Category: Your holiday

Bringing our favourite Whistlefish artwork to life

Have you been to any of these Cornwall locations?

Chances are, you’ve stepped into one of our Beach Retreats and spotted a beautiful piece of artwork from Whistlefish. Whistlefish supports artists locally and nationally, handpicking a selection of their favourites in traditional, contemporary and modern artistic styles.

Below we will be sharing some of our favourite pieces, pairing them with our must do activities in the locations painted. If you like any of the artwork shown, click the photo to each print and head over to their online shop or visit one of their galleries across Cornwall and Devon.

How many of these locations have you explored?

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

Camel Estuary

We just love walking the coast path that follows the Camel Estuary. Start off in Rock (home to two of our luxury Beach Retreats) and walk around to Daymer Bay and onto Polzeath. For a truly unique experience, like no other, jump on the ferry that pulls into Rock Road, and sail over to the opposite side to the estuary to the picture perfect Padstow Harbour. Here you’ll find a wonderful collections of shops, galleries (including our go to Whistlefish store) restaurants and bars. Tuck into some fish and chips on the harbour wall, but be sure to watch out for those pesky seagulls.

Search all Beach Retreats near the Camel Estuary.

Camel Estuary – Whistlefish

 

Porthcurno

If we could show you what paradise looks like in Cornwall, this would be it. Porthcurno is located in west Cornwall, close to Land’s End and is an artists dream to paint. It’s azure blue waters, wild flowered clifftops and rock formations attract visitors all year round. Walk the clifftops over to Pedn Vounder and Treen, if you’re lucky you may even spot the wild ponies that roam here.

The famous Minack Theatre is located opposite the beach, perfectly carved into the cliffs. Take a seat in the cliff-side amphitheatre to watch one of their plays, a unique experience you’ll never forget.

Search all Beach Retreats near Porthcurno.

Cornwall Path – Rick Smith

Want to explore more of Cornwall? Have a look at our Sennen holiday properties.

Mother Ivey’s Bay

Soft powder sands, turquoise waters and the most stunning surroundings. Mother Ivey’s Bay is a quiet beach all year round, tucked away behind Trevose Head near Padstow, with the headland to the north and cliffs to the rear providing this beautiful beach with plenty of shelter from the wind. Parking is a mile away at Harlyn Bay, making this a little more difficult to get to, but if you have time, the coastal walk is breathtaking and having a beach to yourselves is certainly a reward for the walk.

Grab a photo of the lifeboat station that is located here.

Search Beach Retreats near Mother Ivey’s Bay.

Mother Ivey’s Bay – Whistlefish

 

Fistral beach

You should have all heard of the world famous Fistral beach in Newquay. Described as Cornwall’s surfing capital and home to some of the most popular surfing competitions in the world. Ramble along the coast path to neighbouring Little Fistral and home to where Newquay Activity Centre offer a fantastic selection of activities.

For some fun that involves the whole family, we recommend the Family Fistral Rangers, a unique exploration of Newquay’s incredible coastline, pitched to suit all ages. They combine the skills of surfing, bodyboarding, eco coasteering, rock pooling and beach safety on the stunning shores surrounding the Fistral coastline, to create a family adventure like no other. The coastal weather and sea state dictate the activities but our instructors are fully qualified in delivering super-fun sessions with embedded ocean safety, heritage and wildlife lessons.

Find out more on what Newquay Activity Centre have to offer.

Search all Beach Retreats near Fistral.

Fistral Beach – Whistlefish

 

Marazion

Oh sweet Marazion, home to the majestic St Michael’s Mount, our favourite National Trust attraction. Take the journey over to the unique tidal island and breathe in the sea air. Scented with springtime blossom or summer herbs, view the collection that includes puya, aloe, and agave rearing out of the bedrock, with succulents forming hot spots of suprise throughout the garden.

The castle itself has shades of the past in every room and new discoveries waiting around every corner, dig deep into the Mount’s history, experience a different kind of family home or simply let your imagination run wild.

Book tickets online ahead of your visit.

Search Beach Retreats near Marazion.

St Michael’s Mount – Simon Harmer

 

Watergate Bay

With two miles of golden, wave-lashed sands flanked by cliffs flecked with sea pinks and gorse, it’s little wonder that surfers, dog walkers and beach lovers flock here for the fusion of wild scenery, rolling waves and beachside restaurants.

