Food

Top ten cottages for dining al fresco

As we head into warmer weather, all we want to do is be outside. Switch your dining room for the garden and choose one of our cottages perfect for al fresco feasting.

Classic Fodder Hannah Denby

Cornwall’s best fish and chips

Cornwall is renowned for its fish and chip shops, with fresh, locally-caught, fish. Here’s a guide to the best options in St. Ives, Newquay and other spots.

Classic Fodder Hannah Denby

The best pasties in Cornwall

You’re never far from a pasty shop in Cornwall, but which are the best in St.Ives, Newquay and beyond? And which makers create the best Cornish pasties?

Classic Fodder Hannah Denby

Top places to eat in Somerset

Make the most of all produce that Somerset has to offer during your holiday by visiting these well-recommended restaurants.

Classic Fodder Hannah Denby

In Search of Secret Shanklin

Whether staying in Shanklin or further afield, if you’ve come for a visit be sure to pop into these secret Shanklin stop offs.

Things to do Anmarie Bowler

Things to do in Burnham-on-Sea

The town has one of the longest stretches of sand in Europe with seven miles of glorious beaches including the beautiful locations of Brean Down and the famous Lighthouse spot.

Things to do Tasha H

Truro School Cookery

Join our writer, Kayleigh, on the pasta course at Truro School Cookery. Learn some new culinary skills and take a ready-made dinner back to your holiday cottage.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Activities for foodies in Cornwall

From the best places to eat to foraging for your dinner, these are the best things to do in Cornwall if you love your food.

Classic Fodder Abby D

Things to do in Brixham

Brixham is a beautiful harbour town with pastel houses clinging to the hillside. It’s a colourful town, rich with history and wildlife, perfect for family holidays or peaceful romantic getaways.

Things to do Philip Eley

River Cottage Food Festival

Celebrate River Cottage's 20th birthday this year with the annual food fair in May which is going to be bigger and better than ever.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Things to do in Mayfield

Set in the heart of East Sussex, Mayfield is the home of our South East regional office, some amazing places to eat and brilliant things to do.

Things to do Kayleigh Hardy

Breakfast at The Pink Cabbage

Grab a coffee and a salmon and scrambled egg bagel at this lush cafe in the heart of Mayfield. A local favourite, you won't be disappointed!

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Dinner at The Hurstwood pub

If you're looking for high-end dining with a relaxed feel, The Hurstwood is the embodiment of the Sussex pub experience. This gastropub is lush for a special night out while on holiday.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Things to do in Salisbury

Set in the heart of Wiltshire and boasting a wealth of history, Salisbury is the perfect stop off point, either to explore nearby Dorset and Hampshire, or to spend a couple of days soaking up some culture before heading further on down the country to your holiday destination.

Things to do Becky Bye

Things to do in Bude

Voted the Best UK Coastal Resort at the British Travel Awards in 2015 and 2016, Bude has lots of things to do. Visit for your holiday or simply a day out while staying in one of our Cornwall cottages.

Things to do Abby D

Philleigh Way Cookery School

An little taste of Italy in the heart of the Roseland peninsula in Cornwall. Join us for the Italian cooking course.

Things to do Rachel H

Fat Apples cafe, Porthallow

Fill your appetite after a long coastal walk with a bite to eat at Fat Apples on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall.

Classic Fodder Liz Arnell

GIN-spiration: South West artisan gins

We all know that one person who’s completely obsessed with gin. Here we’ve listed a whole load of gift inspiration (or ‘ginspiration’, if you will) for the gin-lovers among you.

Classic Fodder Sadie Phillips

4 cosy Cornish pubs with Hygge

Get your dose of cosy this autumn and winter in one of these Cornish pubs. Embrace the Danish art of Hygge with warm, comfortable places to relax.

Places to Go Abby D

Best Devon pubs for a Sunday roast

Give your weekend some sparkle with a day out exploring Devon topped off with one of the best carvery dinners that the county has to offer.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

The best pubs for a Sunday roast on the Isle of Wight

Our island team are clued up on many things to do with the Isle of Wight but we like to think that food is their speciality. We put together this all important list of the best pubs to eat a Sunday lunch for the next time you fancy a cosy winter warmer.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Food vans of south Devon

Culinary delights served with wistful views from some of Devon's most magical locations. Introducing some of our local food vans...

