things to do – Rock Cottage

Planning a trip to the Minack Theatre and Porthcurno Beach?

Everyone has seen the stunning photos on Instagram and Facebook, maybe you’ve heard about the Minack Theatre from friends? Maybe you love the theatre and are passionate about the performing arts and need to visit the Minack Theatre? Maybe you’ve seen the jaw dropping photos of the view of the Minack Theatre online and need to see it for yourself? Or maybe you have never heard of the Minack Theatre and are wondering what I’m going on about?! Either way, I can assure you that it is a day well spent.

First things first. What is the Minack Theatre? From a visitors’ perspective, it is a stunning and architecturally pleasing amphitheatre carved precariously out of the cliff in Cornwall near Porthcurno Beach. With a unique position overlooking the sea, you swing from being mesmerised by the performance or the ever changing sea-scape. The Minack Theatre is open air so takes the full brunt of the Cornish weather from blisteringly hot sunny days to gale force winds and hammering rain. The Minack Theatre gets it all.

The winding paths through the botanical gardens at the Minack Theatre

Minack comes from the old Cornish word “meynek” meaning rocky place and it was on this rocky outlook that Rowena Cade started her journey of building the Minack Theatre. You might be forgiven for thinking this was an ancient theatre, the architecture takes influence from ancient Greek structures but you might be surprised to hear that the theatre is less than 100 years old. The Minack Theatre was a labour of love for Rowena Cade and you can learn all about her life and the building of the theatre (a lot by hand) in a special exhibition dedicated to her at the theatre (admission is included with your ticket).

If you are staying at Rock Cottage then you will be based just outside Padstow on the North Coast. Now, whilst the Minack Theatre is not exactly on our doorstep, nothing in Cornwall is that far away from Rock Cottage so plan a whole day out exploring the South West Coast and you’ll discover even more of Cornwall from the ease of Rock Cottage’s great location. Pack up the picnic (cooler bag, tupperware & plates are in the Cottage to borrow) or why not seek refreshment in the cafe at the Minack Theatre?

Explore the many pathways around the theatre to make the most of the unique cliff top location

On arrival to the Minack Theatre take care driving up the winding lanes before parking comfortably in the large field car park. There will be attendants to show you the best spot to park your car. The theatre welcomes dogs on a lead but please bear in mind there are a lot of steps so it might not be suitable for very small dogs (you could carry them?) or elderly/infirm dogs.

Tickets for various performances are available online but I’m not going to go into details about what to expect in this article. I want to concentrate on a day trip to see the sights of the Theatre and basically have a wander around. Full information on upcoming performances and tickets can be found online at the Minack Theatre website.

To visit the gardens and theatre, tickets can be purchased online or you can pay on the day. It can get busy during the Summer so I would strongly suggest booking in advance especially if travelling from Rock Cottage (I wouldn’t want you to be disappointed if they are at full capacity). A ticket to visit the garden and explore the theatre is just £8 per adult (parking is free) which I think represents excellent value for a good long morning or afternoon out. Your visit will probably take around 2 to 3 hours, or if you are in a rush – around 1 hour. I strongly recommend taking your time and savouring the unique position and outlook from the theatre.

As you enter the theatre you will first be greeted by a panoramic view over the whole of the site towards Porthcurno Beach and a great viewing platform. You’ll find handy little photo spots all over the theatre and you won’t be disappointed with the view!

The view of Porthcurno Beach can’t be beaten from the Minack Theatre. Look at how turquoise the sea is!

The winding path leads from the car park through the beautiful botanical gardens towards the amphitheatre itself. The planting scheme is stunning and colourful. The gardens extend to 1.5 acres and a subtropical paradise. The Minack Theatre describes their gardens as a “living art” and even the most ardent gardeners will be impressed. A selection of their plants raised from seed are available to purchase at the entrance – maybe take a little piece of Cornwall home with you!

At the top of the site you will find an adorable little cafe serving a variety of refreshments, the views from the large glass windows are incredible. Seating indoors is limited but there is plenty of capacity to enjoy a bite to eat as a takeaway sat in the theatre. At this level you will also find the Rowena Cade exhibition and public conveniences.

Carry on down into the main theatre. I don’t want to give too much away but you’ll explore the tiered seating carved from stone, the stages, and of course the view (did I mention the view enough yet?!).

