Ben Pratchett – 01326 574842 ben.pratchett@enginehousemedia.co.uk
Chairman & Founder
Andy Forster – 01326 574842 andy.forster@enginehousemedia.co.uk
Welcome
From the Editor to the 2026 edition of Wild Lizard!
This year’s foray across the Lizard Peninsula has been an exciting one, as we celebrate the people and places that make the southernmost tip of the UK such a unique place to live, work and stay. From coast to countryside, the Lizard has much to offer. Walk the South West Coast Path around its perimeter to discover a plethora of flora and fauna; pop in to one of its delightful cafés, restaurants or pubs for refreshment; visit one of its many craft centres or galleries; or rest your head after a day’s exploration at one of its coastal boutique hotels. However you choose to enjoy the Lizard, we would love to hear about it. If you have any photographs or tales of adventure as you explore the Lizard Peninsula, why not share them with us on social media @cornwalllivinguk #WildLizard.
Located on the Southern-most tip of mainland Britain, The Lizard in Cornwall is the perfect choice when it comes to choosing a holiday destination here in the UK, and there’s no better place to stay than in a lighthouse cottage.
Managed by Cornwall Hideaways, the six cottages of Lizard Lighthouse present guests with dazzling scenery and coastal walks right on the doorstep. Book your stay today.
SCANHERE TOBOOK
Stories woven through Cornish life
The Museum of Cornish Life is housed in a former market building in the heart of Helston. Inside, three floors of galleries unfold across five halls, displaying thousands of objects that reflect everyday life in Cornwall over the past two centuries. Together, they tell the story of a county shaped by ingenuity and resilience that have given it a disctinctive character.
This summer, the museum is putting on a special exhibition focusing on its costume collection, exploring what Cornish people wore and what clothing can reveal about work, status and changing social lives. From carefully preserved garments to wellworn everyday pieces, the exhibition offers
The beating heart
Situated in the centre of Mylor Bridge, the Lemon Arms embodies the spirit of this creekside village – welcoming, unpretentious and utterly charming. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Fal River, Mylor’s riverside and rural walks wind past boats bobbing on gentle waters and fields rich with the scent of the Cornish countryside. Inside, the Lemon Arms radiates warmth, a place of welcome retreat after a day of exploration. Its menu celebrates local produce with dishes that reflect the soul of the region – fresh seafood, hearty vegetables and flavours steeped in tradition. Yet, its prices remain refreshingly grounded, offering exceptional value without compromising quality. With its blend of honest hospitality
an intimate glimpse into lives once lived. The museum hums with conversation and curiosity, brought to life by knowledgeable volunteers. Children can dress up, families can join free holiday activities and there is a small café and gift shop. Entry, from Monday through to Saturday, 10am-4pm, is free, and everyone is warmly welcomed.
For more information, visit www.museumofcornishlife.co.uk or call 01326 564027.
and culinary craftsmanship, the Lemon Arms isn’t just a pub; it’s the beating heart of a village where every visit feels like coming home.
For more information, visit www. lemonarms.co.uk or call 01326 373666.
Designer insight ‘2026 colour trends’
The design team at Now Kitchens observe a clear shift in kitchen and interior palettes as we move toward 2026 – away from stark contrasts and cool neutrals, and toward warmer, richer, more soulful tones. Earthy hues – think clay, mocha and terracotta –are gaining traction, while deep merlot and aubergine offer dramatic alternatives that still feel grounded and elegant.
At the same time, softer, dusty shades such as chalky pink, muted ochre and misted greens are making their mark – especially when used alongside natural woods and textured surfaces. In cabinetry and splashbacks, toneon-tone layering – subtle shifts in saturation rather than bold contrast – is becoming a sophisticated default.
Now Kitchens integrates these evolving palettes with its signature design philosophy: marrying rich materiality and function. Colour, they believe, should enhance the tactile experience of a space, not overpower it.
For more information, visit www.nowkitchens.co.uk or call 01326 565522.
On-site customer services and facilities include:-
Indoor and outdoor seating including six all weather huts offering spectacular sea views
Rear garden terraced area with children’s play fishing boat with slide
Free superfast Starlink customer Wi-Fi
On-site customer male and female toilets with baby changing facilities
On-site car park with disabled access to cafe
Exclusive Roskilly’s Cornish ice cream counter
Supplying fresh Cornish seafood from Cadgwith Cove and Lizard boats
Freshly baked Cornish cakes, pasties and cream teas
Fully licensed bar offering exceptional selection of local beers, wines, and spirits
Summer pizza BBQ nights accompanied with live music
A flight OF FANCY
JAn imaginative road trip uncovering the Lizard Peninsula’s distinctive places.
Words by Jamie Crocker
ust imagine constructing your own road trip – one only partly grounded in reality. The destinations might exist, but the usual constraints of the road would fall away. There would be no fixed routes or junctions to follow, only the freedom to drift from one place to the next.
