Ben Pratchett – 01326 574842 ben.pratchett@enginehousemedia.co.uk
Chairman & Founder
Andy Forster – 01326 574842 andy.forster@enginehousemedia.co.uk
Holbrook, The Moors, Porthleven, Cornwall TR13 9JX www.enginehousemedia.co.uk www.levenmediagroup.co.uk
Welcome
From the Editor
to the latest edition of Cornwall Living!
In this issue of Cornwall Living, we throw open the door to the world of interiors – not just as decoration, but as an expression of how we live, especially here in the Duchy, where the coast often defines the aesthetic. A well-designed space doesn’t simply look good; it tells a story, sets a mood and supports our daily routines with both beauty and purpose. From the tactile pleasure of natural materials to the calming rhythm of a well-balanced colour palette, interiors shape how a home feels, behaves, and evolves over time. Whether you’re layering textures for warmth or defining spaces through lighting and layout, our expert contributors offer insight that turns inspiration into action proving that good design is as much about intention as it is about aesthetics. If you’re looking to give your home a makeover this season, turn to page 15 to find out more.
We’ve also been in conversation with Wendron Stoves (page 22) for advice on how heating your home with a stove brings more than warmth to a property and Westcountry Blinds (page 34), whose innovative awning solutions are helping customers to make the most of their outside space, come rain or shine.
This summer, we’re celebrating more than the homes we love. Our Cornwall Living Ultimate Summer Competition is officially underway, offering readers the chance to win-it-all! With a growing prize pot that features a collection of luxurious Cornish lifestyle prizes, it’s our way of bringing the spirit of Cornwall directly into your home – enter on page 58 for your chance to win
For those who love a canine caper, be sure to look out for our Dogs Love Cornwall Living supplement from page 37 – a celebration of stylish living with our fourlegged friends. From dog friendly watering holes to luxury accommodation that welcomes your pooch with open arms, there’s never the need to leave man’s best friend at home.
We’re also thrilled to launch the Cornwall Living Awards 2025 (page 6), where our readers can nominate their favourite Cornish businesses; those leading the way in innovation, craftsmanship, customer service and sustainable practices. From ethical design studios and eco-conscious producers to luxury stays and Cornish retail, we’re spotlighting the brands and businesses you love. Who will get your vote?
...happy reading!
Experience Got to
DOGGY DELIGHTS AT THE PENVENTON
At Penventon Park Hotel, dogs are more than welcome – they’re part of the family. Situated in the heart of Cornwall, this top-rated dog-friendly destination offers the perfect base for adventure. Picture yourself exploring stunning beaches and scenic walks, then returning to your room where your dog’s welcome basket awaits, filled with all the essentials. Pamper them with tasty meals from the Pooch Plates menu, designed to keep them healthy and energised, enjoyed in doggy-dining areas. With a central location, cosy rooms, staff who adore dogs, and extra touches like blankets and treat jars, every moment with your dog will be unforgettable at Penventon.
PENVENTON PARK HOTEL 01209 203000 enquiries@penventon.com www.penventon.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
DO YOU LOVE OR OWN A CORNISH BUSINESS?
The annual Cornwall Living Awards, as voted for by our readers, followers and subscribers, are set to take place in October 2025.
The ceremony will celebrate outstanding businesses from the Duchy, across 12 categories.
AWARD CATEGORIES
Hotels and Guest Houses
Restaurants, Bistros and Cafés
Holiday Cottage Companies
Homes and Interiors
Pet-friendly Businesses
Artists, Galleries and Designers
Cornish Retail Estate Agents and Developers
Adventure and Attractions
Health and Wellbeing
Architects and Interior Design
Food and Drink Producers
Visit www.enginehousemedia.co.uk/cl-awards to nominate now, or scan the QR code! Nominations are open until the 24th August.
Proceeds from the Cornwall Living Awards 2025 will go to Dive Project Cornwall.
The shortlists will be announced on 1st September 2025. Voting will then commence, closing on the 31st September 2025.Make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to receive regular updates – www.cornwall-living.co.uk/newsletter
A guard against the elements
As summer begins to show its face, we tentatively emerge from the confines of our homes to welcome the appearance of the sun on a more regular basis and the prospect of outdoor living. Lawns are mowed and flower beds get knocked into shape, ready for us to enjoy them from the comfort of a deckchair on the patio, deck or balcony. These neglected areas over the winter months now beckon, with the prospect of greater space in which to engage with each other. They effectively reclaim their mantle as extensions of our indoor spaces. However, the proverb “n’er cast a clout till May is out” – and beyond – comes to mind, especially for those of us who understand the vagaries of the weather in this part of the world.
Kestrel Specialist Handrail Systems understands this, too. That’s why their mirror-polished 316 stainless steel, with 10mm toughened glass, systems are designed to allow you virtually uninterrupted views of your prize roses, whilst protecting you from unwelcome gusts and chilly winds.
For more information, call 01726 338086 or visit www.kestrelshs.co.uk
Children’s & Teenagers Teeth Straightening
With long NHS waiting lists Dr Kate Rowe is offering Free Private Teeth Straightening Consultations to all Teenagers and Children with Short Waiting Times.
Kate brings 10 years of nationwide Invisalign and Teeth Straightening experience to cornwall along with her expert Invisalign status.
Where patients have previously been told it is not possible to straighten, talk to Kate as it may now be possible.
MEDfacials, one of the country’s leading skin clinics based in Truro, is now offering the stateof-the-art DermaV Laser – an advanced, noninvasive treatment designed to target rosacea, acne and hyperpigmentation. This treatment is also great for spider veins, especially threadveins in the face and legs.
This medical-grade laser technology addresses redness, inflammation and pigmentation at the source, while simultaneously stimulating collagen production to enhance overall skin tone and texture. Suitable for all skin types, the DermaV
Laser delivers visible results with minimal downtime. Ideal for those affected by persistent redness, post-acne scarring, or sun damage, this personalised treatment is carried out by trained professionals in MEDfacials’ CQC-registered clinic. Clients across Cornwall are already experiencing the benefits of this innovative technology. To learn more or to book a consultation, contact MEDfacials today and discover what the DermaV Laser can do for your skin.
For more information, visit www.medfacials.com or call 01872 229740.
Facilitating interior dreams
From the outside, Whitney Carne might appear like any other high-street fabric and paint shop. Step inside, however, and you’re met with something altogether rarer: knowledge, patience and a personal stake in every conversation. Owner-run, by Angel Whitney, and resolutely grounded in experience rather than gimmick, it is a place shaped by one woman’s lived renovation know-how and a fondness for helping others bring interiors to life.
This is no showroom of pre-packaged schemes. Here, the chalky grain of lime plaster is discussed as easily as curtain heading tape. Whether you’re upholstering a family heirloom or choosing wallpaper for a Georgian hallway, Angel offers more than materials, she offers context, clarity and advice as practical as it is perceptive. Her years spent wrangling old walls and breathing new life into old furniture lend weight to her guidance, and she’s refreshingly candid about what she doesn’t sell or doesn’t stock. As Penzance’s exclusive stockist for both Earthborn and Frenchic paints, Whitney Carne provides environmentally conscious
options that don’t compromise on quality or visual appeal.
There’s a working seamstress and lampshade maker behind the soft furnishings, and the shelves hold a considered stock of fabrics and pattern books, including the Laura Ashley range, along with those from Chess, The Designer’s Guild and GP & J Baker. Angel knows which book will likely hold that elusive print, and she’ll help you find it without the hard sell. If it isn’t here, she’ll tell you where it is.
Living above the interiors boutique she owns, and actively restoring the flat herself, Angel is not passing through. She’s invested, both literally and emotionally, in each customer, each length of fabric, each coat of paint. And it shows.
Head to Penzance to experience it for yourself. You’ll leave inspired!
For more information, visit www.whitneycarne.co.uk or call 01736 351458
Are you passionate about the arts and eager to shape the cultural life of Penzance? The Acorn is looking for dynamic, committed individuals to join its board of trustees – a pivotal role that helps steer one of West Cornwall’s most cherished venues. Trustees are instrumental in shaping strategy, making key decisions and safeguarding The Acorn’s vibrant future.
They’re particularly keen to hear from people with skills in HR, health & safety, marketing, finance, digital technology, or legal services – though enthusiasm, ideas, and a love of the arts go a long way too.
If a trustee role isn’t quite right for you, there are other fantastic ways to get involved. The Acorn’s volunteers are its beating heart, helping events run smoothly and enjoying great perks like free tickets in return.
To find out more or request an application pack, drop them an email today. Your journey with The Acorn could start here.
For more information, visit www.theacornpenzance.com or email admin@theacornpenzance.co.uk
ST AGNES
The importance of interiors
Katie Warren, of Fixer Property & Management, offers her expert knowledge on the importance of interior design and staging when it comes to holiday homes.
“Interior design plays a crucial role in holiday homes, impacting not just the aesthetic appeal but also guest satisfaction, comfort and the overall success of the property, occupancy rates and its rental return.
“Well-designed and consistent interiors create a strong first impression both online in photos (professional photos are vital), and in person. This directly influences booking rates and guest expectations. Good design considers the flow of space, accessibility and convenience. This is especially important for families or groups so owners must think about how many people will be using the home, and what will make them want to rebook.
“A top tip of mine – if you sleep 8, everything in the house must work for 8 people – the sofa, the dining table, the kitchen area. I often advise clients not to
add an extra bed for the sake of it, when the house is better suited for a smaller number.
“Holiday homes are meant to be escapes, places for guests to rest and relax, so make sure your home has a happy and calming feel. Spend money on a high-quality bed and mattress – people will always remember where they had a good night’s sleep!
“If you can invest in some local pieces, such as art or soft furnishings. Not only will this support the local communities, but it also connects your guests to Cornwall and their overall experience.”
Featured properties by local designers Warren French Interiors (www.warrenfrench.co.uk).
Looking for advice buying or running your holiday let, or wishing to discuss these issues in more detail?
For more information, call 01326 376873 or visit www.fixermanagement.com
Two coastal dining experiences under one roof
Perched above Mevagissey Bay, Stingi’s combines Cornish ingredients with recipes and techniques from places explored. Freshly caught fish and produce from local farms meet a special blend of spices to create distinctive Asian flavours. With a handcrafted cocktail menu and panoramic sea views from sunrise to sunset, this intimate setting is perfect for special occasions and memorable date nights.
Next door, discover The Seahorse Bar and Restaurant. With pints from £4 and breakfast from just £3.50, sit back and watch the waves
roll in. Soak up the Cornish sunshine in a comfortable booth with loved ones over a refreshing drink. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, enjoy locally sourced food at family-friendly prices. While you’re here, take a wander along Pentewan Sands Beach or explore the other facilities on the holiday park, also open to locals.
