top of page



Discovering the Best English Tea-Gardens: A Unique British Tradition
There is nothing quite like the unique British tradition of the English tea garden. From hidden coastal gems to quiet sanctuaries tucked behind historic ruins, we explore the very best spots to enjoy an authentic cream tea in the fresh air.
Martin Hesp
May 10, 20256 min read


The Classic English Cream Tea: Discover the Best Somerset Tea Gardens and a Timeless West Country Tradition
Nothing captures the flavour of the English countryside quite like a traditional cream tea. Discover the history of this much-loved West Country tradition, the secrets of the perfect scone, and some of the finest tea gardens in Somerset where you can enjoy this timeless British treat.
Martin Hesp
May 2, 20255 min read


Private Chef Experiences in Cornwall
Experience one of Cornwall's finest private chefs as Martin Hesp discovers Indulgence Catering, where fresh local seafood, seasonal produce and restaurant-quality cooking are brought straight to your holiday home.
Martin Hesp
Apr 21, 20255 min read


The Fallen Angel, Mousehole: Inside Cornwall's Most Striking Luxury Retreat
Perched above the picturesque harbour of Mousehole, The Fallen Angel is one of Cornwall's most distinctive luxury retreats. This first-hand review explores its striking architecture, breathtaking coastal views, exceptional design and why it makes an unforgettable romantic escape in one of Britain's most beautiful fishing villages.
Martin Hesp
Apr 21, 20256 min read


Cornish Walks - Luxulyan Valley
Cornwall is famed for its beaches, but inland lies a mysterious, lush ravine steeped in history. From the breathtaking 89-foot granite arches of the Treffry Viaduct to the quiet ancient woodlands of Prideaux, the Luxulyan Valley is one of the county's best-kept walking secrets.
Martin Hesp
Apr 16, 20253 min read


St Ives, Cornwall: Why Britain's Most Beautiful Harbour Town Still Captivates Visitors
From golden beaches and artistic heritage to a bustling fishing harbour and winding granite streets, discover why St Ives remains one of Cornwall's most captivating seaside towns.
Martin Hesp
Apr 14, 20259 min read


Cornish Walks: Trevalga
A comprehensive guide to the tiny village of Trevalga on Cornwall's north coast
Martin Hesp
Feb 26, 202510 min read


True Tale of an Atlantic Ghost Ship
The Tale of the Marion G Douglas – Ghost Ship Mystery Strange things can happen at sea. The ocean is not man’s natural habitat – he is already halfway to another world out there on the blue horizon – and, when something untoward occurs, it can seem all the more threatening and surreal amidst the waves. This is one of the most extraordinary stories I uncovered during my time as editor-at-large of the Western Morning News, South West England’s daily morning newspaper - and I re
Martin Hesp
Feb 20, 20255 min read


Fowey Hall Walk Circular: One of Cornwall's Best Coastal Walks via Lantic Bay
Follow one of Cornwall's finest circular walks from Fowey through Hall Walk, Pont Pill, Lantic Bay and Polruan, with two ferry crossings and unforgettable coastal scenery.
Martin Hesp
Dec 4, 20244 min read


Cornwall Coastal Foraging: Wild Food, Seaweed and Cooking with Top Chefs 🌿🥘
Spend a day on the Cornish coast with some of the region's finest chefs as they forage for seaweed, shellfish and wild herbs before cooking spectacular meals inspired by the shoreline.
Martin Hesp
Nov 24, 20246 min read


Carbis Bay Hotel Review: Luxury Beachfront Stay Near St Ives
Martin Hesp discovers why Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate has earned an international reputation, from its famous G7 Summit connections to luxurious beachfront lodges, outstanding dining and one of Cornwall's finest coastal settings.
Martin Hesp
Nov 4, 20246 min read


Beady Pool, St Agnes: The Sinister History of Scilly's Hidden Treasure 🌊💎
A haunting visit to Beady Pool on St Agnes in the Isles of Scilly—where 17th-century shipwreck beads washed ashore carry the heavy memory of the transatlantic slave trade.
Martin Hesp
Nov 1, 20244 min read


Exploring Trebah Gardens: A Sub-Tropical Wonderland in Cornwall
An article describing how journalist Martin Hesp met an interviewed Tony Hibbert who founded Trebah Gardens in Cornwall
Martin Hesp
Oct 11, 20244 min read


Hotel Meudon, Southern Cornwall
Hidden among glorious subtropical gardens near Falmouth, Hotel Meudon is one of Cornwall's best-kept secrets. Discover my review of this elegant luxury hotel with its own private beach, peaceful woodland setting and easy access to the beautiful Helford River.
Martin Hesp
Oct 7, 20248 min read


Chapel House, Penzance
Looking across Penzance harbour, Chapel House is one of those rare places where historic character and modern luxury sit comfortably together. This beautifully restored Georgian townhouse combines stylish rooms, exceptional breakfasts and warm Cornish hospitality with an enviable location close to the seafront, galleries and St Michael's Mount. Here's why I think it's one of the most memorable boutique hotels in West Cornwall.
Martin Hesp
Jul 23, 20246 min read


Afternoon Tea at St Michael's Mount: A Cornish Island Treat
Few afternoon teas can match the magic of dining on an island reached by an ancient causeway. Join me as I discover why St Michael's Mount serves one of Cornwall's finest afternoon teas, complete with breathtaking views and outstanding local produce.
Martin Hesp
May 13, 20245 min read


Exploring the Lizard
We had all endured weeks of dark skies leaking copious amounts of rain - but in our case the weather, and indeed the season, seemed to change in one startling, blinding, beautiful moment. I was lying on a large, comfortable bed, about to have a snooze after a long day out in Cornwall, and suddenly the hotel room was filled with the brightest sunlight we’d seen since last summer. So bright that my wife was forced to put on her sunglasses. It was that bright, even indoors! Mull
Martin Hesp
Apr 30, 20245 min read


Cornish Walks: Church Cove and Gunwalloe on Cornwall's Wild Lizard Coast
Church Cove at Gunwalloe is one of Cornwall's most magical coastal locations. This beautiful walk explores secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, the famous Church of the Storms, Dollar Cove and some of the finest scenery on the Lizard Peninsula.
Martin Hesp
Oct 28, 20225 min read


Cornish Walks: Godolphin Hill
<p class="">A walk around the National Trust’s Godolphin Estate in Cornwall</p>
Martin Hesp
Oct 26, 20215 min read


Cornish Walks: Lamorna & the West
<p class="">This walk takes us west of Lamorna Cove in far west Cornwall</p>
Martin Hesp
Oct 26, 20215 min read
bottom of page