Author: gloversure

Amazing events for your 2018 Cornwall diary

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to fantastic events to choose from in Cornwall throughout 2018.

We’ve hand-picked our favourites to add to your calendars. How many will you visit?

Discover unbeatable savings and unforgettable experiences with Beach Retreats’ exclusive special offers.

Porthleven 20 – 22 April

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2018, this is a festival we highly recommend for your foodie diary. Bringing around 30,000 people together in and around the stunning harbour in Porthleven, the event brings national and international chefs into the theatre, food stalls, street food, music day and night and entertainment for all. What are you waiting for? See you there…

Discover our Porthleven holiday properties.

St Ives Food & Drink Festival

St Ives 11 – 13 May

Get yourselves down to Porthminster beach in St Ives for another foodie treat. Attracting over 12,000 visitors each year, this festival brings you plenty of Cornish food stalls, Celebrity Chef Demos, pop up BBQs, music and more. Whilst you are in St Ives, we recommend a coastal walk along its white sand beaches.

The Great Estate

Redruth 1 – 3 June

A new event for 2017 and now returning for its second year, The Great Estate is a festival for all the family. Expect major international headline acts, a mix of comedy, theatre, music and the arts, all within the beautiful grounds of Scorrier Estate. Look out for their vintage fairground, woodland silent disco, secret gin garden, burlesque sessions, classical corner and the Swamp Circus. Buy tickets.

Royal Cornwall Show

Wadebridge 7 – 9 June

On its 223rd year and one of Cornwall’s biggest events, the Royal Cornwall Show hosts an exciting schedule of events exhibits, competitions, shopping, family activities and more. As an agricultural show, visitors can expect plenty of animal shows including the popular annual dog show, as well as a fascinating glimpse into rural life. Apart from the livestock judging, there is the famous flower tent, show jumping and a fast and furious inter-hunt relay.

Rock Oyster Festival

Rock 6 – 7 July

Located right on the famous Camel trail, making it one of the few festivals that can be easily accessed on foot or by bike, the Rock Oyster Festival is a haven for seafood lovers. This midsummer celebration of food, music and art, invites visitors to eat their way through thousands of Cornish oysters, as well as listen to live music, watch circus acts and enjoy children’s entertainment, alternative performing arts and a shopping bazaar. What more could you ask for?

Lusty Glaze Sundowner Sessions

Newquay, Various dates

Awarded the No.1 spot by The Times for ‘Most picturesque live music venue in the UK’ Lusty Glaze hosts various live acts throughout the summer months with in an incredible setting. Imagine a beer in hand, sand beneath your toes and a stunning sunset whilst watching your favourite band? Lusty Glaze welcomes Morcheeba 22nd July, a British band from the 90s, with other acts to be announced shortly.

Port Eliot Festival

St German 26 – 29 July

Port Eliot is a festival unlike any other. Whether you’re swimming in the estuary, picnicking under a 300-year-old tree, rocking out at the Park Stage, canoeing on the river, catching an intimate gig in the church, watching a cooking demo in the Big Kitchen or dancing in the Boogie Round. Make sure you save some time to look around Port Eliot House, a Grade I listed house over 1,000 years old. Will you walk up all 11 stair cases?

Boardmasters Surf & Music Festival

Newquay & Watergate Bay 8 – 13 August

The famous Boardmasters Festival is back offering a fantastic music and surf festival over two locations. Head to Fistral beach in Newquay for the main surfing and skate competitions, along with food stalls and music, or head to Watergate Bay where this year’s top acts include Craig David, The Chemical Brothers and Annie Mac.

Following the success of 2017, The Financial Times said Boardmasters is “fast becoming one of the UK’s most enticing summer music festivals”, while NME described the festival as “a perfect weekend mix of sun, surf and music in Cornwall.” See the full line-up and purchase tickets on the Boardmasters website.

British Stand Up Paddle Boarding National Championships

Watergate Bay 13 – 14 October

Celebrating its 6th year, the British Stand up Boarding Association National Championships returns to the bay. Over the course of two days there will be three main competitions, Men’s Open, Women’s Open, & Junior Under 16s. Wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate from The Beach Hut and enjoy the action. Stand by for a fiery autumn sunset.

