A holiday or mini break in Cornwall is much more besides finding yourselves the perfect accommodation to relax in. One of the best reasons for spending downtime in Cornwall is to enjoy the beauty of the unique natural environment. Fresh sea air, all the weather and so much to see and do. Here's our list of top things to do in Cornwall when you visit Fallen Angel.
Ancient ruins and history
Cornwall was originally a Celtic region and its history is fascinating and there are more clues from the past here from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages than in any other part of mainland UK. Likely due to its geographic location the Romans made little impact on the area. But later in the Middle Ages Cornwall struggled to come to terms with being seen as part of “England” (and at times still does today!). By the mid 18th Century Cornwall was very much aligned with the rest of the UK at the heart of the start of the industrial revolution with mining, transportation links via the GWR mechanisation of farming leaving evidence that can still be seen today.
We recommend taking a look at these amazing places:
Explore the well preserved remains of an Iron Age village dating back to between 400BC and 400AD. A wonderfully preserved late Iron Age settlement not far from Fallen Angel, it is cared for by English Heritage and is a must for anyone with an interest in the past and understanding how our ancestors once lived. This atmospheric and hugely evocative ancient village is one of the finest examples of its kind anywhere in Britain. The site is open between March and September each year and admission is free!
Chysauster Village
The Merry Maids, nr, Treen
This is one of the most complete stone circles in Cornwall, close to Treen and the open-air Minack Theatre, is one of the most complete and well known. It is thought to have been formed nearly 4000 years ago.
Known as ‘Dawns Men’ meaning dancing stones, legend has it that these 19 stocky megaliths were in fact girls who were turned to stone for dancing on a Sunday. In an adjacent field you can also see a pair of huge standing stones, the largest in Cornwall, called the Pipers, and one further away known as the Blind Fiddler - the petrified musicians who were providing music for the dancers that day!
The real purpose of the stones is not known for certain but it's generally agreed that it was some sort of community meeting place.
It's set just off the main road to Lands End in a field and free to access all year round.
The Merry Maids, nr Treen
Men-an-Tol, between Macron and Pendeen
Mên-an-Tol is unique. It's formed of a ring-donut shaped stone, with a hole big enough for an adult to climb through, is flanked by two upright standing stones with another fallen stone nearby. It is unclear what Mên-an-Tol was once used for. Theories range from it forming the entrance to a long-vanished burial chamber to being used in fertility rituals. Take a look for yourself and make your own mind up.
Across the fields you can see Men Scryfa, an inscribed standing stone. It is believed to mark the place of a battle was fought between the Cornish Prince Rialobran and an unknown invading army.
Outdoor dining and drinks
When the weather is good grab the opportunity to enjoy food and drink with a view.
We recommend:
A wonderful gastro pub with great beers wines and cocktails, plus beautiful lunchtime and evening menus.
The Old Coastguard, Mousehole
Relaxed drinks and dining straight off the beach. A great place to watch the sunset!
A choice if beach take away or fine dining indoors or on the terrace. A very special place to spend some time.
Don't forget that you can enjoy an outdoor BBQ of sundowners by the fire pit in the garden at Fallen Angel too. We supply plenty of coals and wood for your use, and snacks and drinks can be pre-ordered using Indulgence Catering's food delivery service. You can read more about this here.
Seafood platter by Indulgence Catering.
Runs from Mousehole
One of my passions is running, and so no blog about what to do when you're staying at Fallen Angel written by me would be complete without some running routes for you to enjoy. I love a run when we go away: it's the perfect way to explore any area in my view.
Sea adventures
Maybe you've enjoyed surfing or a SUP for years, or maybe you want to give either or both a try. So if you are looking for kit rental or kit rental and lessons these are the guys we recommend:
Paddle board or kayak round St Michael's Mount in the clearest shallow waters - ideal for beginners or experienced SUP riders.
Ocean High, Marazion
On wilder days this is a challenging spot for experienced surfers, on calm days the most picturesque place to learn to surf under Theo's expert guidance.
Kayak, SUP or surf - the choice is yours. St Ives coastline provides a fascinating backdrop to a sea adventure.
Marine Discovery, Penzance
Wildlife safari's with informed local experts providing a magical experience and an opportunity to learn about the water that surrounds our shores and those who live in it.
Fishing, bird watching, or wildlife trips are all available - jut spick what you fancy and enjoy a very different perspective on Cornwall.
Walks
Whilst it's tempting to limit walking to the beautiful village of Mousehole, strolling between excellent bars, cafes, restaurants and independent shops and galleries we'd encourage you to take full advantage of exploring the area by foot. Taking your time means you can fully appreciate the natural beauty of Cornwall through hotel changing seasons. These are some of our favourite walks:
Porthcurnow to Penberth Cove ( From Penberth you can take a short detour to The Logan Rock Inn if you fancy refreshments en route)
St Michael's Way - Lamorna to Marazion
For an extra -special treat we recommend a foraging walk and cookery (often outside too!) with Fat Hen Cookery School. It's an experience that will stay with you forever, plus you'll learn some pretty awesome things along the way.
Beautiful subtropical gardens
Cornwall has a climate that allows sub-tropical plants to flourish. Our garden at Fallen Angel is full of them! So, last but not least there are some amazing sub-tropical gardens to explore.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, Penzance
Trewidden Gardens, Penzance
Trengwainton Garden, Madron
To look at dates when Fallen Angel is available and prices take a look here:www.fallenanglecornwall.com