Tag - cornwall food
13Mar

How To Make The Perfect Cornish Pasty

The Cornish Pasty is an excellent example of England’s cultural heritage, being recognised as early as 1300 AD and being the signature food of Cornwall. The word comes from the Old French and Vulgar Latin words paste and pasta. Due to the meat filling that was popular in pasties of the time, these were foods reserved for the wealthy and even royalty. 

What Makes A Pasty A Cornish Pasty?

The iconic Cornish pasty came about due to the ingenuity of the Cornish tin miners’ wives. This is due to the design allowing this nutritious meal to be portable and dense, allowing it to be carried into the mines and keeping its warmth for hours. Due to it being primarily eaten by working-class families, meat was scarce and would only be eaten on certain occasions. Therefore, vegetables such as swede and potatoes comprised most Cornish Pasties.

The ‘D’ shape with crimped edges created sturdy handles that made them portable and robust, which was useful to miners. An unofficial - but very humorous - requirement of a Cornish pasty is for the pasty to be strong enough to withstand a drop down a mineshaft. To fit this bizarre requirement, barley flour is usually used to make a hard, dense pastry that can also retain heat.

How You Can Make A Cornish Pasty

The Filling:

  • 400g of beef skirt that has been cut into cubes.
  • 300g of peeled and diced potato (preferably Maris Peer).
  • 150g of yellow-fleshed swede that has been peeled and diced.
  • 150g of peeled and diced onion.

Homemade Shortcrust Pastry:

  • 500g of strong bread flour, like barley flour.
  • 120g of lard.
  • 125g of butter.
  • 175ml of cold water.
  • 1 tsp of salt.

The Method:

  1. Add salt to the bread flour in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Rub the lard and the butter together lightly into the bread flour until it looks like breadcrumbs.
  3. Add water and bring the mixture together. Knead until the pastry turns elastic. This will take longer than usual due to the strong bread flour.
  4. Cover and leave to rest in the fridge for 3 hours.
  5. When rested, roll out the pastry and cut it into circles roughly the size of a side plate, or approximately 20cm in diameter.
  6. Add the vegetables and meat on top of the pastry, making sure to add seasoning as you go
  7. Fold the pastry and crimp the edges together.
  8. Glaze with an egg and milk mixture.
  9. Bake for roughly 50 - 55 minutes at 165 degrees Celsius.
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20Feb

Seaside Treats You Can Find In Cornwall

Cornwall is an area well known for its beaches, surfing, and fantastic views. But whether you are out ruling the waves or just relaxing, at some point you’ll want a bite to eat. Luckily for you, Cornwall sports some of the best cuisines at the seaside that one can get.

Fish And Chips

The national classic, but where would be better to eat it than at the seaside where it was caught just hours ago, lovely and fresh? Whether it’s cod, haddock, or any other fish, they’ve got it fresh in, and with an assortment of extras such as homemade chips, homemade sauces, lemon, and peas to really perfect the dish. Check out our blog post on the best Fish and Chip shops in Cornwall here. 

Shellfish

Cornwall is an excellent area for smaller seafood delicacies, such as scallops, lobster, mussels, and especially crab. All of the items are locally caught and are renowned for their taste, even compared to other coastal areas that specialise in seafood cuisine.

Rock

Made of sugar and glucose syrup, rock is a seaside classic. Handcrafted by experts, the sugary treat comes in many different flavours, colours, and lengths, it is gluten-free and vegetarian. Although rock originates from Blackpool, it is still readily available at the seaside across the country, including the many sweet shops in Cornwall.

Ice Cream

Available anywhere and everywhere, ice cream is a staple treat that we all know and love, but it gets even better when you can get it fresh and with no preservatives. Cornwall has no shortage of ice cream parlours, and the producers are local, ensuring that you only get the best. Not to mention that Cornwall has its own speciality ice cream, which although you can buy across the nation, can only get better when you’re at the source. If you’re an ice cream lover, then our list of the best ice cream parlours is the perfect guide. You can find it here.

