St Austell Brewery

One of our Trusted Partners is St Austell Brewery. They are not just a brewery though; with around 44 pubs on their shelves, and 28 of these with accommodation. There’s plenty of fresh, comfortable and well-priced options from them along the South West 660.

Food and Drink

Alongside the brewery’s own beers and a great wine list, if you’re into no or low, they have you well and truly covered with an excellent choice of drinks in this category. They all offer varied menus including pub classics and a la carte creations. Using local, seasonal produce, they have dishes for everyone from carnivores and fish fiends to vegetarians and vegans.

Dog Friendly

Canine companion in tow? Many of their rooms are dog-friendly. Your furry friend can get their paws on a ‘Proper Dog’ hamper complete with a tennis ball, Forthglade treats, biodegradable poo-bags and a can of St Austell ‘Proper Dog’ pooch-friendly beer. Plus, for the humans, there’s even a Proper Job beer for you to take away with you. Each venue’s website also has a dedicated ‘dog friendly days out’ page providing inspiration on where to go walkies.

A bit of History, in their words

Founded in 1851, what has come to be known as St Austell Brewery originally began life as Walter Hicks Wine & Spirits. It wasn’t until 12 years later, Walter began brewing his own beer. The first of which was created in the Seven Stars Inn, St Austell. Since then, they’ve gone on to brew some of the nation’s most beloved pints and run an impressive pub estate alongside it for guests to quench their thirst with one of their award-winning beers.

St Austell Brewery remains proudly independent and family-owned. Nearly all of Walter Hicks’ descendants have a hand in the Brewery as shareholders, with some being more actively involved as directors and employees.

Award Winning

St Austell Brewery recently scooped a top title at The Publican Awards, as ‘Best Accommodation Provider’.  From cosy pubs to enviable accommodation, they have completed some incredible transformations and refurbishments to some of the venues in their portfolio. We can’t help but share a handful of these with you to choose from on your next South West 660 adventure!

Dorset

The Rock Point, Lyme Regis – Route 2

You couldn’t get much closer to the sea than The Rock Point. Positioned at the waters edge on this incredible piece of Jurassic Coastline, you have a front row seat from your dining table or bedroom.

With 9 rooms offering a selection of doubles and kings, enjoy sea glimpses to full sea views. The interior of earthy tones, and exposed beams adding charm to your stay.

For those wanting to drink or dine, we’d recommend starting with morning coffee and brunch before returning for a lazy late lunch, or relaxing into a cosy evening while watching the sun set over dinner.

Find out more about Lyme Regis on South West 660 here.

Devon

The Mason’s Arms, Branscombe – Route 3

This picture-perfect thatched building has recently made the list in the Sunday Times 100 Best Places to Stay in the UK. A 14^th Century building, the pub has been lovingly refurbished to bring it into the modern day, yet still oozes with historical character and charm. With timber frames, low beamed ceilings, pine cladding, and whitewashed walls. Even a roaring log fire you’ll want to hide yourself away in its bosom. On brighter days, the glorious garden is a must visit!

Although not waterside, it is only a 10 minute walk to the 1-mile long Branscombe Beach. Here you can enjoy a stomp on the shingle and watch the tide roll in, or join the South West Coast Path.

With 28 boutique hotel-style bedrooms and converted cottages, full of texture and thoughtful touches including roll top baths, you can wind down in your rooms complete with stunning views overlooking the surrounding countryside. A selection are dog-friendly too.

Find out more about dining out on Route 3 on the South West 660 here.

Cornwall

Rising Sun, St Mawes – Route 7

Lying at the heart of St Mawes, guests can enjoy wonderful views overlooking the picturesque harbour from this special spot, from the terrace through to the rooms and restaurant.

With 11 boutique boltholes, offering a mix of inland cosy rooms and airy sea view vistas, you can sink into their sumptuous beds for a restful night’s sleep after an adventurous day out on the Roseland Peninsula.

Why not enjoy a river cruise, catch the ferry to Falmouth or explore nearby St Mawes Castle?

Find out more about the highlights along Route 7 on South West 660 here.

Harbour Inn, Porthleven – Route 7

Lying at the heart of Porthleven, the most southerly port in Britain, Harbour Inn does exactly what it says on the tin but with a fresh and cosy refurbished glow. Based in the heart of this bustling harbourside town. Which is full of authentic Cornish character and charm as well as some fantastic foodie finds.