This is ours: a fanciful pilgrimage around the Lizard Peninsula, tracing a landscape that hangs like a pendant from a chain drawn between the Helford in the east and Porthleven in the west. Along the way, we encounter the authentic places that shape this remarkable corner of Cornwall.
The journey begins at Cadgwith, where a narrow valley leads to a small harbour still used by the fishing fleet. Whitewashed cottages with thatched roofs lean close together, snuggled together against Atlantic weather. Boats lie pulled above the tide line and the cove retains a life defined by the sea. Above the harbour stands the Cadgwith Cove Inn, a building whose story stretches back more than three centuries. Inside, timbered rooms hold relics of the village’s maritime past, while the kitchen sends out plates dictated to by
the daily catch. Seven recently refurbished guest rooms provide simple comfort and wide views across the cove, making the inn both a stopping point and vantage.
A short wander inland brings us to Ruan Minor Store, Café and Post Office where village life passes steadily through its doors. Shelves carry Cornish cheeses, cured meats and jars of pickles; the bakery turns out fresh bread and pastries; the deli counter offers olives and smoked fish. In the café, cakes and soups appear alongside coffee and Smugglers Brew tea. It is shop, post office and a meeting place all in one.
From there we head north to Coverack, a harbour village with a long association with the sea. Looking directly over the beach is the Bay Hotel (page 25), where every room faces the harbour and the sound of surf accompanies the night. In the restaurant, the kitchen works with produce drawn from nearby fields and waters. A little along the shoreline stands the Paris Hotel, built in 1907 and named after the liner SS Paris, which ran aground nearby at the end of the nineteenth century. Its refurbished rooms open to the same broad
Based in Wendron, Cornwall, we’re a family run restaurant with a warm atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of drinks.
We invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience that feels just like home.
One of the best Sunday carveries
Private venue hire • Weddings and any occasion or event Par 3 golf course • Football golf parties
Onsite holiday lodges and apartments available Beer garden • Onsite play area
Pop in just for a drink • Great food classics
sweep of sea, while the bar and dining room look towards the harbour wall where fishing boats still come and go.
Turning west across the peninsula leads to Mullion, the largest settlement on the Lizard. Nearby coves once thrived on pilchard fishing and smuggling; today the harbour at Mullion Cove sits beneath towering cliffs owned by the National Trust, with Mullion Island standing offshore as a haven for seabirds. Within the village, another craft draws attention: at Trenance Chocolates a small team works with Belgian couverture to produce moulded shapes, chocolate bars and truffles. Each batch is tempered and finished by hand, giving visitors the chance to sample a sweeter side of the peninsula.
Pressing south again, we arrive at Lizard Village, gateway to the southernmost point of mainland Britain. Just beyond the green, the land falls away towards cliffs and open ocean. Overlooking this headland is Wavecrest Café (page 15), first opened in the 1930s and restored in recent years using traditional materials. The windows frame a sweeping view of the sea while the kitchen serves dishes built around Cornish produce. A short distance away stands the Housel Bay Hotel, its Victorian design the work of Cornish architect Silvanus Trevail. The building has welcomed travellers since 1894 and even counted wireless pioneer Guglielmo Marconi among its visitors when he conducted early experiments nearby.
Our route then arcs east towards Porthallow on the sheltered side of the peninsula. Here the shoreline forms part of the long curve of Falmouth Bay. Set back in wooded solitude sits Fat Apples Café, where breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas are prepared with ingredients sourced from local butchers, bakers and fishermen. Down by the water stands the Five Pilchards Inn, a free house dating from 1830 and revived after a careful refurbishment.
A little inland the village square of St Keverne appears anchored by The Three Tuns pub, serving seasonal dishes and regional drinks, with several guest rooms above and summer bell tents set in the garden behind. Continue a little further and the hamlet of Newtown reveals The Prince of Wales, a sixteenthcentury pub saved and reopened through community effort. Its log fire, dartboard and board games provide the simple pleasures of a village gathering place.
And so the journey loops back across the peninsula, the miles between these stops blurred by imagination rather than asphalt. What remains clear are the people, kitchens, inns and cafés that animate the Lizard’s villages. Follow the trail for real and each of these places waits with its own welcome.
Open daily throughout the summer from 12 noon to late offering a beautiful selection of wines, ales and beers accompanied with award winning Cornish cuisine, including traditional Cornish dishes and our amazing fresh fish and seafood supplied directly from the Cove . . . from boat to plate
On-site customer services and facilities include:-
Fully licensed Indoor Bar, Restaurant and outdoor courtyard area
Seven accommodation rooms, including en-suite and sea view options, with on-site exclusive parking for residents
Weekly Tuesday Folk Night and world famous Friday Sea Shanties Night throughout the summer, with new Pizza Evenings, Fish BBQ’s and Sunday music sessions to entertain everyone during 2026
Muddy boats and dog walkers are extremely welcome on this essential stop on the South West Coastal Footpath
A Cornish pub run by a Cornish family welcoming everyone to our beautiful 300 year old inn . . . Cornish hospitality at its finest
To book accommodation or book a table for lunch or dinner, please call 01326 290513 or email hello@cadgwith-coveinn.com
Our beautiful Inn is also available for private hire (no hire charge) to host your special occasions including birthdays, weddings, wakes, conferences and small private party gatherings - making memories forever
On the crest
OF A WAVE
We discover Cornish food and hospitality at its finest, served up with a side of view!
