HOT OFF THE PRESS!

Judith has asked me to report that at VERY long last the chickens have started laying green eggs! I don't think we will have to get her any presents this year...the chickens have made her Christmas!  Check out the picture of the long awaited egg on our Facebook page

Dramatic coastlines all around

Whilst we are hearing in the news that the north west of the country is being battered with hurricane force winds, we get a tiny bit excited down in Cornwall, as it means we are in for some stunning vistas during the quieter months.At the moment the seascape is absolutely stunning, only this week I was driving near Caerhays Castle, (if you have near ventured out there it is very much worth a visit).  I was driving along, running a little late, when I turned the corner and got a glimpse of the sea, then I heard it pounding, the view was breathtaking, despite being late I had to stop and take it in.

This time of the year is wonderful for walking.  We ventured up to Gribbins Head, the long walk is worth it, the views across St Austell Bay are wonderful.  We rewarded ourself with a picnic and a flask of tea on Polridmouth beach, which again is stunning and deserted at this time of year.


We have also been out and about getting in the festive spirit.  On Saturday Judith, Richard and I popped over to the Padstow Christmas Festival, which boasted a whole host of celebrity chefs, including Rick Stein, who we spotted wandering the streets.  We have also enjoyed late night shopping in Truro and are very much looking forward to the Lostwithel Dickensian Christmas Celebration. We continue on the festive mood, the trees are being prepared for the cottages and we are looking forward to welcoming our guests over Christmas.


At this time of year the animals seem to be constantly bathed in mud!  It makes egg collecting some what of an adventure, but they are always pleased to see us with their food and any inquisitive guests.  Judith is still waiting for her chickens to start laying their elusive green eggs...she even went back to the lady she brought the chicks from to find out when and if they will lay...hopefully they will start earning their keep soon.

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast...Cornwall Cottage Style!

Hello!


Hopefully this blog finds you well.  In the last blog I mentioned that we had a couple of ill donkeys.  Well, good news, all four are back out in the field, even sporting the latest fashion in donkey rugs to keep them snug in the wetter months that are in front of us.


Alice, the Shetland, is also getting on well without her companion Fraser, in fact she has become best buddies with Splodge the pig!


Have you seen our latest offer?  We have teamed up with one of our favourite local restaurants to offer 'Dinner, Bed & Breakfast...Cornish Cottage Style'.  We are offering a two night stay,  for two people for £200.  On arrival you will be treated to home made pasties...you have not tasted a proper pasty until you have tried a homemade one!  You will have all the ingredients to make breakfasts fit for a king, and we have also thrown in a three course dinner at the Kingswood Restaurant in London Apprentice.  These super short break deals have been put together so you can unwind, recharge and relax without having to worry about planning a thing.


If you are visiting at this time of year there is plenty going on to keep you entertained.  The Eden Project have opened their ice skating rink, which is open until February, and there are plenty of activities happening across the site for people of all ages.


There is also the Trebah Santa Trail,  Trereife Christmas craft Fair,  St Austell Torch Carnival,  Fowey Christmas Market,  Padstow Christmas Lights, Festive Looe or Santa by Steam in Bodmin.  More information about vents taking place can be found at Visit Cornwall.

Sad news

Hello there,


I am afraid we have some sad news.  Fraser, the shetland pony is no longer with us.  He passed away in late September having had terrible problems with his feet.  After consultation with the vet over a number of months we decided it was kinder on him if he was put to sleep as he could hardly walk on his feet.  It is always an agonising decision to have to make especially when we loved him so much and so many people were so fond of him.  He leaves behind Alice, who it seems is coping remarkably well.  She has been moved in with Spoldge the pig for the time being to keep her company, but she remains her usual cheeky self.


I also have to report that two of the donkey's are also under the weather.  One is lame, and one is just very down in the dumps, so the vet (who we seem to be keeping busy) has run some blood tests to see if he can pin point the problem.  For the time being both donkeys are being kept in a stable to try and give them time to recover, and to make it easier for the vet when he visits.


You may have seen the west on the news today, we have been fit by some torrential rain which has flooded a few places locally.  Luckily we were not floode, so just kept in the warm all day.  It is quite a change in the weather, we spent Saturday and Sunday on the beach.  Saturday we walked from River Valley Holiday Park, down the Pentewan cycle train to Pentewan, where we had a coffee on the beach, it was absolutely stunning with the rough seas.