Padstow Christmas Festival

Padstow 6 – 9 December

See this Cornish fishing village come alive with celebrity chefs, culinary delights and festive fun. The free-to-attend spectacle has grown into one of the largest food festivals in Cornwall, with 45,000 visitors expected across the four days. This year sees 65 separate cookery demonstrations, workshops and masterclasses happening across two stages, with culinary names from Rick Stien, Paul Ainsworth, Nathan Outlaw and James Martin confirmed to attend.

But it’s not all about the food.

The popular Christmas market will also be open from midday Thursday with stalls featuring arts, crafts, food and drink producers from across the south west. Padstow’s shops and galleries will be open for extended hours offering special discounts throughout the four days, plus there will be a fantastic fireworks display.

Do you know any other events that should be added to our 2018 calendar? Let us know by joining the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Want a relaxing holiday in Cornwall? Check out our favourite spas and saunas for a truly relaxing getaway

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5 Terrific Terraces

5 houses that boast stunning terraces as well as jaw-dropping coastal views.

We choose 5 houses that will help you make the most of your holiday home with alfresco dining, sun seeking, relaxing and more. How will you spend time on your holiday terrace?

Trethvor, Fistral

First up is Trethvor (meaning seaside in Cornish), a sleek coastal pad offering sweeping sea views across Fistral bay. What is it we love best about Trethvor? You guessed it, the stunning private ‘wrap-around’ terrace and its stunning 180 degree views of the coast. Look out to Trevose headland and lighthouse, out to sea and inland over Newquay; perfect for both alfresco dining.

Trethvor is one of the last buildings on the Pentire headland, with coastal walks and inspiring sea views on your doorstep. Throughout the summer, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins jumping in the bay.

Book your stay at Trethvor with Beach Retreats.

The Penthouse at Coast, Porth

Next up is The Penthouse at Coast, where you couldn’t get closer to the beach even if you tried. Situated where the land meets the sea, guests can walk through gardens and a gate, directly onto the family-friendly Porth beach. There are no roads to cross, just a wide expanse of golden sand on your doorstep.

This large private terrace comes with spectacular sea views and the chance to dine outside whilst the sun sets on the horizon.

Book your stay at The Penthouse at Coast with Beach Retreats.

Panorama, Mawgan Porth

Perfectly located just 800 metres from Mawgan Porth beach, Panorama fuses haute design and stylish interiors with beach inspired features to create a majestic luxury bolthole for families, small groups and design-aficionados.

Tucked away on a private road, the stunning terrace is the perfect setting for family and friends to sit back and relax whilst enjoying a Cornish sunset like no other.

Book your stay at Panorama with Beach Retreats.

Panorama Mawgan Porth

No 1 The Beach, Porthtowan

With a beach just 10 metres away, No 1 The Beach is perfectly positioned on the edge of Porthtowan, where the village has a lovely relaxed, off-the-beaten-path feel, with a very pretty sandy beach backed by dunes.

Listen to the sound of rolling waves, smell the sea air and watch the daily sun seekers, surfers and families on the beach pass you by. What’s not to love?

Book your stay at No 1 The Beach with Beach Retreats.

No1. The Beach House, Porthtowan

The Tower, Praa Sands

Last but by no means least, we have The Tower in Praa Sands. The Tower is a large duplex apartment, occupying the top two floors of Acton Castle with a stunning roof terrace dating back to the 18th century. Views consist of the immaculate communal gardens, Mounts Bay and the famous St Michael’s Mount in Marazion.

Here you’ll find plenty of space for alfresco dining, loungers and a coffee table set.

Book your stay at Praa Sands with Beach Retreats.

The Tower, Praa Sands

Eat local on your self-catering holiday in Cornwall

Staying in a Beach Retreat property means Cornwall’s luscious bounty is always on your doorstep.

In farm shops, markets and local restaurants about the county, you’ll spy carrots, Cornish potatoes, mussels, samphire, figs, hazelnuts and much more autumnal produce. Here we have rounded up the best places to lay your hands on fresh local produce, so you can cut down the journey from field to plate and enjoy what the locals have to offer.

Visiting Cornwall for a romantic adventure? Check out our romantic cottages.

Baker Tom – multiple locations

As you walk into any of these stores, expect the smell of freshly made bread, scones, pastries and more. If you’re also a cheese lover, we highly recommend dipping some Baker Tom bread into a melted Camembert cheese. Baker Tom has got it all going on. Stores and Cafes can be found in Truro, Falmouth, Wadebridge, Pool and Penzance.