At the most southerly point of mainland Britain, where the land gives way to the Atlantic and the horizon stretches in every direction, Wavecrest Café at Lizard Point feels exactly where it should be. Wavecrest sits proudly overlooking the ocean, with the sort of sweeping sea views that remind you why the Cornish coast continues to capture hearts. From the terrace and picture windows, the outlook is endless blue and dramatic shoreline; a view that can hold your attention long after the last sip of coffee.
Wavecrest is run by Gary and Victoria Pollard and family – the latest generation continuing a long tradition of living and running businesses on the Lizard – and that sense of Cornish heritage is felt from the moment you step inside. The welcome is warm, the atmosphere relaxed and there’s the easy rhythm that comes when a place is run with genuine pride. Everyone is greeted with a smile, whether you’ve just finished a bracing stretch of the South West Coast Path or wandered down from Lizard Village for a mid-morning break.
It’s the perfect stop-off during a coastal walk. The café stands right on the cliff path leading west towards Kynance Cove or east to Housel Bay, Church Cove and Cadgwith, making it a natural pause point for walkers who appreciate good food alongside a sea
view. A hearty breakfast or morning coffee here feels well-earned after a clifftop stroll. For little ones, the indulgent hot chocolate, the sort that arrives steaming and unapologetically generous, is welcomed with wide smiles.
Lunch is equally appealing. The menu focuses on well-priced favourites made with fresh local ingredients. Everything is prepared to order, from light bites to heartier plates, reflecting Wavecrest’s strong connection to local produce. Think tasty burgers, salad bowls, sandwiches and paninis and, of course, fresh fish and chips. Come summer, hugely popular pizza nights bring people together over good food and sea air. Being fully licensed, it’s just as easy to linger with a drink while watching the light soften across the water.
And if you’re feeling energetic, the adventure doesn’t have to end here. A walk along the coast towards Cadgwith, leads to the family’s pub in this delightful fishing village, another chance to soak up the character of this remarkable stretch of coastline.
WAVECREST CAFÉ
Lizard Point, Helston TR12 7NU hello@wavecrestcornwall.co.uk 01326 290898
wavecrestlizardpoint Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
EXPERIENCE
DID YOU KNOW?
Wavecrest Cafè boasts the following…
• A dog-friendly welcome
• Wheelchair access
• Superfast customer Wi-Fi
• A full alcohol license
• Takeaway service
• Customer toilets and baby changing facilities
• A rear garden terrace area for children and families
It's also available for private hire
LEFT
and light play
Looking over a deserted beach entitled Spring Day at
LIGHT AND LANDSCAPE
Heather Howe is a painter inspired by landscape and the shifting character of light.
Born in Buckinghamshire, Heather spent much of her childhood on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, where her father worked as an artist and studio potter. The experience left a lasting impression, not only through exposure to making and materials, but through long hours spent outdoors observing the changing character of the land.
A childhood spent roaming the Cornish countryside, along with time with grandparents in the Cotswolds, established an early fascination with wild plants. At thirteen, she bought a copy of The Concise British Flora and began identifying flowers encountered on walks. The habit has never entirely left her. Books on botany and gardens still occupy a considerable portion of her shelves.
BELOW
After completing a BA degree at Falmouth and Exeter, she returned to Berkshire and shared a studio with her father. During this period, she produced copper-plate etchings, selling work through Liberty’s in London and the Medici Gallery on Bond Street. Printmaking proved formative. The discipline of describing light and landscape through black and white aquatint trained her eye, sharpening an awareness that would later shape her painting.
Her practice gradually moved towards larger watercolours and, later, oil painting. Throughout these shifts in medium, one idea has remained central. “Light is the thread that has run through my work from the beginning,” she says. “And plants, of course.” Sunlit gardens, hedgerows and loosely structured planting schemes appear frequently in her work, approached less as formal design than as living arrangements of colour and form.
Heather now lives and works in West Cornwall. Most days begin outdoors, walking her dog along woodland tracks and footpaths before returning to the studio. These excursions provide the raw material for her paintings: shifting colour across fields, or the way sunlight moves between leaves.
Her own garden reflects the same interests. Cultivated plants grow alongside wild species such as foxgloves and cow parsley, creating a loose, naturalistic planting that echoes the subjects she paints. There is even a gorse bush planted deliberately for its coconut scent. For Heather, these simple encounters with plants and sunlight continue to guide the work.