With 15 boutique bolthole bedrooms, ranging from trendy interior twins, to deluxe sea-view suites, you’re bound to find a bedroom to fit your needs.

If you have the itch to twitch then stroll to nearby Loe Pool for some bird watching. Don your walking boots and explore Poldark country. Or meander around the town and indulge in a wealth of art galleries, shops, cafes, and restaurants

You can find our guide to eating out in Porthleven here.

Port William, Tintagel – Route 10

Nestled on the side of a steep valley overlooking Trebarwith Strand and within touching distance of a golden sandy beach, the Port William is perfect for surfers and beach lovers.

With a choice of twins or doubles, all 8 bedrooms offer breathtaking views over Trebarwith Strand and the rugged coastline. With pastel shades of blue reflecting the waters beyond, this calm cocoon is perfect for resting after an adventurous day out.

Positioned directly on the South West Coast Path, it’s also perfect for walkers and castle explorers with Tintagel Castle only 2 miles walk away to the north. For those wanting a longer adventure, are big fans of the television series Doc Martin or of chef Nathan Outlaw, then Port Isaac is only 7 miles south.

Find out more about Tintagel and surrounding area on South West 660 here.

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Embarking on a journey along the South West 660 is akin to stepping into a postcard. Rugged cliffs meet the tumultuous waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Pretty fishing villages and sweeping country fields. What better way to experience the charm and beauty of these carefully designed routes than in a classic VW campervan?

The South West 660 route is broken into 12 manageable sections – Freebird Campers are based in Colyford near the Dorset border, so we start off in Section 3 of the route. You can do these in one or multiple visits in any order you like. Or even revisit your favourite areas, with the 660 membership you get loads of inspiration and fantastic discounts. The choice really is yours.

From the quaint fishing villages of Devon to the dramatic coastal landscapes of Cornwall, join us as we journey through parts of this picturesque coastal route. Making stops at the Caravan & Motorhome Club sites at Dartmouth, Looe, Godrevy Point, Tintagel, and Bude. If required, Freebird Campers provide membership to the CMC (pitches at member prices) when you hire one of our vans.

These club sites are perfect for pitching up and breaking your Route 660 journey. Each site has their own fantastic attributes. Stunning coastal views and walks, or steeped in history like Tintagel castle.

To begin…

We start at Colyford home of Freebird Campers:Make your way along routes 3 & 4 to Hill Head Campsite near Dartmouth. Set in 22 acres of beautiful Devon countryside close to the coast, a campsite gem nestled along the rugged coastline of Devon. Spend the day hiking along the coastal path, breathing in the salty sea air and soaking in the tranquillity of the surroundings. In addition, Dartmouth and Kingsbridge are close by if you’d prefer a tempting selection of shops and restaurants.

Hillhead Club Campsite offers fantastic facilities. Pitches offer stunning views of the sea. Outdoor heated swimming pool, indoor complex housing, a shop, bar, restaurant, and takeaway service for all the conveniences you could want. As the sun begins to set, you can retire to our campervan for a cozy night under the stars.

Into Cornwall…

Heading on towards the historic fishing town of Looe you travel through route 4 and into 5: Looe is nestled on the south coast of Cornwall. Meandering through its narrow streets, lined with colourful cottages and bustling seafood restaurants. You can’t help but be enchanted by its old-world charm. Park up your campervan overlooking the harbour and indulge in freshly caught fish and chips. Watch the boats bobbing on the gentle waves and let the world wisp you away for a moment.

Onto the Atlantic Highway…

Traveling onward to Route 9: Another Freebird favourite is Godrevy Point, a windswept headland on the north coast of Cornwall. Famous for its iconic lighthouse and sweeping views of the Atlantic, this rugged landscape is a photographer’s dream. Whats more, you can spend hours exploring the rocky shoreline, searching for hidden coves and secret beaches. As the waves crash against the cliffs, feel a sense of awe at the raw power of nature. You can book a pitch at Godrevy Park Club Campsite currently being extensively improved and will be finished in May 24.      

Onwards! To Tintagel on Route 10: No trip to Cornwall would be complete without a visit to Tintagel. The legendary birthplace of King Arthur. Perched on the rugged cliffs of the north coast, this ancient castle has captured the imaginations of visitors for centuries. You can hike along the coastal path, marvelling at the breathtaking views and imagine the tales of knights and dragons that once echoed through the walls. As we explored the ruins, we felt a sense of connection to the past, knowing that we were treading in the footsteps of legends. Trewethett Farm Club Campsite is right on the Route 660 & coast path and is a fabulous stop off to rest a while.

