Coast - June 2015 UK PDF

JUNE 2015 3.
99
PROPERTY
SPECIAL
WIN A
LUXURY
BREAK IN
CORNWALL
Find your dream home...
NEW BATHING
HUTS FOR
MARGATE
Discover our top...
UP-AND-COMING
SEASIDE TOWNS
From Northumberland and
Norfolk to the Ards Peninsula
50
COASTAL
HOMES
TO BUY
SOPHIE
CONRAN
On her love of Devon and Dorset
Celebrate great British

holidays with us
The Dunes, Mawgan Porth
kate & toms is different.Were a small, friendly company

with one big wish - for you to enjoy an extraordinary holiday.
In a hugely loveable cottage or a fabulous holiday home.
Were on the look out for extraordinary places, so do talk
to us about your coastal retreat.
Find us at: kateandtoms.com/coast

or call us on: 01242 235 151
24
CONTENTS
cover story
HOMES & PROPERTY SPECIAL

24
LIVING ON THE EDGE

How one couple combined Cape
Town design and a Glasgow
architect to create an award-winning
home on the Rosneath Peninsula
33 GET THE MODERNIST LOOK

Think clean designs, geometric
patterns and decorative accessories
34 RECLAIMED COASTAL STYLE

41
Inspiration for a shabby-chic home,

created with your own beach finds
COAST LOVES Put together
a relaxing rustic look by utilising
distressed wood and natural textiles
JUNE 2015
52
10 BEST UP-AND-COMING
SEASIDE TOWNS Yet-to-peak
locations with oceans of potential
59
50 HOMES TO BUY BESIDE

THE SEA From a stunning new-build
and a converted lighthouse to pretty

beach huts and a traditional bothy
70 MOVE TO The Llyn Peninsula
for a slice of the real Wales
76 LIVING THE DREAM Lesley Gillilan
talks to three couples who have
made the move to the coast by
setting up their own successful
bed-and-breakfast businesses
COVER PHOTO DOUGLAS GIBB
c o a stma g a z i n e .co.uk
3 CO A S T
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
JUNE 2015
FEATURES
82 HISTORIC HIDEAWAYS Transport

yourself to a different time with these
remarkable holiday rentals
86
SOURCED FROM THE SEA
How Dom Bridges fell in love with

Margate and set up a thriving
seaweed operation in the Kentish town
94 ART IN THE OPEN AIR The
enduring appeal of the Barbara
Hepworth Sculpture Garden in St Ives
98 WEEKEND IN Mumbles. Editor
Alex Fisher visits a charming village
on the edge of Swansea Bay
104 LONG WALK ROUND We talk to
Alex Ellis-Roswell, the man who is
walking the entire British coastline
in a bid to raise funds for the RNLI
59
86
108 TRY IT NOW: ROLLERBLADING

Hazel Sillver is on a roll in Brighton
coast PROPERTY SPECIAL
REGULARS
PICTURE THIS
Cow conservationists
11 BEACHCOMBER People, places,
events and things to buy
17
coast COMPETITION Win a
coastal stay with Beach Retreats
19 MARINE LIFE Maya Plass on the
natural wonder that is seagrass
21 WALK OF THE MONTH Laugharne,
Carmarthenshire
44 SUBSCRIBE TO coast And receive
Celestron Compact 8X binoculars
47 THE COASTAL WARDROBE Casual
layering and coast-inspired hues
113 CREATIVE CORNER We meet the
directors of DArt Gallery in Dartmouth
114 MAKE A DRIFTWOOD BOAT

117
118
119
120
122
130
4 COAST
How to craft a cute keepsake from

washed-up wood
TEST THE BEST Rucksacks
coast COMPETITION Win a
seaside break in Eastbourne
YOUR coast Get in touch by letter,
email, Twitter or Facebook
WHERE TO BUY Stockist details
SHORE SPOTTERS GUIDE Richard
Harrington takes a look at a staple of
the seaside crabs
MY COAST Interior designer, author
and cook Sophie Conran
co as t mag az i n e.co.uk
North Wales beautiful Llyn Peninsula has pretty

seaside villages and offers boating, beaches and
the best of British weather
70
words Lesley Gillilan illustration Tom Jay
CAN YOU
AFFORD IT?
Abersoch: 358.004
Pwllheli: 222,850
Gwynedd: 170,559
UK: 265,388
[MArch 2015].
AverAGe hoUse Prices: lA
l
soUrce: ZooPlA
UK
UK).
l .co.UK).
lA
(www.ZooPlA
WHAT YOU CAN GET FOR YOUR MONEY Here are some of our favourite properties for sale
425 ,000
335,000
345,000
PERIOD BUNGALOW
on the outskirts of aberdaron,
this old-style, dormer bungalow
offers three bedrooms and a
generous plot of land with consent
to build an additional house.
Beresford Adams (01758 649057,
beresfordadams.co.uk).
70 co ast
BEACH COTTAGE
this
his fishermans cottage (centre)
on the waterfront at Nefyn has four
bedrooms, beams, an inglenook
and amazing views. No vehicles,
vehicles
though access is on foot via the
beach. Fine & Country (01248
711999, fineandcountry.com).
fineandcountry.com)
2.95m
GARDEN IDYLL
at the foot of Llanbedrog
headland, pretty Forget Me Not
cottage has two bedrooms,
and nearly two acres of grounds
close to Warren Beach.
DREAM HOUSE
With panoramic views over
cardigan Bay, this architectdesigned home is set into rocks
on abersoch seafront and features
a sedum roof, four bedroom suites
and two sun terraces. Savills
(01625 417450, savills.co.uk).
crooked limb of land

hanging off the coast of
snowdonia, the beautiful
Llyn Peninsula has a lot in
common with cornwall. the
two places share the same
independent nature and island
mentality, a similar reputation
for mild weather and long sandy
beaches; they even share a history
of mining and granite quarrying.
on a map, it actually looks a bit
like cornwall,
ornwall, but Llyn (pronounced
Lleen) only 25 miles long is
a tiddler by comparison. Pwllheli,
the capital, is the only proper
town, and the peninsula is
thoroughly and proudly Welsh

(most of the locals speak the
language). a range of mini Welsh
mountains rises from its northern
shore: a hike to the triple summits
of Yr Eifl, the peninsulas highest
points, is rewarded by breathtaking
views of the Irish sea and across
cardigan Bay to the peaks of
the snowdonia National Park.
Below, fields of gentle farmland
dotted with Llyns own woolly
breed of sheep roll down to
coast m agazi ne .co.uk
aBoVE Yachts
on the River
Soch Estuary
in Abersoch
waiting for the
tide to come in
the peninsulas fingertips where

romantic Bardsey Island sits
like a full-stop off wild, lonely
Mynydd Mawr headland Waless
own Lands End.
With the nearest motorway
nearly two hours away it is, says
local resident Jayne Edge, a little
bit remote, but that doesnt stop
crowds of visitors piling into the
pretty seaside villages in one of
the sunniest places in Britain. they
come mainly from cheshire and
the cities of the northwest, and
they tend to head for abersoch.
the heart of the local tourist
industry, abersoch has it all:
cliffs and coves, sandy beaches,
a yacht marina, bars, bistros and
boaty fashion shops. the place
comes alive in the summer,
says Jayne. though some
prefer the winter when its quieter.
Jayne moved from shropshire
to abersoch to join her husband
Marco an anglo-Italian born
in Pwllheli. and the couple, who
have an 18-month-old daughter,
now run abersochs B&B
and restaurant, the Venetia.
they spend their time off on
a beach, in a boat or exploring the
peninsula: a drive up to Nefyn on
the north coast (a highlight is the
seaside hamlet of Porthdinllaen,
only accessible on foot); or down
coastmagazi ne.co.uk
15
PHotoGRaPH AlAMY
Move to...
the llyn peninsula
71 c oast
11
FO R A PA R T ME N T L I VI NG
TA K E N TO A NE W L E VE L
COME TO C A L A
Photography of Ilex Court
A luxurious coastal lifestyle awaits at this exclusive gated development. Just four exquisite, individually
designed 3 bedroom apartments, set in the leafy surroundings of this prestigious address.
Prices from 1,150,000
ILEX COURT, ETTRICK ROAD, BRANKSOME PARK, POOLE, BH13 6LG

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL 01202 983 478
CALA.CO.UK
CALA
H O ME S
5 star customer service 6 years running
CMMAY 5 stars awarded for customers willingness to Recommend to a Friend in ndings of the 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 surveys, undertaken by the Home Builders Federation (HBF). Prices correct at time of publication.
NEW HOMEs in poole
ADMIRAL HEIGHTS
H AV E N R O A D P O O L E D O R S E T B H 1 3 7 L H
Admiral Heights is a select new development of 3 contemporary four bedroom detached
homes offering excellent accommodation and finished to our award winning standard.
Located in the beautiful conservation areas of Canford Cliffs and Penn Hill, these stunning homes are
less than 1,000 yards from the shoreline and offer easy access to Sandbanks and Brownsea Island.
Each home provides the best of modern day living in the perfect setting.
SHOWHOME Viewing by appointment

PRICES FROM 1,415,000
TELEPHONE 01202 676 333
Best Small Housebuilder 3 years running
eds LETTER
WELCOME
ere in coast HQ we often receive letters from readers telling us

how they made the move from city to shoreline, having been
inspired by our magazine. Many of you spotted your dream home
in our pages, and are now living a new life in the salty sea air.
Advances in technology, such as the internet and social media, have
made it easier to run an international business away from a city, so to
celebrate this weve created our first Property Special. Here you can learn how
to set up your own B&B by the sea (pg 76), discover up-and-coming towns to
relocate to (pg 52), and browse 50 Homes to Buy Beside the Sea (pg 59).
Weve all chosen our favourite property, which one is yours?
In addition you can read the fascinating story of Barbara Hepworths sculpture
garden in St Ives (pg 94), find out about an exciting new seaweed business in
Margate (pg 86) and learn to rollerblade on Brighton seafront (pg 108). Lastly,
thank you to the thousands of people who filled in our reader survey last month;
an amazing response from our lovely coast community!
Id love to hear from you
to discover your perfect coastal pastime, your

favourite way to spend a day by the sea or just to hear your views on coast magazine. You
can get in touch via facebook and twitter, or email the team at coast.enquiries@kelsey.co.uk.
For any subscription queries please email coast.mag@kelsey.co.uk.
Keep in touch with us by following coast on twitter (@coastmag) and liking our
facebook page (facebook.com/coastmagazine).
THE CREW
THIS MONTHS CONTRIBUTORS share their coastal musings
EMMA INGLIS
Devon-based writer Emma

started out on London
newspapers in the 1990s
before training as a
psychologist. She recently
returned to journalism and
now writes widely for a
number of newspapers
and magazines on a varied range of subjects.
On pg 94 she explores Barbara Hepworths
sculpture garden in St Ives.
Describe your dream home by the sea
Its a white clapboard house, with a cedar roof
and shuttered windows. Inside, its light and
contemporary with lime-washed floorboards
and coastal-style colour schemes.
SHERYL
GARRATT
Since leaving her office

job in 2001, journalist
Sheryl has written about
everything from art and
fashion to food and sport.
She moved from London
four years ago and now
lives in Deal, on the Kentish coast. Read her
feature on Haekels, an innovative seaweed
product company, on pg 86.
I pretty much have it, but although were five
minutes from the beach, only the attic has a
sea view. We need to re-vamp the garden
our chickens have laid waste to it this winter!
BEN GOLD
London-based Ben
studied photography at
Brighton University and
has been working as a
photographer for eight
years now. He loves that
his job introduces him to
new experiences daily,
and he tries to escape to the sea as often
as possible in his Mazda bongo campervan.
This issue, he photographs the behind-thescenes happenings of Haekels on pg 86.
It would have floor-to-ceiling sliding doors,
panoramic views of the ocean and comfy
sofas!
7 CO A S T
coast SLUG
picture thisa a
COW CONSERVATIONISTS
PHOTOGRAPH NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES, IAN SHAW
White Park Bay, where this picture was taken, was one of the earliest stretches
of coast in Northern Ireland to come under the protection of the National Trust.
Covering 79 hectares, this areas varied geology ranging from ancient dunes
to clays soils and lumps of limestone deposited from the cliffs is home to many
rare flora and fauna, including frog orchids, thyme broomrape, dark green fritillary
butterflies and Northern Colletes bees. According to local area ranger Cliff Henry,
the cows, which belong to a private farmer, play an important conservation
role here: They graze behind the dunes, preventing them from being overrun
by brambles and scrub, which would otherwise smother the rarer plant life.
For more information, see nationaltrust.org.uk/white-park-bay
coast SLUG
Beachcomber
Every month, we trawl the nations coastline to bring you news of the
people, places and exciting goings-on that are worth knowing about
SHOPPING EVENTS PEOPLE PLACES CULTURE NEwS wILdLIfE
FIND of the MONTH

Table painted in Chalk Paint
Graphite and Provence
decorative paint,
6.45 for a 100ml small
project pot, Annie Sloan
(anniesloan.com).
SHOPPING EVENTS PEOPLE PLACES CULTURE NEWS WILDLIFE
CATCH
of the DAY...
Whats
floating our boat this month
1 THESE POUCHES
2 THIS BED
3 THIS PLATTER
4 THIS BAG
Available in zingy colours,

these fabric zip-up pouches
have multiple pockets to keep
small gadgets sand-free. Pair
one with a matching hammam
towel for a stylish beach trip
(25, sorbetltd.co.uk).
Do you love the look of a VW

Campervan? Then check out
this fab bed. Its available as
a single or a bunk, and you
can pick a painted one for
added colour (from 1,000,
funfurniturecollection.co.uk).
Perfect for welcoming the

alfresco dining season, this
platter will brighten up a
seaside barbecue. Pile it with
prawn skewers or smoky
mackerel to keep the fishy
theme (65, liberty.co.uk).
Eco-bunnies take note this

lunch tote is insulated with
nine recycled plastic bottles,
so its doing its bit for the
planet. It has a pocket for ice
packs to keep picnics cool too
(25, yourssustainably.com).
WHATS FLOATING YOUR BOAT? Let us know on our facebook page,
facebook.com/coastmagazine, or email us at coast.enquiries@kelsey.co.uk
PASTIES BY POST
STYLI
SH SEASIDE LIVING
Taylor Wimpey is currently
re-developing Bournemouth
International Hotel into blocks
of contemporary one- and
two-bedroom flats, and threebedroom penthouses with the
best sea views. With a cliff-top
location, just a five-minute walk
from the town centre, theyre ideal
for lovers of both town life and
coastal living (taylorwimpey.co.uk).
1 2 CO AST
co as t mag azi n e.co.uk
coasTHtE
BOOK OF
MONTH
SEAFARING FASHION
Think about that toggled duffel coat
or vintage blazer hanging in your
closet where did the classic style
come from? And why? Nautical
Chic discovers the origins of
todays fashionable wardrobe by
exploring five maritime professions:
officer, sailor, fisherman, sportsman,
and pirate. Amber Jane Butchart
looks at how seafaring fashions
have infiltrated everyday wardrobes
down the ages, and why iconic
designers such as Coco Chanel
and Vivienne Westwood have
adopted seafaring styles into their
modern-day collections. Nautical
Chic (24.95, Thames & Hudson).
PHOTOGRAPH DAVID GRIFFEN
Cornish-pasty-lovers rejoice:
you can now order online, have
them frozen for freshness and
delivered to your door. The
brains behind this is Cornish
farm shop Etherington Meats,
and its hand-made Trevethicks
Pasties can be delivered free
of charge to mainland UK
customers. Signed, sealed,
delivered, theyre yours!
(etherington-meats.co.uk)
TEN THINGS to do THIS MONTH
EDSICE
CHO
RUN A HALF
MARATHON
PORTREE
13 June
Don your running shoes
for the Isle of Skye Half
Marathon, which covers
13.1 miles across the isle
from Portree to Loch Snizort
and back. You can also enjoy
the beautiful scenery on a
1.5-mile fun run, ideal for
all ages (visitscotland.com).
ATTEND A BEACH FESTIVAL

