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Why not make your holiday extra special and enjoy a Westcountry
classic car break?
Picture the scene; a classic British sportscar; touring unspoilt
countryside; an open road! No this is not a flashback to the
sixties but a new opportunity for visitors to enjoy a nostalgic
motoring break.
Enjoy touring the many attractions and areas of outstanding
natural beauty throughout the region and explore the countryside
and coastline of Devon & Cornwall. Take one geographical
area at a time and spend a day or two getting to know the
area. There is enough to keep you coming back year after year!
Enjoy discovering the hidden corners and qualities of the
Westcountry in the nostalgic company of a classic car. There
are so many places worth visiting but here are just a few
of the many alternatives for you to consider. For further
details on the following tours please visit www.cornwallclassiccarhire.co.uk
or telephone Cornwall Classic Car Hire on 0845 458 1108 (local
rate) or +44 (0)1840 230090 for overseas enquiries, and they
will be delighted to arrange your stay and produce your individualised
holiday pack. Detailed touring routes and information packs
are available. In the meantime - get a flavour of Westcountry
classic car breaks and enjoy an insight into the area’s
treasures.
Dartmoor Tour
Start the tour by spending a while wandering around Tavistock.
This delightful market town, whose origins date back as far
as the Saxons, has a wealth of individual specialist shops
and can claim to be the home of the cream tea. Visitors to
the Abbey in mediaeval times were served this Westcountry
specialty - now part of any visitors enjoyment of the area.
Off the main streets are narrower side-streets featuring small
bakers, book shops, antique shops and galleries. Perhaps stroll
the Abbey ruins or the banks of the lovely River Tavy past
the weir and on into the meadows. Before leaving say hello
to Sir Francis Drake - or at least his bronze statue. Famous
son of the town -it stands close to his birthplace. Head out
of Tavistock south to Yelverton and take a step back in time
by visiting Buckland Abbey. Hidden away in its own secluded
valley lies evidence of some 700 years existence. Medieval
monks established a Cistercian monastery at the site which
later was converted into a dwelling by Sir Richard Grenville.
However, you have just met Buckland Abbey’s most famous
resident in Tavistock - Sir Francis Drake lived here during
the Armada period. With exhibitions, fully furnished rooms
and ancient outbuildings, the Abbey provides a fascinating
insight into the lives of those that once lived there.
Leave Buckland Abbey and head onto Dartmoor towards Princetown.
This 365 square mile, bleak granite upland is designated National
parkland with its characteristic coarse, granite tors and
large areas of isolated peat covered with purple gorse and
heather. It is wild and beautiful providing rough grazing
for the semi-wild Dartmoor ponies, also symbolic of this handsome
area. Dartmoor provides many beautiful attractions and walks
but respect must also be given to this natural, untamed moorland.
Rapidly changing weather conditions, frequent low cloud and
heavy rain and fog can take the unwary by surprise. It is
no wonder Conan Doyle chose Dartmoor as the perfect setting
for ‘The Hounds of the Baskervilles’ nor the high
security prison at Princetown was so built. The inhospitable
landscape surely adds to its effectiveness. However, the untamed
nature of the moor is its very attraction. It is an area largely
unchanged in centuries of existence……. Perhaps out
of the car you can sample the miles of dramatic footpaths
and enjoy walking some of the scenery taking in the distant
hills and valleys. If going North, beware of the Ministry
of Defence training area where live ammunition is used in
the military exercises - so observe all warning signs!
Pass the prison on your left, a grey, austerely imposing
sight built in 1806 that gave rise to the town and head for
Two Bridges. Take a lunch stop at The Two Bridges Hotel and
enjoy fine food and, for passengers, their specialty ale.
Perhaps make a reservation for dinner this evening and enjoy
cuisine from their award winning chef. Highly recommended.
Continue your tour east, enjoying the fine moorland views
to Dartmeet and see the medieval stone clapper bridge and
river set against a wooded, glade. Take time out and perhaps
have a picnic or stroll along the riverbank and take the compulsory
commemorative photo of your companion on the clapper bridge.
Back in the car, head for Widecombe-in-the-Moor via pretty
villages such as Ponsworthy and prepare for a fantastic panoramic
view as you come down the hill towards the well-known beauty
spot. Park up in one of the areas set aside for taking in
the view and, just look…..! Dependent on cloud cover
you will see the most spectacular scene left to right up an
enchanting valley with Widecombe nestling in the centre. Perhaps
take a stroll to one of the rocky, outcrops just off the road
and climb up to gain an even better vantage point.