And finally…

The destination for now brings us to Bude. A charming seaside town on the border between Cornwall and Devon. The sandy beaches and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to end your coastal trip. Explore the hidden coves and indulge in freshly caught seafood. Brave a dip in the large sea pool, and wander along the picturesque canal. We know that the memories of our journey will stay with us forever, a testament to the beauty and wonder of the West Country coast.

Exploring the Route 660 round Devon, Dorset, and Cornwall in a classic VW campervan is a journey like no other. Where every twist and turn of the coastline reveals a new adventure waiting to be discovered. From the charming villages to the dramatic landscapes of Godrevy and Tintagel, each stop along the way offers its own unique blend of history, beauty, and excitement. So grab your Route 660 membership, hire a classic VW campervan, unleash the inspiration, and pack your bags. Hit the road and prepare to be captivated by the stunning coastlines of southwest England.

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The beaches

First and foremost are the beaches! From sweeping stretches of sandy shores, to dramatic steep-cliffed coves with wild waves crashing, there’s over 400 tip-top beaches to keep you occupied in Cornwall.

Falmouth

From pier to point, Falmouth combines fascinating maritime heritage with modern creativity and culture.

Poldark

Needing little introduction, the recent BBC series has resurrected Winston Graham’s classic historical novels. Die-hard fans can tick off many a film location such as Charlestown, Porthgwarra, St Agnes and Kynance Cove.

History and heritage

Think shipwrecks, smuggling, and a booming tin mining past thrown in for good measure. From abandoned engine houses, to stone circles, museums and a rich maritime heritage – visiting Cornwall is an archaeologist’s heaven.

Sub-tropical gardens

Thanks to our balmy climate, Cornwall’s sub-tropical gardens are something to write home about. Discover the world’s largest greenhouses at The Eden Project, get lost under ancient canopies at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, or fall in love with the exotic paradises of Trebah and Glendurgan who each have their own secluded beach.

Watersports

Of course, Cornwall is famous for its surfing scene due to the county’s impressive Atlantic swell. But being surrounded by coastline also means there’s an opportunity to wild swim, sail, paddle board, kayak or hitch a ride on a boat trip, wherever you’re based.

Festivals

Cornwall loves an excuse to celebrate and its vibrant festival calendar grows every year. Be it boats, food, ales, art, music or sea shanties – we’re guaranteed to have an event dedicated in its honour. Visit Cornwall any month of the year and you’ll find a festival within your reach.

The southwest coast path

Whether it’s a blustery clifftop ramble completed by a cosy pub fire, a saunter to a quaint fishing village, or a foraging hunt on a warm summer’s day – we have a whopping 296 miles of diverse coastline in Cornwall.

Myths and legends

From mermaids and pesky piskies, to giants, saints, and Merlin – there’s more legends than you can shake a stick at. Explore King Arthur’s Tintagel, marvel at the curiosities in the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle, and keep your eyes peeled for the Beast of Bodmin Moor.

Hidden spots

There is always something undiscovered around every crooked lane, secluded creek and footprint free beach. Cornwall surprises even its most knowledgeable locals time and time again.

Arts and culture

Cornwall has been a natural home to inspiration, art and ideas since the early 19th century. So much so that, apart from London, you’ll find nowhere in the country that’s host to more artists. Get the Minack Theatre, Tate St Ives and Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens on your to-do list.

Castles

Expect mighty coastal fortresses, rugged hilltop castles and a whole load of ancestral houses. We thoroughly recommend a day trip with a picnic to St Michaels Mount, Pendennis Castle, St Mawes or Tintagel.

A crowd pleaser

Whether it’s a bucket and spade holiday for the whole family, a romantic staycation for just the two of you, or you’re packing your pooch for a dog-friendly adventure – Cornwall ticks every box. It’s also well connected thanks to Newquay Airport and an efficient train line.

Marine wildlife

Ignore that pesky seagull pestering your pasty and look further afield. Book a sea safari and pack your binoculars to spot dolphins, whales, basking sharks, seals and all kinds of seabirds.

