Posted on October 6, 2015
by Lynn
Well, we have survived another season and in so many ways (other than the weather) it was the best so far. This year we did feel a little mean expecting our guests to leave right slap bang in the middle of a fab Indian Summer. We thought we might have to tow the last ones off.
First and foremost is a big thank you from the three of us (me, Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey) for all guests who have stayed with us during this season). We think this is a special place, but it is our guests who make it come alive and help create such a relaxed, friendly atmosphere on the campsite, and which keeps people coming.
Due to the mixed bag of weather, we finished looking still very green on the campsite. Taking full advantage of the Indian Summer all pitch repairs, and reseeding has already been done. The new tractor and tools made much lighter work of the 30 ton of loam soil, as our lovely Fordson Dexta did struggle last year. The meadow has also been topped, and sadly all the bunting has been packed away until next year.
It is always nice to sit down (yes we do sometimes) and think back over the season, which always seems to fly by. There has been so many highlights, surprises, and so many lovely people, and dogs that have passed through our gates.
Biggest surprise – that our wood piles diminished so quickly! We were determined not to run out, but we did as the fire pits get more and more popular. With the extra wood brought on to the site, it would be very interesting to know actually how much wood our campers did get through keeping campfires burning.
Most memorable event (unfortunately for the wrong reason). This was the Saturday night when Mr Bee the African Grey Parrot staying with guests on the campsite escaped. Kevin and Pearl were with us for 3 months, and so I mention this as many of their neighbours met and took a shine to Mr Bee who was an extremely well behaved Parrot. There was just the odd wolf whistle here and there, and definitely no swearing. Unfortunately this tale does not have an ending, as despite hours spent looking for Mr Bee he has not been seen again since.
Top Model
Another thing that sticks in my mind is the flurry of activity around the office/shed/tourist info board, small shop when the first box of handmade dog bandanas arrived on site in August. Harvey was top model, and we had dogs of all shapes and sizes looking the part with camper vans, and all things camping., boating, spotting, flowering and just gorgeousness and fun. The group photo opportunity was just not happening.
On a similar note the effort made this year has been incredible with bunting, lights, flags, flower pots, bird feeders, butterflies, and so many enter in to the spirit of it. I had to check out for myself a recent rumour of a campsite in Cornwall that does not allow any of these things – I thought my leg was being pulled, but it is true!! Next year we are thinking of having a weekly best dressed unit competition, but this year some weeks that would have been a tough call.
Very well received – a big thank you to Simon & Sarah, Ross & Jen and of course Cocktail Anna for looking after our guests with fabulous wood fired pizzas, scrumptious fish & chips and very grown up cocktails and cider.
What happens now…………..
We get asked this quite a lot as our guests show a genuine interest in what happens when the guests close. Our guests also like to know plans for the campsite.
The first thing we did was head off to The Pandora Inn at Restronguet taking full advantage of the gorgeous sunshine for a celebratory lunch on the pontoon. We had already slipped out of the gates a few days prior to enjoy the Mevagissey circular walk, and Scallops on the harbour from The Fish Grill caravan.
Well, right at the moment, Operation Conifer Removal is in full swing. All the big conifers that start at our gate running up the lane are coming out. This is an historical problem and had to happen at some point. These will be replaced by a Cornish hedge. For our campers it just really means a better view up the valley towards the Polgooth Inn. The Cornish hedging is being done by a local chap called Tom and so he will be working here now for a good few weeks, as there is a lot of hedging to build with 50 ton of Cornish stone being delivered tomorrow.
Our holiday plans are still in discussion, but we think for the most part it will be Uk holidaying for us, which we love. Log burner, great walks, and great cosy pub are on tick list, but we think we shall do a bit of a tour.
As for the campsite itself, we have the usual maintenance works and of course wood stock replenishment, which will all be taking place over the winter and spring. There is also a desire to add another Quirky let to our two gorgeous caravans. At the moment the sticking point is what and where to put this, so watch this space.