BRAUNTON 19-21 June
An eclectic assortment of activities will

be descending on Croyde Bay for Goldcoast
Oceanfest this year. Expect musical
performances with a sandy beach backdrop,
as well as surfing, volleyball, football and a
beach aquathon (stayindevon.co.uk).
STEADY YOUR
SEA LEGS
PENZANCE
26-28 June
At the harbour-side Golowan
Maritime Festival, visitors will
have the chance to explore
traditional-style boats, sail
the waters of Mounts Bay,
discover new music and
sample mouthwatering
local cuisines (golowan
maritimefestival.co.uk).
PICK OUT
A PAINTING
PURBECK
23 May-7 June
Amid the creative hub of
Purbeck Arts Week, youll
find a seascape exhibition by
artist Cathy Veale showing off
her watercolours of the Dorset
coastline (cathyveale.co.uk).
SHOP AT
ARTISAN STALLS
RAMSGATE
13 June
The Ramsgate Handmade
and Vintage Fair takes place
beside the harbour. Think
rows of pretty jewellery,
textiles, beauty products and
ceramics, all crafted by Kent
makers (visitthanet.co.uk).
10
WATCH
BEACH POLO
NEWQUAY
26-28 June
COMPILED BY MADELEINE BARBER PHOTOGRAPH JAMES RAM
LISTEN TO
FINE MUSIC
ALDEBURGH
12-28 June
Founded in part by Benjamin
Britten in 1948, the Aldeburgh
Festival has long been
a popular gathering. This
year the programme includes
orchestral pieces, opera and
an art show on the beach by
Tracey Emin (visitsuffolk.com).
ENJOY THEATRE
BANTRY
24 June
Keep your eyes on the stage

for Chapterhouse Theatre
Groups performance of
Therell be plenty of horsing

around at Watergate Bay
for Polo on the Beach, where
professional riders will play a
speed-filled game. Youll also
find a beach-hut barbecue
(stayincornwall.co.uk).
The Secret Garden. Taking

place in the open air at
Bantry House and Garden,
its the perfect occasion for
a picnic (chapterhouse.org).
VISIT ISLAND
WILDLIFE
PEMBROKESHIRE
2, 16, 30 June
Take a day boat trip to
the islands of Grassholm
and Ramsey with an RSPB
guide to spend time with
gannets, puffins, porpoises
and seals. The afternoon
is free for you to explore
nature at your own pace
(rspb.org.uk).
MEET THE
AUTHOR
HUNSTANTON
7 June
Head to the family-owned
Briarfields Norfolk Hotel
for its second Bookfest of
the year with Kate Mosse,
author of The Taxidermists
Daughter. After the talk,
therell be an afternoon tea
with sandwiches and cakes
(briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk).
1 3 CO A S T
SHOPPING EVENTS PEOPLE PLACES CULTURE NEwS wILdLIfE
Add some colour to your plate with

this delicious dish
SquID wITH rOaSTED rED

pEppErS & OlIvES
Serves 4
3 red peppers
1 large squid
3 red onions, roughly
chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 birds eye chillies,
finely chopped
Olive oil
1 tbsp paprika
Pinch saffron
1 punnet cherry
tomatoes
Handful black olives,
pitted
1 lime, cut into
wedges
Handful parsley,
chopped
1 Preheat your oven to 200C/400F.

2 Place the red peppers on a grill or over a gas
hob or into a wood oven, and heat until the skin
blackens. When its charred all over, remove the
pepper, put it in a bowl and cover with clingfilm.
Leave for 15 minutes then rub off the skin,
before slicing the flesh into strips. Set aside.
3 Prepare the squid according to the instructions
on page 12 or, alternatively, ask your fishmonger
to do it for you. Cut it into thin rings.
4 Sweat the red onions, garlic and chillies with
a little olive oil in a saut pan until soft.
5 Add the squid rings and fry for a few minutes,
then add the paprika, saffron, sliced peppers
and tomatoes, and cover with water. Bring to
the boil, then lower the heat, cover, and place
in the oven for two hours until the squid is tender.
6 Divide between four bowls and garnish with
olives. Finish with a squeeze of lime and some
parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread.
1 4 Co ASt
Every month coast contributors recommend their favourite seaside

restaurants. This month, Ginny Weeks eats at Austells in St Austell
WHET MY APPETITE
In an unassuming spot above
Carlyon Bay beach sits Austells,
a lively fine dining restaurant run
by award-winning chef Brett
Camborne-Paynter. With its simple,
seasonal menu this delightful local
hotspot excels with a clever take
on modern British food.
WHATS ON THE MENU? After much
deliberation I chose three courses
from the winter menu beginning
with tasty home-smoked wild sea
trout, squid tempura, pea shoots
and wasabi mayonnaise, closely
followed by a hearty roasted rump
of Cornish lamb with Dauphinoise
potato, curried apples and green
beans in pancetta. I could just
about manage a pudding and
opted for the light and refreshing
cappuccino crme brle. No
wonder the locals come back week

after week with such delicious food
on their doorstep.
HOWS THE MOOD? Its fine dining
without the ego; friendly staff,
a chatty chef and a buzzy
atmosphere all make for a fun
experience.
CAN I SEE THE SEA? Not from the
restaurant but you are only a
10-minute saunter from the coast.
WHATS THE DAMAGE? the set
menu consisting of three courses is
27.50. Main courses from the la
carte menu start from 16.95.
OPENING TIMES WednesdaySunday between 6-9pm. Lunch is
served from 12-2pm on Sundays.
Austells, 10 Beach Road, Carlyon
Bay, St Austell, Cornwall (To book,
call 01726813888 or visit austells.
co.uk).
HIFindT THE
BEACH
the perfect combo of
coffee, cake and coast at the
Talland Bay Beach Caf.
Friendly staff serve locally
sourced pasties, homemade
cakes, Cornish ice cream,
and ethically produced coffee.
A recent refurbishment means
visitors can gaze out to sea
from the sleek interior or a
beach hut booth the ideal
summer Sunday morning spot
(tallandbaybeachcafe.co.uk).
RECIPE tAKEN FRoM THE HIVE BEACH CAF FAMILY COOKBOOK, EDItED BY RUFUS PURDY AND
SARAH MABER, PUBLISHED BY BRIStLEBIRD BooKS (16.99) PHOTOGRAPH CoLIN CRABB
DISH OF
THE MONTH
COOL CAF
MasterChef winner JAMES NATHAN on his passion

for surfing and cooking in Cornwall
INTERVIEW Alex Fisher PHOTOGRAPH Mike Searle
moved to Cornwall six years ago, but I grew

up in Bristol and used to come down to Bude
to surf all the time. I always wanted to open a
caf in Bude, but then I ended up training to be
a barrister and my life took a different direction.
I worked as a lawyer for a while, but I still
yearned to cook, so I entered MasterChef in 2008.
It was the turning point for me. Id never been in
a professional kitchen before, and although it was
stressful, I loved it. After I won, I worked for Rick
Stein for a couple of years, before I opened
my own restaurant, The Green Room, in 2012.
I still love to surf; its a great way to touch
base with nature and de-stress. Surfing is like
cooking, in that both activities are all about

being in the moment. You cant repeat that
particular wave or that particular meal it
needs to be experienced right now.
Cornwall is the perfect place to live if
youre a chef. When I lived in London, I was
disconnected from my ingredients, but now
our meat and vegetables come from the farms
and fields around where I live, and the fish
straight off the boats just a few miles away.
Im living in natures larder and its beautiful.
It sounds corny, but it is a dream come true.
To book a table at The Green Room, call
01637 882481 or visit retallackresort.co.uk.
1 5 CO A S T
make a beeline for new bodycare range coast

pretty packaging herself,
and three per cent of
the profits from sales
will be donated to bee
conservation. As well as
bodycare products, the
company also makes
scented candles, using
only plant wax, and offers
wildflower honey and
superfood pollen sprinkles.
Candles start at 8,
skincare products from 12,
and are manufactured in
Britain (beefayre.com).
BAG YOUR BREAD
Fed up of buying fresh bread

only to have it go mouldy at a
rapid rate? Then look no
further than these innovative
bread bags created by clever
crafter Helen Round. Decorated
with a hand-printed design,
they are made in Cornwall from
100 per cent linen (choose
your hue from natural, indigo
or raspberry) and bound with a
natural cotton tie, which helps
to keep your bread fresher for
longer perfect for soft artisan
loaves or home-baked bread.
(19.95, helenround.co.uk).
1 6 CO AST
CAMPAIGN
canoeing with care

WHATS THE CAMPAIGN?
Head to Hampshires Langstone Harbour
and youll find wildlife-rich, grass-trimmed,
salty mudflats. This RSPB nature reserve
receives flocks of over 10,000 birds to the
plains of its inter-tidal estuary year-round.
Think terns, gulls and wading birds in
spring and summer, and Brent geese
migrating from the Arctic. Its important to
ensure Langstone Harbour remains a safe
haven for British wildlife, so the RSPB has
teamed up with British Canoeing for its
latest initiative. Its new guide named You,
Your Canoe and Marine Environment will
launch on 6 May aiming to help canoeists
and kayakers do their bit for nature when
paddling through rocky crags and tidal pools.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
Some of the guides key tips include
paddling at a safe distance from wildlife,
never surrounding or blocking its escape
route and always taking litter home. The
guide also advises explorers to avoid
launching canoes or kayaks from banks or
beaches, as it may destroy nesting and
feeding habitats. Report any unusual
sightings to the RSPB wildlife enquiries
team. For a free copy of the guide, call
0845 370 9500 (rspb.org.uk).
Madeleine Barber
PHOTOGRAPH ANDY HAY/RSPB IMAGES
With the declining numbers

of bees hitting the headlines
in recent times, nature lovers
will adore Beefayre, a new
company making bath and
body products inspired by
the British countryside, with
the aim of encouraging a
diverse habitat for bees.
All the ingredients are
sustainably sourced, and the
skincare range is free from
parabens and sulphates.
Beefayre founder and artist,
Sharon Jervis, designed the
WIN A COASTAL STAY

IN CORNWALL
Weve teamed up with Beach Retreats to offer one lucky winner a threenight stay for four people at Watergate Bay on the north Cornish coast
ave you ever dreamt of staying in

a stunning house overlooking the
beach? Well, thats what youll be
doing if you win this fabulous prize. The
Beach Retreats eco-property is situated
in The Village at Watergate Bay, on the
north Cornish coast. With Jamie Olivers
Fifteen Cornwall restaurant, The Beach
Hut and Extreme Academy surf school
on your doorstep, its the perfect place
to relax in. Or you can explore the area
and visit Padstow, home to Rick Steins
restaurants, or venture further along the

spectacular coastline to St Ives.
YOUR ACCOMMODATION
The Village overlooks two miles of sandy

beach with each house having a modern,
open-plan living area and spacious
en-suite bedrooms, all beautifully furnished.
A private balcony, ideal for alfresco
entertaining, makes this a holiday pad
you wont want to leave. For more
information, visit beachretreats.co.uk.
HOW TO ENTER
Go to the competitions page on our

website coastmagazine.co.uk and
answer the following question by 29
May 2015: What is the name of Jamie
Olivers restaurant at Watergate Bay?
A) Thirteen Cornwall B) Fourteen
Cornwall C) Fifteen Cornwall
TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize consists of a three-night stay in a Beach Retreats property at the Village, Watergate Bay, Cornwall, with two bedrooms and a maximum party size of four. The winning party must agree to
the Beach Retreats standard booking terms and conditions, which can be found at beachretreats.co.uk/booking-conditions. The prize must be taken between 5 September 2015 and 20 May 2016, excluding school holidays
and bank holidays, and is subject to property availability. Beach Retreats reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of an equivalent or greater value. Entries close at midnight on 29 May 2015 and the winner will be drawn
on 1 June 2015. The winner will be notified within 28 days of the close of entries. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Entry is free. Open to residents of the UK aged over 18. Employees of Kelsey Media
and their family members are not eligible to win. Only one entry permitted per person, no bulk entries will be accepted. The first correct entry drawn after the closing date will win. There is no cash alternative and the prize is not
transferable. If any prize or product is lost or damaged during the course of delivery to the recipient, Kelsey Media will provide reasonable assistance in seeking to resolve the problem. However, it will not always be possible to obtain
replacements for lost or damaged goods, and in that event, no financial compensation would be payable by Kelsey Media or their affiliates. We reserve the right to cancel the competition, if circumstances change that are beyond
our control. By entering you agree to be bound by all the rules and agree that your surname and county may be released if you win. By providing personally identifiable information when entering this competition, you are agreeing
that we may use it to provide you with on-going information about our products and services, although you can unsubscribe at any time, if you wish to do so. coast is a Kelsey Media brand. Kelsey Media will only ever use your
information in line with its Multi Layered Privacy Notice. For full details, visit kelsey.co.uk. If you have any questions, please ask as submitting your data indicates your consent, until you choose otherwise, that we may contact you
about products and services that we believe to be of relevance to you.
BEST B&B
The Hoste, Burnham Market, Norfolk

WHATS THE BUZZ? Once
the watering hole of
Admiral Lord Nelson, this
17th century hotel boasts
62 boutique bedrooms,
a contemporary spa and
an acclaimed house
restaurant, retaining its
crown as North Norfolks
most desirable destination
for a weekend escape.
Its frequented by local
celebrities and sea-seeking
Londoners.
ANY LUXURIOUS
TOUCHES? Lather up with
Molton Brown toiletries
and then sink into crisp
Egyptian cotton sheets.
In 2013, eight of the 62
bedrooms were made
five-star, overlooking the
traditional walled garden
below. The Hoste chauffeur
service sees to everything
from collection from public
transport hubs to bespoke

tours of the royal coast
while intimate Private
Dining experiences, which
can accommodate up to
16 people, play out in the
ancient cellar.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS
LIKE? Spotless, stylish
and comfortably spacious.
Each of the bedrooms is
individually designed,
bringing original features
bang up to date with period
furnishings and lavish
fabrics.
BEST SEA VIEW? Walk
off supper with a visit to
Holkham Beach, just over
two miles from the hotel.
HOW ABOUT THE FOOD?
Some of the countys most
celebrated fishmongers,
farmers and bakers
contribute to an everchanging banquet of
modern fare served at

