Category: Uncategorised

 

There’s no better way to appreciate a sea view than dining beside it, creating an enriching experience as you taste the flavours that the coastline in front of you has produced. We have hand picked 10 seafront restaurants, where you can sample seafood caught in the nearest bay and soak up views of the rolling tides. 

Porthminster Kitchen, St Ives

This acclaimed beachside restaurant combines Cornish produce and global flavours in dishes showcasing the freshest seafood, garden grown produce and foraged coastal ingredients. Recently awarded a 2 Rosette award for culinary excellence, this is a go-to destination for the finest of Cornish cuisine.

The Colonial, Tolcarne beach

A slow paced, lavishly designed restaurant and bar positioned right on the sand of Tolcarne beach in Newquay, The Colonial is the perfect dinner spot for those looking to unwind and indulge. Their menu is inspired by the colourful flavours of the Caribbean, but you can expect seafood and traditional hearty dinners throughout the year. Wave watch on the terrace with an invigorating cocktail or settle by the open fire for a full three courses and wine.

Lewinnick Lodge, Fistral

Lewinnick is the ultimate coastal restaurant. Situated on Pentire headland, you can soak up sweeping vistas as you eat, the perfect viewing spot for striking sunsets. With a bar area, pool tables, fireplace, plush carpets and sofas, you can wind down with a glass of something bubbly before heading to the sleek and sophisticated restaurant room for a classically Cornish supper.

The Mariners, Rock

A chef’s take on pub grub, washed down with the finest of Cornish beer. This loved-by-locals pub overlooks the Camel Estuary and serves up the likes of crispy pollock hot dogs, Porthilly oysters and market fish of the day from Cornish waters.

The Fish House, Fistral

If you’re a seafood lover, this beachfront restaurant is your go to. Situated on Fistral beach, the Fish House is in a prime position for sunsets and dramatic surf. Sample the flavourful menu of Sri Lankan prawn curry and spiced monkfish before walking across the beach back to your retreat.

Gylly Beach Café, Falmouth

Gylly Beach Café sits right on the sand, where you can gaze out at the ships and sailboats dotted along the water. It serves hot food and drinks all day and evening long, so taste the chilli kick of panko breaded squid or the zest of fresh lemongrass seabass with the buzz of the beach in the background.

Ugly Butterfly, Carbis Bay

There’s no such thing as an ugly butterfly, in the same way as there is no such thing as food waste. This is the motto of Carbis Bay’s new sustainable restaurant, showcasing beautifully presented dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Offering an all-day dining experience, the Ugly Butterfly bar uses trims and offcuts from the ingredients used in the restaurant to create delicious drinks and bar snacks.

Outlaws New Road, Port Isaac

Nathan Outlaw is to Port Isaac as Rick Stein is to Padstow. For the ultimate fine dining experience, sample cured mackerel and spider crab at this harbourside eatery, before wandering the streets of Port Isaac under the moonlight.

The Beach Hut, Watergate Bay

One of Cornwall’s best beach-side hangouts, The Beach Hut welcomes surfers, families and even the dog. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, food is unfussy and tasty, the atmosphere laid-back, and all with a view of Watergate Bay’s two-mile stretch of beach out front. Perfect for sunset watching and sundowners.

The Sardine Factory, Looe

Dine overlooking harbour water and you’re guaranteed fish as fresh as they come. The Sardine Factory is a go-to restaurant for seafood lovers, and its sustainable fish dishes won the prestigious accolade of a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2020.

Charlie Walters, head chef of The Sardine Factory, is currently representing Cornwall competing on this year’s Masterchef: The Professionals.

Stay in a retreat near the best Cornish restaurants and enjoy a foodie trip to the coast.

What’s happening in Cornwall in October and November?

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.

Coastal walks

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.

Falmouth Oyster festival

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.

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.

Carlyon Bay beach guide

Summer days await at Carlyon Bay, an up-and-coming location which breathes a new life into the conventional beach day. With calm water and a tropical backdrop, this hub of activity has something for everyone. So, dive in and see what Carlyon Bay has to offer….

Browse our Carlyon Bay retreats to experience beach living at its best.

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

Theatre on the sand

Wildworks new show, I AM KEVIN, is coming to Carlyon Bay for two weeks, from Saturday 6 to Saturday 20 August. It’s entertainment, right here on the sand.

