You know that moment when something surprising makes you sit up and mutter “Blimey!” in mildly truncated awe? Well, I have experienced two examples of the unexpected kind this week. They came in the unlikely forms of an antique half-filled gravy-boat and a whopping great big oil tanker. Distinctive and contrasting, I know - although I suppose both could enjoy being associated with the word ‘boat’ even if one has no right to make the claim.  So let’s get the antique gravy serving vessel out of the way first. It was brought to my attention by a valet-parking attendant at Stansted Airport. When I reached this highly hectic hub on my way abroad one night last week there was a hitch and I had to park in a nearby car park and be  conveyed to the airport in a minibus. It was a short journey and for lack of anything else to do in those dark and lonely hours I asked the driver if he enjoyed his job - a query which inspired him to begin telling me all sorts of strange and interesting stories.  When I returned to Stansted the same bloke picked me up with one of his colleagues. “You’re the journalist chap, aren’t you?” remembered the driver when I climbed into the minibus.   “This is the guy I was telling you about,” he explained to his mate. “He’s the only bloke who has ever shown an interest in our job - and I gave him a real old laugh telling him a few stories.” His mate agreed that it was a job which required them to deal with some very strange people: “We see it all here,” he laughed. “How about this? We get people drop off their cars and they never come back to get them! What’s that all about? Are they dead somewhere at the other end of the flight? We get other people who obviously live in their cars. Kettles, kitchen sinks… The lot! I picked up a car the other day that was so full of stuff I thought the man had hidden a body in the back. I really did! Didn’t smell too good in there and I couldn’t wait to get out.” I asked him: what was the strangest thing he’d ever seen in a car?  He thought for a moment, then replied: “That would be the gravy-boat. A real-old fashioned gravy-boat, like one you’d see on the Antiques Road Show! There it was on the front passenger seat of this car, half filled with gravy. Luke-warm gravy! That was six months ago and everyday since I’ve found myself wondering: why? Why a gravy-boat with gravy slopping about on the front seat? It bothers me every time I think of it.” And now it is bothering me. I have spent hours trying to figure out why someone going to a busy airport would have a half-filled antique gravy-boat on their front passenger seat. A nice shiny gravy-boat ready to go off to an antiques auction, maybe. But not one half-filled. Who would carry such a thing in an expensive car? It could easily topple, then greasy gravy would go all over the place.  So far, no smidgin of a possible explanation has come my way.  So what about that much bigger boat, the oil tanker? I was confronted by this vessel when I happened to turn on the TV later this week. It was in a programme about divers whose job it was to go under the oil-tanker so that they could examine her hull. The narrator said something about it being important to double-check the safety of such vessels because this nation totally relies on them for most of its oil-based fuel. It was a monster of a ship - the sort of giant tub you could fit ten football pitches into on 14 different levels. And it was what the narrator said next that floored me… He reckoned the UK needs three of these gargantuan tankers a day! I do not know how many millions of gallons such a ship can hold, but the fact we burn through the contents of three of these vast floating reservoirs each and every day astounds me. That means more than 1000 tankers a year! You could probably fill the entire English Channel with their contents in under a decade!  That is no drop-in-the-ocean. It is colossal. Geologically colossal. And it only represents our fuel-guzzling habit in the UK! What about the rest of Europe? How many giant tankers, indeed, are delivering the juice of long-dead fossils each year if you are counting the requirements of the entire world? No wonder the climate is playing up. They say Hurricane Idalia kicked off because of increasingly warm sea temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico, and I’m sure the climatologists are right about that - but another way of looking at it would be to imagine the poor old climate is just coughing itself death. And here’s me having the gall to say such a thing! The guy who drove his diesel car 180-miles to an airport where he jumped on an aeroplane which burns more kerosene in an hour than my central heating does in years.  At least I didn’t take a half-filled antique gravy-boat with me. That really would be mad.

