Discover Port Isaac & Polzeath 2018

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ON THE BIG SCREEN • EATING OUT • INDEPENDENT SHOPS

Welcome to

Hello and welcome to the 2018 edition of Discover Port Isaac & Polzeath.

These little fishing villages are just a stone’s throw away from each other, and are both fantastic places to explore and enjoy. Port Isaac boasts many quaint historic cottages which line the narrow streets, and it has been chosen as the location for many TV and film productions, most notably ITV’s Doc Martin - which you can find out more about on page 15.

Polzeath is the home of arguably one of the best beaches in Cornwall, and is a well known surfers paradise.

With plenty of rock pools to explore and wildlife to spot, along with shops to browse and restaurants to enjoy, it’s the perfect place to spend the day.

We hope this guide helps you to get the most out of your time here, and we look forward to coming with you as you Discover Port Isaac & Polzeath.

DID YOU KNOW?

Port Isaac has one of the narrowest alleyways in Britain called ‘Squeezy Belly Alley’!’

04. T he sound of the sea: The Fisherman's Friends 06. Five of our favourite things to do 08. Do not miss: Polzeath Beach 12. M ap of Port Isaac & Polzeath 15. Port Isaac on the big screen 20. O ur favourite independent shops 22. Five of our favourite places to eat

Published by Event Partnership Publishing Limited Krowji, West Park, Redruth, TR15 3AJ 01209 808118 - www.eventpp.co.uk - hello@eventpp.co.uk Editorial: Bethany Harrington bethany@eventpp.co.uk Copy Editor: Lorraine Williams www.lighthouseproofreading.co.uk Map Design: Melanie Chadwick www.melaniechadwick.com Advertising: Lisa Flahant lisa@eventpp.co.uk DISCOVER PORT ISAAC & POLZEATH 3

Current members of the group are Cleavie, Johnny Mac, Jeremy John B, Toby, Billy, Lefty and Jason

The sound of the

SEA

LEFT Johnny Mac

You may have heard of a sea shanty before, a tune that was sung by those on board a boat when working out to sea many years ago...

You may have also heard that sea shanties are a thing of the past - but you would be wrong. The Fisherman’s Friends are a male choir who have brought the sea shanty back to life for many years and continue to entertain people with their quirky and unique style.

Nearly all of the original members of the group grew up in Port Isaac, with all of them linked to the sea in one way or another. First and foremost the group were friends, but their love of singing along with keen interest in sea shanties meant that The Fisherman’s Friends were born. Meeting on Port Isaac Harbour, they would sing to raise money for charity and very quickly became popular and a breath of fresh air to the music world.

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With a record deal under their belt along with multiple album releases and awards, the group have also sang for the Queen, Prince Charles and Camilla.

They have also played at many other big events including Glastonbury and Cambridge Folk Festival, as well as appearing in documentaries and even an advert for Youngs fish! On your visit to Cornwall why not look them up and get a taste of true Cornish folk music?.

You can find the Fisherman’s Friends regularly performing in Port Isaac, and they have many other performances booked throughout the year which you can view by visiting their website www.thefishermansfriends.com

Seasonal food, fresh off the boat, straight from the farm, foraged this morning The 17th-century Port Gaverne Hotel overlooks a secluded cove on North Cornwall’s dramatic coast, 5 minutes’ walk from Port Isaac. We’ve picked up multiple awards for our food & rooms and have a stunning beach bar moments from the water: Pilchards Cafe. Open for lunch & dinner, you can snack at the bar, eat modern a la carte in the restaurant or dine al fresco on produce raised & landed right here on our doorstep.

The Port Gaverne Hotel, Port Gaverne, Port Isaac, Cornwall PL29 3SQ 01208 880 244 | www.portgavernehotel.co.uk | eat@portgavernehotel.co.uk

FIVE OF OUR FAVOURITE

Port Isaac and Polzeath and the surrounding area are full to the brim with things to see and places to explore. Take a look at some of the following ideas that you might want to fit in on your visit.

Explore the history of Port Isaac

As you wander through our little village, you’ll find many 18th century buildings and cottages, many of which are now listed as of architectural or historic importance. Some played host to many fisherman's homes and unloading destinations when Port Isaac was a busy working harbour.

