults only campsite, and dog and other pet friendly. We are a campsite close to Mevagissey and Charlestown, and we love campfires and bunting.  You can book by email or telephone 01726 844383. If you like walking and/or cycling and then we are an ideal site.

Hi di hi and ho di ho from The Meadows Team – Lynn, John and Camp Dog Harvey x

 

The Fal River…………

Posted on April 24, 2015 by Comments Off on The Fal River…………

Well, we are almost all ready for inspection, and we think it is the best The Meadows has ever looked.

Our pitch signs are all in place, the wheelbarrows have been painted, shade sails up on Lottie and Mabel, and even the plants are springing in to action.  The S7000233mower has had a service and the blades are nice and sharp, and so we should have some great green stripes for Thursday when the gates open.

This years secluded pitches have been strimmed out in the wildflower meadow, but it is not quite wild yet, but it is growing by the day.  Our combined, office and shop has been painted and spring cleaned, and the communal deck is looking very colourful.

At this time of the year, we get visits from local representatives providing us with lots of information for our guests during their stay.  One particular guide caught my eye this week, and that was the updated Fal River Guide.  A good way to explore is to purchase a Fal Mussel Card, and experience some of the many ferry trips, including the chain ferry, and it also covers some buses, and even a train.  The 3 day pass for £28 seems very good value indeed as there are 7 ferries.

My favourite bits of the fal river

1. Falmouth (great foodie place), with umpteen places to eat – crossing over by ferry of course to either St Mawes, or Flushing for a meander.

2. St Just in Roseland Church – just beautiful, and lovely creekside walking.image

3. Mylor Harbour – coffee at The Mylor Cafe and watching the boaty goings on.

4. A crossing on the King Harry Ferry (this is the chain ferry) to explore  the gardens of Trelissick surrounded by water on three sides.

Caerhays5. I struggle to pick a favourite beach as there are just so many gorgeous ones.  Two of my favourites are Caerhays, and Pendower beaches.

6. As for pubs, there are again so many great ones to choose from, but on a sunny day it has to be The Pandora Inn, and lunch on the pontoon at Restronguet, and, we would walk there from Mylor as parking is a nightmare! Second is the Roseland Inn at Philleigh which is on the way to the King Harry Ferry.

The birds at the meadows are busier than we are, and there is a lot of “tweeting” going on. There has been pied wagtails making a nest on the Dexta tractor, 12 Mallard ducklings hanging around the stream with mother duck, and baby woodpeckers feeding daily on the fat balls.  The kingfisher has also been in residence, and we know buzzards are nesting down in the wooded area.  As for “our girls” they are still on their down time, and so Camp Dog has lined up all the empty egg boxes and had a word with them.

Fish & Chips –  it is looking like fish and chips Mondays is a goer, and so we are very pleased indeed.  This will be courtesy of The Atlantic Fryer coming over from Portscatho.

Breakfasts – sadly breakfast baguettes will not be on offer this season.  Camp Dog Harvey has turned vegetarian and so is refusing to be subjected to the smells of bacon and sausage. The other reason is due to ever changing regulations, and our difficulty in keeping up with these without having a stand alone kitchen which is not currently an option for us.  We will still be offering tea and coffee on the deck during our office hours, and we encourage you to byo breakfast on to the deck and enjoy the lovely morning sunshine, and wi fi of course!

Cocktails and Cider – we could not take away breakfasts, without offering something else.  This is happening and will be on a pop up basis, but either regular evenings and we are just firming up the details.  This will be hosted by a very nice local lady called Anna.

News from Camp Dog Harvey 

Nothing to report from the back of the settee at present.  Looking forward to getting back to my Head of Security duties next week, and will be making the most of my last weekend off duty.

Bookings – we have a little bit of availability still for June, July and August and good availability for September and most of May.  However, we have been IMG_7102warned to stand by the phone once the new Cool Camping Bible is issued at the beginning of May.  If you want to book you can contact us by email here, or telephone 01726 844383.  If you have just dissevered us, then we are an adults only campsite in South Cornwall close to Mevagissey.  If you are visiting the gardens of Heligan and Eden, or walking the SWCP then we are a good base.  We are a natural site, and a little bit quirky, and we are dog friendly.

