Cornwall may be where your holiday begins, or where you call home, but for those in the know, the moments that stay with you are the ones spent on the Isles of Scilly - whether for a spring day trip or a longer island escape.
Just beyond the familiar coastline lies a slower rhythm, quieter beaches, clearer water and islands that feel a world away.
Arrive by boat or plane and let the time unfold at its own pace – and for Cornwall residents, the escape is even easier with the special £25 Scillonian III day trip offer.
From the Editor
Editor
pring has sprung here in Cornwall and with it come lighter evenings, perfect for spending time in your outdoor space. With that in mind, we caught up with some of Cornwall's leading outdoor experts on how to make the most of your garden this season, from page 13. We're very excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Cornwall
Living Awards. If you own or love a business, details on how to nominate it can be found from page 4. We also look ahead to the Porthleven Food Festival (from page 34), a highlight in the Cornwall Living calendar as Porthleven comes alive with food, music and more! ...happy reading!
Ben Pratchett – 01326 574842 ben.pratchett@levenmediagroup.co.uk
Chairman & Founder
Andy Forster – 01326 574842 andy.forster@levenmediagroup.co.uk
News & Views
up with Cornwall
What's on
Common-sense appeal
guide to what's coming up
oil prices... time for a rethink?
Spring, framed well Conservatory spaces for brighter days
dreaming
spaces re-imagined
Measured garden making Taking care of our Cornish garden
Rooted in Cornwall
years of nurturing exceptional plants
man in the fog
Chef meets the Aussie Smoker
publican awards
Porthleven Food Festival
music and more
From beach walk to bar Discover Cornish Rock Gin
Serenity by the sea
Find your flow at Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa
Coastal escapes Our choice of Cornish getaways
Art in focus The work of Geoff Sheed
On display
Artists and makers from across the Duchy
Art news
Keeping up with creative happenings
Solicitude and attentiveness
Transforming lives across Cornwall
DO YOU LOVE OR OWN A CORNISH BUSINESS?
2026
The annual Cornwall Living Awards, as voted for by our readers, followers and subscribers, are set to take place in October 2026. Nominations are now open!
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.levenmediagroup.co.uk/awards to nominate now, or scan the QR code! Nominations are open until the 30th June 2026.
NATURE BRINGS SO MUCH JOY.
You can help future generations experience it too. Remember Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places in your Will. Wildlife Trust
What will we leave behind when we’re gone?
Every day, Cornwall Wildlife Trust works to protect the wildlife and wild places that make Cornwall so special. is vital work is made possible thanks to the generosity of those who choose to leave a gi in their Will.
By leaving a gi , no ma er the size, you can help nature in Cornwall not just survive - but thrive - for generations to come.
Your way to make a lasting di erence
To find out more about how a gi in your Will could help Cornwall’s wildlife, or to order a free brochure, scan the QR code today. Visit: cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/gi sinwill
Or contact Andrea or Lisa – we’re here to help: supportercare@cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk 01872 273 939 (option 2)
For the friends, for the families, for the visitors you want to entertain… Miracle Theatre takes to the road once again for a summer of outdoor performances for everyone to enjoy. Expect entertainment full of drama and laughs as one of Cornwall’s longest-standing theatre companies puts its magical twist on the classic story of Peer Gynt
No strangers to rural touring, this will be Miracle’s 47th year taking shows to outdoor places and spaces around the county. “There’s
nothing better than watching an audience settling in, arranging their chairs, blankets and picnics ready for the show… It’s a real joy to see people coming together to watch, whether we are in a castle, a garden or a village green.” Bill Scott, founder, Miracle Theatre. Keep up to date with shows, news and opportunities by signing up on their website.
For more information, visit miracletheatre.co.uk/shows/peer-gynt/ or call 01209 216 762
Unisex clothing brand Goose and Gander, has revealed a new collaborative clothing collection with Lucie Donlan and Luke Mabbott. Soon to be stocked in its new shop in St Ives, the collection features funky, super-soft cotton loungewear.
Founded in 2013 by Olly & Maz, Goose & Gander began as a passion project but has grown into a creative-led brand focused on producing original lifestyle clothing designed to feel like a true part of everyday.
For more information, visit www.gooseandganderltd.com or find them on Lifeboat Hill, St Ives. Take a gander
King Lear, 2022
Smiles in Truro
In the heart of Truro, tucked away within Tinners Court, The Treatment Centre is quietly redefining what it means to smile with confidence. A family-run practice with four decades of trusted care, it blends clinical expertise with genuine warmth, placing as much emphasis on the patient journey as on the final result.
At its helm is Anna, a highly skilled clinician with an MSc in restorative dentistry, whose meticulous approach shapes every treatment. Patients arrive seeking change – a renewed sense of self, a reason to smile freely. Through Invisalign and advanced restorative techniques, Anna and her team create results that are not only aesthetically refined, but genuinely life-enhancing.
This is dentistry as a form of renewal. Each interaction is guided by care, trust and understanding, recognising that confidence often begins with something as simple as an unguarded smile. Patients frequently describe their experience as transformative,
recalling consultations where options were patiently explained, and final appointments where subtle finishing touches brought longheld aspirations to life.
One patient reflects on feeling relaxed and confident throughout, while another speaks of the simple joy of smiling without hesitation, embracing photographs and new conversations with ease.
This is what sets The Treatment Centre apart. It is not merely about straightening teeth, but restoring confidence – a quiet, personal transformation. For those who have held back, it offers reassurance that expertise and empathy go hand in hand, right in the centre of Truro.
For more information, visit www.thetreatmentcentre.co.uk or call 01872 241955
Rosevean House,
Highlighting the best events across the Duchy, from festivals and markets to exhibitions, theatre, music and family days out. Whether you call Cornwall home or are visiting this vibrant county, there’s always something happening just around the corner...
OLLIE’S SHELLFISH PLATTER NIGHT
Friday 12th June 2026
THE ALVERTON, TREGOLLS ROAD, TRURO, CORNWALL TR1 1ZQ
Head to The Alverton Terrace for a one-night-only celebration of the sea. From 5.30pm until 7 pm, their Head Chef, Ollie Wyatt, will bring the best of Cornwall’s coastline straight to your table with an indulgent shellfish platter overflowing with fresh, seasonal catches.
For £40 per person, this intimate evening is designed for true seafood lovers. Soak up golden hour on our sun-drenched terrace, raise a glass and feast on the finest shellfish.
For more upcoming events hosted at The Alverton, visit thealverton.co.uk 01872 276633 events@thealverton.co.uk
MONTHLY YOGA NIDRA CLASSES
3rd May, 31st May, 28th June
SUNSHINE CAFE & YOGA, THE JP BUILDING, HILL HEAD, PENRYN TR10 8JU
Yoga Nidra or ‘Yogic Sleep’ is a guided meditation moving through various stages of breath, body and inner awareness. This brings you into a deep state of relaxation, landing in a sacred space between awake and asleep. Reduce stress, regulate your nervous system and dive into the realms of your consciousness. Each month we practice alongside the full moon. This is an opportunity to slow down, let go, connect to a rhythm of nature and invite a little ritual into your evening. Booking is essential.
01326 374779 | www.sunshinecafeandyoga.co
What’s on?