For more information, email info@stingis. co.uk | seahorse@pentewan.co.uk, or visit www.stingis.co.uk | www.seahorsecornwall.co.uk
CoastalVOGUE
Interior inspiration that sees seasonal trends meet Cornish craftsmanship.
Jo Downs
Our homes are more than mere spaces; they are sanctuaries – personal havens where we can escape the day-to-day and embrace a sense of belonging. Each room reflects something unique about who we are, from the colours that make us feel at ease to the textures that invite us to linger. As we continue to redefine our living spaces, it’s clear that our homes are a direct extension of our personalities and lifestyles. From the careful curation of art pieces to the selection of sustainable furniture, every decision is an opportunity to craft a space that speaks to our tastes and values. In 2025, interior design trends reflect an ever-growing desire for authenticity, comfort and a sense of personal expression within our homes. Cornish designers, artisans and retailers not only offer beautiful products but also embrace these trends, merging creativity with craftsmanship to help create spaces that feel as unique and personal as the families that inhabit them.
Each seasonal collection has been thoughtfully curated to nurture and grow every space into a dreamy destination retreatat-home. Linen, rattan and light woods reflect the quiet textures of the coast – grasses shifting in the breeze and the steady presence of the Atlantic beyond.
BELOW
The Winnard dining range, where contemporary style meets elegant practicality
WOW Cornwall (www.wowcornwall. co.uk) welcomes all to experience considered contemporary furniture, unique decorative accessories and artisan gifting solutions, all sea-spired by Cornwall’s wilderness palette, slow living ethos and creatively independent spirit. The shop in Wadebridge is a veritable treasure
For 2025, WOW Cornwall embraces tones that mirror the landscape around them. Soft sand beiges, deep forest greens and terracotta reds appear across their collections, following the trend of natural materials. These hues evoke the warmth of the Cornish coast –where the earth meets the sea – incorporating these earthy tones into your interiors brings a sense of balance, a visual reflection of the changing seasons. Whether through a new sofa upholstered in natural linen or recycled glassware, WOW Cornwall invites you to bring the coastal calm of Cornwall into your home – naturally and sustainably. WOW Cornwall is passionate about helping every valued customer to live their cosiest every day in a soul-enhancing sanctuary filled with beautiful pieces that invite all to gather, share and escape in effortlessly relaxed style and comfort – whether at home or away, thanks to their extensive online emporium of products.
For those looking for something striking and unique, Jo Downs (www.jodowns.com) creates fused-glass art pieces that seem to capture the very essence of Cornwall’s landscapes. Jo creates works that reflect the ever-changing beauty of the Cornish coast, with delicate glass designs that mirror the sea’s movement, the flora of the cliffs and the play of light across the landscape. Each season, Jo releases a new collection and this summer she has created her very first works in recycled glass.
ABOVE
Outdoor living is effortless with the Antigua Longer Set
INSET
Relax in style with the Chedworth Armchair in charcoal
All products on this page are available from WOW Cornwall
trove of all things interior, expertly curated by owner Melanie.
ABOVE
Dine in style with the Soho oval dining table
Titled Artisan Beachcomber, Jo’s new collection has a distinctly different feel to her other collections, being made of thousands of discarded glass pieces in as many colours, with a dense and beautiful surface that makes real beauty out of recycled glass. Using damaged or excess glass directly, without reprocessing it, allows Jo to use the brightly coloured broken chips and shards just as they are, resulting in pieces that are not only beautiful but ethical too. This wonderful new collection is a perfect reminder of those lazy days combing the beach looking for shoreline treasures.
Jo Downs pieces bring a dynamic, sensory quality to interiors, each one telling a story of land and sea. Whether it’s a glass panel that mirrors the sea’s tranquil ebb and flow or a series of intricate patterns that recall the wild Cornish coastline, Jo Downs brings both artistry and functionality to the home. With a new gallery in Truro, welcoming visitors since late last year, as well as galleries in St Ives, Fowey, Padstow, Tintagel and Launceston, you’re never far from being able to view these wonderful artworks up close. A new range of kitchen textiles and mugs is launching soon, featuring Jo’s iconic Circle of Fish design, bringing a splash of coastal charm for every home.
At Uneeka (www.uneeka.com) you’ll find distinctive homeware items along with a collection of durable and stylish furniture, all carefully and ethically sourced to cater for all tastes. Uneeka’s mission is to create spaces that resonate with personality and purpose. There recently launched, designer-for-a-day service is a unique opportunity to transform your interior into something special.
For homeowners or holiday property curators, this service promises bespoke designs that reflect individuality. Whether you seek guidance to start a new project or require assistance to bring it to completion, this personalised support from their in-house designer guarantees a seamless process. From rustic Cornish cottages to contemporary rentals, designer Charlotte will collaborate with you to incorporate thoughtful details, elevating the ambience from ordinary to extraordinary.
The day starts with an initial meeting to explore the client’s vision, including colour palettes, themes and functional needs. A space assessment follows, identifying opportunities for improvement. Clients are encouraged to share preferences or inspiration to ensure the design aligns with their style. Tailored recommendations such as bespoke furniture, layout adjustments, and sustainable solutions are all part of the service. Following the visit, you’ll receive an action plan with a mood board, layout sketches and a curated shopping list featuring Uneeka’s exclusive products. This organised plan will mean you’re well-equipped to meet your project brief, with the benefit of ongoing support to execute your design.
ABOVE & BELOW
From stunning handmade glass art to unique giftware, each Jo Downs creation is lovingly crafted in their Cornish studio
ABOVE
Creating a cosy corner with Uneeka
ABOVE
Find the balance with Uneeka
RIGHT
Let Iroka help you create a feeling of calm in your home
For holiday homeowners, Uneeka’s expertise recognises that holiday lets must balance beauty with functionality, ensuring comfort and practicality for guests while maintaining a distinctive charm. The designer-for-a-day experience can transition to larger design projects, providing a cohesive and well-executed vision for a group of properties. Uneeka’s service invites clients to embark on a creative journey. With a commitment to sustainability and a keen eye for detail, they craft curated interiors that tell a story. Turn to page 28 to find out more.
With beautifully appointed showrooms in Hayle and Wadebridge, Iroka (www.iroka. com) brings together the very best in furniture, homewares, design services and more – all under one roof. For homeowners, developers and design enthusiasts alike, Iroka has something for everyone. Iroka Interiors doesn’t simply sell furniture; they curate entire living environments tailored to your space. Whether you’re furnishing a single room or embarking on a whole-home redesign, Iroka has everything you need to bring your vision to life.
Step inside their showrooms and discover an expansive collection of designer furniture sourced from some of Europe’s most luxurious brands. The range spans from contemporary dining tables and sculptural chairs to smart storage solutions like sleek sideboards and modular shelving units. Whether you’re drawn to the clean Scandinavian style of Normann Copenhagen, the timeless quality of Ethnicraft, or the Italian flair of Calligaris and Mastrella, you’re sure to find a piece that speaks to your design needs.
Iroka also boasts a carefully curated homewares and gifts department – ideal for those finishing touches that elevate a room from the ordinary to the extraordinary. From artful lighting and ceramics to statement cushions and decorative accessories, it’s these small details that turn a house into a home. Appointments with in-house specialists are highly encouraged, offering clients the opportunity to receive personalised advice from expert designers and consultants. Whether you’re selecting the perfect solid wood floor or trying to envision your dream kitchen, the guidance from the Iroka team will ensure a satisfying experience. Their in-house interior design studio, also based in Hayle, offers a scalable and fully managed design service that caters to projects of every size. Whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or completely redesign your home, Iroka Interiors’ design team is there to guide you from initial concept through to final, fully managed installation. From furniture to flooring, kitchens to curtains, Iroka Interiors offers a full-service design experience with exceptional value.
Discover
ABOVE
the art of effortless interiors with Iroka
Interior designer, Frances Healy (www. franceshealyinteriors.co.uk) doesn’t see herself as having a signature style, preferring to look at each house, client and project as an individual and design to their brief and requirements. That said, she loves a mix of colours, patterns and textures and does have a favourite selection of suppliers to whom she often returns to for inspiration, while also keeping each project fresh.
Frances views every house as inspiring – however sad, run down or neglected it is, it can always be improved upon and sometimes the worse it is, the more fun she has restoring it. She believes houses too have souls, and that you just need to find them and bring them back to life. “A recent boathouse project in Rock was hugely inspired by nature. The house was painted white internally from top to bottom. The clients wanted to bring in all the colours from the estuary and the fields and trees on the opposite bank. The palette I used reflected this with blue, teals and aqua from the water colours and greens from the fields and trees, with splashes of orange to represent the trees changing colour in the Autumn.”
Frances doesn’t define the process, rather she begins it and then guides clients through the minefield of choice, helping them to achieve a well-furnished and balanced house that will stand the test of time. Adding personal effects, artwork, photographs, books and memories, then ultimately make the house a home.
These Cornish interior businesses invite us to embrace a design philosophy that marries craftsmanship with modernity, sustainability with style and individuality with functionality. Whether you’re refreshing a single corner or making over an entire room, there’s a piece of Cornwall to bring into your home this summer.
Read, Watch, EXPERIENCE
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ABOVE
Frances Healy’s attention to detail is evident in every project
In a digital world, warmth and fire offer reassuring certainty and quiet control.
The wind howls around the gable ends. Somewhere nearby, a hinge creaks and the gate bangs shut in the dark. Inside, the electric clocks are blank, the kettle dead, the oven inert. But the house is not cold. The house is not quiet. There is the crack and spit of logs, the glow of fire on the hearth. And though the power lines may have failed, the flame has not.
In Helston, Wendron Stoves has built its name not on fleeting trends but on the steady promise of heat. In a landscape carved by weather and tide, there’s something ancient
When the lights GO OUT
and reassuring about a stove – a centrepiece of warmth and self-reliance, with roots dug deep in human memory.
It is no accident that the traditional stove, far from fading with modern convenience, is holding its own. This isn’t nostalgia –it’s foresight.
In 1974, the lights really did go out. Britain’s winter of discontent was darkened by the three-day week, a knee-jerk governmental response to strikes and the spiralling cost of coal and oil. The electricity supply was turned off to homes and businesses for whole days
at a time, while television shut down early to save power. Entire streets illuminated by flickering candlelight, children did homework by torchlight, and cold dinners were served with resigned humour. The living rooms that fared best were those still blessed with a hearth.