A true haven on the edge of the UK’s surfing capital, Watergate Bay was once a hot spot for dedicated surfers awaiting the Atlantic swells. But in recent years it’s stepped up to cater for the well-heeled wannabe surf gang, who can hit the waves and return to the creature comforts of swanky beachside accommodation, and dine in some of the region’s foodie hotspots.

Here our go to activity is to dine at Emily Scott Food, watch the waves roll in and grab an after dinner cocktail at the iconic Beach Hut.

View our Watergate Bay Beach Retreats.

Watergate Bay – Whistlefish

 

Wheal Coates Mine

For a real Cornish experience we highly recommend a visit to Wheal Coates Mine in St Agnes. Located on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, this is the most photographed former tin mine in Cornwall. Park at Chapel Porth Beach car park and step onto the coast path following the ebb & flow of the ocean. If you have time, pack up a picnic and perch in front of the mine with a traditional Cornish pasty or a cream tea (jam first of course).

Love ice cream? The beach below is famous for its ‘Hedgehog ice cream’. Enjoy a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, with a large dollop of clotted cream rolled in caramelised hazelnuts or fudge. Sounds delicious right?

View our St Agnes Beach Retreats.

A Sunny Day at Wheal Coates – Georgie Harrison

Capture Cornwall’s beauty with our guide to the most Instagrammable locations!

View the full collection of Beach Retreats in Cornwall.

To see more artwork from Whistlefish visit their online shop. 

Spring Gardens in Cornwall

trebah gardens 1

Cornwall is home to an abundance of garden wonderlands thriving with sub-tropical species – and spring is a great season to explore them. Picnic in carpets of bluebells, tunnel through bamboo jungles, and play hide and seek in magical woodlands. These are our top six spring gardens in Cornwall.

Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.

Trebah Garden, Mawnan Smith

This sub-tropical garden tumbling down to the banks of the Helford River is one of our favourite destinations for a family day out – and dogs can come, too. Wend your way through magnolias and rhododendrons bursting into bloom, tunnel through bamboo jungles and giant gunnera, and emerge on a divine sandy beach where you can order a mug of tea from the Boathouse Café and skim pebbles to your heart’s content.

More info: Open daily from 10:00. Dogs welcome.
trebahgarden.co.uk

Trelissick, Feock

Whether it’s still cool and blustery, or a blue-sky day with wall-to-wall sunshine, Trelissick’s stunning 300-acre estate is the perfect place for a springtime excursion. Wander through woodland along the banks of the River Fal, climb magnificent beech trees and explore the gardens, then take afternoon tea in the cobbled courtyard, where you can nose around the gallery and second-hand bookshop. Ramp up the adventure by arriving by ferry from Falmouth or Truro, or why not hop aboard the King Harry Ferry and head on to explore the verdant Roseland Peninsula?

More info: Open daily from. Dogs welcome on the woodland trails, but not in the gardens.
nationaltrust.org.uk/trelissick

St Michael’s Mount, Marazion

Once home of a legendary giant, part of a pilgrimage route and an all-round enchanting spot to castaway to a fairy-tale castle, St Michael’s Mount is also home to stunning terraced gardens, where exotic plants cling to steep granite cliffs. Stand high in the castle turrets and look down upon stonework and lawns bursting with colour, or follow the trails through flower-lined paths beaten by the salty breeze. More info: The gardens are open from April to September; there are I Spy cards for children, and tours are available.

stmichaelsmount.co.uk

Fancy staying in Marazion, discover our Marazion holiday properties.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Austell

As we step into springtime, these ancient woodlands, water meadows and productive gardens burst into colour and scent. Daffodils and snowdrops line the paths, beneath tree ferns, banana palms and gigantic rhubarb plants. This historic sleeping beauty was re-awakened from the brambles in 1990 and is now Europe’s largest garden restoration project, with family-friendly trails, farm animals, adventure play areas and secret hides where you can spy on the wildlife.

