Camelot - Tintagel

Mention Tintagel, and the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table come to mind immediately. Since Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote his History of the Kings of Britain in 1150, visitors have been coming to Tintagel Castle to see the legendary King Arthur’s birthplace. According to Geoffrey of Monmouth’s tales, King Arthur was born in Tintagel to the beautiful Queen Igerna under the protection of Merlin the magician who lived in a cave below the mighty fortress.

Fact or fiction, Arthurian legends have been good business for Tintagel. Poets, artists, historians and sightseers have been flocking to this little village on the northern Cornish coastline since the Victorian era. This fascination with King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, Lancelot and Excalibur has been further fuelled by the many Hollywood blockbusters. These days Tintagel is a popular tourist destination for people holidaying in Cornwall.

Things to See and Do

If it’s King Arthur’s Tintagel that you’ve come to see, Tintagel Castle ruins would probably be your first port of call. Set against the dramatic and rugged north Cornwall coastline, the extensive site is mysterious and atmospheric. To learn about the King Arthur legends and history, the Arthurian Centre at Camelford has a huge exhibition space and video that will help you unravel some of the fact from faction. The Centre is set in 20 acres of grounds which surround the ‘King Arthur’s Stone’. Here you can wander through the fields and see where King Arthur and Mordred fought their last battle. Archaeologists are still digging on this site and in summer you may get to see them at work.

Tintagel Village

Tintagel Village, Cornwall

But don’t leave Tintagel without stopping in the village. Tintagel village is easy to explore as the places of interest and the many shops and inns are along Fore Street, the main Tintagel thoroughfare. And the spirit of King Arthur prevails in the village as well. The shops and inns have names that make a play on the Arthurian legends. The medieval Tintagel Old Post Office is worth a visit and further up the road is the King Arthur’s Hall and the Medthodist church.

Tintagel has a range of tea rooms and pubs where you can enjoy a Cornish pasty or the famous Cornish cream tea.

If you’re planning to spend a few days here, there are many hotels, guest houses, inns, cottages and other accommodation to choose from in and around Tintagel, including the five-star Camelot. Nearby is Boscastle, another little historic village.

See more photos of Tintagel at Travelsignposts Tintagel photo gallery.

Map of Cornwall Coast:

Eden Project - Giant Bee

From the air they look like Jurasic golf balls that have struck earth and been semi-embedded into the ground. Those familiar with the Eden Project in Cornwall will know of these biomes that house plant species collected from all over the world.

The Eden project in Cornwall is an all-encompassing environmental compound that’s been built on land that was previously an unused clay pit.  The centre piece of this complex is it’s two giant domes which replicate a Mediterranean environment and a Tropical environment which is the largest greenhouse in the world.

The Tropical Biome covers an area of 1.56 hectares in which tropical plans such as banana trees, coffee, rubber and giant bamboo are kept.

The Mediterranean Biome takes up 1.6 acres of space and house plants such as olives and grapes vines.

There’s also an uncovered Outdoor Biome which includes plants such as tea, lavender, sunflowers and hops from the temperate regions of the world.

The Eden Project is utopia for those keen on gardens and plants and environmentalists. The Project runs environmental education, activities and workshops. It’s a great place for kids as there are all kinds of fun and educational activities to keep them amused.

The Eden Project is easily accessible by car, train or bus.  (See here for more information >.)  If you are  staying in the region, you can even walk or cycle there.

Opening Hours:

Mar 29 – Oct 31: 10:00 – 18:00
Nov    1 – Mar 28: 10:00 – 16:30

Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

Address:

Eden Project
Bodelva, St Austell
Cornwall, PL24 2SG

Antony House - Cornwall

We may well have missed including Antony House on our West Country travels had Alice in Wonderland not let us in on the secret of this National Trust property.

Antony House was they key location for the filming of Alice in Wonderland in September 2008 and Johnny Depp’s famous Mad Hatter’s tea party was set in the gardens.  At that time Antony House and Torpoint achieved overnight fame with Depp fans hoping to catch a glimpse of this Holywood heartthrob.  But Depp himself never really came to Cornwall – although some fans, so hyped up with excitement, claim to have seen him landing by helicopter!

Just in case you don’t know where the Mad Hatter’s tea party was held, Antony House is in Torpoint, a town on the East Cornwall peninsula, just across the River Tamar from Plymouth.

Antony House History

Antony House was built between 1711-1721 for Sir William Carew, whose family owned the estate since 1492. This 18th century mansion is nestled in parkland bounded by the estuaries of the Tamar and Lynher Rivers to the east and north and by the sea to the south.

