Callestock Blog

1. Dinner on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway

The six mile stretch of railway near Bodmin dates back to the early 1800s, when Cornwall used the distribution centre to transport minerals all over the country. Today, the line is maintained by the Bodmin Railway Preservation Society, ferrying travellers through the countryside on a traditional steam-powered locomotive.

Take in views of the lush green Glynn Valley, travel across an historic viaduct, disembark to explore the many walking trails of Cardinham Woods, and dine out in style on the First Class Cornish Belle. 

Learn more about three-course dinner or afternoon tea (Steam & Cream) on the Bodin & Wenford Railway >>>

2. Find your sea legs aboard the SS Truro

As Cornwall's only city, Truro is a popular shopping destination with its iconic three spires cathedral, cobbled streets and connecting waterways. After a wander around Truro, relax and put your feet up aboard the Enterprise III, and journey along the River Fal to St Mawes.

The scenic river trip passes Tudor castles, deep-sided wooded valleys, and calls at the National Trust's Trelissick Gardens, before continuing to Falmouth and St Mawes.

Book your boat tickets in advance >>> 

3. Travel back in time to St Ives

The popular coastal resort of St Ives has been the lucky winner of the award for the Best UK Seaside Town from the British Travel Awards, and was also named Best Seaside Town of 2007 by the Guardian Newspaper. Once you see the sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and pretty fishermen's cottages, you'll see why.

But why join in the fight for the few carparking spaces when you can take the scenic route along one of the most beautiful stretches of railway anywhere in the UK.

Park at the little station of St Erth near Penzance, taking the little train past Hayle's estuary, Carbis Bay's white sandy beaches, into the heart of St Ives. 

4. You are always just one ride away from a good mood with a bike ride

This quote from British cyclist Sarah Bentley sums up the joy of travelling on two wheels. Just half an hour from the cottages here at Callestock is the Cornish market town of Wadebridge, on the River Camel, where you can easily hire bikes and experience that joy in spades.

In Wadebridge, join the 5.5 mile Camel Trail, following its traffic-free route along the Camel Estuary. This area is popular with bird watchers, as waders, divers, gulls and wintering wildfowl are often sighted along its sandbanks and rocky shores.

Once you arrive in Padstow, secure the bikes and reward yourself after all that cardio with an amazing piece of cake from the Cherry Tree Cafe, right on the harbour front. 

5. Get into your stride with a stroll around the countryside

So that's rail, rivers, sea, and countryside. Our final recommendation is a mode of transport that's free, green and good for you....

"Walking is man's best medicine."

- Hippocrates

We're lucky enough to live in a beautiful rural idyll at Callestock Courtyard Cottages, and there is an extensive network of footpaths leading from the farm. One of our favourites is the one leading to Perranporth beach, which takes in views of meadows, woodlands and the old engine house at Chiverton Mine.

Take a short detour to visit the 19th Century Perranzabuloe church, before continuing along the valley by the river to one of the longest stretches of unbroken sand on the North coast, Perranporth Beach.

Short breaks in Cornwall:

Cornwall boasts a rich history, a rambling network of bridleways and footpaths, and miles of coastline and countryside, all free attractions open 365 days of the year, 24 hours a day. 

I hope you're inspired to see Cornwall from a different perspective next time you visit. Liz is always on-hand to help you plan a perfect day out, whether you're looking for two wheels, a steam locomotive or to try out your sea legs. 

Check the latest availability and book your break today.