Hoste Arms Restaurant,
which has two AA rosettes.
Tuck into Brancaster
mussels, Cromer crab or a
Gressingham duck breast
served with vanilla creamed
potato, parsnip and lime.
But leave some room for
a hearty breakfast.
WHAT WILL IT COST?
Rooms start from 130 per
night bed and breakfast,
based on two people
LOST
AT SEA
When Jane Dolbys husband, a
A GRAND RE-OPENING
Mount Stewart, an 18th century house and

garden on the edge of Strangford Lough,
is set for a return to its 1920s glory this
month. The National Trusts 7.5 million
restoration project will reveal new
paintings, artefacts, and previously unseen
walled gardens. Pop to the glasshouse to
see Irelands oldest White Syrian vine, at
250 years old (nationaltrust.org.uk).
1 8 CO AST
fisherman from Leigh-on-Sea,

went missing and his empty
trawler was dredged up three
days later, she found herself
facing her worst fears. Her new
book, Song of the Sea, tells
a powerful and candid story:
Jane writes about love, loss and
how shes pooled together with
more than 80 women to create
the Fishwives Choir. The group
has helped to raise thousands
of pounds for the Fishermens
Mission, and her poignant book
narrates it in a beautifully emotive
read (orionbooks.co.uk).
sharing. The Hoste, The

Green, Burnham Market,
Norfolk, PE31 8HD (01328
738777, thehoste.com,
visitnorthnorfolk.com)
Jessica Johnson
coast COLUMN
MARINE
coasts columnist Maya Plass heads underwater to
Mayas passion for the

nations coastline was
born out of a childhood
spent by the sea, where
her fascination with
rockpooling evolved into
a career as a marine
ecologist and author. She
has made her home on
the Devon coastline with
her family, where she
spends her days diving,
kayaking and educating
school children on the
wonders of the sea.
discover the fascinating world of seagrass and the sea

creatures that live between its blades ILLUSTRATION Rosie Scott
iving in a seagrass bed is like skipping

through a flower-filled meadow on
a glorious summers day. In fact, the long
green blades of seagrass are the only example
of a flowering plant that lives in the sea. The
sight of the blades swaying in the gentle tidal
movements with the suns rays lighting up the
verdant green is mesmerising.
FULL OF LIFE
These marine meadows are home to the
much-beloved seahorses found in our British
waters. Hopefully, I might see one curling
its prehensile tail around the seagrass. The
seagrass beds are also where a huge variety
of species come to breed and lay their eggs.
Hermaphroditic (both male and female) sea
hares will congregate in the shallows and create
mating chains leaving spaghetti string eggs
on the seagrass. Cuttlefish also lay their black
cluster of grape-like
eggs here, as will
many other smaller
molluscs such as
netted dog whelks.
Seagrass is also
important for small,
juvenile fish, which
hide among it before
The sight of the SEAGRASS

BLADES SWAYING IN THE
TIDAL MOVEMENTS with the
suns rays LIGHTING UP THE
GREEN is mesmerising
they grow into delicious, commercially caught

fish. As I scrutinise the blades when Im
diving I also find small, stalked jellyfish attached
to the blades like a gelatinous flower. There is
so much to see and discover in the seagrass.
COMBATTING CARBON
We hear about how forests are important
for absorbing carbon dioxide but actually
seagrass meadows absorb far more than
forests. They can store 83,000 metric tonnes
of carbon per square kilometre, compared
to a mere 30,000 in a terrestrial forest of the
same size. They store that carbon for much
longer than the woodland, too. Seagrass
beds are both beautiful and important for
a wide variety of sea creatures, and for our
global health as a carbon sink. This is why
seagrass beds, such as the ones found in
Studland, need protection.
Unfortunately, we are destroying these habitats
at a fast rate due to pollution, anchoring and
invasive species. This year, I will be helping
with the Community Seagrass Initiative here
in the southwest of England, not only to raise
awareness of seagrass beds, but also to help
survey them. Im very much looking forward
to diving the seagrass beds some more and
recording the creatures found there.
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HOT HOTEL
YNYSHIR HALL, POWYS, WALES
FLASH, BANG, WALLOP!
What a picture: this months reader snap
~ 1962 ~
WHATS THE BUZZ? This

unique hotel and restaurant
won the AA Hotel of the Year
in Wales for 2014-2015, as
well as two titles in the
National Tourism Awards for
Wales 2015. Previous guests
include Richard Gere and
Robert Plant. Set in tranquil
countryside, surrounded by bird reserves and just a couple
of miles from the sea, this is a very special place to stay.
ANY LUXURIOUS TOUCHES? The entire hotel exudes a
luxurious, yet relaxed and friendly, air. Owners Rob and Joan
Reen are often on hand to welcome guests and talk through
the unusual menu in the lounge. There isnt a spa, but there is
a Holistic Wellness Centre, where visitors can have anything
from a deep tissue massage to a Qi Gong or Tai Chi session.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? Spacious and elegant,
contemporary but with colourful touches.
BEST SEA VIEW? You cant see the sea, but the views of
the surrounding countryside are breath-taking.
HOW ABOUT THE FOOD? Ynyshir Hall was awarded a
well-earned Michelin Star under new head chef Gareth Ward
last year. This is the fourth time it has received a Michelin
Star under different chefs. Using the best locally produced
and foraged ingredients, they offer inventive delights, which
a simple reading of the menu salt baked hogget, walnut
whip will not convey. You can eat lunch for 35 for five
delicate courses or stay for an 11-course dinner for 90.
WHAT WILL IT COST? Rooms are from 230 including
breakfast, or dinner, bed and breakfast is from 365.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call 01654 781209 or visit ynyshirhall.co.uk
Alex Fisher
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Coast reader Karen Bishop sent us this comical

snap of herself, around three years old, and her nana
and granddad at Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex. They had
great fun building sandcastles that summer such happy
days and lovely memories! she says.
BARNABAS AROUND BRITAIN
Setting off from Penzance on 27 June, Captain

Peter Morgan plans to sail a 134-year-old
lugger around the British Isles. The boat,
Barnabas, will sail in the wake of the Cornish
drift-net fishing fleet of the 19th and early 20th
centuries. Shell travel 10 week-long sectors
clockwise around Britain, even floating as far
as Baltasound on the Shetland Islands. The
Cornish Maritime Trust is recruiting crew for
this seafaring venture, so if youd like to get
involved, you can find more information at
cornishmaritimetrust.org.
WALK of the MONTH

From the town where Dylan Thomas lived, up over Sir Johns Hill, and then
around to his Boathouse home on the Taf Estuary BY Christopher Somerville
WHILE YOU
ARE THERE
Delacorse
MAP BASED ON ORDNANCE SURVEY MAPPING CROWN COPYRIGHT 2015 ORDNANCE SURVEY MEDIA. THIS MAP IS A GUIDE ONLY PHOTOGRAPHS ALAMY
HIGHLIGHTS?
DYLAN THOMASS BOATHOU
EXHIBITION AND WRITING SE
SHED; TOWN TRAIL
FOR THE KIDS?
LAUGHARNE
CASTLE
Church
car park
START
Boathouse
Laugharne
Castle
Broadway
RIVER TAF
Sir Johns Hill
NEED TO KNOW
GETTING THERE: Bus
222, Carmarthen-Pendine.
Road: Laugharne is on A4066
(signed from St Clears on A40).
LANDSCAPE:
Streets
of Laugharne, coastal
woodlands and estuary.
REFUELLING OPTIONS:
LAUGHARNE, CARMARTHENSHIRE (Wales)

DISTANCE 6 MILES TIME 3 HOURS DIFFICULTY
STARTING POINT
From the church

car park follow the
Town Trail (downloadable
at discovercarmarthenshire.
com/dylan-thomas) through
Laugharne and down to the
big jagged ruin of Laugharne
Castle (right).
by water praying and call

of seagull and rook/And
the knock of sailing boats
on the net webbed wall.
The wooded path climbs
high above Laugharnes
saltmarshes, with great
views over to the Worms
Head promontory.
SIR JOHNS HILL
On his 30th birthday,

Thomas said in
Poem in October, he felt
himself summoned out
and over Sir Johns Hill
BROADWAY
TO DELACORSE
After descending
to Broadway, a red mud
lane leads back through
the fields to Laugharne
Browns Hotel, Laugharne

(01994 427688), Dylans
favourite watering hole; The
Boathouse (01994 427420)
for a snack with a sea view.
SUGGESTED OS MAPS:
churchyard where Thomas
lies buried, and on to the
lonely farm of Delacorse
on the Taf Estuary.
BOATHOUSE AND
WRITING SHED
Explorer 177 Carmarthen

& Kidwelly, Landrangers
159 Swansea & Gower
and 158 Tenby.
PARKING:
Church car
park, Laugharne.
PUBLIC TOILETS:
Laugharne Castle car park.
Its a short walk

along the estuary to the
Boathouse (above) where
the tempestuous marriage
between Thomas and his wife
Caitlin was played out, and
the humble shed where he
wrote Under Milk Wood and
his sublime poems.
2 1 CO A S T
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LIVING ON
THE EDGE
Inspired by the beach houses of Cape Town, John and

Laura Mackinnon have transformed a modest Seventies
cottage in Argyll into an award-winning house by the sea
Words Mairi MacDonald PhotograPhs Douglas Gibb
The house is
suspended out
over the rocks,
making the most
of the views up
and down the loch
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ith its cutting-edge design, private

beach and hidden access from the
road, John and Laura Mackinnons
home is known locally as the James Bond
house. the futuristic New World look of the
property reflects the lawyer couples travels
around the globe, and especially Johns time in
cape town, where he grew up. We wanted to
build a place that would take advantage of the
beautiful coastline and the stormy, tempestuous
weather, says John, who, after finally settling
in Glasgow in 2007, together with Laura and
their 11-year-old daughter, decided to look for
a holiday cottage by the sea. We wanted a
house like those we had seen in cape town,
where the buildings appear to blend and merge
seamlessly into the coastline, with the house
clinging to the rocks and the water crashing
on to the windows.
It was on a drive north of Glasgow around
five years ago when they came across a small
cottage for sale on the Rosneath Peninsula in
argyll just an hour outside the city. Right on
the waters edge, the house had fabulous views
out towards the islands of arran and Bute and
up Loch Long towards the hills. It also had a
colourful past. Built in the 1970s, it stands on
what was once the site of a large boathouse
for a private residence up the hill. although the
original pier has since gone, the Victorian boat
rails can still be spotted under the shale on the
private beach. During World War II, the remains
of the boathouse and the beach were seconded
by the British government and turned into a
coastal signalling post. the views from the site
would have made it the perfect place to spot
submarines and ships coming up and down
the water. there is still an original lookout post
in the garden, which we now call the Dog
House, explains John.
THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS
although the position was perfect, the property
was in need of considerable renovation to get it
looking the way the couple wanted it, so they
enlisted the help of Glasgow architect cameron
Webster to remodel the building. together they
redesigned the original 1970s house by making
use of the original footprint cleverly linking two
existing garages to the house by the means of
an entrance hall to increase the floor space from
160 to 250 square metres.
the house now includes five bedrooms, all but
one of which have uninterrupted views over the
water, and smart en-suite bathrooms. stairs lead
down to the master suite with doors that open
oPPosItE, cLocKWIsE
FRoM toP LEFt The
Mackinnons in their living
room; all but one of the
propertys five bedrooms
enjoy views out over the
water; the wide expanse
of glass in the living room
has a UV filter to limit the
amount of sunlight that
shines into the room.
Even on a sunny cold
day, the room is heated
through the glass aBoVE
Cantilevering supports
the extension as it hangs
out over the rocks below.
A balcony with a glass
balustrade wraps itself
around the house
onto a private terrace with steps down to the

beach. However, removing the front of the
house and pushing it out over the rocks below
resulted in the most dramatic transformation.
a new glass wall runs along the length of the
we wanted a place to
take advantage of the
tempestuous weather
building and around the side to double sliding
doors, which open on to a large balcony. In the
summer we open the doors and allow the sea air
to circulate inside, says John. Breakfast on the
decking in summer can easily run into lunch and
afterwards a quick windsurf or cycle along the
coast road. then we are back home for a
barbecue supper to watch the dolphins playing
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JOHN AND LAURAS

GUIDE TO THE
ROSNEATH PENINSULA
For delicious food and excellent

hospitality, try the Knockderry
Country House Hotel on the banks
of Loch Long (01436 842283,
knockderryhouse.co.uk).
To charter a yacht and explore
the west coast of Scotland, contact
Portway Yacht Charters (01369
820120, portwayyachtcharters.com).
Book your tee-off time at the
famous Carrick Golf Course on bonny
Loch Lomond, only half an hour away
from here (01389 713664).
Stroll along the famous seafront in
nearby Helensburgh and eat awardwinning sh and chips at The Wee
Kelpie (01436 675000).
Take the ferry from Kilcreggan
to Gourock and enjoy a dip at
the outdoor swimming pool
(inverclydeleisure.com/gourockoutdoor-swimming-pool/).
Laura relaxes on
the sofa in the living
room. With the
wealth of wildlife
to be seen on the
water, a pair of
binoculars is always
close to hand
2 8 CO AST
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designer friend Natasha Marshall adding the

occasional bright splash of colour. the Magnet
kitchen has been personalised by a teak
surround, island unit, bookcase and floor-toceiling pantry, while a Brazilian slate wall with
a wood-burning stove and wood store breaks
up the otherwise white interior. Back-to-back
with the stove, on the outside of the building, is
another Brazilian slate fireplace this time with a
barbecue. cooking outside is very south african
and sociable, says John. But as the weather is
when the weather is

calm, the house opens up
to let the outside in
a bit unpredictable here in scotland, we have
designed the balcony with a roof and ceiling
heaters so we can cook, eat and entertain
outside whenever we choose.
to take further advantage of the stunning
marine outlook, John and Laura have installed
a hot tub on the decking at the head of the
private pebble beach. While a bank of sheds that
runs along behind the house stores the canoes,
dinghies and windsurfing equipment that the
couple keep for the use of family and friends.
out on the water or groups of oystercatchers

pecking along the shoreline.
In winter, the family battens down the hatches
and watches the storms roll in across the water.
We had to fit toughened glass along the front of
the house to cope with the high tides and bad
weather in the winter, explains John. It can be
pretty brutal out there during a storm, but there
is nothing more exciting than sitting inside in
front of the fire, watching the water cascading
down the glass. to stop the house from
overheating, the windows have been treated
with UV filters. Even on the west coast of
scotland in the depths of winter, the reflection
from the light on the water can heat the house.
A SIMPLE AESTHETIC
Keeping the focus on the jaw-dropping views
outside, the couple have decorated their home
simply, with white walls plus oak flooring
throughout the bedrooms. the open-plan living
room, dining room and kitchen have large
sandstone tiles from Italy and underfloor heating.
Furniture from Habitat is clean-lined and pale,
with geometric cushions from their textile
3 0 co ast
aBoVE Light filters

