Godrevy lighthouse and beach

The countdown is well and truly underway, only 3 days to go until we set off for beautiful Cornwall for the second year in a row.  Having not been to Cornwall since I was a child I was delighted by what we found when we went last year. The stunning blue sea, endless beautiful beaches and huge variety of countryside left we wanting more. Our favourite beaches last year where Kynance Cove and Godrevy, The Lizard was our favourite area. So that is where we are returning too. This time staying 10 nights between two sites rather than attempting another grand tour which was fun but very tiring. Our first stop will be Namparra on the Helford side of the Lizard and a 20 minute walk to Kennack Sands. This campsite has had some very mixed reviews but it also seems some money has been invested over the winter and I am hoping for a hidden gem…fingers crossed. Our second campsite will be Noongallas, closer to Penzance.  It is slightly disturbing to go somewhere that you can’t book in advance when you are so far from home but reviews are mostly good with an overwhelming sense that there is a laid back feel and beautiful countryside.  Plus a lovely woodland and stream – you know that makes me happy! As both of these are a slightly unknown quantity I have, of course, researched some alternative campfire campsites.  Just in case. Netley Farm – I love the look of this one though it is not really close to the coast. It has yurts and wild camping plus a newly installed shower.  Perfect Ash Farm – a very new, very small campsite with views of Mount Bay and St Michael’s Mount. There is a communal firepit and a hot outdoor shower. Lower Penderleath Farm – nr St Ives, offers some lovely peaceful camping in an area that abounds with holiday camp style campsites. Penrose Campsite – between Helston and Porthleven, within walking distance of beaches and Looe Pool, with great sea views. This is actually the one I would try first owing to its location. The Meadows – Nr St Austell (not near The Lizard) but a lovely spot under new management who have made a number of changes including introducing fire braziers and pretty close to a beach. (Please note this campsite has become adult only since this article was written) Pleasant Streams – Nr St Austell, a pretty campsite with a small lake and streams (of course).  They claim to have lots of space so a good back up option! To finish some top tips for camping in Cornwall in the summer.

• Get wet suits for the kids. No question,
• Don’t go to St Ives, Padstow, or any other tourist towns unless you don’t mind vast crowds and terrible parking. Save them for the low season!
• Get yourself a book like ‘Wild Guide‘ and be prepared to walk a little to a beach to avoid the crowds.  Search out the quieter spots, they do exist.
• Get National Trust membership, they own most of Cornwall, the car parks alone will almost repay your membership!  There are also lots of lovely NT places to visit like St Michael’s Mount and the NT is making a big effort to be much more child friendly with trails, challenges and play.
• Book to see a performance at the Minack Theatre, beautiful and unique. They have kids shows on during the day but I would advise booking in advance as they do get busy.