The Tregothnan Shepherd’s Hut

A truly special part of Cornwall, the village of Coombe is just four miles from the capital Truro yet feels like a hidden sanctuary, situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Tregothnan Shepherd’s Hut is part of the Tregothnan Estate, and the team can arrange anything you require including a dining and foraging experience with Hungry Boy Thom Hunt (from £99per person), tea plantation tours, and boat hire. Rare plants have been nurtured by the same family at Tregothnan since 1334 and the first tea was grown in the UK in 1999, and the most British tea in history was first sold in 2005. Now, over 26 miles of tea bushes thrive in Tregothnan’s unique microclimate. Manuka bushes also thrive here, the first grown outside of New Zealand and produces amazing honey. To find out more about Tregothnan Experiences, click here.

The closest pub happens to be a very good one, The Punchbowl and Ladle in the village of Penelewey. You can walk it from Coombe (2.5 miles), or it’s less than ten minutes by car. Parts of this traditional, thatched inn date back to the 15th century, and visitors can now expect a large, bright dining space and bar area, outside terrace, private dining rooms and games room with a pool table. The delicious food menu changes frequently, dependent on the season and has something to tempt everyone. Dogs are welcome too, and there’s often live music playing.

If you’re looking for ways to spend your days, nearby is National Trust owned Trelissick, a welcoming 18th century house and garden set in an estate with stunning maritime views and lovely woodland walks, which is a must-see when in the area. Visitors will appreciate the enveloping countryside surrounded by the River Fal, there’s a historic park, woodland, and even an Iron Age promontory fort and 18th-century quay.

The King Harry Ferry is a ten-minute drive away. Established in 1888, connecting St Mawes and the Roseland Peninsula with Feock, Truro and Falmouth – this avoids the road alternative 27 mile route. One of only five chain ferries in England, King Harry Ferry departs every 20 minutes from each side, 7 days a week.

Falmouth is one of the main hotspots on the south coast. For art lovers Falmouth Art Gallery is well worth a visit, as it contains over two thousands art works, from pre-Raphaelite to British impressionists, including masterpieces by Gainsborough and Tuke. Plus, the award-winning Maritime Museum, which also has a pirate-themed play area for small children. They offer arts and crafts events, storytelling and crabbing! The foodie scene at Falmouth is epic too – gastronomy is worth the trip alone. Or you could try a wildlife cruise to see if they can spot whales, dolphins and other marine life?

There are good local golf courses within easy reach including Truro Golf Club and of course many sailing clubs throughout the Carrick Roads.