I AM KEVIN is an outdoor promenade show, directed by Mydd Pharo and created with the communities of Cornwall. It is suitable for ages 12+, perfect for a family day on the beach. Dark, humorous, fiery and honest… ‘I AM KEVIN’ is a provocation to rediscover the power and possibility that lies beneath the surface of us all. This summer, Wildworks invites you to let your imagination run wild on a journey of impossibility. It’s a bedtime story to set the world on fire.

Ensure to follow Wildworks on all their social media platforms to catch a glimpse of the show and stay updated on all things I Am Kevin.

Tickets start from £14. Book now at wildworks.org.uk.

Beach yoga

Where better to channel your inner peace than on the beach? Start your day with lungfuls of sea air and the sound of the waves, helping to clear your mind and energise your body. Every Saturday you can join Beach Yoga with Emma, just £10 per person with under 14’s half price. Emma runs a 60 minute restorative guided practice which will strengthen your muscles, stimulate your metabolism and increase serotonin levels. Each session is then followed by an optional sea swim.

Book with Emma here.

Image credit: Elm Yoga

Food pop ups

Every summer, Carlyon Bay hosts a vibrant pop up food festival, serving up the tastiest street food and fresh sea food. Sample world flavours and local vendors, from the Harvester Seafood Shack, Jasper’s Kitchen for stonebaked pizzas, and gourmet burgers. Best enjoyed in your hands, on the sand.

Keep up to date with what’s on here.

Discover North Cornwall and find out about Morwenstow, the often-forgotten area of Cornwall.

Image credit: Harvester Shack

Live music

To accompany your beach evenings is a busy schedule of live music throughout the summer. Enjoy a variety of bands, DJ nights and acoustic performances from local musicians, the perfect entertainment whilst you enjoy a chilled drink on the sand as the sun goes down. Find out more about what’s on here.

Jet skis

See the coastline from a new perspective and get your heart beating in the ocean spray. Cornwall Waverunner Sarafi’s mini jet ski safaris are an adrenalin-filled way of exploring the bay, with the chance of spotting sealife such as dolphins, sunfish and seals. You can choose to ride solo or share with a friend and head out with the guidance of an experienced instructors, who will show you the ropes of riding the jet skis and take you on the best routes round the shores. Just remember to hold on tight!

Waverunner mini jet ski safari

Swimming and snorkelling

Carlyon Bay is on the south coast, meaning it benefits from generally calm waters and minimal swell. This makes it the perfect spot for wild swimming and snorkelling, the perfect activities to get closer to nature and indulge your senses in the sea. We’d recommend dipping at first light, when the beach is quiet and the sky is still streaked with the pink and orange hues of sunrise. It’s beach bliss.

Read our blog on wild swimming here.

Find a retreat in Carlyon Bay and experience it for yourself.

Check out more of our locations and explore our Charlestown holiday properties.

Seascape sounds

A sonic postcard from Cornwall. The sounds of the sea, beach and cliff top captured during an idyllic morning at Godrevy, as we ventured out for a surf.

Can you spot these sounds?

Skylark flying in Cornwall

Skylark

Welcomed by swooping sand martins and the lilting trill of skylarks over the wild fields.

Sandy beach in Cornwall

Getting ready

Board waxed, wetsuit zipped and leash attached; inviting waves await…

Sandy beach in Cornwall

Crossing the river

The walk to the beach crosses the Red River as it flows towards the ocean.

Sandy beach in Cornwall

Sound of the surf

Time to greet the waves….

Looking out to Godrevy Lighthouse and the ocean beyond, the headland at Godrevy, near Hayle, is a wildlife haven – home to ground nesting birds, small mammals, rare invertebrates and spectacular coastal plants – while below lies an oceanic playground, all waiting to be explored.

 

 

Our new series, Staff pick of the month, asks members of the team about their favourite Beach Retreats property. This month we speak to Owner Services Co Ordinator, Sam Beverley. Sam lives in Newquay and loves swimming in the sea and occasionally trying her hand at surfing.

Her chosen retreat is Pilots Cottage, a Grade II listed traditional Cornish cottage which sleeps four in the heart of Mousehole.

What is it you like most about this property?

Its character and charm make it feel homely and familiar, whilst the modern décor and quirky layout make it feel special and exciting. 

What will be your favourite part of the day when staying at this retreat?

The dining area gives off hidden wine bar vibes and the sitting room has a log burner and beautiful exposed brick work, so I’d have to say enjoying an evening tipple in one of those spots, whilst re-capping the day’s adventures. 