Once back in the car, suitably inspired, drive down the steep
hill into the village and park up, meet the ponies that invariably
munch on the grass outside the church and have a wander around
the many gift shops. Enjoy reading about Tom Pearce and the
old grey mare and explore the church and graveyard, maybe
seeking of one of the characters from the song. Widecombe
has several excellent tea shops to enjoy a cream tea and a
cake if the fresh air has restored your appetite again. Head
out of Widecombe in the direction of Haytor - one of the most
imposing tors on the moor. Climb the tor and again marvel
at the views. Stone has been quarried from Dartmoor with the
biggest venues being Haytor and Foggintor (where stone for
Nelson’s column was quarried) but today use it as a wonderful
vantage point for viewing the natural beauty of your surroundings.
Having descended from Haytor find your way to Becky Falls
where beautiful cascading water falls will bring a different
insight into Dartmoor. Enjoy the woodland walks and wildlife
discovery trail. Perhaps a coffee is what your’e after
- enjoy refreshment at the Falls before heading off again
North.
Before returning to your accommodation or heading for the
venue of your evening meal try to fit in a visit to Castle
Drogo. Built by Indian tea baron Julius Drewe’s between
1910 and 1930, Castle Drogo was his dream home and is a remarkable
folly and example of work by Sir Edward Lutyens. This great
country house stands more than 900 feet overlooking the River
Teign with a stunning view of Dartmoor. Enjoy walking the
terraced garden, woodland spring garden and herbaceous borders
before plotting your route back across beautiful moorland
having experience a delightful day on Dartmoor.
Totnes, Dartmouth & The English Riviera
Start this tour in Totnes, the quaint, slightly bohemian
town between Dartmoor and Paignton on the coast. Park up at
the river car park and enjoy the walk up through the town
taking in several book and antique shops on the way. Pause
half way up Fore Street to look up at the archway building
that connects opposite sides of the road - now completely
restored after fire. If you have come on a Friday enjoy the
excellent antique and collectors market in the square at the
top of Totnes before bearing right to visit the castle. Totnes
castle is one of the best surviving examples of a Norman motte
and bailey construction and holds commanding views over Totnes,
the River Dart and the surrounding area.
Make your way back down to the car, perhaps stopping for
a coffee or cream tea on the way. Once back at the car - take
a few minutes to find out about the river trips along the
beautiful Dart estuary from Totnes to Dartmouth - highly recommended
for another day.
Leave Totnes and head south via Harbertonford and Halwell
and then east to Dartmouth. Enjoy the good country roads and
scenery arriving at Dartmouth by descending the long, steep
hill passed the Royal Naval College to this historic port.
Once important for export of cloth and for trade with Newfoundland
Dartmouth has been closely shaped by the maritime influence.
Enjoy exploring the narrow streets and alleyways, take time
to window shop several antique shops and look out for The
Butterwalk in Duke Street dating from 1635-40 with its elaborate
carved timbers and the 1830s Old Market House.
Have a relaxing stroll along the front and witness the many
boats moored in the estuary between Dartmouth and Kingswear
opposite. Make sure you seek out Bayards Cove Fort and the
line of ‘period’ houses used for filming in the
1970’s drama The Onedin Line. The fort was built in 1510
to protect the harbour entrance, showing the long-running
strategic importance of Dartmouth as a naval asset. More information
can be found with regard this close connection by visiting
the Dartmouth museum where you can gain a closer insight into
this historic port. Take the car ferry across from Dartmouth
to Kingswear and head North to Brixham. This popular, small
fishing port with narrow streets is still an important trawler
port and busy fish market. In 1850 it was described as the
‘largest fishery in England’. Enjoy exploring the
quay and visit The Golden Hind - replica of Sir Francis Drake’s
ship on which he sailed around the world in 1577-80.
Whilst perusing Brixham see if you can find the statue on
the Strand commemorating William Orange’s landing here
in 1688 before heading North to Paignton.