HEATHER HOWE
heather-howe@hotmail.co.uk www.cornwall-art.co.uk www.cotswoldcontemporary.co.uk/artists/ heather-howe/ Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
ABOVE
Lelant
Sunlight pierces a wooded glade in Evening in the Bluebells
Shadow
across the path to the sea in Early Morning Walk, Gunwalloe
Creating
A COMMUNITY
Roskilly’s Farm has created a space for people to enjoy nature, hearty local food, luxury Cornish ice cream, the best of Cornish talent and a feeling of community working towards conscientious living. Join us as we explore Roskilly's...
Coast Colour Canvas Gallery
Coast Colour Canvas Gallery champions the work of artists inspired by Cornwall. Pieces by resident artists Fiona Foster, Chloe Woods and potter Pippa Good adorn the space, and there is always something fresh to see as each week a new guest artist takes over the famous blue wall. Expect bold colourful harbours, moody skies and seas, luscious fields and landscapes and some really unique work made from felt or shopping bags (you have to see it) or featuring woodland creatures or camp sailors.
coastcolourcanvasgallery
coastcolourcanvasgallery
Viewing
Over
A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
FOR HOUNDS AND THEIR HUMANS
Dogs can have fun while their people browse a wide range of quality products from UK independent businesses, many of which are handmade, eco-friendly and some are made right here in Cornwall! Anything not sourced in the UK is, in our opinion, the best on the market. We stock one of the largest ranges of Ruffwear gear in the South West. Come and check us out in the centre of Falmouth...It’s where your dog would choose to shop.
southpawdogstore • hello@southpawdogstore.com 48 Church Street, Falmouth TR11 3EA
The Croust House
The Roskilly family are passionate about supporting Cornish art in all its forms, hosting independent galleries, makers and creative workshops on the farm, alongside a vibrant programme of live music every Saturday throughout the year and Thursday evenings in summer. On warm evenings, The Croust House yard comes alive with food cooked over wood fires, music, art and people gathering together to celebrate creativity, community and all things Cornwall.
Gwenton gallery was established in 2025 by mother and daughter Tamsyn and Jenna Bray. At Gwenton you’ll get to see Jenna working at her wheel throwing pottery and Tamsyn’s silver and 18ct jewellery along with a selection of responsibly sourced gifts. Gwenton prides itself on the unique and handmade celebrating the beauty of craft.
gwentongallery gwentongallery
The Bullpen Gift and Workshop
Mia Anstis runs The Bullpen Gift and Workshop, an eco-conscious gift shop and workshop space showcasing over 30 local artists from the Lizard and Cornwall, with regular workshops in silver jewellery and other crafts. thebullpengiftshop www.thebullpengiftandworkshop.bigcartel.com
Purely Beeing
The old ice cream parlour is home to Linda Andrews and her natural beeswax products. Made here in Cornwall, you’ll find skincare, candles, cosmetics, balms and salves, soap and shampoo bars, all perfect for natural care and eco-friendly living. purelybeeing www.purelybeeing.co.uk
Among
THE TREES
Three considered woodland stays above the Helford valley near Gweek.
Rising above the Helford valley, a short distance from Gweek, Kosel Treehouses occupies land once worked as vertiginous farmland. By the time Patrick and Maddie Spink took it on, the ground had already begun to revert. Rather than halt that process, the couple worked with it, placing three treehouses lightly among the woodland and gradually restoring the surrounding habitat.
Kosel now runs on renewable electricity, with solar already serving Daskor and further generation planned for Skapya and Kalmynsi. The ongoing work around the site is less visible but no less important, with new trees being planted and woodland groundcover encouraged back into life.
Daskor remains the most spacious of the three. Built for families or small groups, its curved timber structure contains two generous king bedrooms, one with a trundle, arranged around a broad open-plan living area. The interior follows a Scandinavian approach with uncluttered, warm materials and large panes of glass that frame the surrounding woodland.
A Jøtul wood burner anchors the main room alongside a velvet sofa and dining table suited as much to sketching or reading as to meals. The kitchen is properly equipped, and the bathroom, with underfloor heating and deep forest-toned tiles, is thoughtfully finished.
Outside, a chestnut-deck terrace and outdoor bath sit within the tree canopy, while a meadow at the rear opens the view and brings light across the building.
Skapya and Kalmynsi offer a more intimate stay while sharing the same careful siting and architectural vocabulary. Each is designed for two guests, with curved timber forms that feel part of the woodland rather than imposed upon it. Inside, the spaces are compact yet well considered: a king bed set beneath broad windows, a small kitchen arranged for practical use and a living area oriented toward the trees. Wood burners bring warmth in colder months, while the terraces extend living outdoors, with baths placed for long evening soaks beneath the canopy.
All three treehouses are linked via a sense of thoughtful restraint. Materials are natural with colours drawn from the surrounding landscape and decoration kept to a minimum. Here, guests quickly find that everything they need is to hand, so that their focus turns outward to the natural world beyond.