Today, the ghosts of that winter are stirring. National Grid’s winter outlooks have become less reassuring, with energy prices volatile and the infrastructure ever more strained. Storms bring down lines. Floods isolate villages. And though the smart home blinks contentedly on the average day, one need only glance at a weather warning or an international headline to be reminded of how fragile the everyday can be.
At Wendron Stoves, this is not breaking news – “Customers are coming not just for style or status, but for something older and steadier: the promise of autonomy.”
They began with that promise. Decades of experience, hand-picking the right stove for the right home, navigating the exacting language of flue systems, chimney linings, hearths and clearances, have made the team there something of an authority. But they can pair this technical grounding with an intuitive understanding of how people live. They know that for many, a stove is more than a heat source. It is where coats are dried, bread is toasted and stories are told. It is a hearth in the old sense of the word.
Their selection ranges from the pure and pared-back, Scandi silhouettes with pinpoint combustion, to the grand and stately: deep cast iron stoves, handsome in black or green enamel, with brass fittings and broad heat output. Many now come with clever systems that allow you to direct warmth to specific parts of the house, heat water tanks, or cook entire meals. And crucially, they need no electricity to work.
That independence matters. For all the comforts of the modern home, our reliance on power has become nearly total. The freezer hums with stored food. The router pulses in its corner. Even the boiler, once a champion of autonomy, is now often dependent on a digital controller. When the supply stops, so does the function.
But the stove does not blink. With a good stack of seasoned logs and a match, it becomes a glowing heart in a quieted world.
At Wendron Stoves, they understand that the romance of fire doesn’t mean abandoning modernity. Their installations are cleanlined, technically astute and fully compliant with environmental regulations. They can work with architectural new builds or rural farmhouses, and they know how to bring a centuries-old concept into the present without losing its soul.
Perhaps it is not such a surprise, then, that more households are choosing to light the fire again, not just to ward off the cold, but to reclaim a little control. In a flickering world, the stove burns steadily.
WENDRON STOVES
Unit 4, Water-Ma-Trout Industrial Estate, Helston TR13 0LW
One of Falmouth and Truro’s most joyful emporia brings colour, charm and character home.
The Grey Lurcher arrived in Truro like the second verse of a beguiling poem – familiar, yet full of originality and recognisably an extension of the initial idea. Twelve months in, the younger sibling to the Falmouth precursor is thriving, smaller in footprint but just as devoted to the joyful eclectic mix of desirable objects imbued with chromatic flair.
Inside, every shelf feels like a versified recital that speaks of quality and affordability. Retro homewares flirt with French beach baskets, soft toys reside beside linens, while enamel mugs jostle with Mediterranean-inspired products. There’s a tangible sense of curation – not in the sterile, sparse sense of the word, but in the instinctive way that speaks of care and connection.
Colour isn’t something that just happens to occur here, it’s thoroughly thought through. From 1950s hues on ornaments and glassware to unframed prints, this is a shop that exalts the everyday. Even the chalk paint – Annie Sloan’s full range, stocked in both locations – is a rallying cry for reinvention. The team behind the counter know it inside out, not through sales patter but through their own brushstrokes. Whether you’re refreshing a
kitchen or rescuing a table from the tip, you’ll find good advice and great materials such as waxes, stencils and more besides.
New additions are made with care. This summer sees a playful expansion into gifts for children – glow-soft night lights, traditional games and cute cuddly creatures begging to be named. Meanwhile, paper goods remain a highlight, from tongue-in-cheek greetings cards to East End paper garlands suitable to bring joy to any home.
It is not minimal, not muted and not made to be forgotten. The Grey Lurcher is a reminder that the objects we live with can lift the day – if they’re chosen with an eye for the refreshing, the useful, the unexpected. In Falmouth and now in Truro, that’s exactly what you’ll find: practical pleasures with personality, colour you can carry home and shelves you want to spend an hour sifting through.
A greener future beckons with Recycle Bound. Paving THE WAY
Recycle Bound stands out as a groundbreaking innovation in outdoor surfaces in a world increasingly aware of the need for sustainable solutions.
Developed by Oltco, Recycle Bound is the world’s first Resin Bound surface made using waste plastic – and it’s transforming outdoor spaces while tackling a global environmental issue head-on.
The development of Recycle Bound –Oltco’s patented surfacing solution made from waste plastic – marked a breakthrough for the company. Engineered to be installed like a conventional resin-bound surface, Recycle Bound incorporates plastic waste that is typically unrecyclable, including the kind frequently recovered from beaches. The result is a robust, visually appealing finish that’s now used across the UK, from residential driveways to public realm schemes and commercial settings.
Each square metre of Recycle Bound recycles the equivalent of over 3,000 plastic straws. With installations across driveways, patios, footpaths and commercial spaces, Recycle Bound not only looks great but also plays a vital role in reducing plastic pollution. To date, the solution has recycled the equivalent of over 500 million plastic straws.
But sustainability does not mean compromising on performance. Recycle Bound is durable, low-maintenance, and fully permeable, allowing water to drain naturally, which helps reduce flooding and
meet Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) requirements. It is UV-stable, antislip and ideal for a wide range of outdoor spaces.
Design flexibility is another significant advantage. With a growing collection of natural stone blends, including customer favourites like Crantock, Perran and Kernow Granite, Recycle Bound enables property owners to select a finish that aligns with their preferences or existing home environment while having a minimum impact upon the planet.
The innovation has not gone unnoticed. Recycle Bound has received national recognition, including industry awards and media coverage, solidifying its reputation as a leader in sustainable surfacing.
Whether you are a homeowner looking to enhance your outdoor space, a business committed to eco-friendly solutions, or a local authority striving for sustainable development, Recycle Bound offers a solution that delivers on style, durability and environmental impact.
OLTCO LTD
01637 540039 info@oltco.co.uk www.oltco.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
EthicalLIFESTYLE
This spring, Uneeka celebrates a remarkable 20 years in business.
The anniversary celebrates two decades of creativity, ethical trading and strong community ties for this independent Cornish retailer known for its curated homeware, furniture and lifestyle accessories.
Founded in 2004 by friends Jodi Skelton and John Tornabene, Uneeka’s journey began after a life-changing trip to Nepal. Inspired by their travels and driven by a passion for fair trade, the pair opened their first store in Truro’s Lemon Street Market in 2005. Their vision: to bring ethically sourced, one-of-a-kind goods to a wider audience.
What started as a modest unit has since grown into a trio of thoughtfully designed retail spaces. Today, Uneeka operates a vibrant lifestyle store on Boscawen Street (complete with a café and yoga studio), a home store on City Road showcasing furniture and decor, and a light-filled shop in Falmouth’s Market Street. All locations stay true to the welcoming and
ethical ethos that has defined the brand from day one.
At its core, Uneeka’s philosophy is all about a lifestyle made fair. Its collections are ethically sourced, thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted, combining global artistry with local values. The name itself, a fusion of “unique” and “eureka”, reflects the spirit of discovery that runs through every product on its shelves.
Since 2009, Jodi has steered the business solo, forging lasting partnerships with familyrun suppliers and social cooperatives around the world, while also working with local and UK-based makers. “From the very beginning, provenance and support for small traders have been fundamental to Uneeka,” he says. “It’s something we’ve never compromised on.”
This care extends to the team as well. Many staff members have been with Uneeka for over a decade, forming a close-knit working culture. “Uneeka has been a massive part of my life for
the last 14 years,” says Operations Manager Jess Prisk. “There’s nowhere else I’d want to work. I love the focus on fair trade, the creative freedom, and the values that make it feel like more than just a job.”
To mark the milestone, Uneeka has turned to storytelling and creativity. A special anniversary video has been produced with a local videographer, offering an intimate look at the people and passion behind the business.
The film captures reflections from Jodi and the team, celebrating both the journey and the values that have shaped Uneeka.
In another commemorative gesture, artist and Café Assistant Manager Jessie Klaiber of Klaiber Studios created a limited-edition watercolour illustration, celebrating the brand’s essence – community, creativity, sustainability, and craftsmanship. “I aimed to capture Uneeka’s heart through visual storytelling – from its commitment to fair trade to the vibrant people who make it special,” says Jessie. The artwork features on a collection of eco-friendly tote bags and notebooks produced in collaboration with Coffee Notes, using recycled coffee cups.
Uneeka’s evolution has always been rooted in innovation and family. Jodi’s sister Louise was the first to join the team, bringing her eye for styling and product curation to the homeware department. In 2017, Jodi’s wife Carrina Skelton
officially became Director, contributing her management and communications expertise to support Uneeka’s continued growth.
Together, the family-led team has expanded the business with new services such as interior styling, a ‘designer for a day’ offering, handson workshops, and community events at Café Uneeka. Later this year, Uneeka will also launch a new website, making its thoughtfully curated collections and design services even more accessible.
Reflecting on the brand’s journey, Jodi says: “It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come. There have been challenges, of course, but also so many wins. We’ve always evolved with our customers’ needs, and it’s all thanks to our brilliant team and our loyal community.”
Carrina adds, “We’ll continue to inspire conscious living with ethically sourced, highquality products and a personal, considered approach. For us, it’s about helping people make meaningful choices.”
From a small market stall to a leading name in ethical retail, Uneeka’s 20-year journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven business. As Cornwall’s independent retail scene continues to flourish, Uneeka remains a shining example of creativity, integrity and community at its best.
UNEEKA
01872 888530
uneeka.home showroom: City Road, Truro TR1 2JL
uneeka.life and cafe.uneeka: 5 Boscawen Street, Truro TR1 2EL
uneeka.life : 25 Market Street, Falmouth TR11 3AS
@uneeka.life
hello@uneeka.com
www.uneeka.com
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Penzance’s own little DEPARTMENT STORE
A journey through Alfred Smith & Son's retail haven.
Established in 1811 and now guided by the fifth generation of the same family, this longstanding Cornish business holds the distinction of being both the oldest independent furniture retailer in the country and the oldest family-run enterprise in Cornwall. From its expansive 12,000-square-foot showrooms on the edge of Penzance, it offers carefully chosen collections of dining and bedroom furniture, upholstery, beds, carpets and curtains — all designed to create homes of comfort and character. Alongside these, a dedicated holiday home furnishing service reflects the business’s deep understanding of Cornwall’s shifting seasons and coastal homes.
The journey begins on the ground floor, where a delightful toy department captures the imagination of visitors of all ages. Carefully selected games, puzzles, and jigsaws create a vibrant atmosphere that speaks to the store's commitment to family and enjoyment. Beyond children's entertainment, the store has thoughtfully expanded its offerings to include a support section dedicated to independent living, demonstrating a keen comprehension of diverse customer needs.