View from my daily circuit walk
I am deserting the team tomorrow and off on a family jaunt to Spain. For this I have been on a last minute get fit campaign just really so I can eats lots of Paella and tapas. I seized the opportunity to find even more local walks and variations from the gate, especially taking in to the Heligan hill which is a great initial workout. One of my tasks for the winter is to put together some of the walks for our guests, as I am even still amazed myself at the number of fantastic off road walks there are.
News from Camp Dog
Where has everyone gone?
Thank you all for coming, and I am presently wondering where you have all gone as my garden is empty. I have been saving up all of my treats, and shall enjoy putting them in the rucksack for my walking treats over the winter months. I have just been put on a new drug by the vet for one of my conditions! My mum did smile when reading the info as one of the possible side effects is anorexia, and another is lethargy.
Bookings – we shall be doing our little review, and start taking bookings at the start of November.
Well, I shall shall save the rest of the news for my next blog which I plan to be a walking one.
Lynn on behalf of The Meadows Team
Posted on November 6, 2014
by Lynn
More wood piles required
Our last few days of the season were quiet ones, and so it got us used to the idea of being “quiet”, but it still seems strange to have the gates closed and the place to ourselves.
Making the most of the continued good weather, we have been getting stuck in to the jobs where there is a big plus sign to getting them done as soon as. The grass is growing under our feet, and we are really pleased about that. The meadow has been topped and we are making the most of Heligan’s half price plant sale and getting down to planting and further beautifying the site. We have also been “logging” as we can never have too much wood with the popularity of our fire pits, and our own love of our wood burner in the winter.
As a lot of our guests will know The Meadows Team (me, Lynn, John & Camp Dog Harvey) are very keen walkers. Some of you now know better than to ask one of us for a suggestion for a good walk, as we do sometimes get carried away wanting our guests to see as much as possible!!
Gorgeous Mevagissey
Pont Pill (Hall Walk)
The Mevagissey circular walk starting right from our gate which is about 6.5 miles is one of our favourites, and we are now very used to the good climbs. It is a great walk for stop off whether it be coffee and cake at Heligan, or at the new Cafe on the Quay at Mevagissey serving proper homemade delicious cakes. Depending on the time of day it could be fish and chips, or Cornish pasty time. We usually stop for a drink in our local pub The Ship Inn, in Pentewan before setting off on the last mile home up the trail. Polstreath beach which you pass along the way between Meva and Pentewan is lovely and quiet even in the summer as the only way down is via 200 steps!!!
Lantic Bay, near Fowey
Another of our favourite walks is the Fowey Hall Walk, with an extension to include Pencarrow Head, and Lantic Bay (dog friendly). We talked ourselves in to diverting down to the bay, and we were sooooo pleased we did. We had the beach to ourselves and the sky was blue, and it was just amazing. It is a very tricky climb down, but apart from the steepness the climb back up seems somehow easier. Lunch stop was at The Luggar Inn, Polruan and the walk has two different ferry rides along the way.
Roseland Peninsula
To go with a very good walk, we like a good lunch and have enjoyed a few lunches out as we have really been missing those. The Sharksfin at Mevagissey is excellent for fish, and I love their crab sandwich with a bowl of chips. One of our favourite areas for walking is the Roseland Peninsula. On Sunday we had a walk around St Anthony’s Head, a paddle in the sea, and a cup of tea with Thirstea the old Citreon H Van that visited us here in the summer at Town Farm. On the way home, we stopped off at the very cosy Roseland Inn at Philleigh for lunch which was lovely, and the pub was full.
One of our other favourite pub lunches is at The Pandora Inn near Mylor on the Carrick Roads. This is a beautiful area with lovely creekside walking. The walk around to the pub from Mylor is lovely with great views of the boats and fabulous waterside properties. It was a very sunny day, but the wind was a little too chilly to brave lunch sitting on the pontoon. We opted for mussels (me) and our two friends, and John had a pulled pork sandwich with spiced apple chutney. Food was all delicious, the sandwich was huge and full of pork, and another cosy pub with log fires. Both pubs highly recommended, and both dog friendly, as of course Harvey accompanied us on both occasions.
