Wednesday, 31 December 2014

Rising Ground: A Search for the Spirit of Place by Philip Marsden

A great book on Cornwall for those looking for some related reading.  Available in hard copy, or for the Kindle.  Why do we react so strongly to certain places? Why do layers of mythology build up around particular features in the landscape? When Philip Marsden moved to a remote creekside farmhouse in Cornwall, the intensity of his response took him aback. It led him to begin exploring these questions, prompting a journey westwards to Land's End through one of the most fascinating regions of Europe. From the Neolithic ritual landscape of Bodmin Moor to the Arthurian traditions of Tintagel, from the mysterious china-clay country to the granite tors and tombs of the far south-west, Marsden assembles a chronology of our shifting attitudes to place. In archives, he uncovers the life and work of other 'topophiles' before him - medieval chroniclers and Tudor topographers, eighteenth-century antiquarians, post-industrial poets and abstract painters. Drawing also on his own travels overseas, Marsden reveals that the shape of the land lies not just at the heart of our history but of man's perennial struggle to belong on this earthhttp://www.amazon.co.uk/Rising-Ground-Search-Spirit-Place/dp/1847086284/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1420017877&sr=1-1&keywords=rising+ground+philip+marsden

Saturday, 27 December 2014

Fuel Cafe Lounge Bar - Falmouth

A great place for hearty breakfasts, or lunchtime for sandwiches, salads, soups and traditional favourites.  Also opens in the early evening on selected nights.  Supporter of locally sourced produce.  Situated on the main street: http://www.fueleatdrink.co.uk

Elixir Soup & Juice - Falmouth

A great place for healthy juices, smoothies, wraps and sandwiches, on the main street: http://www.elixirsoupandjuice.co.uk

The Old Quay Inn - Devoran

A pleasant local pub in the village of Devoran (about 5 miles from Falmouth).  Good food and nice place for waterside walks: http://www.theoldquayinn.co.uk

Friday, 26 December 2014

Rail Ale Trail - Maritime Line

Rail Ale Trails offer ale and pub enthusiasts the opportunity to take a scenic tour of real ales in the West Country. Experience the beauty of Devon and Cornwall by train and savour the delights of traditional real ales and fine rural pubs along the way.  The Maritime Line runs from Falmouth to Truro and includes 13 pubs situated close to the train stationhttp://www.railaletrail.com/truromap.htm

World Bellyboard Championships - Chapel Porth Beach

A retro, fun day out on the north coast, in early September.  On top of the action in the sea, you can also find a Cake Off.  All profits go to the National Trust: http://www.bellyboarding.co.uk/index.htm

The Falmouth Packet Inn Pub - Rosudgeon Nr. Marazion

Don't be fooled by the name - its not in Falmouth and Rosudgeon is near Marazion, on the way down to Penzance.  This pub has been award the best Dining Pub in the South West for 2013 and 2014 (Taste of the West Awards, covering Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset).  With that accolade, worth jumping in the car for: http://www.falmouthpacketinn.co.uk/index.html

Provedore Tapas Bar and Cafe - Falmouth

Situated on the terraced streets above the town centre.  Lovely local cafe and informal tapas restaurant.  Daytime opening during the week and tapas in the early evening on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights: http://www.provedore.co.uk/www.provedore.co.uk/provedore.html

The Cornish Food Box Company

A great alternative to having a shop delivered from one of the big supermarkets.  Everything comes from Cornwall and they have won heaps of awards: http://thecornishfoodboxcompany.co.uk

Secret Garden Cafe - Truro

A great cafe with an extensive Vegetarian and Vegan Menu (they also serve health non Vege dishes).  Wonderful cakes as well.  Also dog friendly: http://www.secretgardencafe.co.uk

Saturday, 29 November 2014

The Watch House Restaurant - St Mawes

Beautiful harbourside restaurant in St Mawes.  Great menu and you can also get lovely fish & chips from their takeaway window to enjoy whilst taking in the views: http://www.watchhousestmawes.co.uk/

Onda - St Mawes

Lovely womenswear shop in trendy St Mawes, with interesting labels and looks inspired by Cornwall: http://www.ondarocks.co.uk/