As visitors ascend through the store's levels, they encounter an impressive array of upholstery that reflects the dynamic lifestyles of Cornish homes.
Each piece has been meticulously chosen, inviting customers to pause, sit and truly experience the comfort. From dining tables to sophisticated sideboards and elegant bookcases, the cabinet furniture collection represents a perfect blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal.
The highlight of the Alfred Smith & Son experience awaits on the mattress floors. With over 40 mattresses on display, the selection will leave you spoilt for choice. Featuring renowned manufacturers like Hypnos, Harrison Spinks, Relyon, Rest Assured, Silent Night and Enchanted House, the bedding department ensures that every customer can find their perfect night's sleep. Whether seeking orthopaedic support, luxurious comfort, or budgetfriendly options, there's a mattress to suit every preference.
More than a store, Alfred Smith & Son represents a local institution that understands the art of making a house a home. It's a destination where retail therapy meets genuine care, offering an inviting space that celebrates Cornwall's unique spirit of warmth and hospitality.
electrical certification to flood prevention, this St Ives company builds foundations of trust across Cornwall.
In the competitive construction landscape of Cornwall, Blue Wave Design and Construction Services has weathered the good times and the lean ones.
Founded on over three decades of combined experience, this St Ives-based company has established itself as a redoubtable presence delivering comprehensive building solutions across the region.
The company's electrical division holds NICEIC accreditation, enabling them to provide certification for all electrical aspects of a project. This integrated approach eliminates the frustration of coordinating multiple contractors while ensuring compliance with stringent safety standards. From complete property rewiring to sophisticated PIV ventilation systems and electric vehicle charging installations, their qualified electricians can handle the full spectrum of electrical requirements.
Blue Wave's extension and renovation services demonstrate their genuine end-toend capability. The team navigates clients through architectural drawings, planning applications, and Building Control liaisons before embarking on construction. This holistic process, backed by comprehensive building insurance, creates a structured pathway from concept to completion. Perhaps most remarkable is their specialised expertise in flood prevention systems. Having worked extensively with both commercial
and domestic properties affected by flood damage throughout St Ives and surrounding areas, Blue Wave has developed valuable knowledge in this critical field. Their detailed quotations facilitate smooth insurance claim processing, easing the burden during challenging circumstances.
Beyond client services, Blue Wave demonstrates foresight through its commitment to nurturing the next generation of construction professionals. Supported by capital investment through the St Ives Town Deal Grant, they provide extensive in-house training while supporting apprentices through formal college education.
Distinguished by their technical competence, they recognise that construction projects represent significant investments of trust. Whether installing electrical systems, building extensions, or implementing flood prevention measures, they approach each project with the same meticulous attention, making all the difference to Cornwall's homes and businesses.
BLUEWAVE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LTD
The Old School, The Stennack, St Ives TR26 1QU bluewavedcs@gmail.com www.bluewavedcs.com Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Traditional Scandinavian Saunas from Market Leaders Kernow Springs
Kernow Springs Saunas are hand made by their experienced craftsman right here in Cornwall. This means the team can bespoke build your Sauna to suit your exact specification right on site, at your location.
Available in either BOX, CUBE, BARREL, ARCH, OVAL or ROUND HOUSE designs, from 2 person to 25 person with either wood burning or electric stoves and a whole host of optional extras.
Prices start at £4,850.00 + vat including free delivery & installation.
‘Kernow Springs - Hot & Cold Immersion Specialists since 2013’
Why not try out the new WOODFIRED HYDRO SPA along with the fantastic WOODFIRED SAUNA & COLD PLUNGE POOL at the new KERNOW SPRINGS NORDIC SPA EXPERIENCE & interactive showroom in Wadebridge. See website for bookings & availability.
25% off of your first visit! Apply discount CLV5634 on check out.
Awning
ESSENTIALS
Discover innovative awning solutions that combine beauty and practicality for any outdoor area.
ABOVE
Markilux 990
Awnings not only protect your family from the sun’s harsh rays, they also help to prevent your valuable furnishings from fading and reduce the internal temperature of your home when the sun is at its hottest. An awning can also help to extend your home into the garden and with integral lighting and heating options available your awning will provide a social space usable on into the evening.
At Westcountry Blinds, their company ethos has always been to partner with the very best manufacturers therefore they exclusively use German-based Markilux Awnings, who were winner of a coveted Red Dot Design Award 2024. Markilux have a wide variety of awnings available; with the help of Westcountry Blinds, we take a look at some of their best sellers.
Markilux 990
Small, space-saving and lightweight, the Markilux 990 full cassette awning discreetly
blends into the architectural facade of your home. With its discreet 124mm cassette, it is perfect for shading small terraces and balconies. With the ability to individually select your awning cover, and with the option of bright chrome end caps and a U-shaped front profile, the attractive design of this awning will allow you to enjoy many carefree hours in the most beautiful shade.
Markilux MX-3
The MX-3 is a beautifully designed, compact folding-arm awning with a curved cassette that is sure to be the visual highlight of any patio or balcony. The all-round cassette and screen profiles give this awning model an unmistakably expressive look. At the same time, the Markilux MX-3 offers unique design options including frame and fabric colour, as well as numerous optional additional features, such as LED lighting and sensors for weatherdependent control, which can be configured as desired.
Markilux Pergola Compact
The Markilux Pergola Compact offers an extremely stable option for sun protection for small terraces or balconies, giving an impressive graceful shape. This space-saving awning system is an all-round success.
The awning cover is fully protected by the angular, compact full cassette and the lateral guide tracks of the pergola awning keep the fabric cover at optimum tension in wind and weather. With an electric awning model available, nothing stands in the way of many cosy hours outside.
Markilux awnings and pergolas come with multiple options, depending on the model, as well as a choice of operation methods. Opt for an ergonomic stainless-steel crank for manual operation of your awning, with the additional option of a servo-supported gear mechanism to make it easier to operate; or a fully motorised version with remote control. Also, when paired with the Somfy TaHoma Switch, you can even operate your awning when you’re out and about via a smartphone or tablet. There are also sensor options available. Light sensors to bring the awning out, or wind and rain sensors to retract the awning back in prevailing weather conditions. A Westcountry
Blinds’ favourite is the Markilux Vibrabox; an inertia sensor which, depending on wind load, will retract the awning back to protect it from damage. This sensor is battery powered so does not require additional power supplies. As previously mentioned, additional options include LED lighting, which can be built into the cassettes on some models, with separate light bars available for creating a lovely ambient mood as the light fades. There are also heating options available, with some models allowing these to be fitted to the cassette and, for those that don’t, there are standalone units available so no-one need feel chilly. These options allow your awning to be enjoyed long into the evening on those cooler summer evenings.
Westcountry Blinds also supply commercial awnings into the hotel and catering industry, as well as for schools, shops and businesses. Commercial awnings can be colour matched to building facades and corporate brand palettes, with the option of the fabric being sign written with a company name or logo. Whatever your awning need, we highly recommend contacting Westcountry Blinds or visiting their showroom today to discuss your options – the only limit is your imagination.
WESTCOUNTRY BLINDS
Units 13 & 14, Marsh Lane Retail Park, Marsh Lane, Hayle TR27 5JR 01736 752397
info@westcountryblinds.co.uk www.westcountryblinds.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
ABOVE Markilux Pergola
Markilux MX-3
CanineCAPERS
Unleash some tail-wagging adventures with your pooch this
has everything you need to make exploring Cornwall with your canine companion a breeze!
Our dogs are more than just companions; they’re our adventure partners, our loyal sidekicks and our source of endless joy. Whether it's a spontaneous jaunt down to the coast or a leisurely walk through the countryside, there’s something uniquely special about sharing new experiences with our furry friends. They remind us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and truly immerse ourselves in the present moment – whether that means chasing after a stick, sniffing every corner, or simply basking in the sunshine together.
Exploring with your dog opens up a world of possibilities, where every trail leads to a new discovery and every adventure strengthens the bond between you both. From the excitement of discovering a new dog-friendly beach to enjoying a quiet woodland path, your dog is there to make every step more enjoyable. The joy of watching your dog run free, tail wagging, is one of life’s simple pleasures, and there’s no better way to make memories than by embracing the freedom and joy of a day out together.
In this issue, we explore some of Cornwall's favourite dog friendly businesses. From beach days to countryside strolls, Cornwall offers a wealth of adventures waiting to be experienced – side by side with your favourite four-legged friend.
…happy reading!
Experience Got to
CARRYING COMFORT, FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG
Slickers Doghouse slings are designed with both dog and owner in mind, bringing together strength, style and comfort in equal measure.
Made from durable, machine-washable fabrics, the slings are built to last – resilient enough to support your dog’s weight, yet soft enough to keep them feeling secure and relaxed. Weight is evenly distributed across your body, sparing your shoulders and back from strain, making it an effortless way to carry your companion on a lengthy walk or easing the journey for an ageing or injured pet.
Adjustable straps help tailor the fit to your frame, while added features like integrated restraints and handy pockets turn a simple solution into a smart one. Their versatility is equally impressive: useful on public transport, ideal for young pups not yet road-ready, or indispensable for dogs with limited mobility.
From lightweight fleece styles to waterproof options and snug carriers made especially for puppies, there’s a sling for every scenario. And while they serve a practical purpose, they’re far from utilitarian in appearance.
SLICKERS DOGHOUSE
5 North Quay, Padstow PL28 8AF 07538 691503 admin@slickersdoghouse.co.uk www.slickersdoghouse.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Scoop THE
Ideas for you and your pooch, from hotel stays to dog-friendly outings.
A pup friendly pint
A proudly dog-friendly pub just a stone’s throw from the Prince of Wales pier in Falmouth, Finn Mcouls is a popular spot for dog-walkers in this famed maritime town, and for good reason. Surrounded by pasty shops and chip shops, the team’s catchphrase is “We have the pub, you bring the grub!”. Humans and hounds alike can warm up by the log fire in the winter, or quench thirsty throats in the summer.
Or why not take the ferry to St Mawes or Flushing for the fabulous walks and golden beaches there? Treats and water are always on hand for four-legged guests, and of course there’s plenty of local ales for you to wash down your choice of Falmouth’s foodie scene!
Fun in the water for every dog
Swimdog is Cornwall’s brand-new, purpose-built swimming pool facility for dogs. Whether your dog is a water-loving Labrador or a nervous Newfoundland, Swimdog offers a controlled, clean environment for dogs to splash, paddle and play. Perfect for exercise, confidence building, or just cooling off on a hot day, the pool is designed with dogs of all shapes and sizes in mind. Owners are welcome to watch or join in while their pups enjoy a supervised swim session filled with wagging tails, happy splashes – creating great memories. They also have picnic benches in the paddock and a sheltered viewing area should the weather turn inclement.