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17Aug

The Most Fun Things To Do In Cornwall Throughout September

Cornwall is a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year, but there’s something special about September in the county. The summer holiday season is over, and everything feels a little more relaxed. Every September, Cornwall comes alive with fun things to do. From festivals and fairs to guided walks and countryside activities, there are plenty of exciting ways to spend your time here during this wonderful month.

Trewithen Classic Car Show

There are many classic car shows and car rallies, but none can match up to the Trewithen Classic Car Show. The event is usually organized by enthusiasts and owners of classic cars who get together to show more than their cars. It is an appreciation of the beauty of cars that any car owner should look forward to.

Sample Cornwall’s Cuisines

September is a great time to sample the county’s best cuisine. There are plenty of food festivals and special events throughout the month, including the Great Cornish Food Festival. There’s also the Eden Festival of Food that also happens once a year and is dedicated to celebrating the county’s food.

Take A Fantastic Day Trip

There are a number of fabulous places to visit in Cornwall throughout September. One of the most popular ones is The Eden Project, located in St Austell near Penryn in the southwest of the county. This is a fabulous place to visit, and you’ll find plenty of fun things to do here during this wonderful month.

The Eden Project has an annual festival during September and October, which attracts visitors from far and wide. Besides the attractions, there are many free activities for children and adults.

Visit The Beaches In Cornwall And Enjoy Some Sun

The beaches in Cornwall are another great option for a fantastic day out, and you’ll find this is yet another place that hosts plenty of events throughout September. Strands Beach, near Newquay, is one of the most popular during September, with lots of fun things to do and see here simultaneously.

You could also go to St Ives, a regular visitor spot for many people who love its stunning beaches. Other beaches include Sennen Beach, Godrevy Beach, Perranporth Beach, and Marazion Beach.

Visit Bodmin Moor For One Fantastic Adventure

The world-famous Bodmin Moor is another great option for a fantastic day out in September. The moor has many activities, such as bird watching, nature walks and exploring ancient sites.

The views across the moor are stunning and have inspired various paintings over time, including John Constable’s The Haywain by Moonlight over Bodmin Moor. They are a sight to behold.

Visit Land’s End, The End Of England

Land’s End is one of Britain’s most famous and photographed landmarks. You will be able to see large-scale, beautiful vistas as you make your way through the tip of Cornwall.

You can do many things here, such as enjoying a stroll along the ocean shoreline, taking in some spectacular views from the nearby cliffs and viewing an array of marine flora and fauna that thrive within its waters. The experience is one not to be missed.

Conclusion

September is filled with activities you can enjoy year-round, especially during the fall. With cooler evenings and the leaves changing colour, there are so many things to do in Cornwall this month. From festivals celebrating cider and apples to ghost walks perfect for those who love scary stories, there are many ways to embrace the month in Cornwall.

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09Mar

Spring Time Activities in Cornwall

Cornwall is a beautiful place to live, work, and play. With stunning scenery, delicious food, and supportive people, it's the perfect place for a spring break. But what about the weather? With winter over, it gets lighter as it is the onset of spring. The temperate climate and scenery are perfect for a day of exploration. Here are the most exciting and fun things to do in Cornwall during spring.

1. Try a Cornish Lardon Pasty

Cornwall is famous for having some of the best pasties in England. If one of these is on your bucket list, you should try one while in Cornwall, preferably from the village of Lanteglos-by-Fowey. It is famous for delicious pastries. Other areas you should try are Padstow and St Austell (both in Cornwall), as well as Maryport and Workington in Cumbria.

2. Visit St Ives

Nestled in between Porthcurno beach and Land's End, St Ives boasts some of Cornwall's most stunning beaches. It is also home to great places to eat as well as independent boutiques and galleries which make it an ideal destination if you're looking for some culture as well as breathtaking views. St Ives also hosts an annual arts festival which showcases some wonderful exhibitions.