COMING UP AT THE ACORN PENZANCE Spring 2026
THE ACORN THEATRE, PARADE ST, PENZANCE TR18 4BU
Step into an unforgettable evening of Gambian music on 19th April with Suntou Susso, a master kora player. For fabulous female impersonation and a night ‘Frock with Laughter’, you simply must be at Ceri Dupree on 22nd April. Simply Dylan on 2nd May offers an unmissable tribute to Bob Dylan: no frills, no costumes, just great music. If country music is your thing, then Cash: The American Recordings on 20th May provides a foot-stomping homage. For a taste of local folklore, look no further than Legends of the Cornish Landscape on 27th May. Visit The Acorn website for their full programme of music, theatre and more!
01736 363545 | www.theacornpenzance.com
FALMOUTH INTERNATIONAL SEA SHANTY FESTIVAL
Friday 12th to Sunday 14th June
FALMOUTH TOWN
The world-famous, award-winning Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival will return to the Cornish port with three days of maritime music for the 22nd year running. More than 80 groups from across the UK and overseas will descend on the town for a jam-packed weekend of jovial song, harbourside harmonies, salty shanties and deck stomping choruses.
The increasingly popular event, which is the largest free nautical music festival in Europe, will once again transform the harbour, pubs, bars, streets and waterfront venues of Falmouth into a celebration of traditional salty songs of the sea. www.falmouthseashanty.co.uk
ALEKSANDRA KASUBA: SHELTERS FOR SENSES
Saturday 2nd May – Sunday 4th October 2026
TATE ST IVES, TR26 1TG
This summer Tate St Ives presents the first UK museum exhibition of the work of Lithuanian American artist Aleksandra Kasuba (1923-2019). The show covers seven decades of Kasuba’s wide-ranging career, from her early paintings and mosaics to her later sculptures and public artworks, including her innovative spatial environments. This exhibition at Tate St Ives will show a range of Kasuba’s sculptures, models, mosaics, paintings, drawings and collages from the collection of the Lithuanian National Museum of Art and will showcase Kasuba’s revolutionary ideas and experiments, highlighting her interest in utopian architecture for creating social harmony. The breadth of work and ideas on display underpin Kasuba as a great force in art.
0207 887 8888 | www.tate.org.uk
GENERATIONS
Tuesday April 28th to Tuesday May 19th 10.30 am - 5.00 pm
YEW TREE GALLERY, KEIGWIN, NR. MORVAH TR19 7TS
‘Generations’ is a guest exhibition curated by Christine Feiler. At its heart are the paintings of her mother, June Miles (1924–2021), accompanied by ceramics by Christine herself, paintings by her father, Paul Feiler, and works by her two sons, Ben and Paul. The exhibition also includes sculpture by Paul Mount, June’s second husband. June lived in St Just for many years, and a number of her paintings reflect the landscapes of Penwith, alongside scenes inspired by her travels in Spain and France. Frank Ruhrmund, Cornishman journalist, wrote of her, ‘There is a sense of peace in her work that passes all understanding… an artist who has never courted publicity, never owned a trumpet of her own, let alone blown it.’
01736 786425 | www.yewtreegallery.com
TREVINCE
March to September 2026
TREVINCE, REDRUTH TR16 6BA
Plant lovers, curious souls and canine companions are being warmly invited to explore the gardens at Trevince – the country estate in Gwennap, at the heart of Cornwall’s historic mining district – as the promise of spring turns to the bloom of summer, and its heritage landscape undergoes a period of change.
Its owners, Richard and Trish Stone, are opening the estate gardens on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays between 27th March and 27th September, from 10am to 4pm, and encouraging visitors to discover how Trevince is evolving under their guardianship.
www.trevince.co.uk
Aleksandra Kasuba: Shelters for Senses
A warm Cornish welcome awaits
At Cornwall Airport Newquay you’re not just a passenger; you’re a guest. Experience the local heart of Cornwall from the moment you arrive. Come for the wild. Stay for the warmth.
Open-airLIVING
Practical ideas for creating outdoor spaces ready for the summer season.
Words by JAMIE CROCKER
appeal of the inside of the house begins to wane in favour of something more expansive. Doors are propped open while furniture seems to find its way outside, into an unfamiliar setting. It’s a defining shift that occurs organically as the clouds begin to thin and the sun demands recognition.
Mealtimes stretch into the garden without
much thought; a sudden whim of fancy. Join us as we consider outdoor living spaces through the insight of local specialists who understand how to shape gardens that are both considered and easy on the eye.
ABOVE & BELOW
Borders, paths and fencing from Gardens Made Easy
Gardens Made Easy
The most effective gardens are those approached with the same attention given to an interior. Gardens Made Easy places emphasis on structure as the starting point. Rather than filling a space indiscriminately, they advocate for a layout that distinguishes between areas for dining, relaxation and movement. Subtle transitions underfoot, whether through timber or resin-bound surfaces, guide how a space is used without the need for obvious division. This approach allows even smaller plots to feel organised without appearing rigid. As owner, Olly Daglish explains, “Your garden should feel like an extension of your home, somewhere you can relax, entertain and enjoy the sunshine without the hassle. With solutions like our ColourFence steel fencing – storm-proof, longlasting and never needing painting – we help create outdoor spaces that are as practical as they are beautiful.”
PREVIOUS
Effortless outdoor spaces from Oltco
A well-constructed fence contributes to the overall tone, offering both definition and visual consistency. Materials that withstand exposure to coastal conditions bring reassurance, reducing the need for ongoing maintenance. When these elements are resolved early on, subsequent choices become more straightforward. Flooring, in particular, has a lasting impact. A properly installed surface supports everything placed upon it, from seating to planting, and ensures that the space functions as intended over time. www.gardensmadeeasy.co.uk
Planting introduces a different pace, one that relies on regular attention rather than a single moment of completion. Trevena Cross highlights the importance of ongoing care, with simple tasks that shape how a garden performs during the summer months. Removing spent flowers encourages continued growth, while keeping weeds under control prevents them from competing with established plants. These actions may appear modest, yet their effect accumulates, contributing to a more consistent display.
Seasonal planting remains one of the most direct ways to alter the atmosphere of a space. Containers, baskets and planters bring colour into immediate view, softening structural elements and adding movement. Choices such as petunias, geraniums, begonias and fuchsias provide variety across different conditions. While ready-made arrangements offer convenience, they still depend on regular watering to thrive. Containers, by their nature, dry out quickly, and rainfall rarely provides sufficient moisture. Automated watering systems have become increasingly popular, offering reliability when schedules become busy or during periods away from home. Katie Besford reflects upon this approach, “As we head into the summer season, it’s all about keeping on top of those key garden jobs – deadheading, watering, weeding and protecting new growth to ensure your outdoor space stays vibrant and healthy.”
Outdoor spaces are now expected to accommodate more than planting and seating alone. Kernow Springs has observed a steady rise in interest around garden saunas, reflecting a broader engagement with wellbeing practices. Their guidance begins with placement, ensuring that the structure sits comfortably within its surroundings, with the view from inside carefully considered in turn shaping the overall experience. Proximity to a cold-water source, whether a simple shower or a more immersive option, becomes part of a wider routine.
Design plays a defining role in how a sauna functions, with different forms influencing how heat circulates and how the space is occupied.
Capacity must be matched to the intended use, whether for a household or a larger gathering.
The choice of stove carries equal importance, determining both the quality of heat and the overall character of the experience. Martin
Dean notes, “As sauna culture establishes firmer roots here in the UK, demand continues to move beyond novelty towards informed, repeat practice. It’s really important to choose a sauna builder that supports that commitment, providing reliable heat, durable construction, years of experience and local support.” This reflects a broader shift towards outdoor features that support regular use rather than occasional novelty.
www.kernowsprings.co.uk
Patio Garden Furniture
Furniture remains central to how outdoor areas are experienced. Patio Garden Furniture emphasises durability, encouraging investment in pieces that will anchor the space over time. Teak continues to be a popular choice, valued for its resilience and the way it develops a softer tone as it weathers.