 

Camp Dog Harvey walking off all those summer treats

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

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

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

 

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

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Gorgeous Mevagissey

Pont Pill (Hall Walk)

Pont Pill (Hall Walk)

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

Lantic Bay, near Fowey

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

 

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Roseland Peninsula

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

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

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Luxulyan Valley

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

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

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Deer “up country”

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

General Meadows News

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

Kernowforno

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

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What a good idea

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

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

Lynn on behalf of The Meadows Team

 

 

 

Dogs just love camping, and the great outdoors

Posted on March 13, 2014 by Comments Off on Dogs just love camping, and the great outdoors
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Cd meeting new guests

If you are wanting company on your next camping trip, then your doggie is likely to be the most enthusiastic member of the party.

Dogs love camping for dog and people watching, and for just getting out there and exploring the area for all the new sniffs, and exciting places to be discovered.

These are our very own Camp Dog Harvey’s tips  for any pooch about to embark on its first camping trip

Out & about in the name of research

1. Gen up on the local dog friendly beaches, pubs and other attractions prior to the trip.  If you are staying with me here at The Meadows, then I have done this research for you so please check out my page.

2. If your owners snore (like one of mine does) consider taking your own dog tent with your favourite bed to ensure you get a good peaceful nights sleep.

3. Talking sleep, be sure to get lots in prior to the trip and a health check so that you are bursting with energy for all of those long walks, and swims in the sea and rivers.

4. For summer camping get a “holiday haircut” and consider treating yourself to a Cool Coat for staying cool in the hot summer months.

Head of Security doing his rounds

5. Check out the campsite’s camping etiquette prior to travel as misbehaving dogs are not popular with fellow campers, so likely to miss out on gravy bones. For any short comings, consider attending an intense dog behavioural class, or you might get on the wrong side of Head of Security (at The Meadows its me!)

6. Ensure your owners pack a good supply of your own beach towels for drying your sandy bottom.

7. Be sure to check that your collar is tagged up with a mobile telephone number, just in case your owners try to lose you ;).

8. Find room in the cool box for all your favourite meats for cooking on the BBQ. After all this is your holiday as much as theirs, and you will need lots of good food after enjoying long walks on the coastal path.

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Enjoying fat dog slim bics

9. One tip just for the lasses – if you like the idea of a holiday romance with the campsite’s camp dog, then like me working out pre-season on my six pack, you might want to go on my fat dog slim diet for a few weeks prior to your trip.

Other Meadows News

Blue Jobs – for all you men out there, who love a gossip we now have an extra dish washing sink. This means when picking the sink in the middle, if the person on the left is gossipless, then you might be luckier with the person on the right. Apparently all the top tips are learnt whilst washing up.

Land drainage –  if anyone had told me even 6 months ago I would be excited watching water flowing out of a pipe, and checking ditch levels I would never have believed it. I think the challenge the weather placed upon us only made us hardier and more determined to complete this work, even if this meant working on planks for weeks!! Now on to the beautifying stage, The Meadows is once again coming in to its own, and with the current sunshine The Meadows really is a special place.

Spottings –  we love wildlife at The Meadows. We have regulars such as woody woodpecker, a nuthatch, a resident pheasant, and tits and finches in abundance. We are also very lucky to have lots of vocal owls, and a camera dodging kingfisher, and the trout in the stream are no longer considered tiddlers.

IMG_7111Bookings – advance bookings are always most welcome for a camping/touring pitch, or to stay in one of our caravans. You can book here or telephone 01726 844383.  For any returning guests, we are sure you will really enjoy seeing the changes we have made on site.  For new guests, The Meadows is an adult only, and very dog friendly campsite in South Cornwall, near to Mevagissey, and ideally placed for Heligan (walking distance) and Eden.  We look forward to seeing you all during this season.