For all the foodie fans out there, these are for you…

The Cornish pasties

No visit to Cornwall is complete without a daily pasty. Once the nifty packed lunch of Cornish tin miners, our perfectly crimped national dish is filled to the brim with veg and huge hunks of beef. A few to get on your radar: Philps in Hayle, Ann’s Pasties on The Lizard, and Choak’s in Falmouth.

Cornish clotted cream

First created in 1890 by the great-great-grandmother of Rodda’s owners, Cornish clotted cream is rich, unctuous and thoroughly dollopable. A Cornish cream tea is quite the ceremony and you must always remember: jam first!

Tregothnan tea

Tea, of course, goes hand in hand with the above. Did you know Cornwall is home to England’s only tea plantation? The Tregothnan estate, on the banks of the Fal River, began supplying England’s first home-grown tea in 2005. You can visit Tregothnan by booking one of their private garden tours, or heading to their annual charity weekend when they open their gates.

The foodie scene

Attracting a clutch of celebrity chefs such as the likes of Rick Stein, Nathan Outlaw and Paul Ainsworth, it one of the best county’s to stuff your face. Fact.

Fresh seafood

We promise that this is our last food-related reason, but it’s a must! Thoughts of Cornwall evoke images of Falmouth Bay oysters, fresh crab, lobsters, pilchards and mussels – caught daily by local fisherman and delivered to every kind of eatery. One to try: the award-winning Harbour Lights just down the road from us, for the ultimate fish and chips.

Cornish Tipples

And what to wash all that scrumptious food down with? We’ve got Cornish craft beers, ciders, ales, the world’s best gin and even our own take on Champagne from the Camel Valley to name but a few.

The post 20 Reasons to Visit Cornwall in 2024 appeared first on South West 660.

The perfect antidote to January blues, an out-of-season road trip allows us to lean into slow days – in search of light, my mind wanders to the long expanses of sand, bringing me to the Cornish coast.

Cornwall may be at the end of the route, but this fascinating county is plentiful in its offerings, particularly for up-and-coming foodie destinations, dog-friendly travel, outdoor adventure and wellbeing culture.

Travelling by the sea offers escapism at its foremost – a South West 660 wellbeing trip across Cornwall will take you on the roads less travelled, to some of the most spectacular locations within Cornwall – following routes Seven, Eight and Nine – a meandering drive from St Austell, south to Falmouth, hugging the coastline through Marazion and heading west to St Ives, before travelling north, following the scenic route through Hayle and St Agnes, to Newquay and Padstow.

The route focusses on a restorative escape, spending time amongst nature, within places that nourish the mind, as well as the physical body; we discovered a plethora of natural landscapes, and experienced some of the most relaxing eco spas and wellness retreats – north and south – offering enviable clifftop and beachside locations, surrounded by captivating sea views.

Kernow – as the locals name it – is a special place for a wellbeing adventure, at the forefront is the stunning natural beauty of the county – known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. Think salt-fresh hiking along the South West Coast Path, spectacular clifftop views, cold-water swimming – renowned for boosting both physical and mental wellbeing – and some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the UK. There’s also a host of gorgeous spa hotels, many of which are eco-conscious, providing a holistic approach to wellbeing, using alternative therapies and ayurvedic principles.

Fill your cup, without filling your tank

In our super-smooth running EV Skoda ENYAQ – a car designed to make eco-friendly adventures easy and exhilarating –  we began our South West 660 wellbeing adventure by picking up Route Seven – St Austell to Penzance – taking in the short but stunning clifftop bends of the B3273 to Mevagissey, hugging the Roseland Peninsula through picturesque St Mawes with its quiet coves and Monterey pines, to the artsy town of Falmouth.

Eat

A quick detour to The Hidden Hut, an unassuming wooden shed overlooking Porthcurnick Beach – the outdoor restaurant has no road access and is completely off-grid on the South West Coast Path – a relaxing spot with sweeping seas views, where walkers are rewarded with homemade Cornish pasties, hot crab soup, great coffee and sweet treats. The beach is dog-friendly year-round and great for a refreshing dip, or a jaunt around the rock pools.

Stay

Our first stopover was at St Michaels Resort  – a great spot, superbly positioned, directly opposite Falmouth’s sandy Blue Flag Gyllyngvase Beach – popular for water sports, with dog-friendly Gyllyngvase Beach Café propped on the edge of the sands. After a blast of fresh Cornish air, it was time to restore a sense of wellbeing within the largest hydra-pool in the South West. There are also ten treatment-rooms, a private Rhassoul mud-room, herbal Finnish sauna, rainforest steam-room, Cornish sea-salt steam room and spa gardens with a red cedar hot, Finnish barrel sauna and plunge pool.