More info: Open daily, except Christmas day.
heligan.com

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, nr Penzance

Squirrelled away in a lush landscape close to Mounts Bay, art and nature merge seamlessly at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens. Climb trees, wander through woodland, and nature’s wonderland through a series of art installations including a camera obscura and a series of contemporary sculptures including a Minotaur and a brick throne overlooking St Michael’s Mount. Amongst a series of exhibitions and creative workshops held in the grounds and gallery, this spring you can catch Cousin Jack’s Theatre Company’s performance of Percy Pengelly and the Wibble Wobble. What with a kitchen serving scrumptious seasonal delights, a gift shop and nursery, it makes a great day out for the whole family.

More info: Open daily from February.
tremenheere.co.uk

Lanhydrock, nr Bodmin

One of the most magical times of year to visit Lanhydrock is during spring, when the woodlands of this sprawling country estate are carpeted with bluebells. Explore a labyrinth of footpaths winding through 900-acres of countryside, along the banks of burbling stream and into landscaped gardens where the rhododendrons and magnolias are coming into flower. Step into history in the Victorian manor house, take part in a range of family activities and freewheel along the bike trails – from easy-going family routes to demanding woodland tracks.

Lanhydrock gardens, nr Bodmin

More info: Open daily – see website for times and details.
nationaltrust.org.uk/lanhydrock

 

Discover easter adventures in Cornwall with our guide to seven must-do activities, promising fun-filled experiences for the whole family.

Search Beach Retreats Holidays.

Beach Retreats Top 2019 Instagram moments

As we say goodbye to 2019, we look back at some of our most memorable Instagram moments from the team at Beach Retreats, past guests, bloggers and photographers using #beachretreats. We hope to welcome you all back in 2019 for another memorable stay.

Follow us on Instagram to see all of our 2019 moments.

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

Tintagel Castle in north Cornwall just got better with their brand new footbridge, recreating the historic crossing from the mainland to the headland. Would you brave the drop?

We enjoyed a day in sunny St Ives earlier this year, walking the coast path past its picture-perfect beaches. Look out for our brand new property nearby joining in 2020, 4 Godrevy Court in Carbis Bay.

It’s no surprise that Fistral Beach is one of our favourite go to sunset locations. Pack a picnic and watch with your loved one on the headland, or dine alfresco at The Stable, Fish House or Fistral Beach Bar.

Newly decorated for 2018, The Penthouse at Coast (sleeps 6) offers fantastic sea views, with the golden sands of Porth beach as its back garden. Can you imagine relaxing on this balcony watching the world go by?

Look out for our brand new film in 2020, where we showcase the beautiful harbour town of Porthleven. Home to our Tom’s Cottage, guests can enjoy amazing surf here and dine at Kota Kai or Rick Stein Porthleven.

Another photo taken while we were filming at Porthleven earlier this year. Look over the wall above the beach and you’ll often be greeted to calm and crystal clear waters, perfect for a morning swim, kayak or SUP.

 

Ramble along Treen Cliffs and  you’ll be greeted by some beautiful wild horses (and very friendly). We enjoyed a spot of lunch here while overlooking the insta famous Pedn Vounder and Porthcurno beach in west Cornwall.

From Treen cliffs to Porthcurno. Here the water is often a Caribbean blue with pristine white sand, making it a popular choice for photographers in the summer months.  We recommend a visit during autumn or spring.

Quite possibly the best sunset we witnessed in 2019, here’s Mawgan Porth and our friend Pete from King Surf Surf School. We enjoyed a day filming and were treated to this at the end of the day. See our range of family properties.

Instagram loved our sunset taken above overlooking the brand new Dunes development on Perranporth beach in north Cornwall. All our properties here come with private balconies perfect for those all important sundowners.

 

A brand new location coming to the Beach Retreats portfolio in 2020. Duporth is a private beach located close to the Poldark famous Charlestown Harbour and Carlyon Bay. Guests staying here will have a private key for beach access.

Skyline is one of our top properties, popular with large families with its short walk to the beach, large garden, games room, private balcony with ocean views and log burner for cosy winter nights. What more could you ask for?

Known as the home of Doc Martin, Port Isaac is always making hearts swoon with its old white washed fishermen cottages, picturesque harbour and towering cliffs. We recommend walking to nearby Port Gavern.

Our followers loved the idea of traffic-free coastal escapism at its finest, while cosying up in this perfect little cabin clinging to the cliff above Whitsand Bay. Could you see yourself waking up here in 2020?

