Top things to do in south east Cornwall this summer
For those who wholeheartedly embrace the countdown to Christmas (whatever their age), or simply want to sprinkle a little yuletide magic, then a visit to the sleepy little Cornish seaside hamlet of Porthallow is a must at this time of year.
For it is here, along the narrow, winding lanes, tucked away on the brow of the hill before the road runs on down to the sea, that you’ll find a very special place: Talland Bay Hotel.
Because nowhere does Christmas quite like this gold-award-winning hotel. From the quirky stone sculptures dotted around the grounds festooned with Santa hats, to the tables, trees and mantlepieces bedecked with festive sparkle. Not to mention the sumptuous seasonal lunches, teas and dinners and the cheery staff, whose excitement and delight is simply infectious.
Winter wonderland: The Talland Bay Hotel Christmas decorations
Put simply, Christmas can’t start until the Talland Bay Hotel decorations are in situ. A work of art conjured up by former Head of Housekeeping, Penny, who is now leading the hotel’s design efforts to make the bedrooms and public areas a feast for the senses...particularly at Christmas time.
Every year her tiny office takes on the appearance of Santa’s Grotto months in advance. It’s here that she plans and curates all the trimmings that make up the hotel’s inimitable Christmas decorations. Feather boas and beads, tinsel and baubles, cuddly penguins and golden mannequins come together to create a sometimes surprising but always spellbinding winter wonderland.
Guests return year in year out to see the latest magical manifestation.
Afternoon delight: Festive teas
Visitors keen to see the decorations can savour a little taste of Christmas too. The seasonal sorcery continues in the kitchen with the special festive twist on afternoon tea: succulent turkey sandwiches, mini mince pies and yule log, topped off with clotted cream, jam and scones. This afternoon delight can be enjoyed in front of the fire with a warming glass of mulled cider or fizz.
Christmas and Twixmas breaks
Christmas itself is an incomparable house party affair. Every little touch is taken care of, so that guests can truly indulge and relax. And everyone goes away having seen familiar faces or made new friends.
The celebrations don’t stop on Boxing Day; A Talland Twixmas escape is a popular option for anyone that didn’t yet get to put their feet up and be spoilt. The mulled cider is flowing, the larder’s fully stocked and the fireside sofas are tremendously inviting. Then there’s the coast path and beaches on tap for bracing walks.
New Year sees the hotel go to town with a suitably spectacular culmination to the festivities; with music, singing and fabulous feasting.
Missed out on checking in for Christmas 2018? Be sure to pop along for a festive afternoon tea and book now for next year!