KOSEL TREEHOUSES
Old Mill Farm, Gweek, Helston TR12 6UD 07780 124 184 www.koseltreehouses.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Nestled in the corner of St Keverne village square, an ideal location for exploring the Southwest Coastal Path, the Three Tuns offers a warm welcome to all who visit. Hosted by David & Andrea, The Three Tuns is a pub and restaurant for the local community and visitors alike, serving a menu that caters to all, including gluten-free options and locally sourced ales and IPAs. There are 5 beautifully appointed letting rooms, 6 glamping tents, and a beautiful beer garden to spend the long summer evenings.
Offering regular live entertainment, sought after Sunday roasts and carefully conditioned cask ales, the Tuns is a popular choice for a Cornish getaway.
We are a family company spanning three generations of the finest craftsmen, helping people bring new life to their loved pieces of furniture. Our clients come from all corners of the country and have chosen us since 1965 for our excellent customer service, attention to detail, sympathetic restorations and a good understanding of the original manufacture.
The Bay Hotel, Coverack, is a place of peace, a restful retreat where guests can relax and unwind.
Combining décor inspired by nature with a warm Cornish welcome, the hotel occupies an elevated position with spectacular views over Coverack Bay and its historic working harbour. The 14 bedrooms each have their own character, with beds dressed in the softest Egyptian cotton linens.
Such is the hotel’s proximity to the sea that a morning dip is often the order of the day, followed by a hearty Cornish breakfast, best enjoyed on the terrace when the weather allows. For those seeking a little more independence, the Sea Pod offers a self-catering option with its own garden, well-equipped kitchen, bathroom and generous double bedroom. All are welcome, including four-legged friends, who are greeted with a bespoke welcome pack containing handmade Cornish dog biscuits and a voucher for Scoffs Doggy Ice Cream.
For guests keen to slow the pace still further, a curated menu of in-room wellness treatments brings spa-style indulgence straight to the bedroom. From holistic massage and reflexology to non-invasive facials, these restorative treatments are designed to be enjoyed without ever leaving the hotel. Evening appointments are particularly tempting, allowing guests to drift effortlessly from treatment to bed, lulled to sleep by the sound of waves rolling into the bay.
On the water, a more adventurous form of escapism awaits. Exclusive private yacht charters, available through the hotel, offer the chance to explore the Helford River, go dolphin spotting in Falmouth Bay or cruise the coastline of the Lizard Peninsula. Skippered and entirely private, these tailored experiences lend themselves perfectly to romantic escapes, landmark celebrations or memorable anniversaries.
Dining is centred around the hotel’s Hevva restaurant, named for the rousing cry of the huers who once scanned the seas for pilchard shoals. Fish and shellfish take pride of place, much of it sourced directly from Coverack’s local fishing fleet. Lobsters and Cornish king crab arrive fresh from next door, supplied by Lew, while local hake, line-caught mackerel and Fal oysters feature on a changing menu. There’s also a delicious Sunday Roast throughout the year, made with fresh, seasonal produce and the finest cuts of locally produced beef, pork or lamb. While dogs are not permitted in Hevva, guests with canine companions are welcome to dine in the lounge bar, on the sunny terrace or amongst the agapanthus in the gardens. An allday bar menu offers seasonal dishes, alongside the option of a traditional Cornish cream tea with homemade scones. A thoughtfully chosen wine list highlights organic and biodynamic producers, complemented by Cornish gins, beers and ciders behind the bar.
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The Bay is also a South West Coast Path passport stamping site, reflecting its enviable position along this much-loved route and making it an ideal stop-off for walkers and their dogs. When the tide allows, Coverack’s dogfriendly beach is just a ball throw away. After a day spent exploring coast and countryside, refuelling here feels less like a recommendation and more like an inevitability.
THE BAY HOTEL
Coverack TR12 6TF 01326 280464
reception@thebayhotel.co.uk www.thebayhotel.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Cocktails – Two for £15 on a Friday from 5pm to 8pm. All-Day Bar Food – A range of seasonal dishes.
Cream Teas – Homemade scones, Cornish clotted cream, Boddington's Cornish jam and Tregothnan Cornish tea. Coffee served with The Bay’s homemade gingerbread or a selection of homemade cakes.
For further details about the Wellness Treatments visit: www.thebayhotel.co.uk/ wellness-treatments and for Private Yacht Charters go to: www.thebayhotel.co.uk/ private-yacht-charter-cornwall
THE HELFORDRefinement on
A long-established riverside hotel with gardens, golf and easy access to the Helford.
Set within 65 acres of Cornish countryside on a bend of the Helford River near Falmouth, Budock Vean Hotel combines the character of a country estate with the facilities of a four-star hotel.
Accommodation is varied, with 50 rooms in the main house alongside three contemporary holiday homes and four self-catering cottages set within the grounds. Dogs are welcome in most accommodation, with the exception of the hotel suites and the Frenchman’s Creek holiday home.
