Wild Lizard Guide 2023

MEETS SEA

A world of adventure, experience and creativity awaits on the most southerly peninsula of the British mainland

ART ON THE LIZARD MARINE EDUCATION WATER ADVENTURES

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Welcome

From the Editor to the 2023 edition of Wild Lizard!

The Lizard peninsula holds a very dear place in my heart. I was lucky enough to grow up there, spending long summers exploring its many beaches. Weekend walks would be along the cliff paths towards Kynance and its enchanting cove, from Coverack to the hidden bay at Lankidden or a foray down to Cadgwith to watch the boats land their catch. Much of the editorial content of previous editions of Wild Lizard was curated by the input of a fellow Lizard-phile, Sandy Pulfrey. Sandy sadly passed away last year and so in tribute, I have endeavoured to bring you my own flavour of the Lizard

The peninsula is the most southerly in mainland Britain and its unique micro-climate means it is home to a plethora of flora and fauna. We take a look at the Lizard's clifftop and countryside inhabitants in more detail from page 15, with the help of Natural Lizard and the National Trust, whose stewardship of much of the coastal areas on the Lizard preserves them for generations to come.

Growing up on the coast, we were always taught to have a healthy respect for the sea and as a child, one of my favourite days out was a visit to the the RNLI Lizard Lifeboat Station. Marvelling at the magnificent lifeboat and reading of historic rescues still makes my fingers tingle and I was lucky enough to interview its current coxswain, Daniel Atkinson which you can read on page 25

Another place that I feel exemplifies the wild nature of the Lizard is the Terence Coventry Sculpture Park. The renowned and revered sculptor started out as a farmer on the fields above Coverack before turning his attention to the arts. This hidden bucolic paradise hosts incredible sculptures, almost industrial in their appearance, amongst its meadows which overlook the ocean; read more from page 28. Another unique sculpture keeps watch over Porthleven's harbour. Waiting For Fish, or 'Dave and Bird' as it is more colloquially known, was inspired by a Cadgwith resident and created by Holly Bendall; discover the story from page 48

Art abounds across the Lizard. Less talked about than its more famous neighbours of Newlyn and St Ives, it is nonetheless a haven for creative talent, an example of which just happens to be my old physics teacher! Abstract landscape artist, Martin Grimshaw (from page 33) now spends his time in front of a canvas rather than a whiteboard, inspired by the Lizard's unique landscape.

Finally, we hear from Dive Project Cornwall (page 50) which, from its base at Polkerris, will play host to hundreds of lucky teenagers this summer as they experience a six-day, life-changing trip to Cornwall where they will learn to scuba dive, enjoy outdoor adventures, take up beach-related activities and attend presentations from leading marine industry experts.

...happy reading!

Hannah

BUS SERVICES ON THE LIZARD

GO CORNWALL BUS: 36 (St Keverne to Helston, via Coverack, Goonhilly, Mawgan and Culdrose)

L1 (Lizard village to Helston, via Ruan Minor, Kugger, Mullion, Poldhu, Cury, Gunwalloe and Culdrose)

www.transportforcornwall.co.uk

OTS: 33 (St Keverne to Helston, via Porthallow, Gillan, Manaccan, Helford, St Martin and Gunwalloe)

www.otsfalmouth.co.uk

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Keep in the loop at www.cornwall-living.co.uk

Success for Wasabi the wonder pup!

Step through the doors of the Cornish Seal Sanctuary this spring, and you’ll see the animal care team in full swing as they come to the end of another another busy grey seal pup season.

Over winter, numerous young pups come through their doors, and the team are thankful to be able to help 98% of them make it back out to the wild with their rescue, rehabilitation and release programme.

One of this season’s success stories includes a special pup called Wasabi; a youngster who came to the Sanctuary at just 17kg and suffering from a very infected rear flipper (as well as other flipper wounds and a loose nail). The team jumped into action, providing around-the-clock care to treat his wounds, supported with a course of antibiotics.

But when the antibiotics didn’t work, Wasabi had to go into surgery and have his rear flipper amputated. After weeks of recovery to ensure he could cope with his new disability, he made incredible progress and the team were able to release him successfully back into the wild! He’s now back where he belongs, while his space at the Sanctuary is taken by another pup in need.

It’s only thanks to their visitors and supporters that they can help pups like Wasabi – as well as the residents who live in their care full-time. With around 50-70 pups making it through their doors every year, find the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek, near Helston, for a day out that makes a difference.

For more information call 01326 221361 or visit www.sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.com

Capturing the Cornish coastline

From the turquoise waters of Kynance Cove, to the colourful fishing boats of Cadgwith and Coverack, the Lizard Peninsula is so vibrant, it can’t fail to inspire. Artist, Chloe Woods works in an exciting range of mediums to capture that energy on canvas in a way that would look great in any contemporary interior.

Passionate about art, and with a background in interior design, Chloe is happy to offer framing

Bringing an ancient technique to the fore

Hand-carving each tile using an ancient inlay technique, Mel Chambers of Alchemy Tiles has built a reputation for a creative quality of the highest order. With a string of awards to her name, including the SME Southern Enterprise Award for ‘Best Hand-Crafted Tile Company’ for a third year in a row in 2022, as well as becoming the ‘Made in Cornwall’ Member of the Year last year, Mel has been a hands-on part of the Made in Cornwall scheme for the last six years, and after rigorous testing by Trading Standards, received top marks for her work, being awarded gold standard of an authentically Cornish product. Naturally, Mel has attracted a multitude of customers looking to incorporate her incredible works of art into their homes, whether that be in the form of a stunning splashback, an installation, or a single tile to celebrate something special, each held eternal in earth and time.

For more information call 07768 193848 or visit www.alchemytiles.com

and hanging advice to ensure your keepsake of Cornwall hangs perfectly in your home. You can see Chloe and her latest work at Coast Colour Canvas Gallery near Roskillys from 10th to 16th June and from 5th to 11th August, and for regular art and interiors inspiration you can sign up to her newsletter.

For more information call 07803 724297 or visit www.chloewoods.co.uk

Feast in the sunshine at CAST Café

Based in the heart of Helston in the CAST building on Penrose Road, CAST Café boasts a stunning sun terrace, ideal for soaking up the Cornish summers, and what’s more is fully licensed, offering a selection of organic wines, beers and ciders. Open five days a week, the regularly changing menu is comprised of seasonal, locallysourced produce cooked in a distinct and flavourful way. In addition to the café’s regular opening hours, make sure to look out for details of the café’s monthly feast night offerings, as well as cultural events organised by CAST including screenings, workshops and

more. Access to the building is on Penrose Road or via the back of the car park on Wendron Street. For more information call 01326 569267 or visit www.castcafe.uk

There’s

plenty on offer at Tregullas Farm

A haven of local Cornish produce, Tregullas Farm proudly boasts a healthy herd of beef cattle and sheep, and remains the most southerly farm in the UK to do so. Through regenerative and extensive farming, the team have built a reputation for the quality of their produce, taking pride in their process, having bred a ewe over the years to suit the Lizard climate and thrive on nothing but Cornish grass all year round.

Alongside quality meat, the popular Tregullas Farm shop is home to an array of local produce, from vegetables and meat to the daily newspaper! What’s more, the traditional tea room invites you in with the promise of homemade cream teas and cakes; how could you resist? With events

lined up across the summer, including Open Farm Sunday on 18th June, there’s plenty of fun for all the family, and this year the farm’s 100% woollen hats from their own sheep are up for grabs, as well as wool to knit your own!

