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You know that feeling when your holiday is coming to an end, yet there’s still so many things you want to do?

We feel you. That’s why, this year, you don’t have to worry about your time running out too soon when you book a stay with us this winter. When you book three or five night break from November until March (excluding school holidays), enjoy two extra nights on us.

Find out more about booking your stay here.

Because more time means more freedom to enjoy Cornwall, the way you want to.

Keep an eye on our socials over the coming weeks, where we’ll be hosting a series of competitions giving you the chance to win some great prizes to enjoy during your two free nights.  

In need of some more inspiration? Here’s a few suggestions on ways to make the most of your two free nights by the sea.

Explore the South West Coast Path

Cornwall has over 300 miles of coastline, just waiting to be explored. From your retreat you’ll have easy access to the South West Coast Path, where you’re guaranteed incredible vistas and untouched wildlife no matter the direction you go in. 

South West Coast Path are inviting any keen walkers and coast path lovers to become a member. A full year’s membership includes a copy of their handy guidebook of coastal walks, full of the best trails and detailed maps of the coast. This year, use your two free nights to explore more of Cornwall’s coastline, with their knowledge and expertise helping you to discover lesser-known routes, hidden coves, secret wildlife spots and more.

With your membership, you’ll receive monthly e-newsletters packed with coast path inspiration to be used for your next visit, and exclusive member discounts at major outdoor retailers. You’ll also become part of a community that works hard to preserve our beautiful coastal paths for future generations to enjoy.

Become a member here.

Cook up a storm

Make the most of your self catering retreat and its fully equipped kitchen, by cooking a delicious feast on one of your two free nights.

This is made easy by Stein’s at Home boxes, which deliver the excitement of a chef’s kitchen to your doorstep. The cook-at-home meal boxes have been pre-prepared by Steins chefs, and simply require finishing off in your kitchen by following the easy cooking instructions.

The delicious options include a three course lobster thermidor box, with a fresh scallop starter and decadent chocolate pave for dessert. Or choose from a vegetarian Indonesian curry box, autumn afternoon tea, weekend breakfast box and more.

Tuck in to these classic dishes in the comfort of your holiday retreat and enjoy your extra time with a full belly.

Go surfing

If you haven’t hit the surf yet, this is your chance to make a splash and try one of Cornwall’s most popular pastimes before you leave. From the surfing capital of Newquay to the more mellow waves of the south coast, Cornwall is endowed by enticing water on every coast. And in winter the swell is more consistent and powerful, yet less crowded, making it a great time to learn.

Book onto a private session with Wavehunters and ride the waves at Watergate Bay or Polzeath, with the support of their expert instructors. They’ll supply all your kit, including high-tech wetsuits, gloves, booties and hoods, so you’ll barely even notice the cold air and water temperatures. Whether you’re a total beginner or want to fine-tune your surfing skills, the session will be tailored to you, and all ages are welcome. 

Book your session here and spend your extra time in the ocean. 

Bring your pup

Let your dog take the lead on a pup-friendly holiday by the sea. With two free nights, your furry friend can join you in exploring more of the coastline from one of our dog friendly retreats.

As the summer ends, the restrictions on which beaches you can visit with a dog start to end too, meaning there’s plenty of sweeping bays or quiet coves to explore with your dog.

To keep your pup sweet during your strolls, why not try a selection of Forthglade’s natural dog treats? The range of natural, soft bite treats will make your pup’s stay as special as yours, with plenty for them to chew on throughout your two free nights. Mix and match with peppermint and parsley fresh breath bites, post-beach swim reward treats made with chicken and liver, and calming herbal treats to soothe your pup into a slumber after a busy day of coastal walking. Browse their range here.

See the sunrise on the beach

Everyone loves a sunset, and there’s no doubt that Cornwall throws a blazing sundowner show on its north coast beaches. But how about getting up for the sunrise instead? Many of our Beach Retreats on the south coast are perfectly situated for you to pad down onto the sand, coffee in hand, to witness the sun peaking above the horizon and lighting up the ocean in the early hours of the morning. So set your alarm, take a coffee and a camera, and hit the beach for golden hour.

Photo: The Penthouse 4 The Bay, Cawsand, South Cornwall.

Turn your back on the sea and head inland

Holidays in Cornwall aren’t just about the beach. Turn your focus away from the sea and you can discover some incredible natural gems inland. Explore the wild terrain of Bodmin Moor where you can climb Cornwall’s highest peaks of Rough Tor and Brown Willy, and witness Bronze Age and Neolithic sites including stone circles, quoits and settlements. Or why not enjoy a day out in Cornwall’s woodlands? Pack a picnic and spot squirrels at Tehidy, or keep your eyes peeled for Cornish piskies as you explore magical valleys on the way to St Nectan’s Glen on the north coast, or Golitha Falls near Liskeard.

Eat seafood in a fishing village

The seafood landed in Cornwall is some of the best in the UK – and every holiday by the beach warrants at least one helping of fish and chips. To really soak up the fishing heritage and get your chops around the freshest catch, make sure you visit a quaint Cornish fishing village, where you can tuck into the freshest catch with a view to the day boats that bring it ashore. Some of our favourite spots include The Lugger in Portloe, Restaurant Nathan Outlaw in Port Isaac, The Mariners in Rock and Tolcarne Inn, nestled by the harbour in Newlyn.

