Issuu

WELCOME TO THREE MILE BEACH And to your very own guide to coastal living, culture grazing, wave chasing, slow mornings and spontaneous adventures. We’re delighted to have you here. Whether you reached us by winding coastal lane, scenic train, or pure instinct to be near the sea, you’ve arrived at a very special stretch of Cornwall. On the edge of Gwithian’s vast sands - a place where the air feels clearer, the light a little brighter, and the days somehow longer. Our hope is simple: that you settle in, breathe out, and feel wonderfully, wholeheartedly here. But we also know that holidays can come with decisions - lovely ones, granted, but decisions all the same. What shall we do today? Where should we go? What’s nearby? What if it rains? What if it doesn’t? Should we cook? Read? Wander? Surf? Do nothing at all?

To make life beautifully easy, we’ve put together this culture-packed companion: What To… a curated guide of ideas, inspiration and insider favourites - designed to help you get the very best from your time with us, whatever mood you arrive in. Inside, you’ll find places to wander when the sun shines, things to do when it doesn’t, gardens worth getting lost in, books to sink into, films and podcasts perfect for slow evenings, food experiences from vineyards to pasty-making, creative workshops, family days out, surf sessions, retro games, and the sort of recommendations locals whisper to each other over coffee. Of course, our team is always on hand if you need something specific or you simply feel like a nudge in the right direction. But for now, open the next page, follow whatever catches your eye, and let the holiday unfold exactly the way you want it to. Welcome to Three Mile Beach. Welcome to...

WHAT TO...

CONTENT Think of this as a cultural pick-and-mix for discerning travellers, part guidebook, part inspiration manual, part love-letter to this corner of Cornwall.

What to... VISIT What to... DO What to... READ What to... PLAY What to... BOOK What to... WATCH

6 8 12 20 24 26

What to... HEAR What to... DO FOR A DAY What to... MAKE What to... EAT What to... DRINK What to... LEAVE

29 31 33 34 36 38

WHAT TO VISIT Where Cornwall reveals its good side - tidal islands, secret gardens, sculptural landscapes and storied streets. Cornwall isn’t just beaches and pasties (though, let’s be honest, those are excellent reasons to be here. This coast is layered with stories smuggler myths, artistic legacies, maritime history, botanical experiments, and villages where the sea is practically a neighbour. These are the places that reward wandering, lingering, and allowing yourself to be gently surprised.

St Michael’s Mount (Marazion) A tidal island topped with a storybook castle - part history, part myth, all charm. Walk the cobbled causeway at low tide; take a boat when the sea reclaims it. Inside, wander the castle rooms and sub-tropical terraced gardens carved into the rock. 25 mins St Ives (via the scenic St Erth train) A postcard made real: blue water, sandy coves, galleries galore. Take the cliff-hugging train into town, then enjoy cafés, harbour life, Tate St Ives and the Porthmeor surf backdrop that inspired artists long before Instagram arrived. A magical blend of history and nature. 30 mins

The Lost Gardens of Heligan Heligan is a botanical mystery novel you can walk through - giant sculptures, mirror-like ponds and an unexpected "jungle" that feels a world away from the Cornish coast. Abandoned after WWI and rediscovered decades later, a magical blend of history and nature, featuring restored Victorian gardens. 60 mins

Glendurgan Garden A serene labyrinth of subtropical planting tumbling down to the Helford River. Lose yourself in the cherry laurel maze, then reward your effort with waterside calm in this tranquil National Trust garden. 50 mins

Eden Project Two vast biomes rise from a former clay pit, now one of Britain’s great ecological success stories. Tropical heat, Mediterranean calm, environmental storytelling and architecture with ambition makes it a perfect day out, whatever the weather. 60 mins

Trengwainton Gardens A sweeping, elegant garden designed for wandering, terraces, walled kitchen gardens, and magnolias so big they look like they’re trying to outdo one another. A quiet, romantic spot on Cornwall’s gentler days. 30 mins Godolphin House & Gardens A rare glimpse into a powerful Cornish family’s world. Ancient trees, rolling lawns and a house that feels stoically rooted in the landscape. History buffs adore it; walkers love the views. 20 mins National Maritime Museum Cornwall A world-class maritime museum and one of our favourite places to escape to when the weather decides to throw a Cornish tantrum. Expect beautifully curated exhibitions exploring how the sea has shaped culture, craft, travel, exploration and everyday life. Captivating for adults, genuinely engaging for kids and an easy half day very well spent. 50 mins

Kynance Cove Think turquoise seas, dramatic cliffs, and hidden caves. A stunning Cornish spot perfect for scenic walks, photos, and relaxed beach time. 45 mins Geevor Tin Mine An atmospheric descent into Cornwall’s mining heartland. Industrial history meets real underground tunnels – a glimpse into a world that helped shape the region. 40 mins

WHAT TO DO Your Cornish shortlist of surf breaks, creative escapes and rainy-day rescues. Whether you're here to fling yourself into Atlantic waves, nurture your inner potter, or finally learn guitar like you promised in lockdown, Cornwall is very willing to be your playground. Expect activities with character: rugged, salty, creative, and occasionally delicious.