Cornwall is busy this week with the half term holidays, which means that there are lots of extra things happening across the county from ghost tours at Pendennis Castle, to trails in Cardiham Woods, food foraging at Heligan to Ice skating at Eden, there really is something for everyone.

Sun glorious sun!

Hopefully you have also been blessed with this wonderful weather this weekend too.  It has been stunning down here in Cornwall and we have loved making the most of it.  We ventured to the North coast last week to St Agnes where the waves were crashing in with glorious sunshine.  I a took a picture of the surfers - pictured right.

I am pleased to report that our stay at Tregongeeves finished without too many other adventures.  The chickens persisted on trying to stay up later than they should, but I managed to get them in in the evenings.  The dogs and I had some lovely walks, apart from the night it rained.  After a five mile walk in the pelting rain we were all soaked.  So much so we had to bring Jack in next to the Aga and dry him off with a towel just to stop him shivering.  The next day I took them down to River Valley where both dogs decided being wet was the way forward...I had both of them in the River, which made for very smelly dogs in the back of the car!

My Mum and Dad have been visiting for a week, during their stay Judith treated us to one of home homemade pasties.  I think I have mentioned before she struggles to make small ones, to prove it I took a picture to show you.  I have to say they were delicious!

Judith's sister, Jacky is hosting a two day sale down at  River  Valley Storage units, behind River Valley on Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 October, 10am-4pm.  The sale includes outdoor clothes and lovely gift items.  I shall also be there with my ice cream bike selling refreshments so do pop in for a look.

We are pleased to report the Kings Wood Restaurant has reopened under new management.  Having visited we can confirm the food is very good.  We ventured there last weekend for Judith's birthday.  I won't tell you her age, but it was a significant mile stone!  The Kings Wood is in London Apprentice, the next village along from Polgooth.  Serving local food in lovely surroundings it is well worth a visit.

I noticed the other days adverts for Christmas markets around Cornwall, which seems odd when it is so hot!  The markets down here are always very festive and a lovely treat to visit.  There is Fowey Christmas Market, Padstow Christmas Market, Carols at Christmas at Pendennis Castle, Santa by Steam in Bodmin or the Victorian Christmas Fair in Truro.

How do you out-wit a chicken?

Well this week you will notice a big change at Tregongeeves...we have moved in!  Only temporarily, Judith and John are away with friends for the week.  It means I am in charge of the ever increasing animals!  Last night Ginnie (the black lab), Alice (the Shetland) and I had to hide around the corner as a rather naughty chicken kept seeing me coming when I was trying to shut them up for the night before Dr Martin started.  Every time I went near the run the chicken got all the other chickens out of their house.  In the end we out witted them and got them in before the start of my programme.  Bloomin' things!  Hopefully that will be the only story to tell from the week....


Opposite is a picture of Martha and Evie feeding the chickens last week.  They had a lovely week helping out move the animals around and they met the blacksmith we mentioned last week.


Last week I mentioned about the start of the food festival in Cornwall, this is followed by music festivals in October.  In October you can catch the Penzance Proms or why not pop along to the Lowender Peran Festival in late October - a festival celebrating all things Cornish!  I think Richard would like this as he has started going to Cornish lessoons every week.  Now to help spread this dying language I shall include a few words each week.  Dydh da, fatla genes?  Which means 'Hello, how are you?'.


This weekend sees a family fun day Griggs, the local outdoor shop.  The day promises to be fun for all the family.


We has a shock on Saturday when two different people arrived for the same cottage.  It turned out one guest had confused their weeks and in fact arrived a week early.  Luckily we were able to accommodate them in one of five star caravans at River Valley, but it does now mean we have Corner Cottage available at very short notice.  If you are interested in booking the cottage, then please call Alison or Richard (01726 73533) and mention you read about it on the blog.  The cottage is available for the week for £300.

The craft of the blacksmith

I am not going to lie to you, the weather has taken a little bit of an autumn turn over the last few days.  I have given up predicting whether it will get warm again, but I can confirm the leaves are taking on the most beautiful colours already.  Autumn is such a wonderful season, bringing with it stunning colours and a quieter Cornwall.


With the schools back this week, Cornwall seems to step down a gear, meaning it is a wonderful time to visit.  We still have some availability throughout the Autumn months so why not pop down and have a rest? I think Judith would agree that a walk along a windy beach, followed by a lovely meal in the village pub really is a good way to send the afternoon.  You can now borrow our dogs; Jack and/or Ginnie if you would like to have a hound as company - just after Judith when you arrive.