I have just returned from a trip to the Danish region of Kystlandet - an area surrounding the town of Horsens in eastern Jutland. What the region offers is a rather wonderful and intriguing blend of coastal beauty, verdant landscapes, and rich history. I shall be adding more articles about the various destinations within Kystlandet which I explored as part of a British Guild of Travel Writers visit to the area. But here I’d like to tell you about the amazing gastronomic offerings of this largely undiscovered Danish gem. We enjoyed some truly fabulous food - including a meal which was quite simply one of the best I’ve enjoyed on over 40 years of travel writing. That was a ten course tasting menu which we were treated to at a tiny restaurant called Ji-Mi’s.  The chef, Jimmy Jensen, is one of the most talented cooks I have met in a very long time. The food was truly delicious - and I mean sensational. The menu was well thought out with the excellent wine matching the many dishes perfectly. Jimmy uses the amazing local produce whenever he can and he prefers organic ingredients. I will be putting up the menu here soon, just to make your mouths water…. (Check out https://www.ji-mis.dk/ ) Jimmmy is also in charge of the food at the wonderful Café Ella, located in Horsens Art Museum overlooking the Caroline Amalie Lund park. The speciality here is a “beef sandwich” better known as the best beef-burger I’ve had in years. Another brilliant meal was enjoyed at Dolly’s, also in the heart of the old industrial harbour town of Horsens. This restaurants specialises in excellent homemade Danish dishes – including the famous classic: fried pork rashers with parsley-sauce. Dollys has been family-owned for three generations and is a very well known establishment in the region. the starter of mussels I had was truly magnificent - the broth was exceptionally good. https://www.dollys.dk/  Fresh Seafood Delights Given its coastal proximity, Kystlandet is a haven for seafood aficionados. The pristine waters offer an abundant variety of fish, such as plaice, herring, and cod. Whether grilled, smoked, or pickled, the seafood here is a testament to the region's deep bond with the ocean. Don't miss the chance to visit local fish markets or harbour-side restaurants to savour the day's catch. Being surrounded by water, Jutland boasts an array of seafood delicacies. From the fresh herring of the North Sea to the Baltic Sea's cod and plaice, the region offers a myriad of dishes that pay homage to its maritime roots. We had a wonderful seafood lunch at Røgeriet Tunø (Tunø Smokehouse) on the island of that name - a truly impressive smokehouse with outdoor dining and a menu of delicious fish dishes located right next to the isle’s main harbour. Back in the town of Horsens you can always opt for one of Jimmy’s amazing open seafood sandwiches at Café Ella… Local Cheese and Dairy Danish dairy is renowned worldwide, and Kystlandet contributes significantly to this reputation. Local farms produce a plethora of cheeses with rich, nuanced flavours. Freshly churned butter, aromatic soft cheeses, and aged varieties are all worth a try. The creamy textures and robust flavors are sure to captivate any cheese lover's palate. Tarteletter: Creamy Chicken in Puff Pastry Shells These delightful puff pastry shells filled with a creamy mixture of chicken, peas, and carrots are a classic dish enjoyed across Denmark. However, in Jutland, they are particularly cherished, often making appearances at special occasions and family gatherings. We enjoyed our tarteletter at a traditional Danish inn called Sandvad Kro, an historic restaurant that dates back to the 16th century.. Berry-Packed Desserts The fertile soils of Kystlandet yield an array of berries, making summer a particularly sweet season. From traditional berry tarts to Rødgrød med Fløde (red berry pudding with cream), the desserts here showcase the region's lush produce. These sweet concoctions are not just delightful but also provide a taste of Kystlandet's summery essence. 4. Hearty Rye Bread While rye bread, or "rugbrød," is popular throughout Denmark, Kystlandet's bakeries have their unique spin on this staple. Often served as the base for smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), the dense, nutty flavor of local rye bread pairs brilliantly with toppings ranging from pickled herring to fresh vegetables. 5. Artisanal Beverages Kystlandet's beverage scene is equally compelling. With microbreweries crafting unique ales and lagers, as well as local distilleries producing snaps (Danish aquavit), the drinks here are a celebration of tradition and innovation. The Farm-to-Table Philosophy of Jutland What sets Jutland apart is its emphasis on local and fresh produce. With vast agricultural lands and rich seas, the region has a natural advantage, and this is reflected in its dishes. The flavours are genuine, and there's a certain authenticity that comes from using ingredients that have been harvested at their peak. One example of the farm to plate philosophy that we were able to enjoy was on the island of Alrø where we were served with incredibly tasty bison meat raised on a nearby farm. We had a bison-burger alongside mouth-watering tapas tt Alrø Købmandsgaard. Conclusion Kystlandet is more than just scenic views and untouched landscapes. It's a culinary journey waiting to be embarked upon. With every bite and sip, one can uncover tales of the land, the sea, and the passionate people who call Kystlandet home. If you're seeking an authentic Danish gastronomic experience off the beaten path, this eastern enclave is your next destination. Follow the latest news from VisitDenmark on Social Media:  Twitter: @GoVisitDenmark Instagram: @GoVisitDenmark Facebook: www.facebook.com/denmark

