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Volume No3

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Exploring the relationship between form and finish

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01872 265 310 www.csa-architects.co.uk

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02/12/2025 15:12

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Drift /drift/

noun 1. the act of driving something along 2. the flow or the velocity of the current of a river or ocean stream

verb 1. to become driven or carried along, as by a current of water, wind, or air 2. to move or float smoothly and effortlessly

We invite you to continue your lifestyle voyage online.

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On the cover Halv Vessel – Christina Feltham, Tucana Ceramics – inspired by the half illuminated, first quarter of the moon.

As featured from page 34.

Image © Goodrest Studios

tucanaceramics.com goodrest-studios.co.uk

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DRIFT is published by: Engine House Media LTD Holbrook, The Moors, Porthleven, Cornwall TR13 9JX www.enginehousemedia.co.uk www.levenmediagroup.co.uk

© All rights reserved. Material may not be re-produced without the permission of Engine House Media Ltd. While DRIFT will take every care to help readers with reports on properties and features, neither Engine House Media Ltd nor its contributors can accept any liability for reader dissatisfaction arising from editorial features, editorial or advertising featured in these pages. Engine House Media Ltd strongly advises viewing any property prior to purchasing or considerations over any financial decisions. Engine House Media reserves the right to accept or reject any article or material supplied for publication or to edit such material prior to publication. Engine House Media Ltd cannot take responsibility for loss or damage of supplied materials. The opinions expressed or advice given in the publication are the views of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views

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or policies of Engine House Media Ltd. It is suggested that further advice is taken over any actions resulting from reading any part of this magazine.

Engine House Media Ltd is a multi-platform media business with a passion for everything Cornish. Visit www.enginehousemedia.co.uk to find out more.

Our mission is to create READ-WATCH-EXPERIENCE media opportunities marrying together consumers with the fabulous businesses across Cornwall.

Our publishing and marketing teams are specialists in creating print and on-line communications, devised to achieve a range of marketing objectives. With over 20 years of marketing, brand management and magazine experience we develop effective communications that deliver your message in a credible and creative way. We operate across all media channels, including: print, online and video.

05/01/2026 13:05

C R E AT E

Foreword DRIFT London arrives with the same purpose that shaped its beginnings: to assemble a collection of stories that speak to an audience seeking something led by discernment and style. Here, a luxurious world is inferred through choices that favour depth over display. The tone is measured, offering readers access to places, ideas and work that subtly leave their imprint. Across these pages, each feature reveals a distinct approach to experience. Josephine Ashby, from coastal agency John Bray Estates, reflects on a year of success, offering perspective in a shifting market, but one where Cornwall’s allure remains undiminished (10). Interior design studio Thirty Stories, reveals how rooms can begin with narrative and conclude with definition (16). At Porsche Centre Exeter, a re-examined automotive destination points toward a new way to consider time well spent (24). A career that began in fashion finds new life in oceaninspired artwork, as we discover how Gemma

Lessinger draws from memory and tide (30), while hand-built ceramics demonstrate how form can frame story (34). Accommodation appears in varied forms. Heritage meets modern expectation as we escape the everyday and experience the magic of Boringdon Hall, an enchanted place on the hill (36). Carpenter Oak’s buildings are designed to endure (44), where the character of the timber influences how spaces are experienced, strengthening the relationship between inside and out. Coastal leisure is broadened through retreats defined by scale and service rather than trend. The Point at Polzeath is a case in point, built on a reputation of luxury stays. Hospitality remains a thread, whether found in South West pubs with rooms that showcase a region’s welcome (56) or hotels that foreground wellbeing and the restorative pull of the sea (70). DRIFT London offers entry to an editorial space shaped for readers who recognise value when it is present.

Our contributors

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Lucy Studley

Martin Holman

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05/01/2026 13:05

Escape to Cornwall This Winter

Adventure isn’t seasonal. Neither is Cornwall.

Fly proper local for your next great escape...

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Your gateway to the wild Did you know you can fly to Cornwall from Gatwick or Stansted? Enjoy blissfully uncomplicated travel and escape the January blues. Scan to discover more and book your wild Cornish adventure.

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C O N T E N T S

At a glance 10

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Finding sun, solace and serenity

PRIME PERSPECTIVES

John Bray Estates shares its insight behind a year of success

at St Moritz Hotel

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T H E I NSI DE STORY

An interior design studio where architecture

ophie Velzian’s ‘My Helford Sketchbook’ S is celebratory of place

leads and artistry follows

THE SHAPE OF EXPERIENCE 24

84 A S E N S E O F P E R S O N A L I T Y

Porsche Centre Exeter, is redefining luxury as time well spent

Old-world charm meets modern luxury at one of Cornwall’s most enduring hotels

THE TEXTURES OF LIFE 30

90 A W O R L D A W A Y

Gemma Lessinger’s journey is one that weaves memory and the sea

A destination that boasts five-star comfort with the natural world right on its doorstep

34 F R O M T H E F L A M E S

Unique, contemporary hand-built statement

98 R I S I N G A B O V E T H E O R D I N A R Y Situated in one of the country’s most appealing locations, The Soar, offers a peaceful bolt hole

pieces, that each carry a story of their own

36 G R A N D S E R E N I T Y

Escape the everyday and experience the magic

104 E X T E N D I N G T H E A P P E A L

of an enchanted place on the hill

Cornwall holiday cottages now offer guests connective alpaca experiences

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FR AMED FOR PURPOSE

Carpenter Oak designs and builds enduring,

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bespoke buildings with structural timber

Three historic hotels reveal a combination of heritage and hospitality

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TO THE POINT

A comprehensive coastal retreat is redefining

120 S A L V E D B Y T H E S E A

North Cornwall holidays

Time by the sea can salve the stresses of life and supercharge fitness effects

H E R I TAGE BY T H E SE A 56

Authentic South West hospitality in some of the region’s most charming pubs with rooms

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126 C A P T U R I N G T H E K A L E I D O S C O P E The new Aya collection from Michael Spiers

BEYON D J UST C A BI N ET RY

128 T H E P L O T T H I C K E N S

Transforming reclaimed materials into customisable luxury surfaces

A new novel that is both entertaining and authentic

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Prime

PERSPECTIVES WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

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P RO P E RT Y

Even in a climate of uncertainty, Cornwall’s allure remains undiminished. From landmark coastal sales to a growing reach, John Bray Estates shares their insight behind a year of success.

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While recent stamp duty rises and council tax increases on second homes have created additional pressures, the UK continues to offer a stable and attractive environment for property investment. Many British buyers are looking beyond the noise of global uncertainty and taking a longer-term view, favouring the familiarity and reliability of trusted locations.

Coupled with shifting legislation across Europe and increasingly oppressive summer temperatures on the continent, Britain’s coastal hotspots feel more desirable than ever.

rom elections and budgetary pressures to fluctuating mortgage rates and global political instability, uncertainty has undoubtedly been the defining theme of the year. Yet through it all, one constant remains: the enduring appeal of Cornwall.

For John Bray Estates, the past twelve months have been shaped by a market that has consistently defied the gravitational pull of national pessimism.

As Managing Partner Josephine Ashby notes, “Success in this market has required committed sellers and we have real evidence of price changes almost instantly resulting in sales being agreed. It’s no longer enough to be best in class; prime property equally needs to feel fairly and attractively priced. The combination of both is what is motivating buyers.”

North Cornwall remains a spectacular natural playground; its sweep of beaches, dramatic coastal paths and world-class golf courses form the backdrop to daily life. The team at John Bray feel fortunate to be right at the heart of it.

INSET Sound advice kept sensitive negotiations on track at Torquil, Daymer Bay

PREVIOUS Private Sale, Crantock, Newquay transacted in under 28 days

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P RO P E RT Y

As Josephine explains, “It’s because we live here ourselves that we understand it so well. Despite being a holiday destination, the area maintains a vibrant community.”

the market hard; it requires nimbleness, determination, and pragmatism from all parties.”

Long-standing trust in the agency undoubtedly plays a role, but it is their results that are igniting sellers’ confidence, especially as the business extends its reach across the Seven Bays and beyond. “We are certainly gaining traction beyond our traditional patch with expansion into Porthcothan, Constantine Bay and Trevone, and what is deeply reassuring is that despite every gloomy economic and political headline, people are still coming. They are still moving. They are still buying.

They have every reason not to, but the fact that they are is hugely reassuring. This also applies to the market within Cornwall, which has become much more accessible than in recent years. This is because there’s more time, much more choice and the prices have levelled.”

Against a backdrop of difficult headlines and economic, social and environmental pressures, John Bray Estates has recorded a strong final two quarters. “It’s a myth that nothing’s selling,” she continues.

“Granted, the market is tricky at the moment, but we have continued to transact on a healthy level of property along with some landmark sales.”

Chief among these was Sand Dunes in Mawgan Porth, a record-breaking residential transaction in Cornwall, and an extraordinary home defined by an exceptional position and distinguished architectural design. Another standout moment was the sale of the iconic St Enodoc Hotel to Paul and Emma Ainsworth, signalling a significant new chapter for both the couple and this much-loved local institution.

This levelling has opened the door to exceptional opportunities – perhaps none more compelling than Whins in New Polzeath, brought to market for the first time in a century. “This will be another landmark sale for John Bray which we will achieve by giving clear, positive advice to our sellers. You cannot overpitch or overvalue in the current market. So, having difficult conversations and giving firm advice is one of the

Holding over 64% of the market share in property sales above £1 million, John Bray Estates is managing an increasing number of high-value transactions. “It’s very easy to rest on your laurels and say it’s all very difficult and that nothing will happen. However, ultimately, as we’ve proved, it can happen if you work

A B OV E Tregwyn, Port Quin was agreed well over the asking price

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TOP Chyanna, Polzeath offers easy access to North Cornwall’s spectacular coast

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A B OV E Sand Dunes, Mawgan Porth was a landmark sale for Cornwall

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TOP LEFT The waterfront property Old Kiln, in Rock, received multiple bids

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TO P R I G H T Beniguet, Greenaway is proof that Cornwall remains as sought-after as ever

A B OV E Whins, New Polzeath is available for the first time in 100 years

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P RO P E RT Y

all else. “This ethos underpins everything,” explains Josephine. “Trust is our foundation.

It’s never about us, it’s about investing the time to guide our clients, so that they feel informed, supported, and completely confident. The last fifty years have taught us that we’re just one part of a much bigger journey. We simply love this corner of Cornwall, and we understand what people hope to achieve here, because we share those hopes too.”

single most valuable things we’ve done this year.

Despite that, there have still been those spikes of really, truly exceptional numbers being achieved, against all odds. Above all, we are here to give grounded advice in every sector.”

With a half-century legacy, John Bray Estates may possess decades of expertise in the area, but as a business they see themselves as 50 years young. People remain at the heart of everything they do: buyers, sellers, and generations of loyal clients whose relationships they value above

johnbrayestates.co.uk

A B OV E A pragmatic approach delivered a strong result at Llawnroc, Porthcothan Bay

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The inside

STORY WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

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I N SPI R AT I O N

An interior design studio where architecture leads and artistry follows. For Thirty Stories, every room begins with its own narrative.

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eclectic – to create layered, nuanced interiors that feel alive and personal. Each timeless design takes its cues from the client’s brief and the period and personality of the house, resulting in spaces that are unmistakably Thirty Stories: in essence, never off-the-shelf.

he pairing behind Thirty Stories – Frankie Pritchard and Indie Robinson – has somewhat reimagined the South West’s interior design narrative, bringing an unpredictability that transcends functionality. “We feel that interiors shouldn’t feel boxed in by trends. We believe in design that allows properties to truly stand out in a competitive market,” they explain.

Thirty Stories’ approach is rooted in personality and character: “We love sourcing antiques and unique pieces that can either take centre stage with bold, eclectic flair or gently complement a contemporary, minimal aesthetic. Antiques shouldn’t be considered oldfashioned, rather an opportunity to introduce depth and texture into modern living spaces and to begin a conversation between old and new.”

Bespoke products by local makers and commissioned artwork, are central to the Thirty Stories ethos: “Every project we touch carries a sense of place and personality, whether it’s a sun-drenched Cornish retreat or a city apartment abroad. We’re set up to work wherever our clients are, bringing the same creativity and attention to detail to every corner of the country and beyond.” What results are designs that tell the story of a home and those who dwell in it. These are always distinctive, considered and sometimes, completely unexpected.

Frankie and Indie’s work is not defined by a particular style, instead they blend genres – Mediterranean, industrial, Art Deco, rustic,

In conversation with Frankie and Indie I was curious to learn more about the process behind the plot.

INSET Indie Robinson and Frankie Pritchard

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I N SPI R AT I O N

that goes on behind the scenes of any Thirty Stories project: “We pride ourselves on dealing with and juggling a host of things that the client never sees. In doing so, we remove all of the stress and unnecessary decision making which saves on both time and money. True interior design should go hand in hand with project management in order to create something truly special and exclusive.”

“Although it’s never too late to get us involved,” explains Frankie, “we would always advise bringing us on board as early as possible. If you’re thinking of phoning an architect, then you also need to be phoning us. We like to design cohesively, considering everything at once, in order to ensure a flow from inside to out. Especially if it’s a large project, it’s always good to involve us early on so we can work closely with the architect and the relevant trades to ensure no stone is left unturned before work gets underway.”

While being detail-oriented, Frankie and Indie also like to think of themselves as disruptors, unafraid to challenge the traditional interior design landscape and bold enough to break a design ‘rule’ or two. “Asymmetry and imperfection, clashing fabrics, clashing colours, mixing metals, acquiring something unusual and using it within the design… all of these approaches actually create balance, steering away from a design that feels too contrived,” adds Frankie. “We quite often have a gut feeling about a design or room; even when shopping for bespoke pieces, we get a feel for what will look good in each project and space.

Antiques and commissioned pieces can take projects to different and unexpected outcomes. We love the creative process of finding these items and have learned that not everything has to be certain or planned from the beginning.”

Frankie and Indie work with clients as closely or as independently as is required, but the common thread is that they always view the design as a whole. It’s this approach that minimises impact should things need altering and by delving into every detail, it removes a level of stress from the client.

The duo’s expertise spans the full interior design gamut; specialist kitchen and bathroom designs, lighting design, internal and external layouts, technical specification, project management and finishes. “Think of every decision that needs to be made finish-wise when building a house,” continues Indie, “and that is what we do and how we will organise and plan. We are involved from start to finish in renovations and builds and heavily contribute to decision making and management of each project. On our last project, we were picking things as small as guttering colours!”

For Thirty Stories, each property is individual in terms of inspiration and the feeling they get from it to begin with. The same goes for client inspiration, meaning every project has a different starting point

Project management, particularly in a renovation or build, is an often invisible yet essential process

INSET Antique finds add intriguing layers of detail

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Crafts movement, which aimed to restore the value of craftsmanship and revive traditional skills in the modern era. We can definitely already see a shift in this direction, but would love to see more."

which leads the pair on different paths every time.

“We never replicate designs, although our work process is tried and tested, resulting in homes that feel layered, interesting, homely, lived in and unique.“

A Thirty Stories project will always stand the test of time. Simply put, this is a studio where designs are done well, intended to last long beyond fashions and fads that inevitably date and fade. A Thirty Stories home is designed as just that – a home. And, as the saying goes… that is where the heart is.