Purely Cornish – Looe

Located in lovely Looe, Purely Cornish offers visitors and locals alike a fantastic array of goodies. From Cornish chocolate, fudge and biscuits, to local jams and chutney. Is your mouth-watering yet?

Bre-pen Farm – Mawgan Porth

This National Trust farm on the cliffs above Mawgan Porth is worth a pilgrimage to pick up a few joints of its free-range lamb, reared on the green pastures and sea breezes of the north coast – Chefs swear you can taste the salty air in the meat. There can be no better reason to forgo burgers – these chops are perfectly suited to the smoky flavours of a beach barbie. Enquire within the farm shop, and pick yourself a few sprigs of herbs free of charge on the way out.

Fancy staying in Mawgan Porth? Have a look at our Mawgan Porth holiday properties.

Camel Valley – near Bodmin

Camel Valley Vineyard has been producing award-winning, world-class wine in Cornwall since 1989. Located near Bodmin, guests can either stop in the shop to purchase wine and champagne, or have it order to your door. For those that are really into their wines, why not enjoy a tour of the vineyard during your stay?

Camel Valley recently won Gold for their 2016 Pinot Noir, Still Rose at the Decanter World Wine Awards.

Trevilley Farm

There are farm shops and then there are farm shops like Trevilley. This award-winning shop on the outskirts of Newquay is one of the most lovingly stocked in Cornwall, selling own-produced meat (including South Devonshire beef), fruit and veg, chutneys, jams, cakes, pasties and quiches, as well as a plethora of other carefully sourced Cornish produce. You can also find a selection of local real ales, wines and juices.

Great Cornish Food Shop – Truro

Experience, celebrate and discover everything about delicious Cornish food and drink at the Great Cornish Food Shop in Truro. The independent grocery store, comes with its own butcher, fishmonger and chef-led café, deli, and takeaway. You’ll never want to leave.

Stein’s Deli and Patisserie – Padstow

For homemade jams, chutneys, relishes, spice mixes and oils, head to Stein’s Deli in Padstow where these are all made to Rick’s recipes. You’ll also find freshly baked goods including pasties, breads & pastries, all handmade and produced by the Rick Stein Group in Padstow.

Book your self-catering holiday with Beach Retreats.

Looking for a fantastic restaurant in Cornwall? Check out some of our favourite restaurants with stunning sea views.

St Ives walk through

A walk along one of Cornwall’s best Blue Flag beaches towards the seaside town of St Ives

Voted Best UK Holiday Destination by Coast Magazine, we visited the beautiful seaside town in the height of the summer to see what all the fuss was about…and we get it!

Thinking about staying in St Ives? Have a look at our luxury St Ives holiday properties.

Firstly getting to St Ives. Our top tip for parking is to drive to the Lelant Saltings Park and Ride train station just 4 miles away, where visitors can leave their cars and hop on the St.Erth to St.Ives Bay Line for just £4 return (please note there is a small charge for parking your vehicle).

St Ives Train

This famous line has some of the most beautiful scenery in England and is well worth the ride down to the beach. Below is just one of the many scenes you’ll pass on your way into St Ives. Hop off at the end of the line at Porthminster Beach, where you’ll see a large sandy bay backed by a wooded valley, with all the beach amenities you and your family will need.

Interested in staying in our most luxurious holiday cottages? Check out our luxury coastal cottages.

Directly in front of you on the beach you’ll see the Porthminster Beach Bar, the perfect spot for a quick bite to eat, cold drink or just some chill time from the sun. Watch out for those swooping seagulls when walking around with food.

Porthminster Beach, St Ives

Porthminster beach has a Lifeguard service from mid May to end of September. You will also find that there is a seasonal dog ban on this beach…but don’t worry, read on to find out where you can take your pooches!

Head right when on the beach where you’ll find a great spot for rockpooling and you might even spot some fascinating hidden sealife under rocks and amongst the green seaweed.

In the opposite direction (our favourite one) you’ll be able to walk through shallow clear waters, jump the waves and watch the boats bobbing in the distance.

Fancy yourself as a beach artist? The golden sands with a little sea water make for a great sandcastle competition with the family. How big will you go and don’t forget to shout ‘I’m the King of the Castle’ if you win.

