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!

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

A feast full of fun

This week sees the welcome return of the Mevagissey Feast Week.  A full programme of events is available from reception along with a summary on the daily notice board.  Highlights include the Fish Procession, the amazing Mevagissey Male Voice Choir,  a fishing boat race, crabbing and the finale of fireworks from the harbour.

Many moons ago Richard and I went to the Carnival, it was fantastic watching the processions through the small streets  - it really is worth a visit.  As for the fireworks which go off over the harbour - I still maintain they are the best I have ever seen and I am a lover of fireworks!  It is a late one but it is well worth it.  We are having a rare night out on Saturday for dinner, and then watching the fireworks as a birthday treat for Richard.

I say rare, but this week we were out at one of the 'Eden Sessions' watching Paloma Faith.  It was a stunning evening with great music and company.  Cornwall is a fantastic place to catch a little bit of culture outside, especially with the amazing long evenings.

For a bit of alfresco culture why not visit one of the following:

9th July - Spandau Ballet at the Eden Project
21st July, The Jungle Book at Pentille Castle
25th July - 23rd August - 946 from  Kneehigh Theatre at The Lot Gardens Of Heligan
29th July - The Manificent 3 from Miracle Theatre at Pencarrow House
19th August - Mama Mia outdoor cinema at Caerhays Beach

There are rumours flying around that we are in for a bit of a heatwave,  It looks like Cornwall is set to bake next week.  We are full to the brim next weekend but if you fancy a spot of Cornish sun then why not head down before the schools break up in mid July to make the most of the fantastic weather?

Here at Little Winnick we are pretty full at the moment, with only a hanful of pitches available over the next ten days - it really is lovely to see.  Our wardens who live on the park are away at the moment, and we always like to have someone on the park so we are camping (I know, twice in a week!).  This time it is all of us.  We have stretched to an electric hook up this week so we can listen to Glastonbury on the radio when the girls are in bed whilst listening to the river and watching the stars.  Sounds Lovely doesn't it?!  It is!  I am testing out a new canping kitchen and gas stove - so far so good.  We had sausages last night and bacon this morning.  It was in fact sweet cured bacon from Kittow Butchers who supply our shop.  Wow it was good!  We are stocking their sausages and bacon in the shop.

Little Winnick Virgins

Until last night we were in fact Little Winnick virgins!  We had never stayed on the park, as we have a house near by and wardens who live on the park all the time.  However I undertook a 'Mum & Daughter' adventure and Jess and I pitched our tent and barbecued our sausages for her very first camping adventure at 2 1/2!  It was brilliant.  Richard stayed at home with our youngest as she is not very well and it turned out I got more sleep than him!  I was slightly nervous about being the 'noisy person on the pitch next door' as Jess is yet to master the art of volume control, however we managed to tired them out.  We had friends staying too and by 8.30pm the children had run off just about all their steam, from looking for treasure in the wild flower meadow, feeding Lady and Bird (the chickens) left over tea, playing on the play area and having the excitement of using 'toilets with sinks in' - only a 5 year old can get excited about a toilet and sink next to each other in our vanity cubicles! So my review of the park would be:

"Lovely family park, ideal for families to relax and rewind.  We were one mile from home but felt like we were miles away.  The clear blue skies and barmy warm evening meant we could make the most of the great outdoors.  The 5mph speed limit and park layout made me feel the children could have the freedom to be children but were safe in doing so.  We even had a visit from a little snuffling friend - one of the many hedgehogs who are living on park!"

With families in mind, we know that holidays can be expensive times and sometimes the cheaper days are the best days.  And paying lots to get in somewhere then buying lunch and everything else that you just 'must have' can really add up so with than in mind we have been thinking about how you can holidays for less.

First of all - equipment.  Please do ask if you need something or have forgotten something.  We have quite a collection of camping chairs, wind breaks, camping tables, BBQ's and much more that people have discarded whilst staying with us.  I will start posting what we have on Facebook.  We have decided to help our charity of the year - Parkinson's UK - by asking people to make a very small donation for preloved camping equipment so keep an eye on what we have, and feel free to donate.  My camping trip last night made use of a preloved BBQ, table, 3 chairs, wine glasses and children's glasses.