Luxulyan Valley
Our guests shady walk during the many really hot days last season as the Luxulyan Valley, known as the hidden valley. This is our mizzly walk as there is lots of tree cover, although soon to be less when all the leaves are off. This walk is beautiful whatever time of year, and great if you like walking next to water. The pub in the village itself is on our list of ones to try as we have good reports.
Whilst out and about, we have been getting inspiration for our winter work at The Meadows, and we have some good ideas. As we have now uncovered the whole of the campsite, from beneath the brambles, and completed our major work, any more changes will be smaller ones. We are just as excited about this year’s work, and this is of course phase 3 for us with our second season of learning behind us.
Deer “up country”
A few days after closing we made a trip up country to visit our families. We all had a lovely time, and enjoyed lots of walks along the River Soar, and around Bradgate Park, pub lunches, and a visit to Melton Mowbray Cattle Market. Harvey enjoyed spending times with his cousins, well most of them any way (sorry Billy).
General Meadows News
Bookings – we have now opened our diary for 2015, and have booked lots of guests in already. Always good to have a holiday to look forward to and we are certainly looking forward to ours! In case any one is wondering, yes our holiday does involve camping, walking, wine, beaches and sunshine – our winter version of a camping holiday at The Meadows! If you would like to be an early booker with us for next year then you can contact us here, or call 01726 844383. For new guests, we are a quirky smallish adult only campsite in the Pentewan Valley, South Cornwall. The Meadows is also a very dog friendly campsite. We are an ideal campsite, for those who like the gardens, particularly Heligan and Eden, and those who enjoying walking the SWCP, or cycling as we are right on the Coast to Clay Trail.
Kernowforno
We are pleased to say that Kernowforno will be here again next season cooking delicious wood fired pizzas. John will also be serving up breakfast baguettes again, although this may not be every day. We are thinking of tasty porridge for some days as we know this is popular with campers. We are also hopeful that Big Pan Parties will come again to cook up their delicious paella on site, and Sams Cocktail Van with Mojito Steve on board knows he is always very welcome here.
What a good idea
Harvey has been thinking up new ideas for his guests on four legs, whilst also getting out there finding new walks and dog friendly eating places. Harvey has also been finding life rather strange since the gates closed. He still makes his way to the french doors in the morning, but cannot understand where everyone has gone.
Hope you like the pictures, which are a bit of a mix, and I shall keep them coming over the winter as it is a good way of keeping in touch. It also answers the ? we get asked most in the summer ……… “what do you do in the winter?” :).
Lynn on behalf of The Meadows Team
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Harvey's Walking Journal,
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Walking holiday in Cornwall
Posted on January 27, 2014
by Lynn
The Meadows Team (that is me Lynn, Camp Daddy John, and Camp Dog Harvey) enjoy nothing more than a good long walk , especially in Cornwall.
Being very busy on site with our groundwork, this year we are staying in the County, but even so we will not get to do any where near all the walks we would love to do.
John and I both love the Cornish coastline (SWCP) and the lovely little bays, and fishing villages usually with a characterful and dog friendly pub for lunch. Camp Dog Harvey does love the coast path and can be encouraged in to the sea, but loves woods and chasing squirrels and pheasants.
Last weekend we had a mixed weather bag (typical Cornwall), but most of Sunday was gorgeous and sunny. We made the most of both days, and had two lovely walks.
One of the bays we came across on our walk
The first walk was one we had wanted to do for some time, as we have seen it from over the water. The walk around St Anthony’s Head had fantastic views all the way, and lots of interesting features including the lighthouse, and observation point. We extended this walk slightly parking at the NT Towan Farm car park and walking around Porth Creek. Approaching Towan Beach at the end of our walk we were lucky to see lots of seals on the beach and swimming in the sea. This was a good walk for a walk that had seen a lot of rain, as Harvey was able to take a bathe in the sea at Towan Beach, as when we got back to the car, we headed off to our lunch spot.