As you walk the stretch of golden sand you’ll end up at St Ives Harbour Beach where well behaved dogs are more than welcome.

St Ives Harbour Beach

Don’t miss a photo stop at Smeaton’s Pier built in 1831 and the St Ives lighthouse.

St Ives Smeaton Pier

St Ives is known as a destination where famous artists flock year upon year. The piercing light, white sanded beaches, crystal clear waters and white washed fishermans cottages make for a great painting; not to mention the art galleries, quirky Cornish shops and lots of scrummy places to eat and drink.

Uncover the charm of St Ives, Cornwall, with our guide to this picturesque coastal town, renowned for its art, beaches, and vibrant local culture.

We couldn’t help but stop at the St Ives Bakery with the smells of freshly cooked Cornish pasties and cakes coming out of the ovens. Meringue anyone?

When walking through this pretty seaside town, you’ll come across many beautiful narrow cobbled streets, which make up a maze of new directions to take.

St Ives Cobbled Streets

To end your day, whether it’s Cornish ice cream, fudge or a little clotted cream, a stop at ‘Cornish Cream‘, is a must when walking through the town if you’re still feeling a little peckish from lunch.

Book your Cornish self-catering holiday with Beach Retreats.

Walk Through Prussia Cove

Coastal walk to Bessy’s Cove Beach.

Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Prussia Cove is situated on Cornwall’s south coast. Unlike the north, the south coast has many hidden sandy coves, inlets and rockpools to explore and are perfect for those dog-friendly walks.

Our new duplex apartment at Acton Castle offers spectacular views over Prussia Cove and out to Mount’s Bay. Starting from the private gardens of the Castle, head down the steps to join a footpath. Keep left, and on your right, there will be a stile into the open fields below. Wander down through the field, and to your left join the coast path which will take you to Cudden Point, Piskies Cove and Bessy’s Cove beach.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Piskies Cove is reputed to be one of the places where John Carter – The King of Prussia – landed his smuggled goods. Prussia Cove is renowned for smuggling activity in the late 18th Century. The coastline is suitably hidden with caves; perfect for stowing stolen treasures.

The coastal walk provides a tranquil escape: calm waters, quiet sandy coves, and uninterrupted views. At low tide, discover hidden coves and wander down to enjoy your own private beach. In the summer, the water is just right for cooling off and splashing in the shallows.

Discover our Porthleven holiday properties. Just a 20 minute drive away from Prussia Cove.

You will eventually reach Cudden Point, where the sea views and horizon seem endless. The grass top cliff provides a perfect spot for a break to soak-up the breathtaking views and enjoy a bite of your sandwich.

Further along, towards Piskies Cove, you’ll spot two posts on the coastal path. The posts are the remains of HMS Warspite, a destroyer built in Devonport that served in the Battle of Jutland. The ship was moored here on the way to be scrapped in Mount’s Bay in 1947, but broke it’s moorings, running aground in Prussia Cove.

Take a leisurely walk through Porthleven, discovering its picturesque harbour, stunning coastal views, and charming village atmosphere in Cornwall.

Over the hilltops, in the distance, you will see a sandy inlet, which is called Piskies Cove. This sheltered beach is often overlooked, however a short trek down the cliff will reward you with a Cornish secret spot.

Further along the coast path, lined with hedgerows and flowers, you’ll end up at Bessy’s Cove. Tucked away, Bessy’s Cove is a picturesque rocky cove perfect for sunbathing, swimming, alfresco dining and snorkelling.

Spend a lazy summer day, away from the crowds, exploring Prussia Cove.

Discover a beach on your doorstep at Acton Castle.

Circular walk from Trevone to Padstow

A coastal walk and countryside stroll all rolled into one.

There isn’t many places where you can experience inspiring sea views and tranquil countryside scenery on a walk. Cornwall is the perfect place to experience the best of both worlds, especially when it goes hand in hand with one of our fantastic dog-friendly properties.

Nestled among rolling hills, on the North coast of Cornwall, discover a charming Cornish village with a wide sandy beach, flanked by high sea cliffs.