This week we had a brilliant cheap day out  with a trip to the beach.  We packed the camping stove, some burgers, the most amazing potatoes with butter and bacon from Lidl for 89p (a camping must as they are delicious and there is no mess or fuss with them -  just fry them up!), and the flask of tea.  We headed over to Caerhays.  Now considering we are full tonight we were surprised with how quiet it was.  At most there were 6 other groups on the beach.

We had a lovely beach picnic and an explore of the beach including the 'dinosaur cave' (just a cave but to Jess everything is a dinosaur cave) and then we walked right out across the beach as the tide was the furthest out we have ever seen.  All was going brilliantly until Bethany decided it was far too hot to not have a little dip in a rock pool.  It was the funniest thing we have seen in ages, it was like we had provided the best toy ever.  So not to be left out Jess joined in too.  We were all soaked with no change of clothes but some brilliant memories were made.

From the park why not explore the King Wood.  The beautiful wood has many path to explore, benches to rest your legs and a good selection of trees to admire.

If a more landscaped garden is more your cup of tea then pop over to Lanhydrock House.  Whilst it is National Trust property, and in out opinion one of the best examples of upstairs downstairs living, you can explore the informal grounds for free and make most of their brilliant play area, great for all ages.  There are also free bike trails, including a balance bike track.

Spring Sun & Competition Time

View from Coastguard Hut

Breakfast. Yum

What. A. Scorcher.  Yippeeee.  We are all nursing slightly burnt noses in the Clemo household today having spent the afternoon celebrating Bethany's first birthday with a BBQ in the garden.  We were truly bless with amazing weather.  We have just about managed to put the toys back in the rightful places, collected all the balls from the ball pool and gathered up all the missing eggs from the Easter Egg Hunt!  Back to work tomorrow for a rest.

We have had a brilliant few days sharing it with visiting and local friends.  We enjoyed breakfast in the Coastguard Lookout at Caerhays - I have mentioned this before but it was the first time we have cooked there.  We took our own stove and had bacon and egg sandwiches with cups of tea. The view is staggering - it was really a fantastic treat.  We then walked the coastal path to Portholland to look at the film set - they start filming Miss Peregine's Home for Peculiar Children in the next couple of weeks.  It was amazing looking around, we were tapping walls to see if they were real (they were not) and spent ages trying to work out which buildings had been added and which were always there.

We enjoyed a lovely cup of tea and cake in the Pebbles Cafe.  The lovely cafe is well worth a visit - take cash as they do not accept cards and take a bit extra for the wonderful crafts they create and sell too.

Pebbles Cafe Portholland

Film set

COMPETITION TIME

Now, down to the business of the the aforementioned competition! Each week I write the blog, I love doing it and love visiting places to tell you about.  In return for the blogs we would like your help.  We have a Postman Pat OBSESSED two and half year old who each day runs to letter box to collect the post when it is delivered as in her world every post person is Pat and has a cat called Jess with them!  So, I am asking all blog readers to make a little girls day simply by...

Please can you send Jessica (aged 2 1/2)and Bethany (aged 1) a postcard from where ever you are, near or far.  In return we will give anyone who visits us in the 2015 season who has sent a postcard a free ice cream of your choice. Please help make their days!

Please send postcards to Miss J & B Clemo, Little Winnick Touring Park, Pentewan, Cornwall, PL26 6DL.  Thanks x

Heavenly scent that summer is on the way

I love this time of year when Cornwall really comes alive with the trees in blossom, lambs in the field and everywhere you turn bluebells.  Now I am no gardening expert but I suspect that the winter weather is the driver behind the stunning carpets of blue which seems to be everywhere you turn in Cornwall right now, and the scent of the bluebells is just wonderful and really raises hopes for the glorious summer I am certain is just around the corner.    A short stroll along the river bank that hugs the park you will find stunning carpets of flowers and if the wind is in the right direction the smell drifts over the park.  Luxulyan Valley is a bit of a locals secret,  but worth a visit this time of year.  The old woods are littered with mining history and is a brilliant place for dogs and children alike and must for bluebell lovers right now.

Talking of woods, I was excited to see that Tehidy Woods, about a 30 minute drive away is, hosting the Wild Woodland Summer Ball, by the fantastic Rogue Theatre Company.  The magical woodland experience will have little  people and grown ups too enthralled in the magic of fairies, dragons and mermaids.