And in terms of a renaissance in interior design, what does the future hold for Thirty Stories? “As much as we love a contemporary build, and minimalist style definitely has its place, we believe that craftsmanship and intricate detailing within the bones of the building should be brought back into modern architecture and building; much as it was during the Arts and

thirtystories.co.uk

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The shape

of EXPERIENCE WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

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TO RQU E

Reshaping what it means to arrive, Porsche Centre Exeter, is redefining luxury as time well spent.

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“We’ve moved away from having traditional waiting areas and now have customer lounges,” explains Centre Principal Gareth Thomas.

“People can come and have a coffee. They can charge their car, meet friends, even work from the centre.

They are invited to use it to suit them.”

uxury has always been a mirror to its moment. Once, it was about polish and prestige, chrome and command, a vision of the world as something to be conquered. Today, the meaning of luxury has softened, widened, slowed. It’s no longer simply about ownership but about experience; not just possession, but presence. In a culture where time is both rare and restless, the most precious thing a brand can offer is not an object, but a moment that feels entirely one’s own.

That phrase – to suit them – encapsulates everything about Porsche’s reimagined philosophy.

This is no longer simply a glass-andsteel temple to horsepower, but an experience attuned to contemporary life. The Exeter centre feels more like a boutique hotel or a quietly confident restaurant than a car dealership.

The lines are softer, the materials more organic, with wood and fabric where once there was chrome and leather.

The scent of coffee replaces the tang of polish.

“It’s about making it more relaxed,” Gareth says, “but still luxurious and professional.”

It’s this idea, of time as the ultimate luxury, that is at the heart of the new Destination Porsche Centre in Exeter. Conceived as a sanctuary rather than a showroom, it is a space where the transactional yields to the tactile, where conversation takes precedence over salesmanship and where every detail has been designed to encourage curiosity and connection.

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TO RQU E

Gone, too, is a static grid of tightly packed vehicles. Instead, each car is given space to breathe, carefully positioned through the interior as part of the flow of the room.

As if a nod to Porsche’s roots in motorsport, a ‘racing line’ guides customers through the Centre, “The cars complement the environment,” Gareth continues, “and we’ll never have more than eleven on the showroom floor at any one time.”

Time, though, remains the constant. “It could take numerous visits, or it could be done in fortyfive minutes,” Gareth admits. “It really depends on the customer. We have to spend the amount of time that’s right for each individual.” This flexibility marks a profound departure from the rigid sales systems of the past. Gone are the uniform scripts and stopwatch service models.

“The motor trade used to have a very rigid sales process,” adds Gareth. “What we do here, turns that on its head. You’ve got to spend the time the customer needs rather than what is dictated.”

In an age where the digital experience often eclipses the physical, this move towards atmosphere and tactility feels a little radical. The space invites you to linger, not as a consumer, but as a guest. Here, Porsche has distilled the art of hospitality into a new kind of commerce: one that recognises that the most meaningful encounters often happen over coffee, not across a desk. There are lounges where customers are invited to sit down and chat over a coffee or a bite to eat. It is, quite literally, a conversation piece.

In truth, with the accessibility of information on the web, many Porsche buyers now arrive knowing almost everything about the car before they step through the doors as Gareth acknowledges: “When they come in, they may have already built the car online, but still want to have that personal connection when placing their order.” It’s a telling distinction. In a world of algorithms and instant purchases, that what’s valuable is not the click but the conversation and the reassurance that someone understands why you’ve made your choices, not just what you’ve chosen.

A shift from transaction to transformation is mirrored in the way Porsche now sells its cars.

“It’s a lot more consultative,” Gareth explains.

“When you’re buying a Porsche, there are so many different specifications, colours, combinations, you really do need to spend time getting it right.”

The result is an experience that unfolds like a story and one that continues long after the sale is complete. “If you are really able get to know your customers,” says Gareth, “it benefits the whole Porsche journey for both parties.” Handover – a word that, in most industries, implies a brief, perfunctory exchange – is redefined at Porsche Exeter becoming almost a moment of theatre. “We’ve got two huge handover bays and they are the biggest I’ve ever seen in all my time in the motor trade,” says Gareth. The practicalities

In a glass-fronted fitting lounge, this philosophy takes form. There, customers can run their hands across swatches of leather, examine paint samples under different light and experience a 4K visual walk-through of their chosen model; day to night, doors open to closed, every stitch visible. The experience is immersive and utterly personal.

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TO RQU E

– paperwork, compliance, signatures – are often handled remotely, freeing the space for something more celebratory. “It’s about tailoring that handover experience to the customer,” he adds, “and we are able to make it bespoke to why they’ve bought the car.”

owners. The approach is refreshingly inclusive.

“There are no barriers,” Gareth insists.

“Existing customers are more than welcome, but so are all future ones. We want people to come and visit and they’ll always be made to feel welcome.”

It’s a reminder that, for many, a Porsche isn’t just a purchase; it’s a milestone and often a longawaited dream. “Whether it’s a new Porsche owner or someone who’s had multiple cars over many years, you must treat each handover like it’s the very first one,” says Gareth, “and that takes knowing your customer.”

Already, the centre has opened its doors to everyone from business groups to yoga instructors, wanting people to use the centre as their own space. And crucially, they mean it. When a group of local budding teenage photogrpahers recently walked in, cameras in hand, they were greeted not as interlopers, but as welcome guests. “They were excited to photograph the cars,” recalls Gareth. “We treated them with respect and, in turn, they treated the cars with respect. Everybody’s welcome. It’s luxury, but it’s not exclusive.”

Two dedicated Porsche Pros guide each buyer through the technology at the handover, offering a masterclass two weeks later to revisit details once the excitement has settled. It’s another example of a human antidote to the complexity of modern engineering; time given, not taken.

And for those watching on – partners, children, friends – there’s coffee, food and space to share the moment. “People forget that children are our future customers,” he smiles. “I’ve been in the industry long enough to have sold to parents and now to their grown-up children. They remember being here, watching the handovers. That’s the connection we strive for.”

There’s something beautifully circular about this ethos. A brand long associated with precision and performance rediscovering the poetry of presence.

To spend time at the new Porsche Centre Exeter is to witness a recalibration of luxury itself. In the end, it isn’t about the cars… not really. It’s about what they represent: the freedom to move, the pleasure of design, the art of attention.

The cars are still there, of course, gleaming, elegant, unmistakably Porsche. However, they are no longer the whole story. The other narrative is the one that unfolds in the soft light of the lounge, in the conversation over coffee, in the smile of a young visitor allowed to dream. It’s the sound of engines as heartbeats; steady, familiar, human.

Community, it turns out, is the engine behind the new centre. It powers not just sales, but belonging. “We want to make sure that the relationship doesn’t end when our customers leave the door,” says Gareth. From dinners to yacht days, golf sessions to bespoke experiences, the Porsche calendar is rich with invitations to connect, both with the brand and other

porscheexeter.co.uk

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The textures OF LIFE

W O R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G | I M A G E S B Y P H I L LY S T O K E S

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C R E AT E

From fashion buyer to ocean artist, Gemma Lessinger’s journey is one that weaves memory and the sea.

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or as long as Gemma can remember, the ocean has been her haven. She grew up in the city, far from the shore, but every holiday would escape to the coast: “Those weeks by the water became the moments I lived for,” Gemma tells me, “grounding, freeing and impossible to forget. The sea has always been my anchor, a place where I could breathe deeply and reset. What I didn’t know then was how profoundly it would shape my creative journey.

My career began not with paintbrushes and canvas, but in the fast-paced world of fashion, where I spent 20 years curating collections, developing products and predicting trends for global retailers. Ten of those years were in the surf industry, working directly with the very culture and lifestyle that had always been so close to my heart.”

instinct translates into something more tactile: textured seascapes built from fabrics, offcuts and found materials that carry stories of their own.”

Those years taught Gemma more than just business, they shaped her eye for texture, her appreciation for materials and her obsession with detail. They also revealed, in hindsight, a thread that would eventually weave itself into her art: “My fashion career was all about storytelling through fabric; how a cut, a texture, or a print could capture a mood, a lifestyle, a sense of belonging. Now, in the studio, that

“What surprised me most was how naturally my fashion background began to bleed into this process. Working with fabric felt instinctive. I knew how denim would behave under pressure, how cotton might absorb pigment, how synthetic fibres could be manipulated to mimic the shimmer of water. My canvases evolved into multi-dimensional pieces that people can’t resist leaning in to touch.”

When the world slowed down during the pandemic, Gemma reconnected with painting, something that had always been a passion. “Very quickly, I found myself reaching not just for paint, but for materials that surrounded me. I used offcuts of surfboard fibreglass from a local shaper friend, and more recently denim worn soft by years of use, fragments of vintage tablecloths, even recycled swimwear fabric that once belonged to local makers. These pieces, layered into my work, echo the ebb and flow of the sea. The more I experiment, the more I realise that I’m not simply painting seascapes but building them, piece by piece, from the textures of everyday life.”

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A B OV E Multi-dimensional art that speaks of the ocean

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C R E AT E

Sometimes that’s through a large canvas that recreates the horizon of their favourite Cornish beach; sometimes it’s through clothing. Painting onto denim jackets or jeans has become a way for me to merge my two worlds again.”

And it didn’t stop with canvas. The surf industry had been such a defining part of Gemma’s career that when she first experimented with painting directly onto a surfboard, it felt like coming full circle. These boards, often retired from the water, became sculptures of memory and connection, transformed into art that honours their past life while offering a new one. “Repurposing surfboards has since become one of the most meaningful aspects of my practice. They allow me to merge my two worlds: the insider knowledge of surf culture from my buying days with my artistic drive to capture the sea in new forms.”

“Each piece I create is deeply personal. The materials are often sentimental, be that a favourite shirt, a scrap of fabric from a child’s blanket, or sand gathered from a beach where memories were made.

It’s this element of repurposing that makes the work unique.

Nothing is wasted; instead, materials are reborn, carrying the past into something new.

Sustainability isn’t a headline for me, it’s an undercurrent that flows naturally through my practice.”

“There’s something poetic about a surfboard that has ridden waves becoming a canvas for the ocean itself. For the people who commission them, these boards become keepsakes of a life lived close to the water. One couple asked me to create a surfboard piece to celebrate their wedding vows exchanged on the shoreline, incorporating fabric from the bride’s dress into the texture.

Another collector commissioned a board to mark years of surfing holidays with their children, embedding fragments from those trips.”

Exhibiting across Cornwall and beyond, from intimate coastal galleries to international art fairs, has brought Gemma into conversation with people who connect to the sea in countless different ways.

“Today, my work continues to evolve. From largescale commissions and repurposed surfboards, to collaborations with brands and makers who share my values, I’m constantly exploring new ways to connect people with the ocean. The sea has always been my sanctuary; through art, it’s also become my language.”

The idea of memory is what drives Gemma most.

Many of her clients don’t live by the sea, but carry it with them in their hearts. “My role is to capture that feeling and bring it into their homes.

gemmalessinger.com

INSET Gemma Lessinger

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From the FLAMES WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

Unique, contemporary hand-built statement pieces, that each carry a story of their own.

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as it follows the path of the fire across each piece of work, showcasing the smoky trail of the foraged combustibles,” adds Christina. “Each element of the firing process is carefully thought through; the position of the vessel within the barrel, the layering of combustibles around each piece and the amount of smoke produced during the firing.

Even though so much thought and time is given to this, nature still leads the way and the final results are always a rewarding surprise.”

hristina Feltham is a mixed-media ceramic artist with a background in brand design. Having lived by the coast in both Australia and now Cornwall, her work has always been inspired by the connection between land and sea. “My work is sculptural in form, a playful balance of shapes reminiscent of those formed by the erosion of the ocean,” says Christina. “Standing tall, precariously balanced, showing strength beside fragility, the raw colour palette echoing Cornwall’s mineral rich landscape.”

After firing, the vessels are cleaned and then polished with a local beeswax to enhance the natural colour and shine, the signature addition of copper detailing, linking back to Cornwall’s industrial mining heritage. “Every element of my work holds a story. From the name Tucana – inspired by the evening firings, it is derived from a constellation containing one of the brightest globular clusters in the sky – to how each sketch and form is inspired and finished with copper. Through the firing process, the foraged items seem to come full circle, embedding a colour palette and pattern that reflects their own small piece of history within the landscape from whence they came. I feel that each unique piece captures a snapshot of the beauty of Cornwall.”

The connection to the land is further enhanced

by Christina’s unique firing process. Exploring the relationship between both form and finish, each vessel is fired using the traditional method of barrel firing – an ancient firing practice that has been used for centuries. This technique allows elements of nature to be permanently imprinted onto the vessels, each totally unique in colour and pattern depending on how the flames have interacted.

The process begins with a slab-and-coil built piece being carefully loaded into the barrel along with locally foraged combustibles, including driftwood and their inherent iron nails, seaweed and cuttle fish bone. “I have developed my own way of working that reveals a soft blush of colour

tucanaceramics.com

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© Goodrest Studios

© Goodrest Studios

© John Hersey Studio

© Goodrest Studios

© Goodrest Studios

Grand

SERENITY WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

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I C O N

Escape the everyday and experience the magic of an enchanted place on the hill; where timeless opulence blends seamlessly with modern touches for a luxurious and unforgettable stay.

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Stepping through the flagstone halls, it’s impossible not to pause in the Great Hall, taking in the glittering chandeliers and high ceilings, as light streams through the leaded windows.

The great mantel above the fireplace depicts the coat of arms of King James I, bearing the date 1640 and ornamented with figures of peace and plenty.

rom the moment you turn into the driveway and catch your first glimpse of Boringdon Hall’s grand façade, you can sense that something special awaits.

The historic stonework, sweeping lawns and manicured gardens set the tone for a magical stay in the heart of Devon.

Boringdon Hall is a place with many stories to tell and there is an unmistakable sense of history within this 16thcentury manor. Its rich history spans royalty and rebellion dating back to 956 AD. Once owned by Henry VIII’s court, it later passed to the Parker family, who remodelled it into an Elizabethan masterpiece.

In 1587, John Parker celebrated the completion of Boringdon Manor with a grand banquet honouring Sir Francis Drake’s victorious raid on Cádiz, attended by notable guests including Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Richard Grenville.

Boringdon Hall’s four-poster rooms also carry a slice of history and a story of their own.

The Francis Room honours Sir Francis Drake, while the Elizabeth Room recalls Queen Elizabeth I’s stay in 1588. The Catherine Room is named after Lady Catherine Parker, married to John Parker (the first Baron Boringdon), and it was here in this very room that the fireplace caused the first fire that ravaged Boringdon Hall in the 1700s. Today, all of these exquisite rooms immerse guests in history with antique furniture, stone fireplaces and rich tactile furnishings,

INSET The Great Hall

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evoking a sense of grandeur. In 1549 Thomas Wriothesley sold the manor to Henry Grey the Duke of Suffolk and father of the fated Lady Jane Grey, who became Queen of England for only nine days in 1553. In her honour, the Lady Jane Suite delights with pastel tones, a crystal chandelier over a freestanding bath and a cosy window seat overlooking the grounds.