There’s something charmingly simplistic about Praa Sands. A long stretch of white beach with a cafe, surf school and a classic seaside shop selling buckets and spades. Our guests loved hearing about it on Instagram.

Pedn Vounder on a normal day gets heads turning, but we absolutely loved (and so did you) this perfect sunset shot taken by Stephen Kiley on Instagram. So much so, this post reached nearly 24,000 Instagram users!

Chapel Porth beach is a short drive from our St Agnes properties. Famous for its hedgehog ice creams, this is a popular location for local surfers. Their famous ice cream comes with clotted cream and chocolate and nut sprinkles.

Take a look and book our self-catering properties at Porthtowan, or talk to a member of our team on 01637 861 005.

It’s impossible to name just one thing, the hot tub, the view, the five acre garden, the incredible sense of space, the impressive design. Everything about this property is inspiring and that’s why you all loved it so much.

Capture Cornwall’s beauty with our guide to the most Instagrammable locations!

 

Follow us on Instagram for inspiration on things to see and do in Cornwall in 2019.

Discover South East Cornwall

Once referred to as Cornwall’s forgotten corner, South East Cornwall is a place steeped in beguiling beauty and legends of smugglers…

Far removed from the wild, Atlantic-lashed beaches of the surfy North Coast, here beach life beats to the pace of calmer seas. And whether you go rock pooling on Downderry, fly a kite on Rame Head or hop aboard a boat cruise to Plymouth, you’ll discover that any trip here is truly unforgettable.

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

Here are six things we love doing in South East Cornwall:

Walk from Cawsand to Whitsand Bay

Step straight out of our waterfront Beach Retreat onto Cawsand Beach, dip your toes in the sea, and then strike out along the South West Coast Path. It’s an easy three miles through magical woodland to Penlee Point and onto the ancient chapel on Rame Head, where you’ll often encounter wild ponies. From here soak up coastal views as far as the Lizard Peninsula, some 50 miles away, and then push on another couple of miles around the headland to the golden stretch of Whitsand Bay.

Walk the South West Coast Path.

Hop aboard the Looe Valley Rail Ale Trail

Take a seat aboard one of Devon and Cornwall’s Great Scenic Railways, which hugs the river as it wends through a wooded valley from the market town of Liskeard to the seaside town of Looe. Make the most of the journey – and the scenery – by stopping off to sample some of the region’s finest ales in a series of country inns. If you collect stamps from all nine watering holes on the route, you can claim a free Rail Ale Trail t-shirt.

Explore Cornwall by train.

Catch the Ferry from Cawsand to Plymouth

Stay in our stylish Beach Retreat on Cawsand Bay and it’s easy to mix barefoot beach life with the buzz of city living. Step out of your stylish abode onto a quaint smuggler’s cove, from where you can hop on the foot-passenger ferry to Plymouth’s lively waterfont Barbican. Once you’ve had your fill of shopping, sightseeing and dining in this maritime hub, hop back aboard The Western Maid and castaway to the sandy shores of Cawsand.

Enjoy a cruise from Cawsand.

Take a boat cruise from Looe

Walk the banjo pier, go crabbing off the harbour wall or hop on a boat trip from the harbour – you’re spoilt for choice for what to do in the seaside town of Looe. Veritable nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on a trip to Looe Island Nature Reserve with Cornwall Wildlife Trust (Easter–October), during which you’ll learn about the unique wildlife habitats and have time to take a self-guided walk around the island. However, the best way to witness the wonders of the marine world and the wildlife around the island is on a 45-minute ride aboard the Boatzer glass-bottomed boat.

Go rock pooling on Downderry Beach

A long stretch of sand and shingle backed by staggering sea cliffs, Downderry is an excellent spot for rock pooling and also home to the stunning beach house Far Horizon. Stare out to sea from an old sea captain’s house, Far Horizon, while you wait for the tide to ebb, then pad along the shoreline to Downderry, scouring the rock pools for the ocean’s bounty on the way. Keep an eye on the tides if you want to walk back along the sand, and be aware that you might feel a little over-dressed when you reach the secluded eastern end of the beach where naturists like to hang out.

Take a look around Far Horizon.