The seating is a mixture of grass and stone benches – look out for the seats with the carved names of the performances from over the years.

In all, a fabulous outing. I’d suggest choosing another attraction to make the drive worth it from Rock Cottage. We tied a visit the Minack Theatre in with an afternoon at Porthcurno Beach. Literally a perfect day.

To book your stay at Rock Cottage (sleeps 4) then please check out our availability page or contact us by email

Have a fab holiday,

Charlotte.

We’re going to the Zoo – do you wanna come too?

If you are looking for something to do then I heartily recommend a day at Newquay Zoo. Just a short 25 minute drive with lots of parking on arrival (pay &display) it is easy to get to. Booking online is required at the moment and tickets and timeslots can be booked at www.newquayzoo.org.uk

Don’t let the rain put you off – we had the pleasure of visiting the zoo in the rain just yesterday and with plenty of shelter spots and so much to see we barely noticed the rain. I thought the rain might mean the animals would be hiding in their enclosures but if anything they were more lively than ever. So don’t be put off!

You might think that zoos are only for families for children but think again. The gardens and grounds at Newquay Zoo are beautifully kept and absolutely stunning to walk through. I was particularly mesmerised by the Japanese Garden next to the Otters. Such lovely planting and so immaculate. Very inspiring.

We spent a long morning at the Zoo from around 10am to 2pm, but we could have spent longer! The penguins were very entertaining. One little penguin reluctant to get into the water, he kept waddling around the edge trying to get in or find the best spot to get in, and eventually dived in triumphantly from the side! I could have watched them all day. Lots of different penguin personalities. They are surprisingly fast in the water too!

If you get a chance then do give the cafe a try (saves on packing a picnic too!). We only stopped for a coffee and a doughnut but the menu looked good and reasonably priced too. I was very pleased to see they recommended the Cream Tea served #jamfirst! The doughnut I had looked like a zebra and was thoroughly coated in coated – delicious. It’s also good to know that the Zoo promotes recycling and our cups (& lids) were not made from single use plastic! Hurrah! Guilt free consuming all around.

Dotted around the Zoo gardens are lots of play areas for children, plenty to keep them busy including a main play park, an assault course and a long slide.

The Zoo has a huge variety of animals, from lions & zebras, to reptiles, a farm area, penguins, parrots & exotic birds, peacocks, tortoises, armidillos and monkeys.

I don’t want to give away too much because really you need to explore it all yourself.

Have a lovely day out at the Zoo and let me know what your favourite animal was! (mine was the red panda!)

Maybe you’ll meet one of the friendly peacocks?

Don’t forget to book online before you go!

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What to do when it’s raining in lockdown?

This post is inspired by our current guests who just experienced the first bout of rain this season. Although much needed, and our local farmers & gardeners will be happy, it does pose a rather tricky problem of “what to do?” when it’s wet. The following are some ideas to keep you busy but please note the dates as some are only open from 17th May. We are confident that you’ll have a fabulous holiday in Padstow no matter what the Cornish weather brings!

Shopping

Since 12th April the local “non-essential” retail shops have opened which is a lovely way to while away some time in Padstow. There is such a choice of independent retailers in the town and locally, that a day can easily be spent making the most of those shopping opportunities.

I can never resist a look in Coastal Scandi (they have a shop in Padstow & Wadebridge). I just love their Tom Raffield lighting range (have you spotted any in Rock Cottage?). They have the biggest collection of Chilly drinks bottles i’ve ever seen and lots of beautiful scandi gifts. They also sell the very cosy Atlantic Blanket range.

If you have a four-legged friend with you then you cannot miss a trip to Slickers Doghouse – the luxury doggy boutique right by the harbour. You can pamper your pooch with a huge supply of dog accessories & of course, dogs are welcome in the shop.

I thoroughly recommend a wander around the numerous art galleries. You might be interested to know that nearly all the art in Rock Cottage is made by Cornish Artists. The Whistlefish gallery and shop has a lot of local prints, and Cornish themed gifts, they also sell some lovely greeting cards. Do also take a look at The Padstow Gallery on Landwell Street which has some beautiful items including stunning panoramic canvas and pottery. The Picture House Gallery has some unique items including fused glass. You never know you might find the perfect piece of Cornwall to take home with you.