Boringdon Hall feels perfectly removed from the everyday, tucked away in the rolling Devon hills. Its elevated position overlooks sweeping countryside, offering a sense of peace and privacy, while still being only 20 minutes from Plymouth. Outside, guests are welcome to wander the landscaped gardens, pause for a drink on the lawn, or simply soak up the tranquillity. At the adults-only Gaia Spa, the stunning Devon landscape can be enjoyed from the warmth of the hydrotherapy pools or while reclining on the spa terrace. Inside, centuriesold stone walls and latticed windows frame views of picturesque scenes, whether from the bar in the Great Hall, the comfort of your room, or even while soaking in a long, luxurious bath.

However, it’s not just these rooms that stand out. Across its 55 rooms and suites, Boringdon Hall always offers a blend of heritage and bespoke elegance. Courtyard Rooms are sophistication personified with spacious layouts, garden views and dog-friendly touches, for a restorative stay. For a more modern aesthetic, the Wellness Rooms and Suites focus on natural textures, creating a serene cocoon designed for relaxation and wellbeing, with direct access to the Gaia Spa.

Boringdon Hall is home to two exceptional restaurants.

Overlooking the Great Hall is the intimate and elegantly romantic MICHELIN-starred and 4 AA Rosette restaurant Àclèaf. Menus are expertly curated by Head Chef Scott Paton, celebrating the flavours of Devon, where each inventive dish is a testament to his creativity and innovation and guests are invited to embark on a culinary journey. To further elevate the evening, an expertly selected wine flight complements every course.

The Saltram Suite combines historic charm with modern comfort, including a super-king bed and garden-facing bath and, for the ultimate indulgence, the Executive and Royal Suites feature private terraces, heated hot tubs and multi-level layouts. In the Royal Suite, the outdoor hot tub is sheltered in the manor’s original turret, ideal for stargazing with champagne in hand.

It is the considered touches across all of the rooms that ensure each stay at Boringdon Hall feels luxurious and welcoming.

Just off the Great Hall, the 2 AA Rosette Mayflower Brasserie is a warm and welcoming space, blending contemporary style with the

INSET Secret Bar

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A B OV E Luxury abounds in Boringdon Hall's Wellness Suites

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A B OV E Michelin-starred dining at Àclèaf

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unwind in the crystal salt steam room, Finnish sauna, herbal sauna, laconium, experience showers, outdoor hot tubs, treatment rooms and deep relaxation room. This is an exceptional spa experience that nurtures guests' wellbeing in every way, from therapeutic treatments to holistic rituals. All of the treatments use Gaia Skincare products, developed in-house from the finest natural ingredients.

Guests staying at Boringdon Hall have full access to Gaia Spa and the state-ofthe-art gym, with 10% off spa treatments.

historic character of the manor. The menu celebrates local, seasonal produce, with beautifully crafted dishes perfect for everything from a relaxed lunch to a celebratory dinner. At Boringdon Hall, every moment is something to savour. Try a cocktail from master mixologists or take a moment to indulge in a luxury afternoon tea, served in the grand setting of the Great Hall or the ambient space of the Mayflower Brasserie.

Nourishment doesn’t simply appear in its culinary form here. The award-winning Gaia Spa (named for the ancient Greek goddess of the Earth) reflects the holistic philosophy that health and wellness come from nature.

Exclusively for adults, Gaia Spa prides itself on offering a truly immersive experience, where guests can escape the pressures of everyday life and indulge in bespoke wellness journeys designed to restore balance to the mind, body and soul. Gaia Spa is continuously recognised as a destination spa in the South West and is a haven for guests seeking a moment of tranquillity.

If you love to mix relaxation with a little adventure, then Boringdon Hall is also perfectly placed for days of discovery. Nature lovers can lose themselves in the wild beauty of Dartmoor National Park, where heather-covered hills, ancient tors, and rushing rivers never fail to inspire. For gentler days, explore peaceful woodland trails at Plymbridge, the heritage charm of Saltram, or the dramatic coastal paths at Wembury and Noss Mayo.

The historic city of Plymouth is just a short drive away, with plenty to explore, from the historic Mayflower Steps to Plymouth Sound.

For a showstopping evening, guests can catch world-class performances at Theatre Royal Plymouth, one of the UK’s leading regional

In the spa, light radiates through floor-toceiling windows around the indoor pool, whilst a hydrotherapy pool allows guests to swim seamlessly from inside to out, taking in the surrounding countryside vistas. Guests can

INSET Gusbourne afternoon tea

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and sophisticated seasonal events.

theatres. For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s plenty to try: a round of golf at Boringdon Park Golf Club, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, or even seeing the countryside from above on a hot-air balloon or helicopter tour. Whatever your pace, unforgettable experiences are never far.

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Boringdon Hall feels like stepping into a storybook right in the Devon countryside. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, indulge and truly switch off. It’s grand, yes, but it’s also warm and inviting, where guests are treated like old friends, as the team take pride in the little details that make a stay feel personal and thoughtful. Boringdon Hall is a five-star hotel with both heart and history. Add that to its deep connection with Devon, and you have an authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Boringdon Hall is also brimming with character and hides many surprises – you must seek out the Secret Bar. A bookshelf hides a concealed door and, if you pull the right book, you’ll find your way into a cosy, intimate space tucked away from the outside world. It’s this kind of character that makes Boringdon a special place for celebrations, from magical weddings

boringdonhall.co.uk

A B OV E Arriving in style

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A B OV E Boringdon Hall's award-winning Gaia Spa

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Framed for

PURPOSE WORDS BY JAMIE CROCKER

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SU STA I N

Carpenter Oak designs and constructs enduring, bespoke buildings with structural timber.

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Carpenter Oak, having previously collaborated with the clients on their London residence, was invited to lend structural design expertise to this ambitious project. The brief called for a home that would be practical and generous.

rom garden retreats to manor extensions, Carpenter Oak has built a reputation for turning timber into structures that feel considered and commanding. Their work begins in the forests of Europe, where all timber is PEFC-certified and the capture of carbon during growth becomes a permanent feature of the building itself. Sustainability is embedded into every beam, every joint, every detail.

Central to the project was the creation of a nine-meter-high, single-volume main barn. To make such a space habitable, the team designed and crafted a structural green oak frame that is exposed and proportioned to suit the scale of the architecture. The result is a structure that feels substantial but not overpowering.

The company’s portfolio is varied, ranging from intimate garden rooms to substantial commercial projects. The Pool House Pavilion, perched above the River Exe, demonstrates how traditional craft can fit snuggly into contemporary design. Its venerable oak frame anchors the building within its surroundings. Large glazed panels capture the shifting light, while natural finishes give the space warmth and tactility. It is a setting for relaxation where the timber both supports and defines the experience of being there.

The installation itself demanded precision and careful coordination. Carpenter Oak’s team managed the erection of the frame, including complex junctions and roof geometry. With two new wings added to the salvaged stone shell, the frame had to integrate seamlessly into the revised layout.

In the Cotswolds what began as a poorly converted barn has been reimagined by architects McLean Quinlan into a home that honours both landscape and legacy. The owners, seeking something more timeless and considered than what existed, chose a radical approach, one that would echo the region’s agricultural heritage while bringing architectural clarity to their family retreat.

The oak frame serves as both a structural and aesthetic anchor, paired thoughtfully with Cotswold stone, lime plaster and a restrained palette of natural materials. The timber brings warmth and rhythm to the interiors, while oak beams, doors and ceilings extend the language of the structure throughout, creating a calm and unbroken space.

PREVIOUS The Pool House Pavilion, living space

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In Buckinghamshire, outdoor living is elevated through timber framing, as seen in a bespoke outdoor bar and kitchen for clients looking for a timber-framed structure as part of the remodelling of their back garden. The oak structure delineates space while integrating cooking and bar facilities.

Covered areas encourage gathering and movement and the proportions of the frame contribute as much to the sense of place as its finish. The pavilion feels cohesive and comfortable, demonstrating the potential for timber to shape both function and atmosphere.

The project demonstrates how contemporary architectural interventions can successfully enhance historic properties when executed with skill and sensitivity.

Architects, Charlie Luxton Design, enlisted Carpenter Oak as collaborators on the new addition to a listed 17th-century manor house in Worcestershire, with the company providing expertise on timber selection, connections and finishes. The wing comprises two distinct spaces flanking a central fireplace, with the kitchen and dining area positioned on one side and a lounge area on the other.

The design respects the architectural vernacular of the South Hams. The oak frame echoes the existing building through its use of common rafters and sarking boards. Details were carefully considered to ensure the extension relates to the original structure while providing a more open interior.

At Broad Down Cottage in Devon, Carpenter Oak has created an oak-framed extension that merges traditional building methods with contemporary living requirements. The vaulted two-bay structure expands the home’s primary entertainment area, functioning as both kitchen and social space.

The timber-framed addition shows how natural materials can deliver both craft quality and longevity. The space is practical and refined, built to endure beyond immediate needs.

Structurally, the extension features a series of columns and ceiling beams, employing both traditional pegged carpentry joints and contemporary aluminium dovetail locking timber connections. The final cross frame incorporates a steel flitch plate to ensure absolute rigidity for the curtain screen glazing. Carpenter Oak also worked in close consultation with Varndell Engineers on the engineering elements throughout the project.

On the River Tay in Scotland, The Boathouse demonstrates sustainable construction methods at a moment when the industry faces pressure to reduce environmental impact. The project drew on local trades, knowledge and materials to address practical challenges while exploring new approaches to timber building.

This stunning addition represents an exquisitely finished piece of architecture where every detail has been carefully considered. Internally, the oak glulam delivers sleek, contemporary lines, while generous skylights flood the spaces with natural light. Externally, the wing presents a modern contrast to the well-proportioned original house, finished with local stone and crowned by a cantilevered copper zinc raised seam flat roof.

The site’s seasonal flooding required careful consideration. A nearby forest of larch and fir, scheduled for thinning, provided a solution.

Twenty trees were selected for their structural properties. Belgian draft horses extracted the timber to avoid damaging the woodland, and a temporary sawmill was established near the construction site.

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TOP The Pool House Pavilion

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MIDDLE Cotswold Country Home

A B OV E Outdoor bar and kitchen

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TOP Manor House glulam extension

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MIDDLE Broad Down Farm

A B OV E The Wheel House

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SU STA I N

The scissor truss profile gives these spaces a contemporary character. The trusses rest on masonry walls or minimal timber and glazed sections, with external oak posts providing visual continuity.

Architects Barboza Blanco designed the interior in response to the timber frame. The sculptural structure shapes how the space functions rather than simply supporting it. The frame creates zones for different activities while maintaining a visual connection to the landscape.

A series of oak posts mounted on granite saddle stones complements the stone cladding and zinc roof. Two further trusses extend eastward from these posts to form a covered outdoor area for dining and gathering.

The structure uses solid-section green timber throughout, joined using traditional techniques without metal fixings. Mortise and tenon, birdsmouth and half-lap joints were cut by hand, accommodating the natural shrinkage of fresh timber. The scale and complexity of these connections made the expertise of Carpenter Oak’s team and local craftspeople essential to realising the design.

Local contractor Martin Joyce executed details including a glass entrance set beneath the zinc roofline, a sheltered courtyard garden, and cedar cladding on selected external walls.

The project suggests that environmental responsibility and technical ambition need not be opposing forces. By working with local resources and established joinery methods, it shows timber construction as both materially efficient and architecturally expressive.

Carpenter Oak approaches every commission with a fresh eye, meeting planning requirements while shaping each frame around the client’s ambitions. Every structure is hand-crafted, ensuring its individuality. As the timber matures, it gains depth and richness, lending each building authority.

The Boathouse received the Structural Timber Award for Private Housing Project of the Year 2025.

Across each project, the character of the timber influences how spaces are experienced, strengthening the relationship between inside and out and giving the building a distinct identity.

For clients, this layered quality is where the real value lies. The frames seem to respond intuitively to the project’s scale and the craftsmanship is evident in every detail. The use of timber helps a structure feel grounded without seeming heavy and its inherent warmth shapes both the exterior presence and the atmosphere within.

Finally, The Wheel House, a new build in South Devon, employs a hybrid structural approach with oak framing concentrated in key living areas.

The frame defines the living room, kitchen and a covered outdoor space, while the remainder of the building uses conventional construction.

Seven trusses span the living room and three the kitchen, arranged in a T-shaped plan, with an additional truss over the master bedroom.

carpenteroak.com

INSET Renton Hall extension

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To the POINT WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

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R E T R E AT

A comprehensive coastal retreat is redefining North Cornwall holidays.

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clean, unobtrusive finishes. Padel and tennis courts sit nearby, while the 18-hole championship golf course spreads out across a landscape framed by sea views. These amenities form a coherent whole, allowing guests to move between exercise, leisure and dining in a way that feels natural and efficient.

he Point at Polzeath has built a reputation for luxury stays, defined by a layered mix of wellness, sport, dining and contemporary accommodation.

Its position between Polzeath, Rock and Daymer Bay places it at the centre of a stretch of coastline known for surfing, footpaths, estuary views and clear light. What distinguishes the resort is the level of integration across its facilities and selfcatering properties, creating a setting in which guests can shape their stay without the need to move far beyond the surrounding landscape.

However, the resort extends far beyond its central facilities through The Point Holidays collection, an edited portfolio of houses and apartments both at The Point and in the environs of Polzeath, Rock and Daymer Bay. Properties are selected for architectural quality and ease of use. Each sits within easy reach of beaches, cafés and walking routes, while retaining quick access to the resort’s gym, pool and golf course. The design ethos is consistent across the collection: contemporary interiors that balance comfort with restraint, open-plan living areas and outdoor spaces that connect directly with the surrounding environment.

The clubhouse is the core of daily life at The Point. The restaurant and bar overlook the greens and the coastline, offering a relaxed environment that supports breakfast, long lunches or informal dinners with equal ease. The Health Club brings together an indoor pool, gym, steam room and sauna, each designed with practical layouts and a focus on

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Sole is a good example of how The Point curates its accommodation. One of seven eco-apartments located at The Point, it sits on the golf course with views across the green and toward the coast. The interior is anchored by floor-toceiling glazing and a well-planned kitchen that makes self-catering simple. A log burner adds warmth in cooler months and the private terrace extends the living space outdoors. Practical considerations are addressed through heated storage for surfboards and golf clubs.

just above Polzeath Beach and Pentire Head, is a standout property in The Point Holidays collection: a luxurious, five-bedroom retreat that accommodates up to ten guests. The design centres on expansive living, with a decked terrace and lawned garden providing spaces to dine, lounge or simply take in the sea air.

Rock introduces a slightly different atmosphere and properties such as Seven Sandy Hills and Trerokken reflect this shift.

Seven Sandy Hills uses a lodge-style architectural approach with a vaulted ceiling over the living area and a south-facing balcony.

Storage solutions for boards and bikes indicate a clear understanding of the needs of active guests. Trerokken adds a separate pool house, a garden with heated pool and a layout designed for groups who want generous living space without compromising privacy.

Medway, also in Rock, places guests close to the beach and shops as well as benefiting from a regular water taxi over to Padstow. There are also several sought-after restaurants here, including Paul Ainsworth's The Mariners and the ever-popular Four Boys. Its west-facing garden, barbecue area and flexible bedroom configuration make it well-suited to families or two couples travelling together.