This walk is another one ticked off from the book that I will be selling this year in our small camp shop. 16 circular walks all close to the campsite, and we have done quite a number now. All so far have been great, with some real gems for great views and little coves.
Favouring holidaying in the UK, and never liking to intentionally leave Harvey out we use Alistair Sawday’s Pub and Inns Book as a bit of a Bible. There is nothing worse than having a less than average lunch in a characterless pub after a good few hours walking when you are ready for some really tasty local food. Last Saturday we had a gorgeous sandwich and bowl of very home made chips in the The Roseland Inn at Philleigh. A great little pub, and so warm and cosy with the fire, and bags of character and Camp Dog Harvey was made very welcome. This pub got full marks and would be a lovely pub for the summer too as there was a lovely outside seating area.
Another pub out of the book that we recently visited was The Kings Head at Ruan High Lanes which is a good one for on the way to or from Truro. This is described in the book as a pub with a heart, and I would very much agree with that. The village itself is a beauty with a Norman font, and a creek that is a haven for waders and waterfowl. John had an open ploughman’s sandwich, and I had pan friend prawns with garlic butter and we shared a portion of homemade chips . A cracking pub with a lovely dog friendly bar, and the restaurant was also extremely popular with some lovely catch of the day dishes on the menu. Another one we shall be returning to.
Gorgeous Polperro
Last Sunday was a great day for seeing Polperro, and we walked over to Talland Bay which was a very popular walk, again with lovely views back over to St Austell Bay. This place is full of character, with lovely Cornish cottages, little lanes, boats and of course a little beach and the sea. Had it not been for some very black clouds looming in the distance, we would have walked on to Looe, but we are saving that for another time. The return car journey was on the scenic route through the back villages, and over on the ferry to Fowey where we stopped for a swift pint at The Ship Inn before heading home for lamb shanks and winter veg cooked by John.
Next weekend we are planning to visit Lanhydrock as the snowdrops should be looking lovely by then. The Estate grounds look ideal for a good Sunday morning walk.
Meadows Campsite News
We never expected changing to a site “just for grown ups” to be so popular, and campers are searching out adult only campsites in Cornwall. The interest has been amazing, and we are looking forward to meeting so many new guests this season, and also to the guests of our first season returning to see the changes. So far, most of the bookings are for guests liking a few more of their creature comforts and opting for electric hookup so it seems we made the right decision adding another 4 hook ups for this season further “down field” and on the sunniest side.
Our first wood tower
Work on site is progressing, albeit it slower than we would like due to Cornwall taking conditions that would usually fall on the Lake District. On showery days, we are managing our wood. There has been a lot of chopping, splitting, stacking and building of log towers, a skill that John learnt on a Norfolk woodland management course. Our logs stores are full too – yes there has been a lot of showery days, and luckily we still have lots of wood to chop and stack. There is still a lot to do, but everything is in place, and this week looks to be much better. It is still only January, and this time last year, we had not even landed in Cornwall. I keep telling John that every day we must wake up with a PMA (positive mental attitude), and the rest is easy!!!
News from Camp Dog Harvey
CD taking in the view of Polperro
As much as I love my mum and dad, I am now counting down to the start of the season and seeing new faces. Getting rid of my rain coat, and putting on my cool coat cannot come soon enough for me. As much as I love lounging in the evening in front of the log burner, there is not much to see in the dark. I much prefer sprawling out on the deck keeping one eye out on my guests, whilst soaking in the sunshine, and the extra daylight hours.
My girls “our chucks” are still laying well, and my favourite every day dinner is a soft boiled egg and bakers.
Caerhays
I am looking quite trim at the moment and am really enjoying getting out and about exploring new places, and returning to some of my favourites. As it is only a short drive away, Caerhays seems to be a popular choice for The Meadows team when time allows for just a hour or so end of sunlight down time. There are pheasants for me, in abundance, and sand and sea to keep the other members of the team happy.