At this time of year my mind starts planning good hearty feast ad food is one of my favourite subjects!  It is food festival season in Cornwall over the coming months, with the finale being the Cornwall Food and Drink Festival starting on Friday 23rd September.  Also coming up is the Newquay Fish Festival, St Mawes Fish Festival, Boscastle Food and Arts Festival and the Falmouth Oyster Festival, all worth a visit.


I am pleased to report that Tom is back in full health, Judith was meant to go out riding with Alison this evening but got side tracked helping us move yet more boxes (obviously we are very grateful she got side tracked!).  This week the blacksmith visited the stables, a real craftsman.  Opposite is the picture we managed to snap with Judith and some guests.


I have noticed that older blogs disappear off this page, if you would like to read any of the older blogs please visit the page I post them on, you can subscribe to the blog here too so you never miss an update!

Bank Holiday brings the sun out

The weather has turned for the better down here in Cornwall.  We have had blue skies since Saturday and it looks here to stay (hopefully!).  


I was pleased to met someone today who reads the blog and is staying in the cottages this week...it is always nice to know we have readers!  I should explain that the blogs have been a bit sporadic the last few weeks as Richard and I have moved into a house (from the temporary caravan we were in).  Turns our peak holiday season is not the best time to move, but we are in now and things are slowly returning to normal.


For the last few months there have been just two donkeys at Tregongeeves; Bob and Blossom have had a little holiday at River Valley.  They will be returning this week, so there will be once again four donkeys in the front paddock.  Judith has had yet more bad luck with Tom, her horse, he had now developed a cough which cut short a ride last week, hopefully he will be fighting fit again soon.  Thankfully Judith has been helped out this week lots with willing egg collectors and Splodge feeders!


Last week Richard took a trip to the St Austell Brewery for a tour.  He has been wanting to go for a while, and it certainly did not disappoint.  The inside tour is perfect for a rainy day, informing you on how the beer is made with an interesting and funny tour, followed by a little bit of tasting afterwards! (I think there may have been a bit more than a little tasting going on!!)


Tregongeeves is situated perfectly to reach so many nice places to eat.  The Polgooth is nearest pub, in the village.  It is within walking distance, although there is a big hill to contend with, however eat and drink enough and you will not notice.  A short drive away in Gorran is the Barley Sheaf, a newly opened family run pub (a favourite of Judith's at the moment), or why not try the Kings Arms at Tregony - great home cooked food.


Tomorrow Judith is cooking pasties for us all.  They really are an experience.  I have started starving myself already as Judith is unable to make small pasties, only very, very large ones!  Whilst visiting you have to experience a 'real pasty'.  According to locals Rowe's is the best pasty maker, which you can get hold of in St Austell town.


If you fancy a short break in Cornwall this Autumn, don't forget you could pop down to River Valley Holiday Park.  Our 5 star caravan and camping site is well equipped with in door swimming pool, bike hire and children's play area.  Prices start from £30 a night (minimum of three nights).  Give Alison or Richard a call for more information on 01726 73533

time 'flies' when you are having fun

My, my, where has the time gone this past few weeks?  We have been flat out at Tregongeeves and River Valley.  Both the cottages and the holiday park have been full, and on top of that my twin borther and his girl friend have been visiting.  That has meant Richard and I have taken a few days out to share some Cornish delights with them.

Last week was the Fowey Regatta.  We popped over to see the Red Arrows before their tragic accident.  We then went over to Sam's on the Beach at Polkerris for a late supper - the food was amazing, and the sunset was pretty good too!

 Last Sunday we look the train from St Erth, into St Ives.  It was a stunning day, making St Ives look as wonderful as ever.  After a stroll and a well deserved afternoon tea (lashings of clotted cream and strawberry jam) we whizzed the short drive over to St Michael's Mount.

I spent a bit of time up with the animals at Tregongeeves this week.  Declan is my favourite!  If you stand in the field in front of the paddocks and call his name he comes running.  He loves it if you stratch his back - I don't think he can reach himself through all that wool!  He is pictured giving me a little kiss.

come rain or shine you can always have fun in Cornwall!

Richard and I decided to take note of the Blog and go to an outdoor show last week.   We went to see The Death of Sherlock Holmes at The Lost Garden of Heligans.  What an adventure it turned out to be!  We booked the tickets in the morning when the skies were blue.  By the evening fortunes had changed slightly, with the heavens opening.  Wet doesn't really do it justice - we were soaked to the skin.  But, we are British, so we picniced in style, we had a lovely spread with a bottle of Rose to help it go down.  The show was absolutely fantastic.  We have not laughed so much for a long time.  The show is touring all summer, and worth a visit if you get a chance.