3. Watch the Sunrise at Minack Theatre

This famous theatre was founded by Rowena Cade in 1927 when she bought land with her husband at the edge of Porthcurno beach in Cornwall. As well as praising the amazing views of the ocean, she fell in love with the natural rock amphitheatre which led to her creating a theatre here.

The theatre has a capacity of 200 and is situated against the backdrop of a 50ft high cliff, so be careful when you're sitting down. Minack Theatre is open throughout the summer months and plays host to a range of performances from musicals, comedy to dance.

4. Watch the Wildlife

When the weather warms up, the wildlife awakens and can be seen more often. Hens lay their eggs in the spring as they have just been hatched in the springtime. It is a great time to watch birds and animals in Cornwall.

If you are lucky you can see Ospreys, Red Kites and Seagulls playing above your head or even a kestrel flying overhead. It is a great experience for nature lovers and those who want to spot some of Europe's most stunning wildlife.

5. Take a Stroll in the Countryside

Spring is when everything comes alive, which means it's a great time to visit Cornwall's country parks where you can walk on beautiful footpaths and admire the rolling hills and quaint villages. If you’re looking to stay away from the hustle and bustle of St Michael’s Mount, situated between Marazion and Penzance; it boasts idyllic Cornish beaches and is home to the ruins of a historic castle.

If you don't stay here, take a short ferry ride across the A30 to walk up Mount's cobbled streets and spend an hour exploring its beautiful gardens.

6. Explore Newquay's beaches on horseback

One of the most beautiful places in Cornwall, Newquay has stunning sandy beaches lining its coastline. You may also be familiar with this area due to its lively nightlife during the summer months.

The weather is great during spring and there are several activities here as well such as surfing, rock climbing, and zip lines. You can also explore at nighttime as Newquay has a vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Cornwall is one of the most genuinely beautiful places in Europe that provides an excellent sample of the English countryside and a different experience that you should enjoy at least once in a lifetime. With the onset of the spring season, it is time to plan your Cornwall vacation.

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15Nov

The Best Restaurants In Hayle, Cornwall

The UK boasts of beautiful holiday destinations and Cornwall is one of them. This beautiful location is home to the most scenic surroundings, spectacular sea views, and stunning destinations, not forgetting the amazing sandy beaches.

In addition, Cornwall has amazing picturesque appeal with numerous activities to enjoy on your holiday. Whether you are going for a vacation with your partner, family vacation or some alone time, you will find Cornwall attractive. Besides, the place has beautiful restaurants with amazing facilities to make your stay worthwhile. Here are the best restaurants in Hayle to stay during your vacation in Cornwall

1. The Cornish Arms

Looking for a family-friendly restaurant, this is your ideal solution. The Cornish Arms gives you a home experience away from home. Owners of this restaurant believe there is nothing better than family or friends coming together for a meal. The ease, catching up and the laughter rekindle the love.

From Canadian snacks to Artisan cocktails, you can enjoy a heartwarming meal with your family or friends. Besides, there are numerous dishes to pick from. And for that private family celebration, there is enough space to host your event and ensure you have a good time.

2. Angarrack Inn

Angarrack Inn offers a friendly atmosphere and has a pub garden to enjoy the beauty of nature. You won't stress about parking; this place has on-site parking and a delicious chef-prepared menu with amazing choices for everyone in your family. Whether you want homemade desserts, pub classics or vegan dishes, this is the place for you. It is ideal for all classic pub meals.

3. The Old Forge, Lelant

Looking for a place to enjoy breakfast or brunch? Old Forge got you. They offer a variety of options for your breakfast and brunch. You can visit with as a family, with friends or partner to enjoy a tasty meal. And if you love pizza, visit on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays to have one or order it as a takeaway.