For more information call 01326 318653.
Based at the former Dairyland site at Newquay they are located in the centre of Cornwall, with easy access from the main A30 at Summercourt heading towards Newquay.
For more information, visit swimdog. co.uk or email admin@swimdog.co.uk
Holiday cottages for unleashed comfort
Dog Friendly Escapes offers more than a place to stay, it offers places to be. With over 800 dog-friendly properties across the UK, from salt-swept Cornish cottages to pine-scented Scottish lodges, each home is handpicked for comfort and character. Whether it’s a hideaway for two or a house fit for celebration, their portfolio covers every kind of escape. Think sea views and hot tubs, enclosed gardens and fireside alcoves, short breaks or once-ina-lifetime gatherings. This is not the stuff
of catalogues and cliches, but a considered collection where details matter - from sun-lit patios where your furry friend can lounge to unmatched surroundings with adventure around every corner. Part of Classic Cottages, a dog-friendly escape isn’t an address – it’s an invitation to feel at home, to exhale, to reconnect and to linger a little longer.
For more information, visit www.dogfriendlyescapes.co.uk or call 01736 805968.
Waggy tails are welcome at The Blue
Perfectly positioned on the harbour in picturesque Polperro, you can enjoy a welldeserved pint and a meal in this traditional pub after a revitalising walk along the South West Coast Path.
Specialising in local seafood and an array of Cornish beverages, a warm welcome awaits both you and your best furry friend. Open daily from noon with food served between 12pm and 3pm, then later between 5pm and 8pm, follow @thebluepeterinnpolperro on Facebook for updates and the team’s weekly ‘Woof Wednesday’ shout out to all the amazing dogs they’ve met throughout the week.
With an endless supply of treats behind the bar, your dog will love their trip to The Blue just as much as you do.
For more information visit www.thebluepeterinn.co.uk or call 01503 272743.
Hannah Gold Pet Portraits
Personalised portraits of your pet, perfect for special gifts and happy memories
I create a range of portrait options at a variety of prices, using a full range of methods - line & wash, acrylics, pastel, charcoal, gouache, pencil and more!
Further details and examples can be found on my website. Call or message to discuss your requirements. www.azimuthart.co
The Harbour Inn makes the journey worthwhile for visitors and locals alike.
Whoever’s dictating the pace from St Austell Brewery HQ clearly has a perfect sense of what is required to make a great inn – a genuine welcome as you step over the threshold, good beer and the sort of comfort that you’d normally associate with home, mixed with a bit of local history and sense of place. This is certainly the case at the Harbour Inn in Porthleven. Recently refurbished, the new ambience is inviting, having lifted it from an acceptable watering hole to a place that you talk about with friends and wish to return to.
It is no mere drinking establishment masquerading as accommodation, nor lodgings pretending to understand hospitality. The fifteen individual rooms upstairs represent a genuine retreat from the modern world's relentless pace. Downstairs, the bar and dining area provide space and cosiness in equal measure, aided by some thoughtful touches, without feeling contrived. The open fireplace crackles with the same warmth that has drawn locals and visitors alike for generations, inducing conversations and cementing friendships over pints of award-winning ale.
The kitchen demonstrates understanding of its location's gifts. Seasonal menus celebrate Cornwall's maritime bounty without falling into the trap of overcomplicated presentation and overzealous pandering to culinary trends. Whether seeking a simple bite between coastal walks or an intimate dinner for two, the food respects both tradition and contemporary palates. Vegetarian and vegan
options sit naturally alongside pub classics. Families arrive complete with four-legged members, welcomed throughout the establishment with genuine enthusiasm rather than grudging tolerance. The specially named Proper Dog ale acknowledges these furry guests with typical Cornish humour, whilst dog-friendly accommodation ensures nobody gets left behind. Discretely placed sports screens satisfy those requiring a connection to the wider world, yet never dominate the atmosphere.
During the summer months, or if you don’t mind the cold in spring and autumn, you can take your drinks outside to the seating area overlooking the harbour. Here you can watch the beguiling movement of the boats as they obey the rhythm of the tide, or the harbour wall jumpers as they plunge into the water below.
It may be at the tip of Cornwall’s toe, but the Harbour Inn is well worth peeling off the A394 for, be it on your journey between Helston and Penzance or as a final destination. It’s a place that exhibits all of the traits that make a St Austell Brewery pub something special, a place that provides what the contemporary punter is after rather than what we’re encouraged to want.
HARBOUR INN
Commercial Road, Porthleven TR13 9JB 01326 573876
www.harbourinnporthleven.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Doggy adventuring
AROUND FALMOUTH
Enjoy stunning walks, waterside dining and welcoming stays with your four-legged friend.
Dogs are part of the family and in Falmouth, they’re warmly welcomed! Falmouth Holiday Homes has gathered the best dogfriendly spots so you and your pup can enjoy every mo-ment together..
Start with a lovely walk from Flushing to Mylor Café, where your dog can splash in the water or take a swim. The café even serves doggy ice cream – a perfect treat on a sunny day! For a delicious meal, Harbour House in Flushing offers high-quality, locally sourced food in a cosy setting. Dogs are warmly welcomed, making it an ideal spot to relax with great company and fantastic flavours.
For stunning views, The Pandora Inn is a must-visit. This waterside pub has a large pontoon extending over the water – perfect for crabbing, sipping a drink, or simply enjoying the scenery with your pup by your side.
Exploring Falmouth’s coastline is easy with Fal River Ferries – dogs ride for free! It’s a great way to let them test their sea legs while you take in the beauty of the area from the water.
For those venturing further, Holywell Bay is a dream for dogs that love to run free. This vast sandy cove offers endless space to chase waves, dig in the sand, and enjoy the fresh sea air.
After a day of adventure, a cosy retreat awaits. Seahorse is a stylish family house with wonderful harbour views. For smaller pups, Sailmakers is a charming apartment just steps from the beach and a short walk to the town centre. In the heart of Flushing, Morvergh boasts a stunning riverside garden, perfect for unwinding together.
Falmouth is a paradise for dog lovers – scenic walks, fantastic food, and welcoming stays make it ideal for a holiday filled with unforgettable memories. Because when your dog is happy, so are you!
FALMOUTH HOLIDAY HOMES
01326 567344
www.falmouthholidayhomes.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Welcome to
PORTHILLY BEACH HOLIDAY PARK
While Cornwall is famous for its raw majestic beauty, there are still some relatively undiscovered little gems, such as Porthilly. Our self-catering holiday homes are just moments from Porthilly Beach, and a short wander from Rock with all the activities that the Camel Estuary has to offer.
www.porthillybeachholidaypark.co.uk
porthillybeachholidaypark
A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE FOR HOUNDS AND THEIR HUMANS
Dogs can have fun while their people browse a wide range of quality products from UK independent businesses, many of which are handmade, eco-friendly and some are made right here in Cornwall! Anything not sourced in the UK is, in our opinion, the best on the market. We stock one of the largest ranges of Ruffwear gear in the South West. Come and check us out in the centre of Falmouth...It’s where your dog would choose to shop.
southpawdogstore • hello@southpawdogstore.com 48 Church Street, Falmouth TR11 3EA
Five of the best DOGGY FAVOURITES
Here in Cornwall, businesses pride themselves in being dog friendly. At every turn of the path or street, you’ll find that you and your pup are welcomed with open arms. Here are just a few of our favourites for visiting with your canine companion.
QUENCH YOUR THIRST
The Old Inn
Harbour Lights
This charming dog-friendly fish and chip restaurant, nestled in the lively marine town of Falmouth, offers breath-taking harbour views. A must-visit spot and beloved local gem, it proudly serves delicious Cornish fish in crispy batter and tasty chips made from premium Cornish potatoes. As a finalist in the 2023 National Fish & Chip Awards, its commitment to sustainability has earned it accolades. Whether grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a relaxed meal, diners will love the experience.
www.harbourlights.co.uk
A POOCH’S PARADISE
Chynhale Barns
If your dog could choose where to go on holiday, we think they would be highly likely to choose Chynhale Barns. With lovely secure gardens, zero restrictions on how many dogs you can bring and a fenced meadow that’s great for doggy playtime and picnics, it’s a pooch’s paradise. They haven’t forgotten the humans too, with the addition of an indoor heated swimming pool. Less than five minutes’ drive from Perranporth’s endless, sandy, dog-friendly beach and surrounded by acres of lush green Cornish countryside, Chynhale Barns is just perfect for an adventure with your hound!
www.chynhalebarns.co.uk
If you’re exploring the village of Mullion, be sure to spend some time beneath the thatched roof of one of the Lizard Peninsula’s most iconic establishments. The Old Inn has been welcoming weary travellers since the 16th century and today offers guests five en-suite rooms in which to hang their hat, all of which include cosy and comfortable dog-friendly shelter. Downstairs, the chefs can be found preparing a menu of delicious meals, utilising local ingredients and catering to all dietary needs. There’s also a menu for canine guests, securing the Old Inn Mullion’s spot in our five-best dog-friendly pubs on the Lizard.
www.oldinnmullion.co.uk
Trenance
Farm
Cottages PERFECT FOR EXPLORING
Nestled in 13 acres of pristine Cornish countryside, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, lies a perfect base for exploring Mullion and the wider Lizard Peninsula. It boasts 12 self-catering holiday cottages sleeping between two and six, with facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, two games rooms, and a field for your four-legged friends. Conveniently located, it’s only a five-minute stroll from the South West Coast Path and just ten minutes from the nearest beach.
www.trenancefarmcottages.co.uk
A POST-WALK RETREAT
The Lemon Arms
Mylor is the perfect spot for a creekside walk, a tucked-away haven waiting to be explored. It’s ideal for nature lovers looking to stretch their legs while enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the area with their furry friend. One of our favourite strolls is from Mylor Bridge, along Mylor Creek and then around to Restronguet Weir and back. We recommend refuelling at the Lemon Arms afterwards. The team have a brilliant menu of pub classics, a daily specials board, local ales on tap and to top it all off, a dog-friendly beer garden for your sleepy hound to rest their legs!
www.lemonarms.co.uk
Experience a day on the Isles of Scilly...
Your adventure starts with us
From the decks of Scillonian III to the breathtaking aerial views from Skybus, feel the excitement as the spectacular Isles of Scilly come into view for the very first time.
With departure points in Penzance, Land’s End, Newquay, and Exeter—plus seamless air and rail connections—getting to the Isles of Scilly, just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, has never been easier. Whether you’re planning an extended stay or a memorable day trip, your adventure starts with us. Visit the islands that are easy to reach, and impossible to forget...