Trevone Bay is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; just two miles from the popular fishing harbour of Padstow. Starting at Trevone beach, the circular walk is 7.4 miles long; a moderate route along the rugged Atlantic coast.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Follow the cliff path, past the Round Hole, which is a collapsed sea cave, with a channel that is still open to the sea. At high tide, on a calm day, it is possible to kayak right through the cave.

Walk up the cliff, past the gateway, and follow the main path across the coastal heath. Track the route taken by sailing ships to Stepper Point. The many caves spotted along the coast, provide ledges where seals haul themselves out of the water.

In the Spring and Summer time, the coastal heath is teaming with wildlife and wildflowers. The aromatic smell of wild gorse lingers in the air.

Near to Stepper Point, spot the stone tower standing proud on the clifftop. Known as the “Pepper Pot” the 40 foot stone tower, was built in 1830, as a daymark – a navigation beacon for seafarers during daylight. At 240 feet above sea level, the tower is visible from 30 miles away.

At Stepper Point, soak-up the panoramic sea views, and descend on the coastal path along the Camel Estuary to Hawker’s Cove. From the coastal path, look across the Estuary to Rock and Daymer Bay. There is a passenger ferry which operates between Rock and Padstow.

Explore our holiday properties in Padstow, just a short drive away from Port Isaac and Polzeath.

From Hawker’s Cove, cross the sandy beach of St George’s Cove before finally reaching the bustling harbour of Padstow.

In Padstow, stop for a spot of lunch at one of the local eateries or fish and chips on the harbour from Rick Steins.

Walking back to Trevone, follow the signs from Padstow town to Prideaux Place, a beautiful eighteenth century manor house. Pass the front of Prideaux Place, and follow the lane to find a barn on your right. Opposite the barn, take the footpath to the left and over the stile. Bare right along the path along the field.

On the route back to Trevone, pass the Padstow Farm Shop. Pop in for fresh veg, fruit, Cornish cheese, meat and everyday amenities. Follow the fields back to Trevone Bay and relax on the beach with a barbecue, and watch the sun go down.

Want to explore more of Cornwall? Check out our favourite autumnal walks in Cornwall.

Book your self-catering beach holiday in Trevone.

Cosy Cottages Made for Two

Escape to the coast for an alternative romantic getaway.

Experience a couples’ retreat like no other with inspiring sea views, magnificent coastal walks, and endless miles of golden sand on your doorstep.

Spot a seal on a kayak tour, steal a kiss on a clifftop walk or curl up under the stars.

Discover our hideaway cottages by the sea in Cornwall.

Visiting Cornwall for a romantic adventure? Check out our romantic cottages.

Harbourside Cottage, Boscastle

Nestled on the harbour, with tranquil views, Harbourside Cottage is the perfect hideaway. Stroll along the riverside to the ancient harbour. Lunch at the Boscastle Fishing Company with a lobster roll or discover the village’s secrets at the Museum of Witchcraft.

Explore the enchanting village of Boscastle in North Cornwall with Beach Retreats.

Book your magical getaway.

Toms Cottage, Porthleven

Located between the Lizard Peninsula and Prussia Cove, Porthleven is a beautiful Cornish fishing village. Tucked away from the harbour, Toms Cottage is a charming eighteenth century fisherman’s cottage. The port is a 2-minute stroll from the cottage, with waterfront shops, cafes and restaurants. A destination popular with food lovers, dine at Amelies seafood restaurant, Rick Stein’s fish and chips or Kota, which serves seafood with an Asian twist.

Book your romantic foodie break.

Lobber, Port Isaac

Port isaac

Situated in the heart of one of Cornwall’s most iconic harbour villages, Lobber offers couples the perfect hideaway. Walk along cobbled streets, discover location scenes from Doc Martin, and soak-up magnificent coastal views.

Just what the Doc ordered…

Escape to Port Isaac.

Lundy, Port Isaac

Surrounded by idyllic scenery, inspiring coastal views and countryside walks, Port Isaac is the ideal spot for a romantic getaway. Lundy is perfectly situated to explore the ancient harbour and neighbouring beaches, including Port Gaverne and Port Quin. In an evening, experience intimate dining at Nathan Outlaw’s seaside restaurant.

Plan your romantic getaway.

Whirlwind, Whitsand Bay

With an ever-changing backdrop, 5 miles of golden sand and spectacular clifftop walks, Whitsand Bay is perfect for a wild romantic break. Off the beaten track, Whirlwind is a cosy bolthole for two with a private patio area, providing an intimate space for sitting under a blanket of stars.

