Destination Guide 2018
With the end of the summer season well in sight, here at Celtic & Co., we thought it’d be a great time to pull together a destination guide. This list includes some of our favourite places to visit when exploring our home county, and with the holidays soon ending, it could be the prime time to avoid crowds and catch the last few rays of this summer’s sun.
#1 The Eden Project
First on our list is the Eden Project. If you can book the day before your visit, you can take advantage of their ‘Advance Pass’ scheme with higher donations to their charity through gift aid and unlimited visits for 1 year. Located on an old China clay pit, the area was transformed in the year 2000 into an educational world, designed to inspire a better future. At this incredible location, you will find biomes supporting rain forest environments, tropical foliage and breath-taking outdoor gardens. This very special venue also houses conferences, family events and music concerts year-round. The Eden Project truly offers something for all the family.
#2 The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Another remarkable Cornish destination is The Lost Gardens of Heligan, a location which was hidden by brambles and ivy for years after the demise of its residents and workforce during WW1. Whilst the property was divided and sold, the gardens were left neglected until one family discovered a room, hidden under the debris and so the restoration began to bring the gardens back to life. With the aim of respecting nature and enhancing natural habitats, the gardens have been replenished to one of natural wonder, offering a unique and fun-filled day out for all the family.
#3 Polzeath
Next up is one of the more underrated destinations, the seaside town of Polzeath in North Cornwall. Start your day with a coffee and cake at Tubestation, a converted church designed to serve the local community by offering a combination of faith, arts and education – this truly extraordinary project is unique to its location. Afterwards, head down to the sand and shingle beach where you can find George's Surf School, an ISA centre of excellence which ranks in the top 10 in the world! After an exhilarating day outdoors, head off the beach to the Mowhay Café for dinner, here you will find frequently updated menus depending on the availability of local meat and garden produce. Finish your day at the Rum Bar, tucked away just off the beach. Let Polzeath transport you onto a Caribbean pirate ship and complete your evening in style with the finest locally sourced rum in hand.
#4 Wheal Coates - St Agnes
For the adventurers amongst us, spend a day exploring the rugged coastal paths of Wheal Coates and discover the tin mining walk near St Agnes. This is a former tin mine located high on the cliff top which is now maintained by the National Trust. Along with this ‘moderate’ walk, you will find mine shafts, guarded by grids and a viewpoint to admire the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, you can also view the neighbouring bays of Chapel Porth and Porthtowan nestled along the coastline. The ruins of Wheal Coates are an iconic Cornish landmark and the location of one of our photo shoots not too long ago. If an energising stroll around one of the northern coast's most tranquil locations is what you had in mind, we would certainly recommend a visit during a sunny spell.
#5 Bedruthan Steps
Finally, to complete our top 5 destinations to visit before winter sets in, is Bedruthan Steps. This coastal spot between Newquay and Padstow includes a beach with stacks of rocks towering high above the coastline, these rocks are a result of years of erosion from the sea which has left them separated from the mainland. Legend has it that these were the stepping stones for the giant of Bedruthan, looking for a shortcut whilst crossing the bay. In this area you will also find a steep set of steps, descending onto the beach from rugged cliff paths alongside the mines of Carnewas, once a thriving iron, copper and lead mine during the 19th century.