What is it that you like about the local area?

Mousehole is equally as captivating in all seasons, from lovely coastal walks and fish and chips on the beach in summer and the spectacular Christmas lights in the winter.

What’s the nearest beach like and how far is the walk?

There are two small, safe local beaches but a short drive or long coast path wander will take you to some of the nicest, most secluded in Cornwall, including Marazion beach. 

Is there a particular restaurant in the area that you would choose to eat at?

2 Fore Street for fresh, local seafood with harbour views. The fish bouillabaisse special was one of the best things I’ve ever eaten!

Can you catch a good sunset or sunrise here?

Mousehole is on the south coast of Cornwall, meaning it gets great sunrises. If you’re willing to get up early enough to see one!

What would you say is a must-see or do in this area?

The Sea Salt & Sails Festival in summer or the famous Christmas lights in winter. Otherwise, a boat tour to soak up the stunning coastline and wildlife.

Pilots Cottage has availability for 2022, find out more here.

What to do in Porthcawl

Lowenna from the Marketing team and Chloe from the Reservations team recently left the Cornish coast and headed to south Wales to get the lay of the land at our latest beach location, Porthcawl.

Coming off junction 37 of the M4 we were almost instantly met with green landscapes and a sprawling coastline. Porthcawl, a small town on the south coast of Wales between Cardiff and Swansea, gives off a relaxed vibe after the bustle of the motorway, a picture-book image of a seaside town.

We drove along the coastal road, passing a vibrant seafront dotted with traditional seaside buildings, such as the 1920s Pavillion Theatre. Just five minutes further down the water’s edge, we reached our home for the night, our Beach Retreats apartment 71 The Rest. A delightful retreat set on the top floor of the Links development with views of Rest Bay, the space was inviting and calming from the moment we set foot through the door. You can find out more about 71 The Rest here.

After throwing open the balcony doors and resting in the sun with a much-needed cup of tea, we headed back out in the hunt for something to eat.

Our first stop along the way was Rest Bay, just two minutes’ walk from our retreat. This beach is a long stretch of rocky terrain which slopes down onto a sandy expanse with a swirling ocean. Here, you can walk along the Heritage coastal path which runs parallel to the shore or head onto the sand for a day of sunbathing. Porthcawl Surf School sits just above the beach and offers surf lessons and equipment hire, and the beach is known for its great waves which will please any budding surfer or watersports enthusiast.

Further along the coast to the right is Pink Bay, with an impressive pink marble-effect pebbly bank leading down onto flat sand edged by a rocky shoreline. Further away from the main town and therefore a quieter spot, on this beach you can take a solitary sea dip or simply pack a picnic and sit back on the sand.  

These two beaches back onto the Royal Porthcawl golf club, a world-renowned golf course and the number one in Wales.

Heading into town from here takes about 30 minutes by foot or is only a five-minute drive, with plenty of parking available in the public car park or in free spots on the street. Here, you’ll find the small spot of sand that is Porthcawl seafront, next to the harbour where you can see boats bobbing around on the water.

The seafront is also where you’ll find the main strip of restaurants and cafes, including the Cosy Corner Lounge, Dockside Bar and Grill, Beales Fish and Chip Restaurant and The Boathouse Fish bar.  Behind the RNLI lifeboat station, overlooking the harbour water, you’ll also find Bar & Kitchen Co, a great spot to tuck into anything from high quality steak and seafood to a simple burger and chips. This was where we picked for dinner, and it didn’t disappoint – my fish and chips were fresh and generously dished out whilst Chloe’s seafood linguine was equally as delightful.

From here, we headed back towards Rest Bay to catch the sunset, which sets directly over the horizon. Then we settled on the balcony with a glass of wine as the sea glowed under the darkening sky.

Our time in Wales was up, but if you’re staying for longer, there’s plenty more to see and do. Start your day bright and early the next morning and set out on a long coastal walk or short drive towards Sker Bay and Kenfig Nature Reserve, where you can spot some rare sights such as the Fen Orchid and wildlife such as seals, birds and even dolphins. On the way home, stop off at Nottage with its selection of country pubs, where you can sample a hearty lunch washed down with a local ale.

If you fancy exploring even further, hop back in the car for a day out towards the Mumbles and Gower, an area of natural beauty just off from the bustling city of Swansea.

Overall, this area of south Wales has something for everyone, whether you’re a nature lover, watersports enthusiast, keen golfer or simply craving some peace and quiet.