Thursday, 23 October 2014

The Old Ale House - Truro

A great traditional pub in the town centre, with a large selection of ales.  Upstairs is a restaurant, which the Brewery have done as a collaboration with The River Cottage (Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall).  Menu showcases great pub food (the Yarg and Bacon Popcorn is already a firm favorite and the ribs are fabulous).  Great place for lunch when visiting Truro: http://old-ale-house.co.uk/

The Cove Bar & Restaurant - Maenporth Beach

A smart beach side restaurant and bar on Falmouth's quietest and most unspoilt beaches.  Accessed via a nice coastal walk (or car).  Great reviews: http://www.thecovemaenporth.co.uk/

Tuesday, 30 September 2014

The Shellfish Pig - Falmouth & Penryn

Great Food Truck that travels around the area.  Check out the Slow Cooked Pork and Chorizo Bolognaise!  Their Facebook Page has details on where to find them: http://theshellfishpig.co.uk/

Thursday, 25 September 2014

Great Cornish Food Festival

Annual Festival to celebrate Cornish Food & Drink.  Takes place at the end of September in Truro: http://www.greatcornishfood.co.uk/festival/

Sunday, 31 August 2014

Glendurgan Garden - Mawnan Smith (near Falmouth)

Beautiful National Trust Gardens - a sub tropical paradise, with good walking and views.  The Laurel Maze is great fun.  Seasonal opening (check website): http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/glendurgan-garden/

The Ferryboat Inn - Helford Passage

Historic pub owned by the renowned Wright Brothers (with restaurant's in London's Borough Market, Spitalfields and Soho).  The menu is heavily weighted to fish and shell fish.  There is a ferry connecting Helford Village in the Summer months: http://www.thewrightbrothers.co.uk/restaurants/the_ferryboat_inn/

Helford River Guide

A good guide to the beautiful Helford River - which is accessible from Falmouth by both Ferry, or a short car journey: http://helfordriver.net

The Shipwrights Arms - Helford

Beautiful, historic pub on the Helford River.  Great locally sourced food and an outdoor BBQ in the Summer: http://www.shipwrightshelford.co.uk

Camel Valley Vineyard - Bodmin

Cornwall's award winning wine makers.  Up near Bodmin, so probably one to pop into on your way to, or from home to Captain White's: http://www.camelvalley.com

Monday, 11 August 2014

Sunday, 27 July 2014

Hot Water Tank

The tank is located behind the wardrobe.  There is a switch on the LHS of the interior of the wardrobe.  This needs to be switched on when you arrive (please remember to switch off when you leave). It is programmed to heat up 3 times a day.  If you need a boost, there is a separate switch which is located next to the main switch.  This gives a 60 minute boost.

Lizard Peninsula Walk (Sunday Times Great British Walks)

This 8 mile walk is a lovely day out, visits one of the most beautiful beaches in the county and is not too far from Falmouth.  You need to drive down to Lizard and then catch the 37 Bus from the Village Green for a 30 minute ride to Poldhu Cove (this means that you end up back at your car).  You walk from Poldhu Cove, up the coastal path, past the Marconi Monument where the first transatlantic radio signals were sent in 1901.  After a mile you're beside the crabbing quay in Mullion Cove, which is straight out of a Famous Five story and then it's on along the cliffs again.  Summer is splendid here, and the downs are bright with sea pinks and orchids and nibbled by incongruous Highland cattle.  You'll be 200ft aloft all the way to the blissful Kynance Cove.  Time to cool your feet with a paddle and your tonsils with a Cornish Ice Cream.  Then, there is another 3 miles to go, south along the trail to Lizard Point, who's pepper pot lighthouse makes a satisfying finish post.  They recommend the ecofriendly cafe at Kynance Cove, with its turf roof and wool-lined walls.  They do a great cream tea, or a crab sarnie.... www.kynance-covecafe.co.uk

Monday, 21 July 2014

Amanzi Restaurant - Falmouth

Eat Local, Taste Global is their mantra.  This restaurant specialises in dishes from Africa, from Cape Town to Cairo.  A great option in the centre of town, if you are looking for something away from traditional Cornish fare: http://www.amanzirestaurant.co.uk/

