Food for Thought

Last Wednesday we were treated to a real food adventure.  Now it is fair to say on Tuesday night when I remembered I had booked us all in for a 'Family Foraging Day' with 7th Rise I moaned quite a lot.  The thought of being outside in the pouring rain whilst absolutely shattered was not my idea of fun.  We were craving a duvet day watching Frozen.  What actually happened could not have been further from this.  So, on Wednesday we packed our waterproofs and headed off for the 'lay-by'.  As the place we were heading for is a little bit of a secret so you just get a postcode and a lay-by to park in.  All a bit secret squirrel! We quickly realised we were the only people booked in.  Another big sigh.  Maybe we should of cancelled.  Still we were fully clad in waterproofs, we had paid for it.  We decided to embrace the conditions.

We met Matt our guide for the day and headed off for a 15 minute walk down the fields, spotting a couple of deers on the way to The Lost Cottage.  What an apt name.  The magical little cottage really is straight out of a fairy story, and I doubt changed much in the last 100 years.  7th Rise is brain child of Thom Hunt who continues to make a name for himself both on television and across the country as an expert in all things wild.   Thom's vision is to create a 'space and opportunity for the public to learn about and have incredible authentic experiences in wild environments'.   Whilst Thom is away filming his team have been running family days.

Well what a day.  The Lost Cottage is nestled on the edge of the River, Matt is a fish lover so told us all about the mussel and oyster beds we could see and took us on a tour of the site whilst looking at plants.  Part of the Tregothan Estate the house used to provide the charcoal and lime for the area.  On site there is access to the river, hammocks nestled into the trees, an outside bar, various animal hides in different stages of drying, an outdoor kitchen, a tree house and an abundance of plants to eat.  Matt's knowledge provided an interesting education for us.  Bethany seemed the best forager strapped to my back screaming like a little bird demanding yet more and more blackberries!

After a good hour and half exploring we collected various foraged bits from around the grounds and Matt set about cooking us a truly delicious lunch of hot smoked mackerel with potato cakes and foraged greens. Given our business I always maintain that food tastes better outside, but it really did taste amazing, washed down with  raspberry home brew.  So after our adventure we now have the following to do list: create a hot smoker out of the numerous bbq's we have had left behind this year, build a clay oven (The Lost Cottage has one in the making at the moment) and forage  for the tasty offerings around our amazing coastline.

Rarely do rainy days off become such a memorable experience, if you get a chance to go foraging, I can't recommend it highly enough, especially if you are lucky enough to get to experience the beautiful 7th Rise and their fantastic team.

Puddle jumping at Heligan (again!)

Now, back to reality.  So, it has been a bit damp this week. Saturday was pretty horrible, with thunder, lightning and a lot of rain.The summer is proving to be one of extremes.  Saturday night we were on a weather warning, then come Sunday we were down on the beach getting burnt.  If you are coming to stay in the next few days come expecting all spectrum's of the great British Weather and you will not be disappointed!

As I write this my little heart is still pounding after an adventure that went slightly wrong.  We went to Heligan for our weekly visit today.  A few hours well spent jumping in puddles!  On the way back instead of my usual Caerhays drive to encourage sleep I thought I would explore
Hemmick Beach after reading about it.  Well  I obviously missed the bit about the road to it.  Scary does not to it justice.  For the first time ever I lost my nerve and considered phoning for help!   I attempted a three point turn at one point only to become wedged and decided the sides of the car would have to be sacrificed to the hedges as it got narrower and narrower and narrower.  (if you don't believe me check out google earth as Richard did when I got back). I pulled myself together and continued on the extremely narrow lane to the beach.  What a view.  What a location.  Cornwall at it's best. I highly recommend going to Hemmick.  Just park on the National Trust carpark at the top of the hill to avoid any nervous breakdowns!

Sun, Sea and a sloath

After a slight blip in the weather last week things have changed for the better, it has been glorious and we have been making the most of it.  My twin brother and his wife came to stay for the weekend so we have had an action packed weekend whilst poor Richard worked.  Saturday we started with a trip to Eden Reclamation Yard for a bit of a poke around.  If you are looking for random and beautiful pieces for your house then we recommend a visit.  Kirstie Allsop would love it!

We then walked/biked down to Pentewan.  Jess was on her balance bike.  She tested my nerves to the limit when she came within a foot of skidding off the edge into the river.  For once I think she might have been as scared as I was!  My brother pulled Bethany in the bike trailer.  He is a bit of a serious biker so this was not the pace or the type of bike he is used to but the trail is idea for a steady, easy ride along to the beach.  We had lunch at The Hubbox on the beach.  We can highly recommend it - the burgers and milkshakes were delicious, although part of Pentewan Sands Holiday Park it is open to non residents.  We then chilled on the beach, enjoying a little paddle and Jess dug a boat for her and Uncle Daniel to sit in. Uncle Daniel does not like sand!

Sunday we headed to Newquay Zoo as Alex, my sister in law, adopted a Sloath for Christmas so we had to meet him/her.  Funny little creatures, they just seem to sleep a lot!  If I am to be reincarnated as an animal I would not mind being a Sloath. The zoo was busy, but as per our last visit it was a very enjoyable day with a little bit of face painting and animal petting to top it off.