Book your love nest.

Find the perfect romantic retreat in Cornwall for couples.

Aspall Polo on the Beach 2017

We’ll be down on the beach this coming weekend for Aspall Polo on the Beach 2017 so come and say hello and try our birds-eye virtual reality tour of Cornwall.

Visiting with a large group? Discover our large holiday homes perfect for big families or friend groups.

Here is our ‘everything you need to know’ guide for visiting.

When is it

The 10^th anniversary happening takes place on May 19^th, 20^th and 21^st. (Friday to Sunday).

What happens at Polo on the Beach?

The weekend focuses on the two matches which take place on the Friday and Saturday evenings, both at 6.30pm. Events take place throughout the afternoons including Segway polo matches, Knights of Middle England jousting display, dance display and fireworks on the Friday night.

On Friday night an Asado BBQ takes place in the Beach Hut, followed by free music on the beach and a fireworks display at around 9.30pm.

On Saturday night, the beach party takes place with live music from local bands William The Conqueror and The Andy Quick Band, followed by headliners Molotov Jukebox. More about this ticketed event: https://www.watergatebay.co.uk/polo-on-the-beach/ . Sunday is a more relaxed family day where four-legged friends participate in the dog show and the RNLI will be on the beach.

Fancy staying in Watergate Bay? Check out our luxury holiday properties in Watergate Bay, Newquay.

Food and Drink

The Aspall beach bar, Jacquart champagne bar and Tarquin’s gin bar will be open from 11am each day, while there will be a range of street food stalls on the beach, as well as the Venus Beach Company. The Beach Hut will be open too, but booking is strongly recommended. Most of the stalls accept credit and debit cards.

Attending

It’s free to attend Polo on the Beach, while the Friday night Asado BBQ and Saturday night beach party are ticketed events.

There are no cash machines in Watergate Bay although many stalls accept credit and debit cards.

Parking is available in the field overlooking the bay at a cost £3.50 per day, from where you walk down the coast path to the beach.

Watergate Bay is dog friendly all year round, though on a lead for the weekend, especially around the pitch and food areas.

Public toilets are available across the road, with portable toilets in the extreme car park. There is a disabled toilet in The Beach Hut restaurant on the beach.

Don’t forget to share your photographs and tweets to #Poloonthebeach.

For the full timetable of events visit the official website – https://www.watergatebay.co.uk/polo/.

Interested in finding out more about Newquay? Discover what to do in and around Newquay.

The Ancient Mariner – Lynmouth, Devon

Lynmouth, Devon.

Resting below the sea cliffs on the harbour at Lynmouth, the Ancient Mariner’s pub offers the perfect place to relax.

The award-winning bar and restaurant overlooks the pier’s shingle beach and calm waters. Picture frame windows take advantage of the beautiful scenery and light the restaurant. Maritime-inspired interiors create a cool, young vibe with industrial iron tables and big leather sofas. The cosy log burner and soft furnishings create a space which feels inviting and makes dining and drinking very comfortable.

Fancy staying in a holiday retreat with a log burner? Check out our cottages with a log burner for a cosy getaway.

Located in the final stop on the Coleridge Way; a 51-mile walk in the poet’s footsteps, the Ancient Mariner is the perfect place to refuel after a hike along the moors. Named after the famous Coleridge poem “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner”, the pub offers a unique experience to dine in style.

Discover the charm and beauty of North Devon, where stunning landscapes and coastal adventures await with Beach Retreats.

The Food:

Whether you are after a light bite or a three course meal, the food is freshly prepared using local and seasonal produce. Expect traditional hearty meals with a modern twist. Try the Exmoor beef burger with black treacle and ale braised brisket or a classic rich and creamy macaroni and cheese. There is also a daily specials board with fresh seafood dishes.

For dessert, there is a selection of sweet and savoury dishes to choose from. The Devon cheese board platter is perfect for those looking to share.

The Ancient Mariner stocks many local ales, beers, ciders, guest ales and organic juices. The famous local crafted gin “Wicked Wolf” can also be found behind the bar, which is made on the banks of the East Lyn river.