Photo: The Boathouse, Newquay, North Cornwall.

Hop aboard a ferry trip

Messing around on boats is all part of the Cornish lifestyle. And in a county steeped in maritime heritage and surrounded by the ocean, one of the best ways to experience Cornwall’s glory is on the water. Hop on the Black Tor ferry to float from Padstow to Rock, take the scenic King Harry Chain Ferry to the Roseland Peninsula, or ride on the Cawsand Ferry from a serene beach to the heart of Plymouth. FalRiver Links runs a network of ferries on and around the River Fal throughout the year, including a river cruise from Falmouth to Truro and crossings from Falmouth to Flushing and St Mawes.

Photo St Mawes, Roseland Peninsula.

Go on adventures in autumn gardens

Crunch through golden leaves, climb trees and tunnel through autumn foliage that tumbles to the water’s edge. Some of our top gardens for wild winter walks include the National Trust’s maze of woodland at Lanhydrock, the sub-tropical landscape of Glendurgan, and Trelissick’s stunning 500-acre estate on the banks of the River Fal. Another favourite with families – and dogs, too – is Trebah Garden, where you can make your way through a sheltered valley to a little cove that’s perfect for skimming stones. Out of all of the county’s garden wonderlands, the Eden Project is still the mega-star and all-weather haven, where you can wander through a rainforest, bask in the Med and visit a Western Australian garden in the iconic, sky-scraping biomes.

Photo The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Mevagissey, south Cornwall.

Make the first footprints in the sand on a secluded beach

There’s nothing more exciting than discovering a secret cove, or a secluded stretch of sands where your footsteps are the first to mark the ebbing tide. And once summer’s bucket-and-spade brigades have left, it’s much easier to find a little piece of paradise to yourself. For a nudge in the right direction, seek out The Strangles, a mile from Crackington Haven, Leggan Cove, tucked beneath rugged cliffs on the Lizard Peninsula, or Duckpool, just north of Bude. Or be adventurous and unfold an OS map, pinpoint a tiny cove and veer away from the main tourist tracks to discover your own secret cove.

NEED TO KNOW

Book a 3 or 5 night break and get an extra 2 nights free. This offer is available from November to Easter (excluding school holidays).

To claim one of these offers, book a 5 or 7 night stay and use code 5FOR3 or 7FOR5 on the checkout page, or book by telephone on 01637 861005.

You can arrive on any day of the week, as long as the entire stay falls within these dates.

A handful of properties are excluded from this offer, see individual property pages for further information.

BOOK YOUR TWO FREE NIGHTS BELOW

Cornwall doesn’t stop in October and November. In fact, these autumn months are when the local culture comes to life, with a range of cultural, music and foodie events. Here’s our pick of happenings over the next coming months, including theatre shows, foodie events and firework displays.

Save 20% on stays throughout October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

Falmouth Oyster Festival

Church Street, Falmouth from 13 – 16 October 2022

Celebrating the start of Oyster season, this is one of Cornwall’s biggest and best love food festivals. Shuck and sample the native Fal Oyster, watch cookery demos (or even join them on stage) or just kick back and relax in the bustling atmosphere with bands taking to the stage well into the evenings.

Hall for Cornwall

Book tickets for an event at The Hall for Cornwall, Truro, Cornwall’s famous playhouse. The much-loved playhouse and live music venue hosts a variety of music and theatrical events throughout autumn and winter, and is a great option for a rainy evening. Spend the afternoon browsing Truro’s farmer’s market for local produce before your booked event. 

October and November events include Gary Barlow’s solo show A Different Stage, Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ Living Dangerously, a theatre performance of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and Fisherman’s Friends live.

Browse what’s on throughout October and November and book your tickets online via The Hall for Cornwall.

Bonfire Night displays

There’s nowhere better to watch fireworks than in the dark skies of Cornwall, unpolluted by city lights, meaning the kaleidoscopic colours truly glow. Head to Heartlands for the county’s largest bonfire show, which is free to attend and includes live music, a family friendly fairground, a selection of food and drink and a spectacular firework show. 

See the full details here.

Book your stay in Cornwall this October and November – search our retreats.

Save 20% on stays throughout October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

September is here, but the sunshine hasn’t gone. Enjoy an Indian summer at one of our bespoke beachside retreats, all within walking distance to the shoreline. From early morning coffee sipped as you leave the first footprints in the sand, to late night dinners on a seafront balcony as the sun slides beyond the horizon. September by the sea is made for slow, savoured moments like these.

Here’s our top picks for available retreats this September, with something to suit all groups, from families, couples, those looking to celebrate and those holidaying with four-legged friends.

Browse our beach locations to find a retreat near your favourite part of the coast. Save 20% on stays throughout September and October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

For families

Through the eyes of children, sandy beaches are giant playgrounds, with shells, seaweed and shiny pebbles to collect, rockpools to examine and room for whole empires of sandcastles. Family getaways by the ocean are truly something special, opening the little ones’ eyes to the magic of the natural world whilst the adults kick back on the sand, listening to the cacophony of giggles over splashing waves. These retreats make the perfect base for a family holiday, with short walks to the beach and an array of amenities to keep all ages entertained.