This week sees Fowey Regatta taking place and on Thursday one of my favourites - the Red Arrows put on a stunning flypast  through the estuary.  I am going to be brave and take the girls to see it - I am hoping they will like it!  If you are intending on going just remember it gets very busy and it is best to park in one of the field car parks.

Following on from last weeks blog about what it is like running a holiday park I thought I would share my day with you.  Today it is glorious hot, baking in fact.  I started the day working down here whilst Richard spent some time the the girls as he has not had a day off since last week.  He came down at 11 then the girls and I headed to The Lost Gardens of Heligan.  We took our picnic and did the Lost Summer Trail which was lovely and, although busy around the entrance it didn't feel too bad once in the grounds.  Bethany, 'Miss Independent', choose to walk about half the way round, which given she is only 16 months is a long way so it was a slow but very enjoyable walk.  I can highly recommend it for guests whether you have children or not and now it is dog friendly the whole family can enjoy it.

We didn't even get out of the car park before Bethany was fast asleep so I turned left out of the car park and headed towards Gorran.  Just at the village sign for Gorran Highlanes there is a turning to Caerhays on the right.   After a 2 mile drive you stumble across the stunning Caerhays Castle which over looks the small but perfectly formed cove. Another one of my favourite haunts and by this stage of the journey Jessica was asleep too so the nursery rhymes were able to be turned on and Steve Wright back on!  Caerhays looked stunning with tide on it's way out and a busy cafe serving delicious food.  This dog friendly beach is one you can go to for the whole day and everyone will enjoy.

So whilst our days and weeks may be long at the moment, it is pretty cool that we can just pop to amazing gardens and then go for a drive to the sea, sometimes you need a hit of the sea just to feel good about the world.  We are so lucky it is on our doorstep and part of our daily routine.

Whilst we are basking in sunshine it is hard to imagine Autumn is around the corner.  Autumn to Cornwall normally means it gets even hotter.  Last September and October were glorious, in fact it was hotter than August.  Throughout September we are offering our great seven nights for the price of 5 which means you can stay for as little as £40 for seven nights.  Give us a call for more details.

If you fancy a little more luxury we are offering all Little Winnick guests 10% off Richard's Mum and Dad's holiday cottages, just up from the villahe of Polgooth, St Austell.  Tregongeeves Farm  Cottages are seven luxury cottages open throughout the year and boast a heated in door pool, games rooms, animals to feed, tennis court and much more.  All you need to do is use this special code at the checkout when you make a booking online or mention you would like the discount by calling and speaking to Judith. (Richard's Mum).

10% off code:  BDVFP

Holidays where happy memories are made

Reuben

We are often asked what it is like running a holiday park and the answer is - fantastic.  Right now we are at our busiest and it is a case of making hay while the sun shines whilst juggling 'normal' life at the same time.  We become hermits from our friends, and this week even Jess's birthday party has been postponed (twice) due to us having to cover shifts, that said it is absolutely brilliant to met so many people.  As I type this in between a huge check in and departure day I have the pass the parcel bits under the desk ready to wrap during a quiet 5 minutes, as the party is back on for this evening!

One of my favourite things is seeing the children arrive, shy whilst their parents check them in, only to make dozen of friends from all over the country and in some cases from all over the world.  There is something magical about camping and how it unites people, if it is raining campers discuss the rain, if it is sunny often a beer or two is shared over the BBQ and even a few tears shed when it is time to say goodbye.  In the middle of our third season here we take much pleasure in watching the children returning another year older, wiser and getting bigger all the time.  Our two girls also love meeting new friends, admiring the many bikes on the park and Jessica's case pressing the buttons on the till.  (I had brought her a play till for her birthday but that is being returned - it is not as much fun as the real thing!).  This week I was treated to a 'play'.  Two of our young returning guests who met last season whilst staying with their parents put on a show for us with a selection of songs and mad returns.  They made tickets for it and even provided the adults with chairs and the refreshments of lollipops - a brilliant effort.

At the moment it is not just the guests making me smile, it is indeed the animal staying here too.  I thought I heard it all when I blogged about Timothy (the Bearded Dragon) and Herman (the tortoise).  But this week Reuben made an appearance - a huge rabbit who goes about on this lead!  He was a delight and


quite a hit with many guests - especially Jess who has two 'bunnies' who go everywhere with her.

My new fav mug!

Today we waved goodbye to the Lincolnshire Centre Rally who have been with us in the Rally Field for two weeks.  By all accounts it was a brilliant rally, in one guests words 'the best we have ever been on'.  With craft events, a bouncy castle, party bags, cream teas and pasties it sounds like everyone who attended has a fantastic time.  We hope to see you all back soon and thank for our beautiful mug, it is too nice to have tea in so I have put some flowers on our desk).  We are now taking rally bookings for 2017 as 2016 is getting busy in the rally field so please do get in contact if you would like to book in a rally.