Saturday, 5 July 2014

Tregothnan Estate - Truro

This beautiful, private estate (close to Truro in Tresillian) is world famous for its tea.  You need to pre book for a private tour of the estate.  Teas and other such items from the estate are also available to buy online: http://tregothnan.co.uk

Lamorran House Gardens - St Mawes

Lovely sub tropical gardens in St Mawes.  Great sea views: http://www.lamorrangarden.co.uk

Grace and Favour - St Mawes

Lovely boutique, with gifts for her, the home and the children (sorry chaps...): http://graceandfavouronline.co.uk

The Hidden Hut - Porthcurnick Beach

This beautiful beach on the Roseland Peninsula, also is home to one of the best kept secrets in the county.  An informal menu greets customers during the daytime, where its a take away service with tables close by (people can also bring their own 'bottle').  There are selected themed nights (check the website for dates), which have included ‘Lobster & Chips’, ‘Slow-roasted spring Lamb’, ‘Wood-fired Seafood Paella’, ‘Gourmet Rare-breed Burgers, ‘Mackerel Grill', ‘Sticky Ribs & Pulled Pork’.  All are cooked on a fire on the beach and are very social: http://www.hiddenhut.co.uk

The Watch House - St Mawes

Lovely informal restaurant for moles frites, or a burger.  They sell fish and chips out the back door and there is a famous lobster night.  Bookings essential in the Summer: http://www.watchhousestmawes.co.uk

Sunday, 29 June 2014

COMO Shambhala Products

If you have enjoyed our selection of shampoos, shower gels and soaps - this is where you can buy them online: http://www.comoshambhala.com/shop

Saturday, 28 June 2014

Rockpool Cafe - Mousehole

Great food, gifts and views.  A must on a visit to beautiful Mousehole: http://www.rockpoolmousehole.co.uk

The Minack Theatre - Porthcurno

Probably one of the most spectacular outdoor theaters in the world.  A great programme over the Summer months and well worth the hour long drive for something truly memorable: http://www.minack.com/

Amelies at the Smokehouse - Porthleven

Characterful restaurant, with beautiful views over the harbor at Porthleven.  The daytime menu is simple and casual (sandwiches, pizza, salads etc...) and the evening transforms into a shellfish tapas selection, with an emphasis very much on the daily catch.  Porthleven is around a 30 minute drive from Falmouth: http://www.ameliesporthleven.co.uk/

Polo on the Beach - Watergate Bay

An annual event, taking place in early July.  Great fun, either watching the spectacular polo games, or sipping a glass of Veuve Clicquot (one of the sponsors): http://www.watergatebay.co.uk/polo/

Constantine Stores - Constantine (near Falmouth)

For people who enjoy a glass of quality wine, a cocktail (or two...), or a refined malt at home - this place is an Aladdin's Cave and one of the best places for wines and spirits in the South West (if not the whole country).  Established for over 50 years, there are over 50 Gins, 150 Rums, 1,000 Whiskeys, 1,000 Wines, 50 Cognacs.... Prepare to walk into a nondescript village shop and be amazed: http://www.drinkfinder.co.uk/

Classic Airforce Museum - Newquay

A great place for plane geeks.  They also offer flights in classic aircraft: http://www.classicairforce.com/

Friday, 27 June 2014

What's On Cornwall Guide

Great, comprehensive local guide - covering what's on ... live music, events, festivals, sport etc...: http://www.whatsoncornwall.co.uk/

Cornwall Living Magazine

Website for local magazine.  Whats on guides, shopping, eating out, walks, property and seasonal events: http://cornwall-living.co.uk/

Fire Kitchen Bar & Cafe - Falmouth

Burgers and Mussles, a short hop and skip from Captain White's Reward: http://firekitchenandbar.co.uk/

Folklore - Falmouth

Hand made pottery, wood, clothing, wicker etc....  Great design and quality + just down the road: http://www.folklorefalmouth.co.uk/926xefqllgygyvfre48krcs72vnyn6

Bangers with a Twist - Falmouth

Home made hot dogs etc.... On the main street: https://www.facebook.com/bangerswithatwist

The Meat Counter - Falmouth

Hand made burgers on the main street: https://www.facebook.com/themeatcounterfalmouth