To see it yourself, stay in our Porthcawl retreat, 71 The Rest.

Senses in the studio

People standing on a beach with a surfboards.

We visited the Leach Pottery in St Ives to talk about using the senses when we create with clay and the connection this artisan studio has with its coastal location. Watch the film here…

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

A short walk from the seafront, tucked away among houses alongside the Stennack River lies the Leach Pottery, an international centre of creative clay work. Founded in 1920, the pottery has a pivotal role in the story of St Ives as a place of artistic endeavour.

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

We spoke to the pottery’s Ellen Love about the studio’s connection to the sea and the role the senses have when creating with clay.

From walks around the hallowed seaside studios to family workshops getting to grips with the wheel, treat your senses to a Leach Pottery visit.

Visiting Cornwall in June? Experience the vibrant Arts on the Beach festival at Watergate Bay, celebrating creativity and culture against the stunning coastal backdrop.

Wild Wine School | Q&A With Debbie Siobhan (Founder)

Whether you’re thirsty to discover more about wine, passionate about sustainability or in search of a new adventure, Wild Wine School has it all.

Experiences to submerge your senses and explore the story of wine, set against a backdrop of Cornwall’s natural beauty. We chat with Debbie Siobhan Warner, the founder of the school to find out more…

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

Image credit: Ingrid Pop

What were you doing before you founded Wild Wine School (WWS)?

I studied marine biology at university but by the time I’d finished my dissertation, I realised I didn’t want to be an academic, and some of the other career prospects, such as working for an oil company, really didn’t appeal to me. After moving back to London, I spent time in Cornwall and loved the idea of being back by the coast full-time, so I applied for a job at a Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall, formerly at Watergate Bay. A space came up last-minute on a Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 2 course and I absolutely loved it; I knew wine was what I wanted to do!

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

Learning about wine is like entering the rabbit hole; all I wanted to do was discover more about wine, how it’s made and where it’s from. I’d save all my tips from the restaurant to go to different wine regions and meet winemakers. I secured a position in the wine department at Fifteen, then I worked as a wine consultant and in sales for a wine wholesaler. It was all very fortuitous.

“There is an experience for everyone. I teach introductory courses that are perfect for curious consumers. We explore different wine regions, the main eight grape varieties and how to pair wine with food.”

Image credit: Ingrid Pop

What inspired you to begin WWS?

Most of my wine education was at the back of a restaurant or a college classroom, but my favourite experiences were out in vineyards – a classroom in the vines. We also studied very traditional wines, with little consideration for sustainability and the environment. I felt like there was a better way of doing it, where people are outside, learning about new, exciting wines.

Image credit: Ingrid Pop

Initially, I started with a supper club, Wild Wine Club. I’d work with chefs to design a menu to work with the wines I’d be showing; we’d have supper outside and I’d share everything I was learning about wines from all over the world. It felt amazing to be sharing this knowledge and guests kept asking how they could learn more so eventually I thought ‘hang on, I could develop this’. The rest is history.

What are the experiences you offer?

There is an experience for everyone. I teach introductory courses that are perfect for curious consumers. We explore different wine regions, the main eight grape varieties and how to pair wine with food.

There’s also an organic and biodynamic workshop focusing on wines made from sustainably and regeneratively farmed grapes. In the afternoon, we make a biodynamic preparation. It’s a bit wild and wonderful, but it’s fun and the wine is proven to taste better.

Image credit: Ingrid Pop

All of the experiences include lunch and wine tasting, working with local chefs to create the menus. For courses hosted at Trevibban Mill Vineyard, we have amazing charcuterie and cheese boards with homemade hummus by Tom, the son of owners’ Liz and Engin. For another, we team-up with Gorse Bakery in Newquay to serve a mushroom and brie wellington accompanied by their delicious sourdough and fresh salads.

What is the ethos behind the school?

I want Wild Wine School to challenge the way that wine education is taught, creating modern courses that look at how we can enjoy wine but also make better choices for our planet. So, the different ways of transporting wine, new formats beyond the glass bottle, and refill or preservation systems.

“I hope people feel inspired and confident to try wines out of their comfort zone.”

I think people can forget that wine is an agricultural product. It’s easy to forget about the farmer that made it, the horses that ploughed the ground, the weather conditions each season; there’s so much beyond what we see. Being outside helps people connect to this story behind the bottle.

Image credit: Ingrid Pop

Is it important for WWS to be in Cornwall?