Across the wider portfolio, Gunyah takes a more elevated position above Polzeath Beach, with panoramic views across Pentire Point and the Atlantic. It accommodates six guests and brings together a contemporary kitchen, generous living area and large deck. A sunken hot tub adds an additional layer of comfort. The atmosphere is calm and understated, suited to guests who want both privacy and access to the resort’s extensive facilities.

Hob House sits in the picturesque Daymer Bay, offering a grand holiday retreat with breathtaking sea views and just a short walk from the sandy beach. Ideal for large families or groups, this beautifully appointed property accommodates up to 14 guests across six stylish bedrooms and an annexe, and is dog-friendly.

The home features expansive living spaces, including an open-plan kitchen and dining area and a bright conservatory. Sandrock, perched

All properties in the portfolio share access to resort facilities through a straightforward booking system supported by the in-house team. Staff members are embedded in the local

INSET Daymer Bay

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A B OV E Gunyah, Polzeath – a stylish coastal retreat for six

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MIDDLE Unmatched luxury for ten at Sandrock, Polzeath

TOP Hob House, sleeping 14, is a wonderful escape for extended families

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TOP A luxurious stay for ten with outdoor pool at Trerokken, Rock

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A B OV E Rumps 16 – Koto at The Point

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five-acre grasslands. This cluster of just 17 eco-cabins (two of which are available to rent), is designed by Koto in collaboration with landscape architect Darren Hawkes, offering three-bed, two-bath structures that marry minimalist Scandinavian and Japanese-inspired architecture with raw, sustainable materials.

Think charred timber, FSC-certified wood and floor-to-ceiling glazing that dissolves the boundary between indoors and a private, decked courtyard. Sustainability is not an afterthought as high-performance insulation, a FlexTherm eco-water heating system and passive energy efficiencies combine with green roofs and carefully planted biodiverse grounds. Owners benefit from a “lock-up-and-go” model. Turnkey cabins arrive ready-furnished with curated interior packages. All are low maintenance, attract no council tax and grant access to The Point’s full suite of resort facilities, allowing visitors to experience minimalist luxury in beautiful surroundings.

community and provide recommendations that reflect real experience rather than scripted suggestions. This adds nuance to a stay at The Point, guiding guests toward particular surf breaks, walking routes, restaurants or viewpoints that might otherwise be overlooked.

The combination of self-catering and resort amenities is particularly effective for guests who want to maintain an active outdoor lifestyle while having structured facilities available each day.

A typical stay might involve breakfast at the clubhouse after a morning game of padel, followed by a walk from Polzeath toward Pentire Point or a surf session depending on conditions.

Guests can return to their accommodation for a slow afternoon or move directly to the indoor pool or sauna. Dinner can be taken at the restaurant or prepared in the property’s kitchen using local produce. This level of autonomy and access is central to the appeal of the resort.

The design tone across The Point is consistent: relaxed luxury expressed through thoughtful detailing rather than decorative excess.

Materials, layouts and furnishings in both the resort facilities and the self-catering properties favour comfort and simplicity, letting the views do the talking. This focus aligns with the resort’s outdoor-oriented lifestyle where practicality must sit comfortably alongside aesthetics. The result is an environment that feels refined without being formal and warm without being rustic.

The location strengthens every element of The Point's offering. Polzeath provides surf and a lively beach community. Daymer Bay offers sheltered swimming, long tidal shallows and a more subdued coastal atmosphere. Rock provides watersports, cafés, restaurants and direct access to the Camel Estuary. The Point sits in a position where each of these can be reached with ease, while the resort itself functions as a central anchor.

The appeal of The Point lies in its coherence.

Guests can settle into well-designed holiday homes while remaining closely connected to the resort’s amenities and the surrounding coastline. They can create an itinerary around sport, wellness, exploration or rest without compromising on comfort or access. This integrated model has become the resort’s signature and is the foundation of its growing reputation as North Cornwall’s go-to when it comes to self-catering stays.

Inclusivity is part of the resort’s identity. Many homes are suited to multi-generational groups and most welcome dogs. The clubhouse bar is dog-friendly and the golf course accepts dogs during rounds. This approach broadens the range of guests who feel at home here and gives the resort a community-like character, especially during peak seasons.

What's more, you can even own a cabin of your own here. Koto at The Point carves out a dramatic footprint on The Point’s rolling

thepointatpolzeath.co.uk thepointholidays.co.uk

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Heritage by THE SEA WORDS BY JAMIE CROCKER

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Authentic South West hospitality in some of the region’s most charming pubs with rooms.

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with rooms offer a charming mix of coastal and countryside escapes across the region, each combining characterful hospitality with stylish and comfortable accommodation. Whether it’s a beachside retreat or a rural hideaway, our pubs help showcase the best of the South West’s charm in some of the most stunning locations, complete with memorable hospitality, locally sourced food and award-winning beers.

steadfast business in the South West, independent and family-run St Austell Brewery has stood the test of time since 1851. From humble beginnings as a supplier of wines and spirits, St Austell Brewery has grown into an awardwinning business spanning pubs, brewing and drinks wholesale, continually championing hospitality. After its recent rebrand, the time was right to explore how the historic business has evolved, unifying its unique offering.

We caught up with Gareth James, Operations Director, to find out more.

What makes your approach to hospitality unique compared to other UK pub and hotel groups?

As a family-run, independent business, we’re driven by genuine warmth, local pride and a heartfelt connection to the South West. Each of our pubs reflects its surroundings – not just in style, but in spirit – championing local suppliers and offering relaxed, memorable experiences. We empower our teams to create moments that truly belong to their locations, from yoga on the deck of the Old Success in Sennen to RIB-boat tours from The Atlantic exploring the Isles of Scilly.

Can you give us an overview of St Austell Brewery’s pubs-with-rooms collection?

St Austell Brewery owns more than 160 pubs across the South West, from the Isles of Scilly to Somerset, many of which are award-winning.

Earlier this year, St Austell Brewery was named Brewing Pub Company of the Year at the coveted Publican Awards. Forty-five of those pubs form St Austell Brewery’s managed estate. Our pubs

PREVIOUS Harbour views elevate every dining moment

INSET Cocktails crafted for discerning palates

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A B OV E The Pedn Olva – a place to unwind

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Community sits at the heart of everything we do. Our pubs host events that raise funds for the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust, supporting local causes and individuals across the region.

We also celebrate local provenance through collaborations with nearby producers, from Tarquin’s gin tastings to RNLI supper clubs.

Are there particular experiences or packages planned that combine accommodation, dining, and local culture?

Our pubs are designed to offer memorable experiences every day. At the newly refurbished Pedn Olva, spaces have been reimagined to encourage relaxation, with inviting corners like The Lookout – a glass-walled retreat filled with soft furnishings, sheepskin throws and coastal charm, ideal for unwinding with one of our award-winning beers after exploring the town.

What role does Pedn Olva in St Ives play within the wider portfolio?

The Pedn Olva, part of our managed estate for the past 25 years, is one of our latest refurbishment projects – a major investment focused on enhancing and preserving our venues.

It’s one of St Ives’ most iconic coastal venues, with its renovation now honouring its amazing location with standout design and unrivalled views. As a pub rooted in a town synonymous with art, the interiors showcase more than 25 pieces of original, commissioned and bespoke artwork including sculpture and stained glass, many by Cornish artists and sourced from local galleries.

The expansive terrace overlooks the golden sands of Porthminster Beach, setting the scene for al-fresco dining from breakfast through to sunset.

Roof terraces provide the perfect backdrop for celebrations or sundowner selfies, while rooms at our coastal and riverside pubs come with thick robes ready for a refreshing dip in the sea.

Could you share the story and character of the Royal Castle?

Sitting on Dartmouth’s harbour front since the 17th century, the Royal Castle is one of the town’s most distinguished landmarks – and the latest in our managed estate to receive a thoughtful refurbishment. The Grade II* listed building’s renovation, which began earlier this year, has uncovered and preserved a wealth of historic features, including 17th-century window frames and cobbled stone floors. Every era has left its mark, and the new design celebrates them all.

How does its location appeal to those planning a 2026 retreat to Cornwall?

Perched on the rocks above Porthminster Beach, the Pedn Olva has one of the best views in Cornwall. The iconic structure has been completely transformed to showcase its unique setting and heritage. The majority of rooms look out onto the golden sands of the beaches of St Ives, and it’s within walking distance to the attractions people come to St Ives for – the Tate Gallery and Barbara Hepworth Museum, Carbis Bay and the South West Coast Path. It’s well connected with the train, just a short distance from the pub, has ample parking nearby, as well as being less than an hour’s drive from Cornwall Airport Newquay.

Working closely with Historic England and the Local Planning Authority, our property team, alongside specialist designers and engineers, have approached every detail with care and respect for the building’s heritage.

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including Gem, Hicks and Cornish Best. As the South West’s largest drinks wholesaler, we also offer an exceptional wine portfolio, curated by our in-house experts to ensure the perfect pairing every time.

The Royal Castle joined our award-winning 45-strong managed estate in 2019, adding a new chapter to its story. A date stone above the entrance marks its origins in 1639, when it began as two elegant townhouses built for merchants trading Atlantic cod. By the late 1600s, one had become an apothecary serving locals and sailors, later evolving into the New Inn — a lively tavern and brewhouse. Expanding through the centuries, it became The Castle Hotel in 1841 and gained its ‘Royal’ title following King Edward VII’s stay while Prince of Wales.

We champion the region’s best growers, farmers and fishermen, forging lasting partnerships built on quality and sustainability. Our chefs craft beautiful, seasonal dishes using South West produce that’s grown, reared and landed – from Tenderstem broccoli at Castle Dean in St Columb to hand-picked rhubarb from Fox Farm in Penzance.

Today, the Royal Castle’s restoration blends period character with modern comfort. Original Victorian windows, timber panelling and listed floorboards have been carefully retained, while all 24 bedrooms feature a coastal-inspired redesign. A new bar and dining offer distinctive settings for every occasion.

Think grass-fed beef from Cornish farms supplied

by Brian Etherington, or luxuriously rich clotted cream from Trewithen Dairy – local ingredients that mean fewer miles and fuller flavour. From field to fork, every dish is a celebration of provenance and freshness.

What makes it a standout choice for travellers looking at 2026 breaks?

As the South West’s largest independent brewer, we’re constantly innovating. Through our Cask Club, we release limited-edition and seasonal brews throughout the year, available across our pubs and beyond – bringing the spirit of the West Country to every pint.

Having been voted as the Best Brewing Pub Company at this year’s Publican Awards (the equivalent of The Oscars for hospitality), we strive to create memorable experiences and bring that elevated touch to people’s visit to the pub, whether that’s joining us for a special occasion, an anniversary meal, stopping over after a trek along the South West Coast Path or escaping everyday life for a weekend getaway. The Royal Castle sits in the most prominent position in the town of Dartmouth and while the waterside offers a restful escape, the town itself buzzes with life and plenty of local events.

Are there any unique dining experiences across the portfolio?

A standout in our managed estate, Pilchards at Port Gaverne is celebrated for its exceptional seafood and relaxed coastal dining. With dishes that showcase the freshest catches and bold, Cornish-inspired flavours, it perfectly captures the spirit of the sea.

How do the different pubs showcase local, seasonal food and St Austell Brewery’s beers?

Across the portfolio, several pubs pair great pizza with equally impressive views. Highlights include the Hare & Hounds near Bath, a laidback countryside pub with a spacious garden, and

Our managed pubs proudly pour our awardwinning beers – from favourites like Tribute, Proper Job and Korev to timeless classics

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TOP A wide selection of spirits, wines and cask ales

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A B OV E Heritage architecture meets modern luxury

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the business has excelled in the adoption of the scheme to reduce general waste by 80% by 2026 in its managed estate. The ultimate goal is to reach zero waste by 2040.

This means that no waste from the business will end up in landfill or incineration without energy recovery.

the Harbour Inn in Porthleven, where guests can enjoy sourdough pizza overlooking the harbour.

How do you cater for London-based travellers seeking a restorative escape?

St Austell Brewery pubs provide London-based travellers with a refreshing escape from city life, combining comfort, character and convenience.

Many are easily reached via major train routes, with stations at Falmouth, St Ives and Penzance offering direct or well-connected services.

For those driving, several pubs offer on-site parking, granting easy access to both coastal and countryside retreats. Each pub is designed to help guests relax and recharge. From the invigorating sea air of a coastal inn to the tranquil calm of a countryside retreat, warm interiors, locally inspired menus, and attentive service create a restorative stay. Seasonal packages cater to short breaks, including cosy autumn and winter escapes with discounted rooms and fireside dining, midweek offers for quieter, better-value stays and flexible booking options for spontaneous trips – all designed to make every stay effortless and memorable.

How do you address and responsibility?

We champion local produce too, which means shorter supply chains and lower food miles.

St Austell Brewery’s sustainability efforts go far beyond waste management, with a holistic strategy embedded across the business. De-carbonisation work is underway in partnership with Zevero, and the business has also joined Sedex, an online platform that enables suppliers to maintain and share data on ethical and responsible practices with their customers. Alongside this, engagement and upskilling plans are being developed, giving teams across the organisation ownership of delivering the wider sustainability plan.

What does the roadmap look like for St Austell Brewery’s pubs and rooms in 2026 and beyond?

Our vision is all about deepening the guest experience, creating spaces that feel not just welcoming, but memorable. We’re continuing to build on the rich experiences we already deliver in our pubs, working closely with local suppliers and producers to craft a compelling offer that keeps guests coming back, not only for a pint but for the bigger moments that matter, too.

sustainability

Alongside our rebrand in June, we unveiled our sustainability plan. As a family business of 174 years, crafting a brighter future and leaving a lasting legacy for the generations to come is our action plan. The new strategy is organised around three pillars: Protecting Places, Celebrating Partnerships and Championing People.

Our pubs are evolving into destinations in their own right; places where you can enjoy a pint overlooking a stunning coastal view, tuck into beautifully prepared dishes championing local ingredients, or stay a little longer to soak up the spirit of the South West.

Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend escape or a carefully planned walking holiday, we’re focused on offering stays that feel restorative and authentic.

The business also scooped the Excellence in Waste Management award at this year’s Green Awards UK. The award recognised the incredible impact of Operation Segregation – our campaign that’s changing the way our pub teams segregate and think about waste in our 45 managed pubs across the South West.

From team training to colour-coded bins to food redistribution and smart data dashboards,

staustellbrewery.co.uk

PREVIOUS Harbourside refuge

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Beyond just

CABINETRY WORDS BY JAMIE CROCKER

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Transforming reclaimed materials into customisable luxury surfaces for contemporary interiors – Stratum Marquetry creates its own path.

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Their recent commission for the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter demonstrates how this modern iteration of an ancient craft can integrate into contemporary spaces. The museum required welcome units and a mobile fundraising pod, and shortlisted three businesses through the Craft Council. When asked why they should be chosen over competitors with more extensive institutional portfolios, Dan’s response was straightforward: they had something unique to offer. The museum’s technical team was particularly interested in sustainability, so Stratum Marquetry proposed incorporating some materials from the museum’s own stores – oak and mahogany from decommissioned exhibition units, clear acrylic came from temporary Covid-era installations – into the marquetry patterns themselves.

an and Ravi have spent the past few years perfecting something most people associate with Victorian sewing boxes and National Trust properties.