This historic National Trust property consists of a central two-storey block faced with silver-grey stone and two brick wings joined by colonades.  Unlike many country houses Antony House was spared the modernisation of the Victorian period.  Apart from the addition of a 19th century porch the house has not been altered since.

Explore the interior of the house and you’ll see the exceptional quality of its furnishings.  The rooms are panelled in Dutch oak and some still contain the original 18th century furniture. They also display some fine china, tapestries, embroideries and many interesting portraits.

Generations of the Carew family lived on the estate before Antony House was built.  The paintings and treasures in Antony House today have been collected over a period of almost 600 years. The splendid collection of portraits includes work by Reynolds and a painting of Charles I at his trial.  Look out for the portrait of Richard Carew who faces Charles I across the entrance hall.  Richard Carew was a historian and author of the ‘Survey of Cornwall’ – he inherited the estate in 1564.

Antony House’s Magnificent Gardens

Antony’s superb 25 acre landscaped garden is partly the work of Humphry Repton (one of the great landscape gardeners) who swept away the formal parterres to the north of the house in the late 18th century. The topiary and yew hedges are the work Hon. Reginald Pole Carew who redesigned the garden in 1800.  The lawns sweep down to the River Tamar and there are many species of indigenous and exotic trees and a collection of camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons, magnolias and other flowering shrubs.

The gardens contain a collection of stone carvings from the North West Frontier of India and a temple bell from Burma brought back to Antony House by General Sir Reginald Pole-Carew. There is also a natural woodland of 50 acres bordering the estuary of the River Lynher.

Antony House was given to the National Trust in 1961 by Sir John Carew-Pole. The gardens are in the care of Carew-Pole Garden Trust.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

The ‘Alice’ Meets Antony Exhibition at Antony House tells the story of Antony’s transformation during the filming of Disney’s Alice in Wonderland.  On weekends and bank holidays, children of all ages can take part in the Mad Hatter’s tea party which includes dressing up, music, workshops and games. 
(Call 01752 812 191 if you’d like to book a place at the tea party.)  The National Trust has hopes that the movie will boost visitors numbers from 25,000 to 65,000 this year.  Our visit will hopefully contribute to achieving the desired visitor increase of 40,000.

Address:
Antony Estate
Torpoint, Cornwall
PL11 2QA

Devon and Cornwall countryside

Devon and Cornwall possess miles of magnificent coastline, secluded coves, fishing villages, romantic ancient moorland, soft river estuaries and endless stretches of beaches.  Walkers, surfers, sailing buffs and holiday makers who simply want a relaxing break from their hectic world will find this part of England a fascinating place to visit.

These two neighbouring counties have a lot to offer holiday makers, but outside of Britain, we do not tend to hear a lot about Devon and Cornwall as a tourist destination.  Certainly the British people know about this magical corner of England and Cornwall is the number one summer destination for the Brits, followed not too far behind by Devon.

If you’re holidaying in London and have a few days to explore this part of England, Viator has a four-day small group tour that’ll take you through the back-roads of Devon and Cornwall and really get deep into the West Country.

Tour Route and Attractions

Day One:
From London you’ll drive through Wiltshire, England’s oldest county.  Travelling across the amazing Salisbury Plain, you’ll see the great prehistoric temple of Stonehenge and a landscape simply littered with ancient burial sites. You’ll also see the evidence of Iron Age hill forts, possible sites of where the great Celtic king, Arthur and his Round Table knights took on the Saxon invaders.

Your journey continues to Winchester to see the great Round Table in the medieval hall. Next take time to explore Cadbury Castle, perhaps the site of Camelot, and some lovely surrounding thatched villages before arriving at your accommodation base in Devon or Somerset borders for three nights.

Day Two:
Today you’ll explore the timeless country of Dorsetshire. This is real back-roads country where you’ll believe time has stood still amidst the villages and harbors of the region. Jane Austen’s Lyme Regis is one of the highlights of the day, as will be Thomas Hardy’s cottage and monument. You will be introduced to a few martyrs (such as the trade unionists of Tolpuddle, and those who died at the “bloody Judge” Jefferies’ hand). You’ll also see the famed Chesil Beach and the quaint town of Dorchester. And there’ll be time for shopping in the lace and antique town of Honiton.

Depending on time and interest, there may be time to include Lawrence of Arabia’s home, a carved giant and England’s smallest pub! This is a day that you can really call getting down the “back-roads”.