through the high windows
above the glass doors
of the building to give
this new hallway (which
joins two parts of the
old house) a bright,
contemporary feel.
The sideboard from
Made.com stands below
a painting by Eleanor
Carlingford oPPosItE
PaGE, cLocKWIsE FRoM
toP LEFt The large
master suite has a sliding
glass door, which opens
on to its own balcony
with steps down to the
shoreline; originally a
World War II lookout post,
the Dog House has been
turned into a studio with
heating and a double bed;
the Habitat bed in the
master suite is covered
with an alpaca throw from
Samantha Holmes
THE WILD WEST

the west coast of scotland is known for
its rugged coastline, complete with caves, rock
pools, fishing, crabbing and wonderful wildlifewatching opportunities. We come here to relax
from Glasgow, but there is always so much to
do, we often go home exhausted. Refreshed,
but exhausted! laughs John.
the couple had always intended to let out the
house when they are not using it, and so have
included further high-spec features, such as a
sonos sound system. the final outcome is an
elegant, light-filled space, dominated by the sea
below which has won a number of architectural
awards. When the weather is calm, the house
opens up to let the outside in. the large balcony
acts as an extension of the living room and the
views up the loch are mesmerising. When the
weather is wild and the seas are rough, water
pours down the outside of the glass, turning
the house into a storm-proof cocoon.
the design of this house has exceeded our
expectations, enthuses John. It looks and feels
like we are in New Zealand or canada, but
wonderfully we are on the west coast of
scotland, an hour from Glasgow.
The house is available to rent as property A902
through cottages-and-castles.co.uk.
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3 1 co a s t
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FREE Wall & Floor brochures Online Wall & Floor e -brochures
coast SHOPPING
table manners
For contemporary dining, try

the Dalshult table, 160, and
Idolf chairs, 45 each, Ikea
Pattern play
a woven geometric cushion

will add interest and texture,
15, Sainsburys Home
Classic piece
Look out for iconic designs

like this Vitra RaR 21
armchair by charles & Ray
Eames, 442, Heals
Get the
coMpILED by EMMA CLAYTON for WHErE To buy, SEE STocKISTS pagE
MODERNIST
LOOK
Abstract art
FLIGht OF FANCY
Make a statement with
a bold, original artwork,
Whalewatching,
820,
this sculptural
black
Islandla
at Etsy
parrot,
18, will bring
Clean lines
For a stylish home office

or hallway, this sleek, oak,
stockholm desk is perfect,
299, Tesco Direct
a whimsical touch to your

home. Marquis & Dawe.
Mono mood
choose distinctive
accessories in deep hues.
Lottie black glass bowl, 39,
Kelly Hoppen
3 3 co a s t
RECLAIMED
COASTAL STYLE
Be inspired by these interiors created with
items combed from beach and shore
WORDS & STYLING Tim Neve PHOTOGRAPHS Johan Palsson
coast INTERIORS
Sea Shrine (opposite)
CaSt away CareS (above)
this setting seems to resemble a shrine to the sea. the

decorative ships steering wheel is draped in vintage
rosary beads and worn fringing, as if strewn with seaweed
and barnacles. the masculine iconography of the ships
wheel contrasts with the whimsical filigree of the French
candelabras; a hessian sack is used as a tactile window
covering, adding to the rustic effect of the whitewashed
cabinetry and rough stone walls.
a thrift shop painting depicting a panoramic waterscape

is a window to the world beyond. the interior cladding of a
boatshed is painted all-white to breathe fresh life into the place.
Dcor and furniture in natural materials such as bamboo add
an earthy element and warm the space, while a hessian sack
stamped swiss Water in a watery blue complements the
scheme. Bunting constructed from raw plywood drapes
effortlessly, mixed in with rope and nautical hardware.
3 5 co a s t
MORE STYLING IDEAS

Ropes can be put to good
use by creating a dividing
wall, separating a space
delightfully while letting
light and air through.
Fishing traps and gadgets
can also take on new forms.
Hang shing nets and lobster
pots around a single light
bulb dropped from the
ceiling; the intertwined lattice
will cast a unique shadow
play on to your walls at night.
Distressed doors that
serve no functional purpose
can be rested against a
wall to add layers of interest.
3 6 CO AST
Suspend a bare driftwood

branch as a rail for hanging
pots and plants.
Upcycle wooden transport
pallets or cable reels into all
manner of furniture: pile them
up as bed bases or coffee
tables. Their exposure to the
elements leaves the wood
with a ghostly patina similar
to sunbleached driftwood.
Group like items together:
a collection of rafa sunhats
perched on hooks becomes
a striking design feature
that captures memories
of relaxed coastal walks.
coast INTERIORS
A FINE CATCH (above)

This fishermans creel doubles as a functional storage box,
hanging from a door handle.
FEAST OF FINDS (opposite)

A table setting can be the ultimate test-lab for interior
design. At your next dinner party, try out new colour
schemes and collections you wouldnt normally
apply to your whole home and gauge your guests
reaction to your unexpected combinations or ideas.
Upon the paint-chipped table, a length of linen and
netting is used as a table runner, setting the tone and
texture. A set of mismatched painted chairs adds instant
individuality; mismatched crockery in off-white is set out
for each guest, as well as a linen napkin stencilled with
an individual number, recalling the codes stamped on to
the sea-worn decks of boats moored at fishermens docks.
A circular section cut from a log becomes a platter on
which to arrange some sailors ale bottles, which look
as if they were cast to the bottom of the ocean long ago.
The ivory candles dripping in wax heighten the mood as
evening falls. It feels as if everything has been collected
from a walk along the sand dunes earlier in the day and
re-imagined into the table setting for that evening.
3 7 CO A S T
3 8 co ast
coast INTERIORS
ColleCting inspiration (above)

a walk along the shoreline can reveal a bounty of beautiful
driftwood, shells and flotsam. smooth, wave-worn and
faded, their exquisite natural forms beg us to lift them into
a new life; driftwood, for example, can be transformed
into practical interior focal points such as bedheads and
coat racks. this is the salvaged look with an effortless air.
in MeMory of the sea (opposite)

this hallway still life is a dream example of using a
thoroughfare to create delightful visual stories within
your home. Instead of being a space you simply pass
through, it invites you to stop and enjoy the tale it has
to tell through its collection of found and vintage items
grouped together. an oversized, hand-blown glass bottle,
reminiscent of a netted nautical glass float, accents
the sea-green tones of the weathered French door. the
bottle holds a unique driftwood, palm frond and antler
arrangement, which follows the wonderful architectural lines

of the exposed staircase beam and whitewashed timber
panelling on the wall behind it. Upon the tabletop, the rusty
lantern and a modern table lamp in the shape of a sea urchin,
paint a portrait of life by the sea.
reaDer offer
Images and words taken from
Sandcastles: Interiors Inspired
by the Coast by tim Neve
(25, Murdoch Books). coast
readers can buy the book
for the special price of 20,
including p&p, by calling 01256
302699 and quoting DM8
(offer closes December 2015).
3 9 co a s t
Sartene Bath
What makes an Albion Bath unique?

Our exclusive bath material creates a difference you can feel....
Request your brochure on 01255 831605
or go to: www.albionbathco.com
make something beautiful
Boat Building and Woodworking courses
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2 day to 38 week boat building and woodworking courses
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Spring
An exhibition from Friday 22nd May - Thursday 11th June

Preview evening Friday 22nd May 6-9pm
Baxters, 12 Foss St, Dartmouth TQ6 9DR Tel 01803 839000
liz cooksey
kirsty elson
mani parkes
tracey elphick
james newton adams
caroline rees
simon grifths
janet bell
suzanne
breakwell
andrea berry (polka)
robyn coetzee
julia crimmen
The exhibition is part of Dartmouth Galleries Week when most of the galleries in Dartmouth launch a new show on the same evening.
baxtersgallery.co.uk
coast SHOPPING
RUSTIC CHIC
CReaTe a Relaxed look wITH dISTReSSed

wood and naTURal TexTUReS
4
2
coast
Compiled by EMMa cLaytoN for where to buy, see stockists page
loveS
6
8
1 Decorative whitewashed wooden anchor, 15, the contemporary Home 2 small amiri cupboard, 250, oscar & Eve 3 Nautical round
jute mirror, 125, Puji 4 Reclaimed wood ladder towel rail, 120, Nkuku 5 tall rustic Gustavian metal lantern, 40, Debenhams 6 Matt grey
weathered metal jug, from 4, B&Q 7 Grey cage basket, from a selection at Homesense 8 Bossy chair, 250 for a pair, Loaf
4 1 co a s t
coast SHOPPING
TREASURE
TROVE
coast
LOVES
DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES
FOR YOUR HOME THAT
CONJURE UP MEMORIES
OF THE SEASIDE
4
COMPILED BY EMMA CLAYTON FOR WHERE TO BUY, SEE STOCKISTS PAGE
1 Linea Landscape green ombre jug,, 30, House of Fraser 2 Round blue glass vase, 7.99, H&M 3 Pebble and shell heart wreath, 28, Coastal Home
4 La Rochelle small globe lantern,, 59.95, Annabel James 5 Lene Bjerre Danielle small hurricane lantern,
lantern 81.50, Occa-Home 6 Stone heart
tealight holder, 3, B&Q 7 Shell tree ornament in glass display dome, 116, Artisanti 8 Vintage poison bottle,
bottle 8, Raspberry Mash
4 3 CO A S T
HOW TO BUY YOUR SUBSCRIPTION

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C A R R I E R C O M PA N Y
norfolk
england
OUT AND ABOUT WITH TILLEY

All our Hats are guaranteed for life. They provide
UPF50+ sun protection, tie on in the wind, float, and are
water resistant, keeping you covered wherever
your adventures take you
www.tilley.com T: 01326 574402
PHONE: +44 (0) 1328 820699

EMAIL: info@carriercompany.co.uk
ADDRESS: Church Farm House, Wighton, Norfolk, NR23 1AL, UK
Proudly made in Canada

Designed for the world
How will
your break
evolve?
Evolve from walking to relaxing
in no time on the Isle of Man,
an island that may be small in
size, but is big on what visitors
can experience. From the
buzzing bars and the shops
of Douglas, to trekking along
100 miles of coastal paths and
visiting Castle Rushen, one of
Europes best preserved
Medieval castles.
Fly from: Belfast City, Birmingham, Blackpool, Bristol, Dublin, Glasgow, Gloucester, Liverpool,
London (City, Gatwick & Stansted), Manchester, Newcastle.
Plan your trip at
Sail from: Liverpool, Heysham, Belfast, Dublin.
visitisleofman.com
coast FASHION
The CoasTal Wardrobe

Springtime temperatures call for lightweight fabrics and casual layering
to protect you from any unseasonal chilly winds, says stylist Polly Banks
1
coast
fave
1 angled stone ring, 10, topshop 2 Drio raw-edge denim T-shirt, 44, Waven from Urban outfitters 3 Woven jute clutch with sequined and
beaded crab, 40, Plmo 4 seventies-style high-waisted camel trousers, 49.50, autograph at Marks & spencer 5 Darcy parka jacket, 180,
Parka London 6 Marta fringe sandals, 139, Plmo 7 tortoiseshell sunglasses, 161, stella Mccartney at sunglasses shop
8 scarf-print tote bag, 28, topshop 9 Blue stone necklace, 45, Plmo
4 7 co a s t
coast FASHION
The CoasTal Wardrobe

Kick back in an outfit that takes its cue from a coastal landscape
inspired by steely-grey skies, blue seas and sandy shores
5
4
coaset
fav
1 Grey wave print T-shirt, 50, G star at House of Fraser 2 counter jacket in grey, 260, Folk 3 tortoiseshell sunglasses, 123, Ray-ban at
sunglasses shop 4 leather wallet, 80, Herschel at topman 5 drawcord navy shorts, 90, Folk 6 V-stitch brown leather belt, 30, levis
7 tan suede desert boots, 99, clarks 8 lder watch, 215, larsson & Jennings
4 8 co ast
compiled by polly banks for where to buy, see stockists page
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Superb seaside living coming soon

at Taylor Wimpeys Coast
Offering picturesque views of Bournemouths beautiful golden beach, Taylor Wimpeys forthcoming Coast
development is sure to provide the very best of seaside living.
The leading housebuilder is
redeveloping the Bournemouth
International Hotel (BIH) and Ocean
Palace Restaurant which enjoy a
superb cliff top location overlooking
the bay into 86 luxury one, two
and three bedroom apartments
and penthouses.
This exciting new development
will also feature a 91-space
underground car park and a number
of holiday lets for tourists.
Spanning 7 miles, Bournemouths
award-winning beach has some of
the warmest sea temperatures in
the UK, making Coast the ideal
choice for homehunters looking to
make the most of shoreline living,
as well as holidaymakers seeking
high-quality accommodation in a
fantastic seaside location.
As well as having the beach on the
doorstep, the new homes at Coast
are also just a five minute stroll
from Bournemouths cosmopolitan
town centre, offering a wealth of
shopping, entertainment and leisure
opportunities.
From department stores and high
street retailers to independent
shops and vintage boutiques,
Bournemouths shopping district
has something to suit everyone.
Theres a great choice of cafes,
coffee shops, restaurants and pubs
nearby too, while live entertainment
is hosted regularly at both the
Bournemouth International Centre

(BIC) and the Pavilion Theatre and
Ballroom in the town.
Transport links are plentiful with
regular bus services to all parts
of Bournemouth, while the train
station is within walking distance
from Coast, offering direct services
to Poole, Weymouth and London.
Aspiring homeowners looking for
superb seaside living can register
an interest in the new homes at
Coast by visiting taylorwimpey.
co.uk/coast or by calling 01202
048154. For more information
about Taylor Wimpey developments
across the region, visit the website
or call 0238 025 5288.
Actual view from Coast
Actual view from Coast
PRIORY ROAD, BOURNEMOUTH BH2 5DL
MAKE IT YOURS
AND ENJOY LIFE RIGHT BY THE SEA
COMING SOON 1 & 2 BEDROOM

APARTMENTS AND LUXURY
3 BEDROOM PENTHOUSES.
For a seafront location with stunning views and
the beach at your feet dont miss Coast!
On a prime town-centre site, right in the heart of
Bournemouth, these two impressive buildings
the East Coast and West Coast apartments
will offer the very best of modern living.
+
+
+
+
+
Luxury apartments and penthouses

5 minutes walk into the town centre*
20 minute walk to the train station*
Allocated parking
Exceptional interior specification
Register now for your personal invitation

to our VIP Launch Event
01202 048154
taylorwimpey.co.uk/coast
*Distances approximate. Details correct at time of going to press.