Comfort is introduced through considered additions such as cushions and textiles, which soften the overall look, while parasols provide shade during warmer periods. These elements can be adjusted as needed, allowing the space to respond to different conditions throughout the day. Emily Birtwhistle observes, “Outdoor spaces are no longer an afterthought; they’ve become a natural extension of the home. The key is to create somewhere that feels just as comfortable and inviting as the inside of your home, while still being practical enough to enjoy all summer long.”
www.patio-gardenfurniture.co.uk
Cornwall Ponds
Water introduces a new dimension to the garden, lending a sense of calm while enriching the overall composition. Successful designs sit comfortably within their surroundings, whether expressed as informal pools or more structured installations. Its presence reshapes how a space is experienced, bringing reflection, gentle movement and valuable habitat that supports and attracts a diverse range of wildlife. Thoughtful planning around filtration and upkeep ensures these features continue to perform beautifully over time.
ABOVE
Al-fresco dining made all the better with furniture from
BELOW A beautiful installation from Cornwall Ponds, taking an outdoor space to the next level
Patio Garden Furniture
outdoor living with a sauna installation from Kernow Springs
ABOVE
Cornwall Ponds brings a sense of calm with each and every installation
With a wealth of experience in this field, Cornwall Ponds approaches each project with both creativity and precision.
A well-conceived pond becomes a dynamic focal point, adding depth, texture and life to the landscape. Subtle enhancements, from the soft murmur of waterfalls, streams and rills to the interplay of jetties, stepping stones, and delicately planted bog gardens, help dissolve the boundary between land and water. Practical additions such as boardwalks and natural stone steps further enhance the design, improving access while inviting a more immersive connection with the garden and offering fresh viewpoints from which to enjoy it.
www.cornwallponds.uk
Wendron Stoves
BELOW
Wendron
Stoves brings warmth to chilly evenings so you can enjoy your garden from day to night
As evenings draw in, warmth becomes an important factor. Wendron Stoves offers outdoor heating solutions that extend the usability of a space beyond daylight hours. Fire provides a natural gathering point, shaping how people come together as temperatures fall. Some designs incorporate cooking functions, allowing food preparation to become part of the outdoor experience rather than something removed from it. For long, balmy evenings in
the garden this summer, the BBQube is the perfect companion, combining reliable warmth with effortless outdoor cooking and a two-year guarantee for peace of mind. Crafted from the finest materials to the highest technical standards, it operates like a wood-burning stove, with a simple air-flow lever and a glass door that lets you enjoy the hypnotic glow of the flames as you relax. Inside, a clever baffle system directs heat to the grill for perfectly controlled cooking, while reduced smoke and a discreet flue mean you and your guests can enjoy the garden in comfort and style. As managing director, Nathan Ward, observes, “What could be better than gathering with family and friends around a real fire, a traditional source of warmth that also cooks your supper? With the bonus of living in Cornwall, it’s pure bliss.”
www.wendronstoves.co.uk
Westcountry Blinds
Protection from the elements can transform how a garden or patio is used, and Westcountry Blinds offers shading systems that make that transformation more satisfying and reliable. Specialists in made-to-measure blinds and shading solutions across Cornwall since 2001, Westcountry Blinds pairs local craftsmanship with products designed to perform in outdoor settings. Their range of exterior awnings, supplied in partnership with German manufacturer Markilux, provides more than simple shade: these systems can extend living space by offering shelter from sun, light rain and breezes, helping outdoor areas feel intentionally prepared rather than improvised. Robust and weather resistant, these awnings can be complemented with first-class accessories such as LED lighting or infrared heating, allowing an outdoor terrace or patio to be used comfortably beyond the peak of daylight hours. Westcountry Blinds also supports customers throughout the process, from in-home consultations and free measuring to full installation, ensuring each awning or blind is tailored to suit specific space and use patterns.
www.westcountryblinds.co.uk
ABOVE
Enjoy the al-fresco life whatever the weather with an awning from Westcountry Blinds
Underfoot, materials continue to develop in response to both aesthetic expectations and practical demands. Oltco’s resin-bound systems have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners seeking a patio surface or winding pathway that balances durability with visual appeal. Compared with more traditional options such as block paving or concrete, the finish is notably more refined. Smooth and consistent, it creates a clean, high-end appearance while removing the issue of loose stones.
Performance is equally important. The porous structure allows water to drain through naturally, helping to prevent pooling, flooding and ice formation during colder months. This permeability ensures compliance with Sustainable Drainage Systems standards, a key consideration in areas prone to heavy rain. Strength and resilience add further appeal, with
maintenance being minimal, requiring only occasional sweeping and periodic cleaning. Designed for longevity, Oltco’s systems come with guarantees of up to 20 years and with straightforward installation and lasting performance, they provide a dependable foundation for outdoor spaces.
www.oltco.co.uk
ë ABOVE Create the perfect outdoor space from the ground up with
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AStorms and rising oil prices – time for a rethink?
fallen tree can block a road, crush a wall, or lie where it lands until someone cuts it up. In Cornwall this winter, it also reminded people of something fundamental – wood is still a fuel.
When the wind dropped after the January storm, chainsaws started, and stacks of timber began to appear beside gateways and farm tracks. It was an existential moment.
The storm in question, as most of us in this part of the world won’t forget too soon, was Storm Goretti, which brought winds over 100mph to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly causing widespread disruption across the county. Thousands of homes lost power and water supplies, and roads were blocked by fallen trees while crews worked to clear
them. The scale of damage surprised even those accustomed to Atlantic weather. Tens of thousands of properties were temporarily without electricity, whilst entire communities were cut off as fallen timber brought down power lines and blocked routes, causing general mayhem.
In the aftermath, the immediate concern was safety and repair. Yet the volume of timber brought down across the county also pointed to something longer term. Cornwall’s landscape is shaped by woodland management as much as farming. Trees grow, they are thinned or coppiced, and the resulting wood has traditionally supplied everything from fencing to firewood. Storms accelerate the process, leaving a sudden surplus that must
be cleared, cut and used. For households with wood-burning stoves, this local resource becomes directly relevant.
This practical side of domestic heating has taken on renewed significance in recent weeks. Across rural Britain, households reliant on heating oil have been watching prices climb sharply as conflict in the Middle East unsettles global energy markets. The disruption of oil supplies and fears about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have driven crude prices above $100 a barrel, pushing up the cost of fuels derived from it. Heating oil has been particularly affected because the market is largely unregulated, leaving many rural households exposed to sudden price changes.
In parts of the West Country the effect has been immediate. The price of kerosene, the fuel used in most domestic oil boilers, has more than doubled in recent months, rising from around 60p per litre earlier in the year to well above £1.40. For a typical delivery of several hundred litres, the cost now runs into many hundreds of pounds. That volatility has prompted government concern and an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority into pricing practices across the sector.
The result is a renewed interest in alternatives that are less tied to international energy markets. A wood-burning stove is not immune to cost pressures, but it operates in a different system. Fuel can often be sourced locally, particularly in rural counties where woodland management is part of the agricultural economy. Logs may come from storm clearance, thinning operations, or managed coppice rotations, creating a cycle in which the fuel originates close to the homes where it is used.
