Author: gloversure

Our top things to do in Cornwall this Autumn

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.

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

Browse our beach locations to find your perfect autumn stay. 

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.

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

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.

Interested in finding the best walks in Cornwall? Check out our blog on our favourite autumnal walks.

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.

hot chocolates

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.

Lost Gardens of Heligan

A dog’s holiday

More sandy expanses to choose from and quieter breaks to bounder into, autumn might just be the best time to bring your four-legged friend away for a break by the coast. Watch these beach-loving dogs making the most of the sea and sand…

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.

And as you can see, there’s no shortage of fun for sandy paws by the sea. Just remember to bring the lead and bags to clean up any toilet stops.

Explore recommended days out for your furry friend in our ‘A Good Lead‘ blog, ensuring tail-wagging adventures for you and your dog.

Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.

Read Out in the Wild for more on what to do if you encounter coastal wildlife when you’re on holiday with your pet.

Did your dog find a perfect patch of #coastalwonder here in Cornwall?

Check out our holiday properties in Mousehole to experience everything the area has to offer.

We’d love to hear any recommendations for where to walk, play catch and explore. Email us your recommendations so we can include them when we share some top spots for sea and sand loving dogs on course for the coast.

Showstopping hot chocolates in Cornwall

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 show stopping 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.

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

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.

hot chocolate held in hands

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.

hot chocolate on a table

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.

hot chocolate with marshmellows

Discover more of Cornwall and explore our Porthleven holiday properties.

Check out Cornwall’s best independent coffee spots, where local charm meets exceptional brews for a delightful coffee experience.

What to do in Bude, Cornwall

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.

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

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.

Experience unforgettable paddleboard days along the Cornish coast, where clear waters and stunning scenery offer the perfect adventure.

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.

Discover our Widemouth Bay holiday properties.

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. 

EWWines for summer time

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.

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

Summertime – 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!

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

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.

Discover the essence of Cornish cosiness with Klys Drinks, embodying the warmth and comfort of home in every sip.

What to See & do in Porthleven? | Full Guide

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.

Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.

Drink at The Ship Inn

This traditional, 17th-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.

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

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.

Explore our luxury Praa Sands holiday cottages in West Cornwall with Beach Retreats, offering stunning coastal views and serene retreats for a relaxing getaway, just a 15 minute drive from Porthleven.

Dogs love the seaside and Cornwall has plenty of it.

Dogs love the seaside – it’s a fact. And Cornwall has plenty of it, making it the perfect holiday destination for you and your pup.

But beyond the sandy beaches for your dog to run freely across, there’s so much more about Cornwall which dogs will love. If you’re wondering what to do with your dog in Cornwall, we’ve got you covered.

Make it not just a holiday for you, but your dog too, with our top reasons to bring your four-legged friend to Cornwall.

Their first run on the beach

The best dog walks are those with large, open spaces for running around. However, if you live in a city, you’ll likely not have any water for your pup to splash around in, let alone a sandy beach for your dog to enjoy.

The beach is a magical place for anyone, and this includes your dog – if you’ve ever watched your dog take its first steps on the beach, you’ll understand. They simply can’t get enough of the sand to roll about in, the waves to play with and the space to run across. Taking your dog for their first beach day, first sea swim and even first sunset is an experience to be had, as you watch their tails wag and eyes light up with joy. Find your favourite dog friendly beach and see it for yourself.

Beyond the beaches

Cornwall isn’t just beaches, though – it’s a full-on dog paradise. With endless woodlands, rural space, open fields and the entire South West coast path, there’s so many different terrains for you and your pup to explore. Just remember to keep your dog on their lead when walking the coast path and through fields where you may encounter wildlife, such as cows and sheep.

Dog friendly attractions

Cornwall is a very dog friendly county, and welcomes pups in many of its attractions. There is a laid back vibe here and this extends to dogs, with most cafes and pubs and some restaurants welcoming dogs. Some even have their own doggy menu for your pup to try! Here’s our favourite dog-friendly places to dine.

You can also bring your dog to many day trips around the county, such as various National Trust sites, the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan. Find more dog-friendly attractions to have the best time with your pup.

Discover all the ways dogs in Cornwall enjoy being in the sea.

Quality time

When you come on holiday to Cornwall, you take some time out to relax, be with loved ones and make memories. Why not share this precious time with your dog, too? There’s no need to leave them behind, especially during the out of season months when the weather is cooler, the coast is quieter, and many beaches remove their dog ban. Cool off at the beach, explore a garden or attraction together, and most importantly bond with your pup, giving them the time and attention they may miss during busy, working life!

Check out our locations and explore our St Agnes holiday cottages.

Pup-friendly properties

A self-catering holiday in Cornwall is perfect for a dog, with your own private space for them to roam freely, nap and relax after a busy day of playing fetch and chasing waves. Many of our retreats are dog friendly, meaning there’s no need to leave them in the kennels. We’ve plenty of properties which also have enclosed gardens for your dog to safely enjoy and outdoor showers, great for rinsing sandy paws. All of our retreats are also walking distance to the beach, making that morning dog walk easy.