Marquetry, that delicate art of inlaid wood veneer, has been reimagined by this Cornwallbased duo into a robust, contemporary surface treatment that bears little resemblance to its historical predecessor. Where traditional marquetry involves painstakingly glueing hundreds of individual pieces of fragile veneer to form decorative patterns or designs, Stratum Marquetry has developed a process that produces something far more durable and infinitely more versatile.

The difference lies in their approach.

Rather than working with thin veneers vulnerable to scratching and wear, they create deep composite surfaces where materials are bonded throughout the structure. The result is a surface that can withstand daily use in flooring, worktops, and high-traffic commercial environments whilst maintaining its visual impact.

This approach to material sourcing defines their practice. Every piece of marquetry is made from reclaimed or recycled materials. In one of the corners of their workshop, triangular offcuts

PREVIOUS Art work surface detail.

Various timbers, plastics, resin board, flooring lino and CDs

INSET Bespoke kitchen with marquetry door and draw pulls, and dining table with a full overlay marquetry pattern

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unprotected. When she revisited the point during an on-site visit, he emphasised that, unlike veneer marquetry, where delicacy is inherent, their work is embedded deeply within the structure.

The museum’s benches and reception areas would endure no more stress than a domestic kitchen worktop and considerably less than a commercial floor.

of birch plywood, from a local workshop that supplies local stores, scraps with no commercial value to the original manufacturer, lay ready for repurposing. “That pile up there represents a behaviour change around material value,” says Ravi, gesturing to stacks of triangular offcuts awaiting transformation. It’s a pointed observation about an industry where waste has long been accepted as inevitable.

Pattern possibilities are genuinely limitless.

Working with a brand’s colour palette or incorporating specific materials from a client’s own waste stream allows for personalisation that extends far beyond choosing between oak and walnut. One potential project involves a conference table for a sunglasses manufacturer, incorporating all the plastic offcuts generated during frame production.

It’s precisely the kind of commission that appeals to them, a functional piece of furniture that tells a material story whilst serving a practical purpose.

Whilst they acknowledge that mixing different materials creates a product that cannot be conventionally recycled, they operate a take-back scheme. Any surface that becomes damaged or unwanted can be returned, reprocessed into smaller fragments, and cast into new composite panels. “Put it in the post and you can be rest assured it’s saved. It might be saved for a long time before it turns into something else, but it’s not in the bin.”

The technical process remains closely guarded, but its advantages are evident. Where traditional marquetry requires clamping procedures, their method produces a surface in which each element is bonded throughout its depth before assembly. Different materials within the same surface, some harder than oak, some softer, create a composite that distributes strength rather than concentrating it in certain areas.

Their website now frames the business not as furniture makers who do marquetry, but as specialists in modern marquetry who are also master furniture builders.

The distinction matters. Someone searching for a bespoke kitchen will find hundreds of capable makers. Someone searching for a way to incorporate reclaimed materials into a customised surface treatment will find considerably fewer options, if any. “This is where we come in,” says Ravi. “We’re not closing the loop in the traditional sense, but we are creating a loop that keeps material in use.”

Helen, the project manager at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, raised questions about durability during their initial Zoom interview. Dan reassured her by explaining that the same surface specification is used in their flooring. The finish applied to any piece is suitable for its environment – a hard barrier for high-use areas, with carefully considered edge treatments; nothing is left

The shift towards commercial and institutional clients represents a deliberate strategy. Private residential work continues, but projects like

INSET Artwork made using discarded worktop and flooring lino

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TO P L E F T Bespoke lamp with marquetry detail within interior and exterior faces

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A B OV E Bespoke table with a hexagonal cascade pattern

TOP RIGHT Flooring with various patterns

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A B OV E L E F T Bespoke bench – sapele top with a hexagonal cascade pattern

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TOP Fully customisable herringbone flooring with signature marquetry patterns

A B OV E R I G H T Bespoke kitchen with marquetry dispersed throughout

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that transforms it from a specification choice into something with genuine narrative value. The narrative matters increasingly to both private clients and commercial organisations. Being able to say that a conference table incorporates waste from the company’s own production line, or that a museum’s visitor facilities use materials from its own stores, adds meaning that extends beyond the object’s immediate function.

the Royal Albert Memorial Museum offer visibility that domestic kitchens cannot match.

Two hundred thousand visitors annually will encounter those welcome units, each one featuring marquetry made from the museum’s own decommissioned materials. The form will be functional rather than ostentatious. Dan envisions a corner accent, as though someone has spilt paint down one side, with a small plaque explaining the material provenance and process.

It provides personality without overwhelming the furniture’s primary purpose.

Years of development have given Dan and Ravi confidence in their process. They have never seen a piece blow itself apart through expansion and contraction, never had material delaminate under normal use. The technical challenges have been resolved through iteration and observation rather than theoretical calculation. “It’s very much a doing process,” says Ravi. They keep a logbook documenting research and development, partly for practical reference, partly to track their progression from experimental beginnings to established technique.

For those seeking something considered, something that makes a statement about craft and environmental responsibility, Stratum Marquetry offers an approach that the more commercial furniture makers cannot replicate.

The market for this level of customisation exists among people who recognise that the objects in their homes and workplaces can embody values as well as function.

What emerges from conversation with them is not evangelism about sustainability or craft, but practical consideration of how materials move through economic systems and where intervention creates value. They have identified a gap between waste generation and waste disposal, and positioned themselves to capture materials at that point. Their marquetry combines beauty and purpose, achieving the perfect balance, especially when its environmental credentials are considered.

The Royal Albert Memorial Museum project will be particularly valuable as a case study in institutional collaboration, showing how a cultural organisation can integrate sustainability into its physical infrastructure whilst supporting regional craft businesses. It’s the kind of work that generates further opportunities through visibility alone.

The surfaces they produce occupy an unusual position in the contemporary design landscape. Too robust to be dismissed as decorative, too distinctive to be merely functional, they represent a synthesis of environmental responsibility and visual impact that conventional furniture making struggles to achieve. Someone purchasing engineered oak flooring through Stratum Marquetry receives the same technical product they would from any supplier, installed in the same manner, finished to the same standard. But that floor contains an element of personalisation and material rescue

The process scales from accent details on furniture to entire floors without compromising either durability or customisation. That versatility, combined with their commitment to material rescue and their mastery of a technique, positions them as specialists in a category they are actively defining. stratummarquetry.co.uk

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An Atlantic

INTERLUDE WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

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Finding sun, solace and serenity at St Moritz Hotel.

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the world to rights, a balcony for sundowners and morning coffee, a sea view, a spa, worldclass treatments, walking distance to the beach and a fridge big enough to chill our veritable vat of prosecco.

he ‘Ladies that – indecision – spa’ WhatsApp group pings on my phone.

It’s that time of year when we plan our annual weekend of pure indulgence. No husbands, no children, no work, no responsibility… other than for ourselves and a short shopping list that majors on prosecco. While we might be a group of ladies of a certain age who sometimes struggle to remember our own names, we are a discerning bunch and as it’s the group’s ten-year anniversary we want to treat ourselves. But here’s the rub… as our group name suggests, finding something that we can all agree on takes deliberation and planning on a global scale. The wish list is long and detailed… rooms must be big enough to accommodate snoring quinquagenarians, there should be an openplan kitchen-living area for hours spent putting

“I know the very place,” I post.

St Moritz Hotel has been on my bucket list for a while and is a destination for foodies, oceanloves and design-minded travellers alike. Not only does it tick all our boxes in terms of needs and wants, its location at Trebetherick means we have the wider ocean playground that is North Cornwall literally on our doorstep. The St Moritz is somewhat unique in its hotel make-up, in that its garden and sea-view suites offer luxury self-catering facilities with full size kitchens and living-dining areas that can be booked alongside smaller rooms across the corridor

PREVIOUS Walking the clifftop overlooking Polzeath

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The next morning dawns with one of those soft Cornish hazes that promises sunshine if you just give it a little time. We congregate in the kitchen, bleary-eyed but cheerful, each clutching a mug of coffee as though it’s a lifeline. Someone has popped to nearby Flo’s Deli Café to buy pastries, and the scent of warm almond croissants mingles with the salty morning air that drifts through the open balcony doors. There’s gentle chatter, sporadic bursts of laughter and the familiar chaos of five women trying to get themselves organised for a simple walk.

to make up a family ‘pod’ if required. King, twin and cosy rooms offer a more traditional hotel option and all come with heavenly Cowshed spa toiletries and fluffy bathrobes.

St Moritz also offers a wide range of self-catering options – many of which are dogfriendly – from on-site coastal houses to cool apartments on the upper floors of the main hotel building.

We choose a three-bedroom hotel apartment and count down the days to our arrival. We hail from various corners of the West Country so plan to meet for arrival drinks by the outdoor pool which has panoramic views out across the bay.

The weather gods must know it’s a special weekend as the day dawns with expansive blue skies and a gentle breeze. It’s October, but warm enough for shorts and shirt sleeves and as each of our party arrives, amidst long hugs and tears of happiness, we clink chilled glasses and settle in for our celebration.

Eventually, bags packed, water bottles filled, layers debated, we set off along the coast path towards Polzeath. The path curls gently around the clifftop, revealing new vignettes of sea and shoreline at every turn. It’s the kind of walk that demands frequent pauses, partly because the views are so extraordinary and partly because we keep stopping to take photos, remove layers, reapply layers and generally faff about in a way that only a longstanding group of friends can do without annoying each other.

The hotel has the feel of an ocean liner, art deco in design and blending seamlessly with its clifftop location. Our apartment is a delight, with fullheight windows looking out towards the ocean and views that draw the landscape into the space.

The proportions are generous and the atmosphere feels calm and restorative – just what we were looking for. We spend a happy first evening watching the sunset from the balcony until the last rays disappear beneath the horizon and the autumn chill of a clear Cornish night sends us inside. There’s nothing quite like a dose of sea air to lull you to sleep and so there are early nights all round as we snuggle into super-comfy beds cocooned by Egyptian cotton sheets and drift off to the sound of the waves… and the odd snore!

As Polzeath unfurls below us, the beach spread out like brushed gold, the call of the surf becomes irresistible. There are murmured excuses…

“I didn’t bring my swimsuit,” “it’s October,” “we’ll freeze,” but the sea has its own persuasion. Within minutes, we are stripping down to whatever passes as acceptable swimming attire, squealing as we run across the firm sand and into the water.

The first shock is brutal, but then comes the exhilaration: the salt, the surf, the whoops echoing across the bay. We bob, dive under, float on our backs watching gulls drift overhead, laughing so much our faces ache. There is something curiously youthful about being tumbled in the waves with

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A B OV E A stay St Moritz makes adventuring easy

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A B OV E Every element of the accommodation is exceptional

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pastel waterfront drawing nearer and the fishing boats bobbing like toys, is worth every shiver.

As we dock, the energy of the harbour wraps around us: the smell of fresh seafood, the sound of ropes clinking against masts, the shuffle of feet up the walkway.

your oldest friends, it knocks loose the stresses that lodge in the shoulders and reminds you of who you were long before life layered itself on top.

Drenched, sandy, hair plastered to our heads, we emerge from the water feeling reborn.

Towels are shared, jumpers borrowed and then we begin the slow amble back up the beach in search of something warm and caffeinated. Polzeath is alive even in October; surfers with boards under arms, dogs shaking sand everywhere, families wrangling small children enticed by tidal pools.

It hums with the low-key energy of a coastal community that thrives year-round. From here we catch the St Moritz electric minibus, a delightfully smooth and quiet ride that glides us back towards Rock. The novelty of being transported by something that feels both futuristic and charmingly local has us grinning like children. We hop out near the waterfront where the estuary gleams silver beneath the soft midday sun.

We amble through Padstow’s narrow streets, ducking instinctively towards Aloft, drawn in by the call of coastal homewares that none of us need but all of us desperately want. We touch everything, discuss at length the merits of objects we have no practical space for and inevitably someone emerges with a carefully wrapped parcel.

Then it’s on to Jam Industries, where the vibe shifts to laidback surf culture. There’s something irresistible about their soft tees and sweatshirts, the ones that feel like they’ve already lived a life before you even try them on.

A couple of us succumb. Someone else – resolute all morning – cracks and buys a beanie for beach walks and bad hair days. Finally, we pop into Bibi: A boutique of temptations: delicate jewellery, boutique clothing, things that whisper rather than shout. We browse slowly, reverently, as though in a gallery. Somehow, inevitably, more bags appear.

Shopping done, appetites sharpened, we head to Caffé Rojano for lunch. It is, as expected, busy and

The ferry across to Padstow is waiting, bustling with a mix of locals, walkers and visitors like us. We pile aboard, clutching the rail as the boat chugs across the water. The air is fresh enough to make your cheeks sting, but the view of Padstow’s

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buzzing, with tables full, plates clattering, waiters weaving expertly between diners. The room is bright with the happy hum of people who know they’re about to be well fed. We tuck into bowls of pasta so delicious we fall into a rare silence, punctuated only by the occasional “Oh my goodness, try this!” and the clink of glasses raised in toast to ten years of our annual escape.

at its best – are sublime, so much so that someone books another for the following morning.

Massages melt away tension, facials leave us glowing and the relaxation room becomes a temporary sanctuary where time seems to slow.

Afterwards, we drift between steam room, sauna, pool and hot tub in the spa, luxuriating in the simple joy of having nowhere else to be.

After lunch, full and content, we make our way back to the ferry, the return journey slower and softer. The tide has shifted, the estuary smelling sweet and earthy.

Back in Rock, we meander past bobbing boats and slipways before catching the electric minibus once more for the final stretch home to St Moritz.

We all conclude this is the perfect base for north-coast adventuring. The effortless ease of accommodation, location and exceptional service, should make St Moritz everyone’s go-to, whether for a romantic break, family holiday or a special stay with friends. We return to our balcony to sit outside, the dipping sun still warming our faces, sipping drinks in that effortless way that comes when no one is in a rush and everything feels exactly as it should be. By late afternoon our thoughts turn to the spa and, with the conviction of women on a mission, we make our way there. The treatments – Cowshed

As evening settles in, we return to our apartment, dress up just enough to feel special, and wander across to the hotel restaurant, Shorecrest. Dinner is elegant but unfussy, each plate a quiet triumph. We linger over every course, sharing bites, savouring flavours, replaying the day’s highlights and already plotting tomorrow’s adventures.

By the time we return to our apartment, the night is ink-black and scattered with stars. We stand on the balcony for a moment, wrapped in blankets, listening to the distant hush of the waves; a perfect punctuation mark to a weekend that has held everything we needed. And then, with happy exhaustion settling into our bones, we retreat one by one to soft beds and drifting dreams, grateful beyond measure for a place and a friendship that fills us up so completely. stmoritzhotel.co.uk

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A B OV E Nourishment for mind, body and soul

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Finding

SANCTUARY WORDS BY JAIME CROCKER

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Sophie Velzian’s My Helford Sketchbook feels both deeply personal and celebratory of place.