The hotel’s Signature Rooms and Suites offer a more contemporary style and look out across the gardens and golf course, while Standard Rooms provide comfortable accommodation within the main building. All rooms include dressing gowns and GAIA toiletries to add an extra level of comfort during a stay.
Food plays a central role in the experience. The restaurant is open every day, with menus that focus on seasonal produce from Cornwall and the wider South West. Light lunches can be taken on the terrace or in the conservatory, and afternoon tea is served daily between 1pm and 4pm.
For those drawn to the outdoors, the hotel’s nine-hole, 18-tee golf course runs through mature parkland and was originally designed in the 1920s by five-time Open Champion James Braid. Thanks to the mild local climate, the course remains playable throughout the year.
The Natural Health Spa provides a place to unwind, with three treatment rooms, a nail bar and a dedicated spa lounge. The 15-metre indoor heated swimming pool sits beside large windows overlooking the grounds, while outside an open-air hot tub looks across the gardens and golf course. A range of treatments using GAIA Skincare products is available.
Beyond the hotel buildings, the estate leads down to the Helford River, where creeks, woodland paths and open water shape the landscape. Guests can explore the river by kayak or paddleboard, take walks through the surrounding countryside or spend time on nearby beaches. The hotel’s own small cove offers a convenient point for launching boats and other water-based activities.
Several well-known gardens lie close by. Trebah Garden and Glendurgan Garden are both within walking distance, offering further opportunities to explore this distinctive corner of Cornwall.
Trebah Garden, a locus of horticultural wonder, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its lush, sub-tropical splendour.
Situated in a sheltered valley that slopes gently toward the Helford River, this extraordinary garden enchants all who wander its winding paths. Each season brings a kaleidoscope of beauty, but spring and summer are when the garden truly flourishes, offering a feast for the senses.
In early spring, 100-year-old rhododendrons and magnolias erupt into life, their vibrant hues creating amazing vistas. Delicate camellias and fragrant acacias add depth to this botanical spectacle, while native bluebells carpet the woodland floor in a sea of stunning colour. Summer sees the rise of the garden’s most iconic feature – the towering gunnera. Known as giant rhubarb, these prehistoric plants grow to over five metres, forming a dramatic canopy beneath which visitors can marvel at nature’s raw power.
Hydrangea Valley is another seasonal delight. Spanning two acres, this haven bursts into pastel blooms of pink, purple and blue, transforming the lower valley into a painter’s palette. The garden’s exotic plant collection – featuring towering bamboo and graceful tree ferns – thrives in the micro-climate of Trebah’s sheltered glades, offering a window into faraway lands. Trebah’s diversity of plant life ensures there is something remarkable to see at any time of year.
Yet Trebah is more than a garden; it is an experience. Its secluded beach, resting at the base of the valley, offers visitors a chance to relax by the water, breathe in the salty air and dip their toes in the Helford’s gently lapping waters. Families and four-legged friends are warmly welcomed, with children’s play areas, garden trails and dog-friendly spaces ensuring a delightful day for all. The on-site café and shops add to the allure, offering locally sourced treats and unique mementoes of a magical visit.
Open daily from 9:30 am, Trebah’s charm lies not only in its natural beauty but in its ability to connect people to the landscape. Whether wandering beneath the giant gunnera, gazing at hydrangea-filled slopes, or simply savouring the tranquillity of the private beach, a visit to Trebah Garden is an invitation to step into a world of wonder and leave with memories that linger long after.
TREBAH GARDEN
Trebah Garden Trust, Mawnan Smith, Falmouth TR11 5JZ 01326 252200 mail@trebah-garden.co.uk www.trebah-garden.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
TREASURESHidden
Ascenic drive through this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty leads to the Stable Yard Gallery, where you’ll encounter a lively, creative hub of various artists preparing for exhibitions throughout the spring, summer and autumn.
Inside this spacious, light-filled gallery, an eclectic range of styles and techniques unfolds, bringing together both representational and abstract painting in an ever-changing display – from exciting seascapes that capture stormy weather to gentle water colours that embrace the warmth of summer.
Housing a varied collection of originals, prints and cards, the gallery is run by the artists themselves, allowing them to share their enthusiasm about their own work and that of colleagues, inspiring each other along the way.
There is also beautiful work from the gallery’s associate craft members, including serpentine and wood pieces by Samvado, ceramics by Karen Needham, glass by Sarah Trewhella, textiles by Jane Chetwynd and jewellery by Rachel Stowe.
New to Lizard Art for 2026, they welcome associate member Daisy Dunlop, who works with gold, silver, enamel, bio-resin, precious and semi-precious stones to create handmade jewellery that possesses a worn and layered
Tucked into a charming courtyard of ancient buildings, situated within the Trelowarren Estate, Lizard Art is a co-operative of 14 artists.
appearance. She incorporates poems, collage, colour, engraving, motifs and texture into her pieces for visually dense, colour-rich shapes in soft, organic, misaligned shapes. All of her Jewellery is hand-made, using recycled metals, making her business as sustainable as possible in both packaging, process, chemical and material choices.
