We have been busy hopping over our nearest borders from our home in Somerset in these past few weeks. Here are some of our favourite discoveries in our nearby counties.
Devon
The first of our half-term trips was down to Croyde to catch the sunset whilst enjoying traditional Sri Lankan flavours at the Downend Beach Cafe.
We never grow tired of the ocean panorama as you drive round to Croyde past Saunton.
The sand patterns on the beach at Saunton were also the inspiration behind this tshirt!
Shop the Saunton tee here.
Cornwall
We spent the half term down near Bude at Sea Grove Cornwall. Some of the favourite things we have discovered to do in the vicinity are listed here, which we hope may give you some inspiration if you are in the area.
Water
There are several beaches to visit in the area, including Sandymouth, Northcott Mouth, Widemouth as well as Crooklets and Summerleaze in Bude.
Whilst visiting them you can get involved in the 2 minute beach clean initiative established by Martin Dorey, author of The Camper Van Cookbook and also support the charity's work at the recently opened 2 minute HQ shop.
There is a strong community effort within Bude to protect the marine environment and water quality. The town are rightly proud of attractions such as the Sea Pool and work hard to maintain their beauty.
The sea pool was built in the 1930s to provide a safe environment for swimming for the people of Bude. This semi-natural pool, measures 91m by 45m and was created under the curve of the cliffs in a conservation area. It provides the unique experience of being in or on the sea, close to the ferocity of the Atlantic Ocean, but sheltered from its extreme effects.
Bude is blessed with waterways, there is also the River Neet and the Bude canal to enjoy. We can recommend a walk along the canal out to The Weir cafe and information centre at Marhamchurch.
Land
The town is brilliant for browsing some great independent shops and eateries. We especially like:
- ReFill Shop for those zero-waste essentials.
- Lucas and Rose - Fellow Thought stockists, also with a gorgeous range of organic childrens-wear.
- La Bocca - Proper Italian pizza!
- Little Pig Farm Shop - On the way to Kilkhampton, this is a great place to stop for a breakfast before leaving. I'm a big fan of the veggie smashed avocado, but there is something to appeal to most tastes.
- Om Bamboo - We love our bamboo based clothing at Olive and Rosy so this place is fab for discovering other products made from bamboo and other sustainable materials. The shop totally matches our belief that ethical choices can still feel luxurious.
- Underpine Charcoal - Traditionally made charcoal from a local woodland that is perfect for your outdoor cooking requirements. Pick up a bag in Kilkhampton or at Bellini's (see below)
- Bellinis - These guys were wonderful during lockdown, delivering hamper selections to Rachael's family for birthdays. Originally a cafe they pivoted last year to offer more deli produce. Perfect for finding products from Cornish small producers and also a fellow stockist of Baker Tom's organic bread!
-Wild Wood - Fair Trade home decor, lifestyle products and jewellery and a good place to find special little gifts.
There are plenty more great places to discover, it is very easy to wile away a day in the town.
Being down in Cornwall is a perfect opportunity to try out some of the organic clothing collection from EKO. Designed in St Just it is perfect for layering, which is just what is needed when exploring the coastline at this time of year with some days still a little cool and breezy and others warm.
Where are your favourite coastal haunts?