It was a decade ago that I heard of a new form of barbecue which was just being introduced to the UK at the time and, being an avid outdoor cookery enthusiast, I was one of the first to purchase a kamado-style cooker. It was fairly expensive, but I was delighted with the results and have cooked many hundreds of meals on it since, including numerous Christmas dinners. A modern kamado is basically a new-take on a form of ancient Japanese clay-lined oven. You may have seen the egg-shaped wonders at garden centres or outdoor foodie events and in some posh food-pub gardens, or you might have bought one. If, like me, you believe that quality charcoal is the very best fuel with which to cook food, then the kamado really is the ultimate outdoor cooker. The temperature is easy to regulate - you can cook low and slow as well as extremely fast and hot - so there really is no excuse to burn anything, which is the downside of so many barbecues. There is also the bonus that kamados tend to be well-made and heavy, which might contribute towards their cost but means they offer more-or-less maintenance-free cooking for many years.  Loving my new Kamado Joe Classic As I say, our old model has served us well for a decade. But… There is always a ‘but’. Mine came in the friendly form of Brixham-based Ben Forte, who is global marketing manager for the premier kamado manufacturer, Kamado Joe. I was at an event where Ben was demonstrating the amazing capabilities of one of the latest products, the Kamado Joe Classic - and I could see the difference between my old model and a new kamado was something akin to a Sopwith Camel taking on a modern Eurofighter.  It was enough for me to take the plunge and invest in a Kamado Joe Classic II, which arrived a few weeks ago. I have used it almost every day since. My wife would tell you that I am head-over-heels in love with the big red appliance. I am out there experimenting with it until after dark almost every night. Of course, I barbecue on it, but I also bake things like quiches. And the thing I really love is spinning endless savoury morsels of all shapes and sizes, round and round and round on the ingenious rotisserie device known as the JoeTisserie.  A plump organic chicken rotisseried slowly over good quality charcoal is a thing of wonderment, I promise you. Especially if you have injected its breasts and thighs with some kind of mix of oil or butter and wine and garlic, which is a new trick I’ve just learned. I start drooling just typing the words. An al-fresco meal like this, paired with a pint of Sanford Orchards Red Devon cider or a glass of Salcombe Brewery’s session lager, Salcombe Breeze, is my idea of heaven.  The new Kamado Joe has, for me, become a sort of shrine. It is the altar upon which I prepare great local seasonal food. It is, quite simply, the best cooking device I have ever owned.   Just now, though, I did say there was always a “but”. And there is with my charcoal-fired wonder-machine. Although I cannot actually pick a single fault with it - I would not want to move it more than a few inches, despite the fact that it has wheels. It weighs a ton. It took five big blokes to get the Kamado Joe up the path to my cottage and then up again around the steps which lead to the outdoor kitchen in our back garden.  So that is the ‘but’. I love the Classic II, BUT it ain’t going nowhere. It is very much NOT the kind of barbecue you are going to want to take on a picnic. No quick beach visits or a trip to the high moors this summer with my Kamado Joe. Love my kamado, but it’s too heavy to lug around “No problem,” shrugged Ben Forte. “Why not try one of our new Masterbuilt Portable Charcoal Grills?” I’d better explain that a few years ago Masterbuilt and Kamado Joe joined forces to provide a wider range of outdoor cooking and grilling products. Masterbuilt is known for producing high quality smokers and grills that are very user-friendly and the portable grill is their latest model. “It is truly portable,” said Ben. “As summer heads heads our way, this suitcase-sized grill is ideal for anyone who wants to get out and about - you can easily load it into the back of a car, wheel it across the moors, carry it across beaches or set up next to lakes and rivers.  It comes with an easy to transport collapsible cart, for effortless grilling on the move and, with its tough shell, it is durable enough to withstand expeditions.” Fantastic if, like me, you abhor the idea of those awful disposable barbecues which really should be banned - or the sight of ugly scorched areas where people have lit cooking fires directly on the grass. The design of the Masterbuilt Portable Grill (RRP from £279 (£399 with cart) - uk.masterbuilt.com ) means you can barbecue safely without scarring the landscape or causing forest fires and you’ll be able to leave the countryside looking just how you found it. It even features a lockable lid, allowing picnickers to take the inevitable ash and debris home so they don’t need to worry about disposal on site. The Masterbuilt Portable Grill The grill has a cooking area large enough to feed a small family and is as simple as cooking on gas, with the added benefits of the authentic barbecue flavour you get from charcoal. You simply light a fire lighter under the charcoal, then turn a dial to control a fan for a consistent temperature. The charcoal hopper can supply heat for up to four hours, from 130c to 260c – hot enough to sear steak and eggs for the ultimate camping breakfast and ideal for grilling mackerel fresh caught from the sea. You can also turn it down to slow-cook something like a shoulder of lamb - the perfect reward at the end of a long hike.  Modern technology… I love it! Especially when it embraces something truly ancient like the act of cooking over a live flame.  My only regret is that I wish I’d had a Masterbuilt Portable Grill during all those years we spent camping with the kids down in Cornwall. The Hesp family holiday meals would have gone from semi-edible Boy Scout campfire disasters to gourmet standard offerings in as long as it would have taken to light a lump of charcoal. RECIPES Cedar Plank Salmon Michelin-starred Lisa Goodwin-Allen’s cedar plank salmon is from her new menu at St James’s luxury 5-star hotel The Stafford in London. All dishes from the American Bar’s BBQ menu are cooked on Kamado Joe’s premium ceramic grills. Ingredients  100ml extra virgin olive oil 50ml sunflower oil 30ml lemon juice 720g salmon (cut in to 4 x 180g portions) 25g dill Cedar wood plank Method Pre-soak the cedar wood plank 2. Take a bowl and whisk together the olive oil, sunflower oil and lemon juice. 