Computer generated image shows typical Taylor Wimpey homes at Coast.
10 best up-and-coming seaside towns
52 From north to south and east to west, we take a look at towns and villages across the UK with huge potential they all offer
fantastic scenery, great schools and an abundance of watersports, as well as homes to suit every taste
59 50 HOMES TO BUY BESIDE THE

SEA A round-up of our favourite coastal
properties on the market now
76 LIVING THE DREAM Lesley Gillilan

speaks to three couples who have upped
sticks and opened a seaside B&B
70 MOVE TO the Llyn Peninsula in

north Wales for the boating, the beaches
and the best of British weather
5 1 co a s t
10 best...
U P-A ND-COMING
S E A SI DE TOWNS
Our list of yet-to-peak coastal towns and villages offer fantastic scenery,
schools and watersports plus bags of potential
WORDS Alex Reece
FOR THE NEXT BIG THING
Brixham, South Devon

Currently more affordable than
nearby South Devon hotspots
such as Salcombe, the small fishing
town of Brixham with its pretty marina
and period houses could see an
uplift in the near future. According to
Richard Addington of Savills Exeter
(savills.co.uk), This is particularly due
to a new transport link in the form of
5 2 CO AST
the Kingskerswell Bypass, which will

make the town much more accessible.
Whats more, resident chef Mitch Tonks
is opening a fourth RockFish restaurant
in his hometown this spring. Other local
attractions include Berry Head National
Nature Reserve for walks with English
Riviera views, and the Art-Deco Shoalstone
outdoor swimming pool.
Average house price: 199,245*.
FOR SAILING & SURFING
Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire
One resort to watch on the Pembrokeshire
coast is Saundersfoot, which has just
secured the first phase of funding for a 4 million
harbour redevelopment. This money will go towards
improving the marine facilities, but the long-term
plan is for the town to become an international
destination for tourism. Saundersfoot already has
a luxury hotel and spa (St Brides), and last year the
restaurant Coast opened on Coppet Hall Beach.
Coast helped to put Saundersfoot on the map,
says Daniel Rees of Savills in Cardiff (savills.co.uk),
who describes the area as having a good
community feel. Meanwhile, Tenby and the
countys surfing beaches are a short drive away.
Find out more at visitpembrokeshire.com.
Average house price: 257,445.
*HOUSE PRICES COURTESY OF RIGHTMOVE.CO.UK.
FOR THE BROADCHURCH

EFFECT
West Bay & Bridport, Dorset

The brooding ITV drama Broadchurch, set
in West Bay on the Jurassic Coast, has had
a tangible impact on the local housing market. The
number of enquiries for second homes and from
people who want to live here has increased, says
Jon Summers, partner at Symonds & Sampson
(symondsandsampson.co.uk). Prices in West Bay
a fishing village with an award-winning restaurant
(The Riverside) and shingle beach have risen three
per cent since last year. The nearby market town of
Bridport has a wider range of property and much
TOP, LEFT The coastline of

West Bay is synonymous
with the ITV hit drama
Broadchurch TOP, RIGHT A
new harbour redevelopment
will help put Saundersfoot
firmly on the tourist trail
ABOVE Royal Terrace
in Southend is lined with
pretty Victorian houses
to offer in the form of a thriving arts scene. Hang

out at the Electric Palace picture house and
theatre, the boutique Bull Hotel & Restaurant
or join in the annual literary and beer festivals.
Average house prices: West Bay, 264,773;
Bridport 240,144.
FOR GOOD SCHOOLS
Southend-on-Sea, Essex
Local agents report an increase in the
number of people moving to Southend from
Norfolk, Suffolk and London a trend fuelled in part
by the reputation of the towns grammar schools
Southend High School for Girls and Southend High
School for Boys which were again listed in the
top 100 schools in England with the best results at
GCSE in the latest league tables. Then theres the
added draw of the Victorian and Edwardian housing
stock, and the recently regenerated seafront.
House prices are typically cheaper in Southend
5 3 CO A S T
coast property special
compared to other nearby seaside towns, but it

has good road and rail links to the capital, so the
location is ideal for commuters, says Gary Denyer,
manager of Bairstow Eves (bairstoweves.co.uk).
FOR AFFORDABILITY
Amble, Northumberland
Bamburgh tends to bag the limelight when
it comes to covetable places to live on the
Northumberland coast. But more affordable villages
are close by and, says sam Gibson, partner at
strutt & Parker (struttandparker.com): the one that
should see the most growth is amble. He points to
coble Quay a development comprising energyefficient apartments and retail units overlooking the
coquet Estuary as an exciting addition to ambles
waterfront (cobledevelopments.co.uk). and the
village has more to offer in the form of stone
cottages, a traditional high street, access to good
schools, plus the heritage coastline on its doorstep.
FOR GREAT BEACHES
Overstrand, Norfolk
Just east of the fashionable North Norfolk
villages of Blakeney, Burnham Market and
Brancaster where average house prices climb
north of 400,000 overstrand represents better
value for money, but still has that Edwardian
charm, according to Nigel steele, partner at
5 4 co ast
aBoVE Amble is set to benefit

from a mixed-use development
on the waterfront toP, RIGHt
Enjoy the sandy beach at
Overstrand in Norfolk RIGHt
The Hayle Estuary, Cornwall
Jackson-stops & staff (jackson-stops.co.uk). It

also has a sandy beach, village shop and post
office, and a caf. and cromer, with a wide selection
of shops and a Victorian pier, is a couple of miles
down the road. Nigel also highlights the proximity of
good state and private schools the village primary
has a good ofsted rating, while Greshams, the
nearest co-ed independent school, is in Holt.
FOR A LIFESTYLE CHANGE
Hayle, Cornwall
the sky-high property prices in cornish
honeypots such as st Ives can be daunting
for downshifters. But look just six miles along the
coast and Hayle, also on st Ives Bay with three
miles of sand overlooking Godrevy Lighthouse is
a cost-effective alternative. It has so much to offer
by way of its architecture and position, says Kris
Peters, manager of Bradleys Estate agents in
Hayle (bradleys-estate-agents.co.uk), adding that
the town has a mainline railway station, schooling
for all ages and easy access to the a30. Potential
buyers should keep tabs on the continuing
regeneration, bringing new homes and restaurants,
which Kris believes will make Hayle one of the
coast property special
most desirable places to live in West cornwall.

FOR WILDLIFE WATCHING
PHotoGRaPHs ALAMy, CReAtive StuDioS, viSit NoRtHuMBeRLAND

**HousE PRIcE couRtEsy oF zooPLa.co.uk
Fortrose & Rosemarkie, Ross-shire

these two neighbouring fishing villages
lie on the southern coast of the Black Isle
Peninsula in the Highlands. they both have long
sandy beaches and are steeped in history (Fortrose
has a 13th-century ruined cathedral; Pictish stones
have been discovered in Rosemarkie), while nearby
chanonry Point is one of the best places to spot
dolphins in the Moray Firth. Whats particularly great
about living here, says Joanne stennett of Bell
Ingram estate agents (bellingram.co.uk), is the
areas commutability. Its just 20 minutes from the
beach to Inverness, she says, making it popular
with those who want a blend of coastal scenery
and urban opportunities. Furthermore, Fortrose
academy is a well-respected secondary school.
FOR HARBOUR LIVING
Donaghadee, Ards Peninsula,

County Down
the pretty seaside town of Donaghadee is
just 20 miles east of Belfast on the ards Peninsula
and is becoming increasingly desirable among city
workers. Its appeal lies in the picturesque harbour
and exhilarating views over the copeland Islands to
scotland. With great local schools, fantastic sport
facilities and a thriving town centre, its no wonder
Donaghadee is rising in popularity, says John
Minnis, director of John Minnis estate agents
(johnminnis.co.uk). owing to its restaurant scene,
too including the Governor Rock and Pier 36,
among others John says the Dee is now
toP, cENtRE Beach huts line

the sandy beach at Minnis
Bay on the Kent coast which
is 90 minutes from London
toP, RIGHt Fortrose Harbour,
Scotland aBoVE Donaghadee
is set around a picturesque
harbour on the Ards Peninsula
attracting the holiday-home market, investors and

worn-out city dwellers seeking some sea air.
Average house price: 210,543**.
FOR HIGH-SPEED TRAINS
10
Birchington and
Westgate-on-Sea, Kent
the property market in thanet, and
Margate in particular, has gathered pace since
the launch of the high-speed rail link to London in
2009. the turner contemporary art gallery and
resurgent old town have also added to the allure.
But for village living, steve cort of Miles & Barr
(miesandbarr.co.uk) recommends Birchington and
Westgate-on-sea as the quieter, lesser-known
options in the area. Both have Blue Flag beaches
(Minnis Bay, West Bay respectively) and high streets
with independent shops, while Birchington offers
slightly faster train links (from 90 minutes) to
London. Average house prices: Birchington,
214,579; Westgate-on-Sea, 184,136.
5 5 co a s t
Westward Ho!
photo of golf course and beach
NORTH DEVON
35 luxury holiday homes overlooking Royal North Devon

golf course towards the sea and surrounding countryside.
Choice of 2,3,4 bedrooms with rst oor living and prices
from 210,000 to 310,000.
Photo shows the Westward Ho! beach not taken from the site
Stunning architectural designs and comprehensive spec with sub

floor gas c/h, balconies with bi-fold doors, 2/3 bathrooms.
VISIT WWW.PEBBLE-RIDGE.COM
WEBBERS 01271 379797 / 01237 472344
1st phase
all sold now
reserving for
2 nd phase.
Walmer
Set back from the sea front with views of Deal Castle and the sea, a gracious, Late Georgian townhouse.
Guide Price 600,000
Coastal Kent at its best.

For further information please contact:
Bright & Bright, 29 Victoria Road, Deal, Kent CT14 7AS t: 01304 374071
e: sales@brightandbright.co.uk www.brightandbright.co.uk
A member of
nTheMarket.com
B R IG H T
& Bright
COASTAL PROPERTIES
coast PROPERTY
50
HOMES to buy
BESIDE the SEA...
From a CONVERTED LIGHTHOUSE and a stunning NEW-BUILD

to a pretty BEACH HUT and a TRADITIONAL BOTHY, heres our
pick of the latest properties for sale by the sea COMPILED BY Alice Westgate
PROPERTY
of the MONTH
FOWEY,
CORNWALL
1,975,000
You cant get much closer to

the water than Pieds dans
Leau, an elevated waterfront
home with five bedrooms and
views across the estuary from
its many balconies.
See 1 overleaf
5 9 CO A S T
coast property
FOWEY, CORNWALL
1,975,000
Previous page: this beautiful
house comes complete with
private jetty, foreshore rights
and mooring. Knight Frank
(01392 423111, knightfrank.co.uk).
WHITSTABLE, KENT
375,000
seaside cottage is a charming
period house near the harbour.
It has two bedrooms and a
roof terrace with wonderful
sea views. Christopher
Hodgson (01227 266441,
christopherhodgson.co.uk).
ST ISSEY, CORNWALL
800,000
tregonce Farm is a Grade
II-listed property that sits
in a hamlet between Rock
and Padstow. It has five
6 0 co ast
bedrooms and looks out

across the camel Estuary.
Knight Frank (01392 423111,
knightfrank.co.uk).
ST JuST, CORNWALL
3,000,000
Porthledden is an impressive
13-bedroom house on cape
cornwall that dates from the
1900s and has been restored to
its former glory. It looks out to the
atlantic, with the Isles of scilly on
the horizon. Savills (01872
243200, savills.co.uk).
MuDEFORD, DORSET
185,000
this pretty beach hut is located
on the ever-popular Mudeford
spit. It has a fitted kitchen with
fridge, hob and oven, and sleeps
six. Denisons (01202 484748,
denisons.com).
The
main house
occupies
a truly
magnificent
position
above
Englands
only cape
4
GLET NESS, SHETLAND

ISLES 350,000
Get away from it all at the North
House, a spacious five-bedroom
family home with a long pebble
beach just beyond the garden.
the property is set in six acres,
and the headland of Glet Ness
is also included in the sale.
Dowle, Smith & Rutherford
(01595 695583, d-s-r.co.uk).
MYLOR, CORNWALL
800,000
Located right on the waters
edge, Rackley has around 150ft
of foreshore, accessed via steps
from the garden, plus four
bedrooms and two reception
rooms. Mylor Yacht Harbour and
the carrick Roads are a stones
throw away, making this house
a sailors paradise. H Tiddy
(01326 455026, htiddy.co.uk).
coast property
13
11
14
15
12
10
east portlemouth,
devon 495,000
Gara Rock is a new development
high on the headland and cottage
No 1 is the ideal three-bedroom
holiday home. Residents also
have the use of a luxury spa.
Marchand Petit (01548 844473,
marchandpetit.co.uk).
Walmer, Kent
600,000
set back from the seafront,
trelawney House is an elegant
late-Georgian town house with
four bedrooms, three reception
rooms and two bathrooms.
Bright & Bright (01304 374071,
brightandbright.co.uk).
10
lesWalt, dumfries
& galloWay 495,000
Perched high above a beach on
the Rhins of Galloway, Knock Bay
House sits in 47 acres of land that

includes a stretch of coastline. the
house was built in 2006 and has
five bedrooms and five reception
rooms. Strutt & Parker (01312
262500, struttandparker.com).
11
rye, east susseX

495,000
the studio House is a modern
weather-boarded property with
three bedrooms and is in a prime
location in the towns conservation
area. Phillips & Stubbs (01797
227338, phillipsandstubbs.co.uk).
12
stoer point,
highlands 95,000
Escape to the Lighthouse stores,
a traditional bothy constructed
in 1860. Its simple interior has
a fireplace, but no water or
electricity. Bell Ingram (01463
717799, bellingram.co.uk).
Sell your
home
ThrouGh
coast
If you have
a coastal home
to sell and would
like it to appear
on these pages,
email madeleine.
barber@kelsey.
co.uk for more
details. cost
is 50 for
subscribers,
100 for
non-subscribers.
We work three
months in
advance.
Properties are
chosen at
the editors
discretion.
13
chichester, West
susseX 1,500,000
Little creek is a detached
house built in 2000 that has
four bedrooms, together with a
host of lovely outdoor spaces.
Stride & Son (01243 782626,
strideandson.co.uk).
14
doWnderry,
cornWall 1,195,000
Far Horizon is a 1920s house
with five bedrooms. three
interconnecting conservatories
allow you to make the most
of the views. Jackson-Stops
& Staff (01872 261160,
jackson-stops.co.uk).
15
dale, pemBroKeshire
975,000
this former lighthouse has
been converted into a four/
five-bedroom home with a
6 1 co a s t
coast property
19
18
17
three-bedroom annexe. It has an

indoor swimming pool and gym,
plus an observation lounge. Coasty
(01437 772768, coasty.co.uk).
16
CAMPBELTOWN,
ARGYLL & BUTE 550,000
sitting on a promontory, creag
Lodge has five bedrooms, a
drawing room with a turret and
access to the shore from the
garden. Savills (01412 225875,
savills.co.uk).
17
BRIXHAM, DEVON
425,000
Wonderful sea views can be
enjoyed from the balcony of
Northern Lights. Upstairs are
three double bedrooms, while
outside there is a terrace and
landscaped gardens. Bradleys
(01803 882715, bradleys-estate
agents.co.uk).
6 2 co ast
21
20
16
Creag
Lodge
enjoys views
towards
Carradale
Bay and the
mountains
of Arran
16
22
18
PIRNMILL, ISLE
OF ARRAN 325,000
Meadow cottage has three
bedrooms, an open-plan living
area and a summerhouse.
a one-bedroom annexe is also
included. Bell Ingram (01292
886544, bellingram.co.uk).
19
TUCKENHAY, DEVON
475,000
Views of the water are on offer
at No 4 the Quay, which is a
three-storey, end-of-terrace with
three bedrooms and a shared
slipway. Marchand Petit (01803
847979, marchandpetit.co.uk).
20
WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA,
NORFOLK 55,000
Rebuilt in 2010, hut No 164 sits
at the Holkham end of the beach.
though overnight stays are not
permitted, its a fantastic daytime
retreat for anyone who loves