For more information call 01326 290122 or visit www.tregullasfarm.co.uk

Making the most of a pub classic

The Lemon Arms is a family friendly pub in the heart of Mylor Bridge, on the edge of the river Fal. Serving a tempting selection of awarding winning St Austell real ales as well offering a wide variety of quality wines, spirits, beers, coffee, teas and soft drinks. With a menu of popular pub classics served alongside a daily selection of seasonal specials, all of the food at The Lemon Arms is sourced locally where possible and is freshly prepared and cooked by a team of fantastic chefs.

Stay in a Lighthouse cottage on Lizard Point

Located on the Southern-most tip of mainland Britain, The Lizard in Cornwall is the perfect choice when it comes to choosing a holiday destination here in the UK, and there’s no better place to stay than in a lighthouse cottage.

Managed by Cornwall Hideaways, the six cottages of Lizard Lighthouse present guests with dazzling scenery and coastal walks right on the doorstep – book your stay today!

cornwallhideaways.co.uk

01872 888 631

Family and dog friendly, with a water bowl, dog treats, high chairs and a kids menu available, everyone is welcome, and the newly refurbished outside seating area and beer garden means there’s room for all. Bookings are advised at busy periods and parties and events can also be catered for. For further information or bookings, make sure to get in touch with the team!

For more information call 01326 373666 or visit www.lemonarms.co.uk

Bishop Rock Lizard Point

THE LIZARD PENINSULA Discover

Award-winning property agents

As the most southerly area of the British mainland, the Lizard Peninsula offers up some unique experiences that make it a very desirable place, not just to visit, but to lay down some roots too.

Firstly, framing this ancient landscape are a number of wonderful beaches. Starting on the west side there’s Loe Bar, a tract of sand that separates the sea from the largest expanse of fresh water in Cornwall, reputedly the last resting place of Excalibur! Definitely a place to visit with a picnic on a summer’s day. Working round you’ll encounter Dollar Cove (a favourite location for the recent TV series Poldark) and Gunwalloe Church Cove –ideal for swimming and body boarding or just kicking back and sunbathing. Not far after this is Poldhu, the ‘surfer’s beach’, complete

with sand-side café. However, the jewel in the peninsula’s crown must be Kynance Cove, dubbed Britain's best beach by many, and it's not hard to understand why. A beach which is accessible at both low and high water, Kennack Sands lies on the east coast of the Lizard Peninsula. There is a rocky outcrop that splits the beach almost in two (east and west) and low tide provides ample room for those classic beach games.

As you would expect, from a piece of land surrounded on three sides by the sea, there are plenty of opportunities to engage in water sports – from traditional surfing to paddle boarding as well as in-shore diving and canoeing. You can bring your own kit but all of these activities are well catered for by locally run businesses.

Unsurprisingly, it is also a treasure trove of places and activities. With its hard rocky coastline combined with its proximity to the entrance to the English Channel, the peninsula is an explorer's and walker's paradise. Stepping back from the more obvious destinations you'll find the lesser known 'best kept secrets' – places such as Gillan Cove, concealed just inside the mouth of the Gillan Creek and backed by the woodland of the Helford;

a place to visit with a picnic on a summer’s the

Rohrs & Rowe offer their take on the appeal of the Lizard Peninsula.

Tremayne Quay, built by Sir Richard Vyvyan in 1847, anticipating a visit from Queen Victoria. The planned visit never happened but the quay is now a Grade II listed structure. The sheltered coastal village of Porthallow, once a busy fishing village with a thriving pilchard fleet, is well worth a visit as is the local pub, the Five Pilchards! Just north of here is Nare Point, the site of an ex-MOD observatory, where panoramic views encompass St Mawes castle across the bay. Two places that you will find yourself going back to, time and again, are St Anthony and Cadgwith, the latter for its charm and the fact that it's a real working village that maintains a way of life almost completely forgotten elsewhere.

After all these activities you’ll need to replenish and refuel, and you won’t find the area wanting. The Mullion Cove Hotel welcomes diners with its extensive fish and seafood menus and has regularly received two rosettes from the AA for its exceptional food. Just along the coast is Polurrian on the Lizard. This hotel has a contemporary vibe, catering for those seeking a relaxed, child-friendly environment. Further round the coast is the Housel Bay Hotel mainlining on locally grown produce with its menus inspired by the seasons. And of course, there are traditional pubs and cafés dotted about the landscape, such as the Halzephron Inn at Gunwalloe, the inland bistro and wild campsite Fat Apples Café near Porthallow, or the Shipwrights, nudging the shoreline of the Helford River.

With their in-depth knowledge of the area, Rohrs & Rowe are in the ideal position to find your dream property here or to help you sell. In fact, their negotiator, Jason Fletcher, spent twelve years living on the Lizard and now resides at its gateway in Helston. The team at Rohrs & Rowe have a lot of experience selling in the area with some fantastic successes over the last couple of years. As testimony, we can highlight four properties that they have recently completed on.

The Barn in Manaccan, sold in early 2023, is a charming detached residence that sits within a beautiful private setting. This exceptional house has been built in the style of a barn and its design provides spacious accommodation.

One of its unique features is a garden labyrinth! Also sold in early 2023 is Colvennor Farmhouse that offers up views across Mounts Bay. This former farmhouse has huge charm and many original features to enjoy. The drawing room is really lovely, featuring an impressive inglenook fireplace and views into the private rear garden. Two properties that sold back in 2021 are Tredower – an immaculately finished, non-listed four-bedroom former farmhouse which had recently been meticulously renovated throughout, and Penmarth House in Coverack – a fabulous residence set in a commanding position that affords it the most outstanding panoramic views across the harbour and bay.

Finally, if you find yourself ready to make the move then there are two properties that are waiting to be snapped up. Pengarrock Farm – a gorgeous former farmhouse in a stunning location, with a courtyard of beautiful stone barns provides three attractive holiday cottages. The property is unlisted and consists of a handsome farmhouse and an unspoilt courtyard of stone barns. All are set within delightful gardens and grounds just a short walk from the coast and the pretty hamlet of Porthallow. Alma House – a superbly renovated and impeccably presented four/ five-bedroom semi-detached house, set in the heart of Mullion. It has been extensively updated with the current owners creating a very special primary residence, investment property or holiday home that offers stylish and comfortable accommodation throughout.

So, if you are looking to buy a home on the Lizard, we would highly recommend a visit. Or, if you have a home here and are considering selling, be sure to get in touch to see how Rohrs & Rowe’s expert local knowledge can help.

ROHRS & ROWE

01872 306360

info@rohrsandrowe.co.uk www.rohrsandrowe.co.uk

Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk

fauna

The Lizard Peninsula, on the south-east coast of Cornwall, is one of the most botanically biodiverse areas in the United Kingdom, perfect for spotting the remarkable selection of flora and fauna that grace this coastline. Its diversity comes from the unique geology that makes up this stretch of land; a combination of serpentine base rock, which in its nature is metamorphic and alkaline. Serpentine itself is a very rare rock nationwide, with small exposures to be found in Anglesey, Aberdeenshire and Shetland. With the largest collection found right here in the Lizard, combined with the presence of neutral to acid heathland, and a spotting of igneous rock lying beneath rich fertile pasture. Now, that sounds like quite the geography lesson. To simplify, this rare combination of rock and soil comes together to bring life to a wide variety of flora that perhaps wouldn’t be able to grow elsewhere.

It isn’t just the geology that provides a nutritious bed for plants to grow. The Lizard is internationally known for its temporary ponds. These ponds, that are full to the brim in autumn and winter, before drying out in spring, play host to some unlikely residents. Rare annuals bloom here, which include the three-lobed crowfoot. This annual bloomer opens its leaves in winter across the ponds and flooded trackways, followed by its tiny star-like flowers that bloom in early spring. You can also find the yellow centaury, flowering its tiny petals in the sunshine.

