I really don't want to shout too loud about these little gems as I might not be able to get in next time if too many people find out! They are all run by hard working individuals who serve the most amazing homemade food. There are lots more amazing places to eat in the area which you'll find on our website, but these are the more little independent 'cakey tea' stops (those who've watched the Poldark parody on youtube will know the phrase!) that we've tried, tested and LOVE, but Shhhh don't tell anyone else!
Off the Path Coffee Company
Just a short stroll from Merlin Farm, through woodland and across a little river and you will come to this lovely little outdoor venue overlooking the tranquil and lush Valley of Lanherne. Perfect as a breakfast/lunch/cake stop if you are walking to St Mawgan Village, you can order your fresh fish and seafood here too! www.facebook.com/Off-The-Path-Coffee-Co-174281363288462
Carnewas
THE best cream tea in Cornwall - we think so anyway. About 40 minutes walk from Merlin Farm (that's me marching on focused on my cream tea, allow longer for stopping and taking in the breathtaking views along the way). Just before you reach Bedruthan Steps Beach you will see Carnewas Tea Rooms. www.carnewas-tea-rooms.co.uk
THE best cream tea in Cornwall - we think so anyway. About 40 minutes walk from Merlin Farm (that's me marching on focused on my cream tea, allow longer for stopping and taking in the breathtaking views along the way). Just before you reach Bedruthan Steps Beach you will see Carnewas Tea Rooms. www.carnewas-tea-rooms.co.uk
A terraced tea garden perched above the Gannel Estuary in Newquay with direct access via a little ferry to Crantock Beach. You can also buy Crab and lobster caught locally on their own fishing boat. www.fernpit.co.uk/cafe
Snails Pace Café
A charming little eco-friendly café at Wenford Bridge. We usually bike ride from the Camel Trail at Bodmin, stop and have lunch here then ride back again. They hire bikes here too so you can start off here and enjoy 18 miles of glorious cycling on almost traffic free trails for riders all the way to Padstow and the North Cornish Coast. www.snailspacecafe.co.uk
A charming cottage in the heart of Cardinham Woods, Woods Café near Bodmin never disappoints. A great food stop after a long walk or bike ride in the woods. www.woodscafe.co.uk
Rock Pool Cafe
A bit further afield down on the Southern Tip of Cornwall is this gorgeous little lookout over Mounts Bay, stumbled upon by chance on a lovely walk from Penzance to Mousehole one day. It's a good hour's drive (in low season) from Merlin Farm but worth the journey, and do walk to it from Penzance if you can. www.rockpoolmousehole.co.uk
If your café isn't on here it's probably because we haven't found it yet - give us a shout!
By Lucy @ Merlin Farm Holiday Cottages