This weekend we took the Mevagissey Ferry across to Fowey.  The small ferry takes 35 minutes to cross St Austell bay, it is lovely to see the coast line from a different angle, a thoroughly good day out.  Although I can recommend you don't sit at the back of the boat - I learnt the hard way that it is rather wet at the back (there is a common theme with this blog!)


Talking of Fowey, the Fowey Regatta starts this Sunday, there is a carnival on Wednesday night and the Red Arrows fly down the valley on the Thursday night.  I love the Red Arrows so am very excited about seeing them.


We can also highly recommend the Labyrinth Circus at Eden.  Now I must declare that I work part-time at Eden so I might be slightly bias, but the circus is utterly breath taking.  Not a circus as you know it, it is all on high ropes, and a little abstract but your heart will be in your mouth watching their stunning routine.  Also a handy tip for you, Eden is doing late night evening opening, if you go in after 3.30pm tickets are cheaper, but you can get annual passes so you could go back in your holiday for the full experience.


As I write the skies are lovely and blue, not a cloud in the sky, perfect barbecue weather.  If you are looking for a local butcher - Kittows is the place to go.  Situated opposite Tesco's the family run butchers produces the best sausages and burgers, and also has a large selection of local produce.

better late than never!

Sorry the blog is a few days late this week.  With full cottages and camp site we have been rather busy.  Coupled with fabulous weather this week, I have not been on the computer much. 


On Monday evening Richard (Judith & John's son and my Husband) and I popped down to Porthpean beach (pictured).  The beach was empty, but the sun was out and the sea was as calm as a mill pond.  A short drive away, it is well worth a visit.  There is a car park that costs £2 across from the beach.  I stocked up on portable BBQ's in this weeks shopping, so we can have our tea on the beach on future visits!


Judith has been grateful to the helpers she has with the animals over the last few weeks.  Pictured are George, Lucy, Catherine and Jenny who were eager egg collectors a few weeks ago.  Keep an eye out for the 'Frizzles' that are joining the flock.  The strangest looking chickens I have ever seen look like their feathers are on upside down!  



Over the summer outdoor theatre comes to life in Cornwall.  There are so many places to choose from.  The Minack, which I have previously mentioned is always popular. But there are also a number of touring theatres to chose from.   The Miracle Theatre Company are currently touring with The Death of Sherlock Holmes, they are performing at Heligan on Wednesday night, a stunning setting where you can take your own picnic.  They tour until 29th August.  Or there is Judith's favourite - the Kneehigh Theatre who perform near Truro.


Don't forget you can get all the latest information about Tregongeeves Farm Cottages and River Valley Holiday Park by following us on Facebook.  We would love to see your pictures posted on these pages too.

A bit of a treat

The view from the Scarlet

Well, this week has not been the brightest, in fact it has been more like autumn at times, however yesterday the weather turned for the better.  It was a stunning day with beautiful blue skies.  Richard and I both had the day off so we took the opportunity to sample The Scarlet - we like to try things before we recommend them to you!


We can really recommend the Scarlet.  They are doing a super lunch offer over the summer; 2 courses for £16 or 3 courses for £19, and if your sign up for their newsletter you get a free glass of bubbly each!  Obviously we went for research purposes only, but the stunning location of The Scarlet over looking Mawgan Porth beach, with the hot tubs and natural swimming pool nestled in the cliffs makes it feel like a real treat.


After lunch we had a fabulous drive along the coastal road passing Bedruthan Steps, St Merryn and the Cornish Arms, Rick Stein's latest business venture.  We then stopped off at Padstow to take in the small but beautiful fishing village, made famous by the Stein empire.


This weekend sees a lot of events on around Cornwall; at the Royal Cornall Showground there is a 'Grand Day Out' - lots of events and activities in aid of the local hospice.  It is also The Bocnonnoc Steam Fair, a sight not to be missed!


Closer to home, next weekend sees the start of the Charlestown Regatta, a packed week of fun and entertainment for the family.

Quick update...

...I forgot to mention, we have a couple of very good availability offers.  Check out our homepage to see which cottages are available in the coming month due to last minute cancellations.

Moor nice weather

This week we have been blessed with stunning sunshine every day, with just a light wind every now and again it has been glorious.  Sadly it has changed a little for the weekend, but we are optimistic it will be nice again by Monday!