Perhaps visit Oldham Mansion which was begun by Isaac Singer
(founder of the famous sewing machine company) in 1875 in
the style of the Palace of Versailles. Enjoy the 17 acres
of landscaped gardens or maybe seeking out the Paignton &
Dartmouth Steam Railway is more your thing. This service runs
along the spectacular Torbay coast through the wooded banks
of the River Dart. Using standard gauge GWR steam railway
engines this seven mile track takes in stations at Kingswear,
Churston, Goodrington & Paignton. Wonderful nostalgic
stuff! As you progress North from Paignton up towards Torquay
choose from several recommended places to visit. Torre Abbey
is well worth exploring. This 18th century house
on the Kings Drive, Torquay is furnished with period rooms,
art galleries and remains of Premonstratensian Abbey (founded
in 1196) of which the gatehouse, guest hall and tithe (or
Spanish) barn survive. You might just get a glimpse of the
young Spanish woman seeking her long lost love or murdered
monk who, it is said, roams the Abbey grounds.
Alternatively, visit Kents Cavern. Explore the ancient caverns
and chambers of this remarkable archaeological site. Used
as shelter to humans and animals, for half a million years
these 2 million year old caves bring you closer to the dawn
of time. Important discoveries at Kents Cavern added to Charles
Darwin’s theories on evolution and make this a fascinating
venue. Enjoy the ‘Ancient Time Walk’ tour which
leads you through the years of its existence. A different
kind of past can be experienced at either Bygones - St. Marychurch,
Torquay or Compton Castle. Bygones museum gives a super insight
into the way our grandparents or great grandparents used to
shop. Wander back in time through old shop settings, streets,
pub and past period room displays ranging from ironmongers,
grocers, sweet shop and forge full of original Victorian artefacts.
Compton Castle is somewhat older in its nostalgia. This fortified
house was built in three stages; 1340, 1450 and 1520 by the
still residing Gilbert family. It gives a remarkable insight
into the architecture of these three periods
South East Cornwall
Between Bodmin moor and the Channel lies the high land of
south-east Cornwall. Cut by deep wooded valleys branching
into the sea, two former capitals of the ancient Royal Duchy
lie within this peaceful region - the tiny Cathedral ‘City’
of St. Germans, and the Old Stannary town of Lostwithiel.
Start exploring from Looe having enjoyed the narrow, winding
streets and head east for Seaton following the coastline towards
Millbrook before veering off to reach the outskirts of Cawsand
and Kingsand. Cawsand has the dubious distinction of having
once operated the largest smuggling fleet in the west country,
but today, more respectably, exists as a yacht anchorage at
the mouth of the Tamar. Take time out to visit Mount Edgcumbe
- this beautiful estate faces Plymouth across the Sound. Built
in the 16th Century this wonderful old house and
grounds has been turned into a fine country park with lovely
scenic walks along the surrounding coastline. If you pick
the right date you can coincide a visit with the local classic
car rally.
Retracing your steps towards Millbrook you can take another
stop at Antony House & Garden or travel on to St. Germans.
Managed by the National Trust Antony House is set in tranquil
woodland overlooking the Lynher River estuary. With 600 years
of family history and a wealth of paintings, tapestries, furniture
and embroidery the house offers attractions rain or shine.
Once at St. Germans enjoy the outstanding church in this rural
village. A former Augustinian priory and the cathedral church
of Cornwall. Much of this building has survived the ravages
of time and stands as one of Cornwall’s best examples
of Norman architecture. A Tudor gateway leads to the family
home of the Elliot’s, the Earls of St. Germans, since
1655.
Tour on to the busy market town of Liskeard and either stop
at this lively town with a number of buildings of interest
or take the A38 towards Dobwalls (signed Bodmin) and then
take a diversion on to an unclassified road that will take
you high onto the moorland of Bodmin moor. Excellent picnic
sites and walks around Siblyback Lake, the ancient King Doniert’s
Stone and the south east discovery centre at Minions. The
moorland is dotted with ancient settlements and monuments
to times gone by. Now descend into the Fowey valley - through
the Glynn valley until you come to Lanhydrock. Lanhydrock
is Cornwall’s greatest stately home and has to be included
in any tour of the Cornwall. It is set deep in the valley
with commanding views of the surrounding countryside and with
450 acres of parkland and glorious gardens, a stop is highly
recommended. Enjoy also the eerie time warp of the bedroom
belonging to Lanhydrock’s favourite son Tommy Agar-Robartes,
who was killed in action during the first world war, and his
untouched suitcase returned from Loos in 1915.
Conclude your tour of south east Cornwall with a visit to
Loswithiel and have a hunt around the antiques and other unusual
shops. Perhaps explore Restormel castle, perched high on a
mound, this splendid relic survives in remarkable condition.