Bookings
We will be soon
For all you adults out there, looking for a traditional small quiet campsite in a lovely part of Cornwall, please do give us a try. We welcome tents (all shapes and sizes) caravans, campervans, motorhomes, converted buses, ambulances, and anything “quirky”. We are dog friendly, and great as a base for visiting the gardens of Heligan and Eden, and the gorgeous Fowey and Mevagissey. You can book by contacting us, The Meadows Campsite, Pentewan here, or by telephoning 01726 844383. If you prefer camping on a more hassle free basis, then we have our caravans available for rent on a weekly, or short break basis.
Posted in:
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Facilities At The Meadows,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
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The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Adult only campsite,
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Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
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Dog friendly walks,
Eden Project,
Fowey,
heligan gardens,
meadows campsite,
pentewan,
Walking around St Austell
Posted on September 24, 2013
by Lynn
Driving in to Mevagissey today, I heard on the radio that we are in for a fabulous October! The Indian Summer was apparently delayed due to the good old jet stream, but is now en route to Cornwall.
Today’s weather news got me thinking, that really Autumn is such a good time to get away, and set yourselves up for the winter months. With all the mod cons now in the caravans, motorhomes and tents for keeping warm on chilly evenings, our hot showers & breakfast delivered to your unit, there really is no excuse not to take time out and visit us here at The Meadows Campsite near to Mevagissey.
I am going to try and encourage and tempt you now to get away, by highlighting some of the simple pleasures of holidaying in Autumn, close to Mevagissey, Charlestown, Fowey and St Austell, South Cornwall.
Long walks on the nearly deserted Cornish Beaches.
These walks are best enjoyed with your pooch, and a good way of blowing away the cob webs, and enjoying the sun lying low in the sky.
Check out Camp Dog Harvey’s page for some suggestions, or if you are without a pooch then Pentewan Sands beach is a good beach to start with. A must for me is to take your coffee from the Gorran Haven Cafe in a “proper” mug and sit and drink it on the beach, watching the waves. This would then be followed by a good walk over the cliffs to the very deserted long sandy Vault Beach.
At the end of the returning leg of the Gorran – Vault walk, you could stop off and enjoy lunch in the lovely Barleysheaf Pub just up the road at Gorran Church Town.
For some more suggestions for walks in the area check out the South West Coast Path website, and in particular the Autumn Ambles for South East Cornwall.
For some fabulous pictures of the walk from The Meadows to Charlestown, and for just some fab pictures generally, check out www.skoobyblue.blogspot.com. Skooby Blue and Simon stayed with us here for a few nights this month. Prior and post Simon’s visit, we had been enjoying the pictures of his trip around Cornwall, on twitter, as he is a fantastic photographer. We felt honoured when Simon did a photo blog on The Meadows, so please take a look and see if you agree.
A cosy pub lunch
With an “r” in the month, Autumn is the best time to feast on a lunch of mussels and chips.
We can show you the route to walk from The Meadows to the lovely Polgooth Inn along bridleways and foothpaths with gorgeous views of the bays. So far on our mussel test, the Polgooth’s come out top. If the day is an autumnal one, then you can cosy up in front of the log fire. However, with the promise of an Indian summer , you could be sitting in the Polgooth’s garden basking in the midday sunshine.
For Sunday lunch, the best we have had so far is at The Crown Inn, St Ewe. This is a traditional inn, and the Sunday lunch is just like your mum would cook, and the pub is dog friendly.
Visiting the Lost Gardens of Heligan or Eden
Due to Cornwall’s milder climate, the gardens are fabulous to visit in the Autumn months. You can expect to see lots of the more exotic plants, and lots of spectacular autumn colours. Heligan also have foraging events, and Eden have a beer festival taking place in October. Gardens and beer, surely go together!
Whilst at Heligan Gardens, take a mooch around Lobbs Farm Shop and pick up some delicious treats for dinner, or supper.