Wednesday, 18 June 2014

Sea Packet Ships and Falmouth - History

A good historical overview of the Sea Packet Ships of Falmouth - which are what Captain White's Reward is named after: http://www.cornwall-calling.co.uk/falmouth-packet.htm

Thursday, 22 May 2014

Captian White's Reward - Top Tips for 2014

Just wanted to share our favourites amongst the many things listed on the Captain White's Reward Blog:


  • Oliver's Restaurant, Falmouth - Look beyond the simple decor.  The food is amazing and matched by some of the friendliest service we've ever encountered
  • Dolly's Tea Room & Wine Bar - Quirky and bags of character.  Wonderful for an afternoon tea (which you can replace the tea with a cheeky cocktail, served out of a tea pot), or to enjoy their amazing Gin List in the evening with a great Tapas selection.  Great live music on weekend nights (mellow guitarist/singer with an eclectic range)
  • The Walk from Flushing to Mylor Harbour - After a lovely, quick ferry ride over from Falmouth to Flushing (the town across the water from Captain White's Reward), you walk to the right around the headland, through beautiful fields and then can relax with a cider and lunch at the restaurant there
  • The Pandora Inn, Restronguet - A great, historic pub (dating back centuries) - good menu and you can always arrange for a water taxi (the ultimate way to travel in Cornwall) - you can walk from Flushing if you fancy an extension to the Mylor Harbour walk
  • The Poly, Falmouth - Great Art Institute.  Always a great free exhibition and look out for their comedy and arthouse film programme
  • Gylly Beach & Cafe, Falmouth - A lovely walking beach, with a good cafe for snacks and lunch
  • Trelissick Garden, Feock - Beautiful National Trust Gardens and views
  • Lost Gardens of Heligan, St Austell - Stunning gardens and a great walk.  Not easy to find, but well sign posted
  • Hotel Tresanton, St Mawes - A real treat.  Jump on the ferry from Falmouth to St Mawes and the service and cuisine is second to none
  • Picnic, Falmouth - The best Cornish Pasties (Anne's) and lunchtime treats
  • Baker Tom, Falmouth - Beautiful, home baked breads and cakes
  • Hunky Dory Restaurant, Falmouth - A great brasserie.  Lovely Moules Frites
  • The Wheel House Restaurant, Falmouth - Amazing seafood and only sell what they catch that day. The menu is limited, but the simplicity makes this place so special.  Book well in advance - its super popular
  • Constantine Stores - An Aladdin's cave of booze and one of the quirkiest places you will stumble upon in Cornwall
  • Hidden Hut, Porthcurnick Beach - Situated on a small beach, close to Portscatho on the Roseland Peninsula, this is well worth the drive to experience the wonderful food and unique atmosphere.  Check the website for opening times and directions.  Great walking in the area as well.
  • Espressini - A great artesian coffee shop and restaurant. Perfect if you are looking for a more refined brew and some super home made food at breakfast or lunchtime.
All are listed in the Blog with full details and web links.

As we discover more favourites, we'll add to the list

Sunday, 11 May 2014

Friday, 9 May 2014

Cornish Scones Recipe

Recipe to make your own Cornish Scones - remember which is the Cornish way to put on the cream and jam (jam first...): http://www.roddas.co.uk/recipes/cream-tea-proper-cornish-scones

Rojano's in the Square Restaurant - Padstow

Acclaimed Italian Restaurant under the guidance of Paul Ainsworth and Derek Mapp in Padstow: http://www.rojanos.co.uk

Paul Ainsworth at Number 6 Restaurant - Padstow

Acclaimed Chef and restaurant in Padstow.  Book well in advance: http://www.number6inpadstow.co.uk

Nathan Outlaw Restaurants - Rock & Port Isaac

Michelin Star Chef, with restaurants in Rock and Port Isaac.  Book well in advance and a real treat: http://www.nathan-outlaw.com

Lizard Peninsula Guide

Comprehensive guide to the nearby Lizard Peninsula.  Great for walks and characterful villages: http://www.visitlizardcornwall.co.uk

Helston Flora Day

Famous, historical festival in May.  Helston is around a 30 minute drive from Falmouth: http://www.helstonfloraday.org.uk

Mousehole Harbour Lights

Famous Festive Season lights in the beautiful town of Mousehole.  From mid December, into the New Year.  About an hour's drive from Falmouth: http://www.mouseholelights.org.uk

Wild Pony Vintage Apparel - Falmouth

Great vintage clothing store in the town centre (45 Arwenack Street): https://www.facebook.com/wildpony

Maps and Guides

There are a range of maps and guides in the drawer under the television

Rubbish/Trash Collection

The rubbish/trash is collected on a Tuesday morning.  Our bin is clearly marked and we ask kindly that you pop the bin onto the verge on a Monday night for the collection.