Day trips from just £35...
Residents of Cornwall travel from just £25
SKYBUS | Land’s End Airport
Return flights operating Mon-Sat from 08:15 - 17:55 in peak season.
SCILLONIAN III | Penzance
Operating Mon-Sat from Penzance (and Sundays in peak season), departing at 09:15 and returning at 16:30, with 06:45 outward and 17:15 return on double sailing days.
SCILLONIAN III PASSENGER FERRY
AN ICONRestoring
After a year in the hands of the Cornwall Hotel Collection, Falmouth’s landmark seaside hotel has reawakened to reclaim her Victorian heritage.
This May marked 160 years since The Falmouth first opened its doors, and one year since the Cornwall Hotel Collection took it under its expert wing alongside The Greenbank and The Alverton. As one of the town’s most iconic Victorian landmarks, a thoughtful programme of renovations is now breathing new life into this ‘Grande Dame’ by the sea.
“Falmouth deserves its eponymous hotel to shine brightly as a beacon of pride for the town,” explains Managing Director, Ben Young. “We believe that The Falmouth should properly reflect the town’s vibrant spirit and rich heritage. Through careful restoration and strategic enhancements, this iconic establishment will continue to celebrate Falmouth’s unique identity while offering outstanding hospitality.”
The 1865 Lounge, named in honour of the hotel’s founding year, has undergone a dramatic reimagining. Soft textures, a coastal palette, large-scale artwork, and timber flooring have replaced tired interiors, creating a calm, characterful space that sets the tone for what’s to come. Now a welcoming retreat with warmth, richness and intent, guests can relax with a drink, admire the details and even bring their well-behaved dog.
The transformation of the adjoining bar and lounge allows the panoramic views of the tropical gardens and expansive coastline to truly shine – the perfect space for a spot of
lunch or afternoon tea. What’s more, the hotel’s spa, pool, sauna, and gym are now bright and inviting spaces, alongside the elegant exterior repaint and a newly surfaced car park.
Next in line is the Castle View restaurant, which is currently undergoing a redesign to mirror the new, more refined aesthetic. It’s a slow and respectful process – one rooted in restoring beauty, not erasing history. Matt Hulme of Dynargh Design explains: “The inspiration behind the new interiors stems from the rich heritage and architectural elegance of the building itself. With its storied past and an abundance of original features, the hotel offers a remarkable canvas. This isn’t about transformation, but refinement.”
Standing in its seafront location, welcoming locals and visitors alike to explore the progress, The Falmouth’s new chapter is unfolding gracefully. Having achieved so much in 12 months, and with grand plans in place for the future, it’s clear this historic hotel is in safe hands, reclaiming its place as one of Cornwall’s most treasured hotels.
THE FALMOUTH
Castle Beach, Falmouth TR11 4NZ
01326 312671
thefalmouthhotel
TheFalmouthHotel
www.falmouthhotel.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
EXPERIENCE
Why not discover The Falmouth's new look for yourself at one of the upcoming summer events?
From their main stage at Falmouth's Sea Shanty Festival (13th-15th June) and the fun of Falmouth Week's Red Arrow display (13th August), to an archery and barbecue evening (24th August), this is the perfect summer setting by the sea.
CREATING 5 EXPERIENCES
Vanessa
D V
Forever Cornwall are very professional, easy to deal with and provide comprehensive information ahead of the holiday. Highly recommend.
Pam D
P
If you are looking for a special place to stay, that is set in a lovely place then look no further than Forever Cornwall. Great properties that are a real home from home.
Kelly J K
I would thoroughly recommend booking with Forever Cornwall, we have used many holiday companies over the years and in my opinion this is the best we have used.
Maggie M M
Very e ficient and polite. the holiday turns out as well as the service so far I will be very happy.
Michelle C M
We have booked our holiday through Forever Cornwall twice now and it has been very easy. The staff are professional, very pleasant and extremely helpful. Would highly recommend.
Elizabeth B E
since 2010
Forever Cornwall have always been so helpful with our bookings and have gone above and beyond when needed.
Sheryl B S
The second holiday we’ve booked through Forever Cornwall both times we’ve found them very helpful with a quick response time.
Jen M J
The process through Forever Cornwall was fantastic. Provided with all the info required for a smooth check in and stay. Highly recommend.
Anne E A
Excellent service from Forever Cornwall rom start to finish. e have stayed in several of their chalets over the years and always had a fab time and excellent service
Trusted Customer
We have used Forever Cornwall several times and have always had excellent service from them. The booking process is very easy and they provide detailed information on your selected property. We would thoroughly recommend them.
Adrienne J A
Forever Cornwall are a great company, would not use any other company to book properties in Newquay.
Kirsty S K
Best holiday company I’ve booked with. Great properties, knowledge staff, appropriate and timely communication.
Ash M A
Forever Cornwall are one of the best hospitality companies in the UK. They understand the needs of their customers and provide excellent holiday venues.
Julia M J
Always a joy to book with these people. Any problems quickly resolved. Have been using them for years.
Hillery C H
I like dealing with Forever Cornwall as they give a personal service and are helpful and cheerful. SO much better than online companies who know nothing about Cornwall and give appalling service!
Real Forever Cornwall Google & Feefo reviews from 2024/2025 with an average rating of 4.9/5
Tides of
FLAVOUR
Sustainably sourced seafood and thoughtful cooking on the Roseland Peninsula.
The Nare has long made a case for the value of tradition. This five-star country house hotel sits above the curve of Gerrans Bay, offering guests a slower, more considered kind of hospitality. Its recently refurbished Quarterdeck Seafood Restaurant is no exception – smart but relaxed, with polished service, timber panelling and views that stretch out to Nare Head.
The focus here is firmly on the food. Seafood is sourced locally through Wing of St Mawes, one of the region’s most respected fish merchants, ensuring quality and freshness are never in question. The kitchen’s approach is clear and seasonal, allowing toptier ingredients to speak for themselves in dishes that are refined, but not showy.
Among the highlights is a delicately prepared Cornish octopus, served with care to bring out its natural flavour and texture. Bluefin tuna, now returning to local waters, is offered in a single large raviolo –a rich, rewarding dish that reflects both the excitement and responsibility of sourcing locally. The Monkfish Wellington, a seafood take on a familiar classic, is fast becoming a firm favourite. And for those seeking variety,
the Fruits de Mer platter delivers a full spread of oysters, crab, lobster, mussels and more. Elsewhere, hand-dived scallops are paired with gentle citrus or crisp foraged elements, and there’s always a thoughtful vegetarian option – a quiet nod to inclusivity rather than compromise. Puddings lean towards the traditional, and the wine list is both wellchosen and generously stocked.
Sustainability runs through the menu. As well as foraged garnishes such as wild garlic and samphire, The Nare supports the National Lobster Hatchery’s “Buy One, Set One Free” scheme. For every lobster bought in, a donation is made by the hotel to support the release of young lobsters back into Cornish waters.
The Quarterdeck is open to both guests and visitors, offering a clear-sighted and quietly confident seafood experience that reflects the standards and character of The Nare itself.
With a welcoming atmosphere, set in 12 acres of Cornish countryside, Boscrege Caravan & Touring Park is the best place to enjoy your Cornish holiday. Only 2.2 miles from one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Cornwall, Praa Sands. Each of our luxury holiday homes comes with a private garden - Perfect for families and couples. OPEN ALL
YEAR
Luxury at OCEAN COVE
Situated in Bossiney, Ocean Cove offers an exclusive haven for those seeking a luxurious coastal lifestyle.
This scenic stretch of coastline, from Bude to Perranporth, boasts breathtaking views amidst a setting that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the work-a-day world. Ideal for those seeking their very own holiday home, Ocean Cove provides high-end amenities, exclusive properties and the prospect of a more laid-back lifestyle. Just imagine waking up to the sound of waves and ending your day with a swim at secluded Bossiney Cove just steps from your door.
Your holiday home at Ocean Cove means enjoying first rate resources that have been thoughtfully designed to offer you the best in coastal living. From state-of-the-art kitchens to luxurious bathrooms, every detail is designed for your comfort. “The facilities here are great and it is a lovely, friendly and quiet park,” says one satisfied owner. Owning a luxury lodge places you at the heart of some of the most remarkable natural landscapes that Cornwall has to offer. The nearby South West Coast Path, renowned for its rugged beauty, allows for invigorating hikes with stunning coastal views at every step. And if the weather’s not encouraging you to wander outside then there is an indoor heated pool complete with sauna and steam room for the exclusive use of the
private holiday home owners. There are so many things to do and see in close proximity to the site too. Tintagel and its castle are just 10 minutes’ walk away – inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur – for centuries this dramatic castle and coastline has fuelled the imaginations of writers and artists. Not far away you’ll find St Nectan’s Glen – a sanctuary for wildlife, woven with legends of fairies, piskies and spirits. There are so many more places to engage with – too many to list here!
Ownership at Ocean Cove is about more than just a second home; it’s about luxury, peace and community. “We love Ocean Cove and have had a home here for years,” enthuses a long-time owner. So, if you’re ready to elevate your lifestyle and join a community that appreciates the finer things, Bossiney in north Cornwall is your ideal second home destination. Schedule a tour with their team and discover your exclusive luxury lodge.
Mermaid Cottage is a charming thatched cottage located in the picturesque fishing village of Coverack. It combines classic bohemian charm with contemporary style, making it ideal for couples or small families. It accommodates up to three people (two adults and one child) and is dog-friendly.
The retreat has a cosy Cornish feel with features like a wood burner and roll-top bath, but the best part is definitely the show-stopping sea views. Its secluded garden includes a summerhouse, providing a perfect spot to relax, dine alfresco, or soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
Located just a stone’s throw from the harbour, the cottage is perfectly positioned for exploring Coverack’s delightful eateries, artisan shops and the South West Coast Path. For those seeking adventure, kayaking and windsurfing are available nearby, making it a dream destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Mermaid Cottage offers an idyllic setting, stylish interiors, and close proximity to Coverack’s natural and cultural delights. It is the perfect base for a quintessential Cornish getaway, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure. This enchanting retreat is sure to leave a lasting impression!
01326 567838
www.forevercornwall.co.uk
7 Whitehouse, Watergate Bay
Step into this first-floor apartment and be welcomed into the stunning open-plan sitting, dining and kitchen area. The sitting area is oh-so-inviting with a large teal blue corner sofa, characterful armchair and television. There is also underfloor heating throughout and a selection of books, games and DVDs to enjoy. The kitchen is equipped with an electric oven, ceramic induction hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, wine fridge and more. Special moments ignite around the large dining table, which seats up to eight, while the breakfast bar offers a more relaxed setting for leisurely meals.
