Little Polkerris

There’s plenty on your doorstep at Little Polkerris. On-site guests can book into Thursday’s yoga sessions, which take place at Woody’s Bike Park. The evening classes are led by local yoga instructor Lorraine, the first class (6-7pm) focusses around Gentle Vinyasa Flow, while the later session (7:30-8:45pm) follows Yin Yoga; a slow, meditative style of yoga. Pre-booking is highly recommended, or why not book your own private session? To find out more, click here.

If it’s sandy shores you’re after, you are just a short walk from Polkerris Beach which offers watersport galore and plenty of golden sand for sandcastles. It’s worth noting that there is a seasonal dog ban in place, and there are no lifeguards on the beach. If you are visiting with you dog, then there’s a stunning coastal walk around Polkerris. An easy stroll, and not far from your holiday home, it offers panoramic views of St Austell Bay, why not reward yourself at the local pub, The Rashleigh Inn where dogs are very welcome, too. Or try Sam’s on the Beach, which is based in a converted RNLI lifeboat station, and is another dog-friendly option. The restaurant’s front is made entirely from glass offering sublime views.

The closest dog-friendly beach is a two-minute drive (or two mile walk) to Par Beach, which is situated at the bottom of Polmear Hill. Par Beach boasts a wide expanse of gently sloping sand backed by dunes and a nature reserve. It’s sheltered and ideal for paddling, beach games, and long strolls. With easy access and parking nearby, while it’s a family-friendly beach please note that this beach is not lifeguarded.

Menabilly beach is also a two-mile stroll away, and dog-friendly throughout the year, making it a popular choice for dog walkers. Often referred to as Polridmouth Cove, is a secluded and picturesque spot on Cornwall’s south coast, nestled near the historic Menabilly Estate. This tranquil cove offers a peaceful retreat, ideal for those seeking a quiet beach experience. Access to Menabilly Beach is via an unmade track, approximately a 10-minute walk from the nearest car park at Menabilly Farm.

Readymoney Cove, a 15-minute drive away, is a small, sheltered sandy beach flanked by cliffs and woodland. With calm waters ideal for swimming, it’s popular with families. Dogs are welcome from October to Easter, but not during the summer months. There’s a seasonal kiosk, public toilets, and it is lifeguarded during the summer season.

If pedal power is more your thing, then you’ve come to the right place. Recently-opened Woody’s Bike Park is based on the same grounds; with trails for all abilities to get your adrenaline fix in the glorious Cornish countryside.

Or head for the narrow-streets and plenty of charm at fabulous Fowey. Its nautical history lends it to picture-postcard views, and streets lined with quaint pubs and restaurants. It is also home to the Polruan Ferry, which takes you just across the estuary for waterside views of Fowey and walks up the headland.

For food you’re spoilt for choice, in fact Fowey has an annual food week celebrating the fabulous food scene here. Each spring, local Fowey food businesses present a selection of dishes from another national cuisine, encouraging visitors and locals alike to  ‘Eat your way around the world without leaving Fowey’, find out more here Fowey Food Week.

In Fowey for artistic culinary delights we highly recommend heading to MasterChef finalist Charlie Walters’ new restaurant Narla, on Fore Street. If you want something more casual Sam’s Fowey, restaurant and cocktail bar, is a relaxed spot. Try their award-winning burgers, and a tipple or two. For something a little special, why not enjoy an afternoon tea at Fowey Hall Hotel, Harbour Hotel or check out the unrivalled views at The Old Quay House. We love Olive Branch a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean deli/café, which serves delicious Origin Coffee and truly delicious baked goods and salads. Or head towards the Esplanade where you will find Pinxto Tapas bar in between the townhouses, for something different.

Of course, if it’s a Cornish pasty or baked goods that you’re after Quay Bakery will not disappoint, where everything is made from scratch on site.

Fowey was the home of writer, Daphne du Maurier, so it has attracted her fans for many years. Her world of wreckers and creeks captured the literary imagination, drawing many to this splendid town on the south coast of Cornwall. The Menabilly Estate features as Manderley in Rebecca. There is now an annual arts and literature event, Fowey Festival, which takes place in May, featuring established and emerging writers.

Check out the Fowey Museum at the waterfront, and perhaps enjoy a cream tea at the splendid Fowey Hotel. Fimbarrus Church sits in Fowey. It features in du Maurier’s My Cousin Rachel, where Philip is worshipping while Rachel is having a secret assignation – yes, it all happens in her novels so you may want to read one while you’re here. In the church, seek out the beautifully-carved font with its decorative honeysuckle leaf pattern.

In days of yore, Fowey, a pilchard exporting town, was prey to pirates; it was also occupied by Parliamentarian troops during the Civil War. It is hard to imagine its turbulent history when you visit today, so make the most of its modern amenities. Perhaps a river trip? Or a visit to the aquarium comprising native and local species such as crabs and lobsters. For something a little different, maybe try the Bird Lady of Fowey with her collection of owls and hawks. Meanwhile, art connoisseurs might enjoy a visit to the unique River Gallery.

Fowey is a magical spot at Christmas time, and its Christmas market is one of Cornwall’s most enchanting festive events. For 2025, the three-day event will start on Friday 14 November, until Sunday 16 November.