Day Three:
Cross the beautiful and awesome landscape of the Dartmoor National Park, en route to the north Cornwall coast. Here, you’ll visit Tintagel Castle, the reputed birthplace of King Arthur. The castle sits on top of the wild cliffs accessible only by walking. Later, visit a selection of the quaint fishing villages of the north Cornwall and Devon coasts. This day will be a photographer’s delight and you should be prepared to do a lot of shooting!

Finally, a day in Cornwall would not be complete without a stop for a famed Cornish “pastie” somewhere on route, perhaps in a thatched-roofed country pub?

Day Four:
On today’s itinerary is Cheddar Gorge and the mystic town of Glastonbury, site of Arthur’s burial and New Age capital of England. Here you’ll see the ancient abbey and the mysterious “Tor”. Next visit Wells and its famed Norman 12th century cathedral before travelling the short distance to the stunning city of Bath. You’ll have time to explore this elegant Georgian city and its Roman remains before the drive back to London partially by the old coaching road.

This interesting tour of England’s West Country includes:

• 3 nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner
• Hotel pickup (selected hotels)
• Entrance fees
• Professional driver/guide
• Transport
• Hotel drop off (central London hotels)

Find out more about touring Devon and Cornwall here.

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Newquay Island View

Boasting some of the best beaches and surfing in Britain, Newquay is one of Cornwall’s premier holiday sites for those seeking a beach holiday. Unsurprisingly, it has obtained a reputation for being England’s surfing capital.

Unfortunately, Newquay’s popularity has also attracted negative consequences in recent times.  Hordes of school-leavers decending upon the town, underage drinking, loud parties, drunken behaviour have been a problem for Newquay and caused negative publicity.

Hopefully, action by the police and authorities will restore Newquay to the restful holiday resort that it was.

There’s much more to Newquay than being just a surfers’ paradise.  You can swim, build sandcastles or walk the coastal path and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Beach lovers will want to head to Fistral Beach – this is in fact the best known surfing beach offering fast, hollow waves for surfers. Another popular beach in Newquay is Watergate Bay although this beach is more suited to beginner surfers. Beginners may also want to try Crantock Beach with its wide stretches of golden sand sheltered by tufted dunes. There are numerous places in Newquay to hire surfing equipment and surf schools are also available for those who come only to ride the waves.

Food & Drink In Newquay

Silk's Restaurant

As you would expect, Newquay offers a wide variety of cuisine options for just about every pallet. Local specialities include cream teas & Cornish pasties offered by the many tea rooms & bakeries. Cornish ice-cream is also very rich and creamy to taste. Newquay is also well known for its seafood and has a huge range of international cuisine restaurants from Indian and Chinese to Mexican and Italian. One thing’s for sure, when your visit to Newquay is over you’ll probably have to start a strict diet!

The Blue Reef Aquarium

If you’re interested in tropical marine life then a visit to the Newquay Blue Reef Aquarium is a must – one of the highlights is a fascinating underwater tunnel that visitors can walk through while witnessing the marine animals swim around in their natural habitats.

Other Things To Do In Newquay

As well as its fabulous beaches, Newquay is a holiday paradise for families.  There’s something for everyone here, including the nearby theme parks of Springfields Fun Park and Crealy Adventure Park, Dairyland Farm World and the Lappa Valley Railway. Trenance Gardens has a lovely boating lake, indoor and outdoor tennis courts and a bowling green.

Newquay has a good zoo containing a wide varierty of animals over 10 acres of land. Also popular (especially with children) is Newquay Water World – containing a tropical pool, simulation waterfall and volcanos and even state of the art gym facilities for adults. Intrepid thrill-seekers can get a buzz of adrenaline at the Lusty Glaze Adventure Centre.

Other activity based entertainment include pool, snooker, bowling and a range of other sports and activities. Looking for something a little different? Try the Tunnels Through Time museum (a very novel way of looking at and learning about the past).

Fishing Boats at Sunset

Golfers who fancy chasing a ball around acres of turf will enjoy the scenic course overlooking Fistral Beach. And if you’re not having a good game, you can always blame it on the stunning scenery.

Fishing – this is one of the most popular activities in England – at Newquay there are some excellent opportunities for a wide range of fishing from fly-fishing to deep sea fishing.

Newquay Accommodation

Whether you’re looking for Newquay hotels, bed and breakfast places, cottage holidays, surf lodges,  self-catering accommodation, caravan parks or luxury hotels, there is a large range of Newquay places to stay to suit all budget types.

