Headland Lifestyle Magazine - Autumn | Winter 2019/20

ARTICLE TITLE

THE HEADLAND

Lifes tyle

S T O R M WAT C H I N G

The Cribbar

SPOOKY HALLOWE E N

The Witches Return

HEADLAND

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

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INTRO

INTRO

Welcome to our Autumn/Winter issue of Headland Lifestyle.

I’m delighted to welcome you to this edition of Headland Lifestyle.

I have just taken over as the new Spa Manager and, when I first arrived, I was blown away just driving up to The Headland, the stunning location and how grand the building is. When I came through the doors I got a sense of belonging and that amazing things are possible here. I imagine this is how you all feel as our valued guests too.

Personally, I am looking forward to exploring Cornwall and immersing myself in the culture. I have already tried surfing which was amazing. The fish and seafood are unbelievable and everyone has been so helpful with places to go and things to do.

Being part of The Headland family is something very special.

Inside this grand five star experience there is a mixture of real luxury combined with the laid-back feel. Outside every door there is pure inspiration on tap. There is no place like The Headland.

This edition of our magazine explores many of those aspects and I hope you enjoy sitting back and reading it and I look forward to meeting you in our stunning Spa.

Dee England

Manager of The Headland Spa

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

CONTENTS A U T U M N / W I NTE R 2019

C O R NWALL’S FI R ST D O U B LE

5-Star Hotel P. 0 7

The Headland P. 0 8 – 0 9

STORM

TH E

TH E

What’s On P. 0 6

Watching P. 1 0 – 1 5

Cribbar P. 1 6 – 1 9

Witches Return P. 2 0 – 2 3

N O T A L L H E R O E S WEAR CAPE S

A CORNISH

E S CAPE

Max & Paddy P. 2 4 – 2 9

Image: benbattell.com

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AUTU M N AT

Christmas P. 3 0 – 3 1

The Family P. 3 2 – 3 3

CONTENTS

W E LC O M I N G J AN UARY AN D TH E

TI E TH E K N OT I N

H EAD LAN D

New Year P. 3 4 – 3 5

Cornish Style P. 3 6 – 3 7

Recipe P. 3 8 – 3 9

R E L A X AN D

B EAC H/C OASTAL H OTE L

TH E H EAD LAN D

Unwind P. 4 0

Best In The UK P. 4 1

Quality Shines Through P. 4 2 – 4 3

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

W H A T’ S O N . 2 0 1 9 When | What | Where

I C E S K AT E AT T H E E D E N

MAD E I N C O R N WALL C H R I STMAS FAI R

12th October – 23rd February 2019 | St Austell

27th November – 1st December 2019 | Truro

Cornwall’s very own indoor ice-skating rink opens its doors for Christmas and New Year, offering a range of sessions to suit all different abilities. Dance, skate and laugh, as you immerse yourself in the fun ambience underneath one of Eden Project’s man-made domes.

Having trouble choosing the right present for Christmas?

Look no further with Cornwall’s very own ‘Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair’. The impressive selection of Cornish crafts and food will be on display in Truro, offering the chance for members of the public to purchase the finest handmade gifts before Christmas.

HALLOWEDEN 19th October – 3rd November 2019 | St Austell

N E W Q U AY AT C H R I S T M A S

Are you feeling brave this October half-term? The Eden Project is inviting you to explore our forbidden forest filled with mythical monsters and outlandish beasts. From a petting zoo to potion making and pumpkin carving, to owl encounters and even a little monster’s ball.

29th November – 1st December 2019 | Newquay

N E W Q U AY ’S H A L L O W E E N Z O M B I E C R A W L

It’s certainly the most wonderful time of the year here in Newquay. With three days of festive liveliness for all to enjoy from the 29th November until 1st December. With Christmas markets, live music, Santa’s Grotto, lantern parade, the lights being switched on, followed by fireworks and much more.

26th October 2019 | Newquay

TR U R O P R I M E STO C K S H O W

Calling all children of Newquay, you are invited to join the Newquay BID’s FREE Zombie Crawl on Saturday 26th October starting from 1pm. A spooktacular Halloween extravaganza for the whole family to enjoy. Dressed up in gory get-ups and ghoulish glad-rags, hundreds will take to the streets of Newquay to partake in a parade that’s not to be forgotten.

4th December 2019 | Truro

N E W Q U AY F I R E W O R K S D I S P L AY 5th November 2019 | Newquay Head down to Newquay Harbour on Bonfire Night to witness a firework spectacle like no other. Remember, remember the 5th of November.

TR U R O C I T Y O F L I G H T S

Experience close hand the very best of Cornwall’s beef cattle and sheep being judged and then sold. Admire the wonderful show and exhibition of farm produce, cookery demonstrations, floral art, crafts and much more.

M O U S E H O L E C H R I S T M A S L I G HT S 14th December 2019 | Mousehole Celebrating its 56th year, Mousehole Harbour Lights take centre stage to thousands of onlookers admiring the stunning sight, with floating displays of boats, sea serpents and more.

Welcomed by an open-air Carolaire service, you can try some local delicacies offered in every corner of the village and be amazed by the magical colours bobbing around in the idyllic harbour.