Nanna & Grandad with our girls

My Mum and Dad have been visiting this week, they live in Norfolk.  It has been a huge help as they have taken great delight looking after the girls (especially as Richard and I have not been there stopping them spoiling them or indulging them in sweet treats!!).  They have had a real adventure going to Sticker Vintage Steam Rally, a couple of days on the beach, a trip to Bodmin & Wentford Railway.  On our day off we all went to Trevaskis Farm.  It is a 'pick your own farm' with animals to look at and a brilliant restaurant.  The dessert counter is like something from the 80's.  The selection is immense and the portion size is out of this world.  As for the pick your own, you pick whatever is in season so I think there were strawberries, raspberries, broad beans, peas, red currants and gooseberries available.  We went for the strawberry and raspberry option.  Good job they didn't weigh Bethany before and after as she consumed quite a few - she was in heaven as she loves strawberries!

What's on this week:
9 August - Porthleven Lifeboat Day
12 Augut - Toddler Tate - A toddler event at The Tate, St Ives
14 August - St Ives Annual Raft Race
14 - 16 August - Cornwall Steam & Country Fair, Stithian Showground

'Sunshine' on a rainy day

"Sunshine on a rainy day

Makes my soul, makes my soul

Trip Trip Trip Away..."

And you know what today my heart and soul tripped away as my 15 month old reminded me that there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes.  She was that little ray of sunshine on a rainy day.  Although she has been walking a good three months she has not seen big puddles (a good indication of how good the weather has been!).  Today she was utterly amazed by the puddles.  I cannot put into words the shear joy and delight she had towards puddles. She started touching them, sitting in them and then jumping in them.  She obtained a small crowd outside reception, as the joy and excitement was infectious.  When do we loose that love of jumping in puddles? Or in fact the love of the rain?  It is, after all, at this time of year warm rain! So with that in mind, I have complied some wet weather ideas for you...just incase you get the odd damp spell during your holidays!

1. Jump in puddles.  You are NEVER too old to stick on a pair of wellies, or even better take your shoes and socks off and jump in puddles until your hearts content.  Don't just watch the children - do it yourself.  (there will be a prize for the best picture of puddle jumping during the summer holidays - post them on Facebook)
2. Forest School Adventures at Cardinham Woods - join Claire and her team for what are brilliant sessions exploring the outdoors, eating scrummy things and developing outdoor skills, all around the campfire.  (we go and these are BRILLIANT!).  The weather will not spoil your fun, the more mud the better.  Daily sessions throughout the school hols.
3. St Austell Brewery Tour - well worth a visit, all indoors and you get to sample their produce at the end!  Booking is a must as the tours get very busy.
4. Bodmin and Wentford Railway - Enjoy a ride on a steam train.  Can you beat the smell of a steam train?  If you fancy stretching your legs get off at Bodmin Parkway and walk the old coach road into the grounds of Lanhydrock.
5. National Maritime Museum - I used to groan at going to museums as a child.  This would have been my idea of heaven though; lots to do, touch, try, experiment with and learn.  A really interactive place for young and old, situated in the vibrant town of Falmouth, also well worth a visit,
6. Mevagissey to Fowey Ferry - we went on the ferry on a glorious day and got soaked from the sea spray so logically you might as well go on it in the rain and you will not notice the spray.  Treat yourself to lunch at Sam's - the burgers are brilliant.
7. Multi Activity Days - 8-14 years old - Polkyth Leisure Centre - a fun day of activities from swimming to tag darts - sounds like great fun.
8. Kidsworld - a huge indoor play centre in Par, it has a skytrail, climbing wall, dodgems, indoor play, sand and water play and a treehouse scramble.
9. Take a bus trip - bus no. 24 stops right outside the park, so why not take a trip to St Austell Bus & Train Station where you can access connections across the county.  You can purchase a weeks bus ticket for unlimited travel for £25, which works out £3.57 per day to roam around the county.
10. Drive to the other coast.  More often than not, if it is raining here then the North coast will be basked in sunshine.  Each valley seems to have it's own micros climate so go for an explore and hunt out the sun.  Or just stay put and puddle jump!

Reviewed & Rewarded

All our hard work building brand new facilities on the park this winter have been rewarded with our latest AA Quality Standard 2015 inspection as we have been upgraded to Four Pennants.  We are so pleased and grateful that the inspectors liked the new facilities.  They were particularly impressed with the cleanliness of the new facilities and commented on the impressive family bathroom and disabled facilities.  Coupled with this we have had some lovely reviews on Pitchup.com, ukcampsite.co.uk, and Facebook.  If you stay with us please do leave us a review - we read them all and they help other guests when booking to stay.

This week has been a mixed bag of weather.  Monday we were hit by high winds, which saw me having to try and remove a tree from the middle of the road on the way home after the evening in reception.  Obviously myself and the two other people who tried to move the tree were never realistically going to lift a tree...but we tried!  Luckily cars could just squeeze past it.  After the storm has come the sun.  It has been glorious.  On Wednesday we walked to Charlestown and had a lovely lunch at The Rashleigh; Richard had a burger and lobster and I had a crab and lobster sandwich.  We can highly recommend the Rashleigh, they cater well for everyone with a lovely children's menu and enclosed garden suitable for dogs and children.  We then walked on down to the harbour and enjoyed an ice cream on the beach.