Plant lovers descend on this remarkable landscape year-round, and for good reason. Here you can also find the rare Cornish heath, western clover, pigmy rush, and land quillwort. This impressive roster of plant life is also down to the climate here in the Lizard. Located at such a southerly position, it holds the highest mean temperature in Britain, which is quite the feat. Whilst the summers here are not the warmest on record, the winters are

 TOP Pigmy rush

Hans Hillewaert.

 BELOW Cicendia filiformis

©National Trust Images/John Miller

©National Trust Images/John Miller

©National Trust Images/Ross Hoddinott

strangely mild, compared to its neighbours. For the flora that call this place home, this means a cruel winter frost is almost nonexistent, and the growing season delightfully long. Six degrees centigrade is known as the required active growing temperature for plant life. The Lizard rises above this every single day; remarkable!

It’s not just flora that draws visitors to this countryside, but the fauna too. Birdwatching is of course the number one activity for nature lovers throughout the year, especially in the warmer months. The Lizard is home to many species, from the iconic red-billed chough, to the skylarks. The rare habitat that many birdlife call home is thanks to the proximity to the European mainland, with the sea on three sides, and the Helford River just north. This allows birdwatchers to catch sight of birds on their migratory routes during the shoulder months, as well as spotting birds that call this place home for a little longer.

The Lizard is said by many to be one of the last remaining areas of coast and countryside that is raw, wild and unspoilt. Thanks to its isolated location from the rest of mainland Britain, wildlife can make a home here that is relatively undisturbed. This peaceful haven is largely down to a high percentage of the land being designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), as well as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), creating the perfect habitat for a diverse range of fauna throughout the year.

 ABOVE A Cornish chough in full flight

 BELOW Volunteers show visitors the local wildlife from the watchpoint at Lizard Point

In summer, the Lizard welcomes the arrival of wheatears, whitethroats, sedge warblers, sand martins and more! Firecrests and redstarts begin arriving in early Spring, soon followed by the chiffchaff, shorteared owls and spotted flycatcher. As mentioned, the Lizard is a haven for spotting passage migrants. These can include common scouters and puffins, with their passage peaking in mid-June to the end of July.

In summer, the Lizard welcomes the arrival

Mike Prince CC-BY-SA 2.0

©National Trust Images/Hugh Mothersole

©National Trust Images/Clive Whitbourn

©National Trust Images/John Millar ©National Trust Images/Hilary Daniel

If birdwatching is not your thing, then you’re in luck. This coastline is also abundant in insects and other invertebrates that are vital to the ecosystem here. The Lizard is a stronghold for the endangered marsh fritillary, a butterfly of the family Nymphalidae. In spring and summer, the fields and streams across this countryside are brimming with this species, as well as moths, bees, hoverflies and dragonflies. All making the most of their florally abundant homelands.

Larger inhabitants that reside here are adders and lizards that live in the heathland, while frogs, toads and newts enjoy the rivers, streams and ponds that can be found all over. If this wasn’t enough, then how about the wanderings of roe deer and otters? There are miles of untamed meadowlands where these beautiful mammals roam, so with a little exploration and a dash of patience, you may have a lucky sighting.

Out to sea, past the rugged coastal paths and winding pathways, with a weathered eye on the horizon, you can spot bottlenose dolphins, basking sharks and Atlantic seals. There are several places across the Lizard where you will find significant habitats for a number of these rare native plants and wildlife species. Kynance is part of the The Lizard National Nature Reserve (NNR), and the protection of this special landscape, including its on-going conservation and management, is managed by Natural Lizard and the National Trust, with input from other wildlife and conservation bodies. Shaped by the Lizard’s complex geology and climate, Kynance’s clifftops, heathland, rock pools, streams and scrub support a wealth of wildlife in all seasons.

Further up the coast, Poldhu clifftops and walls are awash with colour in spring; from the pink of thrift and the yellow of kidney vetch to the white of bladder campion. Moving down to sea level, the foredune is dominated by clumps of marram grass, essential for the stabilisation of the sand. Here you’ll also find more colourful plants such as the yellow-flowered sea mayweed and sea bindweed, with its fleshy leaves and

 ABOVE

A male marsh fritillary

©National Trust Images / Susan Guy ©National Trust Images/Matthew Oates

pink flowers trailing over the sand. Cast your eyes skyward and you’ll be rewarded with reed and sedge warbler as well as the rarer Cetti’s warbler. In summer, sand martins nest in Poldhu’s sandstone cliffs and on late afternoons in winter, murmurations of starlings pepper the sky.

Kennack Sands is famous for its rockpools, marine communities, sand dunes and streams. Its rockpools are endless, and on closer inspection you can expect to find sea anemones and blennies galore. In the seaweed beds spiny starfish or the common brittle star may reveal themselves, while broad-clawed, long-clawed porcelain, hairy or hermit Crabs can all be found if you take the trouble to look under the rocks.

Of course, no discussion of wildlife on the Lizard can be without a mention of Cornwall’s symbolic bird, the chough. At Lizard Point, along with sights of seals, Cornish choughs perform dramatic aerial displays with a backdrop of this rugged landscape rich in history of lifeboats and shipwrecks.

These rich, wild and extraordinary spaces that are home to such incredible flora and fauna would not be possible without the

work from Natural Lizard. Natural Lizard is a collaboration between the National Trust, Natural England, NFU, RSPB, Wildlife Trust and Cornwall AONB, who work collectively across the Lizard for nature, climate, people and cultural heritage. Natural Lizard are working hard to provide good access for visitors to explore safely and respectfully, improving the sustainability of their land management, supporting sustainable farming and horticulture, and helping to reverse climate change while adapting to its many changes, a challenge that they tackle head on, thanks to their love for the Lizard. The rangers that patrol these lands, protect its wildlife and encourage flora diversity are passionate about maintaining the Lizard Peninsula in all its glory.

THE LIZARD

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

www.naturallizard.co.uk

Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk

ABOVE  Heathland at Kynance

Nilfanion CC-BY-SA 4.0 National Trust

BELOW  Rock samphire growing at Gunwalloe

 ABOVE Kennack Sands

 BELOW Dunes at Poldhu

©National Trust Images

TIME TO enjoy

With summer upon us, we all want to spend more time outdoors. Yet for many people, the onerous task of keeping the garden tidy, maintaining lawns and fences can be all too time consuming, detracting from the joy that is just being able to sit outside. We can’t wash your patio or trim your hedges (and we definitely can’t clean your BBQ!) but we can recommend ColourFence, a product that has been designed to remove one of the chores from getting your garden summer ready.

With a ColourFence, one of the most tedious, time-consuming jobs – painting your fence – disappears overnight. And that’s not just for this year, but for the next 25 years! That’s because there’s no need to paint or repair a ColourFence. It’s guaranteed not to warp, crack, shrink, rot or peel for a quarter of a century, making it one of the world's best maintenance-free fences. Did you know that Cornwall is one of the windiest counties in the country? Luckily, and of particular appeal to those living in exposed coastal and hilly areas, ColourFence can also withstand wind speeds of up to 130mph.

We hear from Owner, Olly who has installed more than 1300 fences covering the length and breadth of the Duchy: “We’ve installed

all over the county and the feedback we get from customers is amazing, but not totally surprising. In the space of a day, we can remove an old wooden fence and install a new ColourFence, leaving your garden transformed – it really is a garden makeover in a day!

Testament to the great service you’ll receive from ColourFence is this review from Mr M of Truro: “I wish to thank Olly and Callum for a very good, quick and clean job with a very helpful approach. Their hard work is much appreciated and the fence is looking lovely in the sun light today! Thanks again, nice work chaps!” A ColourFence is not only practical, it looks good too. With a choice of different styles, decorative touches and colours, the options are endless. So, whether it’s weathering storms or hiding from heatwaves, get your garden set up and summer-ready so you can sit back, relax and enjoy.