Close to Newquay is the town of Bodmin – once the capital of Cornwall, it’s now an elegant little market town well worth a visit.

Book Hotels in Newquay

Mousehole, Cornwall

Cornwall – the English Riviera?

On the very south-western tip of England lies the beautiful county of Cornwall. With a delightful mix of superb beaches (among the best in Britain), outstanding scenery and charming towns, villages and cities, this county has something to offer everyone for their holiday in Cornwall.

With the wealth of attractions & scenic beauty on offer, Cornwall has just as many affordable holiday cottages, hotels, B&Bs & guesthouses to suit the budgets of all holidaymakers.

Cornwall is also Britain’s premier surfing capital– not surprising given that it enjoys the best weather anywhere in the country. It also has some of the cleanest beaches and attracts visitors by the millions every year.

Whether it’s lazing on lovely white beaches, ambling along wonderful sub-tropical gardens or exploring quiet, picture-perfect fishing villages you’re after, you’ll find it all when you visit Cornwall.

The famous King Arthur is also believed to have come from Cornwall, in a small town called Tintagel. Cornish history is mystical, ancient and highly fascinating. The many delightful towns and villages are often named after the Christian missionaries that have influenced them.

Like your food and drink? Cornish pubs are known for offering good hearty foods and your choice of flavoursome ales. And let’s not forget the “Cornish pastie” – a tasty must-have  meat pie that must be experienced when visiting Cornwall.

But the good news is that you don’t have to eat Cornish pasties throughout your entire holiday in Cornwall.  With its wide expanses of coastline, there’s plenty of seafood here and the celebrity chefs have arrived as well.  Whether you prefer French cuisine, Mediterranean or modern cooking, there’s plenty to choose from.  Rick Stein alone has four restaurants in Padstow and a pub in St. Merryn.  I once saw this man barbeque a piece of moonfish on the beach and it looked so delicious that the memory has stayed with me to this day.

Holidays In Devon

Quaint cottage, Devon

Devon is famously known to offer the traveller a feast of splendid scenery, lovely beaches and pretty harbour towns. Popular destinations within Devon include Plymouth, Torbay and Dartmoor National Park.

Devon is also a walkers paradise, and like neighbouring Cornwall is one of the most popular holiday destinations within the United Kingdom. And it’s very easy to see why – lush pastures break out into spectacular coastlines, making Devon a Mecca for those hunting for a taste of quaint old England.

While enjoying a holiday in Devon, be sure to experience the wonderfully rugged coastline scenery. Devon is also blessed with some stunning countryside – charming narrow little roads amble on for miles with nothing but lush greenery and flora that offers a myriad of explosive colours during the summertime. Driving through these single-lane roads is an experience like no other – arrive in a Devon town that’s dotted with picture perfect thatched cottages and enjoy a cream tea and scone in one of the many tea-shops.

Devon offers the traveller a classic English village experience – and there are many great country cottages, hotels, self-catering accommodation, B&Bs and many more types of accommodation to cater to the needs of both the luxury traveller and budget conscious back-packer.

Like Cornwall, many famous chefs have found their way to Devon and if you want to treat yourself to some fine cuisine there’s even a restaurant here with one Michelin star.

Devon also offers some of the best year-round weather to be found anywhere in the UK. Temperatures in January (when the rest of the country is shivering) average a maximum of 9 degrees.

If you enjoy coasts & estuaries then a holiday in Devon will delight you – the estuaries (such as the Teign) also attract many species of migratory birds.

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Cornwall beaches

This magical little corner of Cornwall offers wonderful, sandy beaches and a delightful harbour area.  You can lose yourself in the maze of narrow cobbled streets with flower-filled courtyards and alleyways bursting with galleries, craft and clothing shops,  cafes and artists studios – an absolute joy for those wanting to discover “Classic Old England”.

But what St Ives is internationally renowned for is the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and Tate St Ives.

St Ives has very strong historical ties to the arts community – and testament to this can be found at the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. Just a few of the famous 20th century artists from St Ives include Barbara Hepworth, John Wells and Ben Nicholson. Those interested in art will also want to check out the Tate St Ives Museum, part of the Tate Gallery in London.  Opened in 1993, Tate St. Ives is perhaps the flagship of Cornish art.

What else is there in St Ives

Art aside there’s plenty for the general tourist too – fine, sandy beaches and a myriad of wonderful shops and restaurants make this a first class destination for those wanting to see the very best that Cornwall has to offer.