The town, away from the main road is very pretty and has its
fair share of excellent eating places. Round off the day with
an excellent meal at the Trewithen Restaurant.
Truro & the Roseland Peninsula
With the Georgian elegance of Truro, lying between shady
creeks of woodland and water, this tour runs through hidden
fishing villages by way of lanes, high- banked, twisting and
narrow, to reach a special piece of heaven.
Initially begin exploring Truro on foot - perhaps with the
Cathedral as the starting point. Take an hour or two to wander
through the specialist quarters selling everything from stylish
clothes to wonderful antiques, art galleries and delicatessens.
Perhaps a visit to the Royal Cornwall Museum can also be fitted
in to gain an interesting insight into local history, archaeology,
mining, seafaring and many other aspects of Cornish life.
Leave Truro on the A39 and you will drive through the wooded
creek-side village of Tresillian, and on past Probus. Either
stop here for a walk through the well-known Probus gardens
or try Trewithen Gardens on the St. Austell side of the town.
Drive on to Grampound Village before turning right to Creed
- a small hamlet - before eventually coming to the ancient
village of Tregony. The wide street - Fore Street - has some
unusual shops including a gallery and an excellent antique
shop. When back in the car cross over the bridge and head
for St. Mawes on the A3078. The road twists and turns and
you will pass some beautiful countryside. At almost every
turning an optional stop can be made. Perhaps visit Portloe
or Veryan for some culinary refreshment. Veryan, hidden in
a wooded valley, most distinguishing features are the five
roundhouses that guard all entrances to the village. There
is an excellent art gallery in a beautiful thatched cottage
- Veryan galleries. Stop off and treat yourself to a momento.
The roundhouses were built - according to legend - by a parson
for his five daughters. He made them round so the devil couldn’t
hide in the corners!!! Still in Veryan a superb lunch stop
can be made at The Nare Hotel. Alternatively turn left off
the A3078 after Ruan High Lanes and enjoy a bracing walk on
Pendower beach. The out of season view with sea crashing in
on the coastline is simply inspiring. If you wish to feel
the sand beneath your feet walk down to the beach and enjoy
the Atlantic waves close at hand, dependent on the season
maybe venture in.
When you can stand this view no more move on through Trewithian
to reach St. Just in Roseland. St. Just in Roseland has to
be one of the most idyllic places in the westcountry. Tucked
away in one of the many creeks of the Carrick Roads lies this
tiny hamlet comprising of only a few houses. Go down to the
church that nestles at the water’s edge and enjoy the
picturesque churchyard. Continue along the St. Mawes road
and admire the wonderful panorama on your right across to
Falmouth and the Carrick Roads until you reach this charming
chic coastal village. Maybe visit the castle built by Henry
VIII to guard the Carrick Roads but definitely take time out
to watch the boats bob in the harbour and amble through the
village and enjoy the ambience - its waterside galleries,
delicatessens and craft shops. Enjoy a cup of coffee in the
luxurious surroundings of Hotel Tresanton and take in the
view across St. Mawes bay; later visit Lamorran Gardens just
behind and submerge yourself in exotic plants from the Mediterranean.
If time is still on your side leave St. Mawes and venture
out towards St. Antony’s Head and enjoy the panoramic
views and coastal walks. If not head back taking the short
cut through Philleigh that leads you to the King Harry Ferry.
Drive aboard and let it speed your journey back to Truro for
an evening meal. As you leave the ferry make a note to visit
Trelissick Gardens - one of Cornwall’s finest woodland
gardens overlooking the Fal estaury. Drive through Feock and
Playing Place and then select your restaurant or arrive in
time to be seated for your show at the Hall for Cornwall.
If a sunset, a pint and a good meal is what your’e after,
The Heron at Malpas, just outside of Truro, comes highly recommended.
Watch the sun go down over the river and yacht mooring.
North Cornwall Coast
Great Atlantic rollers forever pound the towering cliffs
of North Cornwall, their energy roaring in white surge along
the sandy beaches which have made Padstow and Newquay such
popular, but contrasting resorts.
If surfing or clubbing is your thing then spend a while in
Newquay - arguably the westcountry’s liveliest resort.