Egret View, Fistral

Sleeps eleven

This riverfront retreat is a play palace for kids. With a life size wooden play boat, climbing wall, adaptable games table and bunk beds with a built in slide, they’ll feel transported to another world where fun rules, morning to night. Families will also love the large living, dining and kitchen area, with two separate sitting room sections and a huge dining table, meaning that everyone can be together without it feeling crammed. Slide open the glass doors to the river facing balcony and watch paddleboarders and kayakers glide past – or hire out your own and head out on the water.

Gwel Teg, Porth

Sleeps twelve

This modern cabin house is tucked away up a quiet street just moments from the family favourite beach, Porth. Inside, a leafy planted balcony leads around to a bubbling hot tub, full size table tennis table, comfy outdoor sofas and sun loungers, the perfect spot for family afternoons in the sun. Downstairs the home also features a large games room with a 75 inch TV, PS4 and bean bags, made for movie nights or gaming evenings.

For couples

Nothing says a romantic getaway like hand in hand windswept walks, lazy beach days snacking on picnics, and a retreat with the perfect private space for you to share. Our romantic retreats come in all shapes and sizes for all couples to enjoy, from cosy cottages near date night certified restaurants to sleek and secluded apartments on the best coastal walking routes. Feel the love on your next coastal getaway.

71 The Rest, Porthcawl

Sleeps four

This beachside bolthole makes for the dream space for couples who love getting active, exploring new shorelines or simply relaxing on the balcony with a magazine and gin in hand. Situated by the seaside town of Porthcawl in Wales, couples can enjoy the sprawing sands of Rest Bay, a popular spot for watersports and sunset strolls. 71 The Rest features two bedrooms, one with an ensuite, and a family bathroom, meaning that two couples could holiday together comfortably.

Pilchard Cottage, Mousehole

Sleeps five

This fisherman’s cottage has been renovated to become a fully equipped holiday retreat whilst keeping its traditional charm. In the heart of Mousehole, this is the ideal romantic getaway, inviting couples to wander cobbled streets, share ice cream overlooking the picture-book harbour and skim stones on the pebbled beach the other side of the harbour wall.

For celebrations

The pop of a Champagne bottle, sultry fizz in your glass, clinking pots of baked seafood and local veg from the farmer’s market. Celebratory holidays require enough space to all be together, to eat, drink, laugh and soak up the sun. These large, light filled homes make for dream celebration spaces, with fully equipped feast-ready kitchens and leisurely lounging spaces with vast vistas.

Watergate Lodge, Watergate Bay

Sleeps twelve

This innovative eco-home comfortably hosts twelve, with five velvety, shaded bedrooms and a large open plan living, dining and kitchen space with a curved roof and floor to ceiling glass doors which open out to the patio. Stepping outside, family and friends can relax around a roaring sunken firepit, admire the stars on the roof terrace with comfy sofas or graze on the twelve seater outdoor dining table. Inside, a Sonos surround sound speaker system, 65 inch Smart TV, separate TV room and LED lighting inside means the entertaining can continue whatever the weather.

Heron House, Fistral beach

Sleeps fourteen

Morning laps in the swimming pool, followed by garden yoga and breakfast on the balcony. This large villa-style retreat sleeps an impressive fourteen and makes for the perfect celebration getaway whether you’re looking for an active relaxation stay with friends or a family birthday gathering with daily BBQs and hot tub sessions. Situated just seconds from the River Gannel with gate access to the path below, celebrate in style by floating by on a paddleboard or setting off on a kayak excursion.

For dogs

Sandy paws, wagging tails dipped in sea water, endless sandy shores for playing fetch with sticks of driftwood. Cornwall is a pup paradise, and anyone who’s brought their dog to the beach will know how much their four-legged friends love it. Book a stay in one of our dog friendly retreats, equipped with garden space for snoozing pups and outdoor showers for rinsing off after a day on the sand.

Sea View, Crantock

Sleeps ten

Pups will love this spacious home, with a large green garden for sunny afternoons and an outdoor shower area. Sea View sits just moments from Polly Joke beach, a far quieter, loved by locals spot which is dog friendly all year round. You’re also close to the beautiful dog friendly beaches of Crantock, Holywell Bay and Fistral. The surrounding coastal path is great for dog walks, too, just be sure to keep your pup on a lead at all times when on the cliff top. 

Fistral View, Fistral beach

Sleeps six

This four-floored seafront house is deceptively large, offering a stylish open plan living, dining and kitchen space, games room with comfy bean bags, two ocean facing balconies and a secluded back garden. It’s also just footsteps from one of Cornwall’s most alluring dog friendly beaches, with its expanse of golden sand, grassy dunes and rolling surf.

Wonderwall, Hayle

Sleeps seven

This bespoke beach lodge is close to Hayle’s Upton Towans beach, which is dog friendly all year round. The area is also great for dog walks, with the nearby nature reserve and coast path providing hazy blue vistas and plenty of wildlife. Inside, you can enjoy a decadent design filled with antique pieces and rustic furnishings, with sliding doors that open out to an enclosed garden perfect for dinners outside whilst your pup plays.