Classic Fodder Philip Eley

Top places to eat crab on the Isle of Wight

There's nothing better than fresh local seafood. Crab is possibly one of the most versatile delicacies you'll find on the island. Eat out or prepare a culinary spectacle in the luxury of your holiday cottage.

Classic Fodder Anmarie Bowler

Foraging in south Devon

Appeal to your inner hunter-gatherer and search for your own food in these foraging hot spots in south Devon.

Classic Fodder Philip Eley

Things to do in Tolpuddle

This ancient Dorset town is so tranquil and laid back, R&R is practically guaranteed so you can kick back and zone out. But if you like to occupy your time away, there are plenty of things to do in Tolpuddle.

Things to do Katie Chown

The ultimate summer barbecue guide

Nothing says summer more than the sizzle of a barbecue in the summer sunshine. We’ve put together our top tips to make your next barbecue the best one yet.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Classic and Cornish Food Box

We're more than happy to promote other like minded local businesses or 'Friends of Classic', if you will. Cornish Food Box is definitely one of them with produce delivered to the door of your holiday cottage across the South and West.

Classic Fodder Katie Chown

Places to eat in Ryde

Ryde has a great variety of places to eat so go ahead and treat yourself, after all you are on holiday!

Classic Fodder Liz Arnell

Places to eat in Falmouth

From fancy seafood restaurants to takeaway falafel vans, Falmouth is brimming with excellent food and drink to devour. There’s so much choice for restaurants, cafes and places to eat in this sunny seaside town.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

4 Vineyards in Cornwall you should visit

Whether you’re a self-confessed wine aficionado or have never tried a glass of Cornish wine, these are the places to indulge your taste buds for wine tasting in Cornwall.

Classic Fodder Abby D

Summer festivals in Hampshire

Summer is a time for festivals. Whether it be dance festivals, family festivals, music festivals, or anything else in between. Hampshire certainly has its fair share of them.

Things to do Kylie Barton

Top 5 Cornish cream teas

Five of our favourite spots to treat your taste buds to a Cornish cream tea. Just remember, jam first then the cream.

Classic Fodder Abby D

Spring Recipes for Easter

Things we like to eat around Easter time - staff recipes for blown eggs and boiled cake.

Classic Fodder Katie Chown

The Somerset Cider Farm

You can’t really go to Somerset and not visit one of the regions cider farms, now can you? Land’s End Farm in Mudgley is one of the best.

Things to do Kylie Barton

Things to do in Ryde

I hadn’t thought much about having a holiday in Ryde before I spent the day there but I was really surprised by what it has to offer.

Things to do Liz Arnell

Out to eat in Lymington

Charlotte and I decided to see if we could find a takeaway for dinner. Yes, there was a fully equipped kitchen to cater to our self-catering needs, but being so close to the sea, our hearts (and stomachs) were set on a fresh fish supper. So fish and chips it was to be.

Places to Go Faye

Places to eat on the Isle of Wight

There's nothing better than finding a new favourite place to eat and the beauty of a self catering holiday on the Isle of Wight is you have the choice of buying food to eat in or going out to a restaurant, pub or cafe on the island. Here's some recommendations.

Classic Fodder Katie Chown

Tempting Thai food at Ocean and Earth, Looe

I definitely had that ‘on holiday’ feeling whilst dining in Looe at this authentic Thai restaurant. It’s safe to say I’ll be back in Looe soon.

Classic Fodder Abby D

Dorset escapes

With the children back at school it is safe for the parents and grandparents to get out into the world unhindered; this might be the perfect time for a romantic getaway, just the two of you on a Dorset escape.

Places to Go Becky Bye

Cornish Christmas gifts

Be inspired by local makers and make your Christmas gifts a little more Cornish this year.

Visitors' Book Abby D

Favourite places to eat in Salisbury

Stop off on your way west, or have a day trip when on holiday in Dorset - there's lots of lovely places to eat in Salisbury to keep you satisfied as you explore.

Classic Fodder Becky Bye

Things to do in Buckfastleigh

Buckfastleigh is a small but charming market town on the edge of the Dartmoor. It is set in perfect rolling countryside, and has the standout attraction of the beautiful Buckfast Abbey; but there are many more reasons to visit this pretty town, so here is my guide to things to do in Buckfastleigh.