It really is an ideal time to visit Cornwall especially if you prefer it when it is a bit quieter, but want to make the most of the gloriously long days.  If you are bringing your four legged friends with you why not make the most of the local area.

Dog Friendly Beaches:

Caerhays Beach - or Porthluney as it is also known is a lovely bay, with the Caerhays Castle as it back drop.  The settled cove is often very warm even when there is a breeze as it is nicely tucked away.

Par Beach - This long sandy beaches has a number of carparks and toilet facilities.  The beautiful beach is a short drive but well worth an explore.

Polstreath Beach - for those more adventurous and after a quiet secluded beach then venture to Polstreath,  Accessed via the South West Coastal Path, this side of Mevagissey it is a bit of a walk and the final descent to the beach is via steep steps, but the walk will reward you with a quiet, dog friendly haven.

Dog Friendly Attractions:

The Lost Gardens of Heligan - walkable from the campsite via teh cycle trail, up the old coach road to Heligan House.  The walk is all up hill and takes about 40 minutes, but it will be all down hill on the way home!  Dogs are welcomed at Heligan.

The Eden Project - whilst The Eden Project says it is dog friendly it is worth noting that you cannot take dogs into the Biomes (the big greenhouses) and as this is the main attraction you will miss quite a lot.  You can of courses take them around the vast outdoor gardens which in itself will take the good part of a day.

Lappa Valley - a family steam train attraction with steam train rides, a huge array of play equipment and rides for young and old to enjoy are dog friendly - even allowing logs to travel on the trains.

Dog Friendly Pubs:

The Ship Inn, Pentewan is walking distance from the park down the Pentewan Cycle Trail.  About a 20 minute away, along a flat wheelchair and pushchair friendly track.  If you are going to come home late take a torch as the trail is very, very dark with no street lights!

The Polgooth, a good 45 minute walk away or a 10 minute drive away this proper Cornish Inn provides excellent food along with good Cornish ales.  Well worth a visit.

The Fountain Inn - Mevagissey is a true Cornish fishman's pub, although small it provides a brilliant atmosphere, great food and a warm welcome.

Spring is springing!

It is finally here - Spring started on 1st March officially and according to some it will be barbecue weather next week which is so exciting.  And I have to say when the sun is out it is glorious and so many of Cornwall's Tourist Attractions are coming to life.  Jessica and I had lunch at Heligan last week, not only was the food delicious but the lambs they have to pet are adorable.  There are also pigs onsite now too.  We also popped into The Eden Project recently.  That was a lovely day out with so much for children to do and of course dogs are now welcome at both.  

We are busy bees with only a few weeks until opening.  We are cracking on with sprucing up the early arrivals area with new tarmac and the ground work is being done for additional site lighting.  There is also a great deal of painting going on and ordering of new site maps and such like.  Today I will be turning my mind to the shop and getting the huge shopping list ready to restock in the coming weeks and I shall begin the arduous task of choosing ice creams for the freezer!

Perhaps most exciting is the news that we have been granted planning permission for improvements to the exisiting toilet block.  Whilst the facilities that we currently have are very good, with great showers and very clean and tidy, especially the current new block, we would like to consolidate everything under one roof and provide more facilities for our disabled guests and a family bathroom suite to make life easier for parents.  So with that in mind at the end of the coming season we shall be making major changes to what we currently have.  We will have full plans on display at Reception throughout the season so please do come and have a look and ask us any questions you may have.

Cornwall is open for business

'Cornwall is open for business' that is the message for VisitCornwall and one we fully endorse -although we are not open for a few more weeks.  Weather seems to be the main content of my blogs these days and it is hardly surprising, however we are, thankfully doing okay.  As I have previously said the drainage is working a treat and we have little standing water.  The vast amount of work early in the close season in the bottom field has paid off it would appear and the entire site is draining much better.  Outside work has been stopped since before Christmas, however we are confident the weather will change for the better soon and we can crack on with improving the lighting around the site and other outside projects.

This week has been the worst week of weather to hit us.  On Wednesday the rain, hail and wind was unbelievable.  Jessica and I walked to playgroup at 100 miles an hour as we were blown along all protected in full waterproofs!  Today is pretty bad too.  I am sitting at home in the office watching the trees bend in two and the hail come in side ways.  However Carol Kirkwood, who we now watch every morning without fail promises a better week next week so we can look forward to that.

I am feeling a bit spring like despite it all.  The nights are without doubt drawing out now - we have light until 5.40pm and the bulbs are battling against the odds to come up and when it is nice the Cornish sun has a real warmth about it too - you can't help but smile when you feel that warmth.  You see that is one of the many things we love about Cornwall is that we seem to feel the warmth of the sun first and the first signs of spring are always early and offer us hope that there is warmer weather just around the corner.  Lets face we have got to have a stunning summer after the last few weeks - so get booking to avoid disappointment!

Online booking is LIVE!

We have now returned after a two weeks away up country - one week in London and one week in Cricket St Thomas - which was just wonderful and we feel almost fully charged.  Jessica is being looked after by Granny so I have the afternoon to crack on at Little Winnick.