Save 20% on stays throughout September and October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

Summer is coming to a close, but autumn in Cornwall has its own magic. Quieter beaches, glowing sunsets, balmy sea air and coastal walks on cliff paths or rural fields with crunchy leaves underfoot.

Cornwall offers something for everyone, no matter what time of the year, and autumn is a perfect time to experience nature do its thing once the summer crowds have dispersed. We hope this guide gives you plenty of inspiration when holidaying with us throughout the next couple of months.

Browse our beach locations to find your perfect autumn stay. Save 20% on stays throughout September and October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

Go foraging

Make the most of the late summer bounty that can be found in Cornwall’s woodlands and hedgerows. From blackberries and Hawthorne berries to rosechips, hazelnuts and chestnuts, there’s always hidden treats to be picked.

If you’re looking for a little guidance on your forage we recommend Fat Hen, a wild food and cookery school in Cornwall. They run a variety of unique foraging courses, including a seaweed course, and you can then keep your produce to cook up right on the sand. The flavours of nature are unmatched… 

Take a surf lesson

If the waves are too busy for you in the height of the summer, autumn is the perfect time to get suited and booted and ride with the locals. Hire your wetsuit and board from a local surf school such as Newquay Activity Centre, Wavehunters at Watergate Bay or King Surf at Mawgan Porth, with lessons included for all abilities.

Wild swimming

Want to enjoy the ocean but don’t fancy the fast-paced nature of surfing? Autumn is the perfect time to take a leisurely dip in Cornwall’s cool blue oceans, where you can take slow breaths as you gently float atop the water. The sea temperature remains warm throughout September and October, having been gently heated by months of summer sun, making these months ideal if mid-winter dips take your breath away.

Read our guide to wild swimming in conversation with Co Founder of Wild Swimming Cornwall, Lydia Paleschi.

Walk the South West Coast Path

With over 300 miles of stunning coast path to explore this Autumn, visitors are really spoilt for choice on which direction to head in. Whether its the rugged north coast and its hidden coves or the tropical south coast, you’ll find something different and exciting each turn you take. And with all of our properties walking distance from the water, you’ll have easy access to the coast path from your front door.

Choose the perfect path for you here.

Storm watch with a hot chocolate

If the weather has cooled a little for your stay, don’t panic. There’s nothing better than hunkering down and watching the perfect storm whilst sipping on a delicious hot chocolate…with extra toppings of course. Our top spot for this is The Beach Hut at Watergate Bay, where you can indulge on the sweet taste of cocoa and cream in with a front row view of the surfers braving the cold. 

Read our top five spots for the best hot chocolates in Cornwall.

Discover a new beach

Explore Cornwall’s beaches this autumn, when you’ll have more of the sand to yourself. Walk the shell-dotted shorelines until you find the perfect nook to sit back, relax and listen to the sights and sounds of the Atlantic ocean. Pack a beach blanket, swimsuit and a good book – it’s all you need to while away hours.

Browse our different beach locations and pick your favourite.

Visit one of the Great Gardens of Cornwall

Cornwall’s not only known for its stunning beaches, its magical gardens are home to a wealth of exciting, rare and beautiful plants and trees just waiting to be explored. Head to The Lost Gardens of Heligan to discover higgledy allotments, greenhouses bursting with herby aromas, wonky pumpkins sprouting from the ground and the hidden sleeping giant dusted with moss.

Save 20% on stays throughout September and October at selected retreats, see our special offers page for more information.

Hunker down this season with a hot chocolate and beachside views.

The sweet glug of hot chocolate, topped with sprinkles and enjoyed with sticky fingers and a coastal view. With the arrival of autumn, it’s time wrap up, get cosy and search for a showstopping hot chocolate (with extra marshmallows of course). We’ve sampled the best hot chocolates in Cornwall to give you a head start – here’s our top five.

The Beach Hut, Watergate Bay

Towered with whipped cream, marshmallows and extra-large buttons, it’s no surprise that the Extreme Hot Chocolate is a firm favourite in the bay. Choose from classic marshmallow, orange or Oreo, or go vegan in keeping with The Beach Hut’s 50% plant-based approach, with oat milk, dairy-free Oreos, orange buttons, and oat milk squirty cream.

Stay in Watergate Bay.

Hungry Horsebox Co., Hayle

Where better to sip a hot chocolate than out in the elements, the wind whipping around your woolly hat and sea foam in the air? Hungry Horsebox, situated on the rugged Gwithian Towans beach in Hayle, have made their Ultimate Hot Chocolate a permanent addition to their menu, and it’s a delight. Topped with wafer rolls, smarties, caramel chunks and a stick of toasted marshmallow, it’s bound to get you warmed up, no matter the weather.

Stay in Hayle.

Gylly Beach Cafe, Falmouth

Just a stone’s throw from our luxury Falmouth apartments, Gylly Beach Cafe is one of our go to eateries in Falmouth, not just for food, but of course their signature hot chocolate. With the choice of alfresco dining or comfortable seating inside, Gylly Beach Cafe is open all year round and located directly on the beach. Be sure to ask for whipped cream, marshmallows AND chocolate sprinkles.