20th November 2019 | Truro Nothing heralds the start of the festive season quite like the City of Lights, Truro’s midwinter lantern festival. Observe upon a dazzling procession of willow-stick and tissue lanterns; handmade by artists, local schools and community groups floating through the cobbled streets of Truro. Enjoy a spectacle of music, food and drink alongside the visual dazzle roaming the streets with stalls on every point of the compass.

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N E W YE A R C E L E B R ATI O N S 31st December 2019 | Newquay Thriving just like St Ives, Newquay is filled from one street to another with fancy dress festivities. With an impressive firework display as well as the many pubs and clubs to boogie the night away, you will certainly find the perfect place to welcome in the New Year with fond memories.

D O U B L E - F I V E S TA R H O T E L

The Headland becomes

Cornwall’s first double-five star hotel The Headland in Newquay has become Cornwall’s only double-five star hotel with the award of a five star rating by the AA on Friday 20 September.

The new AA rating makes a clean sweep for the hotel, which earlier this year received five stars from Quality in Tourism. The Headland already held AA five stars for their self-catering cottages, and a “five bubble” rated spa. The news crowns a notable year for the hotel, which began with celebrations to mark 40 years of ownership by John and Carolyn Armstrong.

Darryl Reburn, the hotel’s Managing Director, said: “2019 is turning out to be a vintage year for The Headland. We have always strived to offer a five star experience for our guests, and it is wonderful for our team to see this reflected in the AA rating moving up to the highest level.”

Also awarded an AA five star rating on the same day was The Nare Hotel on the Roseland, run by the Armstrongs’ nephew Toby Ashworth. The family has over 100 year’s experience of hotelkeeping in Cornwall. Owner of The Headland, Carolyn Armstrong, said: “We would like to offer our warm congratulations to Toby and his team at The Nare. I know how much hard work and investment goes in to achieving the highest levels of quality, and it is fantastic for the tourism industry in Cornwall to have two hotels recognised in this way for the first time.

“It is wonderful to see that, after a century in the business, the family is thriving with a double award of AA five stars on the same day. There has never been a better time to visit.”

A firm favourite with generations of holidaymakers, The Headland is Cornwall’s most iconic hotel. Since it opened in 1900 the hotel has welcomed thousands of guests who enjoy its stunning location overlooking the spectacular surfing beach at North Fistral.

Further investment in the hotel is ongoing, with the construction of the Aqua Club, an £8 million leisure facility combining five swimming pools and an informal restaurant, due to open in spring 2020.

...with a double award of AA five stars on the same day. There has never been a better time to visit.

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

AUTUMN at The Headland

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A U T U M N AT T H E H E A D L A N D

A UTU M N AT TH E H E A D L A N D

SHOPPING AND EXPLORING TOWNS

Autumn is the local’s favourite time of year. The Headland provides a central location for exploring all that Cornwall has to offer.

Whether you want to be blown along Poldark’s Holywell Bay like a dramatic Demelza, or enjoy shopping trips for handmade Cornish crafts, Cornwall’s doors are wide open.

If you want to avoid being squeezed in a throng of people in small Cornish towns then autumn visits are ideal. Cornwall has moved with the times and is now open for the out of season visitor. Find quaint places to relax and discover perfect gifts for yourself or others, whilst exploring the narrow streets of St Ives, Fowey, Padstow, Polperro or Port Issac.

Here are a few great reasons why autumn might possibly be the best time to visit Cornwall:

FOODIE EVENTS There are food events year-round in Cornwall, but it seems that the biggest and best are in the autumn. We find that it is a mixture of the run up to Christmas along with it being the right time of year for certain seasonal produce and harvest time. A long running favourite is the Falmouth Oyster Festival.

QUIET BEACHES In high summer you may struggle to find any space on Cornwall’s most popular beaches but in autumn you can often find yourself almost alone on the sand. Explore Kynance Cove (one of the UK’s Instagram favourites), walk the length of Fistral and go rock pooling and find easy parking at a number of tourist hotspot beaches in Polzeath, Rock and Perranporth. You won’t quite feel like a castaway but autumn beaches are magical.

D E L I G H T I N C O R N W A L L’ S G A R D E N S Cornwall is well known for its gardens and most people would think of visiting during the spring. Whilst you might catch a carpet of bluebells or camellias in bloom, that is only a small part of nature’s yearly show. Autumn arguably rivals spring with its dazzling display of reds and golds. This is the perfect time of year to get on your wellies and head out for some woodland walks.

Mid-October to mid-November are the best times to catch the autumn colours.

But it isn’t just the leaves turning golden. With Cornwall’s extra mild climate, it is this time of year that the sheltered gardens of the south coast show their sub-tropical credentials. In the likes of Trebah and Glendurgan, southern hemisphere plants burst into flower whilst banana trees and giant rhubarb reach their full size.

G R E AT P H OTO G R A P HY TO S H A R E If an iPhone had a ‘dramatic’ setting it would be based on Cornwall in autumn. A low sun lighting up the view with golds and oranges can transform an otherwise average photo into a memory to keep.

Rivers flow faster, waves rise bigger and big coats, scarves and wellies are fabulous photo accessories.

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WATCHING

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

Dom finds a pristine winter wave at Fistral Beach, right in front of the hotel.

Photo by Geoff Tydeman

RIDING

By Dom Moore Head Coach at the Surf Sanctuary

People often ask me ‘when is the best time to surf in Cornwall?’

