DISCOVER
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Handpicked holiday cottages throughout the West Country
ISSUE 06 | APRIL 2016
FILM AND TV LOCATIONS ACROSS THE SOUTH WEST
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Packed with the finest handpicked cottages for the perfect holiday
Inside this Issue
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THINGS TO ENJOY ACROSS CORNWALL, DEVON, DORSET AND SOMERSET HH6 Cover FINAL.indd 1
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MANAGING DIRECTOR
Moray Bowater EDITOR
Jackie Dawes jackie.dawes@helpfulholidays.co.uk Telephone: 01647 434360 ADVERTISING
Adrian Innocent Media Sales and Client Manager adrian.innocent@helpfulholidays.co.uk Telephone: 01647 434360 PUBLISHER
Andy Forster andy@enginehousemedia.co.uk Telephone: 01326 574842 Mobile: 07711 160590
CONTRIBUTORS Nadia Pendleton Christine Phillips Felix Rowe Steve Mathews Chloe Searle Joanne Stinton Hannah Tapping
COVER IMAGE Aidan Turner on the film set of Poldark
Welcome The Helpful Holidays team
The days are getting longer, flowers are blooming and the sound of birdsong has returned to our gardens - spring really is in the air! With that in mind, our latest issue of DISCOVER is packed full of ideas, inspiration and wonderful places to stay to make the most of the season. Whether it’s a seaside escape or a moorland mansion, a cosy cottage or an elegant apartment, we’ve over 600 dream holiday homes to choose from. In this issue we go on location (pages 10-17), exploring the settings for films and TV series across the region. You’ll be surprised how many much-loved places have starred on our screens. We also have days out aplenty: a guide to golf courses across the region (pages 41-43), dairy delights with a local ice cream (pages 50-51) and Helpful Holidays’ exciting new walking festival which takes place across West Cornwall from 14th to 16th June (page 68). We catch up with a couple of the Helpful Holidays team (pages 66-67) who let us in on their favourite places to stay and, for those looking to travel further afield, we speak to Fiona Brijnath of Dartmoor-based Far Frontiers Travel on page 18. With places to shop, the latest news and events galore, let us do the legwork for you while you put your feet up and plan your next adventure.
DISCOVER is published for Helpful Holidays by ENGINE HOUSE MEDIA LTD Holbrook, The Moors, Porthleven, Cornwall TR13 9JX
Janadcthke iHeelpful Holidays team
www.enginehousemedia.co.uk
HOME
Engine House Media Ltd is a new multi-platform media business with a passion for everything South West. Visit www.enginehousemedia.co.uk to find out more. Our mission is to create media opportunities that marry together consumers with the fabulous businesses across the South West. 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. It’s our role to generate response for your business so, for more information, please contact Andy Forster on 07711 160590 or email on andy@enginehousemedia.co.uk. © All rights reserved. Material may not be re-produced without the permission of Helpful Holidays. While Helpful Holidays 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. The opinions expressed or advice given in the publication are the views of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Helpful Holidays or Engine House Media Ltd. It is suggested that further advice is taken over any actions resulting from reading any part of this magazine.
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Mill Street, Chagford, Devon TQ13 8AW t: 01647 434360 e: help@helpfulholidays.co.uk w: www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
www.helpfulholidays.co.uk Keep in touch with activities by following Helpful Holidays on Twitter (@helpfulholidays) and by joining our Facebook page (/helpfulholidays).
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r Cove re u t Fea S E PAG- 17 10
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Inside
DISCOVER 6 SPECIAL DESTINATION
41 A HOLE IN ONE
8 AND IN OTHER NEWS
44 SPECIAL DESTINATION
Discover the beautiful bay of Porthcurno, in west Cornwall
Improve your game on our selection of beautiful courses
News, stories and updates from Helpful Holidays
10 ON LOCATION
A riverside escape: the twin villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo
47 THE SHARPHAM TRUST
Showcasing the outstanding natural beauty that makes the West Country a great filming location
Reconnect with yourself and nature on the beautiful Sharpham estate
18 FAR FRONTIERS TRAVEL
50 MELT IN THE MOUTH
22 HOLIDAY COTTAGES
52 SAFE AND SOUND
Dream destinations with personal service
Take your tastebuds on a journey full of flavour
Helpful Holidays has the ideal cottage for your perfect escape
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00 80
A look at managing risk on holiday
58
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s e g a t t o c y a d i l o h d e Handpickout the West Country through
54 HOME OWNER INTERVIEW
Three generations come together to share their love of Cornwall
56 ESSENTIAL ADVICE
50
47
Advice on choosing the correct buy-to-let mortgage for your holiday home
58 WHAT’S ON AT TREBAH
Hidden among the champion trees at Trebah Gardens we find a great new amphitheatre
62 SHOPPING
West Country shopping at its finest in Salcombe and Dulverton
66 FAVOURITE PLACES
Two of the team share their favourite beauty spots in Somerset and Cornwall
68 WALK WEST CORNWALL
41
A brand new and exciting walking festival from the Helpful Holidays team
72 EVENTS DIARY
What’s on in the West Country from May to October
78 A GOOD BOOK
Curl up with our choice of the best on the bookshelf
80 FIONA BRIJNATH Q&A
6
Favourite destinations, dining and days out
82 WEST COUNTRY MUSINGS
TV star Caroline Quentin on her love of the West Country
82
68
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SPECIAL DESTINATION PORTHCURNO A beautiful bay in west Cornwall, with even more to it than meets the eye. Porthcurno, from the Cornish for ‘the port of Cornwall’, is an arresting, sand-lined cove in the county’s far west, a little further round the coast from Penzance. A stunningly beautiful spot, two noted associations mark Porthcurno out as being of particular significance. The first is all about connections. This seemingly remote cove was once the very epicentre of global communications, where the huge telegraph cables that stretched to the far corners of the empire came ashore. Today, you can still visit the Telegraph Museum and go inside the tunnels built to protect
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the communications equipment from aerial bombardment in WWII – a fantastic family day out. The second is the Minack Theatre, a true wonder of the modern world, the Mecca of open-air theatre. Resembling the ruin of an ancient Roman amphitheatre carved out of the cliff-edge, here you can enjoy performances of everything from Shakespeare to the Fisherman’s Friends. Besides the golden sand of the bay, Porthcurno is also the perfect introduction to the South West Coast Path, to explore the miles of fantastic coastline.
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GOING FOR GOLD AT THE BRITISH TRAVEL AWARDS The Helpful Holidays team are delighted to add two more awards to the trophy cabinet, following a successful night at the British Travel Awards 2015. We were honoured to take home Gold in the Feefo ‘Excellence in Customer Service Award’ for small/medium holiday companies at the prestigious event. And, for the fifth year in a row, Helpful Holidays won an award in the ‘Best Medium Cottage/Self Catering Booking (UK properties)’ category. Helpful Holidays Managing Director, Moray Bowater, says: “We’re proud and flattered to have won and immensely grateful to all those who took the trouble to vote for us.” Lorraine Barnes Burton, of the British Travel Awards, adds: “More than a quarter of a million consumers voted this year… it’s the largest awards programme in the UK and to win is a clear statement that companies are providing excellence in travel to the discerning consumer.” Moray continues: “Ultimately, trust is the currency that really counts and we’re delighted to have earned that from our customers over the last 30 years.” Congratulations to all the team, and thanks to everyone who voted for us or works hard to make Helpful Holidays a success, from home owners to those who visit our cottages. But, never content to rest on our laurels, here’s to a fantastic 2016!
CHEERING FOR CHARITIES Over the last few months, Editor of Helpful Holidays’ DISCOVER, Jackie DISCOVER Dawes, has donned her running shoes, busily preparing for the London Marathon this April. Jackie will be representing Team Starfish in aid of the Family Holiday Association, a ‘national charity dedicated to providing British seaside breaks and day trips for families struggling with some of the toughest challenges life can bring.’ “I’m over the moon to be part of this team preparing to run the 2016 London Marathon”, says Jackie. “This will be my first marathon and possibly my last!” But, as Jackie explains, it’s never too late to take up running: “I started running less than three years ago. I wanted to be able to keep up with my children, and keep fit. A friend had started running with Okehampton Running Club, so I decided to give it a go.” If you’d like to help Jackie support this worthwhile cause, without breaking a sweat, please visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JackieDawes. Blacks, our fabulous local deli (pictured above), have already pledged some of their delicious hampers for her fundraising efforts. A little slower but no less intrepid Peter Charles, owner of Trevarna (R84) in Cawsand, who is walking 1,500 miles from Buckinghamshire to Spain and aims to arrive in October. Seventy year old Peter, who suffers from the disease, has set a target of £250,000 for Parkinson’s UK. Join us in supporting Peter’s Parkinson’s Pilgrimage by visiting www.parkinsonsahw.org.uk/peterspilgrimage.
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FARMS FOR CITY CHILDREN Every year, Helpful Holidays supports a different charity, trying our best to raise awareness and funds for a special cause close to our own hearts. Of course, we get to have a bit of fun in the process, not least during our annual summer cricket match here in Chagford. In 2015, we chose Farms for City Children (FFCC), a truly inspirational foundation that offers opportunities for inner city children to experience the great British countryside. It was wonderful meeting the team and discovering more about the fantastic work they all carry out. We were pleased to present a cheque to CEO,
Tessa Stone, and House Manager, Katherine Knight, for £14,237. Tessa says: “Being Helpful Holidays’ charity of the year in 2015 has been the most wonderful opportunity for Farms for City Children. Very importantly too, they have been great fun to be involved with – the fundraising cricket match was a real highlight of the year, and not just because Helpful Holidays won on the last ball of the match! We would like to say a huge thanks to the whole team, and their many customers who also donated and got involved, for their extremely generous support.”
Children from St Stephen’s Primary, Newham
HELPFUL HOLIDAYS’ NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHES
WALKING CORNWALL’S STUNNING COASTLINE Helpful Holidays is delighted to introduce a brand new festival for 2016, Walk West Cornwall. Dust off your boots, breathe the clear air and discover an amazing landscape.
We’re delighted to introduce our new look website, which suits any type of device. Just like our old site, it’s very easy to use, but we’ve created more special features to help you find the West Country regions and holiday cottages which are perfect for you. Pictures are bigger than ever and descriptions of the holiday homes are more clearly laid out, with useful floor plans. You can search for collections of cottages, like those close to gardens to visit or good pubs and restaurants, and read our blogs about all things West Country. We’ll be adding more features soon and if you have any comments or suggestions about the new website, we’d love to hear from you. Visit www.helpfulholidays.co.uk to check it out.
Cornwall is one of the most popular holiday destinations across the UK and Europe. Steeped in history, with breathtaking beaches and clifftops, the scenery and landscapes offer something for everyone. A variety of walks have been organised as part of this inaugural festival to give you an opportunity to explore all of this historic landscape. Whatever your fitness levels, there’s a walk for you. How about a guided walk around the historic streets of Penzance or Helston? Perhaps a walk to see Poldark landmarks around Geevor Tin Mine? Or if an art lover, why not sign up for the guided walk around the haunts of famous artists in Lamorna Cove? Another popular walk is sure to be Foraging for Food, at the end of which you’ll cook your dinner with your findings, together with the other walkers - all part of the fun! Some walks are even free! Turn to page 68 to read more…
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n o i t a c o L n O IN THE SOUTH WEST Look familiar? As we discover, the South West has served as the backdrop for many films and epic dramas.
Rolling countryside, gentle pastoral landscapes, dramatic seascapes and a plethora of stately homes, thatched cottages and quaint villages across the four counties of Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall conjure emotion and a sense of time and place that
has inspired artists, writers and poets through the ages. Today it draws film and television directors too. Rugged moorland, ancient castles and cathedral spires provide the impressive backdrops to some of our favourite period dramas and epic films.
Tin mines on the Botallack coast
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Botallack End of England
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As selfies of Aidan Turner with co-stars Heida Reed and Eleanor Tomlinson on a windswept ‘set’ of Bodmin Moor, taken while filming the second series of Poldark, hit the media, we take a look at the South West locations making appearances on big and small screens across the nation.
After seven series of the TV drama Doc Martin, Port Isaac is firmly on the locations list. The show is set in the fictional seaside village of Portwenn. Tourists flock to walk the steep streets of this little fishing port to see the schoolhouse, surgery and, of course, Doc’s cottage. The internal shots are filmed in a local converted barn. Directors make ingenious use of
real locations for the big screen as well. James Ivory, of Merchant Ivory, chose sets in both Somerset and Devon to film Kazuo Ishiguro’s prizewinning novel, The Remains of the Day, starring Anthony Hopkins, James Fox and Emma Thompson. The fictitious ‘Darlington Hall’ is a conflation of several houses, most recognisable of which is the exterior of Dyrham Park, about six miles north of Bath, Somerset, on the A46. It was built between 1692 and 1704 by William III’s Secretary of State, William Blathwayt, on the site of a
Image courtesy of: ©National Trust / Arnhel de Serra
So great is Poldark’s popularity that you can now book your own Poldark tour that will take you to the Georgian harbour of Charlestown, smugglers’ coves and old mines and invites you
to ride alongside the wild ponies of the moors. Scything hay bare-chested is an optional extra.
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Port Isaac North Cornwall
Image courtesy of: Adam Gibbard
HARRY: N328
Tudor manor house. It’s a National Trust property, open to the public from April through October, except Thursdays and Fridays. Even a fleeting moment in a film will be chosen carefully to add character and drama. In the final scene of The Remains of the Day you can see the Blue Staircase, the Library, Music Room and the domed ceiling of Powderham Castle, a medieval pile dating from 1390, set in a deer park, now the home of Lord and Lady Courtenay. The house is open to the public from May to October.
ABOVE FROM LEFT Actor Aidan Turner as Poldark Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza
BODMIN MOOR
Sleeping seven, this cottage is within the grounds of a lovely, listed 17th century manor in Blisland used in the making of films and it’s part of a barn converted into three cottages called, quirkily, Tom, Dick and Harry. Harry is the ‘near perfect’ large, end cottage. With plenty of room, this charming holiday home won a commendation from the Cornish Buildings Group.
CASTLE VIEW: P72 At the end of a no-through road, with sensational views out to sea and along the stunning coastline, this is an impressive, fully detached modernist home. Castle View sleeps eight, with some of the best views you can get in the county and the benefit of a big, tree-shaded and sheltered garden at the front.
Port Isaac
PORT ISAAC CARTHORSE COTTAGE: B81
BELOW FROM LEFT Dyrham Park Powderham Castle Charlestown Harbour
NEAR POWDERHAM
Carthorse Cottage sits on a 105-acre farm in Luton, a quaint barn conversion that comfortably sleeps ten with an indoor heated swimming pool. The friendly owners are proud that wildlife flourishes on their tranquil land, which is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Neolithic burial sites and rare and varied wildlife make this retreat more than just a holiday home.