COLOURFENCE CORNWALL

11 Pentire Road, Newquay TR7 1NX 01637 222578

www.colourfence.co.uk/cornwall

Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk

With the arrival of spring and summer just around corner, now’s the time to replace your fences with a maintenance-free alternative.

A gardener’s

PARADISE

Now heading towards five decades of operation, Trevena Cross is an independent, family-owned, one-stop shop for all your gardening needs, with a determination that the plants remain the stars of the show.

Putting plants first stems from the team’s position as growers of more than 90% of all their own plant stocks, which is nurtured on-site in their large 35-acre nursery. The garden centre area is merely the tip of the iceberg – it’s this incredible nursery adjacent to the garden centre that is the backbone of the business, consistently supplying robust, healthy plants.

Growing so much of what they sell means the team at Trevena have the experience and expertise to shape their offering and tailor it to a wide variety of customer needs, and so naturally the business has developed a very loyal customer following over its many decades of operation.

Trevena Cross doesn’t stop at the basics when it comes to plants either; in addition to the diverse range of shrubs, perennials, hedging, and seasonal colour, it also delivers on a range of rare and unusual plants, often appealing to specialist plant enthusiasts and those with a budget to make big transformative changes in their garden landscape.

Many of these plants have earned a special place at Trevena Cross, like the South African

Restios, first introduced to the UK by Trevena Cross several decades ago. Nothing has helped give the garden centre its subtropical association more than its superb collection of large specimen palm trees, olives, citrus, bay and other showstoppers. New stocks of large specimens land on Trevena Cross soil only once or twice per year, and each is one of a kind.

The good news is, whether you’re a visitor to the county or based more locally, a piece of Trevena Cross can also be delivered to your doorstep with the centre’s local and national delivery service. Add to the mix a jungle of houseplants, animal hunt fun for the children, and a comprehensive menu of delicious options at the on-site Garden Kitchen Café, and you really run out of excuses not to be drawn off the A394 and through the gates of this gardener’s paradise.

TREVENA CROSS

Breage, Helston TR13 9ND 01736 763880

TrevenaCross trevenacross sales@trevenacross.co.uk www.trevenacross.co.uk

Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk

Situated in the Cornish village of Breage, Trevena Cross is home to an incredible collection of plants, and a wealth of knowledge about them!

 ABOVE Griselinia hedging in the nursery

SAVE LIVESLaunching to

We talk to Daniel Atkinson, the current coxswain of the Lizard RNLI lifeboat, to discover more about the part he plays in keeping the Cornish coast safe.

Afleet of over 400 RNLI lifeboats across the UK and Ireland are poised to answer one of the thousands of rescues they receive each year. Relying on donations and funding, the RNLI provides an essential service around the coast of Cornwall. The Lizard RNLI lifeboat station at Kilcobben Cove sits an impressive 45 meters above the water. Its steep ramp is where Rose, the station’s Tamar class allweather lifeboat launches on each rescue, braving the ocean and the elements to save lives at sea.

Can you tell us about your background and how you become involved in the RNLI?

I began as an RNLI volunteer in Fowey. I was training to be a plumber at the time. I had no experience of boats at the time but wanted to give something back to the community.

What was your first role on the lifeboat and how did you progress?

I started as a volunteer on the inshore lifeboat before becoming a crew member on the allweather lifeboat. I then trained to become a mechanic before taking up my first full-time position in Humber where I spent seven years in this very unique location. I joined the Lizard lifeboat as mechanic in 2009, becoming coxswain in 2020. There is a lot of specialist training involved, some of which is undertaken at the RNLI’s purpose-built college at Poole.

How many crew members are there at the Lizard and what are their roles?

There are two full-time members, myself and mechanic Ed, 24 boat crew and ten shore crew. A number of our crew are trained as emergency medical technicians and we also have a doctor, Dr Christopher Cuff who volunteers in an advisory role.

Can you talk us through what is involved in a ’shout’?

The coastguard will contact the lifeboat station’s Deputy Launch Authority (DLA). If a launch is agreed, the coastguard will then page

everything – work, family, friends – to run to the rescue and I will then pick the crew of seven depending on the type of rescue involved. We can launch at all tides, and most weathers.

What does working for the RNLI mean to you?

It is a fantastic organisation, and my colleagues have become an extension of my own family. You can volunteer for the RNLI in many different ways, not just as boat crew; without the shore crew we couldn’t launch and recover, similarly with fundraising or helping at the visitor centre. Every role is vital.

What advice would you give for residents and visitors when it comes to staying safe around our shores?

If it looks rough, it is rough and the sea doesn’t take any prisoners. Ask for local advice if you’re unsure or visit the RNLI website for advice and survival techniques.

RNLI

www.rnli.org

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 ABOVE Daniel (left) with some of the crew of Rose

Geoff Squibb

Geoff Squibb

Falmouth, Cornwall

Offering a fine collection of individual waterside, rural and village self-catering holiday cottages on the south coast of Cornwall.

01326 375972

martin@creeksidecottages.co.uk www.creeksidecottages. co.uk

IN STORE A surprise

Nestled at the head of the beautiful Helford River, and lying within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the picturesque village of Gweek. It has been a port since Roman times and once had its own customs house and a quayside tin smelting house in times gone by. Today, it is very much still a vibrant Cornish village, with several thriving businesses, including the bustling boatyard, Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Boatyard Café and Black Swan Inn.

It's here that you will also find Gweek Village Stores. Once your average corner shop, it has recently been transformed into a bright, welcoming space that stocks an array of local food, drink and artisan produce. It’s gaining a reputation for its wide range of organic, vegan and ‘free-from' goods, and stocks an ever-increasing range of quality, unique gifts and cards.

Outside in the spacious backyard, you can choose from a wide range of seasonal vegetables, herbs and fruit plants, all organically grown less than a mile from the shop and ready to plant in your own garden.

The owners have re-opened the traditional ice-cream hatch that was used during the 70s and 80s, but with the modern addition of an ice-cream van mural, drawing the attention

of passers-by. Here you can grab a freshly-baked Ann’s pasty, delicious local ice cream, a Penny’s Pie, an incredibly moreish flapjack from the Cornish Flapjack Shack, as well as a range of cakes and coffees.

With plenty of off-road parking and seating outside or in the ‘Little Event Tent’, the shop offers plenty for those staying in the village or passing through by car, bike or on foot. Children love to sit and play on the vintage tractor parked up at the entrance and man’s best friend is fully catered for with dog ice cream and treats available.

Less busy with visitors than other village destinations on the Lizard Peninsula, Gweek is something of a hidden gem. A top insider tip is to pay a visit on a sunny summer Wednesday evening, when visitors and locals alike picnic on fish and chips from Sid’s famous van, whilst the Gweek Silver Band plays on the village green.

GWEEK VILLAGE STORES

Post Office Row, Gweek, Helston TR12 6TU gweekvillagestores www.gweekvillagestores.co.uk Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk

Unveiling a treasure trove of groceries, produce, plants and more at Gweek Village Stores.

Katie Bullingham

Vivien Howse photography

CURIOSITY Clifftop

Set amidst three clifftop meadows, Terence Coventry’s monumental sculptures keep watch over the waves below.