There are several shops in the town selling fudge. Roly Poly Fudge makes the fudge on site and you can watch from the window or inside the shop. The lovely Buttermilk Fudge Shop is made in Padstow and sells some very yummy pre-packed fudge, or you can buy it loose from the counter. There is a huge choice of flavours – we tried the gin flavour recently and it was very nice! The children love to pick their own.

Food glorious food!

You will be spoilt for choice in Padstow with some of the finest eateries in the country right here. My biggest tip for this summer is BOOK AHEAD! Check out the restaurants you want to go to, look at their social media and book online. Have a look at their outdoor seating areas. Obviously if it is tipping it down with rain (which is why you are reading this!) then a simple table outside isn’t going to cut it. Lots of venues have installed marquees or gazebos so you can still comfortably dine out until 17th May when inside dining opens. Take a look at The Mussel Box right in the centre of town, serving a delicious range of casual food (not just mussels!) and it is perfectly set up for covid-safe dining in a covered marquee/glass box which is well ventilated.

Nearly all the restaurants are offering takeaway so why not pick up something delicious and take it back to Rock Cottage to enjoy in the dining room? You don’t have to cook on holiday if you don’t want to! Rafferty’s in St Merryn is offering a great take-out selection – have a look at their menu on Facebook.

The Pickwick Inn is a gentle stroll direct from the door of Rock Cottage and serves a great locally sourced menu and is currently open (do check their social media for day-to-day opening information). Unfortunately our other local pub, The Ring O’Bells is currently shut but fingers crossed for opening again after 17th May.

Attractions

The Tide Climbing Centre is open! Why not have a go at indoor climbing? With lots of challenges to suit everyone from new climbers to the experiences, get out of the rain and have a go! It’s also suitable for children so ideal if the kids are getting restless. The Centre is only a couple of miles from Rock Cottage but please make sure you book online before arriving.

Why not put on your coats are cycle the Camel Trail? Ok, you do have to get wet but it could still be a lot of fun (and probably less busy). There are multiple bicycle hire shops at both Padstow & Wadebridge so why not take the plunge?

Fancy an indoor swim? Wadebridge Leisure Centre is open (booking required 5 days in advance for non-members). Or if you would like to experience pure luxury, non-residents are able to book a 4 hour slot at the new £10million aqua centre at The Headland Hotel in Newquay. Booking in advance is required (from £30 per adult). Why not enjoy a meal afterwards at the Deck restaurant? (also indoors!)

The National Lobster Hatchery is a great way to spend some time when its raining, learn all about conservation, the ocean and meet the baby lobsters. Dogs are welcome indoors on a lead. The Lobster Hatchery is open from 17th May and no booking is required (an admission fee on the door applies). You’ll find the Hatchery in the large warehouse right on the key near Stein’s Fish & Chips in Padstow.

Home sweet holiday home

And if all else fails and it’s pouring with rain, why not stay at home. You’ll find a high quality smart TV ready for you to connect your own netflix/prime/disney+ accounts or just watch the multiple channels on freeview. Have a cosy film afternoon, get the pop corn in, put the log burner on and grab one of the cosy blankets from the basket and relax. We also have a small selection of children’s games and a set of playing cards & an adult board game (this rotates but something like monopoly). Games night!

Wine on the terrace? Yes please!

Such exciting news that non-essential retail can open from 12th April. Just one week away! It’s quite incredible that locally produced Cornish wine at Camel Valley Vineyard is considered “non-essential” but anyway……

Located near Bodmin and just a short detour from the Camel Trail cycle and walking route, you will find the peaceful and utterly delightful Camel Valley Vineyard. The vineyard has been family run since 1989 and produces world class, award winning wines.

Camel Valley have won awards for their English sparkling wine which is sold nationally in Waitrose, and in London at Fortnum’s and even overseas to Japan. Many people have enjoyed a glass of their fine sparkling wine, at say the Tate in London, and then felt compelled to come and see where the wine was made and really explore the wine making process.

The vineyard is open year round Monday to Friday including bank holidays for tours, wine tastings and most popular of all, their beautiful terrace where you can enjoy wine by the glass. Please note they are closed at the weekends and only allow guide dogs.

If you would like to explore the Camel Valley Vineyard then remember to book in advance. I strongly suggest keeping an eye on their Social Media as updates on their opening and booking procedures are regularly posted. At the time of writing, bookings are being taken from a Tuesday for the following week, on a week by week basis.

Camel Valley Vineyard Facebook Page