Closer to home is the exciting summer of theatre promised at the Lost Gardens of Heligan.  The 20th August sees the grounds play host to The Tempest by The Miracle Theatre Company - a show not to be missed.  We have had the enormous pleasure of seeing two productions by the Miracle Theatre Company and they are without fail brilliant.  So funny and wonderful actors.  If that was not enough we then see the arrival of the Kneehigh Theatre Company with Dead Dog in a Suitcase (and other love songs).  The Kneehigh are a well known theatre company who normally play to sell out crowds so book early to avoid disappointment.

The bank holiday here has been beautiful and we have enjoyed welcoming so many of you to the park.  As the children return to school we enter a time when it is mainly only adults on site making the most of our brilliant 7 nights for the price of 5 offer - which makes us the best value campsite in the valley.  So why not pop in, enjoy our great location, well stocked shop, WiFi access and onsite facilities for as little as £40 for 7 nights.

Many of you have been asking how our new little arrival is getting on, which is most kind thank you.  She is now four weeks old and getting on nicely. In fact she is asleep next to me at the office desk as I type - giving guests who check in a little startled when she moves and they notice her!  Big sister is enjoying her new role, but more importantly is loving having people back on site to meet again, as we are too!

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.

Autumn arrives in Cornwall...but the sun is still out

I think most campers will agree that there is certainly a chill in the air, however I can confirm when the sun is out it is still very powerful and warm.   If I am honest with you we are moving into our favourite time of year here.  Don't get me wrong, summer in a sunny Cornwall is awesome, however hot days in September and October feel extra special, especially as everything is a little bit quieter and calmer.  

As locals we know that there are some brilliant events in the coming weeks and we also know the best places to find a roaring fire to snuggle up next to after a long bracing walk.  My favourite fire to nestle in to is at the Polgooth Inn.  The fire is in the heart of the pub, and with a pint of local ale warming your insides you can't go wrong.  The Eden Cafe in town also has an amazing fire.  The large open burner has sofas all around it so you can enjoy a lovely treat off their menu whilst being tucked into cosy chairs.  Right now, at this time of year when it is still warm enough to enjoy the lunch time sun but you want to feel like winter is coming my all time favourite place to go is the Duchy Nursery just outside Lostwithel.  Their food is brilliant, their plants are fantastic and their shop will want you make to buy everything.  But my favoutite thing is sitting outside in the sun whilst smelling their wood burner that burns away inside...there is something about that smell that gets me ready for the winter!

If you are planning a visit to Cornwall before we close for the winter on 31st October why not plan it around one of the many events up and coming over the next few weeks.  In fact I found something on every weekend - all of which are worth a visit.

Roseland Festival - 21st September - 6th October.  The full programme can be found here, but with lots of community events, talks, shows, dining and a quiz you are sure to find something of interest.  The Philleigh Way Cookery evenings looks particularly good.

Cornwall Food & Drink Fair - 27th - 29th September.  We loved this last year with all things foodie and Cornish showcased in one location.  We would advise going early though as it does get very busy.  If you don't manage to fill yourself up on all the tasters then why not treat yourself to lunch at The Old Grammar School - we love their food.

Boscastle Food, Art & Craft Festival - 5th - 6th October.  This small village knows how to enjoy food -and this year the programme looks even better than usual with famous chefs, cooking demonstrations, talks, barn dances and concerts this is one not to be missed.

Falmouth Oyster Festival - 10th - 13th October.  Love them or hate them oysters are a bit like marmite. But the festival celebrates the start of dredging season and brings together music, food and crafts to celebrate.

Seed to Sow - Lanhydrock - 17th October.  Join the garden team to collect seeds in the Herbaceous Border and learn how to sow them and care for them in the Plant Nursery.  Maybe you can get a garden looking as good as Lanhydrock!

Spooky Halloween Trail or Tour at Pendennis Castle - 26th October - 3rd November.  Enjoy following a spooky trail around this impressive English Heritage property.

Little Winnick News - we look forward to welcoming our first Rally to the park later this month and are looking forward to the numerous rallies we have booked in for 2014 both in our purpose built Rally Field and within the park itself.  