OUT & ABOUT

St Ives Pottery Wheel-throw your way into the long tradition of St Ives ceramics. A coastal classic. 15 mins

Philleigh Way Cookery School Day courses in pasta, bread and seasonal cooking with a private chef. Expect flour, laughter and some enviable new skills. 60 mins

Porth Jewellery Sea-Glass Workshops Make your own piece of Cornwall to take home – sparkling sea glass turned into wearable memories. 45 mins ADVENTURE & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Surf Lessons with Global Boarders. Atlantic-facing waves + expert instructors = the lesson you’ll talk about all year. Rain? Irrelevant. You're in the water anyway. Grab a board, throw on a wetsuit, wipe out – it’s all part of the surf experience. Don’t forget to use your exclusive discount with the code THREEMILEBEACH

IN YOUR BEACH HOUSE

Hire a Guitar Whether you’re a seasoned strummer or bravely attempting your first chord, borrowing our Takamine guitar is the easiest way to add a little melody to your stay. Play by the log burner, practise on the deck as the sun dips, or gather your group for an impromptu sing-along. It’s the perfect companion for slow mornings, golden evenings, and anyone who suspects they might secretly be a folk singer at heart.

Pizza Party Create your very own the little pizzeria in Cornwall. With an Ooni oven delivered to your door and a hamper full of fresh ingredients, you’ll be spinning dough, crafting toppings, and serving up blistered, bubbling pizzas in minutes. It’s hands-on, delicious, and delightfully chaotic in the best possible way – perfect for families, groups, and anyone who believes the best holiday memories are made around good food and a hot oven.

Karaoke Machine Transform your beach house into a seaside stage – complete with millions of songs from YouTube and Spotify. Belt out classics, battle for high notes, or just laugh your way through the bits you definitely don’t remember. It’s pure, joyful chaos... and easily one of the most unexpectedly brilliant nights you’ll have here. Telescope Cornwall does darkness beautifully. With wide open skies and minimal light pollution, you’re staying in one of the best places in the UK to tilt your head back and feel pleasantly tiny. So borrow our telescope and turn your deck into a private observatory: spot shooting stars, or simply marvel at how many pinpricks of light you’ve forgotten exist when you’re not on holiday.

DOG FRIENDLY DAYS OUT Because adventures are better with four paws. Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens A dream for art lovers, plant people and dogs with a good nose for a wander. Stroll through sweeping subtropical gardens punctuated by large-scale sculptures, sky- frames and hidden installations - all set against views of St Michael’s Mount. Finish with lunch at Tremenheere Kitchen, where the cakes are dangerously good and muddy paws are positively welcomed outdoors. 20 mins

Trelissick Gardens & The Roseland Peninsula A National Trust gem overlooking the wide, shimmering Carrick Roads estuary. Ramble through woodland paths, open lawns and coastal viewpoints before hopping aboard the King Harry Ferry, a short, scenic chainferry crossing that feels like a tiny adventure in itself. Once on the Roseland, head straight for The Hidden Hut for a simple, perfect lunch with your dog snoozing contentedly at your feet. 40 mins

FAMILY FRIENDLY DAYS OUT There’s a quiet magic to family days in Cornwall, where sandy trails and secret nooks turn into stories you’ll keep. Here are some of our favourites, made for exploring at an easy pace. Paradise Park Bright, cheerful and brilliantly family-friendly that mixes Cornish charm with tropical-bird colour. Wander past flamingos and red pandas, meet parrots with big personalities, and then duck inside to the JungleBarn. It’s perfect for little adventurers, animal lovers and anyone who secretly enjoys a really good bird display. 15 mins Healeys Cyder Farm A joyful blend of tradition, taste and tractor rides. Wander through orchards, explore the cyderhouse and museum, meet the farm animals, and finish with a tasting of the iconic Rattler. It’s wholesome, delicious – the kind of place where everyone finds something to smile about. 25 mins Newlyn Filmhouse An intimate two-screen indie cinema opened in 2016 inside a converted granite fish cellar. A dream for film lovers, screening the best in world cinema, live events, blockbusters. 30 mins