This connection between woodland and household heating sits behind the work of Wendron Stoves. Based near Helston, the company installs and maintains wood-burning
stoves for homes across west Cornwall. Each installation requires assessing the structure of a building, ensuring flues comply with regulations, and selecting a stove appropriate to the size and layout of the property. In rural houses where oil tanks once dominated the garden, a wood burner has increasingly become either a supplement or an alternative.
Part of the appeal lies in independence. A stove does not rely on an external supply chain in the same way as gas or oil heating. When storms disrupt power lines or deliveries are delayed, a stove can still operate. In January, as the consequences of Storm Goretti became clear, thousands of homes were left temporarily without electricity. In those circumstances, a stove connected to a chimney continues to produce heat without being dependent on the grid.
That resilience matters in a county where extreme weather is becoming more frequent. Storms may be brief, but the damage they cause can take days to repair, especially in rural areas with scattered settlements and narrow roads. A heating system that continues to function in the absence of electricity offers a reassuring measure of security during those interruptions.
For companies such as Wendron Stoves, that reality underpins their business. Installing a stove is not presented as a solution to every problem in the energy market. What it offers instead is something practical: a source of heat that draws on a local fuel and functions independently of international price swings.
At a moment when global events are pushing energy costs upward, that straightforward proposition has begun to resonate again in rural communities.
WENDRON STOVES
Unit 4 Water-Ma-Trout Industrial Estate, Helston TR12 0LW 01326 572878
www.wendronstoves.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
EXPERIENCE
DID YOU KNOW?
Forestry Commission guide “Wood is a major source of renewable heat energy and, burned efficiently, it produces virtually no smoke. As trees grow, they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2), incorporating the carbon into new growth and returning oxygen to the atmosphere. When the wood is burned, this carbon is oxidised and released as CO2. As a result, using wood from sustainably managed trees reduces net CO2 production (small amounts are released by the activities of processing and transportation) compared to using fossil fuels. This means that heating using wood can significantly reduce our reliance on fossil fuels while also reducing our CO2 emissions.”
Spring,
FRAMED WELL
Rethinking spaces to suit brighter, longer days.
Spring has a habit of illuminating a home’s small failings beyond the motes of spiralling dust from the seasonal refresh. The window that never quite shuts, causing the draught that tried to creep in all winter but was kept at bay by a cleverly placed cushion, the conservatory that is overpromising but under-delivering. As daylight lengthens, these irritations step forward, asking to be dealt with rather than ignored. This should be viewed as an opportunity –encouraging many householders to consider not just a repair, but wholesale improvement.
Philip Whear Windows and Conservatories has spent decades working with that instinct for renewal, helping clients rethink how their homes perform and feel as the seasons turn. Based in Cornwall, the company offers a full service, from initial survey, via manufacture at its factory in Redruth, through to installation, with a focus on products that suit the realities of the British climate rather than an idealised version that can be viewed on many a website. Colour has become an increasingly confident part of that conversation. Where once white uPVC dominated, there is now a shift towards anthracite greys, heritage greens and softer contemporary tones that frame a property rather than standing out starkly against it. The right choice can tighten a façade, bringing together disparate elements, particularly in older properties where extensions have been added over time.
Inside, the appetite for spaces that work harder has also grown. Conservatories are no longer treated as seasonal add-ons but as integral rooms, designed with improved glazing technology and solid roofing options that regulate temperature more effectively. Paired with bifold or sliding doors, they can open an entire wall of the home to the garden, creating a flexible area that responds to the day’s weather rather than being dictated by it.
This has clear appeal for those drawn to alfresco dining but wary of Britain’s unpredictability. A well-designed indoor-outdoor space allows for long lunches that begin in the kitchen and drift outside when the sun cooperates, without the need for a rapid retreat when it does not. It is a practical answer to a familiar problem, and one that has seen steady demand across the county. For Philip Whear, the work lies in making these transitions into something that adds value in monetary and aesthetic terms to a property. Good glazing that’s carefully fitted and robust conservatories alter how a house is used and feels. Perhaps it’s time to take a closer look?
PHILIP WHEAR WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES
Pool Industrial Estate, Wilson Way, Pool, Redruth TR15 3RT 01209 215759
www.philipwhear.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Spring and SUMMER DREAMING
As the days grow longer and Cornwall bursts into colour once again, spring is the perfect time to kickstart the transformation of your outdoor spaces.
Whether it’s relaxing in the sunshine, preparing for outdoor entertainment, or simply making improvements around your property, this is the season to start afresh and make the most of the outdoors. This year also brings another exciting summer of sports and parties, giving us even more reason to get those garden spaces ready for those England match days.
After months of being assaulted by winter weather, outdoor spaces will need a refresh. It’s all about reconsideration, fostering thoughts about the materials we choose for our homes and gardens. When planning outdoor improvements, many homeowners are now looking for options which are both great to look at but also environmentally friendly.
Oltco's Recycle Bound product offers a practical and attractive way to revitalise those
gardens. Its clean and modern finish works beautifully with a wide range of landscaping styles, from contemporary garden designs to more traditional Cornish cottages.
Whether you’re creating elegant pathways, welcoming driveways, or durable patios for entertaining, Recycle Bound enhances the look of your property while standing up to Cornwall’s ever-changing weather. Its seamless, permeable surface allows water to drain naturally, helping to keep gardens dry and accessible while reducing puddles and maintenance.
As sustainability continues to shape the future of construction and landscaping, innovative materials are becoming increasingly important. At Oltco, they are proud to be a part of this shift with this awardwinning product. The Recycle Bound solution incorporates recycled plastic into each
installation, repurposing plastic that would otherwise end up in landfill or in our oceans, providing waste a valuable second life whilst also creating a strong and durable product for your gardens.
Since 2019, they have reused the equivalent of one billion plastic straws in their projects. To celebrate this milestone, the company celebrated the achievement at Newquay Airport, demonstrating the positive impact of Recycle Bound on the environment. So, by choosing this solution, each customer plays a vital role in the journey against plastic waste, creating beautiful outdoor spaces while giving recycled materials a new purpose.
The impact of the installations is tangible. In each 20-square-metre driveway, approximately 60,000 plastic straws are repurposed with an average Recycle Bound installation reusing the equivalent of 30 years’ worth of household plastic bottles.
What’s more, you can create a truly personalised outdoor space, using a wide range of blends and colours to work with your property. Its sleek, durable finish ensures everything from casual gatherings to garden parties feel stylish. Combining distinction with eco-conscious design, you’re creating a space that works beautifully for your lifestyle while also making a positive impact on the environment.
Oltco are confident in the quality and durability of their Recycle Bound surfaces, which is why every installation comes with a 20-year guarantee.
One of the biggest advantages of the Recycle Bound product is its low maintenance. It minimises weed growth, prevents loose stones from shifting and keeps a patio, pathway or driveway looking sharp with very little effort.
Leading and recognised organisations trust Oltco to deliver sustainable, high-quality surfacing solutions. They’ve previously worked with organisations such as the Eden Project and Headland Hotel & Spa, helping showcase how recycled plastic can be transformed into durable Recycle Bound surfaces.
Oltco is also rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, receiving lots of positive customer feedback and being praised for the product and customer service they have provided.
OLTCO LTD
01637 540039
info@oltco.co.uk www.oltco.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
GARDEN MAKING Measured
Considered design, careful construction, and ongoing care for Cornish gardens.