Despite being closed we still have lots to keep us busy here.  As I type I am in reception doing the blog and updating the website and information sheets for when you arrive whilst Richard is busy tucked up in the back office paying bills and sorting out energy suppliers.  We are both snuggled in our winter coats as a wooden reception building is not the warmest at this time of year!

Perhaps the thing I have been most excited about over the recent weeks is the new booking system and we are pleased as punch to say you can now book directly online and make payments through the system.  To say it will make life easier is an understatement.  Of course you can still give us a call at anytime to make a booking or with queries but hopefully you will find booking online and checking availability a help.  We do very much look forward to welcoming you and your families to Little Winnick.

One of our guests who flew to Cornwall in their own plane took the picture of the site which we are so very grateful for.  You can see how well we are situated to access the wonderful Kings Wood and miles of paths that connect to the South West Coastal Path and down to Pentewan Beach.

Work in the bottom field is finally nearing completion after months of digging, flattening, chopping and general tidying.  Pictured is the work in progress - it looks a lot different now.

Richard and his Dad have spent this week digging holes to establish better drainage around the arrival area. At times the work has been like a needle in a haystack with no plans to help however they have successfully managed to locate all their drains.

Whilst it is a little bit quieter we are getting to enjoy the festivities around Cornwall.  St Austell had its lights switch on last week and I have to say it is looking lovely.  We also went to Fowey Christmas light switch on and then their market the following day which was very Cornish and lovely!

2014 seems like a long time away but it is approaching fast and it is wonderful to start to plan days out for the future or perhaps even a holiday?  Visit Cornwall is a brilliant source for what is on when so why not take a peek and plan a stay with us around one of the many foodie, literary or traditional Cornish events that happen throughout the year.

Bank Holiday Fun in the Sun

Well, despite it being a bank holiday it looks like the weather is not going to rain on our parade.  After a mixed day yesterday today it is bright with a slight breeze and tomorrow is set to get even better; which is fantastic news for our full camping field - and for our guests in the Rally Field.  On site we have the normal touring field but we are also very lucky to boast a Rally Field too.  The large field is a fantastic space for people to gather for celebrations, club events, reunions or just for a weekend away.  We already have a number of caravan and motor club rallies booked in for 2014, friends coming for a long weekend in the field, a possible football tournament and even interest in a wedding being held there.  If you would like to use the Rally Field please do get in contact with either Heidi or Richard who can discuss options with you.

As the bank holiday comes and goes we say goodbye to the summer season which has been just fantastic and welcome in our seven nights for the price of five which begins from Sunday 1st September.  That means over the coming weeks you could stay seven nights for as little as £40.  Please do give us a call or email us if you would like to make a booking with us.

September is a wonderful time to visit Cornwall, not only is it quieter but it is also often very warm too.  Dates to put in your diary include:

• 8th September - World Bellyboard Championships at St Agness
• 12th - 15th September - Heritage Open Days with free entry to
• Lanhydroch
• Gribbin Daymark
• Glendurgan
• Godolphin Garden
• Porthcurno Telegraph Museum
• East Pool Mine, to name but a few
• 14th September - St Ives September Fest, with exhibitions, poetry, walks and festivals
• 21st September - Roseland Fesitval - a community festival celebrating all local things.

a wall of ice cream

Many things happen in this job that make you have a smile, today it was the wall of ice cream boxes that I looked up to after processing a booking - 18 boxes to be precise, now I know I am short but I couldn't see over the top of them.  We stock the utterly delicious Callestick Farm Ice Cream, and despite my best efforts we sold out this week so I have ordered  a few extras to ensure that doesn't happen again.  I have also ordered in the weather to accompany the ice cream.  We also have daily bread, milk, and Kittows bacon, burgers and sausages. The smell of the bacon in the morning is so lovely!

I have to tell you we are pretty overwhelmed at the moment with the amount of bookings and people we have on site.  Obviously we had hoped we could make Little Winnick a success and had a few plans up our sleeves, but in our first season we never expected things to take off quite as they have, and to all of you who have come and stayed or who are coming, thank you, we really do appreciate your custom.  We are operating at all most capacity at the moment, which is fantastic and I can not put into words the atmosphere around the site.  It is heart warming to see how quickly children who have just arrived, make new friends and play together like they have known each other forever - nationality, language or age seems no barrier for children playing together.  The play park is being well used, and the box of toys, sports equipment and games field are proving hugely popular.

There is lots on in Cornwall in the coming days if you are coming to stay.  The Charlestown Regatta gets under way next week, with a children's sports evening on Tuesday and much more lined up.  If castles and knights are more your thing then head over to Pendennis Castle for Medieval Jousting on 7th - 8th August.  Or if your prefer admiring horses then why not pop along to the Tregony Heavy Horse show on the 11th August.  A particular treat coming up is the St Ewe Country Fair.  Despite being a very small village the Fair is a highlight of the local calendar and well worth a visit.

If you would like to have a care free holiday why not hire you bikes while staying from Pentewan Cycle Hire, they will deliver your bikes to Little Winnick so you can go off exploring.  Or how about walk the Coastal Path which you can access by walking to Pentewan - if your legs aren't up for walking back you could always walk a section of it and then hop on the bus back!