Take a surfing lesson There’s no better place than Cornwall to get in the sea and learn to surf! Polzeath is the ideal beach for surfing, and you’ll find a handful of surf schools based at Polzeath who are on hand to keep you safe as well as making sure you have fun!

RIDE THE Camel Trail Visit St Enodoc Church

Situated amongst sand dunes and looking out to Daymer Bay, St Enodoc’s Church is steeped in history and was once completely buried by sand! The church dates back to the 12th century, and was loved by famous poet John Betjeman, who happens to be buried here.

The perfect thing to do if you’ve travelled with bicycles, this 18 mile long trail follows a disused railway line from Bodmin to Padstow. Level ground for most of the route means it’s great for those with little legs, and you can cycle or walk as much of the route as you like. It’s dog friendly too!

Walk from Port Isaac to Port Gaverne

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Image by Martin Bodman

This lovely circular route is perfect for an afternoon stroll and a cream tea stop afterwards. Beginning in Port Isaac, you’ll make your way through the valley behind Port Gaverne and follow the coast path back to Port Isaac. Don’t miss the fantastic views along the way!

Escape Cornish cottages set on an idyllic farm

Discover Our farm shop, restaurant and pick your own fruit

For Holidays, for Days Out At Trevathan Farm your holiday cottage is just three miles from the sea and a tractor ride from our ‘Strawberry Farm’ where you can enjoy homemade cake, pick your own strawberries and relax as the kids explore the park.

01208 880164

www.trevathanfarm.com St Endellion, nr Port Isaac PL29 3TT

www.cornishtipiholidays.co.uk near Port Isaac

01208 880781

No visit to Cornwall is complete without at least one visit to the beach and Polzeath is the most idyllic place to spend a day by the sea.

With its large stretch of golden sand, perfect surfing waves and nearby facilities, you can easily pass the day away and get a true taste of the Cornish seaside here.

Whether you bring a picnic and soak up the sun on your towel, dine in one of our restaurants while sipping on a glass of wine or spend the day in the sea learning to surf with the help of highly skilled surf schools, there is something for everybody at Polzeath Beach.

There is good disabled access and excellent facilities, lifeguards on duty in high season*, and ample parking and it is clear to see why it was awarded a Blue Flag Award in 2017. * Lifeguards are on duty Easter bank holiday, weekends during April, daily from 5th May to 30th September and weekends during October.

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Café and Bed & Breakfast Port Isaac Harbourside Café with an amazing outdoor terrace overlooking the port, open from 9am (in season, 11am in off-season) – 9pm, serving breakfast lunch & dinner The bed and breakfast has seven modern bedrooms with years of history, exposed beams and stonework, (and the odd ghost or 2!)

Harbour Front, Port Isaac, PL29 3RH | 01208 880264 | www.portisaachotel.com

SURF SHOP

POLZEATH BEACH

SURFBOARDS - WETSUITS - CLOTHING - HARDWARE

CALL - 01208 863625 - @TJSSURFSHOP

Exp lore the

OPEN BLUE

The coastline around Port Isaac Bay is stunning, and without doubt the best view of it is found when looking back from the water.

It’s a view that few visitors enjoy however, save for those who join Cornish Rock Tors for a guided sea kayak, stand-up paddleboard or coasteering trip. Operating from their base in the National Trust cellars above the beach in Port Gaverne, Cornish Rock Tors have been offering lessons, guided trips

and equipment hire to help people enjoy the best of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for over ten years.

so many different routes, features, and ways to enjoy this natural playground, whatever the weather”.

“There’s so much to explore along this stretch of coast” says Managing Director Ben Spicer, “Lots of people come out with us every year and never do the same thing twice, as we have

To find out how you can get in the water with Cornish Rock Tors, contact www.cornishrocktors.com The Old Fish Cellar, Port Gaverne 07791 534884

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Cornish Produce. World Flavours.

Daily Menus.

Pilchards is a new beach cafe serving small plates, sharing platters, big feasts and cocktails. At high tide, the sea’s only a few yards away from the tables on the front decking. The perfect spot to while away an afternoon. Or come inside for shelter from the sun. All are welcome at Pilchards – from sandy kids and thirsty ramblers to diners in search of new tastes.