The other new co-operative member is Sally Wyatt, a landscape artist and maker. Using natural materials, mark making, layering and playful experiments, Sally is an artist for whom process is all-important, and largely unplanned outcomes are texturally complex.
And for those wishing to make more of a day of it, adjacent to the gallery is the Flora café, which serves drinks, light bites and meals, with both indoor and outdoor seating set among the palms, creating a relaxed, easygoing atmosphere.
Lizard Lighthouse: Oil on Panel - 40cmx40cm by Geoff Sheed
INSET LEFT
Morning in Mounts Bay by Sally Cole
INSET RIGHT
Bracelet by Daisy Dunlop
EXPERIENCE
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Exhibitions
Spring Show: Thurs 26th
March – Sun 31st May
Summer Show: Thurs 4th
June – Sun 23rd August
Autumn Show: Thurs 27th
Aug – Sun 1st Nov
Open: Thurs – Sun 11am – 3pm
TOP
Orchard Twilight by Neville Cox
Ride the Lizard
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Explore the Penrose National Trust Estate and the wider Lizard Peninsula with premium bikes for all ages.
There are few more enjoyable ways to take in the Lizard Peninsula than by bicycle, and Lakeside Cycles has built its reputation on making that simple, well organised and enjoyable. Based in Helston beside the entrance to the National Trust’s Penrose Estate, the business operates from a spot that allows riders to set off almost immediately, without grappling with traffic or complicated logistics. The emphasis is on reliable equipment, clear advice and routes that reward effort rather than intimidate.
The Penrose Estate provides a natural starting point. Its network of off-road paths winds through woodland, skirts the edge of the Loe and opens out into farmland, offering miles of riding that suit all ages and levels of confidence. Those keen to venture further can follow coastal routes towards Porthleven Harbour or Gunwalloe, where the scenery changes and the riding becomes more testing. The harbour at Porthleven makes a natural pause, with places to eat and regroup before the return journey.
Lakeside Cycles carries a broad fleet to match this range of terrain. Electric touring bikes and e-mountain bikes sit alongside gravel, road, hybrid and hardtail mountain bikes, with a full selection of children’s cycles. Families are
well catered for, with trailers, tag-a-longs, child seats and Kids Ride Shotgun options available, allowing younger riders to join in safely. Every bike is prepared and serviced by qualified mechanics, which shows in how they perform once out on the trail.
Hiring is straightforward. Riders can book in advance through the online system, selecting bikes and accessories ahead of arrival. Helmets and locks are included as standard, removing small but often overlooked complications. For those staying nearby, delivery to holiday accommodation is offered, making it possible to start riding without first visiting the shop.
Lakeside Cycles appeals to visitors who want to spend their days outdoors without unnecessary fuss. By focusing on sound equipment, local knowledge and thoughtful service, it provides a practical route into one of Cornwall’s most rewarding areas to explore on two wheels.
All equipment included, T&C’s apply. Beautiful cliff top walks, long sandy beaches, gentle rolling countryside mixed with fascinating fishing villages and picturesque harbours make this a truly wonderful holiday destination. For more information
AT TREVASSACK Time out
Created from a spirit of altruism, this facility welcomes and brings a sense of joy to all.
Hidden just 15 minutes from Helston, a few miles south of the Helford River, a hive of accessible activity is bubbling away in the privacy of a spring water-filled quarry.
Off a quiet country lane, it’s a jaw-dropping moment as Trevassack Lake reveals itself, leaving locals wondering why they’ve not been before and holidaymakers coming back for more. Welcome to a community hub of watersports, holidays, events and the dog-friendly lakeside café – open to everyone!
Owned by Cornish charity Children’s Sailing Trust, the activities are run by CST Experiences; sailing, paddle sports, wild swimming, events and venue hire for birthdays, group meet-ups and even weddings, alongside wellbeing classes such as yoga and Pilates held in the lakeside function room. The site is Gold Awardwinning for Accessibility and Inclusivity, being entirely wheelchair- and SENDfriendly, including the water.
Just a stone’s throw from the water, Trevassack Holidays is CST’s exclusive collection of six accessible holiday properties, all with hot tubs set on their decks. Stay a few days and enjoy sunsets over still waters, or book longer and take lessons to earn an RYA qualification – guests receive
a 15% discount on watersports. The icing on the lake? Trevassack Lake Café, where you can enjoy a little TLC with artisan coffee and homemade cakes, indulge in gourmet brunches and daily specials, all cooked-to-order with a view. Open seven days a week to the general public, you can sit inside to dine, eat al fresco on the lakeside deck or brunch at a picnic table on the beach. You’ve just found your new favourite eatery beside the ‘secret’ lake, where profits help support the charity.
