Guest Blog: Top 10 family daytrips from Coombe Mill Farm

My first guest blogger writing for the Coombe Mill site is Georgina from Gem Writing. She is a freelance copywriter specialising in marketing for small businesses and lover of North Cornwall so I was delighted when she offered to share her favoutite days out with us.  I have added our pictures to Georgina's copy as we agree with her selection and have been to many of these treasures too........


Here's what she says:


 Coombe Mill Farm is an idyllic base to explore North Cornwall. And with wild Atlantic coastlines, sandy surfing beaches and pretty coastal villages alongside major tourist attractions there's plenty to please all the family.

With so much on offer here's a list of ten must-do activities to take the pain out of planning.

1.     Sunbathe and sandcastles at POLZEATH BEACH.

Surf's Up Surf School where all 6 of mine go

Polzeath beach

At low tide this surfer's paradise offers up masses of golden sand. Polzeath is also great for sunbathing and sandcastles making it perfect for families as well as the surfing dudes. Polzeath explodes in the summer when the beach, shops and cafés become a hive of activity. For surfy things check out Surf's Up Surf School, and if you want some adrenaline pumping action try Cornish Rock Tors. Alternatively for a scenic coastal walk take the buggy friendly route to Daymer Bay or the more challenging trek to Pentire Point and beyond. 

1.     Lookout for dolphins on the Jubilee Queen at PADSTOW.

You can arrive at this picturesque working fishing port via the Camel Trail or the Padstow Rock Ferry. Stroll around the harbour and browse the plethora of interesting shops and places to eat. For lunch you can takeaway Rick Steins Fish and Chips or a Cornish pasty. And if you want to get on the water, a cruise on the Jubilee Queen is a great family treat (if you get really lucky you could spot dolphins). 

2.     Cycle the CAMEL TRAIL.

Join this popular cycle path at Padstow, Wadebridge or Bodmin and follow the easy going trail as it winds along the beautiful Camel Estuary. It's suitable for most ages and abilities. And if you don't have your own bikes, you can hire every variety imaginable. Even younger children can join in on tag-alongs, and buggies mean babies in car seats can enjoy the ride. Try Bridge Bike Hire.  

The last stretch of the trail arriving at Padstow

3.     Hunt out old fishing communities at PORT QUINN, PORT ISSAC & BOSCASTLE.

You could do these in a day, but children may prefer to explore the pick of North Cornwall's villages at a slower pace.

Take a picnic to the tranquil rocky cove at Port Quinn. At low tide kids will love exploring the exposed nooks, crannies and caves. And if the sea is calm, the cove is safe for a paddle or a dip.

The busy village of Port Issac of Doc Martin fame has pretty whitewashed cottages and narrow streets and alleyways to wander through. Explore the working harbour, browse the gift shops and catch a view of the fishing boats from a dainty café.  

Further north is Boscastle. Its recent floods are documented in the child friendly visitor centre located near to the medieval harbour. Other attractions include the Museum of Witchcraft. 

4.     Let their imaginations run wild at TINTAGEL

Legend tells that Tintagel is the birthplace of King Arthur. It's still home to the ruins of his castle as well as Merlin's cave. Pack some hardy shoes and climb the winding cliff path to the castle ruins to enjoy stretching views of the rugged Cornish coastline. Buggies aren't allowed so this adventure may be difficult for very young children. Other attractions include the Old Post Office along with interesting souvenir shops and various eateries. And when you want a rest The Cornishman Inn has a spacious play area and will keep children occupied while you relax with your drink.

5.     Enjoy the atmosphere at NEWQUAY.

Fistral Beach is the main attraction with its fantastic surf – but away from the surfing scene this laid back town has something for everyone. There's a youthful vibe and crowds flock for the thriving nightlife and array of water activities. Alongside there are plenty of attractions to keep the family entertained including Newquay Zoo and Blue Reef Aquarium. And nearby Watergate Bay is an idyllic expanse of sand so perfect for picnics and sandcastles

6.     Have fun together at CORNWALL'S CREALY.

If your kids are crazy for a theme park, Cornwall's Crealy is your nearest choice. With drop slides and mazes in the large indoor play areas this attraction offers all weather fun. The outdoor "Big Six" rides include some get wet ones so if it's chilly consider packing cagoules! What's more your tickets give entry for seven days, and if you visit in peak season there may be a children's character appearance.

The new ride at Crealy for 2011

7.     Experience other climates at THE EDEN PROJECT.

Where else in the world could you experience a taste of the tropics and the Mediterranean in one place? The Eden Project's iconic biomes and inspirational vision make this unique garden a holiday essential! There is something to inspire everyone from horticultural delights to delicious food, some of which is grown on site. In school holidays the Eden team put on some brilliant activities to inspire and entertain your children so check out their website for the latest offering.

8.     Watch the cows being milked at DAIRYLAND.

DairyLand successfully combines education with fun. Watch the cows being milked in the "orbiter", and browse the farming relics and rural history displays in the Cornish Heritage Museum. Kids will love the huge indoor "Bull Pen" (perfect for escaping the Cornish summer showers) as well as the outdoor play areas and pony rides. What's more your admission price includes 7 days of unlimited entry.

Our triplets when they were little enjoying Dairy land!

9.     Ride and groom the ponies at SPRINGFIELDS PONY CENTRE.

Springfields is great if you love ponies. There's a range of species waiting to be groomed and ridden including Shetland, Gypsy and Dartmoor. Away from the ponies children can run riot in the giant indoor play barn, take a ride on the Springfields Express or visit the farm animals. And the eight acre Old Quoit Wood is perfect for a woodland walk and local wildlife spotting.      

Bonus trip - Express your arty side at ST IVES.

If you are happy to travel for more than one hour, St Ives is worth the journey. The streets of this bustling seaside town are lined with the workshops and galleries of local artists. The Tate is worth a look even if you aren't a modern art fan, and there's plenty inside to inspire your children's creativity. Away from the art scene amble through the maze of cobbled streets, explore the working harbour, or enjoy a fun packed day on the beach. For something different children will love the stunning train route into St Ives. Take the First Great Western Train from Bodmin Parkway or St Erth.

Happy to travel for more than an hour? These are the pick of other further a field destinations.

St Michael's Mount │Lands End │ Paradise Park │Minack Theatre

If you have a small business and would like some help with copywriting you can contact Georgina via email - georgina@gemwriting.co.uk or follow her on Twitter @GemWriting.