A variety of fine liquors can be enjoyed in the Aubrey Cocktail Bar, which is adjoined to the Ancient Mariner. Experience luxurious interiors with a hygge twist and unwind with friends and family. During the day stop-off for a homemade cream tea, fresh from the oven, or indulge in an afternoon tea.

The Ancient Mariner and Aubrey Cocktail Bar are with 10-minutes walking distance of our self-catering holiday apartments at Tors Park.

Book your holiday in Lynmouth.

Explore the captivating contrasts of dawn and dusk along the Cornish coast, each offering its own magical ambience and breathtaking views.

Walk Through Lynton and Lynmouth

Experience self-catering holidays in Devon by the sea.

Lynmouth encapsulates the wild beauty of north Devon, in a charming picturesque postcard village. The idyllic coastal town is often dubbed Little Switzerland, due to its spectacular landscape and tranquil waters. Flanked by high sea cliffs, Lynmouth is where Exmoor meets the sea.

Discover unbeatable savings and unforgettable experiences with Beach Retreats’ exclusive special offers.

The sheltered harbour, with its famous Rhenish Tower, nestles beneath the cliffs on north Devon’s heritage coast. On the rugged cliff top, overlooking the mooring, the Edwardian village of Lynton stands proud. A water-powered funicular railway connects the two resorts. One of the most environmentally friendly tourist attractions in the country, the cliff railway is a great way to experience the magnificent rugged landscape. On a clear day, from the Cliff Top Cafe in Lynton, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views across to Wales.

Lynton and Lynmouth offer a unique holiday experience. The twin villages are bursting with local charm and character with an array of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. In the summer at dusk, the resorts twinkle under the night sky as people wander along the pier and venture upon the cliff railway to Lynton. There is a priceless sense of nostalgia and identity in the region. The unspoilt landscape provides a sense of escape to those seeking a holiday from the busy pace of modern life.

Discover the charm and beauty of North Devon, where stunning landscapes and coastal adventures await with Beach Retreats.

Discover Exmoor.

Set in the heart of Exmoor National Park, Lynmouth is the perfect place to access the inner moor. Surrounded by magnificent wooded hills, this part of north Devon’s coastline provides plenty of walking (or for the less energetic – driving) opportunities.

Abundant with wildlife, Exmoor has more than 600 miles of marked footpaths to explore. Ponies, sheep and majestic red deer graze the moorland whereas falcons, buzzards and the rare merlin circle overhead.

From Lynmouth, visitors don’t have to travel far to experience the wild scenery of Exmoor. Follow the coast two miles east to Countisbury Hill to find hill tops teeming with wildlife. On Countisbury Hill the high ground tumbles to meet the coastal cliffs which plunge into the sea. In spring, the hill tops are golden yellow from wild gorse whereas in the autumn the hedgerows are an auburn colour.

Further inland, discover ancient woodlands and waterfalls at Watersmeet. The East Lyn river rips through the landscape on its journey from the plateau of Exmoor to the sea and Lynmouth. Giant boulders and striking outcrops are left behind as the river carves its way through the landscape, creating one of Britain’s deepest river gorges.

In the 19th century this wild landscape drew tourists and great Romantic poets. Southey, along with Coleridge, Wordsworth and Shelley were enchanted by Lynmouth and its hinterland, comparing Watersmeet with the Alps.

Once a Victorian fishing lodge, Watersmeet House is a charming tearoom set within the picturesque landscape of hidden Exmoor. Enjoy a traditional Devonshire cream tea with whortleberry jam and listen to the trickling water of the East Lyn river. During the summer months, the river provides the perfect fishing spot for salmon and sea trout whereas in the quieter months, the waters are great for canoeing.

Explore the Valley of the Rocks.

Dramatic scenery encapsulates the north Devon coastline and inner countryside. The spectacular moorland at the Valley of the Rocks is less than one mile in walking distance of Lynmouth. The Valley of the Rocks is a unique dry valley that runs parallel to the coast.

In the area, there are plenty of walks with striking weathered rock formations with names such as “The Devil’s Cheesewring”, “Ragged Jack” and “Castle Rock”. The sublime valley has its own population of wild goats which roam the rocks and cliff edges. Climb the rocks to experience breathtaking views across the rugged landscape and Bristol Channel.

Discover the foodie delights of The Ancient Mariner in Lynmouth, where delicious food and drink are served in a charming, historic setting.

Fancy a walk on the wild side?

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