Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

ESCAPE THE FESTIVE STRESS AND OPT FOR THE PERFECT CORNISH CHRISTMAS

***NB A FULL IMAGE LIBRARY IS AVAILABLE - PLEASE CONTACT FOR MORE DETAILS***

Cornwall truly is a destination for everyone and the perfect retreat this Christmas. You'll find stunning colours, spectacular landscapes and a uniquely mild climate even at this time of the year. What better way is there to get away from the stresses of Christmas shopping, wrapping paper, turkey dinners and demanding relatives!

There's no better place to make the most of the Christmas break than Cornwall and now is the perfect time to book an idyllic Cornish retreat. Whether it's a private lighthouse cottage with loved ones or friends, or your very own castle or mansion for all the family, Cornwall has a unique selection of magical places to stay to make this Christmas one to remember.

For Christmas with a touch of romance try one of Cornwall's sumptuously converted lighthouse keeper's cottages which by their very nature occupy dramatic clifftop settings overlooking the wild winter sea. Build up your appetite for Christmas lunch with a bracing stroll along some of the most stunning stretches of Cornwall's coastal footpath with only the kittiwakes and seals for company. A Christmas day with a difference which is guaranteed to relax and revive even the most hardened Christmas cynic!

www.ruralretreats.co.uk

For families or larger groups, the impressive Bosloe House near Falmouth occupies an exceptional location overlooking the Helford River and with eleven acres to explore, nearby beaches and accommodation for 18 people, it's great for a sizeable family gathering. Bosloe belongs to the National Trust so visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for further information. Alternatively Trethurffe Manor, a 200 year old former farmhouse set in its own grounds of 5 acres is ideally located for exploring the rugged Atlantic Coast or the more serene south coast. With accommodation for up to 12 people, it’s another great way to spend a family Christmas.

Visit www.ruralretreats.co.uk for further information.

Take time out to relax and explore some of the world famous gardens of Cornwall such as Trebah, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Trevarno Estate and Lanhydrock House and Gardens. You will find secluded corners, beautiful expanses of woodland and tropical palms. Bask in the crisp winter landscapes and enjoy hot drinks and mulled wine in the historic houses and tea rooms. Visit www.gardensofcornwall.com for details of opening times.

The county has something to offer everyone. With some of the best beaches in the UK there's no reason why sand castle building and rock pooling has to be restricted to the summer months. Those seeking to unwind by touring the abundant selection of unique and diverse galleries in Cornwall can not fail to be amazed by the quality and range of works on show. The Tate St Ives will be showing long awaited exhibitions from both Janet Leach and Roger Hilton amongst others.
www.tate.org.uk/stives

With some of the best surf and extreme sports right on your doorstep in Cornwall there's no excuse not to squeeze into your wetsuit and brave the Atlantic waves. Perfect for thrill seekers, or those wishing to try something new in this stunning environment - maybe the start of a New Year's resolution!

For your truly Cornish Christmas experience ensure that you buy the best quality local produce. At Kingsley Village, Fraddon you'll find many quality products from local Cornish and South West food specialists. There's a butchers counter, fresh Cornish fish, deli cheese counter, bakery, fruit and vegetables and a huge selection of local ales, wines and champagnes. www.kingsleyvillage.com. You will also find a vast selection of local meats, cheeses, fresh vegetables, local ales and much more at Lobbs Farm Shop at Heligan. www.lobbsfarmshop.com

For more info on all the things that can be done in Cornwall, please take a look at www.visitcornwall.co.uk or call 01872 322900. You do not have to look far in Cornwall to find something new and inspiring, so why not see for yourself this Christmas?


Issued on behalf of VisitCornwall by Bray Leino PR.

For further press information, interviews or photography, contact:

Jemma Watkins
Phone: 0117 973 1173 / E: jwatkins@brayleino.co.uk

Notes to Editors:

This is just a selection of events and activities that can be enjoyed during a Christmas break to Cornwall. Both in the week up to Christmas and the week after, visitors - whether in small groups or large - will find an unending list of new things to experience.

If there's a particular Christmas wish that needs to be granted during the stay, a quick visit to www.visitcornwall.co.uk or speaking with one of the Visit Cornwall team on 01872 322900 will uncover more specific experiences to make this Christmas trip to Cornwall the best you've ever enjoyed.


Cornish Christmas food & drink:

Cornish food and produce is exceptional and, by sourcing, eating and drinking local products, you can have an exceptionally tasty Christmas as well as one that is environmentally friendly and good for the local economy.

10 Dec --- Brewed in Cornwall, The Rum Store, St Neot, Liskeard
10 Dec --- Christmas Food and Gift Fair, Trelissick Gardens, Truro
14-18 Dec --- Grand Christmas Market, The Piazza, Truro
14-18 Dec --- Christmas Food, Drink and Craft Fair, Lemon Quay Piazza
16-17 Dec --- Cornish Food and Craft Fair, Trelissick


Activity things to do:

What: Scenic flight or a Trial Flying lesson

Where: Perranporth Aerodrome

Background: Perranporth Aerodrome is the only hard surface private aerodrome in Cornwall. This large flying site is in a stunning location - some 350 acres sitting 330 feet high atop the cliffs on the magnificent North Cornish Coast, with the Coastal footpath running along its Northern edge. The coast here has been classed as a Heritage Coast

More info: www.visitcornwall.co.uk

What: Hire a Classic Car

What to do: Take a quintessential classic British sportscar around the unspoilt Cornish coast and countryside

Background: Classic Car Hire is an ideal holiday idea for the discerning visitor to Cornwall, and what better way to spend Christmas than taking to the wheel of a classic British sportscar. Ideal for those wishing to indulge in a long-held ambition to drive a certain classic car, or even en extra special Christmas present for a loved one. Visit gardens, historic houses and beautiful
sandy beaches by classic car between driving some of the best touring roads in the UK

More info: www.visitcornwall.co.uk

What: Have an adventure on a Quad!

What to do: A truly exhilarating experience for all of the family.
Background: The ATV Centre just outside Truro has the largest selection of 'Quads' and the best circuits in the country. The centre offers something for everyone from the complete novice to the more experienced. With a variety of quads and a selection of circuits the centre can cater for everyone from big children to children as young as 6.

More info: www.visitcornwall.co.uk

What: Head out to sea in search of wildlife

What to do: Brave the Atlantic waves on a magical discovery of the sea from Penzance Harbour to look for seals, dolphins, seabirds, porpoises...and many other types of wonderful marine wildlife.

Background: Whilst heading out to sea and waiting for the regular visitors to the Cornish waters, experience West Cornwall's wild granite coast and landmarks of St Michael's Mount and the Minack Theatre from the ocean and learn about its exciting heritage and history.

More info: www.visitcornwall.co.uk