This weekend sees Richard and I have a well deserved (even if I say so myself) day off.  As our youngest staff member (our daughter) turns one on Saturday.  So despite making her work on her birthday we shall be  off on a family day somewhere on Sunday, our final destination is yet to be decided.               

Summer season begins

The summer season well and truly starts this weekend with the children breaking up and what stunning weather to welcome you with.  Having run River Valley Holiday Park for almost 20 years as a family we have a wealth of experience and love the summer season - even if is a little busy.  So you can be reassured that when booking with us we can offer you all sorts of nuggets of information gathered throughout our lives here and from visitors; including interesting places to visit, places off the beaten track, secluded beaches, how to get cheap entrance tickets to attractions, local garages should you need one (hopefully you won't), camping advice and numerous local walks.

With so many of you arriving in the coming weeks I guess now is a good time to introduce the team we have.  So, the Clemo family own the site, made up of John & Judith and their grown up children Alison (who looks after River Valley) and Richard.   You will see John and Judith around the site. I am Heidi and I am married to Richard, and along with our daughter Jessica who will be one in a few weeks, we are at Little Winnick most of the time. Steve & Jude are our on site wardens who live in the park home with their dog Tia and are always very happy to help.  We really look forward to welcoming you to the site.

So how can you get the most out of Cornwall?  Firstly, we are always here to help, with reception open 8.30am - 8.30pm we can point in the direction that you are thinking of heading - even look up things such as whether the Mevagissey to Fowey Ferry is running or as proper locals, give you directions which your Sat Nav might miss!

You might like to consider planning you stay a little and booking things in advance to save some pennies. For example you can book Eden Project tickets here and save nearly £10 per ticket.  Or if you are thinking about visiting some of Cornwall's stunning gardens pick up a Great Gardens of Cornwall leaflet in reception. You pay full price with the leaflet at your first visit then after that you get discounted rates at all other featured gardens.  As Eden is the most expensive visit one of the other gardens then head there to enjoy a discounted rate! To see the featured gardens click here.

A number of places offer a 7 day ticket once you have visited one, such at Newquay Zoo, Kidworld, Springfield Fun Park and Pony Centre or an annual past if you Gift Aid at The Maratime Museum in Falmouth or The Eden Project.

Don't forget if need supplies for your days out we have freshly prepared sandwiches, fresh bread, rolls, cakes, drinks, cheese, tuna, crisps and much more do keep you going on day.  Perhaps most importantly in this weather we have a very well stocked ice fridge.

HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT

The heat wave continues in Cornwall and we love it.  But we must let you know that bookings are coming in thick and fast so if you want to come and stay over the summer holidays book soon to avoid disappointment.  If you want to see what others think of us then have a look at UK Campsites or Pitchup.com

I am sorry I have not blogged for a week or two - I was given a week off to visit my parents in Norfolk.  I flew from Norwich to Newquay - it took less than an hour and was brilliant!  Why not consider visiting us by plane or train

to avoid all the traffic?  I took the picture opposite of St Austell Bay - I was a little gutted we didn't fly over the site to be honest.

So what is the news from Little Winnick?  Well the ground works has been completed for the new barrier we are installing.  Guests will be issued you a barrier pass in exchange for a £10 refundable deposit with the barrier being positioned on the entrance and exit to the touring field.  This will give you added security and ensure the site remains lovely and quiet without too many cars - many guests have already expressed delight at this improvement.

I also have news on Shelia the chicken - she is sitting on some eggs and has been for two weeks so we could hear the patter of tiny claws early next week - although this very hot weather could make it really tough for the chicks to escape their shells, so keep everything crossed for her.

We love people to have fun here so we have installed goal posts on the rally field, so you can enjoy a good kick about away from the tents - or why not borrow the rounders equipment from reception and have an old fashioned game - we may even organise a game or two in the coming weeks.

Not a good place for the diet

So I have concluded the Little Winnick reception/shop is the worse place to be when on a diet.  I made a Victoria Sponge that has a layer of some of the local black current jam in it and scones using Trewithen Dairy yoghurt.  I have never made scones with yoghurt before but my mother in law (who some of you may have met at the site) assured me it was how she did it each week for the cottages - she was right it is amazing  - this is the recipe in case you want to make some.  Anyway, it means I had to have a slice a cake this morning (quality control) and it is only 11am.

As I was uploading things for the website and blog I was amazed by the super fast broadband, it still amazes me how quick it is.  This is true across the whole park which is covered by 5 points to ensure you can access the WiFI wherever you are.  If you would like to connect up just pop into reception to purchase log in codes.

My first guest in reception this morning made an interesting comment as I was rushing around unloading the papers, bringing in the fresh milk and sorting out the bread.  He said 'I bet you can't wait until this place closes and we (the guests) all go home'.  My answer was NO!'.  We love our lives, it is a lifestyle that is our families way of life.  We fail to get through a meal without debating things or making plans.  We thrive off seeing guests enjoying the park and everything that is near by - the park feels like it has lost it's soul a little in the winter when it is empty.  On rare summer days out we are busy snapping pictures for the blogs and bursting with enthusiasm to share with people.  Next week we are going out for Richard's birthday to Bedruthan Steps for lunch- a very child friendly local hotel that does yummy lunches...I will update you what it is like in due course.

