I was visiting Waterstone Barn with my mum and hoped it would be the perfect place to spend some time together and really unwind. She lives on the Isles of Scilly and we don’t often get to see each other so we couldn't wait for this break away to catch up, relax and enjoy North Cornwall and its stunning landscape.
We drove along the winding country lanes, excited to arrive at our unique homestay. Driving through the rural village of Marhamchurch we became surrounded by rolling countryside all around and the seclusion of the area quickly became apparent. We arrived late in the evening but the owners had left the lights on and the log burner was lit to warmly welcome us after our journey. The friendly owners Chris and Jan were there to greet us which was a lovely personal touch and we really felt like guests in their home. Once we were shown around we made a light supper (using the delicious fresh produce Chris and Jan had left us - some they'd grown and reared themselves!) we began to unwind and settle ourselves in.
We awoke after a restful night’s sleep and mum rustled up some of her famous poached eggs (fresh from the hens outside) and we ate breakfast on the private patio. Chris and Jan have put so much care and hard work into the barn and it was immaculately maintained- both inside and out! After our lazy morning spent catching up on the latest family gossip, we spent the remainder of the day surfing (or trying!) at nearby Widemouth Bay which is just 10 minutes away. Waterstone Barn was the perfect place to come home to after a day in salt water, and a relaxing session in the sauna in the garden was the perfect remedy for us after the surfing had taken its toll. We agreed that dad should build one in the garden at our family home on Bryher as we could quite get used to living the high life!
Our final day was spent exploring the shops and beaches in Bude after which we enjoyed a tasty lunch at The Weir along the coast. This sweet little bistro overlooks a lake buzzing with wildlife! We picked up a leaflet which directed us on a scenic circular walk along the canal, passing ducks, groups of canoes and love birds enjoying a gentle boat ride in the sunshine. After our walk and long lunch we visited the farmers market to stock up on local produce for preparing our feast that evening. Chris makes his own sausages and bacon and he was kind enough to let us sample some of his homemade delights; the chorizo was our favourite! The evening was finished off with a gin and tonic in the summerhouse, the perfect way to watch the sun go down over the ocean in the distance.