Go surfing on Whitsand Bay

Although the south coast isn’t as well known as the north coast for its surf, when conditions prevail there are a few decent waves to be found along this more sheltered coastline. Just a stone’s throw from Looe’s flat-water beaches, the surf wraps around the rugged tip of the Rame Peninsula and hits Whitsand Bay’s four miles of golden sands. So when you stay in one of our Beach Retreats overlooking Whitsand Bay, when the surf’s up you can hit the waves under the wing of expert instructors. If the waves aren’t working, you can always take plunge on a thrilling coasteering trip instead.

Find out about surf lessons.

Check out our other locations and other retreats across South Cornwall.

Take a look at our favourite ‘must sea’ retreats and explore our other holiday lets.

Beach Retreats Top 2018 Instagram moments

As we say goodbye to 2018, we look back at some of our most memorable Instagram moments from the team at Beach Retreats, past guests, bloggers and photographers using #beachretreats. We hope to welcome you all back in 2019 for another unforgettable stay.

Want to stay in a luxury holiday house with a view of the sea? Check out our cottages with sea views.

 

Sunsets don’t get much better than this! With low clouds, fiery colours and a water reflection, this became one of our top posts in 2018. Thank you to @edgeofthemap_uk for sharing this fantastic shot of Newquay with us.

Remember the arrival of the Beast from the East? Well here it is in March down at Lusty Glaze beach in Newquay. The untouched snow and its twinkling lights made this image by @mikesearlephoto a firm favourite.

Known as one of Cornwall’s most ‘Instagrammable’ locations, hundreds flocked to this beach throughout 2018. Pedn Vounder is a known nudist beach, and visitors need to climb down the cliff to reach its clear water and white sand.

Newly decorated for 2018, The Penthouse at Coast (sleeps 6) offers fantastic sea views, with the golden sands of Porth beach as its back garden. Can you imagine relaxing on this balcony watching the world go by?

Have you experienced a Porthcothan sunset? North Cornwall really knows how to put on a display. Thank you to @asugarfreeblonde for capturing this magical moment with her partner in July. We have three amazing properties nearby.

Because dogs love Cornwall too! Barney loves to run around on Mawgan Porth beach when staying with us. His owners @kick_back_times said he didn’t want to leave. This beach is dog-friendly all year round.

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

 

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream. We took this snap while visiting the new Dunes development in Perranporth. Be sure to head to the Pavilion Ice Cream Parlour when holidaying here.

Back in October, the sea at Mawgan Porth was looking like one big hot tub. @kingsurf Surf School got up bright and early to capture this shot and its candy floss skies. This is a great spot for those wanting to learn to surf in 2019.

Now here’s something we didn’t expect to see in February. As the water was cascading down the cliffs at Watergate Bay, it was freezing into icicles. We hope to see this again in 2019 for more memorable moments.

We visited Pedn Vounder beach in July, located next door to the more popular Porthcurno beach and Minack Theatre. Guests climb down part of the cliff to reach it, but once you’re there you’ll feel like you’ve reached the Caribbean.

 

Ride the wave of flavour with our top picks for the best surf cafes in Cornwall!

 

We’re sure you’ll all recognise this iconic beach – Fistral. Known for its fantastic surf, its great collection of restaurants and fabulous walks on its doorstep. This is one of our most popular holiday locations, join us here in 2019.

On the Summer Solstice, we broke the record for most visited Cornish beaches in one day. Here’s a snap from our final location at Crooklets beach, the 47th beach we visited that day to raise money for the South West Coast Path.

We love it when our guests share their holiday memories with us. Here is a Watergate Bay sunset from July, snapped by @paula1773. Use #beachretreats if you have some of your own to share, for your chance to be featured.

New for 2018, Ferrypoint is a coastal house in Rock, located opposite the Camel Estuary with superb views over the river and towards Padstow. Sit back and relax in 2019 on this balcony with family and friends.

We do love an aerial view and @aerialcornwall do it so well! Here’s the clear waters of Fistral beach in north Cornwall, perfectly photographed with a kayaker in July. Choose from many watersports to try here in 2019.

Walk the coast path from one of our Rock properties and find yourself here at Daymer Bay. We walked the South West Coast Path in June when we were treated to glorious sunshine and perfect water conditions for swimming and stand up paddle boarding.