Muddy Wellies Gardens approaches its work with a notification of intent – do the job properly, whether or not anyone is watching. Founded in 2008, the company has built a client base largely through recommendation, with many returning for further work or long-term care. That continuity is central to how it operates. Each project begins with a practical understanding of the site. Soil conditions, drainage, exposure and access are assessed before any design takes shape, ensuring that what is proposed can be sustained. The aim is not a short-term solution, but gardens that hold their structure and interest over time. Designs are intended to draw people outside and encourage regular use, reflecting the team’s own regard for wellmade outdoor spaces.
The same measured approach carries through to construction and maintenance. Landscaping is undertaken by trained, permanent staff who understand how early decisions influence planting and future management. Like the gardens they create, clients are nurtured through consistency by people who know the detail of their garden and remain accountable for its progress. This direct line of contact is a defining feature of the service.
Professional standing supports this way of working as Muddy Wellies Gardens is one of only six BALI-accredited contractors operating in Cornwall, a mark of technical competence and adherence to recognised standards. It reflects a commitment to horticultural best practice, not just in design but in the day-to-day care that follows.
Investment in staff underpins the business. Training, health and safety, and compliance are treated as ongoing responsibilities rather than irksome necessities. Two new apprentices bring new entrants into the trade, while existing team members continue to develop their skills through regular inhouse training.
For clients, the result is a garden that is properly considered, properly built and properly maintained. There is no reliance on quick fixes or superficial results, only a consistent application of knowledge and care that allows each space to settle and mature as intended.
MUDDY WELLIES GARDENS
Unit M1, Islington Wharf, Penryn TR10 8AT 01326 352022
info@muddywelliesgardens.co.uk www.muddywelliesgardens.co.uk muddywelliesgardensltd Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
This fantastic prize is perfect for those hoping to attend this year’s Royal Cornwall Show, giving the lucky winner access to the show for two adults over two days of your
Featuring art, food, property, interiors, interviews and more, from across the South West, DRIFT is a journal for the discerning. Receive 12 volumes per year and be part of an exclusive editorial society, with copies delivered to your door so you never miss a volume. Win a year’s subscription
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Rooted in CORNWALL
Trevena Cross marks 50 years of nurturing exceptional plants for Cornish gardeners.
Trevena Cross is celebrating a very special milestone this year as it marks its 50th anniversary. As we enter one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year, the team is proud to continue a long tradition of growing and supplying exceptional plants to gardeners across Cornwall.
Trevena Cross has never had such a wellstocked nursery. It is currently fit to burst with more plants than most people could ever imagine! All grown on site across 32 acres, this wide variety of shrubs, perennials, hedging plants, climbers, coastal specialities, growyour-own selections, bedding and patio plants will now begin making the short journey down the lane to the garden centre. This year, there is also a particularly impressive range of exotic plants and large specimen varieties, perfect for creating statement displays and adding structure to outdoor spaces.
As spring gathers momentum, customers will find the garden centre full of inspiration, with the nursery team having worked incredibly hard to create a real feast for gardeners and gardens across the county. Hanging basket production is also in full swing, with hundreds being carefully prepared both for customers and for local pubs and businesses, ready to brighten outdoor spaces throughout the area.
This season, they’re also thrilled to showcase a new selection of outdoor furniture that
combines comfort and style. From sleek, modern loungers to rustic dining sets, new arrivals offer a variety of options to suit all tastes and outdoor spaces. Picture yourself unwinding in a luxurious rattan sofa set with plush cushions or hosting a family barbecue around a beautiful outdoor dining table with stylish seating. Crafted from durable, high-quality materials, these pieces are designed to withstand the elements while maintaining their beauty year after year.
As the warmer months arrive, the Palm Tree Bistro will once again be opening the Tiki Hut, offering the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sunshine in the outdoor seating area. The team is also introducing their brand-new spring/summer menu, featuring fresh seasonal dishes alongside some of the much-loved favourites customers return to time and time again. It’s the ideal spot to pause during a visit, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the very best of the season.
f you’ve read any of my other articles, you’ll know that every great foodie relationship in my life has started with saying yes to something. This is no exception.
Words by Martyn Odell
AKA Lagom Chef
I was travelling around Cornwall with the family, carefully delaying my social media posts so as not to be mobbed by the three fans I have down here when Adam the Aussie Smoker bypassed all the fan-girling and sent me a voice note that simply said: “Come and see us and have some food YEEEEEEW.” I didn’t know much about what he was doing, but I love Aussies, so I left the family behind and pointed the car towards his shed underneath an aqueduct just outside Falmouth.
It felt very much like I was driving into a horror film. It was pelting down with rain, the road went from small Cornish road to no-road Cornish road, and my brain started running through the catalogue: Wolf Creek. Wrong Turn. The Hills Have Eyes. Then, out of the fog, I saw him: the man, the myth, the legend. Adam. Gumboots on, smiling and waving in that classically excitable Aussie way. The next hour was spent laughing, eating and smelling every piece of his cooking kit.
stories about how brilliant he’d been at their weddings and events.
Fast forward two years and Adam has moved out of the horror-film shed and taken over a proper space in Penryn, a venue dedicated to bringing people together over great food and a laidback atmosphere. Renowned for slow-smoked meats, vegan food made for meat eaters, and generous portions, The Aussie Smoker now offers private, fully catered venue hire, ideal for weddings, celebrations, corporate events, or just hanging with your ‘Framily’ (friends that are family). The walls are chalkpainted for the kids to get creative, and he’s even installed low-noise hand dryers in the toilets for sensitive little ears. The man thinks of everything.
I love anything smoked, so I was absolutely in my element. He served me a slow-cooked smoked pork belly focaccia with honey mustard mayo; it was unreal. Jordan, who worked for Adam, had baked the focaccia the night before. In that hour, I ate everything he put in front of me: ribs, pulled pork, smoked butter, smoked parmesan, rubs, sauces – every single thing left me wanting more.
pork, smoked butter, smoked
the toilets for sensitive little ears. The man
This wasn’t a man doing this as a hobby. Adam is an absolute wizard with the smokers
fog I’d been driving through! That was smoke him earlier, so here we go. Adam the
This wasn’t a man doing this as a hobby. Adam is an absolute wizard with the smokers and BBQs. And it turned out to be the moody fog I’d been driving through! That was smoke from local Cornish oak, slowly smouldering a pork belly for a wedding that weekend. Adam had basically written the script. I probably should have introduced him earlier, so here we go. Adam the Aussie Smoker, or Chief Pitmaster as he prefers to be known, has over four decades of BBQing experience from Western Australia. He’s been doing external catering for weddings, parties and events, as well as supplying his smoked goods to other caterers. When I posted that I’d been to visit him, I was flooded with messages and photos from people sharing
I haven’t been to the new space yet, life getting in the way, but I’ve had several video calls with Adam showing it off, and it looks fantastic. I’m a yes man, and even though I briefly thought I might never see my family again at the start of this particular adventure, I left with a friend for life and my passion for smoking everything reignited. What strikes me most about Adam is that he’s building a community, not just a business. He’s not just servicing his own success; he’s making sure other businesses get to profit from his talent too. That’s rare. That’s the kind of person you want to say yes to.
building a community, not
And one final tip from me: call ahead and make sure Adam is there. You want the full experience. I am sure he will be at every foodie festival this summer, so keep your eyes peeled! Struth. Crikey. Have a great day.
To enquire about venue hire: theaussiesmoker. co.uk/contact. Bookings are essential for lunch services and monthly events: exploretock.com/ theaussiesmoker.
It's a double win for St Austell Brewery at pub industry ‘Oscars’.