WHAT TO READ Because every great holiday deserves a great book - or three. So we’ve created our exclusive Three Mile Beach Library: a thoughtfully curated treasure trove of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, travel escapes, Cornish legends, children’s classics and everything in between. It’s designed for slow mornings, stormy afternoons, and long, luxurious stretches of time when you can read purely because you want to. Here’s how it works - simple, relaxed, and refreshingly un-fussy: Browse like a bookshop, borrow like a friend. Take your time, wander the shelves at HQ , skim a few first pages, and choose whatever speaks to you - whether that’s a beach read, a Booker contender, or a graphic novel for a cosy afternoon indoors. Or see something from our list you fancy? Just ask us and we’ll bring the books to your door. Yes, really - your holiday has a concierge librarian. Found something you adore? Keep reading late into the night; no rush, no guilt. Return when you’re done - drop it back at HQ or send it home via housekeeping.

Kids welcome, curiosity encouraged. Little readers have their own shelf of favourites classics, adventures, animals, magic - ready for bedtime stories or quiet sofa moments. Want something beautifully written? Something funny? Something short? Something you’ll finish in one sitting? Tell us your mood and we’ll suggest just the thing. We love a reading challenge. Take part in the Book Exchange. If you arrive with a novel you’ve just finished (or are ready to part with), leave it behind on the book-exchange shelf and pick up something new. It’s holiday serendipity: stories passing between guests like friendly postcards

THRILLER

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy – Douglas Adams A human hitchhikes through space, facing absurd adventures and cosmic absurdities.

The Waves 1931 - Virginia Woolf Six friends reflect on life, identity, and time through interwoven, poetic monologues. Rebecca - Daphne du Maurier A young bride uncovers dark secrets surrounding her husband’s first wife, Rebecca. Gone Girl - Gillian Flynn A wife’s mysterious disappearance unravels dark secrets in her marriage.

HORROR Blackwater The Flood – Michael McDowell A mysterious woman survives a deadly flood, unleashing dark secrets in a Southern town. The Shining – Stephen King A family stays in an isolated hotel where a young boy’s psychic powers reveal terrifying forces. American Psycho – Bret Easton Ellis A wealthy New York banker hides a violent, psychopathic double life beneath his polished facade.

ROMANCE Normal People - Sally Rooney Two Irish teens navigate love, friendship, and self-discovery over years. One Day - David Nicholls Two friends’ lives intertwine over decades, revealing love, loss, and change. Silk - Alessandro Baricco A French silkworm merchant embarks on a mysterious journey to Japan, discovering love and obsession.

FANTASY Legends and Lattes – Travis Baldree An orc leaves adventuring to open a cosy coffee shop, finding friendship and magic. Lord Of The Rings – J. R. R. Tolkein A hobbit must destroy a powerful ring to save Middle-earth from darkness. Among The Burning Flowers – Samantha Shannon A princess, Marosa, must confront dragons and rising chaos to save her kingdom.

SCIENCE FICTION Earthsea – Ursula Le Guin A young wizard faces his own shadow while mastering magic across Earthsea. Monk and Robot – Becky Chambers A tea monk and a robot explore life’s meaning in a post-human world.

GRAPHIC NOVELS & COMICS Watchman – Alan Moore A complex superhero tale exploring morality, power, and society’s dark undercurrents. Moomin – Tove Jansson Adorable trolls and friends embark on whimsical adventures, exploring friendship and family. The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and the Horse – Charlie Mackesy A heart-warming tale of friendship and life lessons through the journey of four unlikely companions.

A Good Girls Guide To Murder – Holly Jackson A teen investigates a reopened murder case, uncovering dark secrets in her town. Pigeon English – Stephen Kelman A young Ghanaian boy navigates life and violence in London, blending innocence with harsh reality.

MYSTERY Where the Crawdads Sing – Delia Owens A solitary girl grows up in marshes, facing love, loss, and a mysterious murder. The Thursday Murder Club – Richard Osman Four retirees meet weekly to solve cold cases, but a real murder tests their skills. The Talented Mr Ripley – Patricia Highsmith A charming young man deceives and kills to assume a wealthy friend’s identity.

CHILDREN Quick Quack Quentin – Kes Gray A playful, rhyming story about a mischievous duck causing chaos and fun on the farm. The Last Bear – Hannah Gold A young girl befriends the last polar bear, discovering courage, hope, and the Arctic’s plight. Stig of the Dump – Clive King A boy discovers a mysterious caveman living in a chalk pit, sparking adventures and friendship.