4. Birdies Bistro

For those who want something stylish but still relaxed, Birdies Bistro is your go-to destination. It is perched on the far edge of RSPB's Hayle nature reserve, making it perfect for nature lovers. The restaurant serves breakfast from nine and then you can order sandwiches, burgers, salads or any other classic lunch of your choice. All you get to enjoy with an estuary view.

5. Lula Shack

This restaurant is one of a kind, especially since it serves a fusion of New Orleans creole as well as Floridian crab shack spice dishes. Located on dunes overlooking Hayle Estuary, you enjoy delicious meals in a relaxing environment. They source food locally and have servings all day. Make sure you try the amazing chowder, salt and pepper squid during your visit.

6. Rosewarne Manor Restaurant

Rosewarne Manor Restaurant is fairly special in design as well as the tasty servings. It is perfect for a group occasion as it provides ample space to accommodate a huge number. They have an affordable bar dining area and a new tea room to cater to your needs. Whether it's a business meeting, wedding, birthday party or any function that involves a large number, the restaurant will ensure that your needs are met.

Besides, they have a variety of dishes for everyone. This makes it easy to cater to specific needs for everyone in the event. Visit the restaurant during your visit to Cornwall to create beautiful memories.

Final word

Cornwall offers numerous activities both for kids and adults. From outdoor activities to relaxing, there is something for everyone. And after a whole day of exploring around and engaging in adventurous activities, all you want is a tasty meal in a relaxing environment.

Luckily, there are numerous places to have exactly that. Whether it's a family meal, a classic pub meal to go with your beer or a solo meal to recharge after a tiring day, you will have varieties of options to pick from. Crown your visit in Hayle, Cornwall, with a delicious meal in one of the above restaurants where you can enjoy chef-prepared delicacies in a relaxing environment.

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13Sep

Interesting Facts About Cornwall You Probably Didn’t Know

Cornwall is one of the most beloved places in the UK for stays, but there are so many things about Cornwall that not a lot of people know and are very interesting to learn about before your next visit. Some of these facts will even make you rethink what you know about the Cornish seaside county, Cornwall has so much history and so much of it is unknown, so here are 8 facts you probably didn’t know about Cornwall. 

Cornish Pasties Are Very Practical

Image source  Cornish pasties were originally created for the cornish tin miners to take to work. They needed a substantial and nourishing snack to keep their energy up throughout their long working hours.  The large crusts were added so that the cornish miners had something to hold and once they had eaten the rest of the pastie, they would throw the crust away. This is because of all the harmful and poisonous chemicals that were involved in tin mining, the large crust meant that the pasties wouldn’t get contaminated. 

Cornwall Has The Longest Coastline In The Country

Image source  Three sides of the beautiful southern county are covered by clear blue oceans which means that the county has the longest coastlines in the whole of the UK, the coast has actually been measured to be a colossal 1,086km, which doesn’t even include the coasts of the isle of scilly. The gorgeous Cornish coastline is the perfect setting for romantic walks, breathing in the sea air and taking in the astonishing scenery. 

Cornwall Has The Largest Selection Of Plant Species In The UK

Image source The Eden Project is a “global garden” with plants from all over the globe. Because of this, Cornwall is home to the largest collection of species found in the British isles. Plants have been collected from all around the world and are kept in two huge biomes, which activate the exact temperature that the plants need to survive.  The larger biome mimics a rainforest and the smaller biome recreates the gorgeous mediterranean. This means that even in the colder months, the plants are in an area with temperatures of over 28 degrees. 

Cornwall Has A Native Language

Image source One of the lesser-known facts about Cornwall is that it has its own language, Kernewek. The language comes from celtic origin but it sadly began its decline in the18th and 19th century.  Most reports say that the last person who spoke Kernewek as a first language died in 1777 and was a lady named Dolly Pentreath, however, there are some claims that the last native speaker didn’t die until much more recently in 1914. Although, in recent years, schools have begun teaching the language in hopes of a Kernewek revival.    