Chapel Porth beach is a short drive from our St Agnes properties. Famous for its hedgehog ice creams, this is a popular location for local surfers and families. Their famous ice cream comes with Cornish clotted cream and chocolate and nut sprinkles. Sounds good right?

One of our most recent photos, we were up bright and early to catch the sunrise over Newquay harbour in November. Guests staying at one of our Fistral properties can walk here in just a few minutes and watch the bobbing boats and fishermen bring in their daily catch.

Follow us on Instagram for inspiration on things to see and do in Cornwall in 2019.

Swim and Dine offer

Staying in and around Watergate Bay? Swim & Dine combines two of the best things at the Bay; the hotel’s Swim Club facilities and dinner at Zacry’s. Here’s all you need to know about this special offer.

The offer

Book a later table at Zacry’s, Watergate Bay Hotel’s new restaurant which combines big brassy American-inspired flavours with fresh local produce, and spend some quality time in the Hotel’s Swim Club beforehand. From £36.50 per person for a three-course meal in Zacry’s.

Swim Club facilities

– Below the hubbub of Watergate Bay Hotel is Swim Club, a secluded area designed for being active and kicking back and relaxing:
– 25m sea-view infinity swimming pool
– Outdoor Canadian hot tub
– Café-bar
– Cardio room with Concept2 rowing machine, SkiERG, matrix hybrid cross trainers, running machines and fitness bikes
– Treatment rooms, plus a manicure and pedicure room. Treatments can also be booked up until 7pm, take a look at the treatment list.
– Stylish interior-designed spaces to find your own space to chill out

Zacry’s

Zacry’s style combines a classic brasserie with Cornish local produce. Executive chef Neil Haydock also draws on international influences, particularly his passion for contemporary American cuisine. There’s Fiorentina steak cooked on the indoor charcoal oven, grilled plaice on the bone and spiced venison.

How to get the Swim and Dine offer

Book your later at Zacry’s from 8pm onwards quoting Swim and Dine. You’ll then be able to visit Swim Club from 6pm on the day of dining. Treatments can also be booked up until 7pm, take a look at the treatment list. Swim and Dine costs from £36.50 per person for a three-course meal in Zacry’s.

Read more online or to book your table at Zacry’s please contact Watergate Bay Hotel’s reservations team on 01637 861231.

Cornish Saints

Our 17 Village properties at Watergate Bay are each named after a Cornish saint and place name – except one… We trace their names and learn some Cornish geography and history along the way.

Explore seaside dining at its finest with Beach Retreats’ curated list of top 5 restaurants in Watergate Bay.

Cornwall is often referred to as the land of saints. It’s no surprise then that many Cornish place names derive their name from the saints who went on to found churches here and in other Celtic lands such as Brittany in France. Let’s meet some of them.

Visiting Cornwall for a workcation? Have a look at our holiday lets perfect for extended stays and working.

St. Mawes

The fishing town of St Mawes on Cornwall’s south coast is thought to have taken its name from the Celtic Saint Maudez. He is believed to have settled in Brittany where he founded a monastery on the Island of Saint-Maudez with his two disciples, Saint Budoc and Saint Tudy, also Cornish place names.

St. Breock

St Brieuc became the first abbot of Saint-Brieuc in Brittany in the fifth century. Churches in England, Ireland, and Scotland are dedicated to this early Celtic saint, including the parish church of St Breock in Cornwall, just west of Wadebridge.

St. Minver

The village of St Miniver, inland from Rock on the north Cornish coast, centres upon St Menefreda’s Church – the origin of the present day name Saint Miniver who was one of 24 children of St Brychan, a fourth-century Welsh saint and king.

St. Winnow

The stunning isolated church of St Winnow overlooks the River Fowey. It is named after Saint Winnoc or Saint Winwaloe.

St. Endellion

Travel four miles north of Wadebridge and you’ll come across the pretty village of St Endellion near Port Isaac. It takes its name from Saint Edelienta, another child of King Brycha and sibling of St Miniver. Today, Saint Endellion Church brings together musicians from all over the world for superb festivals at Easter and Summer.

St. Blazey

The small town on Cornwall’s south coast takes its name from Armenian Saint Blaise. The Eden Project is close by.

