Things to do in St.Ives

Posted on 25/09/2014 by Milly

While my friends jetted off in the school holidays to exciting international destinations my family drove to Cornwall, it seemed like an unfair substitution. Now, years later, I can truly appreciate this amazing county, and particularly take advantage of its close proximity to London. Serene sunny beaches, stunning sights, charming pubs, long countryside walks and a carefree lifestyle, Cornwall is a blissful destination for a refreshing minibreak. A few weeks ago I visited the coastal town of Penzance to see family and took a day trip to St Ives. This idyllic seaside town offers unspoilt beaches, a thriving art scene, quaint cafes and craft shops, here is an insight into my favourite things to do in this charming Cornish destination.

Porthgwidden Beach – the number one attraction in St Ives, this lovely small beach is a sheltered stretch of land with crystal clear sea and the occasional seal sighting in the bay.

Cream tea at Olive’s – Tucked away in the backstreets of St Ives this tiny neighbourhood café is often named the best cream tea in St Ives. For less than £5 you can indulge in a huge fresh crumbly scone with a generous helping of homemade strawberry jam and Cornish clotted cream and a pot of tea.

Burger from Blas Burgerworks – these gourmet burgers are made from fresh local ingredients and are addictively tasty. The naturally reared, free range meat are cooked to perfection on the charcoal grill and are accompanied with toppings of your choice. Definitely the best burger I’ve ever tasted in Cornwall.

Tate St Ives for art – An architecturally spectacular modern gallery with sea views and local and international artworks. Located nearby to Porthmeor Beach.

Pasty at Pasty Presto – we couldn’t resist trying the World’s best Cornish pasty. This bakery was recently awarded the highest accolade for its traditional beef and vegetable pasty, flaky rich pastry filled with a tender delicious seasoned filling.

Little Jems Jewellery for vintage jewels – this small shop stocks beautiful one-off antique pieces of jewellery at reasonable prices.

Ice-cream at Moomaid – At the end of a day in St Ives nothing is better than a luxury Cornish Ice Cream from Moomaid. This creamy rich ice-cream made on the Farm at Tremedda Zennor and comes in a variety of indulgent flavours.

More information on St Ives here.

***My new travel book, CORNWALL by Weekend Journals is available to order here. Use the code TMM10 to get 10% off.***

Things to do in Truro

Posted on 18/06/2013 by Milly

When the rain is pouring in London a place of sunshine and solace within reach seems like an impossibility. Cornwall really benefits from its Southern position – every time I visit I feel like the sun appears as soon as the train reaches the bridge welcoming you into ‘Cornwall’. First Great Western offer a number of services daily that transport you from dreary London into the picturesque Cornish countryside in under five hours.

Picking a place to visit in Cornwall can be tricky, St Ives is wonderful, Mousehole is adorable, Penzance is so pretty… there is something for everyone whether you want sports and activities, a family country holiday or a private cottage retreat. Long energising walks, seaside frolics and pasties are all a must though, wherever you choose to stay.

Take a trip to Truro, Cornwall’s capital and discover a wealth of historic interest and at least a weekend’s worth of activities and adventures. Here are a few of my suggestions for this part of the world:

1) Truro’s architecture is both varied and spectacular – wander through the cobbled Georgian streets and admire the city’s glorious Gothic cathedral.

2) Every Wednesday and Saturday you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of Truro Farmers Market on Lemon Quay – pick up some fresh fruit and veg and potter around the shops.

3) Visit Mylor, hire a canoe for an hour and work up an appetite before returning back to the harbour for a delicious breakfast and superb roast coffee at Mylor café.

4) Discover Rick Stein’s culinary delights at his fish & chips restaurant and takeaway. This renowned chef offers Cornish seafood at its very best.

5) Board the Enterprise Boats to Trelissick Gardens to see the four summer houses and find a perfect picnic spot.

6) The epic National Maritime Museum of Cornwall is currently celebrating its tenth anniversary and over its five floors and fifteen galleries it illustrates the past, present and future of this island nation. Kids go free.

7) If you are keen on sealife, the Orca Sea Safari is a must… on the boat trip you will be introduced to the wide range of wildlife on the Cornish coastline and, fingers crossed, you might see dolphins, seals or even basking sharks.

8 ) If you have a car and don’t mind the drive, the Minack Theatre is well worth the journey… a magnificent open air stage cut into the cliff edge promises an unforgettable performance beneath the stars.

9) Swanpool is often recommended by locals as the best of the many beaches in and around Truro. Small but friendly with excellent facilities including a watersport centre for you to give a surfing a try.

10) The Lugger is a very special little hotel on the idyllic Portloe coast overlooking a tiny harbour with crystal clear water. With immaculate sea facing rooms and a restaurant that serves wonderful fine food, this hotel will take your breath away ensuring your stay in Cornwall is as memorable and magical as possible.

Thoroughly Modern Milly travelled with First Great Western trains.

www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk

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Photography by James Lidgett.

***My new travel book, CORNWALL by Weekend Journals is available to order here. Use the code TMM10 to get 10% off.***