7 Whitehouse boasts three lovely bedrooms to choose from. Bedroom one houses a king-size four poster bed, wallmounted television, glistening sea views and a large built-in wardrobe. Bedroom two provides a zip and link bed, which can be made up as a super king size bed or twin singles. Finally, bedroom three provides twin single beds.
Enjoy sun-soaked moments on your private terrace, wander the beautiful landscape communal gardens, feast at the barbecue area, or stroll along the footpath and reach the shoreline. 7 Whitehouse also has surf storage and a communal outdoor shower for washing off salty skin and sandy paws after a day at the beach.
01872 438411
www.cornwallhideaways.co.uk
Summer Competition THE ULTIMATE
We’re proud to annouce that we’re launching our biggest competition ever!
Kindly sponsored by St Austell Brewery, our special Cornwall Living ULTIMATE Summer Competition brings a bumper prize bundle from businesses all across Cornwall to ONE LUCKY WINNER!
Here are just a few of the amazing prizes so far... Competition draw date: 5th August 2025
Alfred Smith: Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker
Ally Fraser Makes: A pair of hand-crafted wooden shelves
Aloft: £100 gift voucher
Boddington’s Preserves: Gift box
Brian Etherington: £50 gift voucher
Budock Vean Hotel: One-night stay for two
Classic Cottagesl: £300 gift voucher
Cornish Seal Sanctuary: Feed the seals experiemce
Coverack Bay Hotel: Two-course lunch with two cocktails
Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa: One-night stay for two Isles of Scilly Travel: Retrun day trip for two
Ocean Cove: Luxury hamper
Penventon Hotel: Afternoon tea for two
Sophie Bagnall Art: Seafoam lampshade
St Austell Brewery: Two-night stay for two with dinner
St Moritz Hotel: On-night bed and breakfast stay for two including access to the wellness space
Tregenna Castle: Family two-night stay with breakfast, dinner and champagne
Over the coming weeks we will continue to add new prizes to the draw and aim to have up to 150 prizes to give away to one lucky winner! Our grand prize totaliser, as of 31st May 2025, stands at a combined value in excess of £3200!
Enter the draw using the link below or scan the QR code.
World-class day and boarding education for girls and boys in the heart of Cornwall.
Top 10% nationally for A-Level value added success.
truroschool.com/air
Fresh Air, Fresh Thinking
On Display
Showcasing local artists and art galleries.
1 ALCHEMY TILES
Deeply Loved by Alchemy Tiles
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage,” by Loa Tzu are the words inscribed on this stunning love hare tile, authentically Cornish-made and exquisitely hand-carved and inlaid by multi-award-winning Mel Chambers of Alchemy Tiles. Using ancient 13th-century inlay techniques, each piece is individually hand-carved (not painted) with beautiful images and inspiring words. All held eternal in earth and time.
THE STUDIO, GOLDMARTIN GARAGE, SAMPYS HILL, MAWNAN SMITH, FALMOUTH TR11 5EW 07768 193848 | info@melchambers.com www.alchemytiles.com
2 LIZARD ART
Little Owl – Drypoint Etching by Lesley Treloar ARPS
Cornish photo-artist and printmaker Lesley Treloar ARPS works from her dedicated studio, where she creates original prints using techniques such as etching, photogravure, cyanotype and collagraphy. Although a multi-disciplinary artist, it is photography that underpins all her work. Her passion for the landscape and life of this remarkable peninsula informs everything she creates.
Oyster Catchers on Crantock Beach by Vincent Basham
Vincent has a purpose-built studio adjacent to his home in Wadebridge, Cornwall, which has far-reaching views over the Camel Estuary. He takes inspiration for his seascape painting from the wonderful Cornish coast. Open from 10am to 4pm daily, these hours can be flexible, simply give him a call to check his availability outside of these times. Exhibition dates for 2025, Original Works Available & Limited Edition Prints can be found on the website.
Susan Fowler is one of the country’s leading pressed flora, textile, and mixed media artists, with exhibitions held in London, Cornwall and St Ives Society of Artists exhibitions. Inspired by Cornwall’s landscape of ever-changing hues, shapes, panoramic skies and seawater currents, look out for her new artwork ‘Dolce far niente – The art of being still’ being revealed at her solo exhibition at Tregenna Castle, St Ives, September 2025. 07799 160638 | info@susanfowler.co.uk Susanfowlerart www.susanfowlergallery.com
2
1
5 6
4
3
5 THE SOUTH CROFTY COLLECTION
Triple disc pendant by Sadie Reeve
Made using pure Cornish tin from the South Crofty mine, the triple disc pendant really is a little piece of Cornwall. All the jewellery and gifts made by the South Crofty Collection are designed and handcrafted in the workshop and available to view at the shop in Wadebridge. The shop in Wadebridge is open from 10am – 3pm Tuesday –Thursday, or by appointment.
Exhibiting internationally, Beth’s beguiling paintings invite the viewer to reflect on the world in a new light. ‘Bloom’ was made in response to the enchanting giant magnolia that was in full flower when she visited the lush gardens of Glendurgan, Cornwall.
Beth’s vibrant work recontextualises familiar objects, creating joyful, ambiguous and often dreamlike imagery. Follow her work on Instagram, contact her to purchase originals, prints and cards or to discuss commissioning a piece especially for yourself. 07869 286435 www.brichart.co.uk
Embracing barbecue SEASON
Words by Jude Kereama
There’s nothing quite like the taste of food cooked al-fresco on the grill; join me as I share some tips that will elevate your barbecue from good to great.
As summer unfolds over the rugged coastline and rolling countryside of Cornwall, a sense of warmth and vitality breathes life into its communities. The longer days, gentle sea breezes, and an ever-present scent of salt in the air create an atmosphere ripe for outdoor gatherings. And nothing encapsulates the Cornish summer quite like a barbecue full of seasonal goodies. Cornwall’s beaches, coves and clifftops make for an idyllic barbecue setting. On warm evenings, Porthleven beach fills with the sound of laughter and the smell of sizzling barbecues while families and friends gather together with coolers full of snacks and chilled beverages. Whether it’s a spontaneous get-together or a planned event, these gatherings reflect the Cornish spirit of community and shared joy of seasonal eating.
What sets Cornish barbecues apart is their rootedness in local, seasonal fare. The region’s seafood and agricultural produce mean that, in the summer, fresh ingredients are in abundant supply and they take centre stage on the grill. We are particularly lucky to have an abundance of great seafood that grills so well on the barbecue, such as scallops, sardines, mackerel, mussels, lobster, sea bass and gurnard, to name just a few.
I personally try to cook al fresco any day that has sunshine and I will find any excuse to light up the barbecue. But which barbecue do I prefer? I have mentioned before that we have used barbecues in both Kota and Kota Kai, and I love the smoky flavour I can introduce to all my produce. I personally like to use a Kamado-style barbecue which, once lit, keeps super-hot for hours, while its lid and different vents help control the temperature
of what you are cooking. I also use a Konro Grill which is a smaller style barbecue. It’s extremely flexible and you can buy a rack that sits on top of the grill at different levels so you can adjust the height and temperature you would like to cook your food at.
Then it is all about which fuel to use.
For the Kamado and Konro, I use a mix of Binchotan charcoal which stays hot for a long time and then add in some wood chips or different woods to flavour whatever I may be cooking. Of course, you can always just light a gas barbecue which makes life very easy, but I much prefer the flavours of the charcoal and wood.
I also think people should look at using the barbecue to cook different courses. A lot of the time, people throw on everything that they can at the barbecue at the same time, whereas I like to cook things at different times. I prefer to cook something like scallops,
and then maybe a few sardines. To follow, perhaps some marinated chicken thighs, steak and a few sausages. Let’s not forget for our vegetarian friends that vegetables grilled on a barbecue are just as delicious. I love grilling any vegetable on the barbecue but I have a couple of real favourites such as corn Elotes and Hispi cabbage with miso butter and Roquefort yoghurt dressing. For dessert, how about some barbecue peaches or apricot halves with clotted cream flavoured with amaretto and candied almonds? Or a chargrilled banana split? Grill your banana on the barbecue in its skin until cooked and then split and serve with vanilla ice cream, nuts, whipped cream, and tiny marshmallows. This is the perfect way to cook a barbecue for a long lunch or to make a special dinner by taking your time over each course.
Whether enjoyed on a sandy beach, a grassy field, or a sunny back garden, a Cornish barbecue is a wonderful way to enjoy food this summer. It also gives a break from cooking in a hot kitchen! Look out for some special barbecue events on the green outside Kota Kai this year; we intend to be using that green as long as there is sunshine!
Summer has arrived, and at Rock Distillery, the team has been busy bottling the season. Their collection of 22% ABV liqueurs, cut with Cornish spring water, offers a refreshing way to elevate warm-weather cocktails, spritzes, or simple pours over ice.
The journey began with the ever-popular Lemongino and Orangino; liqueurs made from fresh citrus and Rock Distillery’s Cornish Classic gin. Bright, zesty and full of sunshine, they’re perfect served over ice and topped with prosecco, tonic or lemonade.
The range soon expanded to include whiskey-based liqueurs, crafted from Rock’s triple-distilled, three-year-old Single Malt. There’s the smooth, nutty Peanut Whiskey Liqueur; the warming, spiced Whiskey Warmer with ginger and local honey; and the tangy, citrus-led Whiskey Sour, made with lemon and pink grapefruit – ideal with a dash of cloudy lemonade for a bright summer serve.
Next came a series of vodka liqueurs, all made using Rock’s crystal-clear Classic Vodka.
The Pink Grapefruit Vodka Liqueur is a lively partner for rosé champagne, while the Watermelon Vodka Liqueur is tropical and refreshing with cranberry juice and crushed ice. For something indulgent, the Toffee Vodka Liqueur with apple juice in a chilled martini glass is dessert in disguise.
Cornish-made and summer-ready, these spirited sips are perfect for garden gatherings.
Newest to the line-up are the brandy-based liqueurs. Smooth, flavourful, and made for summer evenings, these include Vanilla Delight, Apricot Fusion, Orange Breeze, and the nostalgic Brandy Snap. Each is finished with Cornish spring water for balance. For a twist, try the Brandy Snap & Lime cocktail: a measure of Brandy Snap, a squeeze of lime, and a splash of soda served chilled. Beyond the liqueurs, Rock Distillery continues to offer sugar-free gins, distinctive rums (including the new Dark Chocolate Orange Rum), whiskies, and vodkas – all 100% natural.