é ABOVE & ê BELOW

Pomona, the Coventry's family home, is available to rent exclusively via Unique Homestays

There are few things left in life that are free. However, a visit to Coverack and a subsequent meander along the South West Coast Path reveals a rare opportunity to experience up to 25 of Terence Coventry’s imposing and inspiring sculptures at close quarters, installed for the pleasure of all who pass this way. Moving to Coverack from the West Midlands with his parents in the 60s, Terence lived on this clifftop farm with his family for more than 30 years. Terence gained early admittance to the Stourbridge School of Art, after which he studied at the Royal College of Art before he left London. He originally farmed the land, his art taking a back seat, before becoming a sculptor in 1985, following 25 years as a farmer. His works were commissioned worldwide, and regularly exhibited in London and beyond.

Working from a rustic studio on the farm, his dynamic, figurative sculptures were produced in wood and then metal and stone, inspired by the birds, animals and people that surrounded him. Walking through the meadows with their ocean backdrop, there is something both contemplative and meditative about the environment. Being able to the view the sculptures in such close proximity reveals them in all their majesty. Standing sentinel amidst the meadowland, there is a juxtaposition between these angular sculptural forms and the natural beings that inspired their creation. The sculptures explore forms familiar to the artist and are at once tender and powerful.

Sadly, Terence Coventry passed away in 2017, but his legacy lives on, not only through the sculpture garden, but also through his home, Pomona. Built by Terence Coventry and his wife, Win, they lived here with their family throughout their time in Coverack.

On Terence’s death, ownership of Pomona passed to his son James and daughter-inlaw, who wanted to preserve the essence of the property. Pomona is now available to rent exclusively via Unique Homestays (www.uniquehomestays.com) and provides an insight into the life of this renowned British artist. All the artwork in the property is original and his, apart from two small pieces which were made by his wife Win.

It was important to Tabitha Barker, Stylist at Unique Homestays who curated the interiors of Pomona, that they paid suitable homage to the artist and his family: “I’ve tried to curate the interiors so it almost works as a retrospective of Terence’s very diverse life’s work, so the rooms are designed and inspired by the artwork, which ranges from his early art school oil self-portraits and life drawings via bold bright abstracts, and finally on to the simplified animal drawings which link to the sculptures in the property and the gardens and sculpture park, which he’s best known for. We have styled the glass room as a gallery, which used to be his studio. There are books in the house about Terence and catalogues from his various exhibitions – hopefully guests will feel the connection of the family, it was pretty special to have access to so much great, personal artwork!” Access to the Terence Coventry Sculpture Park is year-round and free; in return, the family ask that the sculptures are treated with respect.

TERENCE COVENTRY SCULPTURE PARK

www.uniquehomestays.com www.gallery-pangolin.com

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The finest DETAIL

Established artists, Simon and Rebecca Jewell live and work on the beautiful Lizard Peninsula from their studios at home in the village of Mawgan. Since getting married in 2001, they have pursued their passion for all things artistic. Working together gives them the opportunity to bounce ideas off, and support each other in the work they do, helping one another to gain inspiration.

Simon has always taken an interest in extreme weather, which he tells us has become a real passion: “There is nowhere to run and hide down here so you just need to embrace the elements. My work focuses on the untamed seas and the large open spaces of Goonhilly Downs.” He works in oils on large canvases, building up layers of paint to give a real textural feel to emulate the ruggedness of the south west coast line.

Rebecca paints contemporary botanical pieces, from large scale to small detailed works: “An important part of the process is to grow, pick and photograph the flowers I use in my work in order to capture the unique forms created by nature. Spring into summer is always so exciting, waiting to see

what will emerge. Every flower has its own personality, from big blousy peonies, the intricate structure of a dahlia or the elegance of a rose. Placing the flowers against dark backgrounds really makes them pop, but also using light backgrounds gives a sense of fresh air and calm.

“We are both really excited about taking part in our tenth Cornwall Open Studios this year. It’s been a busy winter preparing new work, finding new locations and chasing the storms.” With all that aside, the studios are open all year by appointment and Simon and Rebecca are more than happy to welcome you in for a visit, so if you’re looking to commission Jewell Arts for that special piece, or just want to browse their beautiful collection, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

JEWELL ARTS

Tara, Langweath Lane, Mawgan, Helston TR12 6AX 01326 221836

www.jewellarts.co.uk

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A creative duo whose differing styles and sources of inspiration make for a fabulous insight into the Lizard’s art scene.

 TOP 'Eternal Love', Rebecca Jewell  INSET

'That'll be raining over Porthleven way!', Simon Jewell

BELOW 

'From Darkness comes Beauty', Rebecca Jewell

The loveOF LAND

Dive deep into the fascinating life of Martin Grimshaw, revered local artist that uses his love for the land to inspire abstract works of beauty.

Martin Grimshaw has spent the majority of his life in and around nature. Born in 1946 in Lancashire, he moved to Bude in 1954. Settling into his new home on the north coast of Cornwall, Martin became engrossed in the land, diving obsessively into farmwork from a young age, much to the detriment of his early schoolwork. Despite almost total neglect of his school work, his art teacher noticed a talent and persuaded him to complete his art O-Level, in addition to his heavily science based curriculum at the time. This created the foundation for the art we see today.

Martin’s love of the land continued into his teens, for at the age of 18 he travelled to Denmark to work on yet another farm, before returning to England to attend the University of Reading. Unsurprisingly Martin started studying Agriculture, but after one year changed his course to Cybernetics and Instrument Physics. These complex subject choices gave him the knowledge needed to work for International Computers, which he did from 1968 to 1975, as a Logic Engineer. Throughout these years working in such a technical field, not once did Martin forget his love for the arts, and from 1972 to 1975, Martin embarked on A-Level Art evening classes. Reigniting his passion for this subject matter. Martin’s natural curiosity for the sciences

also pushed him to complete a PGCE Science qualification in 1975-76. Through this course, Martin had the opportunity to work with sculpture Carole Hodgson FRSS. After so long away from the wilds of Cornwall, studying in Reading and then working in Stevenage, Martin and his wife, Susan, moved back to the motherland in 1976. They made a home in Mullion, where Martin taught Physics until 1999, at which point he retired to become

ABOVE é 'Early spring blackthorn, Predannack'

RIGHT è Martin Grimshaw

PREVIOUS  'Stormy sunset, Predannack Head'

a full-time artist. Achieving this life-long dream was not easy. Martin took on several courses over the years that he completed alongside a full-time job. These included evening classes from 1991 with artist Vincent Tutton, whom he went on to share a studio with for many years in Helston, and then at Predannack Wollas. Martin completed his full-time studies in 1998 and was awarded an MA in Fine Art from Falmouth College of Art in 2000. Susan sadly passed away in 2004, but Martin still has his studio in Predannack Wollas, which can be found in the heart of the Lizard conservation area, placing himself in the centre of Cornwall’s big skies, often roaring sea, tracks of cattle filling with rain water and gales blowing in from the west with ravens soaring, all never far from the very lands that inspire his work so deeply. “My favourite time is wandering in a gentle mist among docile cattle and friendly ghosts, when I might compose some poetry.”

Martin enjoys sharing his work with those that are engaged in it on a deeper level. Given the abstract nature of his pieces, Martin delights in discussing his works with an audience that questions it. Often asking them what they see or feel in response. He finds it fascinating when someone finds something totally different from that which was originally perceived by Martin himself. “This is the beauty of art,” says Martin. “I now rarely show my work where I do not have some opportunity to engage with people who find themselves interested in it. Because it can seem quite abstract, I am asked sometimes

what it is about, and my reply will be, “what do you think?”. Should they reply with what I think then that is nice, but more interestingly to me is when they perceive something different than I think it could be and maybe truer to what I really meant.”

“This might seem a strange thing to say, but often in the studio, I will start a painting or drawing with one idea, only to find that somehow the canvas or paper, has a mind of its own and insists on being listened to. Too me the painting is all the better for it, although I’m then less sure what it is about. The viewer who is not me, possibly comes to the work without my preconceptions.”