3. To the bowl add your salmon portions and the dill. Allow to marinate 4. When ready to cook, remove the salmon from the marinade and place on the cedar wood plank on your Kamado Joe. If possible, try to shift the coals to one side to create a cooler spot, this will allow the wood to burn at a slower rate The time to cook the salmon will differ according to the temperature of the BBQ and the thickness of the cedar plank. Therefore, we recommend that you use a probe and once the salmon has reached 46c remove it from the heat and allow it to rest for 3 minutes before serving. Claypot chicken Serves 4 1kg chicken thighs, skin on, bone in 2 tbsp vegetable oil 4 cloves grated garlic 150g ginger, peeled and sliced 50ml water Marinade 1 head (approx 10 cloves) grated garlic 2 shallots, chopped 3 tbsp vegetable oil 4 tbsp caster sugar 120ml fish sauce 2 tbsp ground black pepper 1 tsp sea salt Method In a large bowl, massage marinade ingredients into the chicken thighs. Cover and leave in fridge for an hour. Put vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed casserole pan on a high heat and add the crushed garlic and ginger. Toss until aromatic - it’ll only need a few minutes. Add the marinated chicken with all the juices and cook for a further couple of minutes. Add water. Cover with a lid and cook over a BBQ heat diffuser (creating a low heat) for about an hour.  Remove the chicken from the sauce and place skin side down on a rack over the fire. Allow the skin to crisp up beautifully, before adding back to the residual sauce as a glaze. Delicious with sticky rice, chopped coriander and spring onions. Blackpool Sands Cafe and Takeaway’s Firecracker Chicken Wings Down at the famous beach cafe in South Devon new head chef Grant Holloway is preparing lots of wonderful barbecue dishes for the summer season. Simplicity is key to Grant’s dishes, with the addition of herbs and spices adding a tonne of flavour, while sustainability and the environment are at the forefront of everything he prepares. 10 chicken wings whole Siracusa sauce Smoked paprika Honey Soy sauce Pepper salt Chilli powder Garlic powder Onion powder For the marinade, in a bowl add 100ml Siracusa sauce, pinch smoked paprika, squeeze of honey (more or less depending how hot you’d like the sauce) 2 tsp soy sauce, season with salt and pepper, pinch chilli powder and a pinch of garlic and onion powder. Add chicken wings and mix together, clingfilm and rest in the fridge for a minimum of 2hrs. Once ready to cook, place on the bbq and cook through thoroughly, turning regularly as the sauce can burn quite easily

The Mystery of the Flammable Rocks at Kilve Pill Beach There are two clues that show just how close a West Country Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty came to being destroyed by large-scale oil extraction. One is the forlorn brick building topped by an iron chimney which stands just behind the shore at Kilve Pill - the other is the curious fact that people who light barbecues on the beach often watch askance as the rocks catch fire. That is because so much oil is fused in to the shale. Light a fire on this part of the Bristol Channel coast and the rock really does crackle, explode and burn. A Historical Discovery: Oil-Rich Shale in the Bristol Channel Coast And it is a phenomenon that has been noticed before. Geological investigations carried out 90 years ago claimed the local rock was even richer in oil than the famous Green River Beds in Colorado, which at the time were believed to be the most oil-drenched shales in the world. The oilfield at Kilve was believed to be huge, containing no less than 10 billion tons of oil-bearing rock. National newspapers at the time carried headlines referring to a kind of Somerset Klondike… “Oil Romance of the West” proclaimed one. But… And in terms of one of the West Country’s finest landscapes it is a very big “but” indeed - it turned out there were problems when it came to turning Bristol Channel oil into gold…  The Challenges of Extracting Oil from West Country Shale: Expert Insights Fortunately for those who love the AONB and the British countryside, the problems have not gone away - at least, according to one leading expert in the field.  Here’s what Exeter-based Ramues Gallois geologist told me a few years ago when I asked about the oilfield at Kilve… “The first, economically insurmountable problem, would not have been the sulphur in the oil but the fact that the organic-rich seams are thin and occur within a succession of mudstones and limestones,” he said referring to the fact that early prospectors partly failed because of filtering impurities from the oil. “It would not be economic to heat all of these materials to the 450 to 500C necessary to extract oil - so one would have had to dig out large amounts of rock and then separate out the better looking organic-rich beds by hand.”  He said that when geologists talked of shales being “oil-rich” it could mean they contained just 2% to 10% of organic carbons: “So even after separation, much of the material would not be worth retorting.  “Having done the retorting - possibly at a cost that was 10 times the value of the product - what would you be left with? A shale oil rich in NSO (nitrogen, sulphur, oxygen compounds) that would have minimal resale value,” said Mr Gallois.  The Potential Somerset Oil Bonanza: A Look Back at the Excitement If only those prospectors had been aware of this on the Somerset coast back in 1920. Trial borings then led them to believe the oilfield was a massive 8000 acres - and experts worked out that this would supply a whopping five million gallons of retorted oil a year.  So excited was Dr W Forbes-Leslie, a leading oil expert, he declared the shale to be “of a class hitherto unknown in England”. Another expert, Mr Latrett Parking, said the find was “one of the most remarkable formations ever exposed to scientific examination.” He noted: “In an open grate it burns fiercely with a long flame. From this evidence it would appear to be rich in oil - I am not surprised therefore to find the chemist’s analysis giving yield of from 30 to 99.6 gallons per cubic ton.” The Railway Plan That Never Materialised: Bridging Kilve and Bridgwater Plans were drawn up for the building of a railway from Kilve to the port of Bridgwater. Oil experts were looking at an area seven miles long, extending one to two miles inland from the coast - that would have been quarried along high, open faces. The February 1924 issue of The Petroleum Times was beside itself with excitement. The editor put pen to paper describing the “enormous potentialities” of the Kilve shales: “That the commercial development of the shale deposits will lead to the establishment of an important industry in Somerset is a foregone conclusion,” he wrote.  It wasn’t. All that’s left of this excitement now is the old chimney at Kilve - and local folk will be hoping it stays that way.