Things to do Philip Eley

Pizza and sea views on Fistral Beach

Pizza, cider and a sea view. For good food in Cornwall, The Stable in Newquay caters for everyone, from kids to vegans and it's right on the beach.

Classic Fodder Abby D

Things to do in Yarmouth

It’s a great place to watch the ships go by from Portsmouth and Southampton with sailing boats dotted in between with many a deli and cafe to while away relaxing days.

Things to do Liz Arnell

Vegetarian Restaurants Cornwall

Almost all restaurants, pubs and cafes in Cornwall have vegetarian meals nowadays and more and more are catering to vegans too. Here's some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants Cornwall has to offer.

Classic Fodder Abby D

Things to do in Tiverton

You can explore the whole of Devon from Tiverton, visit the contrasting coastlines of north and south Devon, as well as seeing the two varied moorlands of Dartmoor and Exmoor, so there are lots of things to do.

Things to do Philip Eley

A couple's day out in Bristol

Bristol is full of cute little coffee shops, artisan bakers, and unique eateries perfect for a tete a tete.

Places to Go Kylie Barton

Best cream teas in Devon

Which county started the tradition of cream teas, and more importantly, which county has the best cream teas, Devon or Cornwall?

Classic Fodder Philip Eley

Things to do in Wareham

Wareham is a beautiful old town with literary connections and a great place to stop to break up a long journey, or spend a few days if you are heading down towards the coast.

Things to do Becky Bye

Things to do in Shaldon

Shaldon is a fantastic village facing an attractive estuary with a small village charm but also a good range of shops, pubs and cafes. It lies in a sheltered valley and stares out at the larger town of Teignmouth which it is connected to by a bridge and a ferry.

Things to do Philip Eley

Things to do in Looe

Want bucket loads of seaside charm? Head to Looe! Whether you decide to base yourself here, or pop over for a day trip, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy here.

Things to do Abby D

3 family friendly things to do in Southampton

When looking for a family day out, what is it you look for? I think of fun, food, and a little bit of education sprinkled in for good measure. To get just that, you need look no further than Southampton.

Places to Go Kylie Barton

Top 6 dog friendly cafes on the Isle of Wight

A selection of dog friendly cafes to stop for a brew with a four legged friend in tow. Go for a long coastal walk and then call in at one of these lovely locations.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Food vans of Cornwall

Peckish? Stuck in the beautiful wilderness of Cornwall? Don’t panic. There may be a fantastic food truck just around the corner. 

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Woodfired at West

St Ives is home to some of the greats. It’s currently the home of one of my personal greats; the Woodfired Canteen team. Find out what the fuss is about at their latest pop up on Porthmeor beach.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Things to do in Seaton

With its pebble beach, easy-going vibe, and many interesting days out and attractions nearby, Seaton is a good place for a family holiday, a walking holiday or an activity holiday.

Things to do Philip Eley

A lazy brunch at Lounge in Truro

Don’t feel like you have to head there for brunch, I bet Lounge in Truro would be just as cool with a cocktail in the evening or a lazy early dinner with the kids when on holiday in Cornwall.

Classic Fodder Abby D

Things to do in Godshill

A pretty chocolate box village on the south of the island. Godshill makes for a quaint day enjoying cream teas and pretty pubs, it’s also a great base for walking out into the Isle of Wight countryside.

Things to do Kayleigh Hardy

Things to do in Bovey Tracey

Bovey Tracey is a welcoming town with many tasty cafes and restaurants. It is a great base from which to explore a lovely area so here is my guide to things to do in 'Buvvy'.

Things to do Philip Eley

Things to do in Portsmouth

If you're heading to the Isle of Wight on holiday, you may well stop in Portsmouth - why not make a day of it?

Things to do Kylie Barton

Things to do in Lerryn

Whether you’ve got a week or an afternoon to spend, Lerryn makes the perfect place for a spot of pottering. There are things to do in Lerryn to keep you occupied while you relax and unwind on holiday in Cornwall.

Things to do Abby D

Things to do in Beaminster

Dorset walks, places to eat and things to see and do in the unassuming but very pretty little market town of Beaminster, north of Bridport. It's worth a quick visit when you're on holiday in Dorset.