Port Gaverne, Port Isaac, Cornwall PL29 3SQ | 01208 880 891 portgavernehotel.co.uk/restaurant/pilchards-cafe | relax@pilchardsatportgaverne.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

You can now stay in the cottage that was used as Doc Martin's surgery! For more information visit www.docmartinhouse.co.uk

On the

Big screen Port Isaac has been the setting for some big productions that have used it’s Cornish charm over the years

BELOW The house used as Doc Martin's surgery

The best known programme that has used Port Isaac as its setting is probably ITV’s Doc Martin. Starring Martin Clunes, it has been filmed in Port Isaac ever since the first series in 2004.

The programme sees Dr Martin Ellingham (or ‘Doc Martin’ as he is known to his Cornish patients) travel to the fictional Cornish village of Port Wenn from London after he develops a fear of blood and can no longer practice surgery. He is famously grumpy and isn’t one for socialising, which always causes a stir in the close knit village community!

As well as Port Isaac, filming also took place in nearby villages Port Quin and Port Gaverne as well as in Port Isaac. Scenes were also shot in other parts of Cornwall while most of the interior action took place in a converted barn studio on a nearby farm.

Port Isaac has also been used as a setting for Poldark and the film Saving Grace, and will no doubt be used in the future for many more world class productions!

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DENNIS KNIGHT Fish Merchant Proprietor: J T Collins

Suppliers of quality fresh Cornish seafood all year round The Fish Cellars, 1 Fore St, Port Isaac

01208 880498 (24 hour answering service) Mobile: 07969555182

The Peapod is a charming shop at the top of the village in Port Isaac, specialising in sourcing items that ladies will love for their homes or themselves. We stock Capri clothing along with a range of Italian linen items. Silver and costume jewellery together with leather and fashion handbags and purses.

Open daily throughout the summer & autumn Follow us on Facebook

01208 881197

26 New Road, Port Isaac, PL29 3SB peapod2@btconnect.com

Providing family holidays in Polzeath since 1945 Facilities include Bar & caFĂŠ | Play area launderette | Free Wi-Fi 01208 862391 www.valleycaravanpark.co.uk

more than a

campsite For over 70 years, since 1945, The Valley has welcomed generations of families to Polzeath.

The park lies on a beautiful and unique piece of greenbelt and marshland that leads to the sea. Still operated by the same Cornish family, The Valley is a mustbook destination with the future of the surrounding landscape firmly in mind.

Being a host to so many species of wildlife on this wonderful combination of marsh, wetland, forest, estuary and coast has an importance that is not lost on the Taylor family. This is why they continue to work to conserve and preserve local wildlife and species of flora and fauna whilst encouraging their guests to do so as well via their business membership with Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

Bug hotels, animal feeders and recycling facilities help guests stay responsible and have a positive impact on their surroundings, whilst an abundance of free roaming ducks, geese, moorhens, rabbits and many others mean that they can get close to nature. The park received a Green Partner Award from TripAdvisor for their work in this area.

In recent years, the park has worked extensively to create and improve upon habitats to help boost the wildlife population; introducing more nature friendly land management such as laid hedging, log piles and hybrid pitches with gravel that allows rain water to soak away unlike traditional concrete. Beekeeping is in practice on the park on a specially set aside piece of land complete with wildflowers and untouched hedgerows which also boosts the local population of bumblebees.

With the ever changing surroundings, one thing is for certain - The Valley will continue to act as custodians for this beautiful stretch of Polzeath, preserving all those memories for generations who have been and generations to come.

THE VALLEY POLZEATH www.valleycaravanpark.co.uk 01208 862391 info@valleycaravanpark.co.uk DISCOVER PORT ISAAC & POLZEATH 17

Homeleigh Farm lies on the edge of Chapel Amble – a picturesque village, with its Cornish stone and rendered cottages.

Contemporary art gallery exhibiting many different fine arts and crafts

Fully Equipped Kitchens | Central Heating Washing & Drying Facilities | Free WiFi

Working studio of Victoria Mead

Chapel Amble, Wadebridge PL27 6EU

Different one man shows all year

homeleigh@eclipse.co.uk www.homeleighfarm.co.uk

www.wave7gallery.co.uk 01208 880605 or 07773 822667 Nr Trelights, Port Isaac PL29 3TW

01208 812411

Workshops throughout the year in many different mediums.