St. Issey

You’ll find St Issey, named after the Saint Yse or Ida, just outside of Padstow. Yet another child of St Bruchan.

St. Merryn

Located between Mawgan Porth and Padstow, Saint Merryn is disputed to be named after a Welsh priest or monk named Maraunus or Maruan. Either way, it has seven beautiful bays nearby: Porthcothnan, Treyarnon Bay, Constantine Bay, Booby’s Bay, Mother Ivey’s Bay, Harlyn Bay and Trevone Bay.

St. Breward

On the western side of Bodmin Moor is the village of St Breward, deriving from English Saint Branwalader. He also gives his name to Saint Brelade in Jersey.

St. Erney

The village of Saint Erney in between St Germans and Saltash in south east Cornwall is thought to be dedicated to St Ternius, Terney or Erney. Widemouth Bay is nearby, as is the Port Eliot Festival.

St. Agnes

The original name of St Agnes was ‘Brynick’, a Cornish word meaning pointed hill, thought to be St Agnes Beacon. Officially named after the female Roman martyr Saint Agnes, you’ll find four unique beaches close by: Trevaunance Cove, Trevallas Porth, Chapel Porth and Porthtowan.

St. Ives

Named after the arrival of the Irish princess Saint Ia, today Saint Ives is well known for its pretty cobbled streets, fishing harbour and artistic community.

St. Mabyn

The Cornish female Saint Mabena gave name to this small village east of Wadebridge.

St. Buryan

Situated five miles west of Penzance, it is named after the Irish Saint Buriana. The picturesque coves of Lamorna and Porthcurno, home to the Minack Theatre, are a short drive away.

St. Levan

Saint Levan, a small hamlet situated near Porthcurno in west Cornwall, was probably named after Selevan, a Celtic form Solomon). The pretty coves of Porthchapel and Porthgwarra are close by.

St. Mawgan

The origin of the name St. Mawgan is unclear. Mawgan and Meugan are both place names in Cornwall (St. Mawgan is just up the road from Watergate Bay) and Brittany, and Meugan in Wales. It is believed they refer to one or two saints from the fifth or sixth century.

St. Denzel

The odd one out! Denzel is the only village property not named after a Cornish saint but we love it all the same.

Explore and book your holiday at The Village, Watergate Bay.

 

Want to explore our holiday lets in Newquay? Have a look at our luxury holiday properties in Newquay.

Eating out in Widemouth Bay | Places to Eat

Widemouth Bay may feel like a wild and remote beach retreat, and in many ways it is. But from beach cafes to Italian-inspired fare, it packs in plenty of places to dine. Read our ultimate guide to eating out in Widemouth Bay.

Visiting Cornwall for a workcation? Have a look at our holiday lets perfect for extended stays and working.

Black Rock Café

Named after the iconic rock jutting out of the sea at the south end of Widemouth, Black Rock Café serves up a brilliant breakfast and waffles, as well as lunches and cream teas. The three generation Café is also licensed with outdoor seating and is home to Rocky the parrot.

Trelawny Tearoom and surf hire

A delicious selection of homemade cakes – sometimes slightly wonky, exactly how they should be. They also serve scrummy breakfast baps, perfect after an early morning surf, and a good old cream teas with Rodda’s Clotted Cream.

www.trelawnytearoom.com

Widemouth Bay Café

A long firm favourite located in the middle-to-northern-end of the beach. This is your spot for loaded hot chocolates, hot pasties and a good cup of coffee. Dogs are welcome.

The Beach House

Restaurant, bar and takeaway, The Beach House lies at the northern end of Widemouth with plenty of outdoor and indoor seating overlooking the Bay. There’s everything from Sri Lankan spider crab curry to Asian pork belly and Sunday roasts, and when the weather’s good, cocktail bar in the dunes.

www.beachhousewidemouth.co.uk

Widemouth Manor

On the hairpin bend before you descend into Widemouth from the Atlantic Highway is Widemouth Manor. The menu offers a mix of classics from fish and chips and mussels to ever changing specials and tempting tapas. Open for lunch and dinner.

www.widemouthmanor.co.uk

The Bay View

A popular pub-come-restaurant serving up big burgers, steaks, salads and more. Kids will love the outdoor play area.