Talking of the winter and the rest of the season (obvioulsy not meaning the two are the same!) we have had interest recently in seasonal pitches for the rest of the season and storage over the winter.  Currently we are offering seasonal pitches 1st July -1st November with winter storage for £1400 on a hard standing pitch - this includes your electric and use of the facilities.  Please give Heidi or Richard a call if you are interested.                                                                          

Cornwall - the new Hollywood

Cornwall is set to star in not one, but two feature films this summer.  Out now is 'Summer in February' featuring Dan Stevens who starred in Downton Abbey.  The film is based on a true story about a colony of artists in Cornwall before the First World War.   We are seeing the film tomorrow so will keep you posted as to what we think of it - we have heard only good reviews so far!

Then in August Richard Curtis's new film About Time, which was filmed around St Austell last summer will be released.  About Time is the latest in Richard Curtis's long line of rom-coms; based around a time travelling lover the film features local beaches such as Port Holland and Porthpean House.  I am a bit of a Richard Curtis fan so I can't wait.

I sometimes think we could make a film out of running a campsite - no two days are the same and no two guests are the same.  So what is it like for us on a day to day basis?  We begin by collecting the papers that guests have ordered, then we bring in the mornings bread and milk delivery.  We stock fresh bread from a local bakery in Mevagissey - it is so yummy, even if I do say so.  We then turn our attentions to bookings - usually we have had some enquiry's over night so we crack on with allocating them pitches and confirming what they would like. Then throughout the morning their is a steady stream of people visiting the shop - both from on site and people popping in from near by sites and off the trail.

A quick check of the toilet block usually results in us returning very hungry as the smell of bacon waffs across the site.  As of this week we will be stocking Kittows bacon - if you are a bacon fan you have to try it - it is the best bacon I have ever had.  Around 10.30ish is our coffee time, and time to take stock of the morning thus far and plan the rest of the day. The rest of the morning can be one of many jobs; cutting the grass, strimming, meanding bits and bobs, stocking the shop, paying wages and bills, meeting and greeting guests.  After lunch we begin the big job of cleaning 24 toilets, 32 hand basins, 12 showers, 6 sinks, and 5 floors.  I have just about perfected the art of getting a streak free shower cubicle...after lots of practise!  This usually takes around 2-3 hours depending on the guests.  Then we head back to recpetion to check in people who usually turn up off the road or tend to those in the shop. Then we need a rest!

Something fishy going on

Guests are brilliant!  Today a guest walked into reception with three trout for me; he caught them yesterday.  I have always wanted to try proper fresh fish. By that I mean, just landed and cooked within a few days. I am currently swatting up on what to do with a whole fish via YouTube - my kitchen might end up a bit of a mess by the end of the evening but I am hopeful I might be able to gut them...maybe.  Surprisingly down here it is not that easy to get fresh fish over the counter.  The best place to head to is Mevagissey where there is a little stall on the quay selling fish caught that day.

Then there are the green trucks/tanks/very impressive vehicles that left this morning.  With a top speed of 42mph and real diesel guzzlers it is no wonder their owners took to their tandem  to get anyway.  For some reason the big green trucks made me smile every time I walked past them - I just hope you don't get stuck behind them.

One of my favourite  jobs is to walk around the site.  Steve, one of the site wardens does this a lot with his dog Tia, but I love doing it admiring all the different styles and equipment people have.  Last night we watched with a rye smile the Apprentice where the candidates had to sell at the Caravan Show.  Of course down here you don't have to go far to get all your essential camping items.  Within walking distance is White River Outdoor who are one of the best supplies of camping and caravan equipment in the area.

A bit of good news for the TV fans amongst you, we have install aerial points to a number of pitches so you can get perfect signal when on site.  If you would like a pitch with a aerial point please do let us know.

PS it may have rain over night but it is glorious today, really sunny again - I have completely the wrong clothes on today!

Dog friendly all season

Having watched our dog being born (he was a puppy from my Nan's dog - our Dad said we could have a dog if there was a black and white one - Henry was the runt of the litter and had a black white tail!) he became embedded into our family life.  We had 18 wonderful years with him and he really became part of our family.  Currently our family here in Cornwall have Ginnie who is a scatty black Labrador - abused as a pup we rescued her, but she is still very scared and frightened of things however she loves running around on glorious walks.

Basically we love dogs and welcome them with open arms here at Little Winnick.  With direct access from the site to miles of walks whether through the Kingswood, on the Pentewan Cycle Trail, or National Cycle Way or onto the Coastal Path your four legged friend(s) will be spoilt for choice.

We even have a dog walking field, where you can let your dog have a good old run around and explore.  Within walking distance you can enjoy a meal at The Ship Inn which welcomes dogs, or slightly further away is the Polgooth Inn - both serve fantastic food.

We hope to welcome you and your four legged family members soon!