Making the most of the weather Judith and Richard ventured out to Bodmin Moor for a lovely walk with the dogs (pictured).  The Moor, famed for it’s potential ‘beast’ is a scenic place for walks with unspoilt views.  No beast was spotted on Judith’s walk but the views were enjoyed.

The animals are growing very fast in this lovely weather.  River Valley now has a full selection of animals.  Judith treated us to two new runner ducks to keep Jemima company and a selection of chickens.   The pets corner at Tregongeeves has also had a bit of a face lift.  Declan, Wilma and Betty are now all up near the stables, keeping Splodge the pig company.  There are also two chicken runs and lots and lots of chicks.  Judith is always grateful of willing helpers to collect eggs and feed the flock, so don’t be shy to ask to help out in the mornings.

During the damper weather, it is always a good time to visit some of the Counties indoor attractions.  About 60% of The Eden Project is under cover so it is a good choice; then in between the showers you could take in the extensive grounds the Biomes are set within. 

Or why not visit the St Austell Brewery Centre.  Not only an interesting tour, but a chance to sample some of the great ales they produce.

Failing that St Austell has a great cinema, showing Harry Potter and all the summers latest releases.

I am off to St Ewe, a tiny but beautiful village, this afternoon to sell ice creams at their church fete.  I have everything crossed the rain moves up country so I stay dry!

Heidi-hi!

Hello,


It is Heidi writing the blog today - I think I will be writing it over the summer months whilst Judith is super busy welcoming guests and tending to the ever growing number of animals.  I am Judith's daughter-in-law and live at River Valley, but am up at Tregongeeves most days so I am sure you will see me about.  Like Judith I share a huge love of animals, I have to confess that it is a close call between Declan, Splodge and Alice as to who is my favourite!

Charlestown

The weather this week has been some what of a mixed bag, baking hot one minute, heavy showers the next, we have been caught out more than once this week.  We have checked the weather though and it is meant to become more settled thankfully next week.


Judith has been mentioning the Feast weeks in previous blogs, and last weekend we popped to the Mevagissey Feast week finale, a carnival and fireworks with Judith and John.  What a night it was, the parade was stunning, full of colour, music and fun.  And then there were the fireworks.  They were stunning, being let off over the harbour.  If you get a chance to visit one of the feast weeks we really recommend going.  We also popped over to Polperro Festival a few weeks back which was ever so much fun.

Polperro Festival

Recently my Uncle visited, as an exit navy man he was ever so excited about visiting the Ship Wreck Centre at Charlestown.  The museum is very quirky and full of history about the local area, it is well worth a visit.  If you are into maritime things, then Falmouth is also a fantastic place to visit.  Home to the National Maratime Museum, you are sure to be in a treat.  If it is being on the water that 'floats your boat' then why not take a trip on the Mevagissey to Fowey Ferry - the small boat is good value, and if you are really lucky the Captain will stop to look at things on the way suck as basking sharks which can be found off the coast at this time of year.

Fireworks at Mevagissey

Decorations throughout Mevagissey

Glorious sunshine!

My, hasn’t the weather been wonderful?  I was telling a guest this week that if it starts cloudy with what we call ‘mizzle’ in the morning, by about 11am it will be glorious sunshine.  If it starts sunny then usually it turns grey and damp.  Doesn’t always work, but I tend to believe it!  Hopefully it is here to stay.

I always think of the beach when it is like this.  We don’t often get the chance to go, but the North coast is worth a visit.  It is further to drive but with stunning little villages and towns such as St Ives, Padstow and Rock it is worth the effort.

I find it best to arrive in St Ives by train.  The views across the bay are utterly stunning, make sure you sit on the right hand side to fully appreciate them.  You can easily pick up the train from St Erth, or go from St Austell and then change at St Erth – it just saves on trying to find a parking space.
 

St Ives is famed for it’s allure to artists, apparently the light is better there (so they said on Countryfile).  The narrow streets are full of lovely little shops, and there are some great places to eat too.

Padstow, is also a lovely place to visit.  Well and truly on the map now thanks to Rick Stein the small harbour side village is packed full of ‘Stein’ treats.  Whether it is his cake shop, chip shop, bistro, or restaurant you are guaranteed to find some yummy treats.

Closer to home this weekend sees the May’s Poultry Auction take place.  A real traditional farming affair with the best of the best chickens up for auction – I am tempted to pop along and see if I can get Jeminia Duck a couple of friends to keep her company.