While every season can produce special days, in my opinion the season with the ideal combination of better waves, warmer water and fewer crowds is the golden spell between mid-autumn and early winter.

Many local surfers and regular visitors to Cornwall will tell you the same thing. From late October, the Atlantic Ocean really comes alive as the jet stream buckles and shifts to allow the passage of swell-generating low pressures that bring surf to our shores. The sun sits a bit lower in the sky creating wonderful contrasts in light and temperature that change throughout the day. The coastline is alive and dynamic.

While these natural changes can improve the conditions, here are some things we can do to enhance our surf experience:

•N ever surf alone. Lifeguards operate on Fistral until late October. After that surf with knowledgeable friends or a professional surf guide.

•T he sea is warmer later in the year (i.e. December is as warm as May!) so a decent 3 or 4 mm wetsuit is enough, but team it up with boots on chilly mornings.

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• ‘Chrimbo-limbo’ is a wonderful time to surf.

The atmosphere in the water is jovial and the weather in Cornwall is often mild.

•T ides make a difference. With the shorter days, we only experience one tide during daylight hours so ‘know before you go’.

•E njoy a sunset surf before dinner time! Nothing beats watching the sun slip away with the knowledge that a delicious, replenishing meal is waiting for you shore side.

•S tart the New Year off with a surf! It won’t take long for the ‘bug’ to bite and who knows where the journey will take you through the year...

At the Surf Sanctuary we’re open all through winter for advice, tuition and hire with specialised winter kit (fleece-lined boots, hoods and 5mm wetsuits), so if you didn’t get to surf this summer don’t worry, the best time is now.

S T O R M WAT C H I N G

The Headland is famous for storm watching and its unique clifftop location gives the best of experiences.

E S C A P E O R E M B R A C E AT O U R L U X U RY H OTE L

C O SY N I G HTS I N O U R H OTE L A N D C OT TA G E S The best part of visiting Cornwall in autumn and winter is getting all cosy indoors and watching the wild weather outside. Storm watching is the perfect activity to do for all ages to snuggle up by the log fire. The Headland is famous for storm watching and its unique clifftop location gives the best of experiences.

S E L F-C ATE R I N G C OT TA G E B R E A K Hide out in one of our five star self-catering cottages and enjoy all the luxury services and facilities of the five star hotel on your doorstep. Arrive to a welcome tray with tea, coffee and biscuits and even a pint of milk for a well-deserved hot drink after a long journey! Sink into the bath, curl up in front of the log effect gas fire and pad around in a waffle-towelling robe. Snuggle into a four-poster bed at the end of the evening. Make this haven of luxury your home from home. Watch the white horses gallop over crests of waves, feel the thunder of sea meeting rocks and listen to the storm hammering on the window panes.

Embracing the Cornish weather and landscape can leave you happily exhausted, wiping the sea salt from your face and filling your lungs with clear refreshing air. Unplugged from devices and connected to nature has become a big part of why people visit us. We obviously will not throw you out of our revolving doors into the rain and chilly air if you do not wish to experience it, but our concierge desk is happy to advise on walks, activities and places to experience if you do wish to venture out. We can also arrange everything you need for your return to The Headland with hot chocolate, afternoon tea, meals and spa treatments all available to book.

There is no need to feel guilty for going nowhere. Many guests enjoy the fact they do not need to drive while staying with us at The Headland, and those with busy lives can sometimes feel that a whole day wrapped up, reading a book while the weather does its magic outside is a perfect day.

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

The Cornish Storm

As skies roll dark and the wind builds a tower the ocean snarls to release its power.

Light no longer bursts through the watery cold, the mood has changed as much foretold.

Boats flee for the coast and a chance of calm pulling in the ropes from the oceans farm.

Pitching and praying with yellow and blue, they long for the harbour and warm welcome brew.

In Lyonesse, the city beneath the sea, the bell will be ringing, alerting to thee.

Past rocks and reefs with waves riding high, safety and family for those nearby.

By a headland a swell begins to build, with wind and tide a prayer fulfilled.

The Cribbar bursts free from the depths below, surfers step up to put on a show.

Wind and water push hard on the soul freeing the mind to make you whole.

We are just a small speck in a wonderous story, nature is a force and a storm its glory.

by Ka ren Hoyle 14

ARTICLE TITLE

BOOK NOW Call our reservations team on 01637 872211

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

T H E Cribbar

Newquay’s Famous Big Wave

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THE CRIBBAR

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The Cribbar – Newquay’s famous big wave The Cribbar is an occurrence that happens a few times a year when weather and swell conditions create a famous wave up to 30ft high just off the ocean facing side of The Headland, Cornwall.

Big wave surfers now watch weather reports eagerly to attempt to surf the monster. Spectators flock to The Headland as the perfect spot to watch the phenomenon.

It is the most exciting big wave to surf in Cornwall. The Cribbar is the reef that runs under the water from the Towan headland.

It is shallower than the surrounding sea and when the right swell comes in it breaks over the reef. Because you have got a relatively shallow reef surrounded by sand, there is a gradient underwater and it’s not uniform like the beach, so the waves peel off it, rather than closing out.