GeorGe's surf school Private Surf Lessons - Polzeath

coNTAcT us ToDAY To BooK A lessoN or for More INforMATIoN

georgessurfschool.com | info@georgessurfschool.com | 01208 479006

Surfing with a

DIFFERENCE

Polzeath beach is extremely popular with surfers, and for a good reason!

Its west-facing aspect means it picks up most swells, making it one of the most consistent surfing spots in North Cornwall. With a beautiful backdrop, its flat bathymetry produces mellow, intermediate-friendly faces and long, gentle, rolling white-water waves that are perfect for learning to surf.

George’s Surf School is a Surfing England and ISA Centre of Excellence based in Polzeath, providing bespoke private surf lessons for individuals and small or family groups. Combining their coaching experience with a carefully structured methodology, they deliver specialist beginner, improver, longboard and shortboard coaching programmes.

These take into account your surfing goals and the different motivations of men, women and children to make sure each water session is fun and fulfilling.

With private coaching you have a level of close interaction with an instructor where you have the time and space to ask all the questions you need. This enables you to learn faster, while giving you the skills and confidence to practice autonomously and safely.

All of their lessons are run by a team of passionate, enthusiastic and professional instructors who will meet you before the lesson, provide you with the right equipment and guide you into the best waves for your abilities. Beginners start in waist-depth water, and lessons combine elements of beach and ocean safety information with instruction to enable you to learn how to catch waves, handle your board, feel confident and stay safe in the ocean.

For experienced surfers, our progression programme coupled with video coaching is a fantastic way to boost your wave count and become more dynamic and stylish on the wave face.

GEORGES SURF SCHOOL www.georgessurfschool.com 01208 479006 info@georgessurfschool.com DISCOVER PORT ISAAC & POLZEATH 19

INDEPENDENT& UNIQUE One of the charms of both Port Isaac and Polzeath is the fact that they boast an array of wonderful small, yet well established stand alone businesses. Here are some of our favourites.

Kiln StuDio

Find beautifully hand painted bone china items and more at the family run Kiln Studio. Designer and artist Sue Pullin, who has more than 25 years experience in the industry, can be found working here, using kilns to produce her unique work. Why not take something home for you to remember your visit ?

01208 880578 | www.kilnstudio.com No 3 Middle Street, Port Isaac PL29 3RH

Wadebridge Wines

Whether you are looking for a bottle to drink over dinner or a big selection for a special event, Wadebridge Wines have ample choice.

Visit the family run store and find wines from around the world, as well as whisky, gin and much more. www.wadebridgewines.co.uk | 01208 812692 Eddystone Road, Wadebridge PL27 7AL

Dennis Knight FISH MERCHANT

Nothing says Cornwall like delicious fresh Cornish fish. Cook up a fish barbeque on the beach or rustle up a fish curry at home, and be sure to visit Dennis Knight Fish Merchant for your fresh fish supply!

01208 880498 1 Fore St, Port Isaac PL29 3RB

The Pea Pod

You’ll find a wide range of stylish homeware at The Pea Pod, which is just perfect if you are looking to freshen up your home decor. There is also a range of jewellery and fashionable items that make the perfect gift for a loved one, or maybe just for you!

01208 880223 26 New Rd, Port Isaac PL29 3SB

Tj’s Surf Shop

Located on Polzeath beach, TJ’s surf shop has been around since the 1980s and is one of Cornwall’s original surf shops. There’s a big selection of surf and beachwear available, as well as surfboards for sale. After a day out on the water, why not stop at their cafe for a bite to eat?

01208 862364 | www.tjssurfshop.co.uk Polzeath Beach, Polzeath 20 DISCOVER PORT ISAAC & POLZEATH

FOOD WITH A VIEW If you are visiting us here in Polzeath, then a visit to The Waterfront is an absolute must, no matter what time of year you are visiting!

With panoramic views of Polzeath beach and Pentire Point, there is no better place to come and relax and enjoy Cornwall.