spending time at the coast.
Belton Duffey (01328 710666,
beltonduffey.com).
21
ROCK, CORNWALL
4,500,000
Lanarth occupies one of the
largest waterfront plots in Rock,
with around 40m of frontage.
Inside are five bedrooms and
two reception rooms with
doors on to the terrace. Savills
(01872 243200, savills.co.uk).
22
EYEMOUTH, SCOTTISH
BORDERS 95,000
Move to this two-storey duplex
apartment and youll have
easy access to the beautiful
Berwickshire coast. No 2 colinville
has two bedrooms that both
overlook the harbour. Rettie
(01289 305158, rettie.co.uk).
Luxury Coastal Homes with Stunning Sea Views in South East Cornwall
One 2 bedroom house and four 2 bedroom apartments for sale in rst phase. Luxury nish with
contemporary interiors. Balconies or terraces. Private parking and only approx 100 m from the
beach. Next door to an 18 hole cli top golf course and leisure complex. Ideal family or holiday
homes. Full residenSal Prices from 310,000 - 325,000
To nd out more call
01392 832 446

info@chartsedge.co.uk
www.chartsedge.co.uk
coast property
28
23
24
29
26
30
25
27
23
MALPAS, CORNWALL
1,200,000
this creek-side eco-house has
a private quay and pontoon. the
main house has two bedrooms;
theres also an annexe. Savills
(01872 243200, savills.co.uk).
24
TENBY, PEMBROKESHIRE
895,000
Monterey is a modern fourbedroom house with a master

suite that has its own balcony.
Fine & Country (01834 862138,
fineandcountry.com).
25
SEABROOK, KENT
520,000
an elevated position gives sea
views from all the front rooms at
No 2 seabrook Mount, which has
five bedrooms and a garden. CR
Child & Partners (01303 267421,
crchildandpartners.co.uk).
Waters
Edge is an
attractive
cedar-clad
house with
all the
latest ecotechnology
23
26
WIVENHOE, ESSEX
875,000
River cottage is a period town
house tailor-made for entertaining,
with three bedrooms, an outdoor
dining space and a terrace.
Zoe Napier (01621 840330,
bythewaterside.com).
27
PORTPATRICK, DUMFRIES
& GALLOWAY 485,000
two properties that once housed
the keepers of Killantringan (now
decommissioned) are for sale.
the first is Light Keepers House,
with six bedrooms; the second is
Lighthouse cottage, with three.
Knight Frank (01312 229600,
knightfrank.co.uk).
28
TOPSHAM, DEVON
849,000
Ivy Lodge is a three-bedroom
house in the centre of topshams
conservation area. It is thought

to date back to the 18th century.
Wilkinson Grant & Co (01392
875000, wilkinsongrant.co.uk).
29
HAPPISBURGH, NORFOLK
790,000
Happisburgh Manor is a grand
house with eight bedrooms,
two oak-panelled reception
rooms, a heated swimming pool,
hot tub and 12 acres of land.
Jackson-Stops & Staff (01603
612333, jackson-stops.co.uk).
30
WINCHELSEA,
EAST SUSSEX 750,000
Built in the early 20th century
in the style of the arts and crafts
movement, three Kings offers
four bedrooms and an open-plan
kitchen/dining space on three
floors. Phillips & Stubbs (01797
6 5 co a s t
coast property
31
34
32
35
37
36
38
33
31
BIGBURY, DEVON
725,000
Location is key at atlantic House,
which perches on a cliff. It has five
bedrooms and planning consent
for development into apartments.
Marchand Petit (01548 831163,
marchandpetit.co.uk).
32
DEAL, KENT
295,000
a host of original features makes
Beach cottage ripe for renovation.
Its a pretty period house with four
bedrooms in a plum position right
on the towns seafront. Bright &
Bright (01304 374071,
brightandbright.co.uk).
33
SEATON, CORNWALL
159,000
spectacular sea views are on
offer from this two-bedroom
holiday apartment at No 13
6 6 co ast
Mount Brioni, between Looe and

Polperro. It has a large balcony,
communal gardens and a path
to the beach. Chartsedge (01392
832446, chartsedge.co.uk).
34
HASTINGS, EAST
SUSSEX 465,000
No 28 all saints street is in the
historic old town, on a road that
leads to the seafront. It is a fine
Grade II-listed house with four
bedrooms and a wealth of period
detailing. Phillips & Stubbs (01797
35
LYNMOUTH, DEVON
from 275,000
converted from a period building,
the luxury two- and threebedroom apartments at tors Park
have sea views and are just 100m
from the beach. Chartsedge
(01392 832446, chartsedge.co.uk).
Farreaching
harbour
views are a
highlight of
this lateVictorian
villa
38
36
PLYMOUTH, DEVON
245,000
snap up this apartment in an
exclusive waterside complex.
apartment 27 at No 8 Grand
Parade has two bedrooms and a
living room with views. Lang & Co
(01752 256000, lang.co.uk).
37
DOLGELLAU, GWYNEDD
550,000
Nos 1 & 2 Borth cottages date
from the 17th century and
occupy a spot on the Mawddach
Estuary. together they have six
bedrooms and a sun terrace.
Jackson-Stops & Staff (01244
328361, jackson-stops.co.uk).
38
SALCOMBE, DEVON
1,375,000
Far-reaching harbour views are a
highlight at this late-Victorian villa
with four bedrooms, beautifully
coast property
40
41
42
43
39
44
proportioned rooms and oodles of

character. Marchand Petit (01548
39
BRIXHAM, DEVON
820,000
one of the finest apartments in
Brixham, Flat 11 Prince William
Quay has a large sun terrace
and a communal swimming
pool, plus three bedrooms,
three bathrooms and a spacious,
light-filled, open-plan, living space.
Strutt & Parker (01392 799092,
struttandparker.com).
40
ROUNDSTONE,
GALWAY 995,000
at this stone-clad cottage right on
the beach youll find an open-plan
living space, a mezzanine study
area and three bedroom suites.
Ganly Walters (+353 1 662 3255,
ganlywalters.ie).
41
PORTREATH,
CORNWALL
from 275,000 to 295,000
set in the grounds of the Gwel
an Mor five-star resort, the
Residence is a new development
of two- and three-bedroom
contemporary houses offering
luxury interiors and sea views.
Residents also benefit from an
on-site indoor pool, spa, gym and
restaurant. Chartsedge (01392
832446, chartsedge.co.uk).
42
WHITBY, NORTH
YORKSHIRE 200,000
this luxury lower ground-floor
apartment is part of a striking
period building called streonshalh,
which looks out over the town,
the abbey and the harbour. It has
two reception rooms and two
bedrooms. Bridgfords (01947
603433, bridgfords.co.uk).
Each
property has
a beautifully
designed
interior and
sea views
41
43
DUNBEACON,
WEST CORK
400,000
overlooking Dunmanus
Bay on the Mizen Peninsula,
sheepcloud has one of the
best vistas in West cork.
the house is built from local
stone, has three bedrooms
and a conservatory, and is near
numerous beaches. Charles
McCarthy (+353 28 21533,
charlesmccarthy.com).
44
SALCOMBE, DEVON
850,000
Full of seaside charm, No 9
Victoria Quay sits in the heart
of town overlooking the water.
Its a Grade II-listed cottage
and has two bedrooms, period
features and a courtyard
garden. Marchand Petit (01548
6 7 co a s t
coast property
48
45
49
46
50
47
45
TAYVALLICH, ARGYLL
& BUTE 545,000
ardnackaig is a traditional
scottish farmhouse in a
wonderfully secluded spot
offering the bonus of direct
access to the sea. It has five
bedrooms, three reception rooms,
a host of outbuildings and a
sheltered natural harbour with
jetty. Knight Frank (01312
229600, knightfrank.co.uk).
46
LOWICK,
NORTHUMBERLAND
395,000
For beautiful views of the

Northumberland coast, head to
this single-storey house called
Lindisfarne. It has five bedrooms
and a large garden, plus an
adjoining self-contained cottage
with two bedrooms. Smiths Gore
(01289 333030, smithsgore.co.uk).
6 8 co ast
The house
occupies a
secluded
position with
the Sound of
Jura to the
west and
Loch Sween
to the
southeast
45
47
49
COWES, ISLE
OF WIGHT 950,000
In a prime position on cowes
Parade, townshend House is
a Georgian building next to the
Island sailing club. the property
spans three floors and includes
five bedrooms and a fabulous
space for outdoor entertaining.
Spence Willard (01983 200880,
spencewillard.co.uk).
LIZARD, CORNWALL
575,000
one of the most southerly
properties in mainland Britain,
Gone with the Wind at Bass
Point is a former coastguards
cottage that enjoys glorious
views. It has two bedrooms, a
conservatory, a courtyard and
a garden. Lillicrap Chilcott (01872
273473, lillicrapchilcott.com).
48
50
BRADWELL-ON-SEA,
ESSEX 600,000
Four-bedroom Mote cottage
is on the outskirts of the village
and its master suite looks out
towards the Blackwater Estuary.
special features include a wine
cellar, triple garage, greenhouse,
summerhouse and outdoor
swimming pool with poolhouse.
Zoe Napier (01621 840333,
inthecountryside.com).
OLD HUNSTANTON,
NORFOLK 575,000
Hippisley Hut is a former radio
listening station that played a
crucial part in ending the second
World War. Nowadays it has five
bedrooms, a sitting room with
open fire and a generous garden
room. Bedfords (01328 730500,
bedfords.co.uk).
For coastal house features,
see coastmagazine.co.uk
Pett Level, East Sussex - OIEO 600,000
Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex - 385,000
Rye, East Sussex - 595,000
Pett Level, East Sussex - 479,950
Guestling, East Sussex - 950,000
Rye - Potential Restaurant/cafe - 395,000
First time on the market for over 60 years a unique detached

1920s coastal cottage with 180o views over countryside and
sea in the distance. Accommodation includes vaulted living
room, kitchen/dining room, two bedrooms, study/bedroom 3.
Landscaped gardens of approx. 1.4 acres. EPC rating E
A charming Grade II listed period town house of early 16th century

origin, full of character opening onto a cobbled street in the
Citadel. Accommodation includes sitting/dining room, kitchen, ve
bedrooms and a south facing paved garden. There are far reaching
views from the upper oors to the rear.
A Grade II listed barn of 15th century origin set within a rural hamlet
away from main roads, within gardens /grounds of approx 12 acres.
Accommodation includes central vaulted hall, four bedrooms, kitchen/
dining room, living room. Large section of the barn remains unconverted.
Cellar and 40 foot workshop.
RYE OFFICE 01797 227338

MAYFAIR OFFICE 0870 112 7099
A stylish Edwardian seafront apartment, with unobstructed views

of the English Channel and a large south facing decked terrace
leading directly onto the promenade and beach. Accommodation
includes sitting room, dining room, sun room, kitchen and two
double bedrooms. EPC rating D
A beautifully presented former coastguard cottage occupying a

commanding position with sweeping coastal and inland views. A
Victorian mid-terrace property the accommodation includes sitting/
dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms, garage/gym, and separate
studio/garden room. EPC rating E
A refurbished waterside property, fronting the River Tillingham, fully

equipped for use as a brasserie/cafe together with an 80 foot deck
for al fresco dining. 8 adjacent moorings, garaging, and staff parking.
EPC rating E
phillipsandstubbs.co.uk
335,0
4 2 5 ,0
00
00
345,000
PERIOD BUNGALOW
on the outskirts of aberdaron,
this old-style, dormer bungalow
offers three bedrooms and a
generous plot of land with consent
to build an additional house.
7 0 co ast
BEACH COTTAGE
this fishermans cottage (centre)
on the waterfront at Nefyn has four
bedrooms, beams, an inglenook
and amazing views. No vehicles,
though access is on foot via the
beach. Fine & Country (01248
711999, fineandcountry.com).
2 .95 m
GARDEN IDYLL
at the foot of Llanbedrog
headland, pretty Forget Me Not
cottage has two bedrooms,
and nearly two acres of grounds
close to Warren Beach.
DREAM HOUSE
With panoramic views over
cardigan Bay, this architectdesigned home is set into rocks
on abersoch seafront and features
a sedum roof, four bedroom suites
and two sun terraces. Savills
(01625 417450, savills.co.uk).
Move to...
the llyn peninsula
North Wales beautiful Llyn Peninsula has pretty

seaside villages and offers boating, beaches and
the best of British weather
CAN YOU
AFFORD IT?
4
Abersoch: 358.00
0
,85
22
2
li:
Pwllhe
Gwynedd: 170,559
UK: 265,388
es: [MArch 2015].