Stay in Falmouth.

Poldhu Cafe, Poldhu

If it’s choice you want, then it’s choice you’ll have. Poldhu is a secret cove located on the beautiful Lizard Peninsula in south Cornwall. Its cafe is known as the heart of the beach, famous for its Poldhutastic Hot Chocolates and rightly so. Whipped cream and marshmallows come as standard, with a choice of five brand new chocolatey toppings including Malteser, Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, Dairy Milk Buttons, Mini Eggs and Oreo. We know, our mouths are watering too.

Find a Poldhutastic Hot Chocolate.

Book your Autumn retreat at one of our beach locations, and keep an eye on our special offers page for seasonal discounts.

The Watering Hole, Perranporth

If you’ve been to The Watering Hole, then you’ll know that Perranporth boasts some of the most amazing sunsets. Pack some blankets, get the family together and dine alfresco with one of these bad boy hot chocolates. Perranporth beach is also home to The Dunes, a brand new development of contemporary self-catering apartments.

Stay at The Dunes.

Thinking of booking a trip to Bude and not sure the best things to do around the area? We’ve got you covered. Bude is a stunning seaside town, with two beaches, Crooklets for surf and sunbathing and Summerleaze for dipping in the sea pool. Beyond its sandy beaches there’s also a buzzing foodie scene, array of quirky independent shops and plenty to do. Here’s our ultimate guide of what to do in Bude.

Browse our Bude retreats.

Swim in the sea pool

On the soft sands of Summerleaze beach you’ll notice a glistening blue slick of water, dotted with swimmers and the odd bobbing gull. Get closer and take a dip in this sea pool, where the water is always calm and the air fresh and salty. A semi-natural pool, this is the perfect spot for a free, safe swim, especially if you have the little ones in tow.

Bude beach yoga

Rise with the first light of dawn and stretch it out. There’s nothing more invigorating than being in harmony with nature, your lungs full of sea air, the only sound the distant crash of waves and your bare feet in the silken sand. Claire Jennings is an established yoga teacher and runs sessions on Crooklets beach in the mornings and at sunset.

Learn to surf

Fancy getting your heart beating and your adrenalin pumping? Grab a board and take to the waves with Big Blue Surf School, where qualified instructors will show you the ropes of this invigorating sport. Situated on Summerleaze beach, you’ll experience the north coast’s consistent swell, and are sure to be standing up in no time.

Image credit: Big Blue Surf School

Dine at Temple

After a day on the beach, there’s nothing better than heading back to your self-catering holiday retreat for a shower to freshen up before going back out for an evening of fine dining. Try Temple, a beautiful dining spot which serves up simple dishes made with fresh ingredients. Sample small plates of braised fennel, BBQ’d mushrooms, daily fresh fish and porchetta with courgettes and picked shallots, washed down with your choice of white or red.

Sundowners at The Beach at Bude

Bude’s north coast position means it benefits from dramatic sunsets which sink behind the horizon directly before your eyes. Head to The Beach at Bude, a hotel bar and restaurant with a front facing outdoor terrace, to enjoy sundowners with a sunset view. Will it be a light and refreshing mojito to cool down in the summer heat, or a negroni the colour of the sunset sky?

Walk to Widemouth Bay

If you fancy stretching your legs, the nearby coastline towards Widemouth Bay is not to be missed. The walk is three miles along the rugged coast path, and features stunning panoramas and breathtaking sea vistas. If you go in summer, you’ll also spot wildflowers dotted along the cliffs. You may also be lucky enough to see some wildlife, such as sea birds and seals, along the way.

Find out more about Bude and see our retreats below. Keep an eye on our special offers page, too, for the latest deals and discounts. 

We caught up with our friends at EWWines, who’ve come up with a discounted case of wines to be delivered straight to your holiday home.

Summer time – the time to be active or kick back and relax. Cornish holidays are all about long coastal walks, sunset drinks, surfing and time outside in the fresh sea air reconnecting with friends and family.

To help with the excitement, we believe a new approach to wine is needed to accommodate your summer palate and seasonal food.

We’re excited to introduce our coastal wine cases for Beach Retreats customers to enjoy whilst on holiday.  These cases are wines with a coastal influence, handpicked from around the world of wine. The coastal factor in wine terms often brings cooling influences to vineyards, which slows ripening significantly and helps to preserve natural acidity for you to enjoy in your luxury coastal retreat.  Choose Red, White or Mixed (3 White and 3 Red). Three fantastic opportunities to taste some of our hand selected range with fantastic savings for you, couriered to your door to start your holiday right!  Browse our coastal cases here. 

At checkout, use code BEACH22 to receive an exclusive 10% off these cases as a thank you. This enables our Coastal Cases to be couriered to your holiday property for £70.95, or utilise our click and collect service from our Indian Queens store for free, making your case just £63.

The Wines

Our first suggestion has got to be THE wine of the summer. Tiny, tiny production so grab yours whilst you can!  We’re excited to introduce Lost in a Field “Frolic” Pet-Nat by Tim Wildman MW and winemaker Daniel Ham (Offbeat Wines). It’s summer in a glass.