As you would expect, the good stretches of beach here makes it another popular location for surfers. Porthmeor Beach, on the town’s western edge, is the pick of the bunch being famous for powerful surf and yet is ideal for non-surfers of all ages as well. Watch the surfers ride the waves at Porthmeor Beach – or get in there yourself and give it a go!

Porthminster Beach, on the town’s eastern edge, is more sheltered and has perfect conditions for family groups. Other good beaches in St Ives include Porthgwidden, Porth Kidney Sands and Windasea.

Boats still fill the harbour and Smeaton’s Pier is still the preserve of the town’s fishing community, although fishing no longer dominates the quays.  Watch fishermen bring in their catch which are sold to some of the finest restaurants.

No holiday is complete without good food and here at St Ives there’s a range of excellent restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs catering for all tastes and budget types.  Chill out with a drink or splash out on the culinary delights at one of the top restaurants around the busy harbour, looking out at the fishing boats and clear water, or dine at one of the many restaurants set back from the seafront.

St Ives is a good base for a Cornwall holiday.  This little town offers a large selection of outdoor activities including birdwatching, fishing, golf, sailing and surfing.  From here you can also explore Land’s End, Penzance, St. Michael’s Mount or make trips to the Isles of Scilly.

There are lots of accommodation options to suit the budgets of all holidaymakers ranging from guest houses with fabulous sea views, charming four-star B&B, hotels or touring caravan parks.

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Marazion town

Tucked away in the very far corner of South West Cornwall is the charming little town of Marazion with only 1,500 inhabitants. This ancient market town is believed to be Britain’s oldest chartered town. Aside from being steeped in history, this picturesque town is best known as the location of St Michael’s Mount.

Marazion

Marazion is situated in a prominent position on the shores of Mount’s Bay, which is recognized as one of the top ten most beautiful bays in the world.  The town has an excellent safe sandy beach, and is loved by those interested in outdoor activities like hiking, water sports and bird watching. Twice a year thousands of starlings roost in the RSPB Reserve at Marazion Marsh. The arrival of the birds at dusk is a truly spectacular sight.

A Walk Around Marazion

The Marazion Museum has an informative booklet entitled “A Walk Round Marazion”.  This 3/4 mile walk centres on the oldest part of the town. The walk starts at the impressive Town Hall which was once the Market House, town jail and fire station.  It now houses the Town Museum.

From the Town Hall, the walk takes you past buildings such as the Shambles, or meat market, the Old Police House and the War Memorial which was erected to commemorate the dead from the two world wars.  It then continues around the back of Marazion from where you’ll have a panoramic view of the bay from Cudden to Mousehole.  This walk takes approximately 40 minutes.

Marazion is a good base to explore Cornwall – with plenty of affordable accommodation, shops, pubs and bakeries offering a range of food and drink options. Visitors can experience the true Cornish lifestyle in a comfortable and beautiful setting.

St Michael’s Mount

St Michael's Mount, Marazion

Marazion has a long historic relationship with the island and castle of St Michael’s Mount, one of the most famous Cornish landmarks.

The highlight is the castle which is set atop the mount on a separate island – it’s possible to walk to the St Michael’s Mount during low tide, but at high tide a ferry ride is required. The castle itself is quite enchanting and visitors can amble through the many furnished rooms and enjoy the panoramic views.  The Mount was dedicated to St Michael who, according to legend, appeared here in 495.

Both St Michael’s Mount and Marazion are main attractions of Cornwall.

See more St Michael’s Mount and Marazion photos in Travelsignposts photo gallery HERE.
Map of Marazion and St Michael’s Mount

Traditional scones, jam and clotted cream

It’s true that the Cornish enjoy their food – so much so that Devon and Cornwall are known almost as much for their culinary offerings as their stunning scenery and coasts.

Fine Dining

In recent times, the celebrity chefs have arrived in Devon and Cornwall and so have the foodies and food festivals.  With the abundance of seafood, diary produce, seasonal fruit and vegetables and the creative cooking skills of these famous chefs, dining out in Devon and Cornwall has become very exciting.  Fine dining is now easily available on your Devon and Cornwall holidays.

Traditional Food

Of course traditional foods still play an important part of the sustenance for families on holidays and there’s nothing nicer than a filling Cornish pastie or fresh fish and chips after an exhaustive day of surfing.