Some Cornish Waters Are Shark Infested

Image source  You may not realise quite how vast the aquatic animals that habitat the area are. Of course they have crustaceans and small common fish, but the waters also house larger animals such as Bottlenose Dolphins, Grey Seals, Basking Sharks, and Whale Sharks, which sound extremely intimidating, but they only actually eat plankton. Recently a Blue Shark even took a trip to the harbour in St Ives, although some experts believe that the shark may have just got lost. 

Waves Reach Unbelievable Heights

Image source Surfing is obviously one of the most popular activities in Cornwall, and with the stunning crystal clear waters, we can see why. However, a lot of people don’t realise just how striking the waves can become, especially on Fistral Beach, which is located on the Newquay coastline. During winter storms, the waves can reach breathtaking heights of around 30ft, definitely not for the faint hearted, but these waves are a surfer's dream.

There Is A Cornish Flag

Image source The cornish flag is known as St Piran’s  flag or “Baner Peran” in Kernewek, it is a black flag with a white cross through centre and a lot of of Cornish people use it to symbolise their identity. Whilst the exact date the flag was created is unknown, the earliest reports of the flag being used date back to 1188, when the flag was being used in crusades.  It was then accredited to Saint Piran who was a 5th century Cornish patron saint. Many locals celebrate this flag and some even have stickers of the flag on their cars and fly the flag on masts in their gardens. 

Cornwall Has Over 300 Beaches

Image source Clearly with a coastline of over 1,000km you would expect Cornwall to have a huge amount of beaches, but over 300 is astounding. Cornwall has beaches that are suited for everyone, if you are wanting to have a whimsical picnic on the beach then visiting one of the beautiful secluded coves is a must. If you are on a fun filled family holiday, then the long golden sandy beaches are perfect and the pebbled beaches can act as a great setting for a seashell pirate treasure hunt.  There are also many different dog friendly beaches so you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind. The majority of the beaches also have highly qualified lifeguards so you can relax whilst  your children have fun and of course you can’t forget about the iconic surfing beaches, some of which offer surfing lessons, you can find out more about that here. 
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26Apr

Best Rated Fish & Chip Shops In Cornwall

Cod & Chips - Cornwall

On your adventures around Cornwall, you may feel peckish, so the best thing to eat whilst in the UK and in a place like Cornwall is a nice British fresh fish and chips! But where would be the best place to grab a classic fish and chips? In this article, we will break down the best places for taste and hygiene that sell fish and chips in cornwall.

The Deck - In Bule

To experience the true classic vibe of locally sourced fish and chips, the deck in bule is the place. Don't get too ‘caught’ up in eating your delicious fish, there’s other things to try, like fish in cider batter with fries, tartare sauce and the taste of chilli mint peas. They are rated 5 stars on trip advisor, giving you a comforting experience.

Pennycomequick - In Falmouth

Going all the way back to the mid 17 hundreds, this particular 5 star pub serves the best locally sourced seasonal food, alongside their signature korev-battered sustainable fish and chips. Their beautiful fish and chip restaurant has great COVID-19 measures to reflect it’s luscious food.

Harbour Rest Cafe - In Newquay

Located right at the very top of the harbour (half a mile away from fistral beach) the harbour rest cafe is rated 5 stars. They provide the best traditional hand-battered british fish and chip meals. The best part is that they’re gluten free with many vegetarian friendly options.

The Blue Peter Inn - In Polperro

Rated a high 4.5 stars on tripadvisor, this award winning restaurant / pub is known for its famous goujons and the sustainable fish battered in it’s own unique style, served with mushy peas tartare sauce and hand cut chips.

Lanivet Inn - In Bodmin

This community driven pub based on a village is rated 4.5 stars on tripadvisor and rightfully so. Their locally sourced produce allows you to taste cornwall to its fullest with their beer-battered cod and chips.