If not then leave via the A392 signpost Quintrell Downs or
maybe visit Trerice - a hidden gem. This wonderful Elizabethan
manor house is tucked away from the hub-bub of Newquay and
is largely untouched since its build in 1571. Once back on
the A392 turn left towards Porth and Watergate Bay. If you
have not had enough excitement in Newquay why not try your
hand at Kite buggying or Kite surfing at the Extreme Academy,
based on the beach below the Watergate Bay Hotel. If watching
is more your cup of tea then enjoy the views from the comfort
of the Beach Hut terrace or have something more substantial
in the Watergate Bay hotel.
Head off from Watergate Bay towards Mawgon Porth which is
a small, safe bay lying at the entrance to the Lanherne Valley
leading up to St. Mawgon. If a slice of the Far East appeals,
take time to visit the village of St. Mawgon that has its
own 1 _ acre Japanese Garden & Bonsai Nursery. Perhaps
a little unexpected in the westcountry but enjoy the culture
change. From Mawgon Porth climb to Trenance, and after another
mile venture down a track that leads to Bedruthan Steps -
a panoramic beauty spot maintained by the National Trust.
Huge lumps of granite march along the rugged beauty of this
beach. The rocks were, allegedly, so called because they were
the stepping stones of the legendary giant, Bedruthan. There
is an excellent National Trust café here that serves
the most delicious cakes and coffee…… Enjoy touring
through Porthcothan, St.Merryn, Harlyn Bay stopping wherever
the view grabs you before travelling onto Padstow, one of
the most charming and oldest fishing ports in North Cornwall.
Padstow was once the western outpost of the London &
South Western Railway which closed in 1967. The route from
Padstow through Wadebridge and on to Bodmin has been reborn
as the scenic cycle path that follows the estuary inland.
(Another day maybe drive to Wadebridge and hire a cycle from
Bridge Bike Hire to explore the old rail route).
Spend a while discovering the specialist shops tucked away
down the narrow streets of Padstow. You will find many art
and craft shops, award winning pasties at the Quayside Chough
bakery, the excellent Strand Bookshop which is a paradise
for book lovers and Prideaux Place, where you can enjoy a
fascinating guided tour of the Elizabethan ancestral home.
You can also enjoy a boat trip on the Camel Estuary; walk
alongside the estuary towards Stepper Point (perhaps having
bought provisions in Padstow), have a picnic on the beach
or in the fields admiring the scenery.
If you fancy seeing the other side of the Estuary take the
passenger ferry over the water to Rock and walk to St. Enodoc
Church where poet laureate Sir John Betjeman is buried. Have
a superb meal at the St. Enodoc Hotel but keep an eye on ferry
times. Alternatively, back in Padstow try Rick Stein’s
famous Seafood Restaurant (although you will need to book
well in advance) or try his café in Middle Street.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll around the streets to let your evening
meal settle and take in the atmosphere of this delightful
old port.
Falmouth, Helford & the Lizard Peninsula
Wreckers once used the towering cliffs and ferocious reefs
of the Lizard to cripple their victims. All around the peninsular
are villages in rocky bays, with towering rocks of multi-coloured
serpentine.
Start in Falmouth exploring this historic maritime town and
popular south coast resort. Falmouth has a bustling waterfront,
marina and is the World’s third largest natural deep-water
harbour - once home to the Packet Ships. In between all the
regular shops, there are some very unusual ones ranging from
art galleries and antique shops to good local bakeries and
delicatessens. At the Prince of Wales Pier, river boat trips
leave to various locations on a regular basis so you can see
the coastline from a different perspective.
From 2002 enjoy a visit to the newly open National Maritime
Museum and enjoy the awarding winning design of this new complex
and the many interesting displays it promises to hold. A tidal
gallery will allow visitors to view the rise and fall of the
tide from below water level. Also spend some time at Pendennis
Castle, built by Henry VIII, with outstanding panoramic views
of the Carrick Roads around to Manacles Point. The castle
has a three storey circular keep and extensive outworks. The
close relationship between maritime affairs and the area will
leap out at you.
Leave Falmouth by following the signs to Beaches and Helford
Passage, passing Maenporth and Swanpool follow signs for Mawnan
Smith. Once in Mawnon Smith do not fail to visit the un-missable
sub-tropical 26 acre ravine garden of Trebah. It has a fun,
jungle area for the younger generation - with its own private
beach at the bottom of the valley. On the other hand Glendurgan
Garden run by the National Trust has a spectacular laurel
maze to keep the children occupied and is literally sited
just next door……
Continue on to Constantine and perhaps stop off at the award
winning Trengilly wartha Pub & Restaurant for an excellent
meal. Perhaps also pop into Constantine Stores to pick up
a single malt (for another day!) from a choice of over 400.
