The Ends of the World

The magnificant St Michael's Mount

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Arriving in Exeter, the weather was foul. Quickly escaping into the shelter of our hire car (a nice lovely Focus) we made our way to Falmouth. taking in the desolate scenery of Dartmoor we stopped off for lunch at a beautifully old pub. Anyone over 5' 6" was made to look a giant as the roof overhangs and beams meant you were constantly ducking your head when standing up. Luckily we found a quiet corner by the fire and had a slap up meal. After all were fed and watered (or beered as in my case) we set off again, eager to get to Falmouth by sundown.

Arriving around 5 we checked into our cosy B&B and proceeded to check out the town sights.  Summer was long gone, as were most of the people in the town. Deserted doesn't quite describe it. Picture a wild west town with tumbleweed running through it....then take away the tumbleweed, wild west theme and the hot weather and you were left with a perfect representation of Falmouth on a Monday night. It was time to retire for the night.

St Ives and its spectacular harbour

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The next day was to be  our one and only full day whereby i could see some sights so we took full advantage. Setting off after breakfast we headed along the Cornwall coast - in my opinion one of the most beautiful in the world.  Arriving at the stupendous St Michael's Mount an hour later we stopped, had a coffee, let Jack  have a quick run and admired the view. The abbey is stunning! Set off the coast, separated from the mainland by the tide it is a sight to behold. I had been here previously but had forgotten how amazing the view across the water to the abbey is.

Next stop was Mousehole, a gorgeous little village overlooking the ocean. Think cliche fishing village and the picture becomes clear. Though in this case the cliche feel was good. This was what a small Cornish fishing village was supposed to look like. Onward we went until we arrived at Land's End. Very aptly named indeed. The wind was fresh to say the least but the views out to the Atlantic were invigorating. For afternoon tea we had decided to stop in one of my favourite towns - St Ives. This picturesque harbour town has always been a place i could see myself living in. One Cornish Pasty later we wandered the tiny streets until the hilly streets made us head for the car. It was almost time to head back to Falmouth. Not without one final stopover in nearby Newquay. Not what i remembered or imagined the main street seemed dirty and bland - i am sure the 'real' Newquay lurked underneath but we had little time to see. All in all a busy day but a lovely little drive around the rugged coast of SW Cornwall. Highly recommended.

Unfortunately, the remainder of my stay was taken up with teaching the students of Cambourne School of Mines the intricacies of our software. The nights were spent out at various restaurants and Jane did get to drive around and see such placed as Truro and Bodmin.

A nice trip and a pleasant stay.