Tag - Padstow

The Obby Oss Festival In Padstow

The Obby Oss Festival In Padstow

Every year in May, the small coastal town of Padstow, located in Cornwall, England, becomes a hub of celebration and tradition. This is due to the annual Obby Oss Festival, a truly unique event that is deeply rooted in the town's history.

'May Day' Celebration 

The Obby Oss Festival, also known as the 'May Day' celebrations, is a folk custom that has been observed in Padstow for centuries. The festival is renowned for its 'Osses', or hobby horses, that are paraded through the town as part of the festivities. The event begins at midnight on May Eve when locals come together to sing traditional songs. As the sun rises on May 1st, the town awakens to the sound of drums and accordions. Two processions, each led by a person dressed as an 'Oss' - one blue, the 'Old Oss', and one red, the 'Blue Ribbon Oss' - make their way around the town.

The History of Obby Oss 

The precise origins of the Obby Oss Festival are somewhat shrouded in mystery. Some believe that the festival dates back to Celtic times and is a celebration of the arrival of summer, while others argue that it is a pre-Christian fertility ritual. The festival's most distinctive feature, the 'Osses' or hobby horses, are also subjects of historical debate. Some suggest that these figures represent ancient pagan deities, while others believe they are simply playful manifestations of folk tradition.

The festival has remained remarkably consistent throughout the centuries. Despite various challenges, including attempts to suppress it in the Victorian era due to its raucous nature, and a brief hiatus during the war years, the Obby Oss Festival has persevered. Its endurance is a testament to the strength of Padstow's community spirit and its commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage.

The Iconic Obby Oss Mask

At the heart of this festival is the Obby Oss mask. This mask is not merely decorative. It is meticulously crafted with attention to detail and complexity in design, making it a remarkable work of art. The mask serves as the festival's symbol, capturing the essence of the celebration. It embodies the festival's spirit and energy, bringing its traditions and values to life. The role of the Obby Oss mask is significant, adding to the festival's unique charm and character. With its intricate design and symbolic importance, the mask is a testament to the festival's rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit.

It is believed that the fearsome red oss mask was inspired by those brought back by Cornish sailors during the era of wooden ships.

Conclusion

The Obby Oss Festival, celebrated annually in the charming town of Padstow, Cornwall, is a cultural event like no other. It is a fascinating spectacle that captures the heart, imagination, and spirit of the community, offering an exciting and unique cultural experience for attendees.

Written by Twice as Nice Chalets

Read more...

The Best Farm Shops Cornwall Has To Offer

Theres nothing better than fresh local produce, and it is now more important than ever to support small businesses, and shop local. Here in Cornwall we have some of the freshest and tastiest meat and produce, and our local farmers have set up their own little farm shops to give customers the opportunity to but these products at their absolute freshest. Here are some of the best farm shops that Cornwall has to offer. 

Padstow Farm Shop, Padstow 

One of the goals of Padstow Farm Shop is to minimise their carbon footprint, which is extremely important when it comes to helping the environment. The shop has been open for over 15 years now, supplying the locals with fresh produce, as well as supporting other local small businesses, such as artisan cheese producers, and local bakeries. Another thing that the farm shop prides itself on it how they care for the animals before they get to the butchers counter. All of their animals are free range amnd pasture fed. Not only is this more ethical for the animals, but it also helps to increase the quality of the meat they produce. When you visit the shop you can find a range of fruit and veg, along with a butchery and deli counter. The shop also sells locally produced fresh pasta, so you really can create a whole meal with things you find in the shop. 

Argal Farm Shop, Falmouth

Compared to Padstow Farm Shop, Argal Farm Shop is much smaller although the quality is just as high. This farm shop is a small family run business in the south coast of Cornwall, and specialise in all kind of fruit and vegetables. One of the things that sets the fram shop apart from the others, is that they also offer an organic skincare range, made with entirely with organic ingredients. They also partner with Grumpies Kitchen, who produce fresh meat pies. Grumpies also offer gluten free and vegan pies, meaning this fram shop  really has something that everyone in the family can enjoy. One of the best sellers at the shop is their delicious homemade cakes and pastries. 