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner all year round, you can indulge in some delicious dishes which celebrate Cornwall and places further afield. With an extensive menu on offer there is something to satisfy all tastes, and they also host a a range of events throughout the year meaning you can be entertained while you dine too!

You can have your pick of location when dining, from the chilled rooftop bar to the light and airy

conservatory. An all weather location, if the sun is shining you can get a breath of sea air while dining al fresco on the terrace, or if the rain is pouring, come and cosy up inside while you enjoy a hot meal.

If you are tying the knot or have something to celebrate, the Waterfront can also be hired and is a unique and special location to create those special memories which will last forever.

WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL Beach Road, Polzeath PL27 6SP www.waterfrontpolzeath.co.uk 01208 869655

Relaxed dining overlooking Polzeath Beach... from surf’s up to sunset!

Breakfasts, coffees, lunches & dinners 9am to 11pm

01208 869655 Beach Road, Polzeath PL27 6SP bookings@waterfrontpolzeath.co.uk www.waterfrontpolzeath.co.uk

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FIVE OF OUR FAVOURITE

PLACES TO EAT

Cornwall is renowned for its fresh and local food and drink, and you’ll be spoiled for choice wherever you choose to go. Here are some of our favourite places in Port Isaac and Polzeath.

The Longcross HOTEL

With stunning views of the coast, enjoy lunch and dinner in a relaxed atmosphere at The Longcross Hotel. There are plenty of delicious dishes to choose from, including some fish specials. You can also enjoy a Cornish cream tea, both sweet and savoury!

01208 880243 | www.longcrosshotel.co.uk

Port Gaverne Hotel You’ll find daily seafood specials and all Cornish produce at this wonderful 17th-century former coaching inn, just a 5 minute stroll round the headland from Port Isaac. Voted Cornwall’s top gastropub in 2017 and national Pub and Bar Award county winner for 3 years running, it offers fine dining without pretence.

01208 880244 | www.portgavernehotel.co.uk

Trevathan Farm shop Open 7 days a week, you can enjoy some delicious food at Trevathan Farm whether it’s a home cooked breakfast, hearty lunch or a tempting slice of cake. If you are visiting with little ones, they can play in the play area and pets corner while you relax in the family run restaurant.

01208 880248 www.trevathanfarm.com

Pilchards Cafe at Port Gaverne At high tide, the outdoor tables at Pilchards are only a few metres from the sea. Tuck in to octopus, mussels, small plates and sharing platters from an inventive and exciting menu that changes daily. There’s also a great bar serving refreshing cocktails, 20 different types of gin and local ales aplenty.

01208 880891 | www.portgavernehotel.co.uk 22 DISCOVER DISCOVER PORT PORTISAAC ISAAC && POLZEATH POLZEATH

The Slipway Serving traditional cornish cream teas and a range of scones, cakes and homemade sandwiches, The Slipway is the ideal place to watch the world go by. Relax on the outdoor terrace and enjoy some local seafood along with a great view overlooking the port, while sipping on a Cornish Cider. Heaven!

01208 880264 | www.portisaachotel.com

Dog friendly Boutique Hotel, Restaurant and Gardens Bar and Gardens open from 10am Lunches from 12 noon, afternoon Cream Teas & Dinner from 6pm

In summer, sit outside in fresh Cornish sea air and soak up the sunshine with a glass of something cold We have a large free car park and dogs are welcome in the bar, most bedrooms and all outside areas Tel: 01208 880243 info@longcrosshotel.co.uk Trelights, Port Isaac PL29 3TF

٠ Conservatory restaurant and outside decked areas with stunning panoramic views over some 20 miles of coastline ٠ Delicious and exciting dishes using fresh local ingredients ٠ Fabulous sunsets ٠ Friendly and attentive staff ٠ 4 acres of gardens

ROOMS, VILLAS & APARTMENTS

RESTAURANTS

COWSHED SPA

Located in Trebetherick, with views across the stunning Camel Estuary and Atlantic Ocean, cl St Moritz is the destination for a relaxing holiday, delicious meal and indulgent spa day.

Trebetherick, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 6SD Call 01208 862 242 Hotel Rooms | Apartments | Villas | Restaurants | Cowshed spa

stmoritzhotel.co.uk