Whilst being completely biased of course, all of the above, are best finished off with a night at The Meadows. You can snuggle up in your tent or caravan, or indeed our Vintage Caravan Lottie. Here you can watch the night drawing in, and listen to the owls tooting, whilst playing a game of cards or scrabble. Electric hook up is a near must, or for the very hardy pack your crocheted blankets to keep out the evening chill. Our favourite autumn warming drink is the South Devon Chilli Farm’s Chilli Hot Chocolate drink.
If you are more than a little bit tempted, hold off putting your tent away for the year, or caravan in to storage. You don’t need to book in advance, but you can if you want to. We are happy for you to arrive just as the Indian Summer makes the promised appearance and pick your sunny spot on site. Should you wish to book, or let us know you are on your way you can do so here, or by calling 01726 844383/07712599745.
News from Camp Dog
37 days left until I am off official duties, and can enjoy all of the above, and more!! Yes, I am now on countdown :), but will continue working very hard until the end of season to keep my guests happy, and well looked after.
Mabel – our new, but old caravan is still in Leicestershire, where my granny and grandpa are enjoying sitting in her having their afternoon pot of tea. Mabel will be arriving on site in October and we are all really excited.
For all your new four legged visitors planning on making your first visit to The Meadows, I can show you dog friendly pubs where they let you sit by the fire and the best dog friendly beaches. Here at The Meadows we are a very dog friendly, and generally friendly and relaxed campsite, in a walkers and cyclists haven.
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Harvey's Walking Journal,
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Tags:
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Walking around St Austell
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:
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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,
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camping site near Eden project,
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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 April 13, 2013
by Lynn
CD in boots
It is very full on at the moment here at The Meadows with our site renovation work. However, life is never too busy to put your boots on (even me) and get out for a walk. Just set the alarm clock an hour earlier. It is now light until at least seven in the evening, so two walks minimum a day is a good starting point, and then I work at my best ;).
PLEASE – no laughing at my boots!! These are not a fashion statement. As you may all know, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the vet’s best friends, and hopefully although I have been better in this warmer climate these will help my sensitive pads. These boots come highly recommended by dogs, who are proper working dogs, huskies, and mountain dogs and the like, so they must be good for Camp Dog.
We are so lucky here being situate in the Pentewan Valley, as we have so many walks on the doorstep. So whilst no long jaunts as The Meadows Team (that is me Camp Dog, John & Lynn) have been very busy preparing for opening our gates on 1 May, I have done lots of short local ones.
As we are dog friendly here, and hope to see lots of you four legged friends this season, I want to tempt you with what is waiting for you here and what a beautiful part of Cornwall this is. Camping and caravanning on the edge of Pentewan village, and close to Mevaggisey is great for everyone, and there is so much to see and do.
Turning directly right out of our gate, you are straight on to the Pentewan Valley Trail and heading off I will call it a gentle climb up out of the valley with woodland, and lovely views over the countryside. After about 20 minutes, you will reach a sign, and you can either take a left and head off to Mevagissey for a stroll about this gorgeous harbour town with lovely shops, and eating places, a lot being dog friendly. Alternatively you can carry straight on to The Lost Gardens of Heligan. Dogs are welcome here, and there is also Lobbs Farm Shop and cafe where you can just enjoy coffee and cake, though I do think as it is a shop dogs must sit outside, and catch the crumbs.
At the moment for my morning walk, I join the Pentewan Valley Trail on the other side of the road. Crossing the bridge, I decide depending on my mood of the day, whether to take a left or a right. Both directions take you by the pretty Little Winnick River. There are lots of opportunities and marked tracks to divert off in to the woods which I often do, and going round in a big circle back on to the trail crossing lots of bridges made out of tree trunks on the way. The Kings Woods are also very good for mountain bikes, though I prefer exploring them on four legs.
The walks above, are my normal day to day walks, and I do appreciate how lucky I am to have such fabulous walks right on the doorstep.
Pentewan Sands
At the weekend, we often walk down in to the Pentewan Village down the trail, and to the Pentewan Sands beach. Pentewan is a very pretty village, and the walks out of the village on to the coastal path make great walks though be prepared for some ups and downs, as of course you are in Cornwall. Indeed without the climbs, you would not have the fabulous views.