Flat Holm Island: A Swashbuckling Adventure in the Bristol Channel Flat Holm Island, situated in the Bristol Channel between Somerset and Wales, offers visitors a unique blend of history and natural beauty. With powerful tides, whirlpools, and steep cliffs, this limestone island provides a thrilling journey for all who dare to explore it. Embarking on an Adventure to Flat Holm Island Our journey to Flat Holm began at Cardiff Bay, where the Lewis Alexander, a boat built to carry 45 passengers, awaited us. As we set sail, we faced short, steep waves that towered like 10-foot brick walls and massive currents generated by the second highest tidefall in the world. The captain of the Lewis Alexander warned us about the whirlpool that could spin our boat around, adding a sense of excitement to our adventure. A Rich History and Home to Seagulls Flat Holm, or Ynys Echni in Welsh, has a long history dating back to the Bronze Age. Over the centuries, the island has served as a refuge for Vikings, a home for religious hermits, and even the founding site of the Bristol Channel Mission, which later became the Mission to Seafarers. Today, Flat Holm is a Local Nature Reserve managed by the Cardiff Council as The Flat Holm Project, supported by the Flat Holm Society. The island is also home to a large population of seagulls, including lesser black-backed and herring gulls. Visitors during the nesting season should be prepared for these protective parents to screech, yell, and even dive at intruders who venture too close to their nests. A Swashbuckling Journey around Flat Holm Island As we circumnavigated Flat Holm, we discovered the remains of its human history, including the 90-foot lighthouse and the giant foghorn built in 1906. The island's isolation hospital, now in ruins, served as a testament to the island's role in treating sailors suffering from infectious diseases during the 19th century. The Flat Holm Project The team is working to increase opportunities for birds on the island, exploring traditional crops and sustainable methods of agriculture. The project has also focused on transitioning to greener energy sources, such as wind turbines. Ghost stories and legends of smugglers abound on Flat Holm, adding a sense of intrigue to the island's already fascinating history. Whether rowing over for a drink at the former hotel or seeking out the island's secret tunnels, there are plenty of swashbuckling tales to uncover on Flat Holm. Our return journey to Wales was smoother than our initial crossing, leaving us with fond memories of our adventure to Flat Holm Island. To learn more about Flat Holm or to plan your own visit, head to www.flatholmisland.com .

The Allure of St George's Island Join us as we journey to the small but captivating St George's Island, located a mile offshore near Looe. Steeped in history and brimming with adventure, this lesser-known gem offers a unique island experience for those who venture to its shores. The Island's Rich History and Ownership St George's Island, also known as Looe Island, is a 22.5-acre haven of rocky terrain, dense woodlands, and windswept heath, nestled just off the coast of Hannafore, a seaside suburb of West Looe. Resembling a tiny Cyprus on the map, the island's eastern peninsula points towards the English Channel, with a 150-foot hill and dense woodland providing shelter from the harsh western winds. The island's ownership by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust (CWT) began in 2004, after being bequeathed by the Atkins sisters, Evelyn and Babs, who famously bought the island many years ago. Today, the CWT continues to manage the island, focusing on making it more habitable, sustainable, and eco-friendly. Embarking on an Island Adventure I have visited Looe Island twice but on both occasions I went with a professional photographer, so I no longer have the images from those trips. Which why I’ve asked AI to come up with some views - all of which are strange and way off the mark - but they do give a kind of vibe of the place, strangely enough… Visiting St George's Island is an adventure in itself, with a trip by boat the only way to access its shores. Once on the island, visitors are greeted by enchanting woodlands, peaceful gardens, and the remnants of the Atkins sisters' life – a living museum of their remarkable existence. When I visited years ago we met Jon Ross, the island's warden, and his partner, Claire, who were the island's inhabitants at the time, living in a cottage near the sisters' old home. They work together to manage the island, fostering an eco-friendly lifestyle, maintaining the woodlands, and providing guided tours for visitors. Life on St George's Island: Meet the Wardens Between Easter and the end of September, the general public is welcome to visit the island by boat, subject to tide and weather conditions. A guided walk around the island can be arranged for groups of ten or more, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the island's unique beauty and history. Conclusion: If you're seeking a one-of-a-kind island adventure, St George's Island near Looe is an enchanting destination that should not be missed. Steeped in history and offering breathtaking natural beauty, this remarkable island is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who venture to its shores. The Allure of St George's Island: https://www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/loo-island-nature-reserve The Island's Rich History and Ownership: https://www.looeislandstories.co.uk/ Embarking on an Island Adventure: https://www.visitcornwall.com/things-to-do/attractions/south-cornwall/looe/loo-island Life on St George's Island: Meet the Wardens: https://www.cornwalllife.co.uk/out-about/places/st-george-s-island-looe-1-1636486 Visiting St George's Island: What You Need to Know: https://www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/visit/loo-island Conclusion: A Unique Island Experience Awaits: https://www.visitcornwall.com/places/looe

Steep Holm, an island in the Bristol Channel, is a haven for seabirds and offers visitors an unforgettable adventure. With its breathtaking landscape, rich history, and diverse flora and fauna, Steep Holm is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. A West Country Adventure Awaits Steep Holm provides a unique experience for those seeking an adventurous getaway in the West Country. The island's rugged charm, intriguing history, and welcoming community of volunteers make it a captivating destination. A Dedicated Community The Kenneth Allsop Memorial Trust, a charitable organisation, owns and manages the island with the help of dedicated volunteers. The trust aims to preserve and enhance the island's natural beauty, landscape, antiquities, wildlife, and scientific interest for all to enjoy. Steep Holm's Rich History From prehistoric man to Romans, Vikings, monks, and Victorian soldiers, Steep Holm has a diverse history. The island was fortified in the 1860s as part of the Palmerston Forts, a line of defenses protecting Bristol and Cardiff. Steep Holm's military past is evident in the gun batteries, barracks, and other remnants that still dot the landscape. A Botanical Treasure Trove Steep Holm is home to over 260 species of plants, including the wild peony (Paeonia mascula) and a unique variety of buck's-horn plantain (Plantago coronopus). The island's abundant flora offers a glimpse into its past and the influence of its various inhabitants. A Haven for Seabirds The island's thriving seabird population is one of its most notable features. With around 1,800 breeding pairs of gulls, Steep Holm is a lively and noisy haven for these coastal birds. Visitors during breeding season should be prepared for some spirited encounters with the island's feathered residents. Visiting Steep Holm For information on visiting Steep Holm and supporting the Kenneth Allsop Memorial Trust, visit www.steepholm.org . Steep Holm is a destination that captures the imagination and offers a unique adventure for those who make the journey.