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

Find your favourite dog friendly beaches by browsing our locations, and keep an eye on our special offers page for our best dog friendly Cornwall holiday deals.

Dog friendly attractions in Cornwall

Bringing your dog to the coast is great for all sorts of reasons, the obvious one being the beach – a pup paradise. However, there’s plenty more for you and your four-legged friend to see and do when staying by the sea. When you stay in one of our paw-friendly holiday lets, you can explore all sorts of dog-friendly attractions in Cornwall. From the Eden Project to National Trust gardens, here are some of our favourites.

Thinking about bringing your dog on holiday? Check out our dog-friendly holiday properties.

Trelissick, Feock

Home to extensive woodland and park trails nudging the River Fal, Trelissick is high on the list of great days out with dogs. With mile-upon-mile of rolling green, woodland trails and a sheltered beach for splashing around, there are plenty of walks to choose from – with a map in the car park so you can choose your terrain and how far you want to roam. Refuel with coffee and cake in the dog-friendly courtyard café, and have a nose in the arts and craft gallery. If you’re feeling energetic and want to explore further, hop on the King Harry Ferry and float over the Roseland Peninsula.

Check out what Falmouth has to offer by staying in one of our bespoke retreats in Falmouth.

Image credit: National Trust

Eden Project, St Austell

Since Cornwall’s biggest visitor attraction opened its doors to dogs, they can join you on adventures along miles of pathways around the tiered gardens, admire the iconic biomes (from the outside) and join you for treats in the undercover eating area. There are a few ground rules to follow – you will need to keep your dog on a lead, and with you, during your visit (you can’t just tether them to a tree and head inside the biomes). However, if you want to take your dog back to your vehicle for part of your visit, there are car parking spaces with a shelter for dogs, one with a water tap.

Image credit: Matt Jessop via Visit Cornwall

Trebah Garden, Helford Passage

Bound beneath canopies of sub-tropical foliage that tumble to the edge of the Helford Estuary, where there’s a divine sandy beach perfect for picnics, stone skimming and throwing sticks out into the calm waters for dogs to retrieve. Families with dogs will love this natural playground, and back at the top of the valley (through the bamboo jungle and the giant Gunnera passage), the Planters Café and picnic area welcomes dogs. There’s water bowls and complimentary poop bags too.

Train to St Ives

Dogs are welcome on one of the UK’s most scenic train journeys from St Erth to St Ives. During the short journey you won’t be able to peel your eyes from the panoramic seascapes, so make sure you seat yourself on the right hand side of the train on the way out to get the best views. Once you’ve done a twirl of St Ives and had a pasty and ice cream by the harbour, you can follow the South West Coast Path an easy mile back to Carbis Bay, before hopping back onboard the train to your starting point. Or, if you and your pup have the stamina, head west from St Ives and hike the six miles to Zennor, looking out for the legendary mermaid and finishing with a well-deserved pint in the Tinner’s Arms.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek

If you don’t mind keeping your dog on a lead, a day out at the Sea Life Trust’s seal sanctuary is a fascinating day out for families and wildlife lovers. Enjoy pretty walks along the Helford Estuary, pause for picnics with a view, and get up close to all sorts of animals including seals, otters, sea lions, penguins, ponies, goats and sheep. The main purpose of the sanctuary is to rehabilitate seals rescued around the Cornish coastline, and you can witness rescued seal pups dipping and diving their way to recovery, as well as learn what to do if you find a seal stranded on the beach.

Wheal Martyn Museum and Country Park, St Austell

The UK’s only China Clay museum isn’t only home to hands-on exhibits and audio-visual displays delving into Cornwall’s fascinating history. It’s also home to 26 acres of dog-friendly country park, with woodland walks, nature trails and Cornwall’s largest working waterwheel. Once the dog’s been walked and the kids have run off steam on the commando-style assault course, relax for a taste of the county’s local produce served in the Victorian remains of china clay setting tank.

Image credit: Wheal Martyn

Tintagel Castle, Tintagel

Bring your imagination and your dog (on a lead) across the new footbridge to the 13th century ruins of Tintagel Castle, perched on a wave-lashed granite promontory on Cornwall’s north coast. Once you’ve come face-to-face with a bronze sculpture inspired by the legend of King Arthur, it’s impossible not to get swept away by local myths that link Tintagel to his birth. Back on the beach you can hear your echo in Merlin’s Cave and tuck into locally sourced food and drink at the beach café, before following the footpath back to the Arthurian-themed village. If you want to stretch your legs further, strike out along the coast path to the rugged Trebarwith Strand beach.

If you need any more temptation to bring your pup to Cornwall, read our top dog-friendly restaurants.

To find a beachside retreat at your favourite dog friendly beach, browse our locations and keep an eye on our special offers page for the latest deals and discounts.

Natural glow

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.

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

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.”

Check out our other locations and other retreats across North 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.

Discover more of Cornwall with our favourite places to watch the ocean and go sea spotting.

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.

Style your home with Cox & Cox

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, whatever the floorplan.”

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

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.

Check out our locations and retreats across West Cornwall.

Discover six stunning spots to watch the sunrise in Cornwall, each offering panoramic views and unforgettable moments along the coast.