After a long train journey from London, we felt a weight lift off our shoulders as soon as our taxi passed through the gates of The Cornwall estate. Surrounded by 43 acres of parkland, the hotel and its Woodland Lodges are the perfect place to go when you want to unwind and get away from it all.
The best place to do just that is the Clearing Spa, which is home to a large heated infinity swimming pool, a fitness centre, sauna and steam room, along with several treatment rooms for everything from massages to manicures. We opted for The Ritual, a signature treatment that pampered us from head-to-toe, featuring a foot scrub, full body massage and mini facial. We left an hour and a half later utterly relaxed and barely able to keep our eyes open.
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The Clearing Spa at the Cornwall Estate
It was ideal then, that we only had a stroll downstairs for afternoon tea at The Elephant Bar and Brasserie, which is served daily from 12-5pm. On a summer's day this can be enjoyed outside on the terrace, however we stayed in the dining room to tuck into a platter of treats such as finger sandwiches, scones, fresh cakes and macaroons, all washed down with a pot of tea.
The restaurant offers an array of seasonal and local dishes, too, with a menu that draws in visitors from around St Austell and the surrounding areas. With everything from locally-caught Fowey mussels, Cornish crab cakes and Cornish lamb on offer, it's easy to see why it is so popular.
Afternoon tea at The Cornwall Estate
Should you be so inclined, you could spend the entirety of your stay at The Cornwall within the grounds, paying a visit to the Clearing Spa, walking around the estate or relaxing on the balcony at your room or lodge. However, the hotel also makes an ideal base for exploring the local area, with attractions such as The Lost Gardens of Heligan and The Eden Project just a short drive away.
If you have the opportunity, The Eden Project is well worth a visit to discover plants and trees from around the world, see amazing concerts and events, and if you dare, take a ride on England's longest zip wire, where you'll whizz over the attraction's iconic biomes.
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The Eden Project is a short drive away from the hotel
We also paid a visit to nearby Mevagissey Harbour and Charlestown, which you may recognise from Poldark. Many scenes from the popular show were filmed around the area, with the rugged coastline and traditional buildings providing the perfect backdrop for the BBC drama. With a number of independent restaurants serving fresh seafood, traditional pubs with uninterrupted sea views and picturesque coastal walks, it should be high on your agenda during your stay in the area. We're already plotting our return for 2018!