My day out: Watergate Bay & Cardinham Woods

One of those rare occasions when my daughter was home in Cornwall and she deserved a treat. I wanted to do something that was both scrumptious and a little bit special, go somewhere with a view to remind her of glorious Kernow and that would enable us to stretch our Westie’s legs a little too – she is technically our daughter’s dog! Off we trundled…

Breakfast at Fifteen, Watergate Bay

Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen at Watergate Bay certainly deliver on views. Overlooking Watergate Bay, the views are simply breathtaking. If it weren’t unsociable to ignore fellow guests at the dining table, the place would likely be mostly silent with people just soaking up the vista. Having been before with friends, foodie expectations were high. Thankfully they met the scrumptious factor and we were both delightfully sated by our brunches.

Attention turned to Lucy, our Westie, we hit the dog friendly beach at Watergate Bay and she had a wail of a time. She had so much fun running free along the beach meeting other beach loving dogs and their humans!

Afternoon tea at Cardinham Woods

After towelling off as much as possible from Lucy’s fur we piled into the car in the direction of Cardinham Woods. Once more we were in search of delicious dishes and a good walk.

The excellent reviews for Woods Café in Cardinham Woods set our expectations high. We ordered warms cheese scones and a cup of Cornish tea swiftly, devoured with much cooing and yummy type noises and once again our foodie expectations were met. It was a terrific combination!

The Woods Café staff were friendly and there was ample seating indoors and out as well as a very popular woodland play park, which gave parents a chance to grab a well deserved cuppa while children played happily.

A mile long walk in the woods at Cardinham followed for us and all our boxes for the day were happily ticked!

Even though we ventured out in the busy summer period, we managed to avoid the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Top tips for visiting Watergate Bay & Cardinham Woods:

Take water and a portable bowl if you’re taking dogs to the woods or beach, especially on warmer days.
Avoid walking dogs in the height of hot days – the sand and tarmac can burn their paws.
Convenient car parking space for both Watergate and Cardinham is at a premium so get there early morning or later in the afternoon.
Car park is pay & display so have cash to hand.
Cardinham Woods is a perfect base for visitors to Cornwall wishing to escape the heat and have some shade.

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About the author: Charmian is our new holiday home specialist and recently visited Polly Joke poppy fields.