You can find Martin’s work at the Lizard Art Gallery, Trelowarren. He also regularly submits work to the Newlyn Society of Artist exhibitions at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens.

MARTIN GRIMSHAW

www.martingrimshaw.co.uk @martin.grimshaw.54

grimshawmartin

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é TOP 'Cattle track and cave'

TOP é 'Sea storm, Pol Cornick, Predannack'

ABOVE é 'Walk across the Lizard J R Tolkien'

ë ABOVE LEFT 'Kynance Farm, flooded cattle track'

é ABOVE RIGHT 'Cloud woman (from photo of the sky, Predannack)'

BAR

A fully stocked farm shop selling local produce including breads, fresh meats, dairy products, fresh fruit and veg, locally produced pasties – freshly baked each morning, freshly cooked pizzas, preserves, cakes, confectionary and much more.

Tasty breakfast menu available from 9:00am every morning.

Four Lanes • Cornwall • TR16 6LR 01209 313724

Mobile Massage & Facial Rejuvenation

Offering a range of luxurious massage and facial techniques individually tailored to your needs in the comfort of your home, holiday home or at a Penzance-based treatment room.

Fleur is passionate about using locally sourced high quality, natural products. Combine and create unique and personal treatments for ultimate relaxation.

7747 770816

Here at Minnie’s we have a passion – making our clients feel the best they possibly can, from haircare to your special day! We pride ourselves in keeping up with the latest fashion and trends with regular education and training, keeping our knowledge and skills up to date.

From effortless boho to runway glamour, we offer it all. Wanting to get that perfect colour or style before the big day? We also thrive in lived-in colour, based in the south west in the heart of Helston.

Minnie’s hair studio | lisa_torbett_hair

We also offer travel to destinations! For free consultations contact us on 01326 574863

• FOOD • BAKERY SHOP • CAFE

Artistic

INSPIRATION

Drawing on the wild and rugged landscape of the Lizard Peninsula, Lizard Art is a co-operative of artists who work in a wide spectrum of styles and media.

Situated on the timeless Trelowarren Estate, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Lizard Art is a cooperative of 14 artists hidden away in a beautiful courtyard of ancient buildings. The Stable Yard Gallery continues to be a hub of activity as the artists display a new exhibition three times a year, in spring, summer and autumn, so there is always something new for the returning visitor to appreciate.

After a scenic drive through the estate, an eclectic mix of various styles and techniques are presented in a spacious, airy gallery, encompassing representational and abstract paintings. From exciting seascapes that capture stormy weather to gentle water colours that embrace the warmth of summer.

Housing an eclectic collection of originals, prints and cards, the gallery is run by the artists themselves, which gives them the opportunity to share their enthusiasm about their own work and those of their colleagues – a real highlight for visitors keen to know more. Amongst the collection you’ll also be able to find work from the gallery’s associate craft members, which include gorgeous serpentine works, fascinating ceramics, glass, textiles and jewellery.

For 2023, Lizard Art is planning an extra early Spring Retrospective Exhibition of

a dear friend and member of Lizard Art who recently passed away, Janet Judge. Janet had been painting professionally for over 30 years and exhibited widely throughout the country. She had been a member of Lizard Art for over a decade including Chairperson. She was a supportive mentor and valued comrade and companion within the group, and one who will be greatly missed.

Janet frequently walked on the coast path around the Lizard Peninsula which was a huge inspiration for her work, in which she loved the play of colours against each other using the pure colours of watercolour. Janet’s vibrant work will be available for purchase in the first exhibition of 2023 in early spring, consisting of original paintings, prints and cards.

LIZARD ART

Trelowarren Estate, Mawgan, Helston TR12 6AF 01326 221778

admin@lizardart.co.uk

thestableyardgallery

lizardartgallery www.lizardart.co.uk

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 ABOVE 'Carleon Bay in Winter', Neville Cox

 INSET 'Bowl of Fruit', Janet Judge

EXPERIENCE

DISCOVER MORE...

Exhibitions at Lizard Art 2023

Janet Judge Retrospective 18th March – 2nd April

Private View

18th March – 2pm – 4pm

Member’s exhibitions

5th April – 4th June

7th June – 27th August

30th August – 29th October

Lizard Art is open Wednesday – Sunday, 11am – 3pm

TOP  'Trio', Mary Taylor

THE HELM Take to

Off a quiet country lane, it’s a jawdropping moment coming down to the secrecy of Trevassack Lake, leaving locals wondering why they’ve not been before and holidaymakers coming back for more. Welcome to a new, exciting community hub of watersports, holidays and lakeside café open to everyone!

Owned by Cornish charity Children’s Sailing Trust, the activities are run by CST Experiences; sailing, paddlesports, wild swimming, events and venue hire for birthdays, group meet-ups and even accessible weddings, with well-being classes such as yoga and pilates held in the lakeside function room. What’s more, the whole site is wheelchair and SEND-friendly.

Just a stone’s throw from the water, Trevassack Holidays is CST’s collection of six accessible holiday properties, with hot tubs set in each deck! Stay a few days and enjoy sunsets over still waters, or book for longer and take lessons to earn an RYA qualification on the river, with guests receiving a 15% discount on watersports.

The cherry on the lake? The waterside café run by locally-renowned Cornish Food Hub; enjoy artisan coffee and homemade cakes or

indulge in gourmet deli brunches or cookedto-order lunches with a view, open seven days a week to the general public. Private dining options are available for evenings or special occasions and Chef Andrei also makes a mean roast on a Sunday… Sit inside and dine, eat al fresco on the lakeside deck or brunch at a picnic table on the beach. You’ve just found your new favourite eatery beside the ‘secret’ lake.

As a not-for-profit organisation, bookings with CST help support the work of the charity, set up by John Green MBE in 1997. He wanted every child to experience the freedom of sailing on the Helford River – that glorious, life-affirming feeling of carving paths through open water, tacking and gybing with a twitch of the rudder, and now thousands of children have taken the helm, working towards their RYA accreditations with pride on both the river and the lake.

CHILDREN’S SAILING TRUST

01326 702326

hello@cstexperiences.co.uk

www.cstexperiences.co.uk

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Hidden just a few miles south of the Helford River, a hive of accessible activity is bubbling away in the privacy of an abandoned quarry…

 ABOVE Award-winning Trevassack Lake is fully accessible and open to all

ORDINARYEscaping the

With wild swimming becoming a particularly popular pastime, the team at Escape Swims know that there is no better place than Cornwall to immerse yourself in adventure.

With a unique and special coastline, the Lizard Peninsula has some amazing places to get away from it all and into the water. Wild swimming has taken off recently for good reason, with a whole world of benefits for both mental and physical health linked to the activity.

Escape Swims is a Cornish company offering support for every level of swimmer to access those benefits through workshops, courses and retreats.

Jem Wallis, owner of Escape Swims, explains: “We’re spoilt for choice in Cornwall for natural swimming spots, but the Lizard has a whole host of inspiring options for a swim, from sheltered coves and the beautiful Helford River to really exciting backdrops such as Kynance Cove. Taking the plunge into wild swimming may seem daunting to the uninitiated, but getting out there in the elements and immersing yourself in cool waters is like food for the soul. It opens up a world of benefits for the body and the mind which have a profound impact on spirit and focus.”

Those benefits begin with breathing, which has a surprisingly powerful effect on not only your swimming, but also your ability to get

into the cold water and even overcome everyday stresses and build resilience.