I hope the above has made you want to call up my owners and book a stay this season at The Meadows Touring small and dog friendly park, and you can try these walks for yourselves. You can also be “green” by leaving the car on the park, and also your owners will not have to worry about getting a parking space!!!! You can enquire here, or telephone my owners Lynn & John 01726 844383/07712599745. We all look forward to seeing you this season so you can explore this part of Cornwall in the UK, and you can may be find some doorstep walks that you can share with me, and that I have not yet discovered.
Posted in:
Harvey's Walking Journal,
New owners at The Meadows,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
Walking around St Austell
Tags:
Caravan Park St Austell,
Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
Dog friendly walks,
Pentewan Valley,
Renovations at The Meadows,
The Lost Gardens of Heligan,
The Meadows Camping & Caravan Site,
Walking around St Austell
Posted on March 16, 2013
by Lynn
Camp Dog Harvey
I must be doing well in my role of Camp Dog/Security as I have been given yet another day off.
My owners have been wanting to walk around the beautiful Caerhays Estate since before they collected the keys, and today that is where we went.
Parking is great, right on the beach, and so we had a flask of coffee with a wonderful view of the beach and sea, and lots of four legged friends before setting off.
The walk started with a fairly steep climb, out of Caerhays, and as we set off we had views of the castle. Oops, we realised the map had been left at home, though this was not a problem, as we joined the main South West Coastal path. The coast path is always very well marked, and clear to follow. I like the rugged coastal path, and so do my owners. We passed some lovely coastal Caerhays Estate cottages, and lovely coves and I even got to do some rock climbing on the beach.
We followed the path all the way around to the gorgeous fishing village of Portloe. We had a meander around Portloe and here there is the well known Lugger Hotel. It also seems that lobster and crab are caught from Portloe, and my owners noticed that crab sandwiches were being served at the hotel. If I was not with my owners that day, they may have gone there for a pint & a crab sarnie 🙂 However, the Lugger Hotel is not dog friendly, and so we went to the local pub which was fine with me. I should have guessed the pub would be called “The Ship”, and was Dog Friendly. Here my owners had a carvery which was what was being served, as it was Sunday. Roast chicken, was not an option, but I was more than ok with the bits of beef and pork that I got in return for a hard week’s work.
As the map had been forgotten, then a circular walk was not really an option. The view going the other direction is always different, as is the tide. This really is lovely part of the coastal path, and the views out of Portloe were tremendous with the fishing boats and pretty coastal cottages. Caerhays Estate is quite extensive and very well looked after. The magnolias were a sight to see when we descended down the little lane back to the car park at the end of our walk.
Caerhays beach is very dog friendly, all year round and also very popular. I had a good run on the beach to finish off my Sunday outing, and then it was back in the car to return home to The Meadows for a nap, after a fine walk.
This walk gets a score of 9 out of 10. That is a very good score for a non circular walk, and is so because it was a beautiful walk. Caerhays is very easy to get too, and is only about 10 minutes in the car from The Meadows, and is well worth the short drive. You could easy spend the day there as the gardens are a delight at all times of the year – www.caerhays.co.uk
My owners have the map of this walk, back at Camp ;), and will be happy to show you the route, although it is a very easy one to follow.
Please do come and stay with us at The Meadows small, dog friendly touring park this season and enjoy this wonderful part of Southern Cornwall. We cater for caravans, motor homes and tents of all shapes and sizes, and there is lots to do particularly for walkers and cyclists. You might prefer to book in advance and if so you can enquire here or telephone Lynn or John on 01726 844383/07712599745. Alternatively, you can just turn up and we will endeavour to find you a pitch wherever possible.
Posted on March 5, 2013
by Lynn
I, Harvey/Camp Dog am still with my owners in our temporary abode awaiting the installation of our kitchen and bathroom.
We are staying in the lovely harbour town of Mevagissey and so have lots of lovely walks direct from the door. Our retreat is at the top of a very steep hill and so each walk finishes with a very big climb.
