Welcome to another Hidden Britain post ladies and gents, this month it’s all about the Cornish coast! Our very own Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat is set in a beautiful location, surrounded by countryside, meadows and only a stone’s throw away from the Cornish seafront. All of the hidden secrets in this post are 30 minutes away from our one-of-a-kind destination, so let’s see what there is to explore…
the chocolate factory & craft centre
Just under 10 minutes away from Mullion Cove this is a fun day out for all the family, visit the art gallery on site, marvel at the homemade jewellery shops and fused glass workshops as well as a wonderful gift shop called Aladdin’s Cave! Drop into Honey Cosmetics who offer a range of skin and hair products made from Cornish Honey, or meet the resident llama family and have a little cuddle with these affectionate and inquisitive animals. Then head over to the Trenance Chocolate Factory and watch the master chocolatiers create amazing shapes, from bite sized bars to indulgent boxes, with mouth watering Belgian chocolate.
the lizard lighthouse heritage centre
The distinctive twin towers of the lighthouse mark the most southern part of the UK mainland, it boasts outstanding views and is still a working lighthouse guiding vessels along the English Channel. The lighthouse is steeped in maritime history, with building started in 1619 and finally completed in 1751, you can learn all about the varied history in the original engine room, through exhibitions and audio visual displays. Learn how technology and science has impacted the lighthouse over the last 500 years, before climbing up the stairs for breathtaking views out to sea.
trebah garden
Wander around the gardens with a breathtaking coastal backdrop, with their own secluded and private beach along the Helford River, and views out to sea. Trebah Gardens is famous for being a sub-tropical paradise bursting with exotic blooms and endless vibrant tunnels of flowers and plants to explore. With four miles of footpath in the magical Cornish valley garden, you can enjoy an enchanting day out; the kids will love the adventure play areas and fun trails; plus, dogs being welcome all year round too, so the whole family can enjoy it! Grab a bite to eat at the Planter’s Café, where they also have dedicated doggie tables and offer water bowls for the fur-babies too! There is also an ever-changing events and exhibitions programme to check out too.
the blue anchor inn
During the 17th Century the population of Helston was around 300, with about 30 ale houses brewing their own beer, where as now there are only around 4 in the whole of the UK and The Blue Anchor Inn is one of them. The pub can date its history back to the 15th Century and has been brewing its own ale, called Spingo’s, for over 600 years! The Inn has retained its original charm over the centuries, there are no slot machines or piped music within the walls of the historic building, with every Monday being quiz night and weekly live music nights in the recently refurbished skittles room. And in the summer you can relax in the garden and enjoy a delicious BBQ!
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