YOUNG ADULT The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole – Sue Townsend A teenage boy records his awkward adolescence, family drama, and humorous daily life in a diary.

HISTORICAL FICTION

To Brave Every Danger – Judith Cooke The true story of Grace Darling, the courageous lighthouse keeper’s daughter who became a heroine.

Jamaica Inn – Daphne du Maurier A young woman uncovers ominous secrets while living at the isolated Jamaica Inn on Bodmin Moor. To The Lighthouse – Virginia Woolf A family reflects on time, memory, and change during visits to a remote lighthouse. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin – Louis de Bernières Love and music bloom on a Greek island during WWII amid war and loss.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Sapians – Yuval Noah Harari A sweeping history of humanity, from evolution to modern society and culture. The Theory of Everything Else – Dan Schreiber A witty dive into bizarre beliefs, odd phenomena, and humanity’s curious quirks. A (Very) Short History of Life on Earth – Henry Gee A concise journey through life’s evolution, from single cells to complex organisms

POETRY The Poetry Pharmacy – William Sieghart A collection of poems offering comfort, insight, and healing for life’s challenges. Trains & Buttered Toast – John Betjeman A charming collection of essays celebrating trains, travel, and the simple joys of life. Dwell – Simon Armitage A poetic exploration of home, belonging, and the ordinary moments that shape our lives. LOCAL AREA St Ives Bay Revisited – St Ives Archive A pictorial history of St Ives Bay, revisiting its people, places, and coastal heritage. Cornwall, a History – Philip Payton A rich journey through Cornwall’s unique history, culture, and enduring identity.

FOOD & COOKING

ART & DESIGN

Good Comfort – Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall Healthy, hearty twists on classic comfort dishes using wholesome, flavourful ingredients. Sea & Shore – Emily Scott Seasonal Cornish recipes blend coastal flavours with personal stories and memories. Plenty – Ottolenghi A vibrant cookbook celebrating vegetableforward recipes full of flavour and creativity. Persiana – Sabrina Ghayour A vibrant collection of modern Middle Eastern recipes bursting with flavour and colour.

Cabin Porn – Zach Klein A visual celebration of cabins worldwide, inspiring simplicity, nature, and cozy living. A Year Unfolding – Angela Harding Seasonal landscapes and reflections through Angela Harding’s art and printmaking. Kurt Jackson's Sea Stunning artwork capturing the sea’s moods, light, and coastal landscapes by Kurt Jackson. The Sculptor in the Studio – Sophie Bowness A behind-the-scenes look at Hepworth’s creative process through studio photos, tools, and writings.

TRAVEL

SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Epic Surf Breaks of the World – Lonely Planet A guide to the world’s best surfing spots, with tips, locations, and travel insights. Around the World in 80 Trains – Monisha Rajesh A journey across continents by train, exploring cultures, landscapes, and travel adventures. Unforgettable Places to See Before You Die – Steve Davey A travel guide showcasing must-visit destinations and iconic sights around the world.

The Untethered Soul – Michael Singer Explores consciousness and inner freedom, guiding readers to release limiting thoughts and live fully. Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking – Malcolm Gladwell Examines how we make quick decisions, revealing the surprising power of intuition and first impressions.. Waking Up – Sam Harris Explores mindfulness, meditation, and spirituality from a secular, scientific perspective. The Artists Way – Julia Cameron A practical guide to rediscovering creativity through daily exercises and self-reflection.

BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR Penguin Lessons – Tom Mitchell A teacher rescues a penguin, forming a bond that brings joy and life lessons. Born A Crime – Trevor Noah Trevor Noah recounts his childhood in apartheid South Africa, blending humor with harsh realities. And Away... - Bob Mortimer Bob Mortimer shares his life, comedy career, and personal challenges with humor and heart. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Words for Life – Susie Dent A celebration of language, exploring words, their origins, meanings, and quirky histories. The Night Sky Almanac – Radmila Topalovic A monthly guide to celestial events, stargazing tips, and maps for all hemispheres. A Year of Living Curiously – Beth Coates A journey exploring life with curiosity, wonder, and mindful adventures every day.

The Humming Bird – Sandro Veronesi An ophthalmologist navigates love, loss, and family, reflecting on life’s twists and fate. Before The Coffee Gets Cold – Toshikazu Kawaguchi Visitors to a Tokyo café can time-travel, but only briefly, confronting love, loss, and regret. HISTORY Humankind – Rutger Bregman Explores the innate goodness of humans, challenging cynical views of human nature and society. Saints and Sinners – Nicholas St Aubyn A millennium-spanning family history, revealing Cornwall roots, love, and survival.

