
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 BowlerWhether 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 BowlerDo you like burgers the size of your head? With lashings of extras and big USA-inspired flavours?
Classic Fodder Abby DA pub and a restaurant in each county, as recommended by people who have eaten there!
Classic Fodder Katie ChownFancy a delightful cream tea? Want to know the best places to go in Cornwall? Read on...
Things to do Abby DThe 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 HJoin 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 HardyFrom 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 DBrixham 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 EleyCelebrate 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 HardySet 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 HardyGrab 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 HardyIf 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 HardySet 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 ByeVoted 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 DAn little taste of Italy in the heart of the Roseland peninsula in Cornwall. Join us for the Italian cooking course.
Things to do Rachel HFill your appetite after a long coastal walk with a bite to eat at Fat Apples on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall.
Classic Fodder Liz ArnellCelebrate the Cornish way at the Padstow Christmas festival this December.
Things to do Kayleigh HardyIf the winter weather is getting you down, try one of our suggestions to beat the blues in the South and West.
Things to do Kayleigh HardyJoin our writer, Kayleigh, on a cosy Saturday evening enjoying local seafood at the Oyster Shack in Bigbury, Devon.
Classic Fodder Kayleigh HardyA few suggestions for free food in the winter months.
Classic Fodder Katie ChownWe 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 PhillipsChristmas cottage holidays mean the whole family can gather round to enjoy festive celebrations in style.
News & Offers Kayleigh HardyGet 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 DGive 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 HardyUsing local ingredients, each of these pubs and restaurants make a tasty roast dinner to enjoy on your next Cornwall holiday.
Classic Fodder Kayleigh HardyWe’ve searched Somerset for the best places to eat a warming, hearty Sunday roast with all the family.
Classic Fodder Kayleigh HardyOur 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 HardyCulinary delights served with wistful views from some of Devon's most magical locations. Introducing some of our local food vans...
Classic Fodder Philip EleyJoin Lucy, our south Devon property manager, on a tour of her favourite places to eat in Brixham.
Classic Fodder Lucy MThere'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 BowlerAppeal to your inner hunter-gatherer and search for your own food in these foraging hot spots in south Devon.
Classic Fodder Philip EleyOh we do love to be beside the seaside! And what could be more fitting than tucking into a delicious portion of fish and chips?
Classic Fodder Sadie PhillipsThis 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 ChownEmbrace island life with a taste of Isle of Wight produce. These are our top five places to find fresh food on the island.
Classic Fodder Kayleigh HardyNothing 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 HardyThe reviews I’ve heard have been unanimously positive and they seem to be as well known for their veggie offerings as they do their meat.
Classic Fodder Abby DWe'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 ChownOur top 5 favourite places to eat on the west of the Isle of Wight.
Classic Fodder Liz ArnellRyde has a great variety of places to eat so go ahead and treat yourself, after all you are on holiday!
Classic Fodder Liz ArnellFrom 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 HardyWhether 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 DSummer 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 BartonFive of our favourite spots to treat your taste buds to a Cornish cream tea. Just remember, jam first then the cream.
Classic Fodder Abby DThings we like to eat around Easter time - staff recipes for blown eggs and boiled cake.
Classic Fodder Katie ChownYou 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 BartonI 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 ArnellFeed your imagination with food ideas for Valentine's half term.
Classic Fodder Katie ChownCharlotte 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 FayeGo for a waterside lunch in a creekside location near Falmouth in Cornwall, with great views, yummy food and it's dog-friendly.
Classic Fodder Abby DThere'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 ChownI 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 DWith 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 ByeBe inspired by local makers and make your Christmas gifts a little more Cornish this year.
Visitors' Book Abby DIf you love local produce, head down to Lemon Quay in Truro, Cornwall for the bi-weekly Farmers’ Market.
Classic Fodder Abby DStop 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 ByeBuckfastleigh 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 EleyPizza, 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 DIt’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 ArnellAlmost 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 DYou 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 EleyBristol is full of cute little coffee shops, artisan bakers, and unique eateries perfect for a tete a tete.
Places to Go Kylie BartonThere are plenty of good reasons to visit the magical tidal island of St Michael’s Mount, and the food is one of them.
Classic Fodder Abby DWhich county started the tradition of cream teas, and more importantly, which county has the best cream teas, Devon or Cornwall?
Classic Fodder Philip EleyWareham 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 ByeShaldon 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 EleyWant 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 DWhen 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 BartonA 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 HardyPeckish? Stuck in the beautiful wilderness of Cornwall? Don’t panic. There may be a fantastic food truck just around the corner.
Classic Fodder Kayleigh HardySt 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 HardyFollow your nose to the cult of curdled milk and sample the best cheeses in Somerset, home to the world famous Cheddar.
Classic Fodder Katie ChownWith 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 EleyDon’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 DA 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 HardyBovey 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 EleyIf 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 BartonWhether 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 DDorset 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 ChownWith 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 HardyWe 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 LThere are probably only four rules for eating outdoors: 1) keep it simple; 2) prepare as much as you can in advance; 3) add a little twist to a classic, or make use of an unusual cooking technique and finally 4) tin foil is your best friend.
Classic Fodder Rachel Wilson-CouchDawlish 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 EleySituated 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 BartonIf 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 ByeJoin 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 HardyOn 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 ByeIn the mood for something substantial for lunch, I decided to head to Samphire Brasserie, a 100% vegan restaurant in Plymouth town centre.
Classic Fodder Abby DA 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 ByeNewton 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 EleyOur Cockapoo, Monty, has thoroughly tried and tested all of these dog-friendly cafes and restaurants and thinks they’re all Grrrreat!
Classic Fodder Philip EleyEnjoy 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 BartonWhether 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 DStop 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 HardyLove food? Love a beautiful view? Then this list of 5 fabulous places to eat with incredible views is for you.
Classic Fodder Philip EleyWe’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 SpurwayFor 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 ByeYou can’t escape the sea when on holiday on the Isle of Wight, but head inland towards Newport and you can enjoy a waterside location that’s slightly less salty.
Things to do Katie ChownWhilst 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 BartonWinchester 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 BartonRenowned 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 HardyHidden 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 HardyThe 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 HOn 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 CThe 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 LSet 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 DA Saturday night to remember. Join the Lost Gardens of Heligan and Woodfired Canteen for a magical night of storytelling and incredible food.
Classic Fodder Kayleigh HardyI 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 ByeTruro 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 DOne 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 DOne 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 DThe 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 EleyExplore 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 HeatherFood 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 HardyA 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 HardyKingsand 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 DStarting 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 ByeIf you want to enjoy some good grub, we’ve got the Portloe list for you.
Pub Philosophy Lizzie HeatherWhile 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 RayDevon offers many amazing opportunities for visitors who want to try their luck with rod and reel, or simply a handline. Then there's the spearguns...
Things to do Pat KinsellaItʼs 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 ChubbWhile 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-DaviesEverything smelled like rain. It was a smell I hadn't gotten used to yet, the smell of rain in Cornwall.
Visitors' Book Danielle Charles-DaviesThere’s always at least one utterly perfect moment on every holiday that makes you want to catch it and keep it forever. I’ve just had one of those moments.
Visitors' Book Ali RaySeaside or rural, find some food to stick on the barbie! Plus some extra treat ideas.
Classic Fodder Katie ChownA breakdown of local food businesses in Bude that we think are worth a visit
Pub Philosophy Peter KirbyFeast on food and film this Autumn
Things to do Katie Chown