Finally, if you are visiting I can thoroughly recommend Mevagissey on Saturday night.  The end of the feast week sees a carnival and fireworks display – one not to be missed!

Summer sun is here!

Heidi's Ice Creamm Tricycle!

Sorry I am a few days late with the blog this week, I have been away for the weekend with Alison, enjoying the sunshine!  It has been lovely and sunny here in Cornwall, and we are hopeful it might be here to stay (fingers crossed!).

Last week we extended the chicken run, we now have a Pekin run too.  The Pekin chicks are growing up so fast, I have built them their own run so they don't get bullied by the bigger chickens.  However for the time being I have Heidi & Alison's new chicks in the new run.  They have a make shift house, but they were desperate to venture outside, so we had to move them from the stable they were in.  Jemima the duck is quite a character.  The smaller chicks cuddle her to keep warm!

A view from the Hall Walk

Friday  saw the arrival of our latest business venture.  Well I should say Heidi's business venture- an old fashioned Ice Cream Tricycle - it is quite a sight!  I have included a picture of her going around River Valley.  From next week Valley's Ice Creams will be on the cycle trail between London Apprentice and Pentewan - so do pop down and sample some of the lovely local ice cream!

This really is such an exciting time of year, everywhere you look there is another Cornish event on.  However you can't beat a good walk when the sun is out.  My favourite walk is through Luxulyan Woods, sheltered from the sun I am quite often the only person around.  If not there is  the Hall Walk starting from Fowey and walking the opposite side of the harbour,  the views are stunning, and the cup of tea and slice of cake are a well earned treat at the end!

A few more new arrivals!

Hello there,

Jemina and her friends!

I am back after a lovely week away.  We visited the Appleby Horse Fair with our two friends, it really was very interesting with so much to look at and so many interesting people.  We managed to squeeze in some wonderful walks in around Hawkshead.  I am glad to get back though to the hustle and bustle of Tregongeeves.


Whilst I was gone we had a devastating fox attack down at River Valley, he took all the chickens and two ducks.  So Heidi & Alison are on the offensive, making the run more secure and tidying it up.  In the meantime they have acquired a duckling (Jemina) and 6 chicks of various varieties.  They are up in the Tregongeeves stables, so take a look at them if your visiting, they are so adorable.


The summer season brings Cornwall to life with so many events and activtites on.  In the coming weeks we have guests staying with us who are visiting the Eden Project Sessions - various musicians are playing throughout July in their outdoor stage.  Talking of musicians Alison, Charmaine and I visited Cardiff this week to watch Take That in concert - what a show, we had a super time.


I also noticed the programme for the Minack Theatre this week, it looks like they are some greats shows being performed this summer - and all at a cheap price, tickets are usually around £9.  The Minack is an outdoor theatre on the edge of the cliffs - the stunning location means it creates a wonderful atmosphere.


Off to catch up on bits and pieces now!

The start of the feast week & festival season in Cornwall

It has been a busy week with Judith and John away, they have been having a nice time in Windermere.  Richard and I have learnt the ropes up at Tregongeeves, which is a lot to remember with so many animals and buildings to look after!  It is such a pleasure to welcome guests in each week though, this week saw the return of some guests who have been staying with us for over forty years.  It was lovely to hear stories about Richard’s Grandad, who I never got to meet and how things used to be done back in the day. 

Last weekend we saw the first proper heat wave, which brought the camping field at River Valley alive  The smell of barbeques and the sound of laughter filled the air.  

At Tregongeeves we have had our work cut out with the chickens and chicks; we now have to move the runs each day to make sure there is enough grass for the ever growing balls of feathers!  With this hot weathers comes the challenge also of making sure all the water feeders are topped up…I never knew how much water chickens drunk (apparently it has something to do with needing water to make eggs!).

This week is the Royal Cornwall Show.  It really is a great show and we can recommend a visit.  The Royal Cornwall Shows seems to mark the start of many festivals around Cornwall, and they never disappoint.  Last year we stumbled across the Polperro Festival; streets were full of Morris Men and music was coming from every corner.  A guest this week was also telling me about Mevigessey Feast week which takes place in a couple of weeks.  The event I am most looking forward to this summer though is the Fowey Regatta.  The tiny streets are filled with entertainment, food and drink.  But for me the highlight will be the Red Arrows flying through the valley – they never cease to bring me out in goose bumps.

Judith will return next week, so bye from me!

Enjoy this weather on a beach!

With Judith on a well deserved break this week in Windermere, Richard and I have been appointed as the official blog writer, animal looker-afterer, and house sitters! 