AverAGe hoUse Pric PlA
soUrce: Zoo
).
(www.ZooPlA.co.UK
crooked limb of land

hanging off the coast of
snowdonia, the beautiful
Llyn Peninsula has a lot in
common with cornwall. the
two places share the same
independent nature and island
mentality, a similar reputation
for mild weather and long sandy
beaches; they even share a history
of mining and granite quarrying.
on a map, it actually looks a bit
like cornwall, but Llyn (pronounced
Lleen) only 25 miles long is
a tiddler by comparison. Pwllheli,
the capital, is the only proper
town, and the peninsula is
thoroughly and proudly Welsh

(most of the locals speak the
language). a range of mini Welsh
mountains rises from its northern
shore: a hike to the triple summits
of Yr Eifl, the peninsulas highest
points, is rewarded by breathtaking
views of the Irish sea and across
cardigan Bay to the peaks of
the snowdonia National Park.
Below, fields of gentle farmland
dotted with Llyns own woolly
breed of sheep roll down to
aBoVE Yachts
on the River
Soch Estuary
in Abersoch
waiting for the
tide to come in
the peninsulas fingertips where

romantic Bardsey Island sits
like a full-stop off wild, lonely
Mynydd Mawr headland Waless
own Lands End.
With the nearest motorway
nearly two hours away it is, says
local resident Jayne Edge, a little
bit remote, but that doesnt stop
crowds of visitors piling into the
pretty seaside villages in one of
the sunniest places in Britain. they
come mainly from cheshire and
the cities of the northwest, and
they tend to head for abersoch.
the heart of the local tourist
industry, abersoch has it all:
cliffs and coves, sandy beaches,
a yacht marina, bars, bistros and
boaty fashion shops. the place
comes alive in the summer,
says Jayne. though some
prefer the winter when its quieter.
Jayne moved from shropshire
to abersoch to join her husband
Marco an anglo-Italian born
in Pwllheli. and the couple, who
have an 18-month-old daughter,
now run abersochs B&B
and restaurant, the Venetia.
they spend their time off on
a beach, in a boat or exploring the
peninsula: a drive up to Nefyn on
the north coast (a highlight is the
seaside hamlet of Porthdinllaen,
only accessible on foot); or down
PHotoGRaPH AlAMY
words Lesley Gillilan illustration Tom Jay
7 1 co a s t
Polperro, Cornwall
An exciting waterfront property perfect for
refurbishment or redevelopment. Situated
in a breath-taking, position on the Cornish
coast, with panoramic views over Polperro
harbour and out to sea. EPC: G. About 1.05
acres.
Guide price: 750,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/exeter
exeter@knightfrank.com
01392 423111
KnightFrank.co.uk/EXE140364

WHOS WHO?
The singer, Duffy

(or
Duffy) spent muc Amie Ann
h of her youth
in Nefyn. Surviva
l
Bear Grylls is th expert
e
St Tudwals West owner of
isl
its lighthouse. Sit and and
co
Carla Lane owns m writer
uninhab
St Tudwals East. ited
to aberdaron, at the foot of

Llyn, with its humped-back
bridge and seaside church
(the cemetery is right on the
beach). snowdonia is on
the doorstep. For us, Llyn is all
about the sea and the scenery
and being outdoors, says Jayne.
WHERE TO BUY
For its sandy beaches, laid-back
holiday vibe and smart sea-view
houses, abersoch is the obvious
choice. Llanbedrog, with its wild
headland and quarry beach, is its
quieter, more traditional neighbour.
Pwllheli, the areas workaday
market town, has the convenience
of local services (supermarkets,
railway station, schools) and
is generally cheaper: large,
family-sized houses sell for around
200,000; small, terraced cottages
for around 85,000. Escapists
should head for out-of-the-way
aberdaron and its surrounding
villages; or for a slice of real Wales
and the great outdoors, explore
Nefyn on the rugged north coast.
BELoW Evening
light over
Porthdinllaen
on the Llyn
Peninsula
TIME OUT
the peninsula is blessed with

beaches, particularly around
abersoch. Head to the National
trusts tywyn y Fach for dunes,
kayaking and dreamy views of st
tudwals islands, or to Llanbedrog
for its sheltered sands and a line
of photogenic beach huts. the
Wales coast Path offers some
spectacular walks: try aberdaron
to the Whispering sands at Porth
oer via the summit of Mynydd
Mawr. there is excellent sailing
out of abersoch or Pwllheli (the
latters marina is one of the finest
in the North West), seaside golf at
Morfa Nefyn and good surfing
at Hells Mouth Bay. Great places
to eat include the ty coch Inn
(tycoch.co.uk), a north-coast
fishermens pub right on

Porthdinllaen beach and Italianstyle Venetia in abersoch
(venetiawales.com). For more
information, see visitwales.com.
JOBS & COMMUTING

one of the most out-of-theway places in the country,
the peninsula is not ideal for
commuters or job-seekers
there are opportunities in tourism,
retailing or the public sector,
but it helps to speak Welsh (the
main language for around 80 per
cent of the population). the only
station is at Pwllheli; the end of
the line for the cambrian coast
Railway, which runs services
to Machynlleth, shrewsbury or
Birmingham (change here for
The Llyn Peninsula is

all about the sea and the
scenery and being outdoors
7 3 co a s t
LUXURY LIFEST
IFESTYLE
YLE BUSINESS FOR SALE
SALE
NEAR DONEGAL CO
COAST
AST
01736 630015
Easily-managed, fully-refurbished Boutique 5 bedroom B&B

(all en suite) plus luxury one bed thatched cottage and
parking. Heritage town location nr Donegal coast. 435,000
For further information, contact: Brendan Kirwan
brendankirwan@yahoo.co.uk
www.gatsby-house.com
The Schoolhouse
Dornie
www.schoolhousedornie.com
Unique Lifestyle Opportunity

Situated in the picturesque village
of Dornie, home to the
world-famous
Eilean Donan Castle.
A bright and spacious 3 bedroom
family home with 4 en-suite letting
bedrooms, located by the main
tourist route to the Isles, situated
some 10 miles from the
beautiful Isle of Skye.
Offers over 395,000

For further details visit
www.remax-skye.net
Or phone 01471 822900
Skye, Lochalsh & Wester Ross
Estate Agents Main Street, Broadford, Isle of Skye IV49 9AE
Pay a visit
Plas Bodegroes
(01758 612363, bodegroes.co.uk).
chef chris chown and his wife Gunna, run

this charming country restaurant with rooms,
set in private grounds close to Pwllheli.
the house is Georgian, Grade II-listed and
beautifully decorated in keeping with its fine
period features; the comfortable rooms are
modern rustic; and the restaurant displays a
passion for local produce. the cosy lounge and
formal dining room have views of the hotels
pretty gardens. Doubles from 120 per night.
London Euston, which takes six

and a half hours). trains to nearby
Porthmadog take 20 minutes.
caernarfon is 45 minutes by car.
Liverpool, the nearest city and
airport, is over two hours away.
local housing market but also

fear the dilution of their culture.
Nothing can be done to check
the second-homes market, but
committed, full-time movers might
consider learning a little Welsh.
schools
comIng up
Botwnnog (five miles inland

from abersoch) and Glan-y-Mor
in Pwllheli are the areas main
secondary schools. Both are
bilingual comprehensives,
rated Good by Estyn (the
Welsh equivalent of ofsted).
New development is rare, though

a fashion for tarting up tired old
seaside bungalows has spread
in Llyns south-coast villages:
abersoch is dotted with glassy
conversions. a block of new-ish
seafront apartments, West
End Point, sit on the promenade
in Pwllheli. and in abersoch, the
Harbour Mews Hotel (a Victorian
landmark, empty for years)
has been demolished to make
way for an exclusive, harbour-side
development of contemporary
houses priced from 650,000.
REAlITY chEcK
the influx of non-Welsh-speaking
buyers and second-home owners
is a bone of contention among
locals who, in some areas, have
not only been priced out of the
What Jayne likes about

The Llyn Peninsula
Watching seals
and dolphins in
the bay off st tudwals
islands. Its lovely to
see these creatures
in their natural habitat. Jayne and
Marco have their own boat, but
abersoch angling (01758712646,
abersochangling.co.uk) runs wildlife
trips in the fishing boat, Jenny II.
The view
from Y Garn
to Tremadog
Bay, Pwllheli
a favourite walk is from

abersoch along the Wales
coast path to the National
trusts idyllic sandy beach at
Port ceiriad (nationaltrust.org.uk).
the views are amazing.
PHotoGRaPHs alaMy
the oriel plas glyn y

WeddW or Gallery in the Vale
of the Widow (01758 740763,
oriel.org.uk) in Llanbedrog is, says
Jayne, a fantastic local asset. In
a Grade II-listed, Victorian Gothic
dower house, it offers exhibitions,
arts events and a cafe. the
building is steeped in history
and the setting is beautiful.
7 5 co a s t
Living
the
Dream
Opening a bed and breakfast is a well-trodden

route to a new life on the coast. Lesley Gillilan
interviews those who have made the move
aBoVE David Hoyes and

Philippa McKnight were
inspired to open their
B&B, Venton Vean in
Penzance, by their love
of food aand design
7 6 co ast
n 2010, city lawyers David Hoyes and

Philippa McKnight jacked in their jobs,
sold their London home and moved to the
western tip of cornwall. For years they had
been thinking about doing something completely
different in a place they had grown to love. We
wanted our children to grow up with fresh air
and an outdoor life, says Philippa. the question
theyd always asked themselves was what they
would live on, but by the time they were ready to
move, they had a plan.
From the proceeds of their London property,
the couple bought a large detached Victorian
villa in Penzance and after a year of building
work adding en-suite bathrooms to five lovely
bedrooms they opened their doors to paying
guests. We chose the bed-and-breakfast route
because we love food, design and travel, says
David. But we were complete novices. We had
no idea what was involved.
theirs is not an unusual case. the
accommodation industry is full of downshifters
and B&B beginners turning holiday romances
into reality by swapping city jobs for a seaside
lifestyle business or a home with an income.
Jason and annie Robinson, the couple behind
swain House in Watchet near Minehead, both
worked for Disney in London when they bought
a weekend bolthole in the somerset town. they
coast SLUG
began to spend more and more time there, so

when the shop next door came up for sale, they
took an impulsive decision to buy it, renovate it
and open a boutique B&B. It was a complete
gamble, says Jason.
Former librarian Brendan McDonagh and
fashion designer Lionel copleys love affair with
Hastings and the East sussex coast also began
with a small holiday cottage. they loaned the
cottage to friends, who wanted to bring other
friends, and as their little house began to earn
an income they wondered whether there might
be a market for a B&B. In 2006, they bought a
15th-century, half-timbered building already
trading with two guest rooms and transformed
the interior, adding two more rooms. When we
aBoVE aND LEFt The

comfortable sitting
room at Venton Vean in
Penzance, with its vivid
coastal-inspired colour
scheme, is the perfect
place to relax; each of
the individually designed
bedrooms is a chic haven
of period features
opened, we were amazed when the phone

began to ring, says Brendan.
In all three cases, success has been a triumph
of hope over experience, but all three have earned
their stripes. Reviews of David and Philippas
Venton Vean guest house in Penzance are
peppered with superlatives: stunning, classy,
immaculate, a chic haven of period features.,
and The Guardian enthused about the industrial
luxe vibe at swain House near Minehead
(attention to detail comes in spades). Meanwhile,
the award-winning swan House in Hastings is
widely considered a five-star blueprint for the
quintessential boutique B&B (hotel standards at
guest house prices with a big helping of effortless
style). all three have been rated by tripadvisor as
7 7 co a s t
coast SLUG
Karen, a B&Bs primary asset is its owners ability

to get on with strangers, and to offer a genuine
welcome. Its all about people skills, she says.
FINDING THE RIGHT PROPERTY
best B&B in their regions. For us, it was a gamble

that paid off, says Jason.
So what has made these ventures so
successful? Style is one factor, but it wont have
been effortless in the making. Immaculate, yes,
but thats down to hard graft. In a high-risk
business which sees a lot of failures there is
no room for rose-tinted spectacles. A priority
is to get the basic product right, says Karen
Thorne, who runs residential courses for
wannabe guest house owners from her own
B&B in Shropshire. Dont skimp on the beds or
the breakfast both have to be perfect, she
adds. Other bywords include fresh, locally
sourced, homemade, eco-friendly, cosy, chic
the list goes on. Effective marketing is another
key factor, and a great website. But, according to
7 8 CO AST
ABOVE Owners of Swain

House Annie and Jason
Robinson describe
their decision to open
a B&B as a gamble
that paid off
In an industry that thrives on quirks and unique

offers, exceptions are common but broadly
speaking there are three main property options:
buy a ready-made boutique B&B (for which you
will usually pay a premium), do up a tired, rundown seaside guest house or small hotel (often
cheaper than a house of an equivalent size),
or buy a roomy family house and convert. The
tired hotel options often come with damp, dated
decor and dodgy carpets, meaning an expensive
makeover, and can be more difficult for beginners
to mortgage. For house conversions designed
to accommodate more than six guests, you will
also need planning consent for change of use.
As a rule of thumb, you will need the income
from three or more rooms to make ends meet.
In all cases, look out for properties with kerb
appeal (pretty in pictures and oozing character),
handy parking and lots of plumbing, or readyto-go en-suite bathrooms. And location is
key: not just pretty streets and nice views, but
popular holiday places with easy access to
transport routes, shops, restaurants, beaches
and things to do. David and Philippa chose
Penzance because its cheaper and has more
of a community feel than neighbouring St Ives.
Penzance made sound business sense but still
depressing and often in the basement, says

David. There was no point in making such a
big move if we didnt have a nice place to live.
He and Philippa solved the problem by
converting a garage in their Venton Vean garden
into a self-contained annexe for the family.
Having children in the same space as guests
doesnt really work, says David. The Robinsons
agree, and they continue to run Swain House
from their cottage next door. At Swan House, a
flat above the guest rooms suits Brendans more
singular lifestyle down to the ground.
ART AND FLOWERS
offered us a good quality family life, says David.

The trick is to find a niche in an established
area or to spot up-and-coming places. When
Brendan and Lionel opened Swan House,
Hastings looked decidedly risky; now its a
must-do for London weekenders. And Brendan
is not fazed by the new B&Bs that have sprung
up alongside their own. A bit of competition
keeps you on your toes, he says.
Another big problem is finding a property that
combines attractive guest rooms and a decent
living space for the owners. In most of the B&Bs
we looked at, the accommodation was really
CLOCKWISE FROM
ABOVE Swain House near
Minehead is decorated in
an on-trend grey palette;
breakfast is made from
locally sourced produce;
bedrooms are given the
wow factor with a wall
of custom-made digital
wallpaper, each featuring
a detail from a National
Gallery masterpiece
The fun bit is doing up the rooms and, aside

from quality bedding and efficient plumbing,
there are no rules. Its all about individuality and
character, says Wendy Ogden, editor of Alastair
Sawdays British Bed & Breakfast.
Fashions come and go: the tired boutique trend
for splodgy wallpaper and Ikea has been largely
replaced by grey colour schemes furnished with
a mix of modern designer, distressed vintage
and mid-century retro furniture, scattered with
unusual collectables. Swan House has this
timeless, eclectic style off to a tee, though,
according to Brendan, the devil is in the detail:
fresh flowers, handmade soaps, glasses of sherry,
cakes, cushy sofas and open fires add value.
Swain House installed luxury slipper baths in
two of its bathrooms, added REN toiletries and
cotton robes and gave a wow-factor to rooms by
hanging a wall of custom-made digital wallpaper
(each a striking detail from a National Gallery
masterpiece). Venton Vean went for a clean and
classic look: white floors, splashes of vivid
FOWEY, CORNWALL, 650,000

Upton House in Fowey, on
Cornwalls south-east coast, is
run as a five-star B&B with four
guest suites and a shop with
rental potential. May Whetter
& Grose (01726 832299,
maywhetter.co.uk).
CROMER, NORFOLK, 736,000

With scope for conversion,
this four-storey Georgian house
(above left) on Cromers seafront
has seven bedrooms, three
bathrooms and a verandah
overlooking the beach. Savills
(01603 229210, savills.co.uk).
STRANRAER, SCOTLAND,
515,000
A family-run B&B, Corsewall
Lighthouse (still operational) has
six letting rooms, a restaurant,
three self-catering suites and
19 acres of land. Christie + Co
(0141 352 7300, christie.com).
MINEHEAD, SOMERSET,
599,900
This modern eco-house in
Minehead has five bedrooms,
three bathrooms, a lift, a sauna
and views of the Bristol Channel.
Fine & Country (01643 700210,
fineandcountry.com).
7 9 CO A S T
coastal colour and an eclectic mix of vintage

and scandinavian design alongside local art.
We didnt want to go too far down the seaside
theme, says David. It seemed too much of a
clich. as seasoned travellers, he and Philippa
based many of their decisions on things theyd
liked in other hotels. We tried to create the kind
of place wed like to stay in ourselves, he says.
Facing up to realities
these days the pair dont get much time for
holidays. Far from glamorous, the B&B life is
a round of early-morning starts, late check-ins,
paperwork, health and safety, the pressures of
managing the markets high expectations and
the occasional guests from hell. the majority of
people are lovely, says David. But theres that
five per cent who are out to trip you up or test
your boundaries. He is haunted, he admits, by
the fear of the negative online review.
His advice to novices is to farm out the laundry
(by far the biggest headache), take a month or
two off in winter and not to underestimate the
hard work of a busy high season. We knew it
wasnt going to be easy, but we didnt envisage
the long hours. From Easter until the end of
october were on the go seven days a week.
our first season was really tough.
and however tired, you cant afford to let
standards slip an inch; you have to keep smiling.
sometimes I feel a bit like a swan on a lake,
says Jason. on the surface it looks elegant and
serene, just gliding along, but underneath its
paddling like mad.
Worth the eFFort?