For non-surfers, that means instead of the wave breaking over sand, when the tide is right, the waves go over the reef. A wave breaks when it passes over a certain depth in relation to its height and, when you have a reef, it means the depth suddenly changes and that forces a wave to break prematurely. If you catch a wave on the Cribbar, it tends to be much larger than the waves hitting the beach.

How often does the Cribbar break?

To break on the Cribbar, there needs to be a big swell with a long period between each wave. As the waves travel, they often become more defined and have more power. Then you need a good offshore south easterly wind.

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It breaks a lot more than people think. You get a low tide and a swell of a couple of metres and it happens.

-- Surfer Dom Moore, who runs the Surf Sanctuary surf school at the Headland Hotel in Newquay, overlooking the Cribbar reef.

Spectators can enjoy the Cribbar from The Headland; either watch from our large windows and terrace with a warm drink or view from the oceanside lawns of our historic building.

THE CRIBBAR

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SPOOKY HALLOWEEN { at THE HEADLAND }

HOME TO THE WITCHES FILM G L O R I O U S LY S P O O K Y V I C T O R I A N A R C H I T E C T U R E RUMOURS OF A RESIDENT GHOST P L E NT Y O F S P O O KY TR E ATS F O R A L L W H O V I S IT

The Headland takes its place at the centre of Halloween.

As the home to Roald Dahl’s ‘The Witches’, the film has remained close to our hearts here at The Headland and we will be celebrating with a rather grand and spooky October half term that you and the family won’t want to miss.

The film ‘The Witches’ was written by Roald Dahl, published in 1983, and illustrated by Quentin Blake, who famously contributed to many of the authors’ books. The story follows the experiences of a young boy and his Norwegian grandmother in a world where child-hating evil witches secretly exist. In large parts, it was filmed here at The Headland and the cast were in residence for quite some time: Angelica Huston starred as the Grand High Witch, Rowan Atkinson played the hotel manager.

This year you may see a lot of spooky goings on around The Headland throughout October. We have already taken the booking for the witches annual conference to return, so if you hear noises in various corridors or from the basement it could well be them.

The Grand High Witch will be taking afternoon tea in our ballroom during October so be aware that you may run into her. We have found her to be quite vain so feel free to take photographs. You will have the opportunity to dress up yourself to join in some spooky fun and our Witches Afternoon Tea is a firm favourite. Black cats can be hunted, Halloween cocktails can be enjoyed and there is no better spooky backdrop than The Headland at Halloween.

A remake of The Witches film is due in 2020 starring Anne Hathaway, so the story continues to a whole new audience. You can watch the original yourself on Netflix and spot all the filming locations around our grounds and hotel while you are here.

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The film ‘The Witches’ was filmed here at The Headland in 1990... Angelica Huston starred as the Grand High Witch, Rowan Atkinson played the hotel manager.

THE WITCHES RETURN

HALLOWEEN: FUN FACTS

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Dressing up in costumes was once a way to hide from ghosts.

The tradition originated as a way for the Celtic and other European people to hide from the spirits who returned at this time of year. People wore masks when they left their homes after dark so the ghosts would think they were fellow spirits.

Jack-o-lanterns were originally carved into turnips and not pumpkins.

In a traditional Celtic story, a man named Jack tricked the Devil, so after Jack died the Devil made him roam the night with only a burning coal to light his way. Jack put the piece of coal in a carved-out turnip, a common vegetable there, and became known as Jack of the Lantern. Irish and Scottish people would carve their own versions of Jack’s lantern with scary faces and place them near windows or doors to frighten away Jack or other evil spirits.

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Trick-or-treating likely evolved from the medieval custom of “souling” in England.

On All Souls’ Day celebrations, poor people would knock on doors asking for food in exchange for saying prayers for the home’s dead relatives.

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Cats have been part of the history of Halloween for centuries.

During the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, priests used cats as part of a ritual to try to predict the future.

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The history of Halloween includes a lot of romance.

Scottish girls hung wet sheets in front of the fire on the holiday to see images of their future husband.

In colonial America, Halloween’s bobbing for apples was a fortune-telling game: the first person to get the apple without using his or her hands would be the first to marry.

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

Max & Paddy

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NOT ALL HEROES W E A R C A P E S...

SOME ARE SPANIELS!

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M A X & PA D DY

It was an unusual sight when more than a hundred dog-walkers gathered on The Headland‘s grounds to join celebrity spaniels Max, Paddy and Harry for a charity dog walk along Fistral Beach in Newquay, up to Pentire Headland and back.

The event raised £632 for The Headland’s chosen charity, The Cornwall Community Foundation, an organisation which supports local charities, and community and volunteer groups in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Owned by photographer and locksmith Kerry Irving, Max, Paddy and Harry are the focus of the well-known blog Max out in the Lake District, and have amassed more than 125,000 fans on social media. As registered therapy dogs, they visit schools, hospitals, care homes and special events, and help to raise money for all types of causes through charity dog walks.

It is spaniel Max who is the focus of attention as the story of Max and owner Kerry is truly inspiring. Life changed drastically for Kerry eleven years ago when his car was hit by a truck.

“I was used to cycling 500 to 600 miles a month and loved fell walking – but basically, my life stopped,’ he says. “I was on 27 tablets a day and struggled to walk even a short distance. It was a deep downward spiral for me until I met Max in 2008 and my rehabilitation gradually began.”