Things to do Katie Chown

Michelin starred restaurants on the Isle of Wight

With an abundance of fresh produce on land and sea, the Isle of Wight is perfect for chefs and restaurants who like to cook up a storm. Although no establishments on the island hold a star, here's our recommendations for amazing food.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Crabbing in West Bay

We swooped in and took over a vast expanse of sea wall with multiple seawater buckets, miles of tangled string, and a stinking bag of bacon, dried whitebait and squid. West Bay is a family favourite for crabbing competitions.

Things to do Emma L

Things to do in Dawlish

Dawlish is a seaside town in south east Devon with a gentle air of sophistication yet still a great place for traditional bucket and spade holidays. With both Dawlish and Dawlish Warren full of ideas for a fun break, here is my guide of things to do in Dawlish.

Things to do Philip Eley

Things to do in Lulworth Cove

If you’re after a coastal day out in Dorset, but fancy something a little more adventurous than Lyme Regis or Swanage, then Lulworth Cove is for you.

Things to do Becky Bye

Family things to do in Eastleigh

Situated just a few miles from Southampton, this small market town, has lots of hidden gems to keep you and your little ones amused for a day. There are lots of things to do in Eastleigh.

Things to do Kylie Barton

Nancarrow Farm Midsummer Feast

Join us for a sneak peak into the feast nights at Nancarrow Farm in Cornwall. A truly special experience to enjoy while on holiday in the county.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Things to do on Portland

On a day out in Dorset, Portland peninsula, which dangles off the south coast, has a surprising amount to do, so if you want to avoid the summer beach crowds in Weymouth, then head over to Portland for something a little different.

Things to do Becky Bye

Things to do in Swanage

A day out in Dorset would be far from complete without a trip to the seaside. Swanage is the best town on the Jurassic Coast for scenery.

Things to do Becky Bye

Things to do in Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot is a medium-sized market town, surrounded by great parks and beautiful countryside with access to great seaside one way and great moorland the other way. It also has some of the best parks and open space land you can find plenty of things to do in.

Things to do Philip Eley

Dog-friendly Cafes in South Devon

Our Cockapoo, Monty, has thoroughly tried and tested all of these dog-friendly cafes and restaurants and thinks they’re all Grrrreat!

Classic Fodder Philip Eley

A romantic day out in Bath

Enjoy all Bath has to offer – which is a lot! I will walk you through my choice of locations for a date day out in Bath.

Places to Go Kylie Barton

Duchy of Cornwall Nursery: Eat, shop and dog walk

Whether you’ve just been on a fantastic stomp around the Fowey Valley or you’re simply in the mood for a cream tea with a view, you have to check out the Duchy Cafe in Lostwithiel.

Classic Fodder Abby D

No 8 Cafe and Farm Shop in Bembridge

Stop by at No 8 cafe in Bembridge for vegetarian delights. From lunch dishes to cake and coffee, spend 10 minutes or 2 hours soaking up the ambience and this pretty spot.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

The best crab sandwiches in Cornwall

We’re pretty sure we’ve discovered the best places for a crab sandwich in Cornwall, so wrap your laughing gear around these and let us know if you’ve tasted any better…

Classic Fodder Hayley Spurway

Market day in Hampshire

Whilst on holiday in a Hampshire cottage you will be sure to want to stock up on local produce to sample during your time with us. I don’t know about you, but one of my favourite things to do as a couple is go to a good country market and a car boot sale. Such a day out is pretty much a relationship goal, it is so simple, yet so enjoyable.

Places to Go Kylie Barton

A couple's day out in Winchester

Winchester is the old capital of England, it is steeped in history, full to the brim with beautiful architecture, fine eateries, and quaint and quirky shops, making for a lovely day out.

Places to Go Kylie Barton

Things to do in Dorchester

For anyone who is a bit of a history buff and likes a bite of traditional English lunch, then Dorchester is a much needed mark on your Dorset map.

Things to do Becky Bye

Things to do in Cowes

Renowned as the sailing capital of the world, Cowes has plenty of restaurants, cafes and activities to keep you entertained on your Isle of Wight holiday.

Things to do Kayleigh Hardy

Seafood dinner at Muddy Beach in Penryn

Hidden in plain sight on the Jubilee Wharf at the bottom of Penryn, Muddy Beach cafe is a quiet river side haven to stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner while out exploring Cornwall. Take a look at what we tasted (and highly recommend).