King Harry Ferry

The quickest way when driving to the Roseland Peninsula (also, cycle friendly): http://www.falriver.co.uk/getting-about/ferries/king-harry-ferry

St Mawes Castle

English Heritage Castle on the outskirts of St Mawes.  Perfect for a walk and explore, once you have caught the ferry over from Falmouth: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/st-mawes-castle/

Plume of Feathers Pub - Portscatho

Nice pub in the beautiful town of Portscatho, on the Roseland Peninsula.  Great walks close by: http://www.staustellbrewery.co.uk/pubs/a-z-of-pubs/222-plume-of-feathers-portscatho.html

The Cornish Arms - St Merryn

Rick Stein's pub, which is in the picturesque town of St Merryn, just outside Padstow.  Simple, well presented menu and good service.  The link also takes you to the Rick Stein empire of restaurants, cookery school etc...: http://www.rickstein.com/The-Cornish-Arms.html

Monday, 5 May 2014

Pilot Gig Rowing - Falmouth

The famous Cornish Rowing Boats are great to watch and participate.  The World Championships take place on the Isles of Scilly in May.  Details and links to further websites are available here: http://www.falmouth.co.uk/on-the-water/gig-rowing

Kotakai Restaurant - Porthleven

Sister restaurant to Kota and less formal.  Set in a picturesque fishing village, approximately a 30 minute drive from Falmouth.  Great as a lunch option and also check out their great Movie Nights (with table drinks and food service): http://www.kotakai.co.uk

Kota Restaurant - Porthleven

Acclaimed restaurant (Michelin Guide and various newspaper/magazine listings), set in a lovely fishing village.  Approx. 30 minute drive from Falmouth: http://kotarestaurant.co.uk

Saturday, 3 May 2014

Introduction/Welcome - Quick Guide

QUICK GUIDE

KITCHEN

The cupboards do not all have handled and require you to press the side and they will open (above the microwave as an example).  There is everything you require from a Cafetierre, Milk Frother, Toaster etc...  The full instructions to use the Microwave, Oven and Hob are all listed on the Website (under the Essentials tab).  A quick guide:

Microwave - Turn the round knob to the required time, select the strength of microwave and then press Start.

Hob - Press the On Button, select how many hobs you require and then slide your finger up the scale for the required heat.  The hob is induction, so only heats up when there is a pan on it and cools as soon as the pan is removed.  You will also find a griddle plate in the drawertunder he hob, which can be laid over the hob and is perfect for steaks etc...

Extractor Fan/Hob Light - To switch on the Extractor Fan/Hob Light, pull towards you to reveal the controls.  In addition to the light here, there is lighting under the cupboards (switch on the RHS, next to the Nespresso power socket).

Oven - The two round knobs pop out and then once you have selected the mode, you can then choose the temperature and off you go....

Nespresso Machine - Once switched on, you select one of the 3 round symbols (for size of espresso shot), insert a pod and close the sliding lid to start automatically (make sure your cup is in position...).  To have a Cappucino, fill the Milk Frother to the line.  Pop into the Microwave for 2 minutes and then use the plunger to create a froth.

Dishwasher - The user buttons are on upper side of the door and are pretty self explanatory.

LIVING ROOM

There are two drawers above the cupboards, which contain maps and other items that may assist you during your stay.  The DVD Player is in the cupboard under the television and there is a small selection of movies (I hope you like our choices...).  To operate the TV, Bose etc...