Discover the Allure of Guernsey and Herm: Channel Islands Gems in the West Country Today's featured islands, Guernsey and Herm, stretch the term "Westcountry Islands" to its limit. However, they are included in this series for several reasons: Guernsey's proximity to the mainland, its long and historic connection to the region, and the fact that both islands offer stunning landscapes and rich history. Getting to Guernsey is easy with direct flights from Exeter Airport, a new daily service flying from Plymouth to Guernsey by Air Southwest, and regular ferries from Poole and Weymouth. Guernsey, the second largest Channel Island after Jersey, boasts a blissful treasure trove of country lanes, wooded valleys, empty coves, and wild windswept cliff-top heaths. Add in fabulous sandy beaches and endless historic fortifications, and you'll quickly understand why it's a popular tourist destination. Herm, the smallest of the archipelago's isles open to the public, is a mere mile and a half in length and a lovely half mile in width. A Glimpse into Guernsey's Rich History Guernsey's history is filled with intrigue and battles, from Neolithic settlers to Viking raids and the French and English fighting over control. The island's past is intertwined with that of mainland Europe, and evidence of that history is visible in its ancient fortifications and the remnants of World War II German occupation. The Final Invasion: A Peaceful Paradise Today, Guernsey offers a peaceful haven for residents and visitors alike. The island's low crime rates and attractive tax incentives make it a popular place to live. However, the local government faces challenges in providing affordable housing for locals, prompting the establishment of housing licenses and a dual housing market system. The island's political status is a topic of regular discussion among residents, with some advocating for complete independence, while others believe the Channel Islands should unite and form an independent federal state. Exploring Guernsey's Natural Beauty Visitors to Guernsey can enjoy the island's diverse landscapes, from the Haut Pas, the high southern plateau, to the Bas Pas, the low-lying northern region with its dunes and wide beaches. The southern coast is the wilder of the two, with cliffs and hidden coves waiting to be explored. A coastal footpath offers a stunning walk along the cliff-tops, taking roughly six hours to complete. A Tranquil Escape to Herm For even more tranquility, hop on a 20-minute ferry from St Peter's Port to the car-free island of Herm. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along sandy paths, visit the local pub, shop, hotel, campsite, café, and church, or relax on the picturesque sandy cove and the vast shell beach that stretches along the island's northeast coast. Herm is a paradise not to be missed. In conclusion, Guernsey and Herm offer a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique culture, making them must-visit destinations for anyone exploring the Westcountry Islands.

The Enigmatic Charm of Burgh Island, South Devon Nestled just 270 yards off the South Hams coast in South Devon, Burgh Island is a tiny yet enchanting retreat, boasting a luxurious hotel, cozy pub, and unique sea tractor for transportation. With a history featuring famous guests, film and TV appearances, and a touch of mystery, this island retreat is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Unravel the Mystery of Burgh Island Despite its proximity to the mainland, reachable by foot during low tide, Burgh Island retains a magical sense of mystery. The island's allure is not lost on the resident character and bartender, Gary "McBar," who talked to me a few years ago and who enthusiastically shares stories of the island's rich history and famous visitors. Explore Burgh Island's Unique Sea Tractor The iconic sea tractor, the only one of its kind globally, is an integral part of Burgh Island's charm. This unique vehicle, powered by an engine sitting high above the waves, can transport up to 35 passengers across the tidal bar separating the island from Bigbury and the rest of South Devon. Experience Luxury at the Art Deco Burgh Island Hotel The island's most famous landmark, the Burgh Island Hotel, has welcomed numerous famous guests, including Agatha Christie, Edward and Mrs. Simpson, and the Beatles. The hotel, built in the 1930s, has been beautifully restored to its former art deco glory by the current owners . Dine and Relax at the Historic Pilchard Inn Visitors can also enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the Pilchard Inn, an ancient pub believed to be part of a former monastery. The Inn is steeped in history, with stories of smugglers and ghosts adding to its appeal. Discover Burgh Island's Rich History and Famous Connections From its early days as St Michael's Island to its connection with the pilchard trade and smuggling activities, Burgh Island has a fascinating past. Agatha Christie found inspiration here, using the island as the setting for two of her novels, And Then There Were None and Evil Under the Sun. Experience the Magic of Burgh Island Whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat, a unique adventure, or a glimpse into the past, Burgh Island offers an unforgettable experience. With its iconic sea tractor, stunning art deco hotel, and rich history, this tiny island off South Devon's coast is sure to leave a lasting impression. https://www.burghisland.com/