St Austell Brewery, the South West’s leading brewing, hospitality and drinks wholesale busines, is celebrating double success after being named Best Managed Pub Company (2–50 sites) and Best Sustainable Pub Company at the Publican Awards 2026.
This achievement marks the third consecutive year the independent, familyowned brewery has been recognised at the UK’s major hospitality awards, following wins for Best Brewing Pub Company in 2025 and Best Accommodation Operator in 2024.
Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive of St Austell Brewery, said that winning both Best Managed Pub Company and Best Sustainable Pub Company was an incredible honour. He added that the awards reflect the hard work, passion and talent of teams right across the business – from its pubs to its breweries and drinks wholesale operations.
He continued that the company’s managed pubs are where everything comes to life – from its beers and food to the people delivering memorable experiences for guests every day. To receive such significant industry recognition in its 175th anniversary year, he noted, felt particularly fitting, adding that he could not be prouder of the teams and everything they have achieved.
This year also marks a significant evolution for the business, with the
rollout of its refreshed brand identity and long-term sustainability strategy, ‘Crafting a Brighter Future’.
Emily Coon, Sustainability Manager at St Austell Brewery, said that taking home the award for Sustainable Pub Company was a meaningful moment. She explained that it recognises both the progress made and the company’s ambitions for the future.
She added that pubs across the South West, along with teams throughout the business, have shown great passion over the past year, bringing the strategy to life in their day-today roles and helping to drive progress.
Emily said the award reflects a companywide commitment as sustainability continues to be embedded into operations, adding that while there is still more to achieve, the recognition serves as a powerful motivator for the journey ahead.
Continuing its winning streak, St Austell Brewery also took home five bronze trophies for its first major rebrand in over 70 years at the Transform Europe Awards, which recognises excellence in brand strategy across the continent.
ST AUSTELL BREWERY
St Austell PL25 4BY www.staustellbrewery.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
TCornwall’s much-loved coastal festival brings food, music and much more to Porthleven.
here are few places where a tug of war might sit comfortably alongside oyster shucking, or where a roast dinner arrives with a side of stand-up comedy! Yet for one weekend in April, Porthleven Food Festival makes such combinations feel entirely reasonable, transforming this working harbour into a hedonistic waterside destination for all the family.
Running from April 24th to 26th, the festival has grown into one of Cornwall’s most anticipated spring gatherings, drawing chefs, producers, adults and children who come not only to eat but to take part. At its centre sits the Chef’s Theatre, positioned on the harbour head as both a literal and figurative focal point. Across three days, more than thirty chefs will step up to demonstrate
Porthleven Food Festival IS HERE
their craft, offering a rolling programme that keeps the crowd moving and attentive. Among those appearing this year are Tom Brown, Olivia Barry, Ross Geach, Pete Murt and Antony Worrall Thompson, alongside festival patron Jude Kereama, whose presence continues to anchor the event with a sense of continuity and local pride.
Watching accomplished chefs at work is a joy to behold as they demonstrate their craft, discuss their decisions and substitutions, and acknowledge their mistakes along the way to perfection. The format is intentionally informal and accessible, helping maintain curiosity and keeping proceedings rolling along. It is about spectacle and engagement, a combination that has helped the festival maintain its character even as it has expanded.
Elsewhere, the programme delivers a variety of treats without diluting the main course.
The Comedy Roast returns, pairing a twocourse meal built around Cornish produce with a line-up of comedians who are unlikely to treat the food with undue seriousness. It is a format that could easily fall flat, yet its success in previous years suggests there’s an audience willing to embrace something a little different. Food, after all, does not always require hushed reverence as though you were dining on nouvelle cuisine for the first time.
That willingness to experiment continues with the return of Naughty Nonna’s, offering two contrasting evening events. Friday’s supper club draws on Italian influences, while Saturday shifts toward a more relaxed format of meats, cheeses and wine, guided by sommelier Elly Owen. These ticketed gatherings provide a change of pace from the daytime bustle, encouraging people to settle down and relax rather than circulate.
New additions for 2026 suggest an event still willing to expand its appeal. Cocktails & Crustaceans introduces a dedicated space for seafood and drinks, with Kelp Canteen arriving from Falmouth to serve freshly prepared dishes beside a neighbouring cocktail bar. It’s certain to be a popular stop.
A short walk away, the Moors Village Fair offers something less culinary. With lawn games, an egg-and-spoon race, tug-of-war, and a community barbecue, its appeal is aimed at young families. Here you’ll find space to stretch out away from demonstrations to join in something as simple as a race across a field.
Education also finds a place within the programme through the Chef’s Table, a new series of food and drink masterclasses created in partnership with Sharp’s Brewing Co. Covering topics from wine tasting to knife skills, fish filleting, ceviche preparation and oyster shucking, it offers a more hands-on approach for those keen to take something practical away from the weekend. A beer quiz rounds out the offering, ensuring that not every lesson requires a steady hand.
Music continues to run alongside the food, with ticketed evening sessions on Friday and Saturday bringing live acts into the harbour setting, while free performances during the day keep the atmosphere active and energised. Sunday’s open mic, hosted by Spencer, provides a fitting close to the weekend, giving space for local voices and a more relaxed crowd.
Then there are the smaller details. Lunch with the Porthleven mermaids offers a moment of theatre for younger visitors, a reminder that the festival does not take itself too seriously.
What emerges over the course of the weekend is an event that transcends the trumpeting of food and drink alone –it’s a gathering that encourages sociability against a melting pot of entertainment. By Sunday evening, the stalls will begin to pack away, and the crowds will thin, but an impression lingers; one that continues to draw people back, year after year, to see what will happen next.
PORTHLEVEN FOOD FESTIVAL
@porthlevenfest
@ThePorthlevenFoodFestival www.porthlevenfoodfestival.com Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
From beach walk TO BAR
A Cornish distillery exploring flavour across gin, rum and whisky.
Rock Distillery evolved from a walk along Rock Beach with our dog, Blue. Today, our darling Blue has been succeeded by the ever-brilliant BluToo, and Rock Distillery has grown into an impressive producer of gins, rums, whiskies, vodkas, brandies and liqueurs.
Rock Distillery produces ten exceptional gins, all sugar-free and made from 100% natural ingredients: "There are no syrups or artificial flavourings – just the purest produce we can find. We have also created a fabulous dry vermouth, which makes a sensational dry martini. It pairs beautifully with several of our gins, but is a particular hit when matched with our Cornish Gold Gin to create a dirty martini. Simply add two-thirds Rock Vermouth to one-third Rock Cornish Gold Gin, stir, and garnish with an olive on a stick – just wow!"
The rum collection at Rock Distillery now comprises 15 distinct expressions. The two most refined are True Taste, a 57%
Navy-strength white spirit, and Victory Dark Rum, a five-year-old rum matured in oak barrels. Beloved classics such as Golden Vanilla, Coconut Paradise and Dark Spiced Pineapple remain available, perfect for instant cocktails. The newest addition, Cornish Rock Chocolate Orange, is expertly infused with fresh orange and rich dark chocolate.
Each Rock Distillery shop features tasting stations, inviting visitors to sample any of these exceptional rums.
Rock Distillery also offers a range of vodka liqueurs based on its crystal-clear Classic Vodka, which itself makes an excellent Bloody Mary. The Toffee Vodka liqueur, when mixed with apple juice in a chilled cocktail glass, becomes almost a dessert in disguise. Brandybased liqueurs are also featured, including the famous Brandy Snap & Lime Twist cocktail: a measure of Brandy Snap, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a splash of soda or sparkling water served in a chilled glass. A very special new brandy release is expected soon.