Falmouth itself is a vibrant town with lots of creative flair, shaped and influenced by its strong connection to the sea – combining fascinating maritime heritage with a rtistic and tech-led creativity, home to an array of galleries, independents, antiques and experimental arts and crafts workshops.

Eat

There’s a really brilliant foodie scene too – a trip on the foot-ferry over to Harbour House, Flushing is an absolute must! This fabulous, sustainably-driven Cornish pub is set on the waterfront with acclaimed chef – and ever-rising star on the foodie scene –  Andrew Tuck at the helm. Andrew is known for his love of open-fire cooking techniques and innovative flavour combos. We tucked into to delicious, well-balanced dishes that showcase some of the freshest local produce – think beef tartare and pickled chilli with crusty sourdough made onsite, followed by monkfish, nduja and capers, smoked brassicas and ricotta ravioli with brown butter and pesto – keeping it sweet, we finished up with outrageously moreish sea-salted chocolate delice.

There’s also Sabzi, a superb deli set at the heart of the town, serving Middle Eastern cuisine, and Verdant Seafood Bar, serving delicious seafood small plates, locally brewed beers and specialist bottles.

Drive

Continuing on Route Seven, stopping at Marazion Beach to take in the vistas across to St Michael’s Mount –  we picked up Route Eight – Penzance to St Ives  – and headed west to Una, St Ives.

Stay

Una is a relaxed holiday resort comprising of a series of eco-lodges, designed around an Atrium with a spa, heated outdoor pool and award-winning restaurant  – Una Kitchen, serving delicious wood-fired dishes that celebrate seasonality. Set within a rural environment, surrounded by greenery and traditional Cornish stonewalls at the edge of Carbis Bay, Una is a welcoming retreat within a contemporary space – the perfect base to relax and explore the Cornish coastline.

Walk

Porthkidney Beach, with its expansive white sands, is located two-minutes’ drive away; from St Uny’s Church at Lelant, we took the winding Coastal Path down through the dunes, with views across to St Ives and Hayle. For a longer stomp, walk four-miles into St Ives, where there’s the option to continue further along the six-mile stretch to Zennor or take in the scenes from Porthminster Beach across to St Ives Harbour.

Drive | Eat

Leaving Una, we took Route Nine – St Ives – Padstow – to Newquay, stopping at The Big Green Shed in Hayle, set in 36-acres of wildflower meadows and woodland with meandering paths throughout. The café is run by Ben Prior – critically acclaimed by Michelin – and his wife Lisa, with Ben’s protégé Archie Reynolds, creating some pioneering dishes. It’s a relaxed spot for an inventive lunch made with seasonal Cornish produce with sweetest handmade treats to follow – set in nature with covers both inside and outside overlooking the sunflower meadows. The prettiest rural grounds are part of The Woodland Collection Holiday Cottages, where there are also two secure dog parks to stretch your canine pals legs.

Stay

After lunch, we picked up Route Nine and continued to Tolcarne Beach Village – a stunning resort with an assortment of beach cabins and houses, colonial rooms and suites. Nestled at the bottom of the dramatic cliffs with its own private beach, Tolcarne is perfectly positioned for watching sunsets from your hot tub and waking to the sound of the waves. Spacious beach houses boast beautiful, rich colour palettes with a colonial style.

Eat

The Colonial is a brilliant onsite restaurant with a relaxed beachside vibe, serving lazy lunches and sunset suppers, alongside an imaginative cocktail menu. Being in Newquay, it’s all about the surf  here – hire a body board and a wetsuit and make the most of The Atlantic ocean being right on your doorstep.

Drive | walk | eat

After an early morning surf, and indulging in a hearty breakfast, we continued north on Route Nine, snaking around the headland to Watergate Bay for a long beach walk across the two-mile expanse of tidal sands. Stopping for lunch at The Beach Hut – a laidback beachside hangout – we tucked into simply cooked, tasty dishes, with a view over Watergate Beach.