Get the sums right and you can earn a healthy
income. as a rough guide, four guest rooms
(less than three is rarely viable), sold at 90 a
night for three nights a week for 10 months of
the year provides a turnover of 43,200. there
will be better returns in high season or in
all-year-round city locations but its safer to
calculate your income based on 30 per cent
occupancy. and dont forget to factor in
overheads and costs: breakfast, cleaning,
8 0 co ast
cLocKWIsE FRoM
aBoVE LEFt Owners of
Swan House, Brendan
McDonagh and Lionel
Copley; Swan House
in Hastings Old Town
is considered to be
a blueprint of the
quintessential five-star
boutique hotel; Artisan
is one of four eclectic
bedrooms; the interior
of the 15th-century
building oozes charm
and character
laundry, marketing, maintenance, taxes,

business rates and all those little extras that
justify charging a premium rate or give a
B&B an extra edge. It is important to keep
re-investing so that the rooms dont start to
look tired, says David.
the sensible way to fund a B&B business is
to trade in a high-value city home for a small
mortgage (or an outright purchase) on a larger
seaside property. Buyers who are dependent on
borrowed capital might find their B&B income is
simply servicing a loan which is okay as long
as they are able to maintain a secondary career
and can find the time to devote to it. For many,
the whole business is a tricky balancing act.
Were never going to make a lot of money,
says David. But its great to be your own boss,
and weve got cornwall on our doorstep with
time to enjoy it with our children.
Top tips from eviivo

for starting a new B&B
Finding your dream property Running a successful B&B can
be an ideal working life, but choosing the right property is vital in
building a profitable business, and there is a lot to consider.
FIND A NICHE
Wheres the next best place to be?

Hull, East Yorkshire
The Humberside port is set to become
UK City of Culture in 2017 and offers lots
of large, affordable properties.
South Devon
Try Brixham (home to the thriving
21st-century fish market) and Plymouths
developing waterfront.
Dundee and Fife
The V&As Museum of Design will bring
new life to Dundee when it opens there
in 2017.
Penarth, South Wales
Beautifully located between Cardiff and
the beaches of the Vale of Glamorgan.
South-east Cornwall
Try affordable Looe, with its annual music
festival and serene river valley.
Southport, Merseyside
Avenues of huge Victorian mansions
in salubrious Birkdale and not
much competition.
Isle of Angelsey
The historic town of Beaumaris offers
interesting properties overlooking the
Menai Strait.
Scarborough, North Yorkshire
This traditional resort offers large
properties at affordable prices.
Location, location, location

You need to choose a location
that you are personally happy
with, as well as one that will
attract the type of clientele you
are comfortable hosting.
Seasonality is another
important consideration.
Seaside towns tend to attract
more visitors during the
holidays, but this might suit
your needs and allow you to
travel during the winter.
The amenities around the
property might make your
B&B more popular. If youre
near tourist hotspots, you
may receive foreign as well as
domestic visitors. If youre close
to a stadium, exhibition centre,
or somewhere that hosts a
lot of events, theres a good
chance youll get bookings
throughout the year.
Top Tip Use a calendar to
write down a list of events and
attractions taking place over
a 12-month period in the local
area, including school holidays,
and consider what effect this
will have on your bookings.
Property Once you have
a specific area and target
audience in mind, you need
to choose a property to
meet the demands of your
clients. The dcor, ambience
and facilities all need to be
carefully considered. Know
your audience will they be
seeking a traditional look with
antiques and framed paintings,
or would they prefer a fuss-free
minimalistic look?
If you offer cheap and cheerful
accommodation, then a basic

and clean living space will be
sufficient, just as long as thats
reflected in the pricing.
Facilities Nowadays, most
visitors expect high-speed
internet access, and if you
anticipate business trade, you
might offer a room with a desk.
If you expect that children will
be staying regularly, think about
investing in some toys, DVDs
and even a games console to
keep them entertained.
You and your family If youre
going to live in the B&B side by
side with guests, its important
to ensure youve chosen a
property that can comfortably
accommodate your loved ones.
Everyone needs their space,
so it would be wise to have
separate living quarters. You
could soundproof your house,
which makes it easier to keep
business and home life separate.
One final consideration to make
your life as easy as possible is
a streamlined property
management software package
to save you time, effort, and
money. There are packaged
services that offer affordable and
efficient booking management,
mobile web-design and online
marketing. They bring the
guests, you run the business.
eviivo is a web booking and
management system which
helps B&Bs improve their
online marketing and booking
processes. For more ideas and
advice about setting up and
running a successful B&B, visit
www.eviivo.com/my-bb
8 1 CO A S T
coast TRAVEL
SLUG
H IS TO RIC
H ID E AWAYS
With eccentric architecture and walls steeped in

history, these extraordinary rentals will transport your
seaside holidays back in time
PHOTOGRAPHS MIKE HENTON/NATIONAL TRUST HOLIDAYS, JERSEY HERITAGE
WORDS Madeleine Barber
8 2 CO AST
8 2 CO AST
FORT LEICESTER
BOULEY BAY, TRINITY, JERSEY
WHY HERE? Fort Leicester was built in the

19th century to defend the north coast of
Jersey against French invasion. On the
lower level, inside a German searchlight
position that was added during the islands
occupation in World War II, youll find a
kitchen, lounge and dining area with patio
doors that open onto a terrace. The
guardhouse on the upper level contains
the bedrooms and bathrooms, which are
divided into separate buildings accessed
by outdoor paths. Its remote location means
that theres no TV signal, making it the ideal
spot for a digital detox.

WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? The original

stone walls and convex ceilings are painted
a bright white and amalgamated with
exposed brickwork throughout. The largest
bedroom sits on the top level and houses a
wood-burning stove.
WHERES THE NEAREST BEACH? The stony
beach and deep waters of Bouley Bay are a
short descent from the fort.
WHAT DOES IT COST? Prices start at
1,188 per week. Sleeps eight.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call 01534 633304 or
visit jerseyheritage.org.
coast SLUG
DOYDEN CASTLE
PORT QUIN, CORNWALL
WHY HERE? As if the breathtaking ocean views werent

enough to entice you, this cliff-top hideaway has a
decadent history of feasting, drinking and all-round
merriment. The building was erected in 1830 by a wealthy
hedonist named Samuel Symons, who would entertain his
friends here the wine bins in the cellar remain to this day.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? Two original arched stone
windows flood the spacious bedroom with light, while a
country-style kitchen with roaring fire is ideal for preparing a
romantic meal. A dining table with sweeping sea views
adds to the romance.
WHERES THE NEAREST BEACH? The popular beaches of
Rock, Polzeath and Port Isaac are all within four miles.
WHAT DOES IT COST? For two to stay for seven nights,
prices start at 725.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call 0344 335 1287 or visit
nationaltrustholidays.org.uk.
8 3 CO A S T
coast TRAVEL
SLUG
WOODSPRING
PRIORY
KEWSTOKE, WESTON-SUPER-MARE,
SOMERSET
PHOTOGRAPHS THE LANDMARK TRUST, IRISH LANDMARK TRUST, ENGLISH HERITAGE
WHY HERE? The atmosphere is so serene

you can almost hear an apple drop from a
tree in the orchard next door.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? Period
features abound. At the dining table, you
can look up into the original church tower.
WHERES THE NEAREST BEACH? 500m.
WHAT DOES IT COST? For four nights,
prices start from 476. Sleeps eight.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call 01628 825925 or
visit landmarktrust.org.uk.
8 4 CO AST
8 4 CO AST
PEVERELLS TOWER
DOVER, KENT
WHY HERE? Perched atop the white cliffs

of Dover, views from Peverells Tower
incorporate France on a clear day. This
Norman tower was added to Dover Castle
in the 13th century by Henry III. During a
stay here, visitors have after-hours access
to the grounds and battlements of Dover
Castle ideal for exploring at sunset.

WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? Archaic
surroundings are intermingled with luxury
modern furnishings to give the interior the
feel of a boutique B&B.
WHERES THE NEAREST BEACH?
A 20-minute walk away.
WHAT DOES IT COST? Prices start at
701 per week. Sleeps two.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call 0370 333 1187 or
visit english-heritage.org.uk.
MAGHERINTEMPLE
LODGE
BALLYCASTLE, CO ANTRIM,
NORTHERN IRELAND
TORRISDALE CASTLE
CARRADALE, ARGYLL
WHY HERE? Torrisdale Castle was built in

1815 with the help of Scottish architect
James Gillespie Graham. Its walls are made
of quarried sandstone and a turreted
entrance porch exudes romance.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? Try the
Servants Quarters for a luxurious stay, far

from how those rooms would have

appeared in the 19th century. Guests here
also enjoy exclusive use of a sauna and hot
tub on the banks of the nearby river.
WHERES THE NEAREST BEACH?
Torrisdale Bay is a 10-minute stroll away.
WHAT DOES IT COST? Prices for the
Servants Quarters start from 750 per
week. Sleeps six.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call 01583 431233
or visit torrisdalecastle.com.
WHY HERE? This gatehouse lodge guards

the entrance to a grand Georgian property.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? Homely and
comfortable with terracotta floors.
WHERES THE NEAREST BEACH? Less than
two miles away youll find Ballycastle Beach.
WHAT DOES IT COST? From 231 for a
weekend. Sleeps four.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call +353 1 670 4733 or
visit irishlandmark.com.
coast SLUG
BATH TOWER
CAERNARFON, GWYNEDD, NORTH WALES

WHY HERE? According to legend and Welsh imagination,
Caernarfon is the seat of Imperial power. So when Edward I
came to constructing his castle in the late-13th century,
he made sure that it was superior to all the other Welsh
battlements: look closely and youll see that its brickwork
appears multicoloured. Bath Tower is one of eight built into
the castle wall it has sweeping views of the Menai Strait
and is as close to the sea as you could wish to be.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? A spiral staircase links
the ground-floor sleeping quarters of Edwardian garrison
soldiers to a sitting room and kitchen. The third floor is
made up of a double bedroom and sea-facing terrace.
WHERES THE NEAREST BEACH? Shingle shores are a
short stroll across the Afon Seiont.
WHAT DOES IT COST? Prices start from 258 for four
nights. Sleeps five.
HOW DO I BOOK? Call 01628 825925 or visit
landmarktrust.org.uk.
8 5 CO A S T
coast PEOPLE
SOURCED FROM
THE SEA
When Dom Bridges visited Margate, little did he know it would one day
be his home and the inspiration for a range of natural products
WORDS Sheryl Garratt PHOTOGRAPHS Ben Gold
8 6 CO AST
coast people
LEFt Dom heads back to his lab with armfuls of seaweed gathered from the Kent coastline cLocKWIsE, FRoM toP Bladderwrack seaweed is in plentiful supply in this
area; old pictures of Margate feature in Doms shop; products are packaged in old-fashioned, medicine-style bottles; a Haeckels perfume, complete with testing strips
8 7 co a s t
coast people
cLocKWIsE, FRoM toP Dom works with a lab to ensure products are packed with natural ingredients; part of the shop resembles a mad professors lab; herbal
smudge sticks are designed to fragrance the air when lit; old museum cases are used to display products RIGHt Doms latest project is a quirky sea bathing machine
8 8 co ast
coast people
om Bridges was sitting on the

seafront in his adopted home
of Margate, enjoying a beer,
when inspiration came. It was
a couple of years ago and at
the time he was working in advertising
as an art director. Hed just been
on a photo shoot in china, where
seaweed is a staple part of the diet
and growing and gathering it is big
business. then I came back here
and sat outside the pub with my beer.
Everyone was moaning about the
smell of the seaweed washed up
on the beach but I was thinking that
it could be the way forward, he says.
He began to wonder if this waste
could be turned into something beautiful
and useful. so he did some research
and made some soaps using the
bladderwrack seaweed that is in plentiful
supply on this part of the Kent coast.
For christmas, he gave the soaps to
friends, who loved them. as a result,
Haeckels was born a company making

soaps, scents and a range of gorgeous
products using seaweed and other
natural ingredients from the surrounding
area. the name Haeckels came from
Ernst Haeckel, a 19th-century botanist
whose detailed illustrations of sealife
Dom has admired since art school. Id
like to think there was as much care and
attention put into what were doing here,
as Ernst devoted to his drawings of the
natural world, he says.
the Haeckels shop sits high on the hill
above Margates turner contemporary
art Gallery, and just around the corner
from the home Dom shares with wife
Jo and their baby Dulcie. Inside the shop
is a seductive mix of mad professors lab
and old apothecary outlet. on a shelf
under bell jars sit bottles of Doms range
of eight scents, while museum-like
display cases show off other products,
such as sailors Beard oil (which may
soon become simply Haeckels Hair
oil, due to its popularity with women),

seaweed bath concentrate, lip balm
and scented candles. the shop has
only been open a year but feels as if
it has been there forever, and has fast
become a focal point for the towns
growing population of young creatives.
tailors, furniture designers, architects
and artists theyre all coming to live
here, says Dom, an extravagantly
bearded man with a ready laugh and
seemingly endless enthusiasm for
the business.
Time for change

Dom and Jo first came to Margate in
2009, when on their honeymoon. they
were married in Dungeness and drove
back to London afterwards, stopping
off at coastal towns en route. Margate
was their first overnight stop, and they
found its empty, dilapidated seafront
eerily beautiful and sad. We wandered
around all night, says Dom,
8 9 co a s t
coast people
just taking photographs of this bleak
place. We loved it, because it reminded
us of Havana in cuba, with all those
echoes of former grandeur.
a few months later, the two were
about to buy a place in London when
they got caught up in a bidding war
that seemed to sum up everything they
felt was wrong with the capital. they
pulled out, and were considering making
a life for themselves in Los angeles
when they went back to Margate for
a weekend. once there, they were
astonished to see how the town had
changed in such a short space of time.
the turner contemporary had opened
and the old town had become a hub for
quirky boutiques, cool cafs and vintage
shops, yet the area still had the edginess
that they loved in London. It was the
best of both worlds, Dom recalls, and
to us felt like multiculturalism by the sea!
Dom had enjoyed a fantastic time
in advertising, living the high life in New
York and Venice Beach in california, but
9 0 co ast
he was ready for something new by

the time they made their move to the
Kent coast. You start to realise that
youre putting all of your creative soul
into selling things that you perhaps dont
believe in; that dont really contribute to
the planet. and colossal sums of money
are being spent doing it, he says.
Sea ScentS
In complete contrast to that former life,
Dom has now learnt myriad new skills.
Jo used