It’s become a bit of a festive tradition for my family and I, along with our dog, to head away after Christmas to rest and recuperate and celebrate New Year’s Eve. This year we took to the road and headed from Hertfordshire south west to Padstow.
While the weather was windy and wet at times, we still had a great week exploring North Cornwall.
Some highlights included:
Cycling the Camel Trail to Wadebridge – we hired bikes from Padstow Cycle Hire and headed along the flat brideway, a former railway line, making it perfect for all ages. The round trip was ten miles and a very enjoyable way to burn off a few of those Christmas calories!
Watergate Bay – a huge expanse of sand perfect for walks and rock pool exploration. There were even surfers and wind surfers braving the cold sea and it was great to watch their exploits! We ate at The Beach Hut - luckily I’d booked a table as it was packed so best to book if you want to dine. Other great beaches to visit in the area are Polzeath, Perranporth and Porthcothan Bay.
Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps – an area part owned by the National Trust, the steps themselves were closed but we still enjoyed a bracing New Year’s day walk (the wind was so strong at one point it was blowing the sea up the cliffs!) along the coastal path which provided great views of the dramatic beach below and renewed respect for mother nature! Make sure you stop in at the family run tearoom for yummy home-made food, great cream teas, delicious cake and friendly service.
Port Isaac – a quintessential Cornish fishing village with picture postcard narrow lanes and pretty cottages. We enjoyed warming cups of mulled cider, with hot chocolate for our girls, in The Golden Lion, a traditional pub with a cosy fire and views of the harbour.
Padstow - despite the time of year Padstow still felt vibrant in the run up to and on NYE. We’d booked our cottage through Harbour Holidays and were greeted with a cream team on arrival which was a lovely touch. The stunning beach is a short walk from the harbour and there’s a wide selection of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs to choose from. We enjoyed meals at Rojano’s in the Square, St Petroc’s Bistro and Burgers and Fish.
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