Looking for exciting things to do and see whilst staying here in Far West Cornwall? There’s so much on offer you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Here are just some of our recommendations, all within easy reach of Boscrowan. Remember it’s your holiday so whatever your interests are treat yourself to that simple walk, learn something new or indulge in some fabulous food. You’ll find up to date information on things to do inside both our holiday cottages and we are always happy to advise.
Beach Life
The crystal clear seas and bright azure skies of the local beaches are mesmerizing. Whether you’re looking for surf, sandcastles or simply sun you’ll find fine examples of beaches at Porthcurno, Perran Sands, Sennen Cove, St Ives and Marazion. If you get chance try an early evening swim followed by a feast on one of our portable barbecues.
Along the Coast
The iconic St Michael’s Mount dominates the landscape as you drive back and forth from Boscrowan. Explore the medieval castle, cobbled streets and experience walking the causeway when the tide is out. Heading towards the Lizard Peninsula, Porthleven is a joy to explore, with its attractive harbour and great selection of eating places for all tastes and pockets. Travelling in a different direction, visit the tiny huddled fishing village of Mousehole protected from the sea by its two sturdy breakwaters. From Mousehole venture along the South West Coast Path or take the car on to the quaint village of Lamorna. At the end of a wooded valley you will discover the clear blue waters of Lamorna Cove nestled within granite cliffs.
Near to St. Ives, Gwithian, a three mile expanse of fine sand, is a perfect beach for young children and an ideal place to learn to surf. Explore Godrevy Point to see the lighthouse and further along the coast, at Seal Cove and Mutton Cove, you may be lucky enough to see seals basking on the beach during the spring and autumn months.
More examples of weather worn coves, such as Porthgwarra, can be found as you head towards Land’s End. Visit Cape Cod, the only cape in England (the point where two bodies of water meet, the Atlantic and English Channel) with its magnificent views and crashing waves. Porthcurno Beach, which is just about three miles from Land’s End, is a lovely sheltered beach with luminous turquoise water. Close by is The Minack Theatre an open-air theatre carved out of the rock, with a magical backdrop. Watching a play and enjoying a picnic here, as you look out to sea, is highly recommended.
Gardens
Step into a sub-tropical paradise when you visit one of our nearby gardens. The mild climate makes for some stunning sights.
Trengwainton
Within walking distance of Boscrowan and owned by the National Trust. See sensational spring displays of magnolias, rhododendrons and camellias, feel inspired by the walled kitchen garden or potter along the winding paths catching glimpses of Mount’s Bay beyond.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/trengwainton-garden/
Trewidden
Close by to Boscrowan this 15 acre garden offers much to see and do. Plants of interest include a collection of over 300 camellias and magnolias as well as an impressive Tree fern Dell. Children can enjoy a trail and there is of course a tea room.
Trebah
See giant gunnera, Hydrangea Valley and spectacular champion trees in these gardens located near Falmouth which are open all year round.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens
A new attraction (opened September 2012) with breathtaking views of St. Michael’s Mount, a myriad of exotic plants to delight in and sculptures and art installations to explore. Situated in Gulval, near Penzance.
Tresco Abbey Gardens
Travel by helicopter or boat to Tresco in the Scilly Isles to this horticultural paradise. With its unique microclimate many plants here are in flower all year round.
http://www.tresco.co.uk/what-to-do/abbey-garden/default.aspx
Other Places to Visit
Ancient and Pre−Historic Sites
If you’re heading to Land’s End, the Merry Maidens, a perfectly preserved stone circle probably dating from the Bronze Age, is well worth a visit. The stone circle would have been used in pagan ceremonies and legend has it that the maidens were a group of girls turned to stone for dancing and merrymaking on the Sabbath. Other ancient and pre-historic sites to visit include Carn Euny, Chyauster and Lanyon Quoit which is only a short distance away from Boscrowan.
St. Ives
Bustling St. Ives is a popular stop for its beaches, eclectic shops and sampling some art. Enjoy the Tate St. Ives art gallery, Barbara Hepworth’s Museum and Sculpture Garden and walking the narrow streets. If you travel to St. Ives by train from St. Erth you can sit back and admire the panoramic views of Carbis bay and St. Ives harbour. A much greener and more pleasant way to travel than by car!
Cornish Mining History
There are some amazing mining sites in the St. Just area of West Cornwall. Geevor, Levant and Botallack Mines all only 15 minutes drive from Boscrowan. Learn about how the mines were worked by taking a conducted tour from one of the enthusiastic volunteers and experience history for yourself as you are led through an underground mining tunnel. Visit Botallack with the ruins of the Crowns Mine’s engine houses fiercely clinging to the sides of the cliffs and witness an iconic view that surpasses any photo you may see. For more information on local mines see http://www.cornish-mining.org.uk/
We told you the area is a great place for indulging in great food! Here’s our pick of the best for all occasions and budgets.
Eating Out
Morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon teas:
Tremenheere Kitchen Tremenheere gardens, Gulval
Archie Browns wholefood vegetarian café, Penzance
The Cabin, Perranuthnoe
Duke St cafe, Newlyn
Pubs serving food:
The Dolphin Tavern, Penzance
Fishermans Arms, Newlyn
The Sportsman’s Arms, Heamoor
The Tinners Arms, Zennor
Restaurants and gastro pubs:
The Tolcarne Inn, Newlyn
(run by renowned local fish chef Ben Tunnicliffe)
The Old Coastguard Hotel, Mousehole
2 Fore St, Mousehole
Victoria Inn, Perranuthnoe
The Bakehouse, Penzance
Porthminster Beach Café, St. Ives
The Gurnards Head, Zennor