Visitors are welcome at the Wadebridge distillery and shop, or at their other locations in Tintagel, Bude, Padstow, Corsham, and Dartmouth. With tasting stations at each site, it’s the perfect chance to discover your next favourite spirit – and make this summer a little more rock ’n’ roll.
CORNISH ROCK GIN
Distillery and Shop, Unit 34-38 Clear Space, Dunveth Business Park, Wadebridge PL27 7FE 07486 536220
RockGinCornwall | cornishrockgin info@rockgincornish.com www.rockgincornish.com Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
The importance of
TAX ADVICE
Stephen Maggs explains this often misunderstood issue and why RRL’s award win matters for Cornwall.
Tax affects us all – individuals at all stages of life and in all circumstances, as well as businesses throughout every phase of their lifecycle. Tax is a significant consideration in most financial decisions and transactions, whether as an expense deducted from sale proceeds, income, profits, or from an estate upon death (often a substantial one unless managed). Frequently, this tax expense – in the form of liabilities –can be mitigated, or at the very least planned for, through proactive tax advice.
As we all know, the tax landscape is currently extremely volatile and has been since late 2023, when polling figures began to reveal a widening gap between the thengoverning Conservative Party and the Labour opposition. This period of instability culminated in the hotly anticipated Autumn Budget 2024 – arguably the most important fiscal announcement since March 2008. This volatility, combined with growing concern over the UK’s economic position, has led to a marked increase in demand for proactive tax advice. While tax advice has always been
essential, it is even more so in times like these.
“Advisory” and “tax advice” are broad terms and mean different things to different people. In this article, I’m referring to genuinely proactive advice, not simply pointing out which expenses are tax-deductible (which, while technically advice, is routine).
Routine tax compliance – preparing and filing tax returns – is, by itself, an exercise in reporting, not advising. For us, however, this routine is just the starting point.
We believe the real value lies beyond. We prioritise advice in everything we do. The compliance process should initiate conversations about tax risks and opportunities, opening the door to meaningful, forward-looking advice. Unfortunately, this crucial step is often missed, usually due to a lack of capability or attention from the accountant involved.
That’s where we’re different. For us, advice comes first. The tax return is simply a formality – a record of income and expenses – but the real focus is on guiding our clients with insight that can make a tangible difference.
Words by Stephen Maggs, Tax Partner at RRL
There are clear challenges around the availability and provision of tax advice, particularly for individuals and businesses in Cornwall.
The Cornish accountancy sector is challenging, with very limited tax advisory capability located within the county itself.
Cornwall has a sizeable and thriving economy, supported by strong, ambitious businesses that, unfortunately, are often not receiving the proactive advice they need, whether or not they realise it.
We are the only firm in Cornwall with a concentration of tax advisers and the tax advisory capability to adequately serve the needs of the many individuals and businesses across the region.
For example, well before the Autumn Budget, we proactively advised clients on our expectations for likely policy changes and explained mitigation strategies that could be implemented in advance. We carried out numerous planning exercises for clients, particularly concerned about possible changes to inheritance tax, which ultimately were announced. Two of these planning projects alone saved the families and businesses involved £14 million in inheritance tax. This was only possible because of our team’s ability to form informed opinions on likely changes, the conviction to communicate our speculative views clearly to clients, and the expertise to implement effective, pre-emptive planning through our unique and wide-ranging service offering.
This capability was formally recognised on 8th May 2025 when we won the prestigious and nationally recognised Tolley’s Taxation Award in the Best Single Office Tax Practice category, something no Cornish firm had achieved before.
This recognition highlights the exceptional expertise of our tax advisory team and the distinctive services we offer as an independent firm in Cornwall. It is especially rewarding given the national scope of the awards and the rigorous judging involved.
Ultimately, people and businesses often don’t know what they don’t know. Tax is a highly complex and increasingly technical field. Non-specialist advisers – including many accountants – simply aren’t equipped to provide the kind of deep, proactive advice that makes a difference. If professionals struggle to navigate the tax landscape, how can we expect the layperson to do so?
That’s why tax advice must be proactive –people need to be made aware of tax-saving opportunities and potential risks without having to ask.
I’d encourage everyone to ask themselves: “Am I getting the tax advice I, or my family, or my business, really need?”
RRL
Truro: 01872 276116
Penzance: 01736 339322
post@rrlcornwall.co.uk
www.rrlcornwall.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
DISCOVER MORE...
Tolley’s Taxation Awards
These highly prestigious awards are presented in a range of categories covering the whole of the tax profession, including professional practices of all sizes, specialist firms and those working in-house or in the public sector. This year’s event took place at the Hilton, Park Lane, on May 8th.
Introducing...
Cornwall Living people
, we’re always on the lookout for fresh ideas, exciting ventures and the people driving them forward. In every issue, we shine a spotlight on three standout businesses or events that are new to our pages – innovative projects we believe deserve to be on your radar. From entrepreneurial start-ups to must-visit events, these are the stories and passions that are shaping Cornwall’s vibrant lifestyle scene.
Our mission? To celebrate the new and nurture the exceptional. Each feature showcases a business or event that has never been covered in Cornwall Living before, giving them the spotlight they
Forward Focus
deserve and inviting you to explore what makes them special. Think of this as your curated guide to the best of what’s fresh in Cornwall.
We want you to get involved, too. Are you launching a new business? Hosting an exciting event? Then we’d love to hear from you! Simply get in touch for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue. Who knows? You could be the next to inspire our readers and become part of Cornwall’s thriving community.
Keep an eye out for the QR codes or URLs included with each feature – your gateway to discovering more about these incredible projects.
In the spotlight
Vet at Home
At the heart of this service is the belief that saying goodbye to a beloved pet should be gentle, compassionate and free from fear. They offer calm, in-home euthanasia for dogs and cats, carried out by an experienced vet who understands the emotional weight of the moment. Free consultations help owners decide when the time is right, with thoughtful support provided for aftercare and memorial options, tailored to each family's wishes.
www.vetathome.co.uk
Bonnie Steward, founder of Bish Art near Porthleven, Cornwall, creates intricate collages from plastic waste collected during beach cleans. Her large-scale artworks depict the very landscapes where the materials were found, highlighting the long-lasting impact of plastic pollution. From afar, her pieces resemble paintings; up close, logos and fragments expose the environmental cost. Steward’s work draws attention to ocean conservation while transforming discarded plastic into compelling, thought-provoking art. www.bishart.co.uk
On the horizon
Cheese at Wadebridge
Cheese at Wadebridge is a must-visit for cheese lovers. Run by Rosea Reynolds and husband Loz, this artisan cheesemonger offers over 100 cheeses, many made on-site. Their expert knowledge, gained from over a decade of cheesemaking, ensures top-quality selections from trusted producers. Customers can taste before buying, enjoy loyalty perks, and order for events. Whether you want a sliver or a whole wheel, this shop is a true South West gem.
cheeseatwadebridge
Bish Art
Hannah Gold Life Coach
Empower your journey through inspirational moments.
Hello, I’m Hannah. I love helping to empower people to improve their lives and achieve greater wellbeing!
Creativity Coaching
Use the techniques of artists, writers and performers (without having to be one!) to energise and empower your life.
Into the Whispering Wild
My own coaching method, developed from concepts in my book. Re-connect your senses to the natural world and let it show you how to thrive.
FALMOUTH | SOUTH CORNWALL | EPC C | OFFERS OVER £1,000,000
MARAZION
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HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT THE SANCTUARY
Leave a legacy – Leaving a gift in your will to the Sanctuary, no matter the size, leaves a lasting impact. You’ll help fund lifesaving rescues and ensure the Sanctuary continues protecting Cornwall’s marine wildlife for future generations.
Fundraise – Host your own event or take part in one of their exciting challenges, like a fun run or exhilarating skydive!
Donate – Every donation, big or small, funds the Sanctuary's rescue, rehabilitation and release programme and helps care for their resident animals, as well as helping to support their ‘Fund Our Future’ project to rebuild resident seal pools at the Sanctuary.
Finding
SANCTUARY
Situated along the Helford River, the SEA LIFE TRUST, Cornish Seal Sanctuary is more than just a visitor attraction.
It’s a lifeline for injured, orphaned and vulnerable marine animals. Every year, the Sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates around sixty grey seal pups from the Cornish coastline, offering them expert veterinary care and a second chance at a healthy life in the wild. With each pup costing, on average, £2,000 to rehabilitate, this cost doesn’t include special cases such as those needing surgery or extended medical care.
But their work doesn’t end there. The Sanctuary provides a permanent home to twelve resident seals and eleven Atlantic puffins, who, due to injury or illness, are not able to be returned to the wild. For them, the Sanctuary is their haven, providing them with a safe and enriching environment for the rest of their lives. Their inspiring rescue
stories provide the perfect platform to educate visitors about important issues such as plastic pollution, human disturbance, the threats facing their habitats and the importance of marine conservation. Working alongside The Beaver Trust, the Sanctuary also provides a secure woodland habitat for orphaned beaver kits to grow and thrive in their natural environment before being rehomed.
Visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary to see these incredible animals up close, learn how to help safeguard our seas, and have a fantastic day out! Dogs are also very welcome.
CORNISH SEAL SANCTUARY
Gweek TR12 6UG 01326 221361
seals@sealifetrust.com
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
“ Liberty is the equal right and heritage of every child of man, without distinction of race, colour or sex.”
EMILY HOBHOUSE, 1913
This is the story of Emily Hobhouse; an inspirational woman from Cornwall who challenged the social norms of the Victorian era and changed the lives of thousands of women and children during the Anglo-Boer War. A tale of incredible bravery, determination, and impact, we shine the light on how a woman from a small Cornish village shaped events a world away.
Step inside the Victorian Rectory, mily s childhood home, restored by e perts in painstaking detail, for a avour of her life as a 15-year-old in 1875. Here, a window into the past is opened, to reveal the everyday life of the Hobhouse family.
In the War Rooms history blends with cutting-edge technology, to create a fascinating immersive experience. This unique, sensory journey shares the resolve and courage of Emily and the women and children before, during and after the Anglo-Boer War.
We warmly invite you to dine in our beautiful, light-filled Restaurant, offering a taste of history on every plate, which serves South African heritage dishes from the 19th century. This extraordinary experience inspires optimism and hope, sparking curiosity and conversation.
New Family Pass
We charge an admission fee that will be taken upon arrival in the Welcoming Area. This fee grants you access to all of the wonderful experiences that we offer across our property, including the War Rooms, the Rectory and the Restaurant. Family Passes are now available. Details can be found online.
Open times: Wednesday 9am - 4pm. Thursday to Sunday 9am - 5pm.