From Constantine head to Gweek where the tranquil and picturesque
banks of the Helford River have become a haven for injured
birds and seals, stranded around the Cornish coastline. The
National Seal Sanctuary has animals in varying stages of recovery
- the kids love it (and it doesn’t matter how old you
are!) If the mood takes you whilst you are in the area hire
a boat from Helford River Boats and explore afloat. Travel
on to St. Keverne - a small fishing village with some lovely
beaches nearby and if you see the brown sign for Roskilly’s
give yourself a treat by buying some Cornish preserves, fudge
and clotted cream. Have a relaxing wander around St. Keverne
and you will come across the old coaching house, the White
Hart - time for a non-alcoholic break perhaps! Two Cornish
rebellions, one in 1497, one in 1547 have their roots in St.
Keverne - so be kind to the locals!
Make your way out of St. Keverne and gradually descend to
Coverack which was an old smugglers’ haunt and fishing
village overlooked by quaint thatched cottages. Coverack is
part of hidden Cornwall - enjoy the unspoilt atmosphere of
the village built on the very spur of rock that juts out into
the sea. Perhaps - a change of style and head in the direction
of Cadgwith before coming to Goonhilly - the Earth Satellite
Station. It is the largest Satellite Earth Station in the
world and stands in contrast to the older ways of Coverack.
Wonder at the new technology before heading off to Kennack
sands which is home to a beautiful stretch of beach, dotted
with shallow pools at low tide. May be this is a spot to enjoy
a picnic.
Leave the beauty of Kennack sands and make the sharp descent
into Cadgwith. This classic Cornish fishing village with pastel-washed
thatched houses is again a glimpse of old Cornwall. The fishing
fleet once landed a record 1,798,000 pilchards over four days
in 1904. Visit the Devil’s Frying Pan whilst in the area
- a collapsed sea cave best viewed in stormy out of season
weather. From Cadgwith go to Lizard village the most southerly
point of mainland Britain - (the Armada was first sighted
from here in 1588). The village is centred around a green
and has art and craft shops, cafes and an inn. Almost the
entire Lizard peninsula is composed of serpentine stone and
there are workshops where you can purchase your own piece
of this unusual rock. Call in at the Lizard Pasty shop if
your’e peckish!
To see the most spectacular formations of serpentine travel
the short distance to Kynance Cove where shades from red through
to green blue and purple lace the rock. The rocks found here
are cut and polished at Lizard village. You may already have
your own souvenir of this spectacular natural attraction and,
the tour, you’ve just enjoyed……
West Cornwall & the Lands End Peninsula
Legends of Mermaids and weather-worn cliffs protect the wild
Atlantic shoreline of the Penwith Peninsula. The other side
of Land’s End is the unique cliff-side theatre of Porthcurno
and Mount’s Bay, with St.Michael’s mount rising
from the sea. This tour takes you through a land of myth,
legend and folklore.
Tour the western fringes of Cornwall in style with some unique
stops along the way - don’t forget your picnic hamper
- empty so you can collect your provisions along the way -
a warm jumper, blanket and cushion - all will be revealed
at the end of the day.
Motor down the A30 to one of Cornwall’s most charming
resorts - St. Ives. Magnificently situated overlooking spectacular
crescent beaches it is most noted for its artists colony and
is home to The Tate gallery in St. Ives. Known for the quality
of its light, artistic flair simply permeates the character
of the place. Walk down through the cobbled streets, taking
in the myriad of shops - stopping to buy your memento of St.
Ives, perhaps a painting or print of the fishing boats of
St. Ives bay and gather your provisions for your picnic dinner
this evening. If you fancy a break for mid-morning coffee
- the Porthminster Beach café is an excellent stop,
or if you fancy lunch, how does John Dory or Sun Dried Tomato
Risotto Cake sound whilst basking in the sunshine overlooking
St. Ives Bay. Café Pasta the Italian restaurant and
the Sloop Inn situated next door to each other on the front
are also both highly recommended.
Visit the Tate gallery to take in some inspiration and enjoy
the changing displays of modern art associated with Cornwall
& St. Ives and visit the Barbara Hepworth museum for a
fine display of over 40 of her sculptures. Take a stroll beyond
the harbour to The Island also known as St. Ives head, which
is a headland separating Porthgwidden Beach from popular surfing
beach Porthmeor. The view from here is awesome.