Escape Swims also offer specialist coaching for those looking to push their swimming a little more. Jem is a former Olympic swimming trialist and a coach with over two decades of experience, so can stretch even the most confident of swimmers. “Our Front Crawl Workshops develop your stroke in a short space of time,” he explains, “allowing you to transition into longer swims. When you’re ready, come and join us for a Ramble Dip or an Adventure Swim, or why not join one of our swimming weekends where we'll take you to several curated swims whilst you're on your holiday."

The team at Escape Swims offer advice, guidance and support for everyone, so no matter where you are on your swimming journey, they will ensure that you can get the most out of the water.

ESCAPE SWIMS LTD

Canons Place, Helston TR13 8LS escape_swims

Escape Swims

www.escape-unplugged.co.uk

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Trenance

Shop and Factory

Honey Cosmetics – Cornish honey skincare products

Serendipity – gifts, toys, books and crystals

Rock Paper Scissors – jewellery, stationery and other gifts

Mullion Mades – wonderful wool and woollies!

Purely Beeing – beeswax candles and more…

Mullion Glass Studio – a beautiful shop and workshop

Cornish Cottages – book your next holiday!

Mullion Meadows, Mullion, Helston, Cornwall TR12 7HB

There’s a large free car park

01326 241311

ADVENTURE?Looking for

At Kernow Adventure Park, there is something for everyone from ages two and up. Enjoy the thrill of bouncing your way around the Aqua Park, relax as you explore the historic flooded quarry on a paddleboard, practice your stroke in the open-water swim lanes, or be the captain of your own ship and cruise the lake in an E-boat, taking in the sheer beauty of this idyllic hideaway from out on the water. However you wish to spend your day, the team are ready and waiting to welcome you for your 2023 adventure.

Jump, bounce, slide and splash your way around the ever-popular Aquapark, which is undoubtedly the favourite element of the park amongst visitors young and old. With a maximum of 40 people during one session, and with lifeguards on hand to maintain everyone’s safety, what could be more thrilling than splashing and sliding off an inflatable obstacle course into fresh water with the kids, or a group of friends?

While the Aquapark may well be the star of the show, there is endless amounts of fun to be had on an E-boat; be the captain of your own ship and explore the quarry on your own

unique voyage! With buoys and obstacles to navigate, you can hone your skills and be a pro in no time, and the fun info boards will tell you all about the geology and history of the site. What’s more, your four-legged friend is more than welcome on-site, and why not bring a picnic along for the day, or grab a coffee to ready yourself for a day of fun?

With a multitude of visitors joining the fun every year, it’s no wonder that the park has amassed a collection of shining reviews, as one happy customer reflects: “Wonderful place to engage in a number of outdoor sports, the staff make you feel truly welcome and safe! The Aquapark is heaps of fun, we will be back!” Re-opening for fun-filled days in May of this year, make sure to go online and book your summer adventure with Kernow Adventure Park.

KERNOW ADVENTURE PARK

Kessel Quarry, Penryn TR10 9BZ 07817 662962

info@kernowadventurepark.com

www.kernowadventurepark.com

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As the ultimate water-based adventure park in the heart of Cornwall, Kernow Adventure Park welcomes thrill seekers big and small.

DAYSBeach

Dive deep into the crystal waters that surround the Lizard Peninsula with our round up of some of the most spectacular beaches.

Gunwalloe Church Cove

The Lizard is home to some of the most spectacular coastline in Cornwall. It’s raw, untamed beauty draws the crowds all year round. Hikers, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, the young and the old all wanting to catch a glimpse of spots like Asparagus Island, the Lizard Lighthouse, Lloyd’s Signal Station and the Devil’s Frying Pan to name a few. Whilst this area of coastline is rugged and a little tougher than most of Cornwall, it is also home to some of the best beaches.

Cadgwith

This quaint harbour village is a place to see fishermen at work, much like days of old. Time has bypassed this little haven, and it is perfect for a swim. The working beach is not so much for the sunbathers, more suited for picnicking, walking or enjoying the peace and quiet.

Just right of this larger beach, separated by a cliff known as the ‘Todden’, is a smaller one. Accessible via a little path, this is a place to dig out the snorkel or find marine treasures in the plethora of rockpols. Cadgwith boasts a pub and the Old Cellars Café, so you won’t be short of a cool beverage and hearty sandwich to keep you going on your adventures. Just a short drive back up the road you will also come to Ruan Minor, where you will find the local convenience store.

Kennack Sands

This popular family beach on the Lizard is not only home to impressive cliffs, woodlands and dunes, but you can also enjoy a spot of rockpooling, surfing, swimming and wildlife spotting. Kennack is situated within The Lizard National Nature Reserve, providing an abundance of wildlife, geology and cultural heritage that can be explored in all seasons.

If sunbathing on the beach, where famous novelist Daphne du Maurier learned to swim in 1912, isn’t your thing, then no fear. This beach is situated right in the middle of the South West Coast Path, so you can pick up the path at either end and continue along the coastline where you will find World War II relics and some more fascinating geological structures. Here there is not just one, but two beaches, separated by a small promontory known as the Caeverracks. The western beach is the sandier of the two, and does not allow dogs in peak season.

CADGWITH

Dog friendly: Seasonal ban. 1st July to 31st August.

10am – 6pm.

Lifeguard: No lifeguard cover.

Toilets: Yes

Parking: Cadgwith car park, free in the winter. 75 spaces.

Café: Yes

Safe for swimming: Yes, but with caution.

Surf: No

Accessibility: Requires some walking on uneven surfaces.

KENNACK SANDS

Dog friendly: East beach –all year round. West beach – seasonal ban from Easter Sunday to 30th Sept.

Lifeguard: RNLI Lifeguard cover in peak season.

Toilets: Yes

Parking: Large car park. This is closed out of season.

Café: Yes

Safe for swimming: Yes.

Surf: Yes.

Accessibility: Road all the way to the beach with carpark.

COVERACK

Dog friendly: Yes, all year round. Dogs must be kept on leads during June, July and August.

Lifeguard: No.

Toilets: Yes

Parking: Two pay and display car parks are located on the north side of Coverack.

Café: Yes

Safe for swimming: Yes. With caution to boats.

Surf: No.

Accessibility: Good.

Matthew Burtwell

Coverack

This picturesque fishing village is situated on the eastern coast of the Lizard Peninsula. Home to a small sand and pebble beach, it’s ideal for families wanting a quiet spot to perch for the day. The bay provides an ideal place for anglers and swimmers alike thanks to its crystal clear waters and protected headlands. In the summer months, stand-up paddle boarding is popular, as is snorkelling and sea swimming.

This area also plays host to several diving companies, thanks to the nearby Manacles Reef. This group of dangerous rocks, located just off the Coverack coast, have contributed to the sinking of many ships over the years. Providing an ideal exploration site for divers that wish to explore a shipwreck or two.

Kynance Cove

This is an unmissable spot on the Lizard, and for good reason. Whether you are arriving by car or by foot, you will be blown away the moment you arrive. The unique rock formations that line this part of the coastline have attracted visitors in all seasons. It can get busy in the summer months due to its popularity with surfers, walkers, photographers and families, so arriving early is recommended.

If spending the day here, keep an eye on the tides as the beach is not that big, and is surrounded by rugged cliffs with only two ways out, and infact it is possible to be cut off if exploring the surrounding cave systems. The large majority of the beach is slightly rocky, but that won't stop you from having a delightful day out, especially when you get to dine at the local cafe, serving a selection of delicious refreshments.

