A weekend in Falmouth meant a free day for my daughter Emma, and myself. We planned to visit St. Ives, a favourite summer holiday destination when the family were young. A light drizzle would not stop us so we drove to St. Erth station (day return, 4 pounds) to enjoy one of the most scenic train journeys in England, the track following the coast with fabulous views of Hayle Towans beach, Carbis and St. Ives bays, pristine beaches and blue grey sea.
The drizzle continued and so did we, from the station down to the sea for our walk,
following the coast round the town. First was Porthminster beach where we watched
holidaymakers determined to enjoy the beach regardless of the grey day. Well we are
British! The lifeboat station was next then the harbour dotted with fishing private, and day tripper boats. We continued to Porthwidden beach, stopping to take photos of
cormorants on a rocky outcrop before climbing up to St. Nicholas Chapel. A private service was taking place, a wedding? Such a tiny Chapel. Then across to the watch station and down to the rocks to watch the seals enjoying the crashing waves. Next was Porthmeor beach, our favourite beach all those years ago and a favourite with surfers. All the while we chatted about those past holidays, me telling Emma the stories I have stored and treasure.
It was time for lunch so we queued a few minutes for The Tate restaurant with it’s
great views over the beach. A delicious crab salad and we were ready to continue. By
now the rain was no longer a drizzle. We were getting seriously wet so headed through
the town making our way to the station, popping into this shop and that and having to
buy a brolly to keep our purchases dry.
Yes, we were wet, very wet, but what did it matter. We had had a great mother and
daughter day in a beautiful Cornish town, capturing wonderful memories and reliving
precious moments. Thank you St. Ives. Until next time.