Drive | walk

Continuing around the headland from Watergate, the iconic structure of The Scarlet is instantly recognisable built into the landscape, boasting an inimitable cliff-top location with dreamy vistas, overlooking the golden sands of Mawgan Porth. We stop for a clifftop hot tub before heading to Bedruthen Steps for a blustery walk around the extraordinary sculptural rock formations.

Eat

For our final stopover, we step into the sea air at the sensory Spa Garden at Bedruthan Hotel & Spa, set on the dramatic clifftops, overlooking the Atlantic – it’ the perfect bolthole for a restorative getaway. Followed up by a healthy supper at the hotel’s newest foodie offering – Ogo, boasting a seasonal menu that showcases sustainably-caught fish and farmed meat.

Drive

It’s time to pack up our Skoda Enyaq –  having been a brilliant insight into driving long distance in an EV  – and with the pup safely strapped into the back, listening to the Skoda Happy Hounds playlist on Spotify – proven to calm anxious travelling dogs  – we leave the north coast of Cornwall behind, following Route Nine to Padstow – offering up some of the best views along this wild stretch of The South West 660.

It may be Cornish soup weather (otherwise known as mizzle), but watching the stormy Atlantic breakers fading into the distance, provides the perfect way to end to our January escape.

A note from the author…

Natalie Millar-Partridge drove the Skoda ENYAQ – an award-winning family and dog-friendly model – combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable design. Featuring an 82kWh battery capacity, this electric marvel offers an impressive 125kW DC battery charging capability, which allows for around 260 mile-range on a single charge. With leather seats, a Cognac faux leather dashboard, and Piano Black décor, it delivers comfort and elegance while prioritizing eco-friendly credentials through its advanced electric powertrain.

‘Škoda is on a mission to make eco-friendly adventures easy and exhilarating for the everyday explorer. For further information surrounding the all-electric Škoda Enyaq, visit skoda.co.uk/electric to find out more.’

The post The Ultimate Cornish Wellbeing Road Trip, Made Easier With South West 660 appeared first on South West 660.

Why not plan an autumnal getaway along the South West 660 to indulge in your favourite activity? Whether that’s filling your belly with mouth-watering delights, your ears and imagination with literary fodder, or your lungs with fresh air as you explore the South West Coast Path.

Autumn Walking Festival – 23rd September to 30th September

Devon – Route 4

How about exploring the English Riviera on foot, but with the knowledge of an experienced guide? This unique festival offers participants a guided exploration of the areas 22 miles of glorious coastal scenery, in an area that is a UNESCO Global Geopark and just one of 8 geoparks in the entire UK and 140 worldwide. Join a passionate and experienced guide on a variety of walks, from easy to ‘fairly strenuous’ and you could be swimming or walking in Agatha Christie’s footsteps, absorbing a magical musical sunset tour, or if you’re brave enough why not learn about ghosts, ghouls & goosebumps.

Tickets: A variety of adult only, and family friendly events, with varying prices circa £10 – £20

Website

England’s Seafood FEAST – 29th September to 15th October

Devon – Route 4

This fish-tastic fortnight is back for another year, with a squashed-like-sardines schedule of unique event with local eateries, producers, chefs and fisherman showing off the incredible fish and seafood that the English Riveria has to offer. Dive into a variety of events including ‘Sea Swim and Seafood at Cantina’, Meet the Maker with Simon Hulstone of The Elephant and Frazer Pugh of The Hand Dived Scallop Company or the magnificent food crawls in Torquay or Brixham known as the 7 Chefs from England’s Seafood Coast.

Tickets: A variety of events at participating venues with different price points, advance booking required.

Website

Powderham Food Festival – 7th and 8th October

Devon – Route 4

This festival has been held in the grounds of the gorgeous Powderham Castle for over a decade and is great for all the family including your furry friends. Can you take the heat? Why not enter the chilli eating challenge. Want to learn from the best, then head to the demo marquee for culinary creations. There’ll be plenty of activities to occupy all ages too.

Tickets: Free, however a £1.50 online booking charge is payable per order. Parking is free for members, or £8 for non-members.

Website

Falmouth Oyster Festival – 12th to 15th October

Cornwall – Route 7

In its 25th year, this four-day festival celebrates the mighty mollusc, the native Fai Oyster,, and marks the beginning of dredging season which runs from October to March. With Falmouth harbour as its background, you can experience culinary delights from local producers, chef demos and even an oyster and champagne bar, backed up with the sounds of live music in the sea air. Get your adrenaline pumping by cheering on the boats in the working boat race, or perhaps enter the shucking competition

Tickets: Daytime entry is free, tickets are required for the evening music and entertainment.