Poldhu and Gunwalloe Church Cove

This stretch of coastline is ideal for everyone. The first beach you’ll come to is named Dollar Cove, named after the silver dollars that have occasionally been found here from the wreck of a 17th century ship. The larger, sandier beach is named Gunwalloe Church Cove, and can be accessed on foot by parking at the National Trust car park. On your way to the beach you'll find a café and the public toilets. Ideal for a day in the sun, this peaceful beach is also perfect for a summer’s day dip. You can either continue along the South West Coast Path to get to Poldhu, or you can drive and park at Poldhu Cove, where there is plenty of parking, public toilets, and a delightful café open 363 days a year. Poldhu is popular with surfers and swimmers alike when the waves call for it, and is lifeguarded so you can enjoy a dip safely.

Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the beach 10am to 6pm from 1st July to 31st August; they are very welcome at all other times and on surrounding footpaths all year round.

Lifeguard: No. Caution should be taken to the tides.

Toilets: Yes.

Parking: There is a pay and display National Trust car park at the top of the cove. Members park for free (please remember to scan your membership card).

Café: Yes

Safe for swimming: Yes. With caution in bad weather.

Surf: Yes.

Accessibility: Difficult. Requires walking on unstable ground.

POLDHU CHURCH COVE

Dog friendly: Dogs are not allowed on the beach 10am to 6pm, from 1st July to 31st August; they are very welcome at all other times and on surrounding footpaths at any time of year.

Lifeguard: Yes. From mid-May until late September, 10am to 6pm daily.

Toilets: Yes. Only during the summer season.

Parking: At Poldhu, a large council-run car park is open all year round. It is pay and display, Monday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm, from 1st April to 31st October. Free at other times. At Church Cove, a National Trust car park is available. Payment is required for non-National Trust members.

Café: Yes.

Safe for swimming: Yes. Use caution outside of lifeguarded days and hours.

Surf: Yes.

Accessibility: Short walk to both beaches from car parks.

National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Getty Images

AND BIRD Dave

Holly Bendall’s sculpture, inspired by a visit to Cadgwith, has been immortalised in bronze, finding its home in the fishing village of Porthleven.

Born in Devon and brought up in Dorset, Holly Bendall touched upon sculpture at A-level, but actually went on to study sustainable product design at Falmouth University. After a time working away in sports marketing, Holly returned home as her mum had fallen ill:

“One day I just wanted to get my mum out so that we could have a break from what was going on. We went to try and find some works by local sculptor Claire Trenchard that were located in Lyme Regis. We found a couple, but not the ones I really wanted to show mum, so I ended up reaching out to Clare and going to her studio for a chat.” This chance meeting was instrumental in changing the course of Holly’s career as she ended up working as Clare’s assistant for a time.

Moving between London and the West Country, it was when Covid hit that Holly moved to St Agnes in Cornwall. Working from her house in St Agnes during lockdown, unsociable hours and the loneliness of working remotely took its toll, and so in a brave decision Holly left her job, put her house on the market and embarked on a year out: “I didn’t really know what lay ahead but I had started getting back into drawing and was introduced to poetry, and suddenly I felt there was a lot of creativity waiting to pour out of me.” Holly had always been someone who was very conscious about the environment and provenance, both in terms of her job and her lifestyle and seeing the BBC documentary, Fishing Lives, inspired her to discover more about fishing in Cornwall.

“While I waited for my house sale to go through, I ended up going to Cadgwith and falling in love with the place. The people there, the community and the passion that I felt made it very magical. I was trying to get a few sketchbooks together as I wanted to apply for a course and I ended up visiting Cadgwith pretty much every day during this time, sketching the local characters, the cliffs, the beaches and scanning the horizon for when the boats came in to land their catch so I could be ready to draw them too. Once the house sale went through, I moved back to Dorset and found myself a little lost again. My sculptor friend Clare suggested I fill my days by making a sculpture from one of my Cadgwith drawings. “I chose the sketch I had done of ‘Dave and Bird’ on my first day in Cadgwith, as it summed up so much to me.”

Dave was first exhibited in his plaster form a year ago at Holan, a pop-up gallery in St Ives which was also his first foray to Cornwall. “I took him in a trailer and he was in a studio looking over Porthmeor beach. On his last day there we took him out at dawn and sat him on the beach to watch the sunrise. It was from that moment that people began to ask if he was going to stay. Porthleven Arts Festival

reached out and asked if I could bring him to the event in September. While meeting with them, owner of the Porthleven Harbour and Dock Company, Trevor Osborne asked me what my plans were long term for Dave, to which I replied that I would love him to have a forever home by the sea but that he would need to be cast in bronze. Trevor’s reply was, 'if you can raise the money to cast him in bronze, he can have a home in Porthleven!' It was perfect timing.”

A Crowdfunder reached its target in just a month, enabling Holly to put the sculpture through the bronzing process. The Lost Foundry in Axminster cast Dave and Bird using the traditional ‘lost wax’ method, which took three months to complete. Finished just in time for the 2022 Porthleven Arts Fesitival, Waiting for Fish, as the sculpture is officially titled, has found its final resting place sat atop a lookout shelter on Porthleven’s Breageside, where Dave and Bird will watch the fishing boats float in and out of the harbour, weathering the storms together for years to come.

HOLLY BENDALL

www. hollybendall.com

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 ABOVE & BELOW

Dave and Bird cast in bronze

 ABOVE & BELOW

Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall with Holly Bendall unveiling

Waiting for Fish at the 2022 Porthleven Arts Festival

Rebecca Hawkey

UNDER THE surface

Dive Project Cornwall provides an education programme and experience opportunity, raising awareness of the importance of the planet's marine environment.

ABOVE é Head of Diving, Darren Sutton and Founder, Andrew Forster

EXPERIENCE

DISCOVER MORE...

To register your school for the competition, or to find out more about supporting Dive Project Cornwall by becoming a sponsor, visit www.diveprojectcornwall. co.uk

Alongside Dive Project Cornwall’s education project, which is available to all secondary schools and can be accessed via its informative website, a base has now been established at Porthkerris in Cornwall, where schools from all over the UK are invited to become familiar with the ocean. This experience opportunity takes the form of a competition which gives 400 teenagers the chance of winning a sixday, life-changing trip to Cornwall to learn to scuba dive. The hope is that the children then go on to be Ocean Influencers, acting positively to engage, inspire and motivate the next generation in a bid to save the planet.

The lucky teenagers are put through an immersive ocean-based education programme that they will take out into the world to improve everyone’s understanding of the fragility of the oceans. At the end of June 2022, Dive Project Cornwall ran the first pilot week, introducing 20 students from Sir James Smith School, Cornwall, to a week of scuba diving and marine conservation, officially becoming the very first group of Ocean Influencers!

“It was a proud moment for everyone involved,” says Founder, Andrew Forster, “to finally bring together all the elements to create this life-changing experience. As Ed McGuffie, Deputy Head told us, the children

have returned as completely different individuals, becoming more confident and resilient with a new set of life-skills. To be a part of such an integral change in a young person's life is hugely inspiring for us and we can't wait to share these experiences with our other winning schools.”

Head of Diving for Dive Project Cornwall, Darren Sutton explains further: “We have a superb team here at Porthkerris – many of whom are volunteers – and we’re very fortunate to have a raft of incredible and tirelessly supportive sponsors and partners. From PADI Scuba Diving and the Marine Conservation Society, to Falmouth Marine School and Porthkerris Dive Centre to name just a few, it’s been wonderful to witness everybody coming together in their shared desire to deliver the ambitious goals of the project. One school that we recently hosted have already returned home and set up an environmental group to champion the welfare of our seas. As the adage goes, ‘every little helps’, and if we can inspire a generation of Ocean Influencers to respect, love and cherish the ocean, that will surely drive the passion needed to protect it.”

DIVE PROJECT CORNWALL

www.diveprojectcornwall.co.uk

Find more like this: www.cornwall-living.co.uk