Whiskey production has been a focus at Rock Distillery for some time. Its first release was a three-year-old single malt made from pale barley, triple-distilled and aged in ex-French red wine barrels at a consistent 21°C. The whiskey is then cut with Cornish spring water. The elevated maturation temperature contributes to a richer profile and distinctive character.
At Christmas, the distillery released an eight-year-old whiskey, matured in the same ex-French red wine barrels for a full eight years at 21°C. This warm environment naturally accelerates ageing: for every 5°C increase, maturation effectively doubles. As a result, this eight-year-old whiskey achieves the richness and complexity typically associated with spirits aged for over 30 years.
To complement its whiskey range, Rock Distillery also produces a selection of liqueurs using the three-year-old single malt. The Peanut Whiskey liqueur is popular as an after-dinner drink or apéritif, often served with salted peanuts. Other offerings include the Whiskey Warmer, enhanced with local honey and ginger, and the zesty Whiskey Sour, crafted with fresh lemon and pink grapefruit. In total, Rock Distillery currently offers 11 liqueurs in a variety of flavours, designed to suit every refined palate. Visitors are encouraged to explore the range during a tasting session at one of the distillery’s locations, where they are certain to discover the perfect spirit.
CORNISH ROCK GIN
Unit 34-38 Clear Space, Dunveth Business Park, Wadebridge PL27 7FE 01208 851718 www.rockgincornish.com Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Rock Distillery has outlets in the following places:
Distillery & Shop, Wadebridge PL27 7FE
Bude Shop, Bude, EX23 8BH
Tintagel Shop, Tintagel PL34 ODA
Padstow Shop, Padstow PL28 8AN
Dartmouth Shop, Dartmouth TQ6 9DW
BY THE SEA Serenity
Find your flow on a Yoga and Wild Swimming Break at Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa.
Escape to the north Cornwall coast for a luxurious weekend retreat designed to restore harmony to body, mind and spirit. At the adults-only Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa in Newquay, a two-night Yoga and Wild Swimming Break pairs purposeful movement with time in the sea for a powerful wellness reset.
Begin each day with a nourishing breakfast served with sweeping views of Fistral Beach, before it’s time to roll out the yoga mat.
Across four yoga sessions, you’ll explore varied practices, including gentle Dru flow, the balancing contrast of Yin Yang, strengthening Vinyasa, and a restorative candlelight class to help you relax and properly switch off.
Then comes the unmistakably Cornish moment: a coached wild swim at Fistral Beach, with expert guidance to help you feel safe, confident and present in the waves. It’s invigorating in the best way. Afterwards, hot chocolate warms you back up, turning a bracing dip into a ritual you’ll want to repeat.
Throughout your stay, you’ll have complimentary access to Fistral Spa, the gym and fitness classes, so downtime can be as
active (or unhurried) as you choose. Retreat to the vitality suite: drift in the pool, unwind in the hot tub, then detox in the sauna and steam room. Add a spa treatment for an extra layer of indulgence (with 10% off during your stay) and enjoy 10% off GAIA Skincare products both inhouse and prior to arrival.
Each evening, settle in for a delicious threecourse dinner in the 2 AA Rosette Dune Restaurant to complete your day as the sun sets over the Atlantic.
Whether you’re looking to try something new, enhance your yoga skills, or simply embrace moments of stillness and salt water on your skin, you’ll leave feeling rebalanced, rejuvenated and ready for whatever comes next.
FISTRAL BEACH HOTEL AND SPA
Fistral Beach, Newquay TR7 1PT 01637 852221
www.fistralbeachhotel.co.uk
reservations@fistralbeachhotel.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
The two-night Yoga and Wild Swimming Break at Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is available from 5th-7th June 2026 and 9th-11th October 2026.
ESCAPES Coastal
Our choice of Cornish coastal getaways
Beautiful stays in Newquay and Luxulyan.
Copper Tree, Newquay
Escape to your own slice of coastal luxury at this stunning detached stone house, perfectly positioned just moments from golden sands and a short drive from Newquay.
On the ground floor, three welcoming bedrooms offer peaceful places to unwind. Bedroom two features a stylish double bed with views out to the garden, while bedroom three provides twin beds, perfect for children or friends sharing. Bedroom four feels wonderfully indulgent with a king bed and direct access to the garden. A contemporary family bathroom with a free-standing bath and separate shower adds a touch of luxury, alongside a utility and coat room for all your holiday essentials.
Upstairs the open-plan living, kitchen and dining area is complete with exposed stonework, a log burner and impressive bifolding doors that open onto a generous terrace. The master suite on this floor is a serene sanctuary, beautifully styled in calming coastal tones with a sleek en-suite bathroom and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame far-reaching views over the rolling fields. This tranquil hideaway promises complete comfort and privacy
Copper Tree is an exceptional home, making it the perfect base for exploring Holywell Bay, Newquay and the very best of North Cornwall. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality time together, it sets the scene for an unforgettable stay.
01872 438411
www.cornwallhideaways.co.uk
Dippers Cottage, Luxulyan
Tucked away in the tranquil Luxulyan Valley near St Austell Bay, Dippers is a riverside retreat that perfectly blends comfort and sustainability in a stunning location. Designed with both families and couples in mind, the cottage sleeps up to six guests in flexible, stylish accommodation. With a king-size bedroom and additional cleverly designed beds, it offers versatility that appeals to a wide range of holidaymakers.
Guests love waking to the sound of the river, walking straight out into ancient woodland, or driving to some of Cornwall’s south coast beaches and attractions. The interior is bright, welcoming, and practical with thoughtful eco-credentials and all the essentials for a relaxing stay, including private parking and dog-friendly facilities. Whether it’s a family break, a couple’s escape, or time with friends, Dippers delivers both comfort and adventure in equal measure.
Dippers demonstrates the qualities that drive strong bookings: striking design, flexible sleeping arrangements, a desirable yet peaceful location and year-round appeal. The combination of riverside charm and accessibility makes it stand out in today’s competitive market.
01208 895354
www.corncott.com
Curtains, Blinds & Soft Furnishings
in focus Art
GEOFF SHEED
Fog at Pendeen, oil on panel, 50 x 50cm
After gaining a BA (Hons) degree in Fine Art at Norwich School of Art, Geoff’s early inspiration for his work came from the Hertfordshire landscape, but frequent visits to Cornwall were always more inspiring, with the ever-changing weather conditions and variety of textures in the landscape. Now living in Cornwall, Geoff works mainly in oils and graphite, where he enjoys studying the light and atmosphere of the landscape through expressive brushstroke and colour. His art is a result of an emotional response to the landscape, where composition and mark-making play an important role in the execution of the work.
Geoff exhibits with Lizard Art Co-operative at The Stable Yard Gallery, Trelowarren, which opens with the Spring exhibition on Thursday, 26th March 2026.
Wild Flowers and a Wild Sea Dollar Cove by Simon Jewell
For Simon, painting is a process of building layers to create texture and depth. The rugged Cornish landscape and surrounding sea naturally suit an impasto approach. Working mainly in oils, he uses a palette knife, his fingers and found objects to shape thick, expressive surfaces. His work seeks to capture the mood and intensity of land and sea, translating the energy of the coastal environment into paintings that explore the interplay of light, water and atmosphere, evoking a strong sense of place and emotion.