The UK, often referred to as "The Island Race" by Sir Winston Churchill, has long been a nation of seafarers living on islands. Although mainland English residents may not feel that way, our European counterparts undoubtedly see us as islanders. For those living in the West Country peninsula, the concept of "island" takes on a more intimate meaning. We envision islands as remote, romantic places where life exists on a smaller scale – if there is any community living at all. The West Country islands, such as the Isles of Scilly, hold particular interest despite their small populations. The allure of these islands lies in their fleeting, ephemeral nature and the sense of adventure they evoke. Lundy Island: The Most "Islandy" Island Lundy Island, located 12 miles off the North Devon coast, is a prime example of the charm that Westcountry islands possess. The massive, isolated rock faces some of the fiercest tide races in Europe, standing sentinel over the Bristol Channel's second-highest tidefall. Derek Green, island manager for the Landmark Trust, believes that islands have always drawn curiosity from mainlanders. "As an island nation, we have the sea in our blood," he says. "You are never more than 80 miles away from the sea in the UK." Lundy Island attracts many thousands of visitors each year, who come to experience the island's unique flora and fauna, such as the Lundy cabbage, Atlantic grey seals, Soay sheep, Japanese sikka deer, and puffins. Additionally, the island is home to the UK's first Marine Nature Reserve and a no-take zone that has led to an increase in the shellfish population. Embracing the Island Lifestyle Living on an island like Lundy may not be for everyone, but for those who embrace the lifestyle, it offers unparalleled experiences. From watching dolphins and whales during breakfast to witnessing stunning sunsets from Old Light's lighthouse, life on Lundy Island can be a dream come true for those seeking tranquility and adventure. If a day visit to Lundy Island is an adventure, then an overnight stay – complete with a pint in the island's Marisco Tavern – is absolute heaven. Island Statistics Lundy is 12 miles off the nearest part of the mainland and some 23 miles by the supply boat MS Oldenburg. The massive chunk of granite is three and a half miles long by half a mile wide and at its highest rises 400 feet out of the sea where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic. The isle runs north to south, which means that its rocky perpendicular west side bears the brunt of most storms, while the east shore is more sheltered. Friends of Lundy The island has its own official fan club, the Friends of Lundy, dedicated to preserving and protecting Lundy's natural beauty. To learn more about the Friends of Lundy and the island in general, visit www.lundyisland.co.uk . My own view For me, Lundy is the most “islandy” island there is. Stuck out there 12 miles into the Atlantic from the North Devon coast, it has no near neighbours but stands proud and alone amid some of the fiercest tide races in all of Europe. It doesn’t mess about by being part of an archipelago – the massive three and a half mile long, half mile wide, lump of rock acts as one giant sentinel over the place where the Bristol Channel disgorges its second highest tide-fall in the world to a waiting ocean. The Landmark Trust’s island manager island manager Derek Green agrees with all these sentiments: “I think islands have always drawn curiosity from mainland folks – as an island nation we have the sea in our blood, you are never more than 80 miles away from the sea in the UK. “And Lundy is just the right distance,” Derek went on, warming to the theme. “You can make a day of it, but it is also far enough away to make it a real adventure as well. The boat trip itself is part of the experience – it’s 23 miles, so it is a couple of hours, and sometimes that’s no mean feat.” “Sir John Smith, founder of the Landmark Trust, said: ‘Getting to Lundy should not be easy - it should be a bit of an adventure to sort out those who try - so that those that have been here are a little bit different from those who have not’.”

If you're looking for a unique and breathtaking adventure, then a trip to the mountains in northern Corfu should definitely be on your list. Corfu is a beautiful Greek island, and while many visitors flock to its beaches and resorts, the mountainous regions of the island are just as stunning and offer a different kind of beauty and serenity. Northern Corfu is known for its rugged mountains, dense forests, and traditional villages that have remained largely untouched by tourism. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of activities to enjoy here, from hiking and mountain biking to rock climbing and paragliding. Hiking to the Top of Mount Pantokrator To start your mountain adventure, head to the village of Agios Ioannis, located in the northeastern part of the island. From here, you can hike up to the summit of Mount Pantokrator, the highest point on Corfu, standing at 906 meters above sea level. The hike takes about three hours, and you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can also drive up to the summit and take in the views from the comfort of your car. Once you reach the top, be sure to visit the Pantokrator Monastery, which dates back to the 14th century and offers a glimpse into the island's religious history. Exploring Old Perithia: A Step Back in Time Another must-visit destination in northern Corfu is the village of Old Perithia, which is considered one of the best-preserved traditional villages in Greece. The village is nestled in the foothills of Mount Pantokrator and is home to more than 130 abandoned stone houses, many of which date back to the 17th century. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. Rock Climbing in Sidari: A Thrilling Adventure For a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, head to the town of Sidari, located on the northwest coast of the island. Here, you can try your hand at rock climbing on the impressive cliffs overlooking the sea. There are plenty of local companies offering guided climbs, so whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, you'll find a challenge that's right for you. Unwinding in Traditional Villages and Savouring Greek Cuisine After a day of adventure, relax and unwind in one of the cozy mountain villages, where you can indulge in traditional Greek cuisine and hospitality. The villages of Peritheia, Sokraki, and Strinylas are all great options, with a variety of charming tavernas and guesthouses to choose from. Conclusion: A Unique and Memorable Journey to Northern Corfu's Mountains In conclusion, a trip to the mountains in northern Corfu is a perfect way to experience the island's natural beauty and traditional culture. Whether you're an adventure-seeker or just looking to escape the crowds and relax, there's something for everyone here. So, pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