Website

Bridport Literary Festival – 5th to 11th November

Dorset – Route 2

For all the literary fans out there, the 19th Bridport Literary Festival is for you in this delightful historical market town. With events across various venues, there’s a great selection on offer. Foodies can get their teeth into a pasta demo and talk from ‘The Pasta Man’ and Instagram sensation Mateo Zielonka with his book Pasta Masterclass. Children (and their adults) can feed their minds with readings from children’s authors and illustrators, whilst those who have dreams of getting their pen to paper can learn from Nikki May during her creative writing workshop.

Tickets: Ranging from free up to £12.

Website

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So check out these 12 great events, and book yourselves into one of the many gorgeous accommodations from our partners.

Please use the links provided for details on dates, opening hours and (where applicable) tickets.

Section 1: Sandbanks to Weymouth

• From Saturday December 3, go and enjoy the Swanage Railway Steam and Lights. The steam locomotive and carriages will be covered with brightly coloured lights while the cosy steam-heated carriage interiors will be festively decorated for the one-hour evening round trip passing the historic ruins of Corfe Castle. http://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/

Section 2: Weymouth to Lyme Regis

• From 25 November – 8 January, check out Illuminate at Abbotsbury: an outdoor winter enchanted lights display within the Gardens. Colourful lights transform and illuminate our Subtropical 18th century gardens and create a wonderful winters trail in the dark.  Journey through the heart of the Gardens, in this years extended route and experience the rare plants and trees in spectacular colour which highlights the forms, shapes and textures. abbotsburytickets.co.uk/events/illuminate/
• Until January 1^st: the Christmas Lights at Lyme Regis aren’t just totally enchanting, they also offer you the ultimate opportunity to do some truly individual shopping for unique presents, from one of the many Indie shops in this beautiful coastal town on the borders of Dorset and Devon, lymechristmaslights.co.uk

Section 3: Lyme Regis to Exeter

• 9 to 18 December sees the return of Connaught @ Christmas, in Sidmouth. a truly magical experience this Christmas. This creative illuminated trail through the gardens high on the clifftops is filled with joy, wonder and a few surprises too. It’s the perfect start to your Christmas celebrations this year. You can also visit the free undercover Christmas Food & Craft Village where you’ll be tempted by delicious food, mouth-watering drinks and an array of crafty Christmas gift ideas from high quality local makers. connaught-at-christmas.co.uk

Section 4: Exeter to Dartmouth

• From December 1, head to Powderham Castle for Christmas at the Castle. A magical mix of Christmassy experiences, lots of lights, a grotto, carols, and food and drink, Great event for the entire family. powderham.co.uk/events/view/christmas-at-the-castle-2
• From 25 November – 30 December, the Christmas Train of Lights runs between Paignton and Kingswear/Dartmouth. The multi award-winning Christmas experience and the UK’s first steam train of lights! The Christmas Train of Lights is now the must-see event in the South West festive calendar. dartmouthrailriver.co.uk/

Section 6: Plymouth to St Austell

• From 2 – 30 December, the wonderful Eden Project is hosting Christmas at the Eden Project. Go and celebrate Christmas as only the Eden Project can, with an all-new immersive music and light experience. edenproject.com/visit/whats-on/christmas-at-the-eden-project

Section 7: St Austell to Penzance

• Selected dates in December: Head to the Heligan Night Garden and become immersed in an enchanting lantern experience, set amidst the atmospheric Lost Gardens. Journey through the magical garden trail, exploring woodlands and gardens beautifully lit with installations and lanterns. Discover breath-taking displays of fauna and flora as we celebrate the characters of our community, all illuminated within Heligan’s much-loved and iconic locations.  http://www.heligan.com/events/

Section 8: Penzance to St Ives

• 12 December to January 6 sees the return of the Mousehole Harbour Lights! The annual Christmas lights that adorn the village of Mousehole, Cornwall.  Started in 1963, the Mousehole Harbour Lights are switched on each December, illuminating the village and harbour. A tradition which started as far back as 1963 mouseholelights.org.uk

Section 10: Padstow – Clovelly

• On Sunday December 4, the Christmas lights turn on is a magical time in Clovelly.  Starting at 4 pm in the afternoon, a local brass band leads the procession down to the harbour, with festive Christmas carols sung along the way. clovelly.co.uk/event/christmas-lights-in-aid-of-the-r-n-l-i