What is a Pet-Nat?  Short for pétillant naturel, this is an old method in which at its simplest the fermentation is interrupted and the wine is bottled and sealed which traps carbon dioxide as the fermentation resumes (hopefully). The wines are therefore mostly unfiltered with visible sediment and often lower alcohol and pressure than for example a traditional method sparkling wine such as Champagne are to be expected.

Frolic is an excellent addition to any mixed case and a welcome addition to a beach gathering or party.  This wine has a fantastic story and has firmly shined the spotlight on “British Heritage Vines” and celebrates small scale hobby vineyards at the same time, creating a community project, the Lost Vineyard Preservation Society.  Check out Jancis Robinson’s recent article whilst sipping a glass of Frolic in the sunshine!

Another of our favourite tipples is Bosue Vineyard Rose 2019.  Paul the winemaker was recently in-store for a free tasting session, so we took the opportunity to ask a couple of questions because they too do things a little differently. We discovered that their tiny 550 bottle production of this wine is 100% Regent, a modern hybridised variety mentioned above with no reserve wine. Paul riddles and disgorges by hand in small batches. Riddling and disgorging started in April 2022.  This means there is almost two years on the lees, more than double the requirement for wine labelled “Quality Sparkling Wine” in England which adds a subtle character to the wine of toast and pastry. Rhubarb, cranberry, redcurrants and tart raspberry on the nose with a delicate rose and leafy character and the toasty layers too. The acidity is high and the red fruits are crunchy and bright, almost like biting into a crisp pink lady apple.  Super refreshing on a summer’s day with a little sweetness on the finish.

We also have an incredible range of spirits, with something for every occasion from premium Mezcal, Rum, Whisky and much more. However, a gin that we could not recommend highly enough is the Loveday Golden Hour Gin.  This is a pink gin like no other, delicious, fresh, bitter-sweet, and a little floral. Our perfect serve would be over ice, with a premium tonic of your choice and a slice of grapefruit whilst watching the sunset.

Another gin which screams of summer to us is the Wrecking Coast Clotted Cream Gin. It’s made with 100% Cornish strawberries freshly pressed from the renowned strawberry fields of Boddington’s Berries, with no added sugars, flavourings or sweeteners. Our Perfect serve: pour over plenty of ice and top with either an elderflower tonic or lemonade, garnish with fresh sliced strawberries and allow the flavours to combine so you can enjoy the taste of summer in your glass! 

Our Wine Emotion machines have been repaired and reloaded with 16 wines, with summer in mind. We’ve wines from the Loire, Greece, Italy and Chile, just another reason to come in-store and taste with our in house WSET Certified Educator, for free. Why not discover something new, or revisit an old friend?

Tasting Sessions

In August we continue our Free Producer Tasting series with a Cornish brand in-store most Fridays or Saturdays! 

Sat 6th Aug, Rosemullion Distillery – Andy, 10:30am to 5pm

Fri 12th Aug, Wrecking Coast – Avian, 12:30 to 5pm

Sat 20th Aug, Curio Spirits 12:30pm to 5pm

Summer Dish Ideas

Here’s a few of our favourite summer dish ideas with a wine suggestion or two from our hand selected, extensive range;

Barbecued Lamb, new potato salad, garden greens. We recommend shoving garlic cloves and rosemary into incisions across your joint, rubbing in olive oil and a generous pinch of salt and pepper before BBQing at approx. 180 in a roasting pan with a generous glug of red wine until the meat is at 60 degrees, and rest for 15 mins. Pair with something that starts with fruit and finishes with pepper, such as cooler climate Syrah. Or, for something with bolder fruits and a fresh herbaceous lift to finish choose from Cabernet Sauvignon or a Cabernet style Zinfandel. If the sun is shining, a quality Provence should also not be overlooked. The Garriques or dried herbs and red fruits will complement the lamb very well indeed. AIX Provence Rose from Maison Saint AIX would be a fantastic pairing. It’s tasty, generous and elegant too. Your only problem is you might need a larger format (We stock 3L Double Magnum bottles too!) because it’s a perfect wine to drink all day long!

Try a Tabouli packed with garden peas, summer chard or spinach, courgette, cucumber, dill, parsley and a touch of goat’s cheese crumbled on top. Our perfect wine suggestion would be the new in Cote Mas Sauvignon Blanc Vermentino 2020 to complement the dish perfectly. With unique aromas of flowers, peach and pear, it’s generous on the palate, just like the sunshine that blesses it’s vineyards! The rich flavours pair perfectly with the earthy quinoa and floral, citrus and herbal notes perfect with the summer vegetables and the bright acidity from the Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the goat’s cheese. This pairing is so delicious it’ll keep you reaching for your glass!

Browse our beach locations to find your perfect retreat and favourite beach to sip your wine on, and keep an eye on our special offers page for the latest discounts.

Planning a trip to Porthleven and wondering what to see and do there? We’ve got you covered. This pretty harbour town has a thriving foodie scene, sandy beach and a working harbour, perfect for watching the boats bob in and out from one of the harbourside pubs. Here’s our top things to see and do in Porthleven.