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Things to do in Watchet

The pretty harbour village of Watchet offers a charming holiday experience in West Somerset. During the summer it is a hive of activity with the winter months in contrast proving a quiet and tranquil ambiance. For a little town, there’s plenty going on, so I’ve picked some of my highlights for a day out in Watchet.

Things to do Tasha H

Things to do in Southampton

On a glorious spring day last year, we did two things of note. We looked at the sky. Then we gazed at the sea. Then we enjoyed many of the things to do in Southampton that make for a great family holiday.

Things to do Jonathan C

Visit Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is one of the few places in the UK where you could get away with a relaxed approach to holidaymaking. From the centre of the Island you are never more than half an hour from the sea, and you'll find family friendly bays, beaches and coves scattered all over. There are lots of things to do on a visit to the Isle of Wight.

Things to do Robbie L

Things to do in Fowey

Set on the south coast, Fowey is a maritime lover’s paradise. The smart nautical town hugs the west side of the Fowey estuary, where deep waters attract sailing fans. The town itself is a mix of enchantingly narrow streets and a mix of architecture including historic medieval, grand Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Things to do Abby D

Things to do in Weymouth

I wonder if Weymouth is actually rather overlooked and under-rated, with visitors flocking more to other Dorset locations such as Bournemouth, but Weymouth has some brilliant hidden gems that I want to share with you.

Things to do Becky Bye

Things to do in Truro

Truro is Cornwall’s only city! Steeped in history, Truro boasts stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, an eclectic shopping scene as well as a range of galleries, bars, restaurants and clubs. You’ll find something fun to do whether you’re visiting with kids, on a romantic getaway or flying solo.

Things to do Abby D

Things to do in Newquay

One of the nation’s favourite seaside towns, Newquay is a fantastic place for a holiday. With a different beach for every day of the week, an emerging foodie scene and a packed calendar of events for the year it’s a must see location if you’re in the area.

Things to do Abby D

Things to do in Bodmin

One of the oldest towns in Cornwall, Bodmin is truly steeped in history yet has many modern conveniences to make life easy.

Things to do Abby D

10 best cosy country pubs in south Devon

The Danish have a word for the comfort and well-being of being inside by a fire while the weather outside is terrible. I’ve put together this list of South Devon’s best cosy country pubs for you to find your own Hygge.

Places to Go Philip Eley

Things to do in the Lizard

Explore the wild and beautiful Lizard Peninsula and revive the senses, before returning to your very own home-from-home in a luxury holiday cottage.

Things to do Lizzie Heather

Catering for Christmas with hampers

Food is always a tough one to get organised over Christmas. With most shops now delivering, go for something a little more local to add a touch of the west country to your festivities.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

Philleigh Way Cookery School venison recipe

A brief but beautiful recipe from Philleigh Way cookery school based in the Roseland in Cornwall. Perfect for making an impact on your guests for Christmas and New Year.

Classic Fodder Kayleigh Hardy

A day in Kingsand and Cawsand

Kingsand and Cawsand are twin seafront villages on The Rame Peninsula in Cornwall. They have a rich fishing (and smuggling!) heritage and you can still spot the old fish cellars and stores along the coast.

Visitors' Book Abby D

The best of the best places to eat in Dorset

Starting in my home town of Shaftesbury in north Dorset, we are incredibly lucky to boast no fewer than nine cafes and at least six great places for a wonderful dinner. There are however two which for me stand out above the rest and are worth travelling down to this part of Dorset especially for.

Classic Fodder Becky Bye

Lattes and lunch in lycra - a cycle in Somerset

While my husband now conforms to the current male phenomena that is a ‘MAMIL’ (Middle-Aged Man In Lycra) I’d describe myself more of a ‘leisure cyclist’ (I push my bike up hills).

Things to do Ali Ray

Sampling the River Cottage Food Festival

Itʼs not what you would call a ʻhugeʼ festival, but itʼs all the more special because of that. If anything it feels like a huge family garden party, if only I had that garden!

Things to do James Chubb

An American in Cornwall: The First English Coffee

While the British do drink tea in a way that Americans never will, they also drink coffee in a way that that most Americans never will. And that way is (dare I say this?) unquestionably superior.

Visitors' Book Danielle Charles-Davies

Foraging and Barbecue Fodder

Seaside or rural, find some food to stick on the barbie! Plus some extra treat ideas.

Classic Fodder Katie Chown