Max, a loveable springer spaniel, has helped Kerry to regain his freedom and the pair are now inseparable.

“Max belonged to a neighbour and I started by taking him out for very short walks every day. Within a week we became the best of pals. When I retrained as a locksmith, he started to come to work with me every day. Initially, he gave me a reason to go out and helped me through very dark times. It’s taken a long time to open up and talk about depression and it took me six years to climb a hill again. Max got me there. I would not be here if it wasn’t for Max, we rescued each other really.”

It was suggested that Max apply to be a registered therapy dog and was put through the induction course for Therapy Dogs Nationwide who then later invited Max to Crufts as a special VIP guest in 2016. Max works in his role as therapy dog solely with Freedom Wizard, meeting people on the fells and helping them to overcome life’s challenges. Max was also voted Countryfile Dog of the Year in 2016.

...it took me six years to climb a hill again. Max got me there. I would not be here if it wasn’t for Max, we rescued each other really.

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Max has now been joined by Paddy and puppy Harry. Kerry calls the trio a team and they do everything together.

“We’re up at 5am every morning, the legacy of a back injury, and out in all weathers.”

The dogs are also famous for their flapometers (ears) which are used to judge wind strength. When Storm Doris was due to hit Britain, Kerry captured Max out in the wind on Latrigg summit, posting the video with the comment ‘Flapometers at seismic today.’ Max made the national press and shot to social media stardom as the post was shared and eventually received a combined 10 million views.

The famous trio have had a busy summer appearing at Crufts, visiting Buckingham Palace for a Garden Party, appearing on numerous TV shows and meeting The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (twice!).

The charity walk at The Headand took place as part of a week’s break from the Lake District, where Kerry, Max, Paddy and Harry sampled the doggy delights of Cornwall. As part of their visit, they enjoyed a two-night stay at the dog-friendly Headland Hotel.

Jeremy Ward, development director at the Cornwall Community Foundation, said; “The Headland is a great supporter of the Cornwall Community Foundation, and we are very grateful to them and Kerry for hosting such a fantastic event. The money raised from the day will be used to provide a therapy dog for Turnaround, a residential supported living facility for young men in Newquay.”

Kerry said; “A massive thank you to all of the staff who looked after us so well – The Headland is undoubtedly one of the most dog-friendly hotels we’ve stayed in. Beaches, swimming and walks – it’s all on the doorstep.”

During their trip, the Max out in the Lake District team also visited St Hilary School near Penzance, where excited pupils enjoyed an abundance of cuddles, doggy therapy and waggy tails.

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DID YOU KNOW? Overlooking Newquay’s Fistral Beach, and with a wealth of dog-friendly bedrooms and self-catering cottages, The Headland welcomed more than 2,000 dogs in 2018, amounting to 5,120 nights stayed.

M A X & PA D DY

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A CORNISH

CHRISTMAS on the coast Christmas is a magical time of the year. Children will stay up as late as humanly possibly counting down the days till Santa arrives. The adults will play their favourite ‘Wham’ song on every car journey and finally the older folk love to hang their stockings in the hope for something more than just shortbreads each year.

Christmas in Cornwall is no different and is your perfect home from home destination, where the word hassle doesn’t exist but the words ‘it’ll be done dreckly’ do. The beaches are still just as ever inviting for both you and the dog, and the food is deliciously enrichening with festivity and butter (lots of it). Spend the day reconnecting with loved ones on the year that has passed or welcome in the new year with family and friends both old and new. Do all this right here in Cornwall and immerse yourself in the festivities and unique Cornish traditions this beautiful stretch of land offers.

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CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST From magical harbourside firework displays and festive food festivals, to the famous Christmas lantern and reindeer parades right here on your doorstep, there’s an abundance of things to see and do in Cornwall around Christmas. Learn to ice skate at the Eden Project under their man-made winter wonderland dome or dust off your walking boots to stroll along one of the many dogfriendly beaches and coastal paths, all thriving with life. For the food connoisseurs? We have Christmas markets at every point of the compass that will tempt anyone’s taste buds, or dabble in a taste of Christmas as you tuck into a classic Cornish pasty bursting with festivity. The Oggy’s turkey, stuffing and cranberry pasty will ooze delights of Christmas with every mouthful (sounds ‘ansome’). For those keen shoppers amongst you, Cornwall welcomes you to the world of relaxed late-night shopping where small cobbled streets are filled with candy floss stalls and joyful carol singers. Not to forget the little ones who are brimming with excitement, you can find Santa’s Grottos at most local attractions, all packed with sparkly lights and exciting presents.

When Christmas arrives, Cornwall comes alight every year with illuminating twinkly lights, dazzling displays and festive Santa runs. Popular amongst the locals and well known all over the United Kingdom, Mousehole showcases a spectacle like no other! With singalong carol singers, bright colourful fishing boats and magical sea serpents dotted around one of the most welcoming harbours in Cornwall, you’ll be engrossed by a display that is second to none. Although it seems we are the corner of the UK, the traditions we celebrate here at Christmas spread near and far. Some we have lived to celebrate for many years and, still to this day, we continue to do so. When most of the country revel in their Christmas delights or sneakily nap in front of the telly, the Cornish, bizarrely enough, decide to strip down to their swimming outfits or Santa suits to embrace the Atlantic Ocean.