Television - To switch on, press either the Power Switch, Numerical Number, or TV Button on the remote.  To switch between TV mode and the Radio (Digital Radio) and DVD, press the Menu Button

Bose Soundlink Mini - You have the choice of plugging in your device via the headphone jack (cord provided).  Just select Aux and you are good to go.  You can also connect via Bluetooth.  Just press and hold (until it starts flashing) the Bluetooth button on the Bose and locate it on your devise and it will connect.  The Soundlink can be lifted off the stand (which is also the charger) and moved to other locations in the home (if you fancy some music in the bedroom, or kitchen...)

Digital Radio - Pretty self explanatory and all stations are programmed in.  You can also select a manual tuning mode.

BEDROOM/BATHROOM

The switches to the main light and extractor fan for the Bathroom are next to the door.  The mirror in the bathroom is heated, so will not mist.

WIFI

The box is located in the Bedroom and the WiFi code can be found on the rear of the box (please do not remove).  There is also a booster box in the Living Room.  Both are normally switched on when you arrive, but if not just turn on the power at the mains.  The WiFi Code is: 3c3a26a9dc

PARKING

We have a private parking space, which is behind the house.  The parking is off Penwerris Lane (first entrance on the RHS), which is the first road on the RHS as you drive up Symons Hill (opposite the Greenbank Hotel).  There are spaces for up to 5 cars, however our dedicated space is next to the stone wall.  The parking has a sign to say that it is private property/parking and fines apply.  This is in place to deter other people parking there and you will not be penalised.  There is a pathway connecting the parking to the house. Lighting is minimal at night.  There is also on street parking.

HEATING

We tend to have the heating switched off in between rentals.  We also feel it is easier for people to use the system in a Manual Mode, rather than the complex Automatic Settings (there is a separate Blog Entry with the link to these).  To switch the heaters on, please follow the following steps:


1   Switch on Heater Power Switch
2   Press the Central Button to switch between On and Standby Mode (not normally required – just if it is in Standby Mode when you switch on)
3   Make sure that the M symbol is showing (Manual).  If it shows A, then press the Man/Aut button to change it to M (bottom button)
4   Use the + and - buttons to adjust the temperature, to the desired setting

Thats it - the Heaters work very quickly and you should warm up in no time at all.

HOT WATER TANK

The tank is located behind the wardrobe.  There is a switch on the LHS of the interior of the wardrobe.  This needs to be switched on when you arrive (please remember to switch off when you leave). It is programmed to heat up 3 times a day.  If you need a boost, there is a separate switch which is located next to the main switch.  This gives a 60 minute boost.

RUBBISH

Our bin is clearly marked and please use this.  The collection is on Tuesdays and we ask for people to pop the bins out onto the pavement (outside the gates) the night before.

IRON & BOARD/VACUUM CLEANER/WINDOW VAC

You will find these in the cupboard in the Cloakroom.  We have a Karcher Window Vac, if you wish to demst the windows on a cold morning.  There is a charger on the shelf next to it.  Please don’t forget to empty the water container after use.

GUIDES

There are plenty of maps and guides in the drawer under the television.  Please add to them if you come across anything useful

Friday, 2 May 2014

Samphire Restaurant - Falmouth

Lovely restaurant (about 10 minutes walk), with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients: http://www.samphire-falmouth.co.uk

Saturday, 4 January 2014

Willow and Stone - Falmouth

Wonderful independent shop, with a selection of antiques and contemporary ideas for the home. Located on the main street (18 Arwenack Street): http://www.willowandstone.co.uk

Wednesday, 1 January 2014

The Grapes Alehouse & Kitchen - Falmouth

Smart pub on the main street (64 Church Street)

Falmouth Sea Shanty Festival

Popular Music Festival: http://www.falmouthseashanty.co.uk

Princess Pavilion - Falmouth

Events ranging from music to comedy (the Kaiser Chiefs performed their warm up gig for their last UK tour here): http://www.tempusleisure.org.uk/default.aspx?page=4

The Pendennis Cup 2014

Highlight in the annual yachting calendar: http://www.thependenniscup.co.uk

Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta 2014

A rare chance to see these amazing ships: http://www.falmouthtallships.co.uk

Bosvathick Farm Riding School - (close to) Falmouth

Local horse riding school: http://www.bosvathickridingstables.co.uk/index.html

Visit Cornwall Website

Website for the Cornish Tourist Board: http://www.visitcornwall.com