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The journey to these quiet coves, crossing open fields and descending ancient woodland paths, plays as important a role in the creative process as the painting that follows. This relatively undiscovered corner of Cornwall remains treasured by those who appreciate its unspoilt views, a sentiment Sophie shares wholeheartedly.

The painting Frenchman’s Creek Dusk captures that connection, its brooding palette and distinctive headland frequently resonating with others who hold the Helford close to their hearts.

t captures moments in time and space, ameliorating her frame of mind, “The deep green reflections gather at this end of the beach, wrapped around the rock slabs that skirt the bay. I am bathed in the greens – calming, rejuvenating. I have the place to myself, I rejoice.”

Art is a healing power, and for Sophie it has been especially true this year. After a sudden detoriation in her mother’s health from vascular dementia which brought a profound change to the family, Sophie sought sanctuary in her art and sketchbook as she navigated the challenging change in circumstances.

My Helford Sketchbook evolved quite organically.

At first, Sophie worked largely from memory and photographs, but midway through the project, she decided to fully commit to plein air painting. At the time, she was partway through the year-long Professional Landscape Painters mentoring programme at the Newlyn School of Art, where she was encouraged to embrace working directly from life. During this period, several weeks were spent exploring Harris, Lewis, Skye, and Loch Fyne in Scotland, travelling mostly by motorhome. Seeking a

The verdant beauty of the Helford River exerts a constant pull. Soft, moody light filtering through the trees and the enigmatic character of its creeks create an atmosphere that feels both calming and deeply connective. Swimming beneath the Monterey pines as they cast emerald shadows across the water offers a sense of deep restoration, while time spent along the shoreline becomes a genuine escape from the wider world.

PREVIOUS A surge of energy – gouache on paper, 20cm x 14cm

INSET In the studio

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ephemeral changes such as a passing cloud or a glint of sunlight on the water — and finding ways to capture the exact feeling of the moment.

medium that was portable and relatively messfree, she turned to gouache, which proved ideal and began keeping a dedicated Scotland sketchbook, painting every day from remote laybys and beaches. The views and shifting light were breathtaking, even amid the June rain, and she became completely absorbed in both the medium and the process. Painting outdoors felt deeply energising; she loved how elements like sand or grass would sometimes mix into the paint, becoming part of the texture itself.

While working on Bar Beach recently, a sudden burst of sunlight illuminated a single frond of seaweed in the shallows, transforming it into a vivid coral glow. The effect felt like an actor stepping into a spotlight, a moment that later inspired Seaweed in the Shallows. Back in the studio, experiences like these are distilled into short written passages that accompany the paintings, offering glimpses into the stories behind each scene.

On returning home, Sophie continued her plein air practice. Daily walks with her dog and regular swims became integral to a creative rhythm, with the same places appearing throughout the book. Favourite spots along the Helford River – Grebe Beach, Bar Beach and Scott’s Quay – draw her back time and again. Though familiar, they are never the same twice; each visit reveals new light, colour or atmosphere, while the distinctive silhouettes of the Grebe trees and Scott’s Quay headlands offer a reassuring continuity.

The studio practice operates quite differently.

Original gouache studies provide reference points, yet new pieces are given space to develop their own rhythm and direction, guided by the behaviour of the oil paint. Recent work has leaned further into abstraction, moving beyond direct representation so that each canvas stands on its own, defined by its particular energy and identity.

Colour remains at the core of Sophie’s approach. Bold tones often play a role, but equal attention is given to the nuanced shades found in skies and shadows.

The unexpected hues that surface within neutral palettes are a constant source of fascination. The Orange Buoy is a clear example, showing how depth and form can emerge through restraint and the delicate interplay of muted colours.

Painting often sparks instinctive moments of inspiration: a glint of light, a particular colour, a fleeting mood. Those instincts now guide both the visual work and the written reflections. On the walk home, Sophie often speaks her thoughts aloud, finding the words to capture the essence of the moment so that, once in the studio, the writing can flow naturally.

She regards My Helford Sketchbook as central to her practice. Her intention is now to produce an edition each year, reflecting whatever she has captured over the months. Rooted in her home,

Working outdoors has become central to Sophie’s artistic practice. Painting en plein air allows a deeper absorption of each location — noticing

INSET Three trees at Calamansac, on location

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A B OV E Spreads from the sketchbook

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TOP Resolute – oil on canvas, 50cm x 60cm

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A B OV E Dark curves, ebbing tide – gouache on paper, 14cm x 20cm

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The emotional experience of a landscape is as essential as its visual qualities. Peace, joy, calm, awe and excitement frequently arise when surrounded by nature, and conveying that emotional resonance to the viewer is central to the work. The paintings aim to create positivity, offer a sense of escape and encourage a more attentive appreciation of nature’s moments.

daily life, and personal rituals, the sketchbook remains the heartbeat of her work. Alongside these studies, she continues to develop larger paintings, while also taking her sketchbook to “guest” locations that fascinate her. Plans include a return to Scotland and a trip to Orkney, where her husband’s family and the Velzian name originate.

Sophie’s sketchbooks capture freshness and immediacy, with gouache proving the ideal medium for capturing the fast changing conditions. By contrast, the large canvases, executed in oil, evolve slowly, built up in layers that create a sense of history within the paint. Oil pigments offer the depth, colour and richness that Sophie loves, and the process often begins with loose applications before marks are refined using palette knives, squeegees, brayers and brushes.

Studio routines shift with the demands of each project. Work tends to be quick in pace but layered in structure, building a sense of time into every surface. Books and other artists provide constant inspiration — favourites include Joan Eardley, Andrew Gifford, Barbara Rae, the Impressionists and Turner. Recent discoveries of Canadian and Australian Impressionism have sparked interest in how colour palettes shift in new climates.

A lifelong passion for painting and drawing made art college an inevitable next step after school. Four years of Fine Art at the Slade School of Art in London followed, a period that broadened artistic horizons beyond painting into photography and sculpture. Phyllida Barlow, one of the era’s most remarkable tutors, provided invaluable encouragement and helped nurture a young artist’s confidence.

Even on days without a brush in hand, time in the studio is never wasted: framing, photographing finished pieces and keeping on top of the administrative side of an artist’s life all play their part, often with a laptop close by.

The hope is that the work uplifts and inspires — celebrating the healing power of art, the beauty of Cornwall, the value of being outdoors and the importance of slowing down to live fully in the moment. Colour and the joy of painting sit at the heart of every piece. Looking ahead, plans include developing larger works from this book, travelling again to Scotland and Orkney, and publishing a first Scotland sketchbook in early 2026.

Breaking into galleries in the mid-1990s proved difficult, especially in a pre-social-media landscape.

Engagement with the early Internet opened an unexpected door into web design and user experience, leading eventually to a fifteen-year career at Microsoft. The skillset built during that time now underpins an efficient and professional approach to self-employment in the arts.

Sophie exhibits with the Summerhouse Gallery in Marazion and will have a solo show next autumn which will be based on a new sketchbook and paintings collection.

Those years also cultivated a deep appreciation of place — quiet corners, stillness and immersion in the natural world. After so long spent in front of a computer, most days are now devoted to being outdoors and away from crowds.

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A sense of

PERSONALITY WORDS BY JAIME CROCKER

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Old-world charm meets modern luxury at one of Cornwall’s most enduring hotels.

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Then December arrives and the hotel transforms into a festive escape… heavily laden trees, golden light compete with festive celebrations. The bar and lounge simmer with upbeat conversation, and the scent of festive spices drifts through the air.

ore than just a place to stay while visiting Cornwall, the Penventon offers an escape from the everyday, it’s a place where Georgian glamour marries contemporary elegance, dedicated to creating extraordinary experiences that blend the richness of the past with the comfort of the present; where artisanal dining and theatrical drinks come together with genuine hospitality and hard to match service.

As an antidote to Cornwall’s wild winter coast, the Penventon offers a warm welcome – inviting you to slowly unwind and be completely looked after.

Dining experiences look toward the flavours of the season, spiced drinks appear on the menu and as December arrives, festive favourites take centre stage.

As the season turns to winter, the Penventon eases to a slower pace. It’s a time made for unhurried mornings, comforting flavours couched in indulgence.

Glowing lights and warm interiors set the scene for what one guest perfectly described as feeling like being “spoon-fed brandy and wrapped in cashmere”.

When the weather calls for retreat, the Leisure Club and Spa Treatment Rooms offer escape, where guests can relax and recharge. And as the new year begins, the focus turns to sedate, restorative stays, from the ever-popular

PREVIOUS Glamour and elegance combine

INSET Just for starters…

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As more destinations embrace dog-friendly travel, bringing pets along has become an essential part of modern hospitality. Their dedication to this was recently recognised when they were named Cornwall Living’s Best PetFriendly Business – a reflection of the genuine care that defines every stay.

Cornish Winter Warmer to spa breaks and cosy weekend getaways.

Family-owned for over 50 years, the Penventon celebrates its Georgian heritage with a contemporary twist. Rich golds, deep greens and warm reds create an atmosphere that feels both elegant and comforting, while European influences bring a sense of grandeur. From the hand-painted ceilings sporting Venetian chandeliers to the sculpted Copper Bar, every feature tells a story of craftsmanship.

Alongside the new dog-friendly dining area, they’re continuing to enhance their bedrooms for guests travelling with their pets. Several are being redesigned with Georgian-inspired details, hard flooring, and practical touches to make stays even more comfortable, while still maintaining dedicated nondog rooms for guests who prefer them.

Many of the professional team have been part of the Penventon family for years and their instinctive skills define the experience as much as the décor does. Nothing is too much trouble for them, they’re always ready to go that extra mile.

They’re also developing new wine-tasting rooms, a project that’s been in progress for over a year. With more than 170 wines already on the list and an expanding cellar that now includes rare allocations, fine vintages and beautifully approachable wines. These spaces will allow them to host intimate wine dinners and tasting experiences that celebrate the grape.

Looking ahead to 2026, they’re creating a dedicated area for dining with your dog.

Thoughtfully designed with the same warmth and flair that define the hotel, it will offer a relaxed and characterful atmosphere made for unhurried dining with your pet. Overlooking a grassed patio area, it’s being carefully planned to ensure that guests travelling with dogs never have to compromise on the experience.

The Dining Galleries Restaurant offers guests a chance to savour good food done well, surrounded by atmosphere and a sense of theatre. The name itself honours the hotel’s heritage. Much of the artwork that lines the walls was painted by David Pascoe, one of the hotel’s original owners, whose passion for art still defines the interiors of the Penventon today. Inspired by the Cornish coast,

More guests are choosing to travel with their dogs these days and by creating somewhere comfortable and welcoming for both guests and their dogs, they’re making travel feel much easier for everyone.

INSET Cosy rooms

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A B OV E A touch of luxury for all of Penventon’s guests

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TOP The Copper Gin Bar

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A B OV E Plank Steak – Heritage dish and flaming cocktails

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the flowers of the world, and the architecture of Italy, his works bring colour and personality to every corner – pieces you won’t find anywhere else, giving the restaurant a distinctive sense of place. Guests can enjoy heritage dishes such as their famous pil-pil prawns, Mrs P’s 60-year-old Italian recipe, and the iconic plank steak first served at the hotel in 1969.

the Afternoon Tea, complete with homemade treats, warm scones and Cornish clotted cream, which takes a festive turn throughout December.

It’s the perfect way to end a weekend that’s full of flavour and character at every juncture.

Their team is at the heart of everything they do.

Nothing is ever too much trouble, whether it’s arranging something special for a celebration or simply ensuring every guest, human or canine, feels genuinely cared for. And if you’re visiting for an occasion, be sure to let them know; you might just find a little extra treat waiting for you.

For those planning a short break between December and March a weekend at the Penventon is a chance to escape the ordinary.

From the moment you check in, your experience begins. You might head to your room to refresh, slip into the Leisure Club for a swim, or unwind with a treatment in the Spa Treatment Rooms before the evening ahead. The Copper Bar sets the scene perfectly – order the cocktail of the month, a curated gin or rum board, or explore a glass from the extensive wine list before dining.

In summation, a stay at the Penventon leaves you with the feeling that you’ve experienced something different with a desire to return at some future date. And while winter brings its own charm at the hotel, offering cosy corners and comforting flavours the staff hope departing guests will leave curious about what the other seasons hold.

Whether you choose to spend your days exploring or simply settling in, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Penventon’s location in the heart of Cornwall means some of the county’s best beaches, gardens and attractions are within easy reach (but staying in can be just as inviting). And before you leave, there’s one final indulgence not to miss…

What will the gardens be like in spring, how will summer evenings feel on the patio? There is only one way to find out. penventon.co.uk

A B OV E Indulgent afternoon teas

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A world AWAY WORDS BY JAMIE CROCKER

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A destination that boasts five-star comfort with the natural world right on its doorstep.

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to carry that legacy forward: to offer a fivestar experience that still feels personal and grounded in the same values we began with.

ooda Farm Holiday Park is a success story. Celebrating fifty years in business this year, Charlotte Veale, Director, offers an insight into how and why it has reached this milestone.

How would you describe the accommodation offering and how it differs from standard holiday parks?

What was the motivation to create Wooda Farm Holiday Park in its current form?

We’ve worked hard to create something that feels different from the traditional idea of a holiday park. Our accommodation ranges from luxury holiday homes and lodges with sea views, to beautifully designed cottages and spacious touring pitches, all of which benefit from our attention to detail. Everything is designed to feel calm and well-maintained. We like to think it’s a holiday park, but one that feels more like a boutique resort in the countryside.

Wooda has always been about family, both ours and those who come to stay. My grandparents first opened the gates to campers in the 1970s, welcoming guests onto the farm simply because they wanted to share this beautiful corner of Cornwall. Over the years, my parents have developed the park with the same care and intention, allowing it to grow slowly, always bearing in mind what families want from a holiday.

Today, as the next generation, my goal is

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The balance happens quite naturally because everyone who books seems to value what we have crafted here at Wooda.

Sustainability and nature often matter to guests: how does Wooda address these?

Sustainability is part of who we are, not just something we talk about. Being a working farm, we’re constantly mindful of the land and how we look after it. We have EV charging points, and are investing in more renewable energy sources.

We care for wildflower meadows, create wildlife habitats, and we’re always looking for new ways to reduce waste. But beyond that, I think guests can sense that Wooda is a place where nature is respected, and we encourage guests to do the same. We also encourage them to engage with it, whether that’s through woodland walks, spotting wildlife, or simply slowing down to enjoy the view.

How do you ensure the quality of the guest experience, given the range of offerings?

It’s all in the details and the people. We’re really lucky to have a team that takes pride in everything they do, from housekeeping to maintenance, from reception to the restaurant. Many have been with us for years and feel like part of the family.

We continually invest in our facilities and listen closely to guest feedback. But more than anything, we care very much about the experience people have here. Every decision we make comes back to whether it will make our guests’ holidays better.

What kinds of guests do you cater for, and how do you balance different demands?

What role does seasonality play in your offering, especially during winter?

We welcome such a real mix of people, from families who return year after year, couples seeking a quiet escape, friends exploring the coast or even guests who come to work remotely. The key is in how the park is laid out and managed; we’ve created areas that suit different moods and needs. Families have space to play, while others can find peaceful corners to unwind.