Cornish Pastie

The famous Cornish Pastie is just one of the local edible treats available in this charming English county. The Cornish pastie is a tasty puff pastry that’s stuffed with beef steak (or mince), onions, potatoes and seasoned with pepper. It must be tried (assuming you’re not a vegetarian) at least once during your visit to Cornwall.

Famous starters include Kiddly Broth, a soup made with onions, bacon and hard bread as well as nettle soup (yes, it’s made from real nettles).

Fish & Chips is a famous English dish – however, the Cornish use beer to make their batter and it certainly makes for an interesting variation of standard fish and chips.

Star Gazy Pie is a pastry made with pilchards (herring or mackerel can also be used), boiled eggs, bacon, onions and white wine.

Fancy something sweet? Cornish sweets include Cornish Cherry Choclets (a mix of chocolate, syrup, cherries and butter), Cornish Splits (made from sugar, milk, flour and lard) and Figgy ‘obbin (a baked treat consisting of raisins, milk, sugar and flour). And don’t forget the world-famous Devonshire Cream Teas with their delicious scones thickly spread with fresh butter, fruity strawberry jam and topped with thick Devon clotted cream!

Devon cows

As you’d probably expect by now the Cornish also have their own signature drinks. These include Aunt Ellys Nog (a mix of eggs, cream, vanilla, sugar and milk), Cornish Mine Punch (rum, brandy, lemons and sugar) and Cornish Spiced Mead.

Other foods that Cornwall is known for are the rich Cornish fudge and ice cream and Cornish Hevva Cake.

Cows are busy in Devon and they produce an abundance of fat-rich, creamy milk.   Devon is of course famous for its clotted cream, farmhouse cheeses and other dairy products!

A popular Devon specialty is Deep Fried Cheeses with gooseberry sauce.

Scrumpy is a type of cider particular to Devon, made from apples that fall off the trees before ripening, but if something stronger is needed, then try Plymouth Gin.

Daffodil farm

Isles of Scilly (Cornwall)

About 28 miles west of Lands End (Cornwall) are the mysterious and little known islands called the Isles of Scilly. As you might expect, the isles have a very mild climate and are populated with sub-tropical plants.

When you travel anywhere in Cornwall, you’ll be amazed at the abundance of wild flowers that fill hedgerows and cover woodland floors in its beautiful natural display.  However, when you visit the Isles of Scilly, the flower fields here will bowl you over.

Isles of  Scilly Flowers

Cut flowers are the main agricultural product of these isles and Isles of Scilly flowers are famous throughout the UK.  Due to its sub-tropical climate, this area has a long association with traditional narcissi growing and many popular and important varieties are developed here.

Trenoweth Flower Farm is one of the Isles of Scilly flower farms  which has consistently taken out the first prize (sometimes second and third as well) at the West Cornwall spring flower show each year.  The farm is set in a peaceful wooded part of St. Mary’s on the Isles of Scilly with fine views to the sea.   Alongside Narcissi, Trenoweth Farm also grows richly scented Pinks.  If you’re here from April to September/October you’ll see an amazing ocean of pink blooms.  Isle of Scilly flowers are available on-line and they’re delivered by post in the U.K.  Their prices seem very reasonable as well.

The Isles of Scilly are well worth a visit, though be warned that holiday makers are not permitted to bring cars. This means that there is very little traffic here, even in the highest populated region of St Mary’s.  The Isles of Scilly helicopter service provides travellers with a hassle free, efficient transfer from Cornwall and you’ll have the chance to enjoy a scenic flight and an exhilarating first-look aerial view of these stunning islands.

The once populated Samson is an interesting place to call in – now deserted, it has only the remains of ancient cottages.

Teignmouth (Devon)

This is the town that was battered pretty badly during World War II. In the present day, it’s an interesting sea-facing town that has an unusual mix of 19^th century buildings and a fair amount to offer the passing visitor.

The centre of Teignmouth is small enough to reach any part easily on foot. Most of the facilities of interest to holiday makers are concentrated in or around the “den” area (the area of space along the main seafront). It’s here that you’ll find the pier, cinemas, swimming pool and theatre. Events here include an annual jazz festival, regattas and carnivals. For those who love the great outdoors, there’s cycling and walking opportunities as well as a host of water sports including diving and angling.

Shaldon (Devon)

Very close by to Teignmouth, at the mouth of the River Teign estuary, is the unspoilt village of Shaldon. It’s a quiet little place that is peppered with attractive cottages and the views along the estuary are really quite charming. Visitors may want to take a look inside the Shaldon Wildlife Trust.

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