Back to the car, stopping off on the climb back to take in
the spectacular view and leave St. Ives westbound to Zennor.
Marvel at the rugged boulder-strewn moorland and granite tors
that slope down to the Atlantic Ocean on your right - a brooding
landscape and charming village. Whilst in Zennor, visit the
church of St. Senera - sit in the Mermaid’s Chair whilst
the Wayside Museum will transport you back in time and covers
all aspects of life in the area. D. H. Lawrence lived here
for a short time during World War I.
Continue south-west on the coastal road with the option of
a visit to Geevor tin mining museum with magnificent coastal
views and within easy walk of Pendeen Lighthouse and the Lelant
Beam Engine. Stop off at Cape Cornwall - noted as the only
Cape in England and see the infamous Brisons reef lying offshore.
This reef has a macabre record of shipwrecks. Travel on to
St. Just - the most westerly settlement in mainland Britain.
From the small aerodrome take a pleasure flight and see Cornwall
from an altogether different perspective. Once again on terra
firma leave St. Just and re-join the A30. From here you can
continue down to Lands End, England’s most westerly point
and enjoy the many attractions there. Enjoy a coffee or a
cream tea overlooking the rugged cliffs and maybe on a very
clear day, see the Isles of Scilly. If you don’t fancy
Land’s End then head for nearby Sennen Cove; popular
with surfers and the former windlass house is now a craft
gallery. If its a liquid stop you need, pop into the Old Success
Inn.
Leaving Sennen or Lands End take a highly recommended visit
to Pothcurno and the Minack Theatre. With its exquisite beach
of golden sand and turquoise waters, the Minack has both matinee
and evening performances from May to September - watch the
stars appear to Gilbert & Sullivan, or the moon to a Shakespearean
production by a local theatre company - the experience is
truly memorable. If you prefer technology to theatre visit
the museum of submarine telegraphy created from Cornwall’s
secret wartime communication site and learn how we talked
to the world from the Victorian times to present day. Another
option is to take in Mousehole - an atmospheric Cornish fishing
village with narrow alleyways and flower filled courtyards
and typical granite cottages crowding around a small harbour.
See a glimpse of Cornwall’s fishing heritage and again
feel closer to times past.
Take the coast road to Penzance - and spend a while in this
interesting town and walk along the promenade. Maybe take
a look at Cornwall’s Geological Museum and see 400 million
years of Cornwall’s past in one building or just outside
Penzance find Chysauster Ancient Village where the original
occupants of this site lived almost 2000 years ago. Be touched
by the history around you. Make sure you find Chapel street
and enjoy the impressive range of specialist shops ranging
from book shops, jewellers to a cigar company. Lots of good
eating places, but for something very special, book a meal
at the Summer House, and let Linda and Ciro look after you
for the evening or go to The Turks Head Inn famed for its
extensive menu and speciality local seafood.
If you’ve time - or another day - visit Trengwainton
Garden with its rich, exotic plants and spectacular view across
Mounts Bay to the Lizard. Enjoy seeing plants that can be
grown nowhere else on mainland Britain. When you’ve enjoyed
a coffee follow road-signs for Marazion. With its famous island
monastery and fortress, St. Michael’s Mount (National
Trust) is the home of Lord and Lady St. Levan. State of tide
predicates access to the Mount by launch or on foot, over
the causeway. Originally a Benedictine Priory built in the
12th century and daughter house of the famous Mont
St. Michel in Normandy. Enjoy the various rooms and terraced
and walled gardens planted with an array of tender, exotic
plants. To round off a visit you could have a meal at the
Godolphin Arms overlooking spectacular St. Michael’s
Mount. The Mount, built on a huge granite crag that rises
from the sea, is dedicated to Archangel St. Michael who, it
is said under Cornish legend, appeared to fishermen in the
year 495. Enjoy your meal watching over this mystical site…….
(Further westcountry tours are under development - acknowledgments
to Cornwall Tourist Board for their assistance.)
For further details on these tours please visit www.cornwallclassiccarhire.co.uk
or telephone Cornwall Classic Car Hire on 0845 458 1108 (local
rate) or +44 (0)1840 230090 for overseas enquiries, and they
will be delighted to arrange your stay and produce your individualised
holiday pack. Detailed touring routes and information packs
are available
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