This week has not been a good one on the animal front.  At River Valley we have something preying on our poor chickens and ducks.  This week we have lost six chickens and one of our new ducks – Tafty, the pretty little female.  The animals are being kept in their pen for a few days to try and put the suspect fox off them.

On a happier note the chicks at Tregongeeves are growing up very fast.  We should soon be able to work out how many cockerels and how many hens we have.  Judith has had some helpers this week; with children from Gallery helping collect eggs, and feed Splodge his favourite food…black bananas!

With this glorious sunshine it is a great excuse to hit the beach.  From River Valley, you can hire bikes and head down to Pentewan, a beautiful little village with a pub who’s beer garden is over looking the old harbour.

Or you could try Porthpean, a great sandy family beach, with parking, a small shop and at low tide there are lots of little rock pools to explore. 

Whatever you are up to, we hope you are enjoying this great weather

Heidi & Richard

Lovely long Bank Holiday weekend

We are busy here both at Tregongeeves and River Valley Holiday Park over the Bank Holiday weekend.  On Monday we are playing host to the St Austell Rotary Club Duck Race.  We have been hosting the sponsored duck race for a number of years now, and hope this year we will get sunshine to enjoy the day.  If you fancy coming to the race it starts from River Valley Holiday Park, it should be a great laugh for all the family.

The weekly update on animals is fairly quiet at the moment.  The chicks are all growing up and I have another hen sitting on eggs – this time it is Pekins – they are such pretty little things with their feathery feet.  If they all hatch Alison and Heidi will be looking after them in the new chicken run they are building down at River Valley – although I don’t want to start counting my chickens before they hatch!



With the long weekend ahead and the hope of some sunshine thoughts turn to things to do this weekend.  I can highly recommend Fowey.  A quintessential Cornish fishing town, it has tiny streets jam-packed with super shops – ideal for window shopping or treating yourself!

Fowey is also home to some wonderful places to eat.  Sam’s is one of our favourites, renown for their burgers, but also offering freshly caught fish.  You can’t book, so we advise to go early, but even if you have to wait there is plenty of good spots to people watch.  One of my favourites is the 'Surf and Turf' – steak with half a lobster and prawns…I am getting hungry just thinking about it!

Walking around Fowey in the evening, the little streets seem to hold in the smell of cooking, you really are spoilt for choice. Fowey caters for all tastes, whether it is a bag of fish and chips over looking the river (we recommend a place just near the RNLI shop, it has a small little sitting area, with an open front so you can shelter if raining), there is a new Italian down in the square – we have yet to try this, but it looks and smells wonderful, or there are a number of hidden cafes, waiting to be tried and tested, including Pinky Murphy’s – a bohemian mixture of styles and tastes.

Wishing you a lovely Bank Holiday.

Welcoming Tom & Tafty

Tom the duck taking a dip

Hello there,

I am pleased to report we have yet more additions to the flock!  Heidi & Alison have brought two new ducks – beautifully coloured- called Tom & Tafty.  Since the disappearance of my beloved white duck, Mr Duck (who is a female, but there was some confusion and the rest should we say is history), anyway, Mr Duck has been so lonely so we have moved them all to River Valley Holiday Park, and hopefully Mr Duck will become friends with Tom & Tafty and we will start to get some duck eggs!

Talking of eggs, I am pleased to report all chicks are growing up fast, becoming adorable balls of feathers.  I am still not sure how many hens I have compared to cockerels so keeping my fingers crossed until they are a bit bigger.  Declan the sheep is looking rather sorry for himself after being shorn this week.

Poppies at Tregongeeves

John and I popped up to the Devon County Show on Thursday, a proper country fair, which has displays and lovely stalls.  A good event, but nothing compared to the upcoming Royal Cornwall Show.  The Show takes place 9^th-11^th June and is well worth a visit.  I managed to lay my hands on some lovely garden furniture last year and Alison got well stocked up at the Seasalt stall.

With glorious sunshine last weekend I managed to spend some well-earned time in the garden.  The poppies (pictured) are out in wonderful bloom at the moment.  This weekend we hope to pop out to Mevagissey.  There are some lovely places to eat in ‘Meva’, such as Roovay’s – a yummy fish restaurant, Alvorada – Portuguese , Market Square Café – great for breakfast, we will be spoilt for  choice!  

Tregongeeves expands…by ten!