www.bayviewinn.co.uk

Elements

Situated high on the clifftop between Bude and Widemouth, Elements serves up an Italian inspired menu of stone-baked pizzas, pasta, steak and salads with a contemporary interior and stunning views. Save room for their gelato menu afterwards.

www.elements-life.co.uk

The Weir Restaurant and Bistro

Technically not in Widemouth but only a 5 minute drive away in Marhamchurch along the Altantic Highway, we just had to include The Weir – a coffee house, bistro and wildlife centre. Overlooking the lake and along the Bude Cycle Route, The weir combines fresh food and cakes with plenty for kids to see, do and explore.

www.weir-restaurant-bude.co.uk

Take a look at our properties in Widemouth Bay and book your Beach Retreat today. Keep an eye out for deals on our special offers page, or browse our other beach locations to explore further.

Looking at other locations in Cornwall? Explore the enchanting village of Boscastle in North Cornwall with Beach Retreats.

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

Swim, relax & dine offers

Forget chocolate eggs, here’s an extra special treat that will last way beyond Easter, allowing you to enjoy some of Watergate Bay’s finest restaurants alongside the Watergate Bay Hotel’s Swim Club facilities.

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Far away from the hubbub of daily life lies Watergate Bay Hotel’s Swim Club – a secluded area designed for kicking back or taking time for some active relaxation. And as it practically laps against some outstanding places to dine, these two offers are too good to refuse.

Zacry's Watergate Bay

Swim and dine

Experience the calm that is Swim Club and enjoy a later table at Zacry’s – the new restaurant at Watergate Bay which combines brasserie-style eating with contemporary American attitude. Work up an appetite for dinner, or take things a little slower, it’s up to you.

– Use of the Swim Club facilities from 6pm
– 25m sea-view infinity swimming pool
– Outdoor Canadian hot tub
– Cardio room
– Ocean Room with fire and cafe bar
– Dinner at Zacry’s from 8pm onwards

The price is included with the cost of your dinner.

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Day Membership

If you feel like you need to take some time out, this is the offer for you. Day Membership allows you to enjoy Swim Club, a 60 minute treatment and a two-course lunch at The Beach Hut or The Living Space. The offer includes:

– 25m sea-view infinity swimming pool
– Cliff terraces with hot tub
– Sea-view manicure & pedicure snug
– Cardio room
– Ocean Room with fire and cafe bar
– 60 minute treatment
– Two course lunch in The Beach Hut or The Living Space

The price is £80, or upgrade to a 90 minute treatment for £100.

To book Swim and Dine, please contact Watergate Bay Hotel’s reservations team on 01637 860543 or email [email protected]

To book your Day Membership, please contact Watergate Bay Hotel’s Swim Club on 01637 861237 or email [email protected]

Swim Club | Day membership at Watergate Bay

If all the excitement of Christmas and New Year has left you feeling a little weary, then a bit of ‘you time’ at Watergate Bay Hotel’s Swim Club could be just the ticket.

Fancy staying in a holiday retreat with a swimming pool? Check out our cottages with a swimming pool for a relaxing getaway.

Watergate Bay Hotel, swimming pool.
Winter day membership for Watergate Bay Hotel’s Swim Club allows non-guests to experience the award-winning secluded surroundings to do as little or as much as they want.

Over selected dates this winter, you’ll have access to all of Swim Club’s facilities, the choice between a two course lunch in The Beach Hut or The Living Space and a 60 minute treatment all for £80. Treatments for 90 minutes are also available for £100.

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

Swim Club includes:

  • 25m infinity swimming pool
  • Cliff terraces with hot tub
  • A 60 minute treatment in one of our treatment rooms
  • Sea-view manicure & pedicure snug
  • Cardio room
  • Studio
  • Café-bar
  • Ocean room

Winter day membership dates

Available from:

  • Monday 3 November to Friday 19 December*
  • Monday 19 January to Friday 13 February*
  • Monday 23 February to Friday 27 March*

*excluding weekends and only available to over 18’s

To book your day or to buy gift vouchers, please contact Swim Club on 01637 861237 or email [email protected]

For more information, visit www.watergatebay.co.uk/swim-club/membership/

Explore sensory swims along the Cornish coast, where each dip offers a refreshing and rejuvenating experience amidst stunning natural landscapes.