Layered mineral greens, deep reds and the radiance of 24ct gold gather in The Tree Remembers. Created through slow, intentional mark-making, the work reflects the ancient ritual of tying wishes to sacred trees - a place where hopes are knotted into cloth and prayers are softly spoken to the wind. The textured surface, colour and gold hold traces of these offerings, suggesting that the land listens, remembers, and carries our intentions forward long after they are given. Stephanie is a member of The Penwith Gallery where this work first emerged.
@stephanie sandercock www.stephaniesandercock.com
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COLOUR & SPACE
Chasing the Waves at Perranporth Beach, original oil painting by Annie Rees
Explore the coast of Cornwall in the latest exhibition featuring the work of Annie Rees. From sunsets to crashing waves, Annie loves to create atmospheric paintings that bring a sense of freedom while celebrating the beauty of our spectacular beaches. Complementing the exhibition, you will also find prints, fused glass, sculpture, handmade jewellery and greeting cards. Supporting local artists is a core ethos of Colour & Space, alongside creating a warm and welcoming space for customers to browse and enjoy. Visit the gallery in Perranporth or shop online.
Michael Jenkin, owner and founder of Bespoke Surf, channels the Cornish sea and undeniable surf culture into functional, hand-crafted pieces to live in the home of any wave lover.
From coffee tables to full-size decorative boards, candle holders, wine caddies and even shelves and mirrors, there is something for everyone at Bespoke Surf. Have a look at his selection to find something for your home!
07856 594414
www.bespokesurf.co.uk
5 2
5 SUSY WARD
Large shallow bowl (28cm dia) by Susy Ward
Susy Ward has worked with clay since the late 1990s, creating distinctive ceramics and since 2015 in her studio at Krowji in Redruth. With a background in Ceramic Design and Technology and a Distinction in her HND, followed by study at Falmouth College of Art, her technical expertise underpins each piece. Through rigorous testing of materials and surfaces, she crafts refined short series and one-off works defined by confidence and thoughtful experimentation.
STUDIO G10, PERCY WILLIAMS BUILDING, KROWJI, WEST PARK, REDRUTH TR15 3GEW 07855102598 | www.susywardceramics.com
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6
6LINO LORD
Springtime, Helford Passage by Mark Lord
Mark Lord is a Cornish linocut printmaker, influenced and inspired by the beautiful coastline and traditional harbour life of his home county.
Working from his printmaker’s studio just outside Falmouth, Mark’s prints celebrate his deep connection to his Cornish heritage and are always handcrafted from start to finish, using simple artisan tools and time-honoured techniques.
Mark also offers a range of cards, gifts and homeware featuring his most popular designs, all of which are available online.
@linolordpress | linolord.com
A new gallery space in Fowey
The recently opened contemporary and fine art gallery, The Old Bank Gallery, is a curated sanctuary to be found in the of heart of Fowey’s Trafalgar Square on Cornwall’s south coast. Showcasing a rotating selection of original works from artists across Cornwall and further afield, visitors can join the gallery’s growing community of art lovers, with monthly preview nights, featuring intimate artist talks in the beautiful first-floor gallery space.
Further artwork can be found in the Old Bank Vault and gallery space downstairs where you
can also enjoy locally roasted artisan coffee, cake and a licensed bar, while enjoying the painting materials that are made available for all to use.
The gallery is already becoming an important artistic and creative hub with exclusive workshops, talks and events, as well as expert curators providing personalised guidance to help you find the perfect piece for your space.
For more information email info@oldbankgallery.com or visit www.oldbankgallery.com
Abstraction at The Old Bank Gallery
The Old Bank Gallery in Fowey are delighted to announce local abstract expressionist artist Dean’s forthcoming solo show. Dean paints in oils and acrylics, often on large canvases and says, “I’m inspired by vibrant colour and sound. I love the atmosphere that I experience walking along the beaches of North Cornwall.” Dean is also passionate about instrumental rock music and admits, “Music is a constant in my life and influences everything I paint.” He feels that in many ways, abstract art is like poetry, connecting with you on an emotional
A tribute to the sea
Vincent Basham is a self-taught artist who was born and grew up in Maldon, Essex. He was initially educated in Tiptree, where his paintings were first exhibited when he was a young teenager. Following those early days, his work has since been displayed in prestigious galleries in London, Essex, Suffolk and throughout south-west of England.
Vincent developed a passion for painting seascapes while living in Cornwall in his early twenties, where he also embraced oil as the primary medium for his work.
Nine years ago, he returned to Cornwall with his partner, Jane, settling in Wadebridge, where he now has a purposebuilt studio and gallery. A place that you can visited daily from 10am to 4pm.
Several of his paintings are available as limited-edition prints, with commissions always welcome; one of which, Harlyn Bay, can be seen above.
In 2026, he will be exhibiting at the Padstow Institute, PL28 8AB, from 3rd–12th May, 21st–30th June, and 24th–31st August.
For more information, visit www.vincentbasham.co.uk or call 07836 244983
level. Closely involved with The Old Bank since 2025, Dean paints there regularly. With a preview evening on Tuesday 12th May, the exhibition runs until 23rd May, and then into Cornwall Open Studios until 31st May, during which he will be painting there every day. Email him at deanabstractartist@gmail.com to find out more.
For more information, visit www.deanabstractart.com or call 07795 306700 (Old Bank Gallery)
KEA | TRURO | GUIDE PRICE
MYLOR
| WEST CORNWALL | OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £1,000,000
NANSTALLON | NORTH CORNWALL | GUIDE PRICE £1,350,000
SENNEN
Solicitude and ATTENTIVENESS
Personalised care; transforming lives in communities across Cornwall where help’s need most.
Heart of the South Care has supported people across Cornwall since 2007, earning a reputation for reliable, person-centred care shaped around individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Central to its ethos is continuity: clients are supported by familiar faces for as long as possible, reducing stress, building trust and allowing meaningful relationships to develop over time. For families, this consistency provides reassurance and stability, helping routines settle naturally.
The organisation’s carers are described as kind, patient and genuinely caring, a claim reinforced by both staff and client testimonials. Employees speak positively about strong management, high standards and a supportive working environment, suggesting that the company invests not only in those it supports but also in those delivering the care.
Services are flexible, ranging from shorter visits to full-time, round-the-clock support.
The agency works with individuals living with a wide range of conditions, including dementia, Alzheimer’s, autism, learning disabilities, brain injuries and complex clinical needs. Each care plan is tailored to the individual, taking into account personal routines, preferences and lifestyle, and is designed to evolve as needs change. A clear focus on reliability—turning up on time, following agreed routines and working towards personal goals—underpins the dayto-day service.
Communication along with transparency are key priorities. Families are actively involved, and the organisation offers ongoing support not just to clients but to their wider networks, particularly during challenging periods such as illness or end-of-life care. A 24-hour on-call service, available every day of the year, ensures help is always accessible. Clear contracts and transparent pricing further ease the often complex process of arranging care.
Robust training and vetting procedures are embedded throughout the organisation.
Regular DBS checks, supervision, appraisals and ongoing training in areas such as infection control, medication management and emergency planning ensure a consistently high standard of care. Risk assessments are conducted before support begins, with attention also given to matching carers and clients based on personality and shared interests.
With strong feedback from both clients and staff, Heart of the South Care presents itself as a dependable, compassionate provider focused on helping people live safely and comfortably at home.
HEART OF THE SOUTH CARE AGENCY
Health & Wellbeing Innovation Centre, Treliske, Truro TR1 3FF 01872 273559
Wake to coastal light, wander wild paths and linger over seasonal plates and local pours. Stay a little longer and feel a little more connected this spring.