Such tradition has been carried out for many years and continues to be a real favourite all over the county. A great way to shake off those extra mince pies and turkey trimmings!

When Christmas arrives, Cornwall comes alight every year with twinkly lights, dazzling displays and festive Santa runs.

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Escaping the family is by no means a bad thing between Christmas and New Year. Relaxing for those precious few days before a new year starts, and after catering for family over the festive period, can be just what the body and soul need.

It has become the trend over the past few years to take the whole period from Christmas Eve right through to New Year off work. That leaves four days to escape to the coast to kick back, rejuvenate and plan.

How can you truly make this happen?

1. Leave the laptop and electronic gadgets at home – take a screen break to rest your eyes and slow down your brain.

2. Be present in the nature around you. Breathe in the sea air, listen to the waves and reconnect away from the bustle of normal life.

3. Make a plan – for this you need good old pen and paper.

What are the three things you will do differently in 2020 and how are you going to do that?

ESCAPE Headspace for making plans and time for your own wellbeing

2-5 images to choose from

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E S C A P E T H E F A M I LY

4. Plan your holidays – we would love to see you back with us for summer at The Headland, but you may also imagine yourself Ski Sunday style in the Alps or trekking in far-away lands.

5. Connecting with family and friends – plan four events for family and friends at home. Dinners, parties, quizzes or activities. They will love you for it and you will have made time for it to happen.

Sometimes you need a winter storm and to get away to make the most of things. As the Cornish say; “We’re going so we can come back”. Take yourself away so you can return with energy and a clear mind.

Enjoy our headland, beaches, spa, fresh air and food.

Twixmas packages can be found on our website.

Relaxing for those precious few days before a new year starts...can be just what the body and soul need.

T H E FA M I LY

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WE LCOM I N G

JANUARY NEW YEAR AND THE

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NEW YEARS

New Year at The Headland is a house party on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. With numerous guests, both new and returning, this is the showcase annual social gathering. With an abundance of glitz, flowing fizz, exquisite menus and entertainment to keep everyone amused throughout.

January is a fabulous time in Cornwall, quiet with empty beaches and locals out and about enjoying their own life balance. The chilly air can be a time for reinvigoration or quiet contemplation. Enjoy a long stroll along the cliff-tops and embrace the Cornish breeze.

You may have been brave and started it all off with a New Year’s Day dip in Newquay Harbour.

If all that fresh air is not your thing, you may choose to hunker down on a squashy sofa with a fully loaded hot chocolate, watch a movie or two and just dream away to the crackle of the log fire.

Families, couples and groups can all find a little more of themselves, and often more about others (dependant on the gin!) in the New Year.

FORGET THE RESOLUTIONS! We all know that resolutions only last as far as 2nd January. The sticky note with your resolution stuck to your mirror then falls like a leaf into your bin and, along with it, your resilience. Make plans, book trips and ‘do the action’ is the way forward. Once you’ve decided to take 10 of your close friends to see Cher in Las Vegas, then it will happen!

From the darkness of the longer nights you can emerge into the longer days of summer ready to surf life’s yearly path.

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

TIE THE KNOT in Cornish style

Every bride-to-be will love the early stages of wedding planning; the frazzle and dazzle thrown in with the excitement of spending the future with their one true love all add to the special moment.

But it may seem like you are walking into an overwhelming industry, whether you have experienced it all before or are a complete newbie to the unexplored world. When you begin to plan your special day, you may have an idea of what suits you best as a couple. However, as you discuss your plans with your nearest and dearest, the horizons get broadened and your path to walking down the aisle goes slightly off track.

The Headland pride themselves on providing a variety of options for each perfect wedding day and then tailoring these with ideas to suit the individual couple. For over 20 years, we have played a huge part in various special wedding occasions and, with doing so, we have certainly learnt a lot along the way!

Therefore, as we move towards 2020 we would like to share some of the up and coming trends.

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HEN PARTIES We’ve seen an increase in brides-to-be and their hens opting for a more relaxed and intimate hen party. We’re pleased to offer pampering spa days and Vintage Afternoon Teas (complete with floral crockery and bunting!), allowing the bride-to-be to enjoy a special day that is suitable for all family and friends. For the thrill-seeker hen, we’re just a stone’s throw from Fistral Beach and the superb Surf Sanctuary, offering hen parties the chance to take part in various adrenaline-filled activities such as coasteering, paddle boarding and surfing. Giving you the chance to celebrate in style, share a laugh and add to your unforgettable memories with your dearest.

... providing a variety of options for each perfect wedding day

TIE THE KNOT

ELOPING

KEEP YOUR CATERING LOCAL

For many engaged couples, sharing their wedding day with just a selected few of their nearest and dearest is the perfect option.

Elopements are becoming increasingly popular, allowing the wedding couple to say their vows and make their binding contract with one another, alongside just two witnesses (don’t worry, The Headland can offer elopements for up to 12 people). These carefully designed weddings still enable the couple to dress to impress and also follow the usual traditions, but in an intimate environment that is suited to them.

Whether you hail from near or far, you can not miss the fantastic produce Cornwall has to offer! Give your guests a real, local experience by offering menus filled with exquisite Cornish tastes, all from the end of your tongue. From sipping Camel Valley sparkling wine whilst nibbling on a local crab canapé, to toasting with a freshly brewed cup of Cornish tea and scone topped with Rodda’s clotted cream and Boddington’s strawberry jam, The Headland loves local!