Drink at The Ship Inn

This traditional, 17^th century pub feels like you’re stepping back in time – that is, until you sample their fresh, modern menu. With traditional pub décor and an excellent view of the harbour, this cosy pub is made for whiling away the day sipping your pint of choice and admiring the harbour activity. Spot seabirds in the summer or hide from the storms in the winter, which often see waves crashing over the harbour walls. This old fisherman’s haunt is the best place in Porthleven to eat, drink and relax, no matter the weather.

Photo credit: Ed Perkins

Eat fish and chips at the harbour

Tuck into the freshest caught fish, battered to perfection and adorned with as much salt and vinegar as you like. Fish and chips are best enjoyed right by the sea, and Porthleven’s harbour wall is an ideal spot for soaking up the bustling atmosphere as you eat. Head to Porthleven Fish and Chips or The Top Chippy to get your fix. Just watch out for hungry seagulls!

Wild swimming

Porthleven has many sheltered spots for a dip to cool off in the summer months, or, if you’re brave, during winter. Wait for high tide and head in off the harbour slipway, when the fishing boats will be far out to sea and you can enjoy a calm pool to splash about in. Or, head to Porthleven beach to get your fix of the vast Atlantic ocean – lifeguards patrol here in the summer months, making it the safest choice.

Dine at Kota

Kota means ‘shellfish’ in Maori, and you may recognise head chef Jude, who is half Maori, half Chinese Malay, from his appearance on BBC’s Great British Menu. Kota serves up the finest of local produce with a signature Asian twist, and is the ultimate fine dining experience in the area. Expect tempura oysters, crispy monkfish and seasonal greens in seaweed butter, enjoyed with handpicked wine pairings. It’s a must visit.

Watch the sunset at Rinsey Head

Enjoy panoramic views of the Lizard and Land’s End and soak up a kaleidoscopic sunset at Rinsey Head, which you can reach in a circular walk along the coast path. This walk is beautiful at any time of day, but a post-dinner stroll will reward you with the most vivid pink and orange skies as the sun rolls behind the horizon. It’s a great dog walk, too, as long as you keep your pups on the lead when on cliff path.

Go crabbing off the harbour wall

Pick up a bucket and line and wait for high tide to do a spot of crabbing off the harbour wall. This is a fun activity for kids and adults alike, and you may choose to make it a competition of who can catch the biggest! When you’re done, safely return your crabs to the ocean and reward the family with an ice cream from one of the nearby parlours.

Keep an eye on our special offers page for the latest deals and discounts on Porthleven retreats.

Among the slippery rocks and swaying seaweed of Cornwall’s many coves and rock pools lie bright colour shows and surprising shimmers of pinks, yellows and greens. From cunningly disguised crabs and solar-powered slugs, to UV discoveries and night swims in a sparkling sea, we talked to rock-pooling expert Heather Buttivant about what to look out for…

The coastal waters of Cornwall are micro worlds of amazing creatures and plants in a collage of colour that isn’t always obvious, but can be a dazzling discovery for any intrepid beach explorer.

Image: Crantock, Cornwall by Hydro Motion Media

“I grew up on the north coast of Cornwall and spent a lot of my childhood on beaches,” says Heather. “I was always completely fascinated by the weirdness of that world, and by the colours. Collecting shells was a massive thing as a kid, and I’ve returned to it as an adult. It’s become my world again.”

While she isn’t a formally trained marine biologist, through courses and working alongside experts, Heather has developed an expert eye and brought this to her enthusiasm for rock pools. She posts about her discoveries at the Cornish Rock Pools website, and has written two books Rock Pool: Extraordinary Encounters Between the Tides, and Beach Explorer: 50 Things to See and Discover.

“We have many brightly coloured anemones, like the wonderful strawberry anemone, then there are yellow and orange cup corals, which are the jewels of the rock pools.”

“I wanted to share my excitement about all of this marine life with people who aren’t scientists,” she explains. “It seemed to be a gap; there was very little around that was designed to tell people about our fascinating marine life – especially the marine life we have around Cornwall.”

Colourful coral

Image: Scarlet and gold star coral (Balanonphyllia) by Hydro Motion Media

Striking colours can be uncovered just below the surface, from brightly coloured anemones – like “the wonderful strawberry anemone” – to yellow and orange cup corals, “the jewels of the rock pools”.

“We also have a massive variety of seaweeds that come in a huge range of colours, from reds to browns to greens,” she continues. “My favourite to show children is rainbow wrack; in the water it’s the most wonderful iridescent turquoise colour. But out of the water it just looks a dull green-brown.”

Shimmering swimmers

If you’re exploring deeper rockpools or have a mask and snorkel to hand, many species of fish can be found close to the shore. The corkwing wrasse builds its seaweed nest just offshore, while the young of the larger ballan wrasse – also sometimes seen in rock pools – are a bright emerald green.

Another fish you might catch sight of in shallow waters, pouting or bib, is a deep coppery colour with three or four vertical bands that shimmer in the light shining down through the water. They like mixed rock and sand habitats, as well as ship wrecks.