Hilltop Farm Shop, Camelford

One things that makes the Hilltop Farm Shop different to the rest, is that it also has a restaurant and cafe. Inside the farm shop, you can find succulent fruit and deliciously fresh veg. In the cafe you can find yummy breakfasts and traditional cornish tea’s. At the restaurant, they often host themed nights, in the past they have hosted cocktail nights, spanish tapas nights, and also burger nights, where all of the food is homemade, using locally sourced ingredients. The shop itself has been notimated for the Cornwall Muddy Awards and has reached the final alongside Padstow Farm Shop. the shop also stocks locally produced Tan Dowr Cornish Vodka. 

Lobbs Farm Shop, Heligan 

Lobbs Farm Shop has one of the most diverse ranges of products on this list, but one of their most popular products, which they pride their self on, is their cornish raised beef and lamb. In their shop they also sell a range of alcohol, inclouding locally brewed beers, and wines. One of the best parts about Lobbs Farm Shop is the beautiful location. The shop is located right next the breathtaking lost gardens of heligan, which makes for a lovely day out, especially since the farm shop is open 7 days a week. Inside the farm shop ou can choose from huge ranges of frsh fruit and vegetables, and British Farm Assured meat. 

Boscastle Farm Shop, Boscastle 

The Boscastle Farm Shop has won many awards due to the fantastic quality of their meat and fresh produce. Along with Lobbs Farm Shop, Boscastle Farm Shop, it is surrounded by beautiful scenery recognied by the National Trust, and is only 50m from a coastal walking trail. One of the unique things about this farm shop, is the fact that they also sell fresh locally sourced lobster straight from the coast. They also sell homemade baked goods such as pies and cakes. The shop also ensures that they used home grown, and locally sourced products wherever possible, to ensure that they operate as ethically as possible.

Read more...
Is Cornwall A Great Place For Families To Travel?

Is Cornwall A Great Place For Families To Travel?

The county of Kernow is as diverse as anywhere else in the world, filled with awesome Cornwall destinations that will blow your mind. From quaint fishing villages to sandy beaches, miles of craggy granite coasts to verdant forests, open moors to exceptional architecture and everything in between, you need not fail to visit some of them when you pass by. There is a world full of wonder twice as nice awaiting the kids with destinations such as Adrenalin Quarry in Liskeard, Lappa Valley in St Newlyn East, Camel Creek Adventure Park in Wadebridge, Tamar Valley Donkey Park and St Ann's Chapel, and Cardinham Woods, Bodmin. Some of the most interesting places to visit with family include:

Padstow – Foodies’ Palace

Wondering where to get some grubs in this wonderful city? Look no further than Padstow which is by a long shot the best place for a tourist’s food break. You could have an outdoor dinner every night in this beautiful seaside town. In an attempt to fill out your taste buds, purpose to visit one of the four Rick Stein’s restaurants and if you are a curious cyclist, Padstow also offers a great location to stay in awaiting the renowned Camel Cycle Trail.

Newquay – Surfers’ Heaven

Newquay fascinates global sufferers because of its constant array of waves and spectacular beaches such as Great Western Beach, Watergate Bay, and Fistral Beach. It also frequently hosts surfing tournaments and events including the yearly Board-masters Festival, branding it of the best places to go on vacation in Cornwall for those who fancy surfing breaks.

St. Ives – For Lovers Of Art

This is the art centre of Cornwall and the home of the Barbara Hepworth Museum, Sculpture Garden, and Tate St Ives alongside many other smaller galleries. It attracts world-class artists, exhibitions, and events all year long, you will always be right if you are searching for Cornwall's art scene. Similarly, St Ives is a lively and vibrant seashore town with numerous popular beaches in the area.

Fowey – Couples’ Paradise

This is for those who fancy history and love to learn about the encouragement behind the works of favourite authors. Fowey is one of the top-tier places to visit in Cornwall. You can learn about Kenneth Graeme’s motivation for his well-known story of delightful Wind in the Willows River Cruise which is at Fowey Estuary.

Port Isaac - Best For Walkers

Any clue where that famous TV series about hot-tempered Doc Martin was shot? Well, if you visit Port Isaac, you may spot the landscape and perhaps some of the places in the area. Explore and see if you can locate the houses that were Doc Martin’s neighbours. It is also an excellent getaway destination to free oneself from the hustle and bustle of the city. Set off to the stunning rugged coastline, its elegant spot for strollers boasting of its easy access to the South West Coast Path.

Final Thoughts

It feels all too rewarding to see Cornwall feature in one of the top family and peer destinations, with the rise of staycations which immensely buzzes the market. Family retreats are usually full of fun entertaining activities for young stars and the whole family ranging from waterparks to boat trips.
Read more...