Cornwall is the most amazing place. We have an incredible hospitality scene here with some of the top restaurants in the country. We’ve got this brilliant wine industry that’s still in its infancy and has exciting prospects bubbling on the horizon.

“One of the hardest elements to expanding your wine knowledge can be identifying and articulating the different flavours you’re tasting.”

Image credit: Ingrid Pop

There is also a blossoming regenerative farming scene here in Cornwall and experimental businesses such as New Dawn Traders who are challenging the way we transport food and drink around the world; it’s inspiring to see this push for positive change.

How do you want people to feel coming away from an experience at the school?

I hope people feel inspired and confident to try wines out of their comfort zone. I think one of the hardest elements of expanding your wine knowledge can be identifying and articulating the different flavours you’re tasting. So many people say ‘it’s familiar but I can’t quite put my finger on it.’ This is the first step to branching out, little by little. It’s not just about wine either, it can help you be mindful with everything you taste.

The wine industry is historically elitist and intimidating. Even when I joined, it felt like an old boys’ club. But that’s changing, there’s so many younger people opening up the space, making it more accessible and bringing in a wave of fresh air. I hope everyone who comes on one of our courses or workshops feels excited to learn more!

Indulge in coastal vibes with our shoreside-inspired drink recipes!


Credit Lewis Harrison Pinder

wildwineschool.co.uk

Find a retreat in one of our beach locations and sip wine by the ocean. Browse our special offers page to find the best deal.

A gift from us – Stein's at Home Christmas offer

We know how important food and drink is to the festive season. The tastes and aromas which are so unique to this time of year are central to some of our happiest holiday memories. This is why we are bringing the flavours of Cornwall to your doorstep, by gifting a Stein’s ‘Festive Celebration Menu’ box worth £120, when you book to stay with us this Christmas (booking must be made before December 7).

There’s nowhere better to spend Christmas than on the coast. See harbours lit with twinkling lights, watch stormy seas from a bubbling hot tub, and ramble along empty clifftops. Cornwall captures the natural beauty of the festive season, providing a chance for deep, restorative joy. But what really sets a Cornish Christmas apart is its coastal spin on traditional festive cuisine. Think fresh, sizzling seafood, foraged herbs and locally picked winter root veggies, washed down with your pick of mulled wine, locally brewed ale or gin from nearby distilleries.

Search Christmas holidays.

The box

Stein’s Festive Celebration Menu box will be delivered to your beach retreat. The box includes the highest quality of seafood, all pre-portioned for two and prepared in the style of Rick’s recipe. This is the ultimate at home dining experience, where all the hard work is done for you and you can simply tuck in and enjoy.

Each box comes with all of the necessary ingredients and simple cooking instructions to complete the dish, so that all you have to do is finish off the process and plate it up. When we say it’s easy, we mean it – just a sprinkle here and a grill there, and you’ll have a restaurant quality dinner ready at your own table.

All of our retreats have kitchens equipped with all the required cooking utensils and dining spaces where you can enjoy your dinner in style. So, sit back and make the most of your beach retreat, without having to miss out on that restaurant quality experience. Want to order more boxes? Speak to our reservations team about our unique Beach Retreats discount for guests.

What’s on the menu?

Think bigger than roast meat and gravy. This is supper, Cornish style, and this festive special box provides you with the freshest of seasonal flavours with a coastal twist. The four-course menu includes:

  • Tuna guacamole with spring onion, chilli and soy dressing
  • Langoustines with Pernod and tarragon
  • Brill with truffle butter and mashed potato
  • Spiced custard tart with Cornish clotted cream

With everything packed and kept fresh in food safe chill packs and insulated lined boxes, your Stein’s dinner will be delivered to your doorstep at the beginning of your stay.

Terms & Conditions 

  • One box per booking.
  • Offer only available for new Christmas bookings made before 7th of December 2021.
  • No cash alternative.
  • Boxes will be delivered direct to the holiday let around the 22nd/23rd December 2021.
  • Beach Retreats accept no responsibility for the contents of the boxes, any product defect should be reported to Rick Stein’s Restaurants directly.
  • Please follow safety guidance when cooking the contents.
  • Offer is non transferable if your booking is cancelled or postponed.

So if you’re looking for that ‘home away from home’ feel this Christmas, settle into one of our beach retreats and tuck into the taste of Cornwall, in chef’s kitchen style and with the utmost ease. Knives and forks at the ready.