Tom, my horse

Goodness me, the animals are keeping me busy!  I am pleased to let you know the blue eggs hatched- all ten of them!  The chicks are such a beautiful colour, if you are visiting they are up in the paddock near the tennis court. They are ever so hard to take pictures of as they keep moving – so let me know if you manage to get a good picture.  Mother hen is doing a good job so far, looking after the tiny chicks.

Tom (pictured), my horse is stable bound for the next week or so.  He has an infection in his hoof, poor boy, so has to rest and keep off it as much as possible – easier said than done with a horse!

I didn’t make it to Heligan at the weekend, but Heidi & Richard went.  They have posted some beautiful pictures on our Facebook page. By the looks of it they picked just the right time to go with the bigger plants in full bloom, producing wonderful carpets of colour.  If you visit Heligan you get a voucher to get 25% off Eden entry so it is worth doing both of them.

I had a wonderful day on Saturday out in the garden here at Tregongeeves, trying to get back on top of all the weeding.  I managed to plant a few new bits and made a start on the pots around the cottages – it was lovely to be out and about.

This Sunday is the Caerhays Castle fun day, raising money for the local hospice.  Caerhays is a stunning house, in an equally stunning location, with a lovely beach, I would highly recommend a visit if you are around.

The chicks have hatched!

Golly, I just don’t know where the time goes!

Another busy time for us, which is always nice as it means there are lots of people around the cottages and the camp site.  Last week a youngest learnt to ride his bike down at River Valley, brings a smile to my face!

We had great excitement here this week when 8 of my eggs hatched.  So far so good, hen and chicks are all doing well. This weekend the hatching of the blue eggs is eagerly anticipated.  I have posted some pictures on our Facebook page of the new arrivals.

Talking of which, I am pleased to say we are now on Facebook.  It is not something I use much but Alison, Paddy, Richard and Heidi are updating the pages with information about things to do and pictures out and about so do have a look.  Apparently if you ‘like’ our page you will get updates on what we are doing…all a bit beyond me but give it a go!

With such lovely weather down here (after a few showers in the weeks) I shall be popping out and about in the next few days.  I hope to visit the Lost Garden of Heligan this weekend, the plants are truly amazing this time of year, in fact I think this my favourite time to visit.

Afterwards I share be popping into Lobbs Farm Shop.  Owned and run by the Lobb Family it has a huge selection of local meat and vegetables…I might even rustle up a roast depending on the weather!

I must also recommend to you the wonderful Trewithen Restaurant in Lostwithiel.  Lostwithiel itself is worth a visit for it’s large selection of antique shops.  But the Trewithen is worth a visit if you like quality food in a homely environment.  Claire and her husband make you feel at ease, serving fabulous food.  We were there a few weekends ago for John’s birthday-I won’t say how old he was- let’s just say it was a ‘milestone’!

Off to count my chicks now.

Bye for now
Judith

Welcome to my blog!

Hello there!

Thank you for reading my blog.  This is my first ever blogging venture and I am very excited about it.

There is always so much on at Tregongeeves Holiday Cottages, but the last month has been busier than usual!

Not only have we been busy preparing the cottages for the Easter period we have also ventured up to Norfolk for Richard, my son's wedding.  It was a glorious day, right at the beginning of the stunning weather we have been enjoying.  It was lovely to enjoy a few days away, with the wedding going well we had such a relaxing time.


Straight after the wedding Richard and the new Mrs Heidi Clemo moved to Cornwall to help us with the cottages and River Valley Holiday Park.  We are so pleased to have them back and have already started training Richard up.

The animals are a constant pleasure of mine; we have had a busy week with young guests helping me collect the eggs.  All is not happy though as my treasured white duck has disappeared.  There is no sign of a fox getting her so we are now left questioning whether someone took her.  Her poor friend, the black duck is like a lost soul.

Things rarely stay still around here though, and this week there was great excitement when the blue eggs I recently brought hatched.  Often seen as a speciality in the likes of Waitrose, I thought I would get some unusual eggs. We just have to hope now they are all hens and not cockerels!  I will post a picture of them in the next few days.

We have a busy weekend ahead, full to the bream, but hopefully we will get some more good weather.  If you are in Cornwall this weekend we can thoroughly recommend the Hall Walk in Fowey, Heidi & Richard did it last weekend.  Throughout the walk there are carpets of bluebells and wild garlic - a glorious treat for the eyes and the nose!  Or why not try our Eden's new cafe in St Austell.  With free coffee before 11am with all meals it is very reasonably priced.
I hope you will follow my adventures here at Tregongeeves
Love Judith