This walk was taken on a Sunday (our day off) and we joined the south west coast path in the harbour. We followed this passing through the picturesque Port Mellon, and the Rising Sun Inn although no pit stop there this time was it was before opening hours. My owners are early risers!!
We then followed the coastal path round with a few climbs and descents down to Gorran Haven and past the chapel of St Just. I had a run here on the beach which was very quiet and the sun was shining. Gorran Haven is a very beautiful fishing village and I shall go back in the summer when the sea is a little warmer.
As it was nearly lunchtime we headed off through the lanes and along the “school path” up to Gorran Church Town, and the Barley Sheaf Pub for a snack. This is a very smart pub with good beer, treats for us dogs, and a nice log fire. The pub has lots of events of a music type and is very welcoming.
My owners seemed to enjoy their lunch of homemade soup, and smoked mackerel pâté.
We went a different way for part of the return over some grassy fields with one very steep descent. We then rejoined the coastal path and back in to Mevagissey, and the final climb back home.
There were lovely views of Gorran, Mevagissey, and Port Mellon along the way.
A good walk which I give a score of 8 out of 10. The walk has to be a full circular walk with no doubling up on the way back to get full marks.
My owners would be delighted to show you this walk on a map. It would be possible to start this walk from The Meadows if you were feeling energetic. You would then pick up the coast path in Pentewan village.
Please do come and stay with us at The Meadows caravan and camping park this summer. We cater for caravans, motor homes tents of all sizes. You might prefer to book in advance and if so you can enquire here or telephone Lynn or John – 01726 844383/07712599745. Alternatively just turn up and we will always find you a pitch if we can.
Posted in:
Dog Friendly Pubs,
Eating Out,
Harvey's Walking Journal,
Mevagissey,
St Austell,
Walking around St Austell,
Walking Maps
Tags:
Camping and Caravanning Mevagissey,
Dog friendly camp and caravan site in Cornwall,
Dog friendly pubs,
Dog friendly walks,
Eating out in Cornwall,
Walking around St Austell,
Walking holiday in Cornwall
Posted on March 1, 2013
by Lynn
Harvey – Camp Dog
Camp dog has been given a day off from his main role………………..
I (Camp Dog Harvey) am making the most of a Sunday off and enjoying a walk with my owners.
In this beautiful part of Cornwall, we are spoilt for choice with walks, and we are all now getting used to the climbs once you get out of the sheltered Pentewan Valley setting.
For today’s walk, we set off from our new home The Meadows down the picturesque Pentewan Trail in to the Pentewan village itself. As it was a good sunny still day, we joined the well marked south west coastal path. The views out to sea were fabulous and also the sight of the fishing boats out there. Provided I stay away from the cliff edge, coastal path walking is lead free for me and so I am happy.
The path is quite up and down in place, but with great views all the way to Mevagissey. It seems that there are seem good spots for fishing en route.
We arrived in Mevagissey in time for a lunchtime drink at The Ship Inn. Why are there so many pubs with the same name?! There is a new resident landlord and landlady and so my owners were sharing their new and exciting business stories with each other whilst I had a nap.
It was fairly quiet in Mevagissey itself and so we had a meander down the little lanes before heading back along the Pentewan Trail back to the Pentewan Valley. This was an easier walk, well signed, and some lead free.
I give this walk 8 out of 10. If there had been any pheasants or squirrels to chase on the route back it would have been 9.
My owners have lots of walking books and maps and will be happy to show you this, and other circular walks in this very picturesque area of Cornwall, UK. As I always join them on their walks then the pub lunch stop offs are Dog Friendly.
We hope you will come and stay with us at The Meadows touring park in the Pentewan Valley. Our friendly site welcomes motor homes, touring caravans and tents. We are well situated to enjoy Cornwall, and within walking distance of The Lost Gardens of Heligan. Whilst advance booking is recommended we do cater for tourers turning up on spec and will always try and find a pitch for you if we can. Please enquire here, or telephone Lynn or John on 01726 844383.”