Seasonality is one of the things I love most about Cornwall. Each season brings its own character, from the buzz of summer, the golden calm of autumn, the wild beauty of winter. In recent years, we’ve seen more guests embracing winter stays in our cottages and lodges. There’s something very special about crisp walks on an

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empty beach, followed by a cosy evening by the fire. We’re passionate about showing people that Cornwall isn’t just a summer destination but an escape that can be enjoyed all year round.

The design of our accommodation is modern and stylish, and the atmosphere is calm and friendly.

Many guests tell us they were surprised at how different Wooda feels from a traditional park. Once people visit, they usually understand exactly what makes us unique.

How do you support the local community and regional identity in Cornwall?

What future developments or enhancements are you planning?

Supporting local informs everything we do. From the produce we serve to the Cornish suppliers we use in our shop, we always try to champion local businesses. We employ local people and work closely with the community around Bude, which includes local schools and charities to local events.

Cornwall has such a strong sense of identity, and we’re proud to be part of that story, helping guests experience genuine Cornish hospitality and craftsmanship.

2025 has been a particularly exciting year for us as it marked Wooda’s 50th anniversary, which was a huge milestone for our family and team. Looking ahead, we’re continuing to invest in sustainability and exploring new ways to enhance our accommodation offering while keeping that personal, familyrun feel that defines Wooda.

Finally, what do you hope guests feel when they leave Wooda?

If you were speaking to someone who thought “holiday park” meant noisy, low-quality, mass-market, how would you reassure them?

I hope they leave feeling restored, calmer, happier, and a little more connected to nature and each other.

Wooda has a certain energy; people often say it’s hard to describe but easy to feel. For me, that’s the magic of this place, it gives people space to breathe.

When guests drive away already planning their next visit, that’s when we know we’ve done our job!

I completely understand that perception, but Wooda really does challenge it. We’re an independent, family-run business, and that personal touch shapes what we offer. The park is beautifully landscaped, peaceful, and immaculately kept.

wooda.co.uk

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Rising above

THE ORDINARY WORDS BY JAMIE CROCKER

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SU STA I N

Situated in one of the country’s most appealing locations, The Soar, offers a peaceful bolt hole.

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s a private collection of holiday homes it already exhibits aspirational intent.

Couple this with the Scandinavian inspired design and attention to detail, each property, in this gated estate, beckons to those who desire a home from home, where relaxation and the chance to unwind are compulsory. It is quite literally a haven on the South Devon coast.

Having decided upon the general form it was the particularities that then came under the designers’ scrutiny. Each of the three property layouts – The Bolberry, The Bigbury and The Thurlestone – offer 900 sq. ft. of interior space.

The Bolberry has three bedrooms, including a master en suite, a further family bathroom and two cosy bunk beds designed for children, with a fibre optic starlight display above. The kitchen, living room and dining space is positioned at the end of the property, creating a separation between the reception and accommodation zones. French doors lead from the dining area to the terrace, providing a versatile entertaining space.

From the outset the vision was clear. By partnering with an architect-led construction company in Northamptonshire, the goal was to design three distinct layouts that would make the most of the location’s natural advantages. With the estate benefiting from all-day sunlight, the designs were focused on maximizing light and space. This led to the inclusion of vaulted roofs and expansive floor-to-ceiling aluminium wrap-around windows, which not only frame stunning views of the surrounding countryside but also flood the interiors with natural brightness. Throughout the properties, the timber interiors enhance the warm, inviting atmosphere.

The Bigbury also boasts three bedrooms, including a master en suite, a further family bathroom and two inviting bunk beds designed for children, with a fibre optic starlight display above. The kitchen, living room and dining area is positioned within the centre of the property, with bedrooms and bathrooms either side. A terrace runs the full length of the property.

PREVIOUS Views over Salcombe

INSET Thurlestone

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The Bigbury and Bolberry offer buyers the flexibility to choose an internal layout that best suits their lifestyle. Those who prefer a more open-plan design can opt for the Bigbury layout, while those who value a clearer distinction between the reception and accommodation spaces may prefer the Bolberry.

development uses high-quality, durable materials, including Thermowood exterior cladding, which comes with a 40-year warranty, ensuring longlasting performance thus reducing the need for regular replacement, unlike cheaper, lower-grade alternatives. And due to the site’s close proximity to the sea, powder-coated aluminium windows were chosen, which have a high resistance to corrosion, ensuring that they remain in situ longer than budget alternatives.

The Thurlestone offers two bedrooms, including a more generously sized master en suite with additional walk-in wardrobe space. The property does not feature the bunk bedroom seen with the Bolberry and Bigbury layouts, which has enabled the creation of the larger master en suite. Like the Bolberry, the kitchen, dining and living space is contained at the end of the property with a terrace creating a versatile outdoor space.

The location above the stunning coastline is clearly significant. Only a five-minute walk from Soar Mill Cove, rated a Top 50 UK beach by The Times, the site is firmly connected to its surrounding location. The architectural elements of each home, in particular the floor-to-ceiling aluminium wrap-around windows, frame wonderful views of the local area and the outdoor terraces allow you to sit and enjoy the peaceful estate which borders protected National Trust land.

There are plenty of walking routes from the estate, leading along the dramatic coastline and through Bolberry Down and East Soar Nature Reserve, which is perfect for dog walking. Only a short drive from Salcombe, owners can readily enjoy the water sports, dining and retail outlets the town has to offer. Boat storage nearby also enables owners to easily partake in Salcombe’s water-based activities without having to resort to a mooring in the town.

Integrated Bosch appliances, including a wine cooler, oven, microwave, dishwasher, fridge-freezer and washerdryer come as standard while Morsø log burners, Sonos inceiling speaker systems and air conditioning can be installed as an optional extra – perfect for staying in your holiday home throughout the seasons.

All properties benefit from high-speed internet enabling connectivity when staying at your holiday home.

Sustainability was also high on the list of considerations when construction began.

Each property at The Soar is fully electric, constructed with SIPS panels for superior insulation, and equipped with air source heat pumps to help reduce carbon emissions. Smart learning thermostats are installed in every home, adapting to owners’ routines to optimise energy use and deliver automatic savings. With no reliance on fossil fuels, the properties are designed to minimise environmental impact. The

One of the most appealing incentives of owning a property at The Soar is the 999-year lease, allowing properties to be passed down through generations and creating a lasting legacy. The development encourages long-term ownership, fostering the idea that these properties will remain in families for years to come.

INSET Bolberry

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TOP & MIDDLE Bolberry

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A B OV E Bigbury

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TOP Bigbury

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A B OV E & M I D D L E Thurlestone

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home’s warranties to buyers, providing them with peace of mind before purchasing. The team guides prospective buyers on all viewings and demonstrates the homes’ versatility as family destinations or the perfect bolthole for couples to host friends and family.

For an additional cost a concierge service is available whereby owners have the option to sublet their properties when not in use, creating a potential income stream. It is anticipated that many owners will take advantage of this opportunity, offering an attractive way to generate revenue while enjoying the flexibility of inhabiting their property when it suits.

Casting an eye toward the future The Soar seems set to mature into something that will be enhanced by the passage of time. With no council tax or stamp duty payable, they see newly launched properties becoming a popular option for holiday home ownership in this appealing area. As the plots sell, they are looking forward to building a community of like-minded people, who have the commonality of ownership combined with a mutual love of water sports, Salcombe and the stunning South Devon countryside. It is also likely that people will purchase holiday homes at The Soar and let them out when not in use, allowing them to enjoy their property while also enabling others to discover the local area too.

The on-site Bolt Club is a private clubhouse on the estate exclusively for the use of owners.

It offers a pantry with complimentary tea and coffee, a sitting room space to relax and catch up with fellow owners, a study to take calls and work remotely, plus a yoga studio and fitness suite with free weights and Peloton equipment. Additionally, the clubhouse’s courtyard garden offers a barbecue area for hosting lunches and dinners, facilitating a social element to ownership.

Unlike some sites, transparency with owners was a consideration that was and remains paramount.

Aligned with the attractive 999-leasehold element The Soar clearly communicates the

thesoarsalcombe.com

A B OV E Still waters at Salcombe

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Extending

THE APPEAL WORDS BY JAMIE CROCKER

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Cornwall holiday cottages now offer guests connective experiences.

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Today, Old Lanwarnick has been transformed into a captivating holiday destination while staying true to its past. The journey from working farm to collection of holiday cottages began in 2010, when the barns and farmhouse underwent extensive renovation. Since then, it has built a reputation as a beautiful, peaceful retreat in the capable hands of Matthew and Vicky.

ld Lanwarnick has long been recognised for offering family-oriented, dog-friendly accommodation that allows visitors to explore Cornwall beyond the usual tourist routes.

Its story began in 1086, though its roots likely reach back further still.

The estate earned its first mention in the Domesday Book – England’s pioneering census, commissioned by William the Conqueror to document the nation’s wealth. In those early days, it was a modest agricultural holding: two villagers, three smallholders and one slave tending to an assortment of pigs, sheep and goats.

Through the centuries that followed, Old Lanwarnick’s fortunes have risen and fallen with the shifting demands of the local and national economy.

Spanning 34 acres of fields and woodland, the property provides a mix of historic cottages converted from farm buildings and a landscape that encourages curiosity and engagement. Recent additions to the estate, however, have transformed the visitor experience: a herd of alpacas.

What began with five pregnant females has expanded into a group of 14, including four newborns and five recently acquired males

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destined for trekking. The decision to introduce alpacas was driven by practicality and a touch of serendipity. The owners sought a way to manage the estate’s grassy expanses without relying on sheep or cattle. Repeated encounters with other breeders and owners convinced them that alpacas could provide both land maintenance and an engaging experience for visitors.

who come year in year out and sit and watch the chickens and ducks for hours because they don’t see them where they live. So, introducing Alpacas was a natural extension of an ongoing animal experience, having witnessed the joy and curiosity that animals bring.”

The trekking initiative is not simply a novelty.

It encourages visitors to make use of Old Lanwarnick’s acreage in a manner that is both motivating and enjoyable. Paths weave through open fields and wooded slopes, sometimes cutting into gradients that highlight the Cornish light on trees and distant hills.

The route planning takes into account both the animals’ pace and visitor engagement, ensuring that each walk provides moments to pause and appreciate the surroundings, or perhaps enjoy a picnic while observing the herd.

Alpacas offer a gentle presence as opposed to the more traditional choice of so-called land-management animals – sheep – which will eventually destroy everything in their path, creating a green desert.

Although not native to these islands, Alpacas give more than they take away. The females, selected for breeding and their dark brown and black coats, are sociable, often approaching guests who pause by the fencing. The males who sport an array of different colours for ease of identification, and have been deliberately chosen for trekking, are slowly acclimatising to human interaction. Their training will ultimately enable visitors to lead them along designated walking routes, offering a close-up encounter with the animals while exploring the estate’s varied terrain.

As Vicky acknowledges, “Guests always like to come and see the animals. We’ve got chickens and ducks as well as bees on-site. Some arrive having never held a chicken. We’ve got some

The estate’s approach to education complements the trekking. Young visitors are invited to learn about the alpacas’ care and behaviour, while adults can explore the uses of alpaca byproducts. Vicky explains, “We only had five alpacas when they were sheared in June, so we didn’t have enough fleece to send to a mill – you need at least 20 kilos for that. Next year, we’ll have enough to get our own wool processed, but

INSET Arwen

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A B OV E Alpaca paradise on the rolling Cornish hills

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A B OV E A mother alpaca and cria

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The ones with alpaca poo grew to about four times the size of those without!”

in the meantime, we’ve been experimenting.

We’re felting, learning to spin and finding creative ways to turn the fleece into beautiful, sellable items.” It’s a tight cyclical economy that carries with it benefits for Vicky and Matthew in terms of income, as well as keepsakes for guests when they depart, along with helping to maintain the landscape.

The experience is not staged; visitors often witness natural events, such as a new born cria (a young alpaca) joining the herd. Such moments provide an unmediated encounter with the animals, deepening appreciation for the care and attention required in their management.

The fleece, finer and more insulating than Merino wool, presents a premium material, capable of producing garments that are light, soft and comfortable.

She continues, “One of the things we’d love to do is run short courses for our guests – something hands-on and fun, like a felting workshop or an introduction to the animals. It would be a chance for people to learn a little, get creative, and enjoy a truly farm-based experience during their stay.”

Alpacas are not the only draw to Old Lanwarnick.

The accommodation is firstrate. Each cottage maintains character through vaulted ceilings, flagstone floors, which are enhanced by historical detailing. Modern comforts include Egyptian cotton bedding, in-house spa treatments and wood burners, which have been thoughtfully integrated, ensuring families, couples and groups can benefit from both the practical and comfortable aspects of each property. Dog owners are especially welcome with secure dog exercise areas provided for their four-legged companions, while all visitors are encouraged to explore the estate’s flora and fauna, from private woodland walks to spotting local birds and wildlife.

Beyond textile production, the alpacas’ waste is dried and repurposed by Matthew, making for a very effective fertiliser, or it is formed into bricks suitable for burning, which neatly coincides with Old Lanwarnick’s sustainable practices.

Enthusiastically, Vicky adds, “We’ve given some to our neighbours to try, and they’ve said they’ve had the best fruit and veg they’ve ever grown.

Someone else did a little test on their cabbage.

The estate’s ongoing development demonstrates a willingness to innovate. Paths are adapted to

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accommodate trekking, seasonal movements of animals are planned to support breeding cycles, and educational activities are designed to enrich the visitor experience. Plans include numbered spotting boards to guide exploration, and a mixture of routes that balance shade, open fields, and scenic viewpoints. Each element is intended to foster engagement without compromising the integrity of the land or the well-being of its inhabitants.

Christmas, which will be fun, but our main focus will remain on growing our alpaca family.

For us, it’s about enjoying the process, learning as we go, and creating a unique experience for our guests.”

Old Lanwarnick’s alpacas have, in effect, redefined the expectations of a countryside retreat. By integrating an educational and interactive element into a high-standard accommodation offering, the estate demonstrates how even a family-oriented, dogfriendly property can innovate within its sector.

It’s an ongoing project grounded in curiosity and adaptability, where guests are invited to share in the pleasure that can be derived from having a greater engagement with the natural world.

Concluding, Vicky adds, “We’re really passionate about our alpacas, and learning about them has been such a journey. From understanding their fleece and how to process it, to mastering the husbandry side, there’s a lot people don’t realise about what being an alpaca owner involves. The weekly checks, the injections, the care, it’s all on us. We’re also adding some pygmy goats around

oldlanwarnick.co.uk

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A B OV E A place where time stands still

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The art of SLOWING down WORDS BY ROSIE CATTRELL

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As the evenings draw in and the lights dim, three historic hotels reveal a combination of heritage and hospitality.

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landmarks that each hold their own distinct identity. Across coast and city, from harbourside to oceanfront, their walls tell tales of eras past, of evolving tastes and enduring charm. Under the guidance of Managing Director Ben Young, the Collection continues to honour this legacy while shaping it for the modern traveller. “Each of our hotels carries a different identity,” he reflects. “We take great pride in preserving their histories while ensuring guests experience Cornwall in a way that feels both authentic and extraordinary.”

hen the clocks turn back, Cornwall exhales to reveal a secret season known best by those who stay to watch the light change.