Wavecrest - In The Lizard Peninsula

Placed right at the top of one of the highest points at the famous known Lizard Point is where wavecrest rests. It’s clear to see that they’re been rated 5 stars as their local produce is the best fish you could taste. They also have a special ‘local catch of the day’ to tickle your taste buds.

The Gem Fish Bar - In Falmouth

The gem fish bar is family-run by lovely faces to go with your spectacular fish and chips. Rated a high 4.5 stars on tripadvisor, they boast about serving a variety menu, stemming from freshly cooked meals made from sustainable foods.

Warne’s Bar & Restaurant - In Wadebridge

Another family-run restaurant provides a casual and family-friendly atmosphere with the perfect food and taste to match it. It’s clear to see this joyful family is rated 4.5 stars with their brilliantly made battered cod and hand-cut chips made to perfection.

The Preston Gate Inn - In Brude

Rated 4.5 stars, their food perfectly reflects that in their traditional inn like setting. With a menu featuring all varieties of creative and yummy meals, it’s hard to see why you would not want to come to Preston Gate Inn. We hope you found this list just as interesting as us - and we hope you have found the fish and chip shop for you when exploring Cornwall, let us know what your favourite is.
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Why Should You Visit Cornwall?
31Mar

Why Should You Visit Cornwall?

Cornwall is a lucious and fantastic place to visit, especially with the amount of amazing photography there is on the internet. But besides the view, what else is there to do in Cornwall, and why should you visit?

Reasons To Visit Cornwall

There are many reasons why you NEED to visit Cornwall, even if it’s just for a day. We took our time to write this article on the biggest reasons why you should visit.

Beaches

The beaches are by far, by opinion, one of the main reasons to visit Cornwall. Being able to set yourself in a photography setting is very relaxing, especially with the Cornish sea washing up nearby and the wind hitting your face, it makes it the perfect holiday setting!

Food

Cornwall is quickly becoming known as a place for a food haven with many Michelin starred chefs scattered throughout the restaurants in Port Isaac and Padstow and further food festivals located in Padstow Rock, St. Ives and Porthleven. They showcase the finest food products within Cornwall and they happen throughout the year.

Sub-Tropical Gardens

Thanks to the luscious climate Cornwall and the Cornish sea has, Cornwall has many sub-tropical gardens that you can use as a conversation starter. There is plenty to discover within one of the largest global greenhouses known as ‘The Eden Project’. You can very easily get lost under the canopies of the ‘Lost Gardens Of Heligan’ or, if you wish, treat your eyes see Trebah and Glendurgan own secluded beaches.

Myths & Legends

Cornwall has such a rich history and many myths and legends. From mermaids to giants and saints to pesky piskies, there are more myths and legends dedicated to so. There are many attractions dedicated to these myths and legends, such as King Arthur’s tintagel, the museum of witchcraft and the magic boscastle. It’s endless, so if you’re into fantasy, you will love the legends of Cornwall.

Art & Culture

Cornwall has always been a home to creative arts and has been a natural home for creative people to get their inspiration or ideas. Since the very early 19th century, you will find no country that’s home to as many artists as Cornwall. Since this is the case, Cornwall has many art attractions you can visit, such as the Minack Theatre, Tate St Ives, and the Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens. Castles

Cornish Ice Cream

On top of all this, you can visit everything above whilst holding a fresh and gorgeous cornish ice cream. Many parlours are scattered across Cornwall, but a few have the best and most fresh ice cream you can get. We wrote an article on ice cream parlours and the ones you should visit, you may find it helpful.

Watersports

Watersports has always had a place within Cornwall. Many watersport lovers come here to surf and in due time has created a huge surfing community. Since Cornwall is surrounded by ocean, it means there is a big and easy opportunity to sail, swim, surf or even take a boat trip whenever and wherever you’re based.   We hope this article suits you well and has given you many reasons why you need to visit Cornwall at some point in your life.
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