AFTERNOON TEA

UNPLUGGED CEREMONIES

The Headland Afternoon Tea Experience is a real attraction for many of our guests. Therefore, when looking for something different to offer your guests on your wedding day, our Afternoon Tea wedding breakfasts offer something very spectacular. How idyllic would it be to enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, Headland scones topped with Boddingtons strawberry jam and Rodda’s Cornish clotted cream whilst admiring the stunning Cornish coast?

On a more personal note, I would suggest implementing an ‘unplugged wedding ceremony’. When you have hired an experienced and talented photographer for your day, it should be worth every penny. You envisage the perfect photo of walking down the aisle and standing at the end of the alter gazing into each other’s eyes as you are about to start your life together as a married couple. With an ‘unplugged ceremony’, you eliminate the risk of having phones and cameras getting in the way of the perfect shot.

By Jodie Apps

Events Co-Ordinator

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

... Tipple has got to be a big ol’ red such as Pinot Noir.

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RECIPE

Slow Cooked Cornish Feather Blade, Headland Sea Spinach, Wild Mushrooms & Charred Onion Ingredients for 6-8 1x trimmed whole feather blade of beef

Butter

Curing salt

Beef or chicken stock to cover (optional)

1x bottle of full-bodied, quality red wine,

3 or 4 good handfuls of choice picked

reduced by half & chilled

Cornish sea spinach leaves or large

1x small bunch of thyme

leaf spinach

3x bay leaves

200g trimmed girolles or other

4x cloves of garlic

in-season wild mushrooms

80ml Cornish extra virgin rapeseed oil

2x whole white onions, topped & tailed &

(or extra virgin olive oil)

roasted in a medium oven until fully cooked

Freshly ground black pepper

01. Cure the feather blade lightly by covering evenly with curing salt for 4 hours. Rinse very well and pat dry.

Season with freshly ground black pepper.

02. In a large vac pac bag, combine the blade, red wine, thyme, bay leaves, garlic and oil.

03. Seal well and place in a water bath at 70 degrees Celsius for approximately 15 hours or until it is tender to the touch. The inner central seam of the blade must be meltingly tender. Chill in ice water until fully cooled.

04. In lieu of a water bath or circulator, cover all the ingredients, bar the oil, in a large, lidded casserole dish, (or slow cooker) with hot stock and braise in a medium oven for 3-4 hours until fully cooked. Strain the stock and use for a gravy.

05. Remove the blade from the bag or casserole dish and slice into uniform ‘steaks’.

06. Serve immediately from the oven, or, if you employed the sous vide technique, use a hot pan and brown well

with oil and butter on one side. Finish in a medium oven to warm through.

07. Slice the onions in half, season, drizzle a little rapeseed oil and char well with a blowtorch or caramelise in a hot pan with butter.

08. Use a hot dry pan and quick flash the sea spinach until it starts to wilt down. Add a little butter and seasoning to finish.

09. Use the same pan and cook the mushrooms in the French style; high heat sizzle to release the moisture, evaporate, butter it up, season and serve.

To serve: Divide the sea spinach between the six plates and mount each slab of blade. Share the mushrooms out and artfully arrange the charred onion. Sauce with the gravy if you went for a traditional braise or make a quick beefy vinaigrette with the vac pac juices. Salsa verde or even just a lemony garlic parsley butter would more than suffice. Tipple has got to be a big ol’ red such as Pinot Noir.

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

Relax and Unwind Daily I’m asked to recommend a favourite product from The Headland Spa and every time my answer is the same, the Cellular Recovery Bliss Capsules without a doubt! They are the gift that keeps on giving. I could talk to you about this product for hours on end, but I’ll refrain from doing so. Instead, I’ll merely state what many of my regular clients tell me and the benefits behind these magical little capsules.

Many of my clients, who I have the pleasure of seeing and treating weekly, love to share the same passion for this product as me. Behind every client, there is a great story of how these ‘pods of magic’ have completely transformed their skin. The results they are receiving from undergoing the month’s detox has been amazing - the feedback truly speaks for itself.

These impressive pods are like taking your skin to a boot camp for a month, sweeping your skin cleaner than any other cleansing routine could ever do, detoxifying the skin from pollution, poor diet and the stresses of day to day life.

Known for its unique skin-boosting formulation, each capsule is enriched with precious oil extracted from the Tanzanian ‘Miracle Tree’. Compared to any antioxidant you may find on most pharmaceutical shelves, it’s proven to be 1700% more powerful.

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All of this means that you get a lot more for your money. Containing high optimum levels of anti-oxidant power, it clinically aids to improve the visible signs of ageing and counteract the damaging effects of everyday pollution on your skin.

The morning capsules, a rose pink, are scientifically blended with organic English Rose Absolute to soothe the skin and prepare for smooth makeup application. Whereas, the emerald green night capsules contain calming lavender to de-stress your complexion ensuring you enjoy a much-needed deep sleep each night.

Used in tandem with each other every day for one month these capsules will break down the toxins from your skin and naturalise the free radicals from the deeper layers of the skin.

These will also help to plump, freshen and soothe your skin for a younger-looking appearance. Consider these as your new powerful saviour.