Egg-static

Doreen or Shelia laid an egg!!  This is such exciting news, I am certain this is the start of lots of eggs (hopefully!).

So weeks like this is while we live in Cornwall.  Summer has most certainly arrived here.  The days are warm with a gentle cooling breeze and the evenings are glorious.  I am working this week, but tomorrow day I shall mostly be having a picnic on the beach - perhaps punctuated with a little paddle just to cool off.  We are either going to Pentewan beach which you can walk to from the site or we might head for Porthpean.  Both are pretty quiet and ideal for children.  The more adventurous of you can bike to Porthpean from the site - ask us for directions if you would like to pop there.  Then Wednesday we are having a BBQ.  In the day I shall walk up from Little Winnick to Lobbs Farm Shop.  It is one of my favourite farm shops and does brilliant meat.  Their meat balls are amazing - and easy to cook on a camping stove it you are staying :-).

This week also sees the Royal Cornwall Show - a must for the locals to meet each other and a fantastic insite in the Cornwall way of life.  At present I am not going but someone from the Clemo clan will be going so hopefully pictures will follow next week.

Snap shot of bank holiday weekend

As promised here are some of the pictures from the bank holiday.  We had a brilliant weekend, it was lovely to meet lots of you and see all your lovely tents, vans, motor homes, pets and children.  My favouirte was the VW camper van with matching trailer!

This weekend is a lot quieter as half term comes to an end and the children return to school.  As I mentioned in the last blog though we are now offering 7 nights for the price of 5, meaning you could have a weeks stay with us from £55.  

After a mixed week of weather, I can confirm as I sit here in the office typing it is glorious - blue skies with a slight breeze.  Fingers crossed it stays that way as my brother gets married this weekend (we are very excited!).

Bonkers bank holiday

Wow, what a bank holiday weekend!  With well over fifty pitches booked out the park really came to life (and brought a little proud tear to our eyes in doing so).  I have left my camera at home, but I promise some pictures soon.  With a VW party in, which was connected to the Cornwall Camper Company, a local group and many people making the most of the fab weather the site felt like it had found it's old mojo.  Bread, milk, papers, homemade cakes, retro sweets and ice creams were flying off the shelves faster than we could restock them - we hope to see many of you who celebrated the bank holiday back again soon.  Don't forget if you did stay you can leave a review for fellow campers at UK Campsites or Pitchup.com.

With the busy bank holiday out of the way our attentions turn back to the 'to do' list which we do seem to be making some head way on.  Last week we drained the swimming pool...we didn't find anything exciting at the bottom of the murky water.  There is some debate around the family dinner table as to the plans for it - we will keep you posted when we know.  We hope to have the new toilet block painted in the next few weeks having painted the old toilet block prior to opening.  The laundry was officially opened on Friday (we forgot the ribbon to cut!) we have washers that cost £3 a go and dryers that are 50p a dry.  Or you could make the most of the washing lines and the glorious Cornish sunshine. Other than that it is just small jobs left on the list - for now!

Does anyone know how to encourage chickens to lay?  Bernard, Shelia and Dorren have been on strike recently.  They are malting so we think they might be a little stressed and will hopefully start laying again soon.  Any suggestions welcome though on a back of a post card - or email them to us!

Don't forget we have our seven nights for the price of five offer running from 1st June - 12th July - why not make the most of it and come and have a weeks stay with us?

Half term ideas

With the half term upon us it is time to start thinking up ideas of things to keep little people happy.  Here is my top ten:

1. Learn all about the Beast of Bodmin Moor at Lanhyrock.  Should be fun for children and adults alike!
2. On the 26th May visit Kernow Fest at The Heartlands in Redruth.  Not only is there a free event celebrating all things Cornish, Heartlands is also home to the mothership of play areas
3. Have a little pamper at The Cornwall.  A short drive from Tregongeeves the Spa is well worth a visit and a great escape from little people.
4. Visit Lappa Valley.  We went before we had children with friends who had a two year at the time - now it is a firm favourite of ours - where children come first and life is all about having fun.
5. Enjoy breakfast at The Eden Cafe and then take a stroll around St Austell.  The breakfasts are a real treat and the family friendly cafe means you can relax in a safe environment.
6. Visit the impressive National Maritime Museum in Falmouth - with Seahorse Rocks activities for children you can make creatures inspired by the Cornish Coast.  For lunch why not indulge in a hearty feast at Gylly's Beach Cafe.
7. Visit the small precinct of shops opposite Tesco's known as Holmbush.  Here you will find the best local butchers (in our opinion) selling great pasties - why not pick up some 'bangers' for the BBQ whilst you are there, grab a cake from Niles (custard doughnuts are our favourite), then head out for a walk.  We recommend visiting the bluebells at Luxulyan Valley at the moment.
8. Explore Porthpean Beach.  This local haunt is small secluded beach with rock pools to explore - it's an ideal location for a picnic.
9. Hire a bike for the day and cycle the Camel Trail.  You can cycle into Padstow and enjoy the small fishing village without the hassle of finding somewhere to park.
10. Do nothing at all!  Just relax at Little Winnick with a glass of wine in your hand whilst the BBQ smokes away in the back ground - perfect.