Section 12: Lynton – Watchet

• Friday 2^nd and Saturday 3^rd of December see the return of the magical Dunster by Candlelight, when this remarkably preserved medieval village turns its back on the present and lights its streets with lanterns and where possible candles in the houses.  The whole place is alive with music and entertainment. dunsterbycandlelight.co.uk

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The first surprise

Can you imagine driving the country lanes in the middle of North Devon and discovering authentic Thai cuisine in the quaint pale green Cottage Inn. Yep you heard right, that’s what Nartnapa Thai at The Cottage Inn, Lynton offers. Thailand-born Nartnapa, who gained her professional chef training after university and even cooked on tv, returned to the UK with her husband and now dishes up a taste of Thailand for those visiting Lynton.  With cosy pub vibes and a few riverside garden seats, this quaint property has a unique offering.

Eat in or picnic

Have an urge for sumptuous scones, with an interesting twist? The Lynmouth Bay Café should be on your i-tea-nerary. Serving homemade quiches, soups, ploughman’s, their cream tea offering includes sweet and savoury options, with chilli or whortleberry jam to name a few and their changeable limited editions cream teas such as warmed ginger scone, clotted cream and homemade lemon curd. Heading out on a the glorious Watersmeet walk? They can supply you with a takeaway picnic or packed lunch made with their home-made cakes scones and sandwiches.

A Vegan treat

For the healthy-minded and those with vegetarian and vegan lunch desires, head to Toucan Wholefoods shop and café in Minehead. A wholefoods store downstairs, and dog friendly café upstairs, you can fill your tummy and your car boot with delicious and nutritious goodies.

Fancy subtle Mediterranean and middle eastern vibes overlooking Watchet harbour, then East Quay Kitchen is the place to be. Based in a quirky mix of architecturally interesting buildings and containers as part of a social enterprise site, they serve breakfast, lunch and evening platters with sustainability and low waste in mind and cater for plant-based diners too. Delicious dishes that change with the seasons include Turkish eggs, a feta and watermelon panna cotta with Greek salad or warm smoked mackerel with Sardinian fregola.

Dinner at “home”

A fan of MasterChef? Want to meet one of the critics? Well known food writer, restaurant critic, broadcaster and MasterChef guest critic William Sitwell hosts Supper Clubs at his family home on the edge of Exmoor. A small detour off the route, The Sitwell Supper Club at Rooks Nest, Somerset sees some of the finest chefs visiting and curating epic dining events for their those who manage to grab a ticket. Hosted by William himself, along with drinks selected by him (he is founder of the world’s smallest wine store), events have included some of London’s finest with Italian feasts, Mexican fiestas and even an Indian banquet with chef Atul Kochhar.

Countryside charm

For a rural getaway on this wonderful bit of coastline, here are a trio of options from B&B and self-catering, delightful dining for residents only or a variety of non-resident nibbling options.

Say ciao to Italian influenced ingestion on the edge of Exmoor where residents of boutique Locanda on the Weir can enjoy Naples-born chef proprietor’s passion for fresh, locally sourced cuisine and Italian wines. Overlooking the 15th Century harbour at Porlock Weir, the four rooms enjoy delightful sea views across Porlock Bay. Dining consists of a four-course seasonal menu of dishes such as cherry wood smoked lamb cutlets with fennel pollen and pomme puree or burrata, aged tomato and sherry emulsion.

For countryside charm, Bossington Hall, Porlock is a luxury mansion B&B with six rooms who encourage dining out at local venues. Built in 1911, this beautiful stone building with 1920’s interior styling has all the right mod cons including Wi-Fi and an EV charge point. You can borrow the binoculars, don your wellies, burn some energy on the oldest squash court in England, and even bring your pooch. Prefer a larger private space? Then book their self-catering ground floor apartment, which has also been tastefully and thoughtfully designed for guests needing accessible accommodation.

And finally…

Dunster Village is one of the best kept and most intact medieval villages in England, and whether you visit for a drink, dish or overnight dreaming, make your destination the Luttrell Arms. A dog friendly hotel with beautiful beer garden for alfresco weather and castle views, cosy corners and fireside feasting for chillier times. With dining for non-residents available, it also has plenty of lovely walks on its doorstep for those with or without a furry friend.

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