We have a comprehensive list of works for the winter - some of which we have already started including putting in pitch dividers on certain pitches.  We will be sprucing up the toilet blocks, developing the planting, installing a new booking system, and a few other things!  In between on this we hope to have a little holiday ourselves.

The chickens have already gone on their hols.  Currently they are at our holiday cottages in a warm stable whilst we clean their pen as they have red mite which is very common at this time of year.  They will however be moving to our back garden fairly soon for their winter break.  I am most pleased about this - Richard is less than pleased that they will be spending the winter with us!

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.

Wonderful walks on your door step

Goodness me, we have had a wet 24 hrs, however I am very pleased to report the sun is out and it is looking bright and feeling warm.  Luckily the rain has drained away very quickly and left everything looking nice and refreshed now.  The outlook for the week is good too, so we are looking forward to a bit of a bright week now (fingers crossed!).  Which is brilliant news for the Charlestown Regatta and the Fowey Regatta.

I always think after a good dumping of rain is a good time to get put and go for a walk as everything is lovely and refreshed and looking at it's best.  There are so many brilliant walks in Cornwall it is hard to know where to begin but we we stumbled across one that strokes the edge of the site.  Why not start it from Little Winnick and enjoy a beautiful circular walk?  If you would like to explore a little more how about the Hall Walk - my all time favourite walk I have to confess; taking in a magical cove and the village of Polruan, with a river taxi back to Fowey at the end -  it is real adventure walk.  Or why not venture onto the North Coast with a circular walk from Rock.  The tiny village has become 'the' place to be seen in Cornwall with exceptionally high house prices.  The circular walk will let you enjoy some stunning houses.

As for our day off on Sunday; the rain stopped play so we didn't make our day out.  Instead we had our friends round for a big hearty breakfast and let Jessica play with her friends.  In doing so we got to eat whole heap of the Kittows Bacon I keep raving about that we sell in reception and eggs from the chickens we have outside reception.

Talking of chickens we have some news.  We recently acquired Joan to keep the others company, sadly both Joan and Doreen decided to sit on eggs and refused to eat, which is very common in bantams, so sadly they passed away.  However the very, very exciting news is that Shelia is proud Mum to 7 chicks.  We are keeping an eye to see how many are girls and how many are boys but so far mother and chicks are doing fine.  They are in a small run until they are big enough to walk the ladder up in the big pen.

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!

The return of the ice cream bike

My wheels!

Now hopefully I will not curse the weather but  it is gorgeous at the moment.  Two days on the beach this week have resulted in a house full of sand but it is worth it to hear the crashing of the waves and see our little one exploring the sand.  Day one was spent on this coast at Porthpean - I have mentioned it before but it is such a lovely little spot and a little bit of a hidden gem.  The car park is £3 for the day and there is a small shop on the beach selling ice creams and bits & bobs.  There are also toilets.  As for the beach itself it is clean and sheltered and has a large selection of rock pools to explore.  If you fancy a change whilst there you could venture up onto the coastal path; Duporth and then Charlestown are only a short walk away.

Treyarnon Beach - stunning!

Our second beach this week was Treyarnon Bay which is on the north coast.  The large sandy expanse was very quiet and sheltered but the waves were big.  The beach, which has lifeguards present is stunning and bigger enough to hold the crowds I am sure it would attract on a Saturday.  Again the car park was £3 for the whole day and there were toilets and food on offer - we took a picnic which was just lovely.  After the beach we strolled along the flat cliffs taken in a bit more of the coastal path - it is such a different coast to the south coast.

Jess & Daddy enjoying Treyarnon Beach

After a visit to the north coast why not pop into Kingsley Village - this shopping outlet stocks locks of local bits and bobs and has a fantastic food hall that does amazing cakes and meat for the BBQ.

The sun also means the ice cream bike is having her first official outing of the year.  She is my little project that I invested in when I first moved here - she used to go around our other campsite - River Valley.


 But she has been promoted this year to a spot on the trail.  I will be selling Callestick Farm's finest soft scoop ice cream, along with some of the more traditional ice creams and cold drinks.  A guest has just this minute come into reception at 10.11am and asked if I am going around the site with the bike - keep you eyes peeled for me I may give her a test run around!  If not we have a freezer fully stocked with yummy ice creams in reception - the new Lemon Curd flavour is yummy scrummy (we tested it to make sure it was okay for you!).

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!