Postal Town: Saltash (PL12)
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St Germans' history dates back to the middle ages of Cornish splendour. It is now home to the Eliot family, the hosts of the annual Lit Fest, and some 2000 villagers from all walks of life, plus a good spirited chap called Dando.
©Shaun Harris
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St Germans, history and present-day details
St Germans is located in South East Cornwall, on the lower reaches of the River Tiddy that flows into the Tamar, out to Plymouth Sound.
The original Saxon church at St Germans was, from 926AD to 1043AD, the Cathedral church of Cornwall until the Norman Conquest, after which most of the church was rebuilt in Norman style in 1261. The west entrance of the church is perhaps the best example of Norman architecture in the UK. Following the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century, the Augustinian priory was bought by the Eliot family and was named, Port Eliot. Other important buildings include the 16th century Almhouses located on the north road entrance to the village from the A38.
Many villagers are aware of a spirit known as Dando that haunts Port Eliot estate. Some claim to have seen him. Dando may well have been a medieval Bishop that abused his position to become a huntsman. Aside from this, his more unsavoury delights were copious amounts of wine, food and good company in the form of loose women and drunken parishioners. Dando was rotund with fat, rosy-red cheeks, which matched his lifestyle. It was also what finished him when he was out hunting with friends one stormy day, a stranger came from no-where and satisfied Dando's greed for ale. The stranger then took Dando, his hunted quarry and his hounds with him to hell. Dando's spirited image has been seen on stormy nights.
St Germans was a busy fishing port. 2,800 people lived in the village in the 1840s and there are by comparison only 2000 people now. Right up until WW2, St Germans was a cargo quay for mineral, coal, limestone and timber, ending the era with road stone. Today, St Germans is a fine example of a Cornish village where very little changes. Built mostly of slate, quaint cottages line the one road that runs through the village in a horse-shoe fashion, under the bridge which supports the main-line railway to St Germans and the rest of Cornwall.
The Eliot Arms is a welcoming pub/restaurant and comfortable B&B. St Germans makes for a cosy weekend away from it all and the chance to explore more of Cornwall's delights. The Eliot Estate plays host to its annual Literary Festival (The Lit Fest), which is an extended weekend of creative fun and delights.
©Shaun Harris
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Boringdon Hall is set in its own grounds on the edge of Dartmoor. The hotel combines the charm and ambiance of years gone by with every modern comfort. There is character in abundance here with original architectural features retained such as deep walls, huge fireplaces and ornate ceilings. A variety of bedrooms, including a number of four-posters, are available. Dinner is served in the wonderful Gallery Restaurant, which overlooks the Great Hall.
Bedrooms: 41
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On the A390, just a few miles east of St Austell and a mile south of the Eden Project, this charming, traditional former coaching inn today offers free Wi-Fi and free parking. Originally built as a coaching inn, the Cornish Arms is now a cosy, traditional pub offering comfortable, homely accommodation in the centre of the village of St Blazey, adjacent to the parish of St Blaize. Situated on the A390, this traditional inn offers easy access to the region's major roads, making it a convenient base from which to explore the region. Free private parking is available for guests. The Cornish Arms is also on The Cornish Way, a cycle route that is part of the National Cycle Network. There is a walking and cycle path leading from the inn to the Eden Project. The Cornish Arms is a good local pub and has a fine reputation for providing great beers and satisfying meals. The restaurant offers tasty lunches and delicious dinners. There is a range of accommodation to suit the needs and budget of any traveller. Some rooms have en suite bathrooms and rooms with shared bathroom facilities are also available at great rates. All of the rooms have TVs and tea/coffee making facilities. Free Wi-Fi wireless internet access is available in the inn's public areas. A hearty, home-made Cornish cooked breakfast is included in the price.
Bedrooms: 12
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Within easy walking distance of St. Austell town centre, this large, family-run bed-and-breakfast guest house offers excellent value accommodation, free Wi-Fi and free parking. On the outskirts of St. Austell, Trevanion Lodge has a convenient location, within a few miles of the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Charlestown and many other mid-Cornwall beaches and major attractions. Situated just off the A390, the lodge offers easy access to the area's major roads. Free private parking is available in the guests' car park. St. Austell railway station and the town's main bus station are less than 0.5 miles (0.8 km) away. The lodge offers a range of accommodation to suit the needs and budget of any traveller. Some rooms have en suite bathrooms and rooms without en suite bathrooms are also available. All rooms have a washbasin and a TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Guests have access to their rooms at all times. Free Wi-Fi wireless internet access is available throughout the hotel. The private residents' bar has a friendly atmosphere and offers a good choice of wines, spirits and beer. A full English breakfast is included in the price. Various options, including vegetarian breakfasts, are available on request.
Bedrooms: 14
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Located in the peaceful village of Lifton, near the Devon/Cornwall border, this historic 16th century country hotel is well placed for visiting Dartmoor and exploring the surrounding area. Lifton Hall Hotel offers you distinctly styled accommodation that is complemented by a traditional village inn styled bar, and an elegant restaurant serving quality, locally sourced food. During your stay you can relax amongst this charming countryside setting, as you unwind beside real log fires, far away from the stresses of daily life. Located just 14 miles from Dartmoor National Park, the hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring Devon and its beautiful countryside. The village of Lifton lies at the confluence of the rivers Wolf and Lyd, and is surrounded by miles of Devon countryside. Easily accessible from the A30, the hotel offers good food, friendly staff and a warm and welcoming countryside setting where you will feel at home.
Bedrooms: 9
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Set within a 16th century coaching inn, this charming residence has been updated to provide first class accommodation on the North Cornish Coast, close to the traditional fishing village of Port Isaac. Listed in the Good Pub Guide, The Cornish Arms offers an exciting menu designed to offer something to suit all tastes. Due to it coastal setting, the kitchen boasts wonderful seafood, which is delivered fresh each day. To accompany your meal, the pub serves a host of real ales, which has earned them a placed in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2009. Displaying traditional slate floors, wooden beams and log burners, The Cornish Arms aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere, with old world charm. Run by Felicity and Jonney Hawkey and their loyal team, you are assured of a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Bedrooms: 7
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