While the hordes were assembling along some of Cornwall’s more popular beaches one hot day recently, I was elsewhere in the county watching gulls being lonely. There’s no place in the Westcountry where the wind blows so resignedly and unendingly as it seems to at Hayle. Whether it is the port’s faded industrial past that augments this haunted demeanour, or the forlorn look of the saltings - I do not know. But I rather like the soft, soothing melancholy of it all. The Mesmerizing Atmosphere of Hayle's Beaches and Saltings Of course, they’ve been busy at Hayle attempting to make the whole place look a great deal more posh than it appeared when i first came here to write up a walk 15 years ago. But the boundless expanse of sand which plays host to the estuary slinking through The Towans is still there - so is the screech of a thousand seabirds and the picture-postcard view of St Ives across the bay...  All these elements go to make Hayle a place of great and unique character.  Hayle's Evolution from Industrial Past to Coastal Destination In central Hayle you know you are close to the ocean but it is not exactly easy to spot. That’s because the tall sandy rumps of Riviere Towans get in the way. To find the shore you must cross the swing-bridge over the narrow gut that links Copperhouse Pool to the harbour, and follow the quayside as far as you can around to the left. This is the bit they’ve been revamping in recent times - and yet as I walked  along here recently the thought struck me that Hayle is probably still one of Cornwall's best kept secrets. The past may have left it a little scarred but the post-industrial, bypassed, harbour town is a good deal more interesting than some of the more quaint and touristy havens around the coast. The port probably enjoyed some sort of prominence way back in pre-Christian times - the name comes from “Heyl” which is Celtic for estuary. For centuries the passage around Land’s End was regarded as dangerous and travellers, such as the early Christian pilgrims en-route from Ireland to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, preferred to take the overland route from Lelant, on the western shore of Hayle Harbour, to St Michael’s Mount. Several things have changed the face of Hayle over the past couple of decades: the opening of the A30 bye-pass relegated the place from being a busy roadside town to coastal backwater; the massive, ugly, power station was demolished; and the equally unsightly quayside chemical works was made redundant. Finding Your Way to Hayle's Hidden Shorelines Make your way out to the narrow gap which has been cut by the River Hayle. The paved road gives way to a sandy track and, eventually, you come to a bumpy car park that overlooks the estuary. There, on the other side of the river, you can see the ancient church at Lelant tucked among its dunes, surrounded by men and women pushing golf buggies hither and thither. And out across the wide expanse of Porth Kidney Sands you can spy St Ives clinging to the hillsides that curve around its east-facing bay.  Exploring the River Hayle and Surrounding Landmarks Behind you there’s the most interesting and motley collection of beach huts and chalets you’ll see anywhere. They make a picturesque jumble and I hope that no busy-bodying, do-good local politician will ever be daft enough to have them removed. The high and mighty tend to hate scruffy places like this, but others like me would have preservation orders slapped on such areas of eccentricity.  The Unique Charm of Hayle's Beach Huts and Chalets Further around The Towans, the chalets get a lot more uniform and neat, but it’s the higgledy-piggledy ones I like best. Anyway, talking of going further around The Towans – that is exactly what we must do. I scrambled down onto the beach to make my way north west towards Gwithian. The great sweep of sand is one of the county’s finest big-beaches and my plan was to walk all the way up the shore to Gwithian.  Journey Along Hayle's Picturesque Towans and Beaches But it was a bit further than it looked and eventually, pressed for time, I found a public right-of-way that led right over the big hillocky swathe that is Common Towans. This brought me past Phillack, which is a sort of annexe to Hayle, and on up some rocks called Peter’s Point just to the seaward of Gwithian Towans. Next I began to take the footpath inland of the sand dunes, but realised it would take me to the busy coast road known as St Ives Lane and so decided to make for the National Nature Reserve otherwise known as Upton Towans. The zenith of these dunes is, for some reason, known as Jack Straw’s Hill, but I would doubt that has anything to do with the erstwhile Foreign Secretary. Exploring the Upton Towans National Nature Reserve Several paths wend their way through the dunes and you stroll along thinking to yourself that it is probably for the best the massive National Explosives Works are no longer here. Traces of them are, but manufacture ceased in 1919 - though various explosive materials were stored amidst the dunes in the 1960’s. Apparently this is a good area for glow worms (to be seen from May until September) but I was walking in the bright light of midday.  Eventually I took the path back towards the coast, before swinging left past the campsite to make my way south over Phillack Towans musing, as I went, over how the local mutton and wool raised in the dunes was renowned for its quality. It is reputed that a special breed of sheep grazed the tough marram grass and even ate the abundant snails which occur here. Appreciating the Rich Birdlife at Copperhouse Pool Reserve Making my way down past the church at Phillack, it was simply a case of turning right along Copperhouse Pool back to the harbour.  The creek is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and must hold some sort of record for being the closest bird reserve to a town centre anywhere. Look out of any shop window and you will at certain times of the year see up to 5,000 golden plover, along with little grebes, great northern and black throated divers and even rarities like the North American ring-billed gull - to name but a few of the reserve’s species. And now it’s back to central Hayle where, by the way, there is an excellent fish and chip shop under new ownership. You will find it half way along the terrace facing Copperhouse Quay and if the results we tasted are a true reflection of the normal fare, it’s well worth saving up your appetite during the hike.