Zopa days out: An alternative day in Cornwall
This summer we’ve asked locals at some of the UK’s favourite holiday spots to share their tips for an on-budget day out that’ll make you look at these well-loved locations a bit differently. Now if you’re one of the many people heading to Cornwall this summer, you’re probably going for the sea, surf, and scones. So we asked Cornwall native Frankie to put together a day out with a difference. Here’s how her adventure went:
We all know that Cornwall is about spending time exploring beaches, hiking across the coastline, and sipping cocktails at a beach bar; however, Zopa gave me the challenge to show you what it can be like to explore Cornwall from a different perspective.
Cornwall is steeped in history and has numerous myths and legends attached to it. On one of the hottest days of the year, I made it my mission to venture to North Cornwall for an adventure out of the ordinary. Think lunch at a farm, spiritual waterfalls, King Arthur's old hang-out spot, and dinner at one of Cornwall’s most magical beaches.
Lunch at St Kew Farmshop - £8pp-£10pp
Tucked away on the outskirts of Wadebridge lies St Kew Farmshop, the popular brunch spot serving incredible food options made from locally sourced food. Enjoy a cold or hot drink - we went for an iced latte to cool us down - alongside some of the most Instagrammable brunch dishes in the garden or inside the cafe.
For brunch we opted for a bacon bagel topped with salad and a chicken kebab with a twist. It was delicious, healthy and set us up for the day ahead.
Venture into the Farmshop and explore the very best Cornish produce, plants, and gifts. I ended up walking away with the most gorgeous dried flowers and a St Eval candle – a real Cornish treat.
Chasing Waterfall’s at St Nectan’s Glen - £7.50pp
Embark on a soul uplifting journey through the depths of St Nectan’s Glen, one of the UK's most spiritual sites. Follow the River Trivillet until you reach the heart of the woods, where you will find the famous 60-foot waterfall. A miracle to nature. Over time the waterfall has punched a hole through the original basin, leaving water to flow deep into the valley.
If you’re feeling brave, paddle through the river, make a wish and let the water from the waterfall splash over your skin. The waterfall is said to have healing properties and is watched over by the spirits and previous friends of the Glen. A truly magical place.
Afterwards, head back to the meditation room and cafe to allow some time to let your spirit run free. If you’re with little ones, keep your eyes peeled for fairies, piskies, and magical stones positioned throughout the woodland.
Myths and Legends at Tintagel Castle - £18.50pp
Immerse yourself in history and breathtaking scenery at Tintagel Castle that proudly sits upon Cornwall’s rugged North Coast. Linked to the legend of King Arthur, Tintagel Castle is one of the most incredible historic locations in the UK.
It’s said that from the 5th to the 7th century AD it was probably a residence of rulers of Cornwall. It’s said that the castle was the place where King Arthur was conceived with the help of Merlin. The castle was built in the 1230s by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, and since then, the mythical associations kept Tintagel alive.
The rugged coastline around Tintagel is some of the most dramatic in Cornwall. On a sunny day, watch locals and visitors jump from the cliff edge and enjoy the turquoise waters. Could this be the med or Italy? Either way, it’s a sight for sore eyes!
Dinner at The Port William, Trebarwith Strand - £15-£20pp
The Port William is a pub perched on the cliff overlooking the popular Trebarwith Strand. Relax on the Terrace and embrace the sea views with a glass of Rattler, Cornwall’s very own cider. The menu is a combination of pub classics with daily specials created with the freshest ingredients from land and sea.
We opted for the calamari and mussels in white wine sauce alongside chips for our main. With a spectacular view, The Port William, is the prime location to watch the sunset alongside some of the best food in the area.
Watch the sun go down at Trebarwith Strand
After dinner, we kicked off our shoes and climbed over the rocks to the beach. A unique landscape, Trebarwith boasts a 1-mile sandy beach at low tide but disappears under the waves at low tide. Trebarwith Strand is breathtaking and the perfect place to finish the day and watch the sun go down over the horizon.
Thank you to Zopa for letting me show you a different part of Cornwall from a new perspective. Sometimes the most magical moments can be found when you allow yourself to step away from the ordinary.