Sea mists roll over headlands, villages are lit by lamplight and the tides continue their eternal sway, marking time in the spaces between winter and spring.

It’s in these months that the Duchy’s true spirit is felt. For centuries, travellers have been drawn to Cornwall’s shores.

The expanse of coastline, the sweep of countryside edged with moorland and its fishing towns have long been a tonic for those seeking reprieve from life elsewhere. To stand at the edge of the land is to feel both wonderfully small and entirely free, a sensation that has inspired generations of artists, writers and wanderers to capture its essence.

Hidden in the heart of Truro lies The Alverton, an elegant retreat built in 1830 as a family home for the Tweedys, its stately stone façade and sweeping lawns still evoking an air of Victorian grace. The Alverton’s story, however, runs far deeper than its architectural grandeur. In 1883, a group of nuns – the Order of the Epiphany – transformed the residence into a convent, building the now-iconic Great Hall,

For those visiting at this time of year, the Cornwall Hotel Collection offers a trio of historic Cornish

PREVIOUS The Alverton, where history is honoured

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It’s a city escape with a country heart.

Follow the winding roads west and you’ll find The Greenbank in Falmouth, on the edge of the River Fal. Its story stretches back to 1640, making it one of the oldest hotels in the region, a cornerstone of Cornish hospitality that has long served as both haven and inspiration. In the summer of 1907, author Kenneth Grahame looked out from his room across the glimmering water and began to pen letters to his young son, musings that would later form the beloved Wind in the Willows.

whose soaring arches and stained glass still echo with reverence. Designed by the same architects responsible for Truro Cathedral, it’s a space that carries its own kind of sacred stillness.

Step through the heavy oak doors today and the atmosphere remains one of calm and contemplation. The Great Hall now hosts celebrations rather than sermons, yet its sense of wonder endures.

Beyond, ivy-clad walls and fairytale gardens lend The Alverton an air of seclusion rarely found in a city. The enchanting architecture invites exploration and the luxurious suites – with rolltop baths and high ceilings – combine the charm of old stone with the ease of modern comfort, accompanied by the lull of birdsong just beyond the windows. In winter, when frost gathers on the lawns and the cathedral bells toll faintly in the distance, the hotel feels almost otherworldly.

It’s easy to understand why such musings took shape here.

The Greenbank seems to hover between land and water, its windows framing the constant dance of tide and light. The gentle clink of rigging in the marina below, the scent of salt carried on the breeze form the backdrop to a place that feels both timeless and alive.

Inside, Head Chef Bobby Southworth leads the team at the Water’s Edge restaurant, where each plate tells a story of place and season. The menus shift with the weather, celebrating Cornwall’s farmers, fishermen and foragers. Winter brings slowcooked flavours, root vegetables, and comforting richness; summer offers delicate seafood and bright garden herbs.

The restaurant too, is a study in excellence. Local flavours take centre stage, presented with an elegance that feels at once refined and deeply rooted. Afternoon tea, served beneath the gentle light of The Great Hall’s windows, is a ceremony of its own. The Alverton’s allure lies in its balance; historic yet fresh, grand yet welcoming.

INSET The Alverton’s two AA-rosette award-winning restaurant © Milly Fletcher

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TOP The Greenbank – raising a glass at the Water’s Edge restaurant (left) and harbour-view luxury in the Florence Suite (right)

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A B OV E The Garden Suite at The Alverton, featuring bespoke artwork created from the rare leaves found in the garden

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A B OV E The Greenbank, where water meets sky

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A B OV E A Cornish icon; The Falmouth

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When the storms roll in, waves lash the shore and the air is filled with the scent of salt and seaweed; an exciting contrast to the endless shades of turquoise that seem to stretch out across the horizon in the summer.

From the panoramic windows of the restaurant, dawn spills gold across the water as breakfast is served, the view unchanged since Grahame’s day, yet eternally captivating. Later, as the afternoon light softens guests linger over cream teas and glasses of wine, the harbour alive with movement. Each of The Greenbank’s rooms carries this connection to the water – sea-inspired hues, gentle textures and the hush of the river lapping below. The Florence and Lookout Suites, with their roll-top baths and floor-to-ceiling windows, offer that rare combination of grandeur and serenity… the sort of luxury that Cornwall does best.

The hotel’s Castle View restaurant is the heart of this reborn landmark. Overseen by Head Chef Tim Pile, it brings together the best seasonal flavours in an atmosphere that feels both refined and relaxed.

Guests linger over stone-baked pizzas, freshly caught seafood, Sunday lunches worthy of tradition and afternoon tea, enjoyed as sailboats drift lazily by. For those seeking rest after a windswept walk along the coast, the indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and spa provide a sanctuary of warmth and calm. The blend of old-world charm and modern comfort captures something essentially Cornish.

And then there is The Falmouth, one of Cornwall’s most recognisable coastal landmarks. Standing proudly on the seafront since 1865, its grand Victorian architecture and manicured grounds speak to a bygone era of seaside leisure. Built at the height of the Great Western Railway’s expansion into Cornwall, it became the very embodiment of the Victorian dream; escape to the sea, breathe the salt air, and let the stresses of city life fall away. Now, under the stewardship of the Cornwall Hotel Collection, The Falmouth is poised for a new chapter. “We’re honoured to bring The Falmouth into our family,” Ben continues. “It’s a building steeped in memory, and we see it as both a privilege and a responsibility to ensure its legacy continues for generations to come.”

Across the Collection, this balance defines the experience. Each hotel is a story in itself, yet together they form a narrative of Cornwall through the ages: a maritime legacy, an artistic spirit and connection to the landscape. In summer, these places hum with energy – boats on the river, weddings in the gardens, laughter spilling onto sunlit terraces. In winter, their beauty is no less radiant, simply a little gentler around the edges.

For those who seek to know Cornwall beyond its postcard summer image, this is the time to visit. The air is clear, the sea wild and silvered, while, within the hotels, warmth overflows and candlelit conversations stretch long into the evening over good food and local wine. It’s easy to see why Cornwall’s so-called ‘secret season’ is no longer much of a secret at all.

Within its striking façade, intricate details nod to the hotel’s illustrious history as high ceilings and sweeping staircases offer a faint echo of footsteps from another time. Yet the atmosphere remains distinctly welcoming. With 71 rooms, many gazing straight out to sea, The Falmouth offers an unbroken view of Cornwall’s dramatic coastline. Pendennis Castle stands watch from the headland, and Castle Beach, just steps away, hums with life even in the chill of winter.

thealverton.co.uk greenbank-hotel.co.uk falmouthhotel.co.uk

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Salved by

THE SEA

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We’ve heard it said, we’ve felt it, and now there’s ever-growing evidence to explain it: time by the sea can salve the stresses of life and supercharge fitness effects.

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conservationist and researcher Wallace J. Nichols proposed a theory about how we all fundamentally feel better when we’re near the water. Water is an intrinsic element of our lives, he argues: we spend our first nine months of existence in it, and from the cytoplasm in our cells to the blood in our veins, we’re made up of 60% water – so is it really so surprising we feel such an affinity for it?

ost of us just know that getting out in nature is good for us. That’s a long-standing belief, but today the evidence is stacking up to explain it and increasingly suggests that spending time by the water might be the best thing you can do.

Known as the blue mind theory or blue space effect, the healing power of the water is fertile ground for academic research. Seeking to explain the Victorian doctors’ notion that beach strolls and sea dips could cure most ills, study after study is revealing a myriad of positive effects the sea can have on physical and mental health.

Numerous studies have backed up Nichols’ theory, including the development of blue gym thinking. In 2016, a report by the Marine Biological Association showed people exercising by the sea seem to experience more health benefits than those exercising elsewhere, suggesting that if you choose an early morning surf or a jog by the coast, you might well be getting an extra health hit for the same amount of effort.

In his bestselling 2014 book, Blue Mind: How Water Makes You Happier, More Connected and Better at What You Do, the U.S. writer,

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Do you harbour a fond, lingering memory of a summer holiday by a special stretch of sea – an unforgettable day in the surf or adventuring between rocky caves and pools?

Cold water immersion is another area that’s been scrutinised by studies.

This year, a team at the University of South Australia found that cold-water therapy lowers stress, improves sleep and reduces inflammation, one of many to show such findings. For maximum benefit, you need to take the plunge when the water is at its coldest.

A study across 18 European countries found that children who spend time by the water when they’re young tend to grow up to be happier adults, with lower rates of depression and better mental health.

If the thought of the winter sea sends a chill through you, combining cold water with woodfired heat could be the answer. Coastal saunas promise the dual benefits of cold water and purifying heat.

Some of the other lasting benefits of being by the sea could be the positive effects that have been recorded when people look at fractal patterns – found in the waves, sand and seashells – or by absorbing the increased oxygen and higher light levels found along the coast.

Sauna time has been linked to improved metabolism, detoxification and a healthier heart.

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list of wave-seeker spots perfectly positioned 400m or less to where the waves break.

Increasingly, we can benefit from the ‘attention restoration’ that happens at the coast. This idea of a brain reset to a more natural, stress-free state was first proposed by Rachel and Stephen Kaplan in the 1980s. In our hyper-connected, highly-pressured, over-digitalised world, setting out to the shoreline could be the best way to escape the screens.

Or curate your stay from the Space + Style Blend, where open beach-side inspired interiors offer the space for up to nine guests. For a big, unforgettable break with everyone, the Celebration Series offers terraces for outdoor cook-ups, poolside sunbathing and morning gym sessions.

Curate your blue space. Staying footsteps from the sea creates the freedom to experience the blue health effects as you want to. All Beach Retreats properties are within walking distance to the sea, giving you the freedom to choose your beach and the place that’s right. Think iconic settings with saunas and hot tubs for indulgent and remarkable retreats, through to a tantalising

If it’s a last-minute sea fix that’s needed, look to the Boundless Selection, smaller, potentialpacked stays minutes from the beach. Whatever life throws your way, look to the sea for a salve. beachretreats.co.uk

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Capturing the

KALEIDOSCOPE T he new Aya Collection from Michael Spiers is at once beautiful, colourful and divine.

Showcasing six gemstones that inspire a fresh take on vintage design, these pieces are designed for mixing, styling and layering. Fuse playfulness with bold, striking gemstones and wear them with pride. michaelspiers.co.uk Prices may vary according to model and size.

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B I J O U X

AYA 1 8 C T Y E L L O W G O L D W H I T E Q U A RT Z R I N G – £1,250

AYA 1 8 C T Y E L L O W G O L D S K Y B L U E T O P A Z P E N D A N T – £1,195

AYA 1 8 C T Y E L L O W G O L D G R E E N A M E T H Y S T E A R R I N G S – £1,395

AYA 1 8 C T Y E L L O W G O L D G A R N E T R I N G – £1,250

AYA 1 8 C T Y E L L O W G O L D C I T R I N E P E N D A N T – £1,195

AYA 1 8 C T Y E L L O W G O L D A M E T H Y S T E A R R I N G S – £1,395

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I N SPI R AT I O N

The Plot THICKENS WO R D S B Y H A N N A H TA P P I N G

Former medieval Cornish language scholar turned crime writer, Myrna Combellack, delivers a novel that is both entertaining and authentic in equal measure.

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Born in 1948, she grew up as an only child in a remote Cornish village where drinking water had to be fetched from a natural spring on Carn Marth, half a mile away. Myrna tells me: “I began reading and writing as soon as I could.

Without electricity, there was no entertainment, except learning to play the piano, sewing, knitting, cooking and walking.

I knew every road and lane for miles around. I remember men in brightly coloured, short sleeved shirts wandering about the lanes. They were miners returning from abroad. The hillsides were littered with heavy mining equipment and in the valley, there were the remains of the tin stamps, which my mother remembered working. There were cold arsenic flues and engine houses. A child could stay out all day, but we were warned never to stray off the path, because the ground, covered in heather and gorse, could give way, and you could be lost forever in some shaft. It might take months to find you.”

hen Myrna Combellack sits down to write crime fiction, she brings something rare to the page: authenticity forged from decades of living between Cornwall’s two worlds. As a former academic specialising in medieval Cornish language at the University of Exeter, and later a schoolteacher who experienced the realities of life both locally and abroad, Myrna understands the stark contrasts that define modern Cornwall and she’s not afraid to write about them.

Her latest novel, Lithium Betty, plunges readers into a Gothic thriller set against the backdrop of Cornwall’s mining heritage and its uncertain future. The story follows Betty, a carer who discovers a body in a remote clifftop castle and becomes entangled in a sinister conspiracy involving a corrupt police commissioner, international mining interests and a mineral rights wrangle. Myrna’s journey to crime fiction writing began in childhood.

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“School was school,” continues Myrna, “with a map on the wall with a lot of pink, which depicted British territories. Cornwall was special. It gave fast steam and the industrial revolution to the world. In the graveyards, the headstones recorded not only those who had remained or returned to the parish, but also those who died in Mexico, South Africa, Australia, South America and the United States. Our family had cousins in all of those places, so the wide world was already a familiar place. After studying English at university, I then worked for many years for the University of Exeter as an academic, still watching and scribbling, and I’ve never stopped writing fiction set in real Cornwall.”

Despite her literary background, Myrna is refreshingly pragmatic about her craft. Working with her mentor Oliver Harris, a spy thriller writer, she learned the mathematics of successful crime fiction: a dead body within five pages, complications building to three-quarters through, then the unravelling. “It can be done almost mathematically,” she admits.

Yet within these structures, Myrna’s distinctive voice emerges, one that is humorous, gritty, and unflinchingly honest about Cornwall’s economic realities.

“There are rich pickings in Cornwall for the writer who is able to observe with a keen eye,” she tells me. “Winston Graham is a case in point. In his historical Poldark novels, he researched the complexities of mining, banking and political influences on his characters, rich and poor.”

Researching for Lithium Betty, Myrna delved deep into Cornwall’s mining traditions, its history, government grants and the environmental implications. The novel grapples with real tensions: international companies eyeing

Cornwall’s mineral wealth, local communities desperate for prosperity and the collision between heritage and development.

Lithium Betty opens with its protagonist arriving at a clifftop castle (inspired by Carn Brea but larger, more Gothic) to care for the elderly Lady Legeia, only to find her already dead. What unfolds is part murder mystery, part social commentary, as Betty navigates three very weird sisters, a corrupt police commissioner with designs on mineral rights and her own husband’s mysterious connection to an international mining conglomerate. While the novel’s setting is fictional, it evokes Camborne and Redruth, mining towns where prosperity has departed and hope hinges on lithium and tin extraction. By the end, the international company has transformed the castle into its European headquarters. It’s a tale that’s ambiguous, unsettling and deliberately so. “It’s quite kind of sinister, the way the international company works,” Myrna notes.

Her tongue-in-cheek approach asks uncomfortable questions about who truly benefits when Cornwall becomes a commodity and Myrna is committed to showing her readers something beyond the Cornwall that exists when the visitors leave, when the mine closures bite, when the choice is one of survival. It’s this tension, between romance and reality, heritage and progress, insider and outsider, that makes Myrna’s crime fiction genuinely compelling.

Lithium Betty by Myrna Combellack (PBK, RRP £18.00) is published by Lendal Press in November 2025. valleypressuk.com

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