Are you ready to start your one-month course? If so, come and speak to us and we will be more than happy to get you started.

By Sophie Govier Senior Spa Therapist

THE HEADLAND IS CROWNED

Best Beach/Coastal Hotel in the UK

in prestigious Luxury Lifestyle Magazine Readers’ Travel Awards

We are delighted to have been crowned the winner of Best Beach/Coastal Hotel in the UK in the prestigious Luxury Lifestyle Magazine Readers’ Travel Awards 2019. The Headland has also achieved runner-up in Best Family Hotel in the UK. Luxury Lifestyle Magazine editor-in-chief, Nick Gibbens says: “At Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, we’re not just about luxury – we look out for those hotels, destinations and travel companies which have something truly special to offer, going above and beyond the expected to offer a really outstanding experience.

The competition was incredibly fierce and deciding between nominees was tough enough, so we’d like to thank our readers for helping us to unearth the victors. We can confidently say that our deserving winners are the very finest the industry has to offer.”

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

QUALITY SHINES THROUGH FOR THE HEADLAND

I T H A S C E R T A I N LY B E E N A Y E A R T O C E L E B R A T E First, we had the 40th anniversary since John and Carolyn Armstrong received the keys to the hotel. Now we’re celebrating five star status from Quality in Tourism.

It is an accolade that the hotel has been working towards for a long time and the result of many years of hard work and dedication by the owners, supported by the wider Headland team.

The Headland is one of only three other hotels in Cornwall to have achieved five stars with Quality in Tourism.

Carolyn and John Armstrong acknowledge the support of The Headland’s staff, customers and the local community and said: “Our thanks go to our team and our loyal supporters who have always stood by us, recognising that improvement happens over the long-term. We are very grateful to everyone who has shared our vision and helped us to get to where we are today.”

The five star status is in recognition of The Headland’s high standard of facilities, bedrooms, customer service, and the extra-special touches that surpass customer expectations. It is based upon an independent and rigorous assessment of all areas of the hotel and applies to the hotel, the spa, the restaurants and self-catering cottages.

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“It’s about the overall guest experience and The Headland is at the top of its game.”

– Deborah Heather, director of Quality in Tourism.

CONCIERGE SARAH GETS GOLDEN KEYS Our Concierge, Sarah Gaskin, has been recognised for all her hard work and professionalism and has been accepted into Les Clefs d’Or, or the Society of the Golden Keys.

It is a professional association of hotel concierges with approximately 4,000 members across 80 countries. The requirements for selection are stringent and Sarah is the only member in Cornwall and Devon, and one of only 15 female members in the United Kingdom.

Sarah has worked at The Headland for eight years and prior to that she was a detention officer. She says; “I started my career at The Headland as a hotel porter, showing people to their rooms.

It wasn’t that different to being a detention officer really.”

A Y E A R T O C E L E B R AT E

“We are very grateful to everyone who has shared our vision and helped us to get to where we are today” Her passion to help guests and enhance their stay shone through and she naturally leaned towards the role of concierge. In this role, she performs a variety of tasks for guests, from booking taxis, restaurants and private jets, to supporting marriage proposals on the beach.

However, one guest request really stands out for Sarah and that is Stanley, age six.

She says: “Stanley came to see me having attended a pumpkin carving session and he was very concerned about how he would get his pumpkin back home to Manchester.

I called the airport to explain his concerns and to check whether Stanley could take his pumpkin on the aeroplane. The flight company was very accommodating and the captain even made an announcement to all the passengers welcoming Stanley and his pumpkin on board. Stanley was a very happy young man.”

Having been accepted into Les Clefs d’Or, Sarah will be a keeper of the society’s famous golden keys, have access to a network of best practice professionals, and provide reassurance to guests that they will receive some of the best concierge services in the world.

Her mission is to make your stay memorable, so please do pop along and say hello. You are guaranteed a warm welcome.

J O S H U A B ATE S W I N S P L A C E A S A S P I R I N G L E A D E R Our hotel Operations Manager, Joshua Bates, has been awarded a place on the highly competitive Master Innholders Aspiring Leaders programme, a management diploma which is endorsed by the Institute of Hospitality. He will be joining other leaders from prestigious hotels such as The Savoy, The Dorchester and The Ritz.

Joshua has worked with The Headland since 2017, when he took on the role of duty manager. He then progressed to managing front of house and more recently extended his role to take on hotel operations.

With a team of 180 at The Headland, Josh says: “What I love about coming to work is some of the amazing team members we have here. They have genuine care and passion for what they do and have made The Headland into what it is today.

“It’s also great to welcome back returning guests. We’re lucky to have a lot of repeat visitors and it’s always special to hear about their lives in between stays. It is like catching up with old friends.”

As part of the Aspiring Leaders Programme, Joshua will visit boutique and large hotels across the UK, learning about the operations of each property and sharing best practice. He will also take part in training sessions on subjects ranging from how to be a successful general manager, to marketing, finance and human resources. We wish him the best of luck with his own professional development.

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THE HEADLAND LIFESTYLE

The Headland Hotel Fistral Beach Newquay, Cornwall TR7 1EW, England

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+44 (0) 1637 872 211 reception@headlandhotel.co.uk www.headlandhotel.co.uk

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