As a not-for-profit organisation, visiting Trevassack helps support the work of the charity set up by John Green MBE in 1997. He wanted every child to experience the freedom of sailing on the Helford River – that glorious, life-affirming feeling of carving paths through open water, tacking and gybing with a twitch of the rudder. Now, thousands of children have taken the helm, learning life skills with pride on both the river and the lake.
CHILDREN’S SAILING TRUST
Trevassack Lake, Garras, Helston TR12 6LH 01326 702326
www.cstexperiences.co.uk
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
GALLEN-TREATH GUEST HOUSE
A peaceful village location on the Lizard peninsula with spectacular coastal views. We offer a warm welcome; complete relaxation; home cooking for most diets; comfy en-suite bedrooms and a guest lounge. Your pet’s welcome too. Tel: 01326 280400 Text: 07813 920738 web: www.gallen-treath.com email: gallentreath@gmail.com gallentreathguesthouse
Porthallow, St Keverne, Cornwall TR12 6PL
Shoots of
SUCCESS
Trevena Cross is stepping into an exciting year ahead, embracing the fresh energy of spring 2026.
It’s a particularly significant year too, as the garden centre celebrates its 50th anniversary. So, as the days lengthen and temperatures rise, it’s an ideal time to prepare gardens for the months ahead. The knowledgeable and friendly Trevena Cross team is on hand to offer advice, inspiration and practical support, whether customers are planning a complete transformation or simply intend to give their outdoor space a little care and attention.
To mark this milestone year, Trevena Cross will host a programme of celebrations, special offers and anniversary treats throughout 2026. A new Trevena Cross membership card will also be launched, rewarding loyal customers with exclusive deals, discounts and seasonal offers, available to sign up for in-store or online, with further details announced as the year unfolds via social media.
As we roll into spring, there’s a palpable bristle of anticipation emanating from one of Breage’s longstanding businesses.
The Palm Tree Bistro, set on the heart of the garen centre, is preparing for the warmer months, welcoming guests with daily specials alongside its much-loved classics. Using locally sourced Cornish produce, including ingredients grown on site, the menu celebrates the region, with Sunday roasts remaining a firm favourite. Offering familiar, friendly, efficient customer service in a beautiful, comfortable dining space you can very easily lose an hour or two here! With Easter approaching, spring comes into full bloom, bringing colourful plants, outdoor décor and the much-anticipated annual Easter egg hunt.
TREVENA CROSS
Breage, Helston TR13 9ND 01736 763880
TrevenaCross trevenacross sales@trevenacross.co.uk www.trevenacross.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
SUSTAINABILITYHooked on
Fraser’s Fish and Chip shop has one eye on the pan and the other on the future.
Fish and chips might be a British classic, but at Fraser’s Fish & Chips, there’s nothing old-fashioned about how the future is being fried. While the batter stays crisp and the chips stay golden, Fraser’s is making waves by putting sustainability at the heart of everything it does. There’s no point enjoying great fish and chips today if there are no fish left tomorrow.
Sustainability matters more than ever. Our oceans are under pressure, fish stocks can be overfished, and food waste and energy use all add to the environmental bill. Without more responsible choices, the nation’s favourite takeaway could end up in troubled waters.
At Fraser’s, sustainability starts with smart, local sourcing. They work closely with trusted suppliers like Matthew Stevens of St Ives and Fresh Cornish Fish, bringing in daily catches from local boats chosen for freshness and responsible fishing. They choose suppliers who care about well-managed fisheries and healthier seas, so customers can tuck into their supper knowing it’s been responsibly reeled in. They also select seasonal, highquality potatoes from responsible farms, because great chips start from the ground up.
One of the most sustainable stars on the menu is Coley; and it’s a real catch! Coley
is a plentiful white fish with a mild flavour and flaky texture that works perfectly in batter. Because it’s more abundant than some traditional favourites, it puts less pressure on fish stocks, making it a reel-y responsible choice. Opting for Coley helps spread demand more evenly across species, showing that sustainability can still taste fin-tastic.
Behind the scenes, Fraser’s reduces waste through careful portioning, smart preparation and efficient use of ingredients. Energyefficient equipment keeps the kitchen running smoothly, while recyclable or biodegradable packaging is used wherever possible.
At Fraser’s Fish & Chips, sustainability isn’t a side dish; it’s built into the way they work every day. From responsibly sourced fish to thoughtful waste reduction, they believe great fish and chips should be good for the future as well as the present.
FRASER’S FISH & CHIPS
Western Promenade Rd, Penzance TR18 4HH 01736 339581
80 Godolphin Road, Helston TR13 8GS 01326 761332
www.frasersfishandchips.co.ukd
Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk
Cornwall may be where your holiday begins, but for those in the know, the day that stays with you is the one spent on the Isles of Scilly.
Just beyond the familiar coastline lies a slower rhythm, quieter beaches, clearer water and islands that feel a world away.
Arrive by boat or plane and let the day unfold at its own pace.
So simple to reach.
So hard to leave behind...
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