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Image courtesy of: ©National Trust / Chris Lacey
The Hit List Cornwall: About Time Alice In Wonderland Die Another Day
Image courtesy of: Stephen Mathews
Dracula (1979) The Eagle Has Landed Knights of the Round Table Murder Ahoy Scott of the Antarctic Straw Dogs The Thief of Bagdad The Three Musketeers (1993) Treasure Island (1950)
Image courtesy of: ©National Trust / Andrew Butler
Twelfth Night World War Z
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The latest Hollywood reinterpretation of the Thomas Hardy classic Far from the Madding Crowd with Carey Mulligan as heroine Bathsheba Everdene was filmed in Hardy’s ‘Wessex’, a slightly fictionalised Dorset, with various locations including Beaminster and Sherborne.
Earl and Duchess of Sandwich in Beaminster, Dorset. The market town square is Half Moon Street in Sherborne, alongside Sherborne Abbey where Bathsheba arrives to sell her grain at the Corn Exchange. The building’s interior is the woodpanelled Great Hall of Forde Abbey, near Chard in Somerset.
The cliffs over which Gabriel Oak’s sheep are driven by the out-of-control young sheepdog are at Eype, near Bridport. The farmhouse Bathsheba inherits is Mapperton House, home of the
Mapperton House was also seen as the home of the Westons in Douglas McGrath’s 1996 film of Jane Austen’s Emma, with Gwyneth Paltrow. Ang Lee’s film of the Jane Austen novel Sense and Sensibility, which
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BDeaormset inster
Image courtesy of: ©National Trust / Comissioned
FIDDLESTICKS COTTAGE: H13
scooped Emma Thompson an Oscar, was set in Montacute House, Yeovil, Somerset. Mrs Dashwood and her daughters leave ‘Norland’, aka Saltram House, a George II house set in a landscaped park at Plympton, Devon. Wells Cathedral can be seen in Shekhar Kapur’s Elizabeth, The Golden Age, with Cate Blanchett, and Jack the Giant Slayer, though it was hidden in Edgar Wright’s Hot Fuzz, digitally removed from the skyline to make the tiny city of Wells look like a village.
The Saloon at Saltram House Oriel window at Montacute House Chapman’s Pool, Purbeck, Dorset Shell-headed niches at Montacute House BELOW Saltram House
BEAMINSTER GINGERBREAD HOUSE: E66 The Gingerbread House, sleeping six, is a thatched, hexagonal, Grade II listed fairy cottage on the edge of woods – be careful or you might become spellbound by its sheer charm. About three miles from Ilminster, the cottage sits within a great country estate, where you can enjoy walking through the estate’s park and woodlands.
ILMINSTER, NEAR CHARD PROVIDENCE: L273 In the heart of Turnchapel, a row back from the water’s edge, sits Providence Cottage, for six, one of the village’s oldest homes. There’s water access beside the cottage with a pebbly foreshore and slipway for paddling and dinghy launching. This is a delightful cottage in a lovely waterside village with a friendly ‘time-forgotten’ feel.
TURNCHAPEL, NEAR SALTRAM Image courtesy of: ©National Trust / Andrew Butler
Image courtesy of: ©National Trust / John Millar
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Filming ‘Wolf Hall’ at Montacute House
In the lovely town of Beaminster, 50 feet back from a no-through lane, is this pretty, detached, 19th century cottage. Cosy and comfortably furnished, the cottage has room for four, sleeping in two bedrooms. Enjoy lovely wooded valley walks to neighbouring Netherbury, where the original ‘River Cottage’ is located.
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Image courtesy of: ©National Trust
The Hit List
Persuasion, War Horse and Howard’s End are among other classics filmed in the South West, but it’s not just English drama that sets its scene in this part of the world. Despite being set in France, the epic film version of Les Misérables was shot almost entirely in England. Having betrayed his own unbending principles and let Valjean go, Javert plunges into the ‘Seine’ or the very distinctive weir of the River Avon below Pulteney Bridge in the heart of Bath, Somerset. Acclaimed director Tim Burton no doubt spotted the potential for his latest blockbuster, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, filmed at Portholland, while filming Alice in Wonderland at 18th century Antony
Devon: Barry Lyndon Catch Us If You Can Dark Shadows e Edge of Tomorrow: Liv eat Die Rep The French Lieutenant’s Woman Howard’s End I See a Dark Stranger
Isadora Table Knights of The Round th Dea and Life of A Matter Day The of s ain The Rem Revolution Sense and Sensibility Top Secret! War Horse
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h t a B Somerset House, in Cornwall, owned by the National Trust. Of course, there are young alternative films to be seen alongside the classics; in 2008 Portland Harbour was the backdrop to The Boat that Rocked starring Rhys Ifans, Bill Nighy and Nick Frost, about a pirate radio station in the North Sea. Cult surfing in Blue Juice and teen flick Bluer Sky are both filmed in Newquay, Cornwall, not to mention Die Another Day. Then there was a very fleeting visit from Brad Pitt when he spent a day filming on the waters of Lulworth Cove in Dorset for the film World War Z.
WEEK FARM: E100
FAR LEFT Antony House BELOW FROM LEFT Pulteney Bridge Surfing Lulworth Cove
NEAR BATH
Just four miles from the centre of Bath, in beautiful countryside on the edge of the village of Combe Hay and within the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Beauty, is Week Farm. An elegant Georgian manor house set in 98 acres of private grounds and gardens, this home sleeps 18 and is a very special place, perfect for significant gatherings.
FORT PICKLECOMBE: R382 Tucked on the ground floor of the 19th century Fort Picklecombe, this is an apartment for four with terrific sea views, maritime activity and frequent wildlife sightings. Fort Picklecombe was built in 1848 and has now been converted into excellent apartments with stunning 180-degree sea views. Don’t forget your binoculars!
Next time you’re watching a blockbuster movie or series on TV and think ‘I recognise that place’ you’ll probably have seen it on holiday in the South West.
FORT PICKLECOMBE, NEAR ANTONY POLVELLA CLOSE: Q46 Image courtesy of: Tom Young
On the Pentire headland in Newquay, this large detached house sits quietly tucked into a close just 150 yards from the Coast Path that leads to the glorious Fistral Beach. There is ample space to sleep eight and, with all the amenities you could need, the house is certainly a comfy, relaxing family home, convenient for both the beach and town.
Image courtesy of: Adrian Pingstone
Image courtesy of: Diego Delso
NEWQUAY
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s r e i t r n Fa Fro
If you’re looking further afield for your second holiday, Dartmoor-based Far Frontiers Travel shares the same ethos as Helpful Holidays. Director Fiona Brijnath takes things personally.
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LEFT Fiona in Bait Na’aman, Oman ABOVE RIGHT Braving the ice and snow ABOVE Local dancers at the Paro Tsechu, Bhutan ABOVE TOP The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin, Suzdal
Fiona has travelled the world extensively; she decided to set up Far Frontiers Travel in 2000 having worked in the travel industry for other bigger companies. Working for herself enabled her to share her passion, set her own exacting standards and put in all the attention to detail and personalisation that she knew her clients would want. She explains: “I wanted to be able to offer seriously personalised service – treating clients how I would like to be treated myself, having flexibility to help them in ways that bigger companies cannot, going that extra mile.” Like Helpful Holidays, Fiona believes in building relationships with her clients, to understand them and be
able to offer them exactly the sorts of experiences and accommodation that will make them happy. Fiona looks after them from start to finish, puts in the work and always gets back to people when they contact her. She will sometimes get calls from airports or roadsides around the world when things don’t go to plan. She says: “It’s how you deal with the issues that sets you apart”. Her clients know she won’t let them down. “Every client is like gold dust. I will bust a gut to help them, no matter what!” Fiona is someone you can trust. “It’s like calling on a plumber who has worked for you for 20 years; you know they know how to do the job, the ins and outs of your home and
“I wanted to be able to offer seriously personalised service – treating clients how I would like to be treated myself, having flexibility to help them in ways that bigger companies cannot, going that extra mile.” 19 HH6_Far Frontiers Travel_3.00.indd 19
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ABOVE TOP ABOVE Stone Taktsang Forest, Palphug central Monastery, Bolivia Bhutan
RIGHT Happy clients equal a happy Fiona!
how you like things done. I want them to be there when I call them, get back to me when I ask them to and run things on time.” Her clients are mostly retirees who have the time to travel and desire to explore some of the more unusual places in the world. More than 70% of her business is repeat or referral. Testament to how trusted she is, the children of her original clients now go to her to book. Her own travels with her family (two sons aged 12 and ten) mean she is acutely aware of what is plausible, comfortable and fun for all. “Six-hour road trip – the kids will be climbing the walls, so I’d break it up with a camel ride
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or camping under the stars”. Many of her clients have the same expectations as Helpful Holidays. They want high quality accommodation, beautiful scenery to explore and personal service. They might spend a week or so with the extended family in the South West and have a long-haul trip off season. Fiona has built strong partnerships across the world. She now owns Arcturus, a polar expedition company that was set up over 30 years ago in a similar vein to Far Frontiers Travel. This arm of the business offers expeditions that are a world away from everyday life.
“I don’t think I will ever forget my first sight of a polar bear in the wild – enjoying an early morning meal on a piece of floating ice and then swimming nonchalantly away. It’s something that will stay with me forever”. Whatever your journey, Fiona will be able to guide you, advise you and take care of everything, so you can feel the magic of moments just like these. 01837 840640 fiona@farfrontiers.com www.farfrontiers.com
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The West Country’s leading holiday cottage agency As a family-run business based in the heart of Devon, we take pride in the friendly and exceptionally helpful service we offer. We have a straightforward, personable approach with no hidden costs or add-ons and, because we live and work in the region, our local knowledge is second to none.
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If you have a great holiday home or are thinking of buying one, we’d love to hear from you. You’ll be looked after by one of our experienced property managers and will have the friendly support of our entire team. For more information, call us on 01647 434360 or visit our website helpfulholidays.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.
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11/03/2016 12:20
Bridestowe Dartmoor
COTTAGES With an extensive variety of welcoming cottages in wonderful locations across the West Country, catering for any size party and style of break, we have the perfect place for you.
24 NEW HOLIDAY COTTAGES
More outstanding cottages to choose
26 LARGE HOLIDAY HOMES
Perfect holiday homes for those special get-togethers with family and friends
30 POOLS AND TUBS
Take a dip, swim and splash in one of our beautiful holiday homes with pools
32 NEAR SANDY BEACHES Embrace the West Country’s spectacular coastline
34 PLACES TO WALK AND WAG
Share your holiday with your four-legged friend - visit one of our dog-friendly cottages
36 GREEN HOLIDAY COTTAGES
As good for the environment as it is for you go green in luxury
38 CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR
Book a festive family retreat and cosy up for some fun and games
FIND MOR E For fu ONLIN ll E detail won s
Great Bidlake Manor Reference A240 Bridestowe, Dartmoor
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Hittisleigh
ntry Devon’s River Cou
New
K52 J56
J56
HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Here are the latest additions to our collection of the finest retreats across the South West. Discover a new haven to enjoy time and again. K52
K52
Medlake Farm Reference J56 Hittisleigh, Devon’s River Country Tucked away in the rural village of Hittisleigh, on the edge of Dartmoor, is Medlake Farm, a beautiful and secluded farmhouse for six nestled in 22 acres of paddocks, orchards and woodland. It’s a wildlife haven, with the enclosed garden the ideal spot for listening to birdsong – a real antidote to the bustle of the modern world. Beautiful oak-panelling, an Esse range and a long refectory table and benches make the kitchen/dining room a hub for entertainment. Relax in the wonderfully cosy living
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room with large woodburner and beautiful window seats to sit and watch the world go by. Stairs lead up to three generous bedrooms. River fishing, tennis and riding can all be enjoyed locally, while it’s only 30 miles to the golden sands of Bude and Exmouth.
of coastline. The contemporary interior is enhanced by neutral tones, stripped floors and original artwork. The true heart of the house is undoubtedly the large kitchen/ dining room with Aga and French windows leading to the garden.
Reference K52 Abbotsham, North Devon
The three bedrooms include a sumptuous double with sea views and en suite shower-room. From the smaller double, more stairs lead up to a twin bedroom under the eaves.
Abbotsham, a charming village on north Devon’s ‘Heritage Coast’, is the location of this handsome Victorian home for eight, a welcoming refuge from which to explore this beautiful stretch
The garden offers lovely views over fields to the sea and Lundy Island, which you can visit by boat from nearby Bideford. Explore the Coast Path, cliffs at Greencliff and the popular beach at Westward Ho!
1 Seaview
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11/03/2016 12:23
Coverack The Lizard
April Cottage
enjoys wonderful sea views.
Reference T25 Coverack, The Lizard
Upstairs are four bedrooms, including a double with window seat, sea views and en suite.
Coverack is one of Cornwall’s prettiest fishing villages, complete with thatched cottages and interesting places to meet and eat. Buy crab direct from the harbour, before taking a stroll on the beach. Just a stone’s throw from the harbour is April Cottage, a beautifully renovated 18th century cottage for six, ideal for both relaxing and exploring. The interior abounds with traditional charm, from the beams to the inglenook fireplace. The terraced garden, leading to the Coast Path,
There’s plenty to keep all the family amused on The Lizard, including windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving and fishing. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary and a family theme park are both within a short drive too.
Swallow’s Barn Reference L302 Woolston, South Hams Swallow’s Barn is a spacious ‘upside down’ cottage for six, sympathetically converted from barns. Light floods in through large windows, while cool
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coastal colours, polished wood floors and comfortable furnishings make this a calming place to stay. Downstairs, a double and a twin, both with en suite and window seat, look over the Mediterranean-style courtyard. Spiral stairs lead up to an open-plan living/dining room with woodburner. Huge glazed doors open to the south-facing garden, suntrap deck and gently sloping lawn with fruit trees. More spiral stairs lead to the second floor’s huge master bedroom with high ceilings and en suite bathroom. Swallow’s Barn is a relaxed and peaceful retreat after a day exploring the nearby beaches.
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e g r La
HOLIDAY HOMES
If you’re a large family or have lots of friends, our magnificent houses will ensure you holiday in comfort and style. Great Bidlake Manor Reference A240 Bridestowe, Dartmoor On the edge of the Dartmoor National Park, Great Bidlake Manor is an outstanding, Grade II* listed manor house sleeping 13, recently renovated to a luxurious standard in partnership with English Heritage. The surrounding area is a walker’s paradise, with access
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to Dartmoor’s dramatic open moorland just two miles away. The nearby pretty village of Bridestowe has a pub and shop and, with easy access to the A30, Bidlake Manor is ideal for touring Devon and Cornwall.
tree-lined drive, this grand house proudly faces its gardens and land. At the front of the house is a vast courtyard edged with mature planting and specimen trees with a further large terrace surrounded by striking stone walls.
The manor is surrounded by 13½ acres of gardens, woodland and paddocks with uninterrupted views over rolling Devon countryside. Approached via an impressive
This is a fairytale place for all generations and the impressive outdoor space lends itself to games, alfresco dining, relaxing and stargazing. This wonderful
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11/03/2016 12:08
Bridestowe
Dartmoor
home offers masses of space. A big breakfast room, complete with woodburner, lies just off the kitchen. For more formal dining, an impressive dining hall with huge fireplace bearing the family’s ancient coats of arms is the ultimate setting for your evening meal. Reading and relaxing is well catered for with a luxurious library and elegant living room, both with grand open fireplaces. For the
youngsters there’s a cosy TV/DVD room and fun music room, and after a walk on the moor, muddy wellies can be kicked off in the cloakroom. The first floor is reached via two flights of stairs up to a huge landing called the ‘Solar’ with its quiet sitting area and ancient barrel-vaulted ceiling. Leading off from here are five gorgeous bedrooms, all with 6’ zip-linked or twin beds and either en suite bathrooms or shower-rooms.
Completing the fairytale magic of this home is a sixth large bedroom in the Tower, accessed by another staircase. There’s also a simple games room here if you fancy a game of pool or darts. Country Life magazine recently described Great Bidlake Manor as ‘a rural idyll’. It’s a magical place for all kinds of gatherings with bags of room for everyone.
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Molland Exmoor
The Manor House Reference F59 Molland, Exmoor The Manor House lies on the southern edge of Exmoor, surrounded by hedgerows and wooded lanes. This detached house in its courtyard setting has a timeless quality and will transport you to a time of Victorian splendour. Built with stables for a life of hunting, fishing and shooting, the house looks over extensive flower-filled gardens and surrounding farmland. It’s been transformed into a comfortable home for 18. Lovely pieces of furniture adorn each room and decorative pieces are a nod to
the house’s former hunting history. Light streams into the conservatory where you can enjoy breakfast overlooking the garden or simply relax with a book.
most sharing the same lovely views as the living room. A further three bedrooms can be found in the converted stable block, each with their own courtyard access.
The large kitchen is a great place to congregate for tea and cake around the refectory table after a hard day’s exploring. The walk-in pantry, scullery and Aga are a chef’s dream and the addition of a breakfast bar makes this a very social space. You will dine in style at The Manor House - the dining table comfortably seats 18 - before retiring to the elegant living room complete with open fire and delightful garden views. Upstairs, there are six bedrooms,
On a sunny evening you can sit and listen to the birds and the burbling of the stream that runs through the garden. Kids will love the games room, whiling away hours of table tennis, table football and pool. For the adults, there’s private fishing and the house is just 400 yards from a pub. There’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area, with nearby walks on the open moor and some of Devon’s finest surfing beaches an easy drive away.
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F59 | Enquiries and Bookings 01647 434360 | www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
11/03/2016 12:08
M aristow Barton Dartmoor
L80
L80
Maristow Barton L80
Reference Milton Combe, Dartmoor Deep within Lord Roborough’s 6,000 acre estate, Maristow Barton is a large, detached Georgian country house in its own enclosed grounds and most peaceful of settings. Lots of footpaths meander across the estate and the River Tavy, renowned for its excellent birdwatching, is close by. The house also boasts its own jetty should you want to bring a small boat, and for those who like life on two wheels, there are handy barns for bike storage. After a day out on the river you can enjoy a cooling glass in the nearby
village pub. If you fancy venturing further afield, then the vibrant city of Plymouth is only eight miles away with its mix of modern shops, restaurants and aquarium. Making the most of the outdoors is easy with this house as it has an enclosed, sunny, gravelled courtyard and a large lawn – the ideal place to light one of the barbecues and relax on a summer evening with family and friends. There’s also a handy games room for a rainy day. The house, which sleeps 16, is hugely comfortable and decorated in a bright, modern style. A large entrance hall leads to a sunny living/ dining room, kept cosy by an open fire. With large groups it’s great to
have some spread-out space and at Maristow Barton the addition of a TV room gives everyone a chance to chill out. For the culinary minded, the kitchen is an inspiration. The addition of a large range cooker makes catering easy. However, if you prefer, there’s the option of having professional catering too. All the bedrooms are beautifully decorated, from a Japanese inspired master double to a peaceful twin in hues of green. Many of the rooms have slipper baths and deep window seats in which to relax. The standard of luxury and comfort is truly exceptional, the atmosphere relaxing and the surroundings tranquil.
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St Tudy North Cornwall
PoandolsTubs
P91
Whether sunbathing with a cool drink, splashing for fun or clocking up lengths, a pool makes a focal point for any holiday – the place where people gather! We’ve chosen some of our current favourites. P91
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Lamellen House Reference P91 St Tudy, North Cornwall Lamellen House is a strikingly handsome, Grade II listed Victorian house for 15, about two miles from St Tudy and St Kew near Cornwall’s north coast. There are gorgeous, long views over its 18 acres of woodland grounds with a well known collection of camellia, rhododendron, magnolia, conifer and other plants. There’s an entry in the Domesday Book of a house on the site, the present one having been built in
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1849 on the site of its 17th century predecessor. Generations of the same family have lived in and loved this very special house. A modern asset is the indoor heated swimming pool with changing and shower facilities and its very own kitchen. Along one side of the pool, a dining area is shaded by a huge indoor grapevine, while outside is a sheltered paved patio and little lawn with Wendy house. Beyond are a parapet, expansive lawns and an all-weather tennis court. In true splendour of the era, the inner hall houses a fascinating Victorian
collection, including two magnificent tigers guarding the wide sweeping staircase. The two comfy living rooms (one with Beckstein grand piano) exude elegance, with grand, beautiful fireplaces, mullioned windows, leaded lights and lovely garden views. Relax in the billiard room, then head to the dining room, seating all the family, with meals easily cooked in a large family kitchen with Aga. The entrance hall, complete with toys, doubles as a play area. The cellar is the perfect store for wetsuits and wet weather gear.
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11/03/2016 12:25
Sherford
South Hams
Foxglove
Reference L660 Sherford, South Hams About a mile from Sherford, along a flower-filled, hedge-sheltered lane, is Stancombe Manor, set in 21 acres of well-kept gardens and a fenced duck pond – great for children and dogs to explore. The manor is steeped in history, another to receive a mention in the Domesday Book almost a thousand years ago. Needless to say, things have come on a long way since then! These days it’s a retreat for those who enjoy action and adventure, with a tennis court, snooker room, games room, pitch
and putt, children’s play area and wonderful walks through the cider orchards and woodland, all for you to enjoy. But the pièce de résistance is the huge, shared indoor heated swimming pool and the sauna (available at a small extra charge). The cottage, which sleeps up to six, is in one of the handsome barns, which has been converted into living accommodation. Facing south, with a lovely outlook over the attractive gardens, it’s been newly refurbished with comfortable furnishings in a relaxed, New England style. Sherford itself is a sleepy hamlet of pretty cottages, just inland from the long pebble beach of Slapton Sands
and the Coast Path. This part of Devon, in the South Hams, is extremely popular, and it’s not hard to see why, with beautiful rolling countryside edged with a truly stunning coastline. The small market town of Kingsbridge is only five miles away, where you can enjoy an array of watersports, from sailing and paddleboarding to scenic boat trips in and around the creeks of the Kingsbridge estuary. You’ll never tire of beautiful things to see and do in the area. Dartmouth, with one of the loveliest old town centres in Devon, and Salcombe are both within easy reach.
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Padstow
North Cornwall
xxx
P117
L540
s e g a t Cot
NEAR BEACHES Enjoy a holiday in a beautiful home, just a short stroll from the beach.
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Apartment 22 Reference L540 Bigbury-on-Sea, South Hams Bigbury-on-Sea’s big and splendid sandy beach is just 20 yards from this truly excellent development of apartments with its own private leisure club. Apartment 22 sleeps four and has sensational views of the sea to the south and west, and at low tide a huge expanse of smooth washed yellow sand reaching to Burgh Island is revealed. Privately owned and individually furnished, this apartment is wonderfully light and airy with a large, open-plan living area. The two bedrooms are both en suite.
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The leisure club is a wonderful addition where you can swim, work out in the gym or relax in the sauna – all followed by a visit to the smart bar. The island’s jolly pub, The Pilchard, is fun to visit and involves a ride on long-legged sea tractor at high tide.
Mount Pleasant Reference P117 Padstow, North Cornwall This is a handsome, detached house for seven with commanding views over Padstow to the Camel estuary. It’s wonderfully secluded, with a big garden from which thirty yards of passageway lead to the
town centre. Many fine beaches are close by, with a super stretch of sand at St George’s Cove within walking distance. The spacious open-plan ground floor, comprising conservatory/ dining room/kitchen and living room, faces south to the garden. A big utility room provides a useful space for boots, bicycles and surfboards. The three upstairs bedrooms all have stunning views, with one of the doubles leading through to a sunroom for relaxing. This home is just right for those looking for privacy, relaxation and space, combined with the lively buzz of this vibrant Cornish town.
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Bigbury-on-Sea South Hams
16 St Andrews Street Reference R121 Cawsand, South Cornwall Sheltered by a wooded headland and tucked away on one of the small winding streets in the village of Cawsand is this centuries-old cottage for five. Just 50 yards from the beach, much of its original charm remains, complemented by a contemporary twist with stylish decor and furnishings. The pretty stained glass front door leads to an oak-floored living room with woodburner. A few steps up and you’re in a bright kitchen/dining room which has a door to the back garden. Cleverly built under the
stairs is a single bedroom, suitable for a child, and a neat shower-room. You’ll find two further bedrooms, a twin and a double, upstairs. This delightful cottage is a stone’s throw from the hub of the village, which has some delightful shops and pubs, and the beaches are so close you can almost touch them.
Drifters
Reference L297 Bigbury-on-Sea, South Hams This detached single-storey retreat has lovely panoramic views over Bigbury Bay and out to sea. Inside, relaxing seaside colours create a smart, contemporary feel. Sleeping
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seven, the bedrooms are smart and one even has access to its own enclosed terrace. You can relax in either the living/dining room or the light-filled sunroom. The garden catches all-day sun and those stunning sunsets that set the sky on fire. At the end of a day on the beach, wetsuits can be dried and surfboards stored in the useful utility space. This is an excellent spot for windsurfing and Bigbury has its own surf school. The area boasts some fine cliffs for walking and sea-bird watching and a trip to Burgh Island should not be missed. All in all, a superb seaside spot for total relaxation.
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Belstone
Dartmoor
L301 A238
o t s e c Pla
WALK AND WAG
If a holiday just isn’t the same without your four-legged friend, visit one of our dog-friendly cottages, perfect for two and four legs! L301
A238
Lopes Cottage Reference A238 Belstone, Dartmoor Belstone is rural Devon at its finest, a picturesque idyll complete with village green on the edge of the open moor: the ideal base for walking Dartmoor’s highest hills and wildest valleys. Whether here for the pony-trekking, fishing or fabulous walks, there’s no better place to embrace the great outdoors! Tucked away in the village, snug against the hillside and just a few yards from the church and pub, is Lopes Cottage, a newly refurbished, welcoming and homely base for three with beautiful walks from the doorstep. The cosy living room has a huge
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granite-framed inglenook with woodburner and window seats, just right for snuggling up after a day on the moor with your dog. Upstairs are two bedrooms – a pretty single room on one side of the landing; to the other side, accessed through a smart bathroom, is a pretty double under the eaves with a second set of twisting stairs leading down to the living room.
Abbots Ash Reference L301 Aveton Gifford, South Hams With 15th century origins, Abbots Ash is now a smart and spacious home for nine, pairing all modern comforts with big oak beams and slate and oak floors. The house has been beautifully furnished and decorated throughout in a
wonderfully understated style. The heart of the home is the huge open-plan entertaining space with lime-washed walls, partially vaulted ceiling and exposed beams. Before retiring to one of the three bedrooms why not finish the day with a glass of bubbly in the deep roll-top bath? A pretty garden is complemented by the courtyard area planted with lavender and rosemary, giving a Mediterranean feel, and children will love the table football and table tennis in the games barn. Aveton Gifford is an old village beside the River Avon, a peaceful, rural spot surrounded by thatched-cottage villages and just a few minutes’ drive from south Devon’s stunning coastline and beaches.
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11/03/2016 12:28
Penr yn
Cornwall ‘s M ed
A241
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A241
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Peregrine Reference A241 Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor High on the wooded slopes of the Teign valley, you’ll discover this south-facing, colonial-style bungalow, screened by trees and surrounded by its own 2½ acres of informal grounds. On the edge of Fingle Woods, with 30 miles of ancient woodland paths for walking and mountain biking, it’s a world away from the bustle of urban life. The property, sleeping six, has a unique identity thanks to the smart interior styling. The kitchen, complete with Aga, is where modern meets old. The open-plan living/dining room leads to a sunny verandah with views through trees to Mardon Down beyond.
Peregrine is a peaceful place to stay, wonderful for anyone with a passion for wildlife and walking (dogs are restricted during lambing season, so check in advance for affected dates). Moretonhampstead is a friendly, busy town, a gateway to Dartmoor, surrounded by heath-topped hills. It’s perfect for anglers too, with river fishing nearby. Golfers will love the enchanting Bovey Castle, which also serves a fantastic cream tea; plus there’s the popular Miniature Pony Centre nearby.
5 Summercourt Reference S84 Penryn, Cornwall’s Med Penryn is an ancient riverside market town, with shops, restaurants, pubs, galleries,
museums and a nature reserve, on a creek leading to the sailing waters of Carrick Roads and Falmouth Bay. On the edge of the town, yards from the harbour on the banks of the Penryn River, is this three-storey terraced townhouse, sleeping five. The little courtyard garden enclosed by a low stone wall looks over the tidal river where ducks and swans swim at high tide. There are fantastic dog walks along the riverbank towards Mylor and Flushing. Penryn is a great base for exploring Cornwall, with good sandy beaches nearby. Neighbouring Falmouth is a bustling town popular for sailing, with beaches and ferries to Flushing, St Mawes and Truro.
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Black Dog ntry Devon’s River Cou
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G77
HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Enjoy a rural retreat while doing your bit for the planet at one of these stunning eco-homes.
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G77
Whitcombe Cottage Reference Honiton, East Devon G77
If you love animals, you’ve come to the right place. Why not help out on the environmentally-friendly, 135acre farm, home to horses, chickens, Devon cattle and Gotland sheep? Whitcombe Cottage, close to the owners’ charming 17th century farmhouse, has fine views across the Otter Valley, known for trout fishing. This comfortable retreat sleeps four and is thoughtfully designed for wheelchair users. Heating and hot water are supplied by solar panels and a log boiler fed from sustainablymanaged coppiced woodland.
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Soak up beautiful views of the Iron Age fort, Dumpdon Hill, from the open-plan living space. The secluded patio is perfect for barbecues, with steps up to a small garden. Nearby Honiton, a former coaching town, is celebrated for lace-making and antique shops. Walkers will love exploring the surrounding farmland and wooded Blackdown Hills.
Salters
all-year-round spot to escape the world and touch base with nature. Have a wander around the 240acre organic farm, before returning to this beautifully refurbished cottage for four. The open-plan living space is a fine family retreat. Stairs lead up to two bedrooms – a double and a twin – and a smart modern shower-room.
Reference J106 Black Dog, Devon’s River Country
An enclosed, south-facing sitting area makes the most of the aweinspiring views over the hills.
Black Dog is a thatched village midway between Exmoor and Dartmoor, surrounded by beautiful, unspoilt countryside, with miles of footpaths to discover – a great
The historic towns of Crediton and Tiverton are both within a short drive, while you’re roughly halfway between the golden sandy beaches of the north and south coasts.
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15/03/2016 15:28
Edmonton North Cornwall
Figtree Cottage Reference P44 Edmonton, North Cornwall This unique, eco-friendly, upside down cottage for four is wonderfully tucked away, with gorgeous views over the Camel estuary. The cottage has been decorated in an unfussy contemporary style, with two pretty bedrooms and an airy living space flooded with light. Enjoy a cool drink in the wonderful suntrap garden, and you’re free to wander the owners’ kitchen garden to the little wood, amid sheep and cattle grazing in the meadows. This cosy retreat is a great base for
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exploring Cornwall’s north coast and the Camel Trail, a popular cycling route, while keen golfers and riders are well catered for too. The old market town of Wadebridge is just two miles away, and foodie destination Padstow only six miles. Trevose peninsula is a surfers’ paradise, and Camel Valley vineyard is a must visit for tours and tastings.
home. Warm your toes around the woodburner after a day exploring the ‘Jurassic Coast’, while the children play in the games room. The country kitchen is a dream for cheffing and entertaining. Six bedrooms provide ample space for all of the family, most with stunning views.
Reference Y3 Salwayash, West Dorset
The tranquil garden is a great spot for escaping city life – woodpeckers, buzzards and deer are often spotted in this wonderful wildlife haven.
This delightful stone farmhouse for 12 combines traditional charm with modern comforts (such as an ecofriendly biomass heating system), creating a smart, welcoming
Salwayash village sits on the edge of Marshwood Vale, with great walks and cycle routes. It’s a fantastic spot for gathering the clans, close to Dorset’s spectacular coastline.
Marles Farmhouse
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Feock
Cornwall’s M ed
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S80
s a m t s i r h C and New Year
COTTAGES Celebrate in style in a luxurious home from home, at one of these fantastic cottages.
S80
Sandpipers
has all the space you could want for preparing and eating your Christmas dinner.
Reference S80 Feock, Cornwall Sandpipers, for nine, is a stunning waterside home, designed to make the most of its wonderful views, spacious rooms and large windows. You can spend Christmas morning ripping open the presents in the huge, oak-floored living room. Warmed by a woodburner, French windows flood this room with Cornish light as you sink into one of the vast sofas. The stunning L-shaped kitchen/ dining room, complete with Aga,
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There is a ground-floor single bedroom and shower-room, while upstairs there are four more double bedrooms. The master has an en suite bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, sofa, French windows to a covered balcony and those wonderful views. Outside, the enclosed garden is mostly lawned, with pretty flowerbeds, fruit trees and a large patio. The property’s water frontage makes this a sailor’s and kayaker’s paradise. It’s a superb
waterside property for family gatherings any time of the year. Feock is a lovely village, eyeing lazily an extensive estuary with creeks and open sea beyond. There’s a shingle beach for launching dinghies, sailing/ windsurfing/canoeing lessons, a beach café and golf nearby. You can take the King Harry Ferry across the water to the Roseland Peninsula, enjoy creek-side walks and explore the cathedral city of Truro and the popular seaside town of Falmouth from here.
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y a n e t r u o C d r o f Sa mp ntry Devon’s River Cou
Yondhill Barn Reference J108 Sampford Courtenay, Devon On the edge of Sampford Courtenay is a beautiful and stylish home, a well-thought-out modern place to stay in beautiful countryside and within easy reach of both the moor and the coast. Sleeping eight, this cottage, carefully and lovingly created from a former barn, is now a wonderful space for both families and friends to relax.
Steps lead up to beautiful open-plan living space, all in muted tones, with woodburner at one end and a beautiful fitted kitchen with range cooker. There is a double bedroom with smart en suite shower-room on this level too. A flight of stairs takes you down to two more bedrooms – a double with en suite shower-room, and a large family room with twin beds plus a day bed which converts to a double. A smart bathroom completes the layout on this floor. Sampford Courtenay is arguably one of the prettiest villages in
central Devon, abounding with thatched cottages, masses of flowers, a fine church and a good food pub. There’s coarse fishing nearby and the granite tors and wooded valleys of Dartmoor are just waiting to be discovered. There’s nothing finer than a Boxing Day walk on the moor! Some of Cornwall’s finest golden sand beaches are within reach. Sandymouth, Summerleaze and Widemouth, near Bude, are great places to take the children throughout the year.
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It’s a blast at
Wheal Martyn
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changed our world
• Adventure, discovery & fun for EVERYONE, even the dog! • EXPLORE 26 acres of ancient buildings & grounds • ENJOY woodland walks or cycle trails • SEE Cornwall’s largest working waterwheel
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pick it snap it tag it www.beachclean.net
01726 850362 www.wheal-martyn.com
Aidan
Wheal Martyn, Museum and Country Park, Carthew, St Austell, Cornwall PL26 8XG
If you like scouring the shoreline for bits of driftwood and shells, or have ever wondered at the natural treasures the tide brings in but aren’t quite sure what everything is, then the Marine Conservation Society Seashore Safari Guide will reveal some of the secrets of the strandline.
Explore the seashore with the Marine Conservation Society To get your Seashore Safari guide, visit:
www.mcsuk.org
Protecting our seas, shores and wildlife Registered Charity No: 1004005 (England & Wales); SC037480 (Scotland)
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Mullion The Lizard
e n o n i e l A ho
MAIN Another glorious sunset over Mullion Golf Club on the Lizard peninsula INSET Teeing off at Bovey Castle
Improve your game with our selection of top golf courses across the South West With miles of beautiful rolling countryside and rivers snaking through wooded valleys, the South West is home to an amazing diversity of golf courses. Many people escape to the West Country to enjoy a slower pace of life and reconnect with nature, if only for a week or so. What better way to do so than over a round of golf?
Whether a seasoned buff looking to knock a few strokes off your handicap or simply a casual enthusiast who enjoys whiling away a few hours in the great outdoors, we’re really spoilt for choice here,
with fantastic facilities and courses to suit all ages and abilities. What’s more, the coast adds a dramatic backdrop to many of our courses, while the sea breeze often creates an additional challenge and element to the game. We couldn’t possibly include all the fabulous courses the South West has to offer, so we’ve chosen just a small selection of must-visit courses across the region.
Mullion Golf Club, Cornwall One of the most westerly courses in the UK, this golf club sits in an
arresting location on the wild Lizard peninsula in the very far south-west of Cornwall. Over the years, the club has been frequented by literary greats, from Conan Doyle to Winnie the Pooh creator, A.A. Milne, visiting to enjoy golf in an enchanting setting, near the most southerly tip of mainland Britain, known for its unique flora and fauna and rugged beauty. A challenging coastal course, the winds here can be strong, but the ocean views are truly spectacular. mulliongolfclub.co.uk
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St Mellion International Resort, Cornwall Set in 450 acres of countryside, St Mellion is a golfer’s paradise. But don’t just take our word for it; to quote American golfing legend Jack Nicklaus, it’s “potentially the finest golf course in Europe.” He would know, as he designed the signature course personally. It’s also one of the most challenging. However, St Mellion is home to the fantastic and recently re-designed Kernow Course, as well as the Short Course, a perfect introduction for beginners and young families. st-mellion.co.uk
Bigbury Golf Club, Devon Visitors are always welcome at Bigbury, pitched as one of the friendliest clubs around. This clifftop course near Kingsbridge, in Devon’s South Hams region, is ideal for golfers of all abilities, with
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wide fairways, fast greens tempered by the sea breeze and an array of trees and bunkers. The on-site Pro Shop Performance Centre includes a workshop, with expert advice on hand to ensure clubs and equipment suited especially for you. Adjoining Burgh Island, inspiration of Agatha Christie, is a must-visit too. bigburygolfclub.co.uk
Bovey Castle, Devon Bovey Castle in the Dartmoor National Park was originally built for the heir to the WH Smith empire, in 1907. The 400-acre estate has since been transformed into a luxurious hotel, replete with a stunning 18-hole champion golf course in the grounds, designed by JF Abercromby in 1926. Described as both challenging and beautiful, it’s the perfect location to pass a few hours in the stunning Devon countryside. The estate boasts a welcoming and fully equipped
clubhouse, a driving range and a golf academy to master all your strokes. Bovey Castle also serves a rather wonderful afternoon tea. So why not treat yourself to a little slice of luxury after a busy morning out on the course? boveycastle.com/golf
Royal North Devon Golf Club A visit to Royal North Devon Golf Club at the imaginatively named Westward Ho! is essentially a pilgrimage for many golfers. Founded in 1864, it’s England’s oldest links course, the ‘St Andrews of England’. The golfing great John Henry Taylor cut his teeth on this course. The clubhouse is a mini golf museum, a treasure trove of interesting golfing paraphernalia. It’s also unusual in that it’s a ‘natural’ course, and largely unchanged for over a century. royalnorthdevongolfclub.co.uk
| Enquiries and Bookings 01647 434360 | www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
11/03/2016 12:44
Bovey Castle
COTTAGES nearby...
Dartmoor
OAKRIDGE: R21 Just two miles from St Mellion golf club Oakridge, for six, is a smart, detached, ‘upside down’ lodge, one of several in a peaceful, wooded valley. Two passes are included for free unlimited use of the gym, two swimming pools (free to children under 13) and a 50% reduction on green fees for both golf courses. This is a peaceful place with lots of wildlife to observe.
ST MELLION APARTMENT 29: L542 With views across to Burgh Island over the low-tide sandy causeway, this is one of a truly excellent, and very greatly appreciated, development of high quality apartments of which we let 13. There is a very good, private Leisure Club on site with a smart bar and food that can be served either in the Club or for you to take to your apartment.
NEAR BIGBURY The Dorset Golf and Country Club This fantastic course offers 27 holes of championship golf across three courses: The Woodland, Lakeland and Parkland courses, offering a unique golfing experience each time you visit. There are other great facilities on site, including the clubhouse and bar, fitness centre and training gym, fishing lakes and much more to keep everyone entertained and occupied, even those members of your group who aren’t fans of golf! dorsetgolfresort.com
Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club Enjoy clifftop links at Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club on the ‘Jurassic Coast’, an 18-hole course overlooking Lyme Bay. The exceptional drainage means that golf can be enjoyed here throughout the year at times when other clubs
LEFT Looking to Burgh Island from Bigbury-on-Sea, below the course ABOVE The course set in the beautiful grounds of Bovey Castle, Dartmoor
KITTY JAY: A89 Kitty Jay is part of a cluster of delightful, modern granite cottages subtly tucked away in the grounds of Bovey Castle. Sleeping six across three double rooms, with the flexibility of converting some into twins, the cottage cleverly mixes modern comforts with natural materials such as open beams, slate flooring and stone to create a luxurious but homely feel.
BOVEY CASTLE might have to close. A challenging test for any ability of golfer, there are many packages available for individuals or groups, and it’s worth a visit simply for the views alone! bridportgolfclub.co.uk
The Mendip Golf Club, Somerset Founded over a century ago, The Mendip Golf Club, sitting in an
elevated position near Wells in Somerset, promises incredible sweeping views across the countryside, with the mysterious Glastonbury Tor in the distance. In fact, on a clear day you can see across seven counties, including Welsh mountains. Of course, the golf is pretty good too, presenting a range of challenges to test your skills across the 18 holes. mendipgolfclub.com
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SPECIAL DESTINATION NEWTON FERRERS AND NOSS MAYO An idyllic riverside escape on Devon’s scenic south coast The South Hams, on Devon’s south coast, is a truly enchanting part of the world, known for its serene atmosphere, thriving foodie scene and stunning coastal landscape. Nowhere is this more wonderfully exemplified than the neighbouring villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo. Indeed, a visit to these picturesque communities facing each other on opposite sides of Newton Creek, on the River Yealm, is like a step back in time.
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Steeped in history dating back to Saxon times, it’s a beautifully serene spot, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life, particularly for those who enjoy messing about in boats. After a morning exploring the creeks and river inlets, moor up for a spot of lunch at Noss Mayo’s wonderful riverside gastro pub, The Ship Inn. You’re bound to fall in love with this location, and it’s no less beguiling an area to discover on foot, with miles of footpaths to explore.
| Enquiries and Bookings 01647 434360 | www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
11/03/2016 12:48
s r e r r e F n o t a w H e h t N Sou ms
Ultra-contemporary and stylish holiday home for eight, Myrtle Quay, with river-facing balconies
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Restore, reflect & reconnect on the Sharpham Estate, in Devon
SharphamTrust Sharpham House, Ashprington, Totnes, Devon, TQ9 7UT co 1 vo ffe FR To uc e o EE re he r re ce r w tea gu ive *O ffe re he pr lar xp ire n es fil s 30 or en te th Ju de t r ne 20 rin thi 16 g* s
Serving local, organic food and drink in stunning locations Summer evening dining at Blackpool Sands offering steak, freshly caught fish, crab and lobster Blackpool Sands available for functions, parties and weddings For opening times and menus visit www.lovingthebeach.co.uk 01803 770209
East Portlemouth
Tolcarne
Blackpool Sands 路 Bigbury on Sea 路 East Portlemouth 路 Dartington Watergate Bay 路 Tolcarne TheVenusCompany
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@TheVenusCompany
02/03/2016 10:05
Sharpha m Near Totnes
e r u t na
o t k c a B
Reconnect with nature and yourself on the beautiful Sharpham Estate, perched above the River Dart.
The River Dart snakes its way through the glorious south Devon countryside, where animals graze on the gently sloping hills, wildlife thrives in and around the riverbanks, and visitors come to unwind and reconnect with nature. What better place to enjoy this beauty than The Bathing House on the Sharpham Estate in the South Hams? In fact, you may be so dazzled by the view of the river flowing gently before you that you may forget to notice what’s behind you. But the beautiful Sharpham Estate has so much to do, explore and experience. The Estate’s 550-acres – within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – are home to a Grade I listed Georgian villa, two mindfulness and meditation centres, three farms and the celebrated Sharpham Vineyard and Sharpham Wine and Cheese.
Sharpham House, its parkland landscape (thought to have been designed by Capability Brown) and its 18th century walled garden are all managed by the Sharpham Trust, an education and conservation charity set up specifically to oversee, protect and conserve the Estate.
At the centre of the Trust’s ethos is a desire to build a more compassionate and environmentally sustainable world, fostering mindfulness and wellbeing through a programme of retreats, mindfulness courses, outdoor learning and the arts.
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DISCOVER SHARPHAM open to the Sharpham House and grounds are . year the of days ted selec on lic pub on the Learn to identify birds and their song bird UK and on Dev Dusk Chorus Walk, with man Lang e Mik r rato illust expert and on Saturday 14th May. on Sunday The Summer Open Day takes place ns, music, sessio r taste s, walk 3rd July, with tours, k. drin and food and ces rman perfo ils and to Visit www.sharphamtrust.org for deta book Sharpham Trust events. produce on Sharpham Wine and Cheese sells www. See . shop r Doo r site from the Cella s, tastings and tour of ils deta for .com pham shar opening hours. Vineyard The Anchorstone Café at Sharpham hes with a lunc ing serv mer, sum is open for the od and seafo fresh fantastic local menu including on. seas the ut ugho thro uce delicious local prod , call 01803 iries enqu e mak or table a k boo To ecafe.co.uk. 732178 or email info@anchorston
Discover Sharpham’s history Redesigned by Sir Robert Taylor in 1770, Sharpham House is an outstanding example of English Palladian architecture. Its reworking was commissioned by Captain Philemon Pownoll, flush with cash after capturing a booty-laden Spanish galleon and presenting the spoils to the Crown. The Bathing House was built on a bend in the River Dart at the same time as the house was redesigned. Over the centuries, the Estate has passed through various families, with the current owners, the Ash family, taking residence in 1962. Their ideas
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and activities formed the basis of the Trust’s work today. Maurice Ash married Ruth Elmhirst, daughter of Leonard and Dorothy who had in the 1920s created the intellectual, agricultural and artistic hotbed of Dartington Hall, just up the river from Sharpham.
a creative space for meditation and mindfulness that continues today. Wine and dine at Sharpham
Maurice had his own ideas about land use, ecology, Eastern philosophies and techniques such as meditation and local food supply and his work shaped that of the Sharpham Trust.
As we all know, wine and cheese are a match made in heaven. So a visit wouldn’t be complete without a tour and tasting at Sharpham Wine and Cheese. The vineyards, creamery and dairy farm on the Estate have been producing award-winning wines and unpasteurised cheeses for over 30 years.
As generous patrons of the arts, the Ashes invited artists and thinkers to live and work on the Sharpham Estate, helping to make
The 10-acre vineyard lies on sunny south-facing slopes, perfect for growing a range of carefully selected, cool-climate grape
| Enquiries and Bookings 01647 434360 | www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
16/03/2016 12:14
Sharpha m
COTTAGES nearby...
Near Totnes
THE BATHING HOUSE: L270 Perched on the wooded riverbank above the River Dart on the Sharpham Estate is this wonderful, Grade II-listed Georgian bathing house for three. Beautifully renovated, this charming hideaway in a truly idyllic setting makes the perfect romantic retreat. Explore the grounds at your leisure and take a dip in the pool over the summer months.
SHARPHAM, ASHPRINGTON SWALLOWS REACH: L135
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP The Bathing House
Swallows Reach is a large, handsome cottage converted from a detached barn on Bickleigh Farm in the South Hams. Sleeping up to 10, the cottage is perfect for large groups and families, enjoying use of a pool, games room and play area. Entertain with barbecues on the big private patio, soaking up the lovely long rural views to Torbay.
HALWELL, NEAR SHARPHAM
Nature abounds at Sharpham
IVY COTTAGE: C19
Award-winning wines and delicious cheeses
This beautiful cottage sits in a quiet valley alongside a leafy lane on the edge of the rural hamlet of Blagdon, a mile from Collaton St Mary. It’s just right for a family holiday where adults can relax and children can run and splash to their hearts’ content. You’ll no doubt make great use of the shared grounds, swimming pool and sauna.
The Poet Tree Image courtesy of: Mike Lang
man
BELOW Sharpham House
varieties, producing delicious wines using New World and traditional winemaking techniques. Both the wine and cheese are made from start to finish at Sharpham, giving a flavour that reflects its unique position in the South Hams area of Devon.
NEAR SHARPHAM
Whatever your state of mind upon arriving at Sharpham, one thing you can guarantee is leaving feeling invigorated and refreshed, and eager to return to this peaceful idyll soon. For more information on the Estate and its activities, visit www.sharphamtrust.org.
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Melt
IN THE MOUTH Take your tastebuds on a journey full of flavour with our guide to the West Country’s best ice cream
Clotted cream, delicious fudge, tasty cheese, the South West is famed for its rich, flavour-filled dairy produce, and nowhere else in the UK does ice cream quite like we do here. From the tried and tested classics like rum and raisin to the more exotic creations, there’s something for every taste. We’ve scoured the region to find the best ice cream parlours for your enjoyment – well, someone had to do it! With so many fabulous producers to choose from, it was a daunting task trying to narrow it down, so we’ve just provided a flavour of what to look out for.
Callestick Farm, Cornwall
Moo Maid of Zennor, Cornwall
The Parker family has farmed the local land near Truro for generations and has been making ice cream for a quarter of a century. Visits to the farm are free, so why not head over and see how they make the tasty tubs of ice cream yourself? There’s a tearoom and farmshop stocking a range of local produce and crafts as well, of course, as the yummy ice cream itself. Callestick Farm also produces wonderful ice cream cakes for any celebration.
Moo Maid of Tremedda Farm, west Cornwall, produces small batches of luxury ice cream, using either Rodda’s Cornish clotted cream or double cream which the farm helps to produce. Moo Maid also produces a range of refreshing sorbets in flavours ranging from champagne to passion fruit. They’ll even create innovative bespoke flavours such as Earl Grey tea, and cucumber and mint sorbet.
callestickfarm.co.uk
Salcombe Dairy, Devon
Roskilly’s, Cornwall
Kelly’s of Cornwall Kelly’s ice cream is synonymous with Cornwall. The story of the pioneers of Cornish clotted cream ice cream dates back to the late 1890s when the Italian Joseph Staffieri moved to St Austell, selling his homemade ice cream. Kelly’s are passionate about the quality of their ingredients and only use milk sourced from top Cornish farms which helps to support local farmers and ensures a delicious, authentic taste.
Salcombe Dairy was established in 1981 when enterprising Merchant Navy retiree Peter Howard turned to his wife on a walk along the beach and said: “I think I shall start an ice cream company”. The factory sits behind the harbour and production follows the same principles now as 30 years ago: use the best local ingredients and exacting standards. “The milk has always come straight from the farm first thing each morning; the double cream comes in fresh from the creamery.”
kellysofcornwall.co.uk
salcombedairy.co.uk
If you’re staying on the Lizard, be sure to visit Roskilly’s Farm near St Keverne. Entry to the farm is completely free, and the children will love meeting the menagerie of pigs, goats, chickens and other animals. But the main event is most definitely the delicious ice cream produced on-site from the herd of Jersey cows. Available in over 30 flavours, from bubblegum to cream tea, it’s one temptation you won’t be able to resist. roskillys.co.uk
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moomaidofzennor.com
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Roskilly’s
COTTAGES nearby...
The Lizard
HALLOWARREN BARN:T16
NEAR ROSKILLY’S
In a magical setting 100 yards from the head of Gillan Creek, this pretty cottage, sleeping six, has been converted from an 18th century threshing barn. It faces over extensive gardens and woodland, through which a sparkling stream runs, with kingcups, cherry blossom, magnolia and a host of other plants, making this a special place.This truly is a little bit of secret heaven.
WESTCOTT: H31 Tucked away along a pretty no-through lane in the heart of Corfe Castle, a detached, 16th century cottage for seven is full of charm, with leaded windows, flagstone floors, beams and knobbly walls.There’s a private, enclosed lawned garden with children’s slide and play tower. This is a characterful cottage with modern comforts in the heart of unspoilt countryside with the coast within easy reach.
NEAR PURBECK ICE CREAM
MAIN There’s nothing quite like a cooling ice cream on a hot day
Otter Valley, Devon Set in the beautiful Otter Valley, near Monkton, this fabulous dairy at Aplins Farm produces a range of award-winning artisan ice cream in over 25 flavours. So, if you’re heading through the West Country on the A30, then we recommend a stop off at the Summerhouse, open from mid-March onwards, to sample the tantalising taste sensation – the perfect remedy for any long journey. ottervalleydairy.co.uk Purbeck Ice Cream, Dorset Dorset’s ‘Jurassic Coast’ is not just famed for its dramatic scenery, it’s also home to the celebrated Purbeck Ice Cream. From the start, founders
Awaiting cottage
ABOVE Cows grazing on lush green pastures make for the most delicious ice cream
THE HAYBARN: E43 Surrounded by glorious countryside,The Haybarn is a neat, single-storey cottage, for six, one of four converted from barns around a courtyard, with your own lawned courtyard. Nearby footpaths lead to distant hills and vales and to the pub. This is a peaceful spot in the heart of the beautiful Somerset countryside, excellent for cycling and walking or touring the area.
NEAR LOVINGTONS ICE CREAM
Hazel and Pete Hartle were adamant they’d avoid unnecessary additives and colours, opting only for the finest quality, natural ingredients to produce their ice cream. Clearly this approach has paid off. Nearly three decades later, their award-winning ice cream is still proving a big hit. The adventurous might like to try Dorset Blue Vinny, made with blue cheese, or perhaps the red hot chilli.
Lovingtons Ice Cream, Somerset Hailing from the village of Lovington in Somerset, this luxurious ice cream has caused a stir since arriving on the scene nearly 20 years ago. Lovingtons won gold and silver awards at the Taste of the West 2015 for raspberry ripple and Cornish sea salted caramel flavours, respectively, so you know you’re in for a real treat.
purbeckicecream.co.uk
lovingtons.co.uk
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SOUND
Whether you’re the owner of a holiday home, or a family planning your summer holiday here in the West Country, ensuring everyone’s safety is paramount. As guests, naturally your primary goal is to have a fantastic break, spend quality time with loved ones and see some of the great attractions and locations the West Country has to offer. You should also expect a holiday that’s free from accidents and injuries, which holiday property owners do everything possible to ensure. However, you can also take the following precautions so that your holiday’s hazard-free:
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• On arrival familiarise yourself with the property • Read the guidebook – it will contain useful information • Before using equipment, heating or other systems and appliances, refer to the instruction manuals • Report any potential safety issues immediately to the property owner or caretaker
and managed. Pavey’s Cottagesure team suggests considering this five-step process: Step 1 Look for slip and trip hazards around the property, such as uneven floors, trailing cables and areas that are sometimes slippery due to spillages. Include outdoor areas. Step 2 Decide who could be harmed and how.
• Follow safety advice and notices whilst using play equipment and any leisure facilities
Step 3 Consider the risks. Are the precautions already taken enough to deal with the risks?
For property owners, insurance provider Pavey Group recommends that you regularly assess your property, ensuring any new potential hazards are identified
Step 4 Record your findings, along with the precautions you have taken. Step 5 Regularly review the assessment. If any significant
| Enquiries and Bookings 01647 434360 | www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
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G192 changes take place, make sure that precautions are still adequate to deal with the risks. After all, holidays are about having fun, relaxing and stepping away from the stresses of everyday. So, with help from Cottagesure, you can make sure the only thing on the minds of your guests is when to fire up the barbecue and which local gem to explore next. Pavey Group has successfully secured as clients 83% of the Helpful Holidays’ owners who have requested a quote. Pavey Group is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
ABOVE Make your holiday home as safe as it can be. By assessing potential hazards, such as stairs, balconies and pools, you can be safe in the knowledge that holidays will be accident free
Happy to help The Cottagesure team will be happy to provide you with a risk assessment template, or alternatively your Helpful Holidays inspector can assist you. If you believe you would benefit from: • Comprehensive cover, tailored to your property • Competitive premiums • Risk management advice and support • Fully managed claims service Please visit cottagesure.co.uk or call 0800 533 5600. Please mention Helpful Holidays.
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C
a l o c Ni ller Mi
OWNER INSIGHT Fate brings three generations together to share their love of this stunning Cornish cove.
Nicola Miller first went to Crackington Haven aged just six months. Her parents had fallen in love with the area years before and returned annually with their children for over 40 years. Nicola introduced it to her husband as soon as they passed their driving tests, aged 17, and they now visit with their three daughters, alongside the grandparents. Her earliest memories are of walking down to the beach from the cottages they rented: “We would walk down to the beach through
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the woods. On our way back we would always collect firewood or the fireplace in the cottage.� Nicola still loves walking along the cliffs as she did with her grandparents as a child, enjoying the fresh wilderness, sandy coves and rugged cliffs.
something they liked. Her main criteria for judgement was based on how far away from Crackington the house was. They narrowed the search to the coastal side of the A39, but after a year of looking, a couple of failed offers and being outbid they decided to stop searching.
In 2011 she decided to look for her own family holiday home in the area. Believing she would never be able to afford anything in Crackington Haven, she and her husband scoured the coasts of Cornwall and Devon to find
It was by a stroke of luck that she heard about Roskear, one of the properties she had originally dismissed as too expensive. Previously advertised as a single estate, the property had been split into three lots and re-advertised.
| Enquiries and Bookings 01647 434360 | www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
11/03/2016 13:08
n e v a H n o t g in k c a Cr Near Bude
COTTAGES nearby...
Crackington Beach - brilliant for bodyboarding
ROSKEAR: P88
CRACKINGTON HAVEN
Just a short walk from the beautiful, unspoiled coast of Crackington Haven, this luxurious holiday home is not lacking in size or style. Witness great sights from all rear-facing rooms with an unobstructed, sheep-dotted valley-to-sea view. Sleeping 12, with a modern and uncluttered open-plan design, this property is perfect for large families or groups holidaying together.
The view from Roskear
LEFT AND INSET For generations Nicola and her family have been making the most of the beach
They put in their offer for the main house and were successful. “After all our searching it was wonderful to be able to have a house in Crackington Haven,” Nicola explains. “The only problem was, after we bought it, the house all but fell down!”
In 2013 they had it rebuilt. Some of the original walls were restored, adding character and colour to the clean lines and modern interior. It has been transformed from a shabby bungalow to a large luxurious family house sleeping 12. The sweeping views of countryside
surrounding the property add to its charm and appeal as a great holiday home. Today, just as she did 40 years ago, Nicola can walk to the beach and back with her family, grandparents and children in tow. The wood store by the fireplace is always well stocked!
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l a i t n e s s E ADVICE Choosing the correct Buy-To-Let mortgage for your holiday home can be tricky with so many options on the market. To help prospective buyers navigate their way through the choice we asked Matt Begley, of Harris Begley Financial Planning, for his advice. Q. Do you have to have a specific Holiday-Let mortgage rather than a Buy-To-Let mortgage for a home that will be a holiday let for 12 months of the year? A. Yes, typically Buy-To-Let mortgage lenders make it a specific condition of the loan that you let any property on an “Assured Shorthold Tenancy” which gives a tenant the right to live in a property for a fixed number of months at the rent agreed in the tenancy agreement. This is inappropriate for short-term holiday lets of one or two weeks to lots of different people. It is also insufficiently flexible to allow you to charge different prices for high, low and mid season.
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With a Buy-To-Let mortgage, the lender uses a valuer to assess the potential rental income of a property. In contrast, for a HolidayLet mortgage, the lender looks at actual income achieved (if the property being bought is already used for holiday lettings) or asks for the opinion of a holiday letting agent, such as Helpful Holidays, who has experience of managing holiday properties in the area where you want to buy. With both types of mortgage, the rental income will determine how much you can borrow because lenders expect the rental income to cover the mortgage interest payments by at least 125%, but it could be more. The amount you can borrow also depends on the percentage of the property’s value (as determined by the lender’s valuation) that lender is prepared to lend, which is typically from 60% to 75% with Holiday-Let mortgages. To be eligible for a Holiday-Let mortgage, you’ll normally need a minimum personal income of
MAIN The golden sands of Croyde Bay INSET Matt Begley
£20,000 to £40,000 apart from the rental income, depending on the lender. Some lenders also insist that you are already a homeowner. When considering Holiday-Let lending there is a limited choice of mortgage products from a handful of lenders. Finding the right package for you can be time consuming and delay your progress in securing your new property. By employing a specialist HolidayLet Mortgage Broker you can concentrate on finding the right property whilst they focus on the best deal to suit your requirements. Muddled about mortgages? Concerned about conveyancing? Email your homebuying and borrowing worries to Matt Begley at hlm@harrisbegley.co.uk. Harris Begley Financial Planning The Regent, Chapel Street, Penzance TR18 4AE Office: 01736 366550 Mobile: 07795 144795 www.harrisbegley.co.uk enquiries@harrisbegley.co.uk
| Enquiries and Bookings 01647 434360 | www.helpfulholidays.co.uk
11/03/2016 13:10
HARRIS BEGLEY FINANCIAL PLANNING
trust • knowledge • experienCe wealth creation and financial solutions in Cornwall SPECIALISTS IN mortgages • pensions • investments life assuranCe • CritiCal illness benefit • equity release
Delivering the personal touch, because your needs are unique Contact us today for professional advice from a fully qualified adviser
01736 366550 • www.harrisbegley.co.uk Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or any other debt secured on it. For mortgages, we offer free consultations but a mortgage fee will apply at the application stage. Typically this is likely to be £495. Equity release is a lifetime mortgage or home reversion scheme. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration. The value of pension and investments can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.
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Image courtesy of: David Chapman
Centsrtaege
Hidden among the champion trees of Trebah Garden, we find a magnificent new amphitheatre.
Hidden away on the Helford estuary is the 26 acre retreat of Trebah Garden. Amongst its giant gunnera and vibrant magnolia, this coastal paradise presents a new attraction this year: an amphitheatre. The amphitheatre has been built in the heart of the garden amongst some of Trebah’s most imposing champion trees. Seating an impressive 300 people on its granite banks, it’s earned a huge amount of interest already from visitors and local artists hoping to perform on its stage.
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To manage its original programme of events, the amphitheatre welcomes a new team member, Guy Watson, who will be heading up this exciting adventure for the garden. We catch up with Guy to find out what he has planned for his first season in the open-air theatre. “Cornwall is all about being outdoors and being part of your surroundings and Trebah Amphitheatre, in this breathtaking setting, really celebrates that”. Passionate about what this venue could hold for Cornwall, Guy goes on to explain: “We’ve always had
artists asking to use the garden in some way for a performance or to explore a creative idea they have and so having a purpose-built theatre to host these events really puts Trebah on the map as a cultural centre for Cornwall.” “With so many artists contacting us this year, deciding on our 2016 season has been a real challenge. We really want to showcase some of Cornwall’s most talented individuals and companies, but we’re also welcoming artists from further afield. Trebah can’t help but inspire anyone who comes here
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Trebah G arden
COTTAGES nearby...
Cornwall ’s M ed
2, HALVOSSO: S34 Deep in flower-filled hedgerow lanes, this is one of a row of four Victorian quarrymen’s cottages in Halvosso, near Falmouth. More geese and ducks waddle past than vehicles.The cottage, sleeping four, has been totally renovated to provide smart, modern comfort with lovely long meadow views to the sea from upstairs. A well-equipped, welcoming cottage.
NEAR TREBAH GARDEN CHARLTON LODGE: S42 Approached by a pretty tree-lined lane, this lovely holiday home for four is the detached lodge to a splendid country house with fantastic uninterrupted sea views in Mawnan Smith. With a sunny patio and large wildlife pond, this is a great chill-out place for peace and quiet all year round and is well placed for the Coast Path, boat trips and gardens.
NEAR TREBAH GARDEN GARDEN FLAT 44: S75 In the heart of the vibrant waterside town of Falmouth, just a ten minute stroll from shops and restaurants, this well presented apartment, one of five within a detached house, has lovely waterside views of the river. Sleeping four, the living area is a great spot for boat-watching, as is the private lawned garden with decked seating area.
and we want to share what this theatre has to offer with as many people as we can, both the artists and the audience.” Being a proud Cornishman, Guy found his time training in theatre directing in London quite a contrast to life in his home town of Helston, about 30 minutes from Trebah. Now happily based back in Cornwall, Guy gives us a glimpse of what we can expect to see at Trebah Amphitheatre this summer. “There’s a real melting pot of shows happening at the amphitheatre in 2016. We’ve got shows for the whole
LEFT The stunning Trebah Garden ABOVE Enjoying a production in this unique setting
NEAR TREBAH GARDEN
“Cornwall is all about being outdoors and being part of your surroundings and Trebah Amphitheatre, in this breathtaking setting, really celebrates that.” Guy Watson
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Image courtesy of: David Chap
man
The South West has a wealth of activities and events to keep the entire family entertained during your holiday. For more events, turn to:
PAGES
10-11
ABOVE A captivated audience during a twilight performance
family, such as The Mousehole Cat during May; modern dance will be represented by Cscape’s site-specific show for Trebah, Neptunalia; our Cornwall night where we’re showcasing snippets from local choirs, traditional Cornish dancers and even a Cornish bagpiper! Later in the season we’ll be welcoming Duchy Opera with their new production of Die Fledermaus, as well as children’s storytellers, Shakespeare and the hilarious Miracle Theatre company. There really is something for every visitor to Cornwall at Trebah.”
The inspiration for this exciting new feature for the garden, that also provides a space for performing arts, arose after the area was cleared of Rhododendron ponticum with a grant from the Forestry Commission several years ago. A new path was created through the Chilean Coomb, a small valley that runs in a westerly direction off the main arterial path down through the garden to the sea. At the head of this valley, the amphitheatre was created; it’s within a natural ‘bowl’ at the top of the Chilean Coomb and fits well into the topography of the garden.
“Trebah can’t help but inspire anyone who comes here and we want to share what this theatre has to offer with as many people as we can, both the artists and the audience.” Guy Watson 60 Whats On Trebah.indd 60
This idea had been germinating for several years under the watchful eyes of the Garden Committee. The Committee is chaired by Robert Dudley-Cooke, owner of Lamorran House and Gardens on the Roseland, and includes Darren Dickey, Trebah’s Head Gardener, Director Nigel Burnett and a small group of trustees with specialist garden knowledge, including Ray Townsend, Arboretum Manager at Kew Garden. The project has had phenomenal support from the local community, members and visitors who’ve watched its evolution with admiration and anticipation. Pleasingly, the project has mostly been funded by generous donations from a ‘Friends’ adopt a seat scheme. If you’ve been inspired to visit this beautiful new venue, you can find details for the whole season at www. trebah-garden.co.uk/amphitheatre.
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South West Lakes
explore • discover • challenge • relax
e Creato n your ntwure adve
• walking • cycling • café • play area • archery • climbing • wakeboarding • sailing • windsurfing • bushcraft • canoeing • rowing • fishing • camping Wimbleball Lake Near Dulverton TA22 9NU 01398 371460
Roadford Lake Near Launceston PL16 0JL 01409 211507
Siblyback Lake Near Liskeard PL14 6ER 01579 346522
Stithians Lake Near Falmouth TR16 6NW 01209 860301
Tamar Lakes Near Bude EX23 9SB 01288 321712
www.outdoorandactive.uk.com www.swlakestrust.org.uk
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SPLENDID SHOPPING IN
e b m o c l Sa The stunning sailing and natural scenery of Salcombe, Devon’s southern-most town, has inspired locals to recreate the lifestyle for others to take away. Globally recognised brands Jack Wills and Quba Sails were both founded in this small town.
Jack Wills Jack Wills began in 1999 with two friends taking a risk. They started designing and creating British heritage-inspired goods for the university crowd. Now planting the Union Jack at over 80 stores around the world, that pioneering approach and commercial instinct remains. “We continue to be influenced by the best of British, from our history and culture to sporting and country pursuits. We take pride in using the finest quality materials, techniques and design to deliver our distinctive connection between the old and new, epitomising what it is to be young and fabulously British.” www.jackwills.com
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Quba Sails The Quba Sails brand was sparked by an idea to create unique jackets from reclaimed canvas sailcloth. Working with just one talented local seamstress, word of these custom jackets spread and Quba’s popularity quickly grew from orders from sea-faring locals to visiting yachtsmen and holidaymakers. The company (est. 1996) now reaches out to customers around the globe. With eight on the team, including the original seamstress, the brand has gone global and is approaching its 20th anniversary. Now offering a wider range of nautical-inspired clothing and accessories, holdalls and home furnishings, there’s plenty to browse through at their two stores. The second focuses on unique items made from heritage sailcloth for fashionistas and seafarers alike. www.quba.com Bibi and Mac Moving away from the nautical look, the fashion conscious will love the high-end designer range at Bibi and
Mac’s two stores. The closest thing you’ll get to urban chic this side of Selfridge’s. Will Bees Bespoke After 15 years at Quba Sails, a company he founded, Will Bees has now launched a new brand, Will Bees Bespoke, in 2014. Will explained why he chose Salcombe again when the success of Quba Sails means he could have set up business anywhere in the world: “I’ve been coming to Salcombe since I was a child and my family moved here permanently 20 years ago. I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else, particularly now I have a young family. Salcombe is synonymous with premium quality. I’ve had shops here before, but it’s different this time. We’re not on the high street. With Will Bees Bespoke, I wanted to combine the retail space with the artisan authenticity of our industrial workshop. Our waterside location on Island Street is nestled among the boat-building sheds that have been here far longer than any fashion brands. I wanted to respect that history of manufacturing, so
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11/03/2016 13:18
e b m o c l a S
COTTAGES nearby...
South Hams
FIRM ANCHOR: L59 In the gorgeous yacht haven of Salcombe resides this comfortable, three-storey family home for nine. Though only 800 yards from the waterfront, chock full of pubs, cafés and shops, you may never want to leave the view from home. Many of the rooms enjoy a fabulous long view of the estuary and surrounding picturesque countryside.
SALCOMBE ST MALO: L178 This dapper, mid-terrace Victorian townhouse sleeps six and is only a modest half-mile stroll from the waterfront. The property itself is stunning, with quirky nautical-themed décor, a lovely open-plan living/dining room and fantastic views, especially from the seating area around the large bay window. This holiday home is great for a family getaway in the ever-popular, chic, seaside town of Salcombe.
I feel Salcombe – and specifically where we are in Salcombe – is the perfect backdrop for our traditionally handcrafted luxury products.” www.willbeesbespoke.com Paper Bird Island For the young, and not so young, up-and-coming creatives and designers, Alice Alderson has created a friendly and relaxed art space, also on Island Street. She offers a range of projects to paint, glitter and decoupage. Alice says: “It’s a great place for family fun, whatever the weather”. Alice runs watercolour and drawing workshops which are suitable for beginners or anyone wanting to get their creativity flowing. “I think most people would agree that Salcombe is special because of its outstanding natural beauty and therefore it is a lovely place to be. There are incredible walks with the most fabulous views and the beaches are very clean, so it’s great for families”. www.paperbirdisland.com
LEFT MAIN Fine design from Jack Wills
3 HAZELDENE: L185 Five hundred yards from breathtaking North Sands Beach, this cool, contemporary, first-floor apartment sleeps four and provides the perfect fuss-free base for a small family looking to explore the South Hams. The view from the balcony – of shimmering blue sea – is simply stunning.
INSET LEFT AND ABOVE At Will Bees Bespoke you’ll find a glorious retail space combined with an authentic workshop ABOVE LEFT Unique sailcloth clothing from Quba ABOVE RIGHT Getting creative at Paper Bird Island
SALCOMBE
SALCOMBE
Discover more The helpful team at Salcombe Tourist Information know everything there is to know about this town; they can guide you around the best bits. Give them a call (01548 843927) before heading to the town or visit www.salcombeinformation.co.uk
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Image courtesy of: Alan Jones - exmoorphotographers.org.uk
DREAM SHOPS IN
n o t r e v l u D
Dulverton is a unique small town that has managed to keep hold of its high street. The butcher, baker, hardware store, post office, banks, even the old fishing and gun shop, still thrive with the support of residents and visitors alike. We spoke to three fantastic owners about their shops and what keeps the heart of Dulverton beating... Lance Nicholson
Patrick Veale, the charismatic owner of Lance Nicholson, a fishing tackle, country clothing and gun shop in Dulverton explains: “Like most shops in Dulverton, we believe customer service is the key to keeping shoppers coming back and giving them a pleasant experience in Dulverton. I believe all the shops
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rely on each other for Dulverton to work as a complete, pleasant, day out. As for his own store, Patrick said: “The shop was started in 1968 and I started here in 1979 as a shop assistant and then progressed on to own the place, so I am just getting the hang of it.” As well as offering classic country clothing and fishing tackle, Lance Nicholson makes its own range of fly fishing rods and carries out gun repairs on the premises. Number Seven Dulverton Davina Jelley owns Number Seven Dulverton, a stunning gallery, bookshop and craft shop that’s been open for 14 years. The subtitle ‘Tales, Art, Play’ celebrates all that Number Seven represents. Among
Image courtesy of: Alan
Jones
the collections is a wonderful selection of prints, including limited edition prints, by Louise Scott, Catherine Hyde, Wendy Andrew and Jackie Morris. It represents incredibly talented artists, writers, designers and sculptors from across the UK and is also home to the Walking Book Club that welcomes holidaymakers to join. The Dulverton Deli Supporting the wealth of independent shops in the town is Emily Kaye. Having visited her grandparents in the town since her childhood, she decided to leave the family farm in Surrey to set up The Dulverton Deli 11 years ago. The Deli offers a full range of products, from fresh bread to fine foods. She sources lots of local
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17/03/2016 10:23
Dulverton
COTTAGES nearby...
Exmoor
BARN COTTAGE: F10
NEAR DULVERTON
Beautiful, remote and serene, this detached cottage in Hawkridge is in the heart of the Exmoor National Park, perfect getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. The property sleeps eight and just 300 yards away sit the curious medieval Tarr Steps, allowing you to cross the river to reach the local pub/restaurant. Prepare to be surrounded by glorious wildlife in this rustic retreat.
VALLEY LODGE: F65 Sheltered in the Exe valley, this large, single-storey, detached lodge is tranquillity incarnate at Exebridge. With an acre and a half of riverside meadow and sleeping seven, this wonderful hideaway is perfect for a large family with plenty of space for children. The local village includes a great gastro-pub and fishing school, with other shops within five minutes’ drive.
NEAR DULVERTON THE MOUNT: F69
Image courtesy of: Alan Jone s-
Situated high on the hill above Dulverton, with fabulous views over the town and the surrounding fairytale woods, this elegant, detached Victorian house for ten is packed with comfort and style. Dulverton itself is home to a score of fantastic shops, pubs, galleries and a popular Thai restaurant; you won’t have to stray far for any creature comforts.
exmoorphotographers.org.uk
products, including great cheeses, meats and dairy and sells flowers grown on her sister Eleanor’s farm. “It’s a family affair really. We’re a shop for local people, but are also happy to welcome and cater for holidaymakers. We can arrange picnic hampers and fresh foods for their stay too,” says Emily. When I asked why the town is so special she explained: “It’s a bit like going back in time. Unlike so many other towns which have lost the heart of their high street, Dulverton has kept it. Everybody has great pride in their shops and the whole place”.
LEFT Fine food at Dulverton Deli and the stunning Number Seven gallery
DULVERTON
ABOVE Fresh flowers and cobbled walkways BELOW RIGHT The shops in Dulverton are eclectic and interesting
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Porlock Vale Exmoor
s e t i r u eTa m favo ADRIAN INNOCENT Marketing Manager Adrian Innocent lives in Bovey Tracey, right on the edge of Dartmoor. He visited the West Country some 40 years ago and returned every year, falling for the South Hams so deeply he decided to move his family here 14 years ago. “This part of Devon is a very special area, simply beautiful countryside, villages and coastline. I can be up on the high moor in minutes by car, but can also reach the lovely
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beaches of the South Hams within half an hour or so - spoiled for choice.” Although he came from a beautiful area in the Home Counties, the Chiltern Hills on the borders of Bucks/Oxon, he believes that this is God’s country (“despite what the Yorkshiremen say!”).
whole area great walking country. Watersmeet, where the East and West Lyn Rivers converge in a beautiful wooded valley, has miles of footpaths to follow.
Adrian has been at Helpful Holidays for what he describes as nine happy years and believes it’s the people who work at Helpful Holidays who make it so great. “They are relaxed, easy going, easy to get on with, but all are dedicated HH types, which means they have underlying professionalism and commitment.”
“My wife and I enjoyed a fabulous house party a few years back with the HH team. We had very warm welcome from the Youds who were great hosts; nothing was too much trouble for them, providing lots of hints and tips to make the most of the area during our visit.”
The properties are also stunning. Adrian’s favourite is Chief Instructor’s Apartment (F55) in Porlock Vale: “Quite simply because the walking is magnificent right from the doorstep.” The South West Coast Path, Valley of the Rocks and fantastic clifftop walking and views are unrivalled, and that coupled with wide open expanses and the wooded valleys of Exmoor make the
Adrian also loved the country welcome and hospitality laid on at Porlock Vale House (F30).
From Adrian’s encyclopaedic knowledge of trails, paths and tracks, you can tell walking is a big part of his life. “Walking is one of my favourite pastimes – something I share with my two boys Jerome (23) and Joel (21), who are both keen walkers and were experienced Ten Tors participants when at school in Kingsbridge. They always encourage the old man to go that extra mile, which is always worth the effort!”
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Feock
Cornwall’s M ed
be able to do. It’s so nice when you help a family or group make their booking and you can hear the excitement once it’s all confirmed and they have something to look forward to.”
ELEANOR DURANT Booking Office Assistant Eleanor calls Chagford home. Although born in Kent, her parents quickly swept her back to Devon and, apart from four years studying in Bristol and London, she’s lived here since. She’s fortunate enough to have what she describes as a ridiculously short commute to the Helpful Holidays office!
The people she works with make a huge difference too, ensuring working life is really enjoyable. “The atmosphere in the office is always friendly and fun and there’s such a great level of support from everyone. I feel very lucky to be able to say that I love my job.” The third and best bonus of her job is that she gets to talk about and explore the South West, her favourite place in the world.
Instead of taking her work home with her, Eleanor decided to take the family to her work, in a manner of speaking, booking one of her favourite Helpful Holidays homes for her Mum’s birthday, Sandpipers (S80) in Feock, Cornwall. “Mum loves birdwatching and has family in that area so it was the perfect fit. The house itself is stunning and its location right on the river is just amazing. It even has its own mooring you can access from the garden.” The family spent a lot of time walking along the river with their dog and they enjoyed some of the great restaurants and pubs in the area, including the historic Pandora Inn on the other side of the creek.
A relative newbie at Helpful Holidays, Eleanor joined the team just over a year ago. As a Booking Advisor who takes great joy and pride in her work, she said: “I’m helping people book their holidays and that is such a lovely thing to
FIND MOR E For fu ONLIN E won ll details
d o enter erful holi f all thes refere the name day home e nc s, o www e in the ‘s r propert y .help fulho earch’ bar liday s.co.u at k
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t o o F t Bes
d r a Forw
Lace up your boots for the brand new walking festival, Walk West Cornwall, and discover the region’s amazing landscape.
Walking is great for both body and soul. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to exercise and in the South West you get to take in some exquisite scenery along the way. Thomas Jefferson advised his nephew: “Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very far.” Figuring out routes to ‘walk very far’ can be a challenge, but we’ve found the perfect solution. The creation of Helpful Holidays’ Property Manager, Bev Plunkett, Walk West Cornwall has been ten
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years in the offing. Relocating to Cornwall eight years ago, walking has always been in Bev’s blood. She set up the Pocahontas Promenade in Gravesend while working there as a Tourism and Heritage Manager and, after moving to the West Country, wanted to share her love of walking with the local community. Bev mooted the idea of a walking festival to Helpful Holidays’ MD Moray Bowater who immediately gave it the thumbs up and so Walk West Cornwall was born. The Helpful Holidays team all live and
work in the West Country and are delighted to be sharing their love and knowledge of the region. “West Cornwall is a magical place and we’re excited to be offering both residents and visitors the opportunity to join us and discover special places, meet fellow walkers and enjoy exercising in the fresh Cornish air,” explains Bev. Bev adds: “There are so many beautiful places to walk in our part of Cornwall and I wanted to be able to share these with others. To enable us to do this, we’ve recruited
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17/03/2016 10:19
The Lizard
oint Most southerly p
iva l co-ord inator
Image courtesy of Carla Regler
Bev Plunkett, fest
the help of some excellent local guides who’ll be leading the walks and sharing their knowledge and expertise with all who join us.”
FAR LEFT Sunset over Kynance Cove on The Lizard
So why not dust off your walking boots for three days of varied family-friendly guided walks across spectacular landscape and around the glorious west Cornwall coast, from 14th to 16th June 2016?
ABOVE FROM TOP Lizard Point, the most southerly tip of England
With coastal, art, foraging, historical and adventure walks, helpfully rated from ‘Easy’ to ‘Hard’, there’s something for all the family, including four-legged
Walkers scale the cliffs at Mullion Head
Meet the guides Vix Hill-Ryder
“I set up The Family Foraging Kitchen in 2013 to teach people the skills to find food that is exciting, delicious, sustainable and nutritious. After the birth of our son, my husband and I left our successful careers in the Third Sector and moved from London – back to the village where I grew up in south-east Cornwall. I teach people from all walks of life how to safely identify wild edibles and poisonous species so they have the skills to feed their families in a nutritious, sustainable way, for free, forever.”
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friends. Indeed, dogs are welcome and will have a tail-wagging time! Many walks are free of charge, and there’s no charge for children under 12 on any of the walks. From breathtaking clifftops and crystal clear sea on the ‘Pirates of Prussia Cove’ walk, to historic town landmarks on the ‘Heart of Helston’ two-mile stroll, come and discover the ‘end of England’. Join ‘Foraging for Flora and Fauna’ to harvest amazing wild produce around Porthleven and turn it into delicious dishes (and eat it!) with the help of an outdoor cookery demonstration. ‘Learning About Lamorna Artists and Paintings’ around the haunts of the Newlyn School artists is a treat for art
buffs, and the ‘Coastal Sunset Trail’ will take you on a magical evening walk around St Just, across beautiful moorland as the sun sinks and foxes, badgers and barn owls emerge into the dusk. The festival promises to be three funpacked days of guided walks through the most fantastic scenery in great company. If you can’t make all three days, you’ll be welcome to join any individual walks. The Helpful Holidays team would love to see you! Thank you to our Walk West Cornwall sponsors: Pavey Insurance and Financial Services, Engine House Media, Headland Printers, Pisky Cove and The Square At Porthleven.
Ann Tryhorn
“I am a retired assistant head teacher of a Cornish primary school – a native, Cornish lass, born and bred! After teacher training and just over 10 years teaching in other parts of the country, I returned to my much loved homeland of Cornwall, to continue my teaching career. I have two grown up children, Emily and Polly, plus four grandchildren aged between two and nine. I am enjoying retirement, pursuing my interests that include walking, dancing and rowing.”
Images courtesy of: Tom Young
Images courtesy of: Tom Young
Meet the guides
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Exploring at Prussia Cove St Michael’s Mount Helston at dusk Stepping out on The Lizard
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Cadgwith The Lizard
COTTAGES nearby... APRIL COTTAGE: T25 In the heart of Coverack, just a stone’s throw from the beach and harbour, this 18th century cottage, sleeping six, has been beautifully renovated. There are wonderful sea views from the elevated terraced garden and a decked area in which to sit back and enjoy the vista. This is an idyllic and homely cottage, well suited for simply relaxing or superbly located for exploring.
THIS IMAGE Fishing boats at Cadgwith Cove
DIARY OF EVENTS Tuesday 14th June 2016 Cadgwith Cove and Coast An enjoyable circular coastal walk from the fishing village of Cadgwith Manors, Monuments and Castles An exhilarating walk from Treloyan Manor via Tregenna Castle to St Ives Rinsey Romp An invigorating linear walk along the coast to St Michael’s Mount Foraging Walk A wild food walk and forage with an outdoor cookery demonstration Stroll Around Penzance An interesting and humorous walking tour of this historic market town
COVERACK MAZEYS COTTAGE: T11 Just half a mile from Germoe, on a 15 acre smallholding, this wonderfully spacious and tranquil cottage for five has been lovingly converted from an 18th century barn. Solar panels, a small wind turbine and 21st century insulation make it comfortable and ecologically friendly. Lovely footpaths lead from the door and wind up to the top of nearby Tregonning Hill.
GERMOE
3 CARRALACK TERRACE: Z448 A five minute walk from the centre of St Just is this very sweet, terraced cottage for six. With an enclosed front garden and small, walled back garden, the outside space is lovely and private. The interior is homely and full of charm, with lots of traditional touches including exposed granite stone walls and traditional bonnet ceilings in the bedrooms.
Wednesday 15th June 2016 Mullion March A walk with wonderful views from the spectacular Lizard coastline Learning about Lamorna A walk especially for art lovers with information on famous artists and paintings Pirates of Prussia Cove A walk around the beautiful, crystal clear cove Foraging for Flora and Fauna A wild food walk and forage with an outdoor cookery demonstration Coastal Adventures Walk Spectacular clifftop walking with seascapes, wildlife and archaeology The Heart of Helston Join this walk around the famous haunts of Helston Coastal Sunset Trail A circular evening walk taking in some beautiful moorland
Geevor to Botallack Discover amazing heritage sights deep in picturesque mining land Full Day West Walk Explore the woods, trails and flora and fauna around Loe Bar
Thursday 16th June 2016 Walk Back in Time A walk across the glorious Lizard headland to the Wireless Station St Just to Gwenver A fascinating picnic walk along this beautiful coastline Stroll Around Penzance An interesting walking tour of this historic town and port
For more information on the Walk West Cornwall festival: www.walkwestcornwall.co.uk info@walkwestcornwall.co.uk Call Helpful Holidays on 01647 434360 Places on the walks are limited, so please book in advance.
ST JUST-IN-PENWITH
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What’s on Spring is here and the bustling summer season is just around the corner. With more going on than ever, there’s never been a better time to visit this glorious county. Whether it’s Falmouth Week, Culdrose Air Day or the Royal Cornwall Show, there’s something for everyone.
RNAS Culdrose A ir
Day
Royal Cornwall Show
MAIN IMAGE The marquee on The Moor, Falmouth Week
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EVENTS DIARY
OCTOBER 2016
SEPTEMBER 2016
AUGUST 2016
JULY 2016
JUNE 2016
MAY 2016
CORNWALL
May 6 - 8
Thundercat National Championships Newquay
May 14 - 21
Literature Festival St Ives
May 7
Flora Day Helston
May 20 - 22
Tunes in the Dunes Perranporth
May 7 - 14
Festival of Words and Music Fowey
May 21 - 30
Fal River Festival Falmouth
May 14 - 15
Food and Drink Festival St Ives
May 28 - Jun 5 Open Studios Cornwall
Jun 3 - 5
Charles Causley Festival Launceston
Jun 18 - 25
Feast Week St Austell
Jun 9 - 11
Royal Cornwall Show Wadebridge
Jun 18 - 27
Golowan Festival Penzance
Jun 17 - 19
Sea Shanty Festival and Classics Regatta Falmouth
Jun 25 - 26
Food Festival Looe
Jun 18 - 25
Music and Arts Festival Polperro
Jun 26 - Jul 2
Feast Week Mevagissey
Jul 1 - 3
Vintage Rally and Country Fair Padstow
Jul 28
RNAS Culdrose Air Day Helston
Jul 11
Agricultural Show Stithians
Jul 28
Agricultural Show Launceston
Jul 15
Oyster Festival Rock
Jul 28 - 31
Port Eliot Festival St Germans
Jul 24 - Aug 1
Carnival Week Looe
Jul 29 - 31
Boconnoc Steam Fair Lostwithiel
Aug 5 - 14
Falmouth Week Falmouth
Aug 24 - 26
Morval Vintage Steam Rally Looe
Aug 12 - 14
Cornish Steam and Country Fair Penryn
Aug 27
Regatta Portscatho
Aug 14 - 20
Regatta and Carnival Week Fowey
Aug 29
Fish Festival Newlyn
Aug 15
Carnival Bude
Aug 30 - Sep 2 Jazz Festival Bude
Sep 3 - 4
Ladies Pilot Gig Championships Newquay
Sep 10 - 24
September Festival St Ives
Sep 4
World Bellyboard Championships St Agnes
Sep 16 - 18
Fish Festival Newquay
Sep 9
Polo on the Beach Newquay
Sep 23 - 25
Looe Music Festival Looe
Sep 10 - 16
Walking Festival South East Cornwall
Sep 23 - 25
Cornwall Food and Drink Festival Truro
Oct 1 - 2
Food, Arts and Craft Festival Boscastle
Oct 20 - 23
Beer Festival Falmouth
Oct 5
Honey Fair Callington
Oct 20 - 23
Heartlands Market Weekend Pool
Oct 8 - 9
British SUP Championships Newquay
Oct 27 - 30
Jazz and Blues Festival Calstock
Oct 13 - 16
Oyster Festival Falmouth
Oct 29 - Nov 26 Cornwall Film Festival Cornwall
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What’s on From trawler racing to sailing regattas, music festivals and carnivals, Devon is jam packed with events this summer. The annual British Firework Championships will certainly be a highlight of the calendar, promising an explosive August, with other exciting events being held all year round.
Flower show, D evon County Sho w
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MAIN IMAGE Best in breed at the Devon County Show
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EVENTS DIARY
OCTOBER 2016
SEPTEMBER 2016
AUGUST 2016
JULY 2016
JUNE 2016
MAY 2016
DEVON
May 1
International Worm Charming Festival Blackawton
May 13 - 15
Dart Music Festival Dartmouth
May 1
Salcombe Crabfest Salcombe
May 19 - 21
Devon County Show Exeter
May 7 - 13
Dawlish Country and Western Festival Dawlish
May 27 - 30
Hunting of the Earl of Rone Combe Martin
May 13 - 15
Crediton Folk Weekend Crediton
May 28 - 29
Brixham Heritage Sailing Regatta Brixham
Jun 3 - 5
Food and Music Festival Kingsbridge
Jun 16 - 19
Shaldon Music Festival Shaldon
Jun 10 - 12
Contemporary Craft Festival Bovey Tracey
Jun 17 - 19
Goldcoast Oceanfest Croyde
Jun 11 - 19
Ilfracombe Victorian Celebrations Ilfracombe
Jun 17 - 19
18th Teignmouth Folk Festival Teignmouth
Jun 12
Seaweed Festival Clovelly
Jun 18
Brixham Trawler Race Brixham
July 8 - 16
Budleigh Salterton Music Festival Budleigh Salterton
July 16 - 23
Kingsbridge Fair Week Kingsbridge
July 8 - 18
Way with Words Festival Dartington
July 17
Clovelly Maritime Festival Clovelly
July 9 -10
European Grand Prix Rugby 7s Exeter
July 22 - 23
Chagstock Music Festival Chagford
July 15
Lammas Fair Procession Exeter
July 23
Mid Devon Show Near Tiverton
Aug 3
North Devon Show Umberleigh
Aug 18
Chagford Show Chagford
Aug 6
Shaldon Water Carnival Shaldon
Aug 19 - 21
Beautiful Days Festival Escot Park
Aug 7 - 12
Salcombe Yacht Club Regatta Salcombe
Aug 19 - 24
Torbay Royal Regatta Torbay
Aug 16 - 17
British Fireworks Championships Plymouth
Aug 25 - 27
Dartmouth Royal Regatta Dartmouth
Sep 3
Kingsbridge Show Kingsbridge
Sep 13
Widecombe Fair Widecombe
Sep 4
Lobster and Crab Feast Clovelly
Sep 14 - 18
Agatha Christie Festival Torquay
Sep 10
Fishstock Brixham
Sep 16 - 18
Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival Budleigh Salterton
Sep 10 - 25
Devon Open Studios Devon
Sep 23 - Oct 2
Appledore Book Festival Appledore
Oct 1
Celebrating 100 Years of Vintage The Guildhall, Plymouth
Oct 18
Raceday Exeter Racecourse
Oct 3 - 4
Powderham Food Festival Powderham
Oct 20 - 29
Two Moors Festival Dartmoor and Exmoor
Oct 8 - 9
Royal Marines Commando Challenge Yettington
Oct 21 - 23
Dartmouth Food Festival Dartmouth
Oct 12
Goosey Fair Tavistock
Oct 22
Honiton Carnival Honiton
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What’s on Dorset and Somerset are the gateways to the South West, both enjoying rolling countryside and dramatic coastlines. They’re also great destinations for entertainment and festivals. Whether exercising your funny bone at the Bath Comedy Festival or enjoying Thundercat Racing in Bournemouth, you won’t be short of things to do.
xxxx Harbour xxxx olexxxx Poxxxx in s p i h s ll Ta MAIN IMAGE Poole Harbour Boat Show
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Jazz festival
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EVENTS DIARY
OCTOBER 2016
SEPTEMBER 2016
AUGUST 2016
JULY 2016
JUNE 2016
MAY 2016
SOMERSET
DORSET
May 1
Minehead Hobby Horse Celebrations Minehead
May 1
Blessing of the Boats Lyme Regis
May 6 - 7
Wells May Charter Fair Wells
Mid May
Baby Swans Hatching Abbotsbury Swannery
May 8
Frome Blues Festival Frome
May 20 - 22
Poole Harbour Boat Show Poole
May 20 - 30
International Music Festival Bath
May 28 - Jun 12 Purbeck Art Weeks Purbeck
June 1 - 4
Royal Bath and West Show Bath
June 3 - 5
Bournemouth Wheels Festival Bournemouth
June 8 - 10
Priddy Folk Festival Priddy
June 12 - 18
Bridport Food and Beer Festival Bridport
June 10 - 12
Home Farm Music Festival Chilthorne Domer
June 18 - 20
Armed Forces and Veterans Celebration Weymouth
June 18 - 19
Weston Air Festival Weston-super-Mare
June 25 - 26
Tankfest 2016 at the Tank Museum Bovington
July 1 - 10
Frome Festival Frome
July 8 - 10
Swanage Jazz Festival Swanage
July 2
RNAS Yeovilton Air Show Yeovil
July 9 - 10
Dorset Seafood Festival Weymouth
July 22 - 25
Summer Jazz Weekend Dunster
July 17
Classics at the Castle Sherborne Castle
July 22 - 23
Beer and Bluegrass Festival Branksome
July 24 - Aug 28 Scott May’s Daredevil Stuntshow Brean
Aug 5 - 6
Taunton Flower Show Taunton
Aug 7
Poole Carnival Poole
Aug 5 - 7
Outcider Festival Compton Martin
Aug 16 - 17
Weymouth Carnival Weymouth
Aug 13 - 14
Bridgwater Classic and Vintage Show Bridgwater
Aug 18 - 21
Bournemouth Air Festival Bournemouth
Aug 26 - 28
Somerset Rocks Taunton
Aug 25 - 29
The Great Dorset Steam Fair Blandford Forum
Sep 3
Shaun the Sheep West Somerset Railway
Sep 3
Bridport Hat Festival Bridport
Sep 11
Classic Bus Rally Weston-super-Mare
Sep 3 - 11
Gillingham Walking Festival Gillingham
Sep 16 - 18
Priston Festival Bath
Sep 9 - 11
Swanage Folk Festival Swanage
Sep 24
Wellington Carnival Wellington
Sep 10 - 11
Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival Sturminster Newton
Oct 1
Ilminster Carnival Ilminster
Oct 1
Shaftesbury Carnival Shaftesbury
Oct 6 - 9
Steam Gala, West Somerset Railway Somerset
Oct 6 - 9
Swanage Blues and Roots Festival Swanage
Oct 15
Taunton Carnival Taunton
Oct 10 - 16
Bridport Open Book Festival Bridport
Oct 30
Helicopter Museum Open Cockpit Day Weston-super-Mare
Oct 26
Access All Areas at the Tank Museum Bovington
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A Good k Boo There can be nothing finer than curling up with a good book and a glass of wine. From coffee table classics to thrilling adventure stories for older children, our selection of great reads has something for everyone.
TASTING WINE AND CHEESE By Adam Centamore £15.99
Rea d chee more ab se a o nd w ut ine
Can there be anything better than the combination of a great wine and cheese? From a robust cabernet with a sharp, aged cheddar to a crisp Sancerre with a tangy, creamy chevre, getting the match just right can make all the difference. Written by Maitre d’Fromage Adam Centamore, he guides you through the world of flavour pairing, with an emphasis on understanding and developing your own palate. With sections on white, red, sparkling and dessert wines, you’ll always have the perfect pairing for your table.
P
AG 47 - ES 49
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THE FINEST GARDENS OF THE SOUTH WEST By Tony Russell £15.99 Written by BBC garden-writer and broadcaster Tony Russell, The Finest Gardens of the South West is one of the best books on the subject and essential reading for anyone interested in visiting and understanding gardens. It’s one of those rare tomes that works equally as well on the coffee table or as a faithful companion in the car. For each of the fifty gardens featured, there are details on design, plants, history, architecture and personalities, covering the full diversity of gardens across the South West with stunning photography.
WILD GUIDE By Tania Pascoe £14.99 Imagine a summer of swimming in secret coves and stargazing. This compendium of adventures features the best wild places to visit in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset. Great places to eat and stay and ideas for weekend itineraries are illustrated with wonderful photos and engaging travel writing. This is the perfect book for those seeking new adventures with the family or the ultimate romantic weekend escape.
RAILHEAD By Philip Reeve £9.99
HISTORY OF GOLF IN FIFTY HOLES By Tony Dear £12.99 Whether you’re an armchair enthusiast or a fairway expert, this delightful gift book is required reading for any golfer. Packed with hints, rules and fascinating insights into the glorious game, each pearl of wisdom is beautifully illustrated. Golf is a game that sometimes pleases, sometimes frustrates, but always enthralls. Its nuances can take a lifetime to unravel. The History of Golf in 50 Holes is the perfect companion for that journey.
Railhead is the long-awaited new blockbuster from Carnegie-medal-winning author Philip Reeve. Written with eloquence and narrative passion, this is a novel that will appeal to both children and adults alike. Living on Dartmoor, it was a trip to nearby Lydford Gorge that was Reeve’s unlikely inspiration for the setting of the book. Railhead is set in a far-flung galaxy connected by thousands of gates, linked by indestructible rails and is a story full of adventure and intrigue.
Further reading...
5. AN EAGLE IN THE OW SN This is the powerful new novel from the master Michael purgo ael Mor Michstoryteller, By Morpurgo, who cites living in Devon, listening to Mozart 9 and working with £12.9 children as providing the stimulus he needs to discover and write his stories. An Eagle In The Snow is inspired by the true story of one man who might have stopped World War II.
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iF onah t a n j i Br Q&A We speak to Far Frontiers’ director Fiona Brijnath to find out some of her favourite destinations, dining and days out.
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16/03/2016 12:09
h
Q. What’s your favourite place in the world? A. Wow, a tough one! Probably Mongolia for its vast open spaces, horse-ingrained culture and incredible landscapes; Nepal for its mountains; Tibet for its brave people, stunning scenery, atmospheric monasteries and dramatic roads; Antarctica – a once in a lifetime opportunity to travel there; Myanmar for its incredible serenity and picturesque floating villages; Russia for its starkly austere buildings and patriotic people… I could go on! Closer to home, what’s your favourite? Walk Too many to list… the Deer Park at Sandy Park, Wistman’s Wood, the Kestor/Gidleigh woods circuit from Scorhill. I have lived on Dartmoor on and off since I was 16, so have done countless walks over the years, though there are many more to discover when I have a bit more time.
Activity
Weekend away
Camping and travelling. I like the freedom of going where you like when you like and not having to clock watch all day! I travelled a lot in my twenties with just my rucksack for company. It was wonderful.
I just cannot get enough of Cornwall and my husband and I try to escape for a weekend every so often to a quiet, tucked-away little hotel. The Driftwood on the Roseland Peninsula and the Coastguard Hotel in Mousehole have looked after us very well in the past.
We live right under Cawsand Hill, so any moorland walk is a favourite for me and I try to get on to the moor every week if I can. I never get bored of the view from the top of Cawsand Beacon.
Food
Beach
A drop of my very own homemade sloe gin with berries picked from the same secret tree on the edge of the moor.
I don’t like shopping and rarely go, unless it’s to buy a birthday present! Mole Avon, the farmer’s store, always comes up trumps if I’m looking for a little something for a friend – it’s only ten minutes away and stocks a huge variety of things!
Pub
Treat
The Oxenham Arms in South Zeal is our local so I go there if clients are coming to see me and we need some sustenance. The Sandy Park Inn, near Chagford, was the watering hole of my youth.
Lunch at the Dartmoor Inn, near Lydford, if I’m feeling extravagant. Failing that, a nice cup of Indian Spiced Tea – my husband is Indian and we go to visit almost annually. So I always bring back a few bags of their special Masala tea so I can enjoy a taste of India when back home!
As a family we’re huge campers and head for the Cornish coast with our tent and boogie boards several times a year. Kynance Cove is a stunner but best in winter when not besieged! There are a number of beautiful nameless hidden coves on the north Cornish coast which I love to visit – especially those which you have to scramble down to and may well be lucky enough to have to yourself… so I best not mention them here! Festival I’m not a festival-goer, but did go to Chagstock a couple of years back when the temperature was in the high 20 degrees. Phew, what a scorcher!
Any seafood. Ideally a steaming bowl of fresh mussels with crusty bread. Top tipple
Restaurant The beach pods on Porthmeor Beach in St Ives, sitting watching the sunset under a warm blanket with a heater above and nothing between your table and the sea. Way to relax Gardening!
Shop
Read m ore Fiona and he about r Far Fro company ntiers
PAGES
18 - 20
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Caroline Quentin, actress and West Country resident, tells us why the South West is so special to her.
el Pearce Image cour tesy of: Da ni
Last words... SEEING RED One of my earliest memories is of being on a train with my mother, one hot summer’s day during the early 1960s. I would have been about four years old and we were heading from Surrey to Truro to holiday with relatives in Cornwall. I can still remember being giddy with excitement as we passed through Dawlish Station, the train track running so close to the sea that it seemed to me we’d definitely end up in the water. Then suddenly through the window, on the other side of the carriage, I saw a wall of terracotta: a steep embankment of what I now know was bright red Devonshire earth. Soil had always been brown before. I was four years old and red was my favourite colour and I was thrilled!
Over the intervening years I have travelled a great deal with work, moved house often and struggled to settle in one place. Then twelve years ago, I finally found somewhere to call home. Tiverton is a small market town nestled in the hills between Exmoor and Dartmoor; the surrounding countryside is rolling green hills dotted with small farms and laced with rivers and streams. There are so many reasons to love life in Devon: the people, the pace of life, the seaside, the wildlife, the moorlands, the food and the night sky. We still have places here where nights are dark enough to see the Milky Way. But what I love most is the thing I saw when I held my mother’s hand on a hot train nearly 50 years ago - the earth. It’s red, and red is still my favourite colour.
ABOVE Residents at the Flicka Foundation
Charity Begins At Home Caroline is proud to be patron of two South West charities. The Flicka Foundation Horse and Donkey Sanctuary, near Penryn, Cornwall, currently has over 70 horses, ponies and donkeys in its care. “I am thrilled to be a patron of The Flicka Foundation. The hours of hard work and dedication from Judy, Laurie and the team are visible the moment one sees the healthy, happy animals inspirational!” says Caroline. Sea Sanctuary is a charity that offers individuals an opportunity to experience life afloat through a unique, residential programme supporting the needs of a variety of people of different ages, abilities and levels of wellness. www.seasanctuary.org.uk www.flickafoundation.org.uk
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15/03/2016 15:35
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