Image: Pouting (Trisopterus luscus) by Hydro Motion Media

They might not sound like the most appealing discovery, but unlike their garden-dwelling namesake, sea slugs actually take on an infinite variety of colours. They’re not easy to find, but if you’re lucky to discover one you may be surprised at these “tiny beacons of yellow, green, orange, purple or red” – “It can become an obsessive hunt,” says Heather.   

Like their fellow rockpool creatures, sea slugs are often coloured to match the seaweed, rocks or encrusting animals in their habitats – and will change colour as it goes, or after a meal. “The great grey sea slug feeds on anemones; after it’s eaten, it’ll turn the red or pink of the anemone it’s just eaten – and also retain some of its stinging cells, keeping them as a defence on its back,” Heather explains.

 “They just look like another rock covered in seaweed until they get up and run off.”

Image: Solar-powered sea slug (Elysia viridis) by Hydro Motion Media

Some species of crab also take to wearing their habitat, by attaching pieces of sea sponge to their shell and limbs or using little ‘Velcro-style’ hairs to drape themselves in seaweed. “They just look like another rock covered in seaweed until they get up and run off,” says Heather.

Night and day

A lot of sea creatures are more active at night, so a rock-pooling expedition by torchlight may reveal more than on a sunny beach afternoon – with an added sense of adventure to boot.

Along Cornwall’s south coast, it’s also possible – though rare – to see the bioluminescence (also known as sea sparkle and phosphorescence) created by planktonic algal blooms, shining out from the water. Nothing beats a night swim (stay safely within your depth) under the stars above, with the sparkling sea glinting between your fingertips as you stroke through the water below. These areas of phytoplankton are naturally occurring, generally in mid-late summer or early autumn, and are not harmful to the coastal environment.

 “Nothing beats a night swim under the stars above, with the sparkling sea glinting between your fingertips as you stroke through the water below.”

A far more common phenomenon revealed by an ultra violet (UV) light (if you happen to have one, or join an organised tour) is the fluorescence that specific marine life creates by re-emitting sunlight at a different wavelength. The snakelocks anemone shines neon green under UV light and some species of crab appear blue. 

Making discoveries

“Just take the time to go slowly, look closely at pretty much any rock pool and you’ll start to notice the animals there,” Heather recommends. “But bear in mind that these things are quite well hidden!”

These creatures are best observed in their natural environment, so resist the temptation to catch them in a bucket if you can – or at least make sure your bucket is full of seawater, and that you put them back in the same place you found them before you leave. Animals can also be easily injured, so avoid using nets if possible.

“Prawns and blennies will swim over to have a look if a camera is in the water, and it’s not that unusual to see two hermit crabs having a fight,” notes Heather. “These things are absolutely fascinating to watch.”

Image: Hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus) by Hydro Motion Media

One of the best ways to make discoveries is to join a tour. The Cornwall Wildlife Trust organises beach events throughout the year, and there are also local conservation groups running rock pool activities across Cornwall.

Find tips on Heather’s website, and pick up a copy of her books in bookshops around the county and online.

Looking to breathe new life into your home interiors? Cox & Cox create furniture and home décor designed to give you that refreshed feeling, transforming your space into a calming haven. 

We recently spoke to Creative and Product Director Dani Taylor about her top picks from the upcoming Autumn collection, and how you can make your home feel welcoming as the seasons change and you begin to spend more time indoors.

“Retreating indoors is an exciting shift that brings the opportunity for rewarding seasonal updates. As our homes are doing more but remain our retreat from the world, we look at evolving our style for multi-functional use-not changing it- because home is the welcome familiar as soon as the front door opens. Here’s my shortlist for versatile living, so that you always feel good arriving home, what ever the floorplan.”

Shop the Cox & Cox collection here.

Here’s Dani’s top picks:

NEW Amelie Chest of Drawers – £1795

This fantastic looking sideboard will work as you change rooms, or when you move–it suits a variety of uses. I imagine it in a compact hallway, affording ample surface for styling as well as essential storage-it can adapt into the living rooms or bedrooms when you grow as a family.

Brass Double Bulb Wall Light – £75

If you want to add a reading nook or study area into a room, then a successful way to mark the spot is with lighting. Our plug-in wall lights are a super easy way to be versatile with your space because they don’t need to be wired. 

Maroq Golden Rubber Doormat – £30

Alongside our classic door furniture, we now have an extensive range of doormats so that giving that first impression of your style couldn’t be easier-a simple but easy way to refresh your home for the season.

NEW Cane Webbing Armchair – £895

For multi-functional spaces to work well it’s good to clearly zone by function. This occasional chair works really well in an open plan space because its feature cane webbed back is made for being on show.

Linden Brass Full Length Mirror – £225

With a slender, antiqued brass frame and large mirrored surface, our statement full length mirror will make the perfect addition to your bedroom or hallway, making any small space feel instantly larger.

New Ada Dinnerware from £55

Autumn is one of my favourite seasons– I enjoy creating a cosy home that’s welcoming to guests, which is why it’s the right time to invest in dinnerware- the versatile Ada dinnerware will complement your pared-back cosy style in autumn and still look fresh in spring. Available by style in sets of four.

Browse the full Cox & Cox collection here.