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How the National Trust Saved Cornwall's Coast – The Story of Neptune
For more than 60 years, the National Trust's Neptune campaign has helped protect Cornwall's spectacular coastline. Martin Hesp looks at how it began, what it has achieved and the growing challenge of caring for beaches, cliffs, wildlife and the South West Coast Path.
Martin Hesp
5 hours ago10 min read


5 Best Walks in and Around St Ives, Cornwall
Five of the best walks in and around St Ives, Cornwall, taking in spectacular beaches, wild Atlantic cliffs, Godrevy Lighthouse, Godolphin Hill and the ancient St Michael's Way.
Martin Hesp
2 days ago7 min read


Great Places to Stay in North Cornwall with Walks
I've stayed and walked in some of the finest corners of North Cornwall. Here are four places I recommend for combining a comfortable stay with spectacular coastal walks.
Martin Hesp
Aug 198 min read


Watergate Bay: a great place to stay for walks on the North Cornwall coast
I've stayed at Watergate Bay Hotel several times, and it makes an excellent base for exploring this spectacular stretch of North Cornwall. Here are two of my favourite walks around Bedruthan Steps, Porth Mear and Porthcothan.
Martin Hesp
Aug 199 min read


Newquay beyond the surf: beaches, harbour, The Gannel and a stay at The Headland
Newquay is far more than surf, sand and summer nightlife. Explore its harbour, The Gannel, Holywell Bay and Kelsey Head – and discover why The Headland Hotel makes such a good base for exploring this remarkable stretch of Cornwall.
Martin Hesp
Aug 1910 min read


The Ultimate Cornish Seaside Guide: Hidden Coves & Secret Sands
Discover the wild, untamed side of the Cornish coast. Skip the crowded tourist resorts and explore the true secrets of Cornwall's shores—from the pristine, ink-blotting white sands of St Martin's and the Cold War mysteries of Great Bay, to hidden smugglers' paths, shipwreck legacies, and the forgotten post-industrial coves carved out by Victorian miners. Your ultimate guide to the finest hidden beaches in the West Country.
Martin Hesp
Jul 89 min read


🌊 The Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall: Britain’s Wildest & Most Southerly Headland
The Lizard Peninsula is Cornwall’s most dramatic and distinctive landscape — a windswept headland stretching into the Atlantic and home to Britain’s most southerly point. From the turquoise waters of Kynance Cove to the timeless fishing village of Cadgwith, this remarkable corner of the West Country feels more like Brittany than Britain.
Martin Hesp
Apr 117 min read


Life as a Lighthouse Keeper: The Loneliness of Cornwall's Offshore Lighthouses
In this article we hear about the loneliness of the old lighthouse keepers and we feature a remarkable podcast interview with one of the men who used to serve on some of the loneliest lights of them all…
Martin Hesp
Feb 249 min read


Pedn Olva, St Ives: A Cornish Hotel Stay Where the View Becomes the Destination
Some hotels are simply somewhere to sleep. Others become the destination itself. Perched dramatically above Porthminster Beach, the Pedn Olva Hotel enjoys one of the finest locations in Cornwall. During a wild Atlantic storm I discovered why this St Ives favourite offers far more than comfortable rooms. From breathtaking sea views and excellent food to friendly staff and an unbeatable position overlooking the harbour, here's why the Pedn Olva remains one of my favourite place
Martin Hesp
Dec 22, 20259 min read


Portreath, Cornwall: A Hidden Harbour, Beautiful Beach & the Revived Basset Arms
Portreath is one of Cornwall's best-kept secrets. Discover its historic harbour, magnificent beach, dramatic coast path and the beautifully restored Basset Arms.
Martin Hesp
Nov 17, 20259 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


Pendeenah: A Luxury Holiday House in Polzeath, North Cornwall
Pendeenah is a remarkable luxury holiday house in Polzeath, Cornwall, with spectacular coastal views, clever upside-down design and the South West Coast Path almost on the doorstep.
Martin Hesp
Feb 3, 202512 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


Cotehele Walk: Exploring the Cornish Bank of the River Tamar
A walk at beautiful Cotehele on the Cornish bank of the River Tamar, exploring its historic quay, woodland, valley and riverside landscape.
Martin Hesp
Nov 5, 20244 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


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


Culinary Porthleven: Where to Eat and Stay in Cornwall's Foodie Harbour
Porthleven has become one of Cornwall's great foodie destinations. Discover the story behind its culinary success, eat at Kota, stay above the restaurant and explore the harbour, coast and famous Porthleven Food Festival.
Martin Hesp
Jun 18, 202410 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
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