TRANSLATIONS Butter – Asako Yuzuki A journalist investigates a female poisoner, uncovering food, trauma, and societal pressures.

WHAT TO PLAY Some nights call for hot tubs and novels. Others call for retro gaming glory, questionable 90s sound effects, competitive spirit, and the triumphant cry of “just ONE more level…” Retro consoles, pixel nostalgia, competitive karaoke and enough classic chaos to turn a quiet evening into a full-blown tournament. Our collection of hireable board games, consoles and tech toys is here to flip your beach house into a mini arcade - no coins required, just enthusiasm and maybe a little friendly rivalry.

ATARI 50 GameStation Pro Over 200 Atari classics packed into a single sleek console, a treasure chest of vintage gaming. Perfect for anyone who believes gaming peaked sometime around 1983, or who simply enjoys pixelated perfection and delightfully simple chaos. Game over! We think not.

Karaoke (iKarao Break X2) Connect to YouTube or Spotify via Wi-Fi and unlock over 10 million songs, from power ballads to guilty pleasures and everything in between. Choose your anthem, choose someone else's, warm up your vocal cords, and let rip.

SNES (Super Nintendo Entertainment System) A true 90s icon. Preloaded with 21 stone-cold classics including: Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Super Mario Kart, Super Metroid & F-ZERO It’s nostalgia you can hold in your hands, ideal for settling once and for all who in the family is the real Mario Kart champion. Gamelab Handheld Console 15,000+ games in your pocket. Yes, you read that correctly. It’s like carrying your childhood, your cousin’s childhood, and several decades of arcade history in one tiny device. Pair two consoles for head-to-head racing, button-bashing battles, or chaotic sibling rivalry. Wiho you make it to the top of the leaderboard?

Games at Three Mile Beach are a bit of a tradition — think fireside rivalry, family championships and 90s nostalgia. You’ll find a selection of board games in a chest or inside your TV media unit so play to your hearts content. Sometimes bits and pieces go missing from these sets and it’s not practical for our housekeeping team to count every piece. If you notice something is missing please let us know and we’ll do our best to replace it. Let’s Feed the Very Hungry Caterpillar A charming race to feed a famously peckish caterpillar — gentle, colourful fun for little hands. (Ages 3+)

Playing Cards* Endless possibilities in one neat deck - from quiet patience to mischievous snap battles. (Ages 3+)

Dobble* A fast, joyful spot-it game that proves children’s eyes are, quite unfairly, sharper than adults’. (Ages 3+)

Pop-Up Pirate! Slip in a sword and hope for the best - a tiny barrel of suspenseful giggles. (Ages 4+) Articulate for Kids Rapid-fire describing without using the word itself — ideal for budding chatterboxes. (Ages 6+)

Jenga* Steady hands, deep breaths and inevitable collapse - chaos, but classy. (Ages 6+)

Guess Who The classic flip-down mystery: moustache? glasses? a suspicious hat? Ask wisely. (Ages 6+) Connect 4 Simple, strategic, and always satisfying - the original “just one more round” game. (Ages 6+) UNO* Colour-matching mayhem where revenge is spelt U-N-O. (Ages 7+)

Rummikub Part puzzle, part strategy, part “how did you place all your tiles already?” (Ages 7+) Trivial Pursuit – Family Edition A trivia duel designed so kids actually have a chance of beating the grown-ups. (Ages 8+) Cluedo A cosy whodunnit where the culprit is always someone suspicious with a candlestick. (Ages 8+) Monopoly Deal* The quicker, sharper cousin of classic Monopoly - same drama, fewer hours. (Ages 8+)

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza* A rapid card game where players chant and slap matching cards to win. (Ages 8+) * Games available in the Beach Shacks

Pass The Pigs* Players roll pig-shaped dice and score points based on the positions in which the pigs land. (Ages 7+)

HQ GAMES LIBRARY Cribbage Chess Checkers Herd Mentality Twister Pictionary Stratego Risk Backgammon Dominoes String Puck

Monopoly The iconic long-game of fortunes made, alliances broken, and property prowess. (Ages 10+) Scrabble Word-craft, wit, and the eternal fight for that one perfect triple word score. (Ages 10+)

WHAT TO BOOK Step inside RELAX, your private pocket of calm tucked just behind HQ: serene, soft-lit and only a stone’s throw from the golden sands. It’s the place to step away from the everyday and sink into something soothing, whether you’re recharging after riding the waves or simply embracing the art of doing absolutely nothing. Our treatment menu is thoughtfully curated to restore both body and mind. To book your moment of calm, contact HQ and we’ll take care of the rest. Because unwinding isn’t an indulgence. It’s part of the plan.

WHAT TO WATCH Coastal dramas, artistic deep-dives, windswept documentaries and comfort TV, Cornwall always delivers on screen. Whether you’re winding down after a day in the surf or embracing an afternoon with a blanket and a brew, this collection of Cornwall flavoured viewing has something for every mood. Think of it as your personal TV review column curated for curious minds, culture lovers and coast-obsessed travellers.

FILM

The Last Lightkeepers (2020) A gentle, lyrical portrait of those who tended Britain’s rugged lighthouses meditative, nostalgic and quietly enthralling. Rated PG

Bait (2019) A raw, hand-processed masterpiece about gentrification in a Cornish fishing village which is bold, unsettling and utterly unforgettable. Rated 15 The Lighthouse (2019) A haunting psychological storm of folklore, madness and mermaid myths, mesmerising, claustrophobic and beautifully strange. Rated 15 Fisherman’s Friends (2019) A warm, big-hearted crowd-pleaser about a real-life sea shanty group, feel-good Cornwall with plenty of charm and cheer. Rated 12 The Salt Path (2024) A powerful adaptation of Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir, soulful, windswept and steeped in the healing beauty of the South West Coast Path. Rated 12A Jamaica Inn (1939) Daphne du Maurier’s smuggling thriller brought to the screen with gothic flair, atmospheric, moody and delightfully oldschool. Rated PG

Rick Stein’s Cornwall - BBC2, BBC iPlayer Cornwall through the eyes (and appetite) of Rick Stein: warm, charming, and reliably mouth-watering. Padstow is about an hour away or just a couple of buttons.

Devon and Cornwall Channel 4 A soothing portrait of life in the Southwest, packed with big skies, bigger seas and the quietly heroic people who call this coastline home.

The Art of Cornwall - BBC Four, YouTube A smart, evocative look at the county’s creative soul, from painters to potters, with landscapes that practically compose themselves.

Barbara Hepworth: Freedom and Form FT Arts Life, YouTube A thoughtful, elegant look at the sculptor who shaped St Ives’ artistic legacy insightful, reflective, and perfect for art lovers.

Art in Nature with Dr James Fox - BBC Four, BBC iPlayer A poetic journey into how landscapes spark creativity. Cornwall’s scenery steals every scene.

Coast - BBC2, BBC iPlayer The classic coastal documentary series: sweeping aerials, fascinating history, and enough trivia to impress new friends on walks.

Saving Lives at Sea - BBC2, BBC iPlayer The RNLI’s most gripping rescues, raw and unfiltered. Heart-in-mouth viewing with huge respect baked in. Hi-five our local hero’s next time you see them on the beach.

Cornwall with Simon Reeve - BBC2, BBC iPlayer Reeve’s trademark curiosity and compassion make this a deeper, more human portrait of Cornwall makes it essential viewing.

A History of Art in 3 Colours - BBC Four, YouTube A clever, visually rich series exploring colour’s influence on art, one for the aesthetically curious.

Cornwall: This Fishing Life - BBC, YouTube A beautifully honest series about the people who work the water. Atmospheric, emotional and mesmerisingly real.

WHAT TO HEAR Podcasts for walkers, wanderers, stargazers, sea-watchers and anyone who likes their holidays with a side of curiosity. Cornwall is made for listening - crashing waves, gull chatter, wind in the dunes. But when you want something with words, wisdom or wonder, these podcasts are the perfect audio companions to your stay. 29

PODCASTS

You're Dead To Me - BBC Sounds A historian, a comedian and a topic you didn't realise you wanted to know about funny, clever and brilliantly accessible.

The Wild Cornwall Podcast cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk A gentle wander through Cornwall’s natural world - wildlife stories, conservation insight and soothing slices of the coast.

The Infinite Monkey Cage - BBC Sounds Science made joyful, ridiculous and surprisingly enlightening, thanks to Brian Cox and Robin Ince’s glorious nerd energy.

Hidden Cornwall: Myths & Legends - BBC Sounds A playful invitation into Cornwall’s folklore smugglers, spirits, sea monsters and old tales told with modern charm.

Travel Diaries - Holly Rubenstein Celebrities and explorers share the journeys that shaped them - wanderlust guaranteed.

BBC Earth - BBC Sounds Nature storytelling at its finest - smart, surprising and beautifully produced, perfect for coastal walks.

Nature Therapy - Various Platforms Short, immersive soundscapes recorded across the UK - perfect for unwinding after a day in the surf.

Houston, We Have a Podcast - NASA Space exploration explained with clarity, humour and big-sky thinking - ideal for stargazing nights on the dunes.

99% Invisible - Radiotopia Design, places and ideas hiding in plain sight — curious, clever and quietly addictive.

The Rest Is History - Global Sharp, witty and addictive, history’s biggest stories told with personality, intelligence and excellent banter.

Outlandish - BBC Sounds Adventures from global wildernesses thoughtful, outdoorsy storytelling for nature lovers.

WHAT TO DO FOR A DAY We’ve sketched out a handful of perfect Cornish days, part inspiration, part insider knowledge, all tried-and-tested by us. Think of them as your ready-made adventures; simply pick one and head out.

DAY OUT 1: ST IVES: ART, LIGHT & SEAFOOD

Evening: Seafood & a Sunset Book ahead for Porthminster Café, where local fish meets Asian-Mediterranean twists, or go classic with The Mermaid for fish and chips. Finish with a slow amble along the harbour as the working boats settle in for the night.

A day for art lovers, coffee sippers and coastal wanderers. Morning: Tate St Ives & Porthmeor Coffee Hop on the scenic St Erth–St Ives train (worth it for the views alone) and stroll straight to Tate St Ives, where Cornwall’s world-famous artistic light spills across exhibitions of modern coastal art. Afterward, grab a flat white at Porthmeor Beach Café and watch surfers warm up below. Afternoon: Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden Wander through Hepworth’s studio exactly as she left it — tools, plinths, half-finished pieces — and step into her tranquil sculpture garden where forms meet foliage in beautifully quiet conversation.

DAY OUT 2: MARAZION & ST MICHAEL’S MOUNT: MYTHS, WALKS & WATER VIEWS

DAY OUT 3: FALMOUTH: GARDENS, MARITIME HISTORY & A DOSE OF CULTURE

A day steeped in heritage, gardens and coast-to-castle views.

For the curious, the garden lovers, and the museum wanderers.

Morning: Cross to St Michael’s Mount Time the tides and walk the ancient granite causeway across the bay. Explore the mount’s rambling castle rooms, Georgian additions and terraced subtropical gardens — all with sweeping views across Mounts Bay.

Morning: Trebah or Glendurgan Gardens Choose between two icons of the Helford River valley. Trebah offers winding jungle-like canopies and a private beach. Glendurgan delights with its laurel maze and meandering paths that slip down to the sleepy river.

Afternoon: Marazion Lunch & Beach Walk Return to The Godolphin for lunch overlooking the water — their seafood chowder is a quiet triumph, then take a gentle beach walk toward Long Rock where the view opens and the sky feels enormous.

Afternoon: National Maritime Museum Head into Falmouth for the Maritime Museum, where exhibitions blend naval history, boat-building craft and cultural storytelling. Perfect for families and curious adults alike. Lunch Suggestions: Gylly Beach Café, sunlit, seafront, reliably excellent. The Verdant Seafood Bar, a small but mighty gem with fresh, bright dishes.

Evening: Newlyn Filmhouse As the light softens, drive 10 minutes into Newlyn for an early dinner at Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar, then end with an indie screening at Newlyn Filmhouse, one of Cornwall’s most stylishly understated cinemas.

Evening: Beers & Brews Stay for a pint at Hand Beer Bar or Verdant Taproom, where the local brewing scene shines, then return to Gwithian for a quiet evening on the dunes.

WHAT TO MAKE FOOD For slow afternoons, hungry groups and the irresistible joy of cooking something properly Cornish. There’s something wonderfully grounding about cooking by the coast. Maybe it’s the sea air, maybe it’s the slower pace or maybe it’s simply that Cornwall has a habit of inspiring the kind of meals that bring everyone together. In this section, we’ve gathered a couple of recipes that feel unmistakably Cornish: one iconic, one deeply comforting. Think of them as edible souvenirs, simple, hearty, and perfect for enjoying around your beach house table after a day in the wind and waves. Roll up your sleeves, warm the oven, and let the holiday unfold deliciously.

CORNISH PASTIES Serve hot, ideally outside, ideally with the sound of waves somewhere in the distance. INGREDIENTS (MAKES 6 PASTIES)

METHOD

For shortcrust pastry: 500g strong bread flour 120g lard 125g Cornish butter 1 tsp salt 175ml cold water

1.Add the salt to the flour in a large mixing bowl. Rub the two types of fat lightly into flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add water, bring the mixture together and knead until the pastry becomes elastic. 2.Cover with cling film and leave to rest for 3 hours in the fridge.

For the filling 400g good quality beef skirt, cut into cubes 300g potato 150g swede 150g onion Beaten egg or milk to glaze

3.Roll out the pastry and cut into circles approx. 20cm diameter. A side plate is an ideal size to use as a guide. 4.Layer the vegetables and meat on top of the pastry, adding plenty of seasoning as you go.

*All vegetables peeled & sliced

5.Bring the pastry around and crimp the edges together. 6.Glaze with beaten egg or milk. 7.Bake at 170 degrees C (fan oven) for about 50 – 55 minutes until golden.

CORNISH BROTH A simple, rustic soup that tastes like log burners, rosy cheeks and long coastal hikes. A staple across the county, this is the kind of soup that warms you right through - full of vegetables, pearl barley and soft chunks of beef. It’s unfussy, nourishing and exactly what you want after walking Gwithian’s three miles in a stiff sea breeze. INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4-6)

METHOD

300g diced beef (stewing cuts work beautifully) 1 large onion, chopped 2 carrots, diced 2 potatoes, diced 1 leek, sliced 1 parsnip, diced 100g pearl barley, rinsed 1.5 litres beef or vegetable stock 1 bay leaf Fresh parsley, chopped Salt & pepper

1.Brown the beef in a little oil for flavour, then set aside. 2.Soften the vegetables in the same pot until fragrant 3.Add barley, beef, stock and bay leaf, bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 1–1.5 hours until everything is tender and cosy. 4.Season well and finish with chopped parsley. Serve with a hunk of crusty bread and the satisfaction of having made something deeply, comfortingly Cornish.

WHAT TO MAKE DRINK A pair of house favourites, mixed, shaken and joyfully approved by Three Mile Beach’s founders, Jo & Craig. Every house deserves its own signature sundowner, and these two have become something of a tradition around here. Jo leans toward bright, zingy tequila cocktails, the kind that kick-start an evening with sunshine-in-a-glass energy. Craig, unsurprisingly, keeps things proudly local, favouring Tarquin’s Cornish Gin for something effortlessly smooth and coastal. Here are their go-to drinks, you’ve got the gear in the cocktail makers cabinet, they’re simple to make, dangerously drinkable, and perfect for golden-hour sipping on your deck.

JO’S TEQUILA SUNSET SOUR

CRAIG’S TARQUIN’S COASTAL NEGRONI

Fresh, zesty and just the right amount of holiday mischief.

Classic, confident and distinctly Cornish, thanks to the hit of local gin.

INGREDIENTS

50ml tequila (blanco works best) 25ml fresh lime juice 20ml grapefruit juice 15ml agave syrup Dash of soda A sliver of grapefruit or lime wheel (to garnish)

30ml Tarquin’s Cornish Dry Gin 30ml sweet vermouth 30ml Campari Orange peel for garnish

METHOD

1.Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with plenty of ice.

METHOD

1.Shake tequila, citrus juices and agave with ice until frosty.

2.Stir until perfectly chilled and silky.

2.Strain into a chilled short glass over fresh ice.

3.Strain into a rocks glass over a single large ice cube.

3.Add a tiny splash of soda.

4.Twist an orange peel over the top and drop it in.

4.Garnish with grapefruit or lime, whichever feels more like your mood.

Why Craig swears by it: It’s balanced, grown-up and quietly coastal, a classic elevated by a gin made just down the road.

Why Jo loves it: It’s bright, refreshing, and feels like the first warm ray of sunshine, even on a day when Cornwall’s playing hard to get.

WHAT TO LEAVE Your stories, thoughts, suggestions and a little piece of your stay. Before you pack up the last of the beach sand and head home, we’d love it if you left something behind. Not shells or souvenirs, but your experience. A few words, a review, a note about something you discovered, or even a small thought on how we could make things better next time. Every stay at Three Mile Beach teaches us something new, and your feedback helps us keep this place evolving, more joyful, more thoughtful, more you. Whether it’s a glowing review, a gentle nudge, a favourite walk, a café you adored, or something in this guide you think we should add, update or rewrite, we want to hear it. Think of it as adding your thread to the tapestry of guests who’ve stayed before you. Because here at Three Mile Beach, we’re always trying to go that little bit further… that tiny bit brighter… that extra mile. And your words help guide the way. And if you’d like to stay connected long after your holiday glow fades, follow us on Instagram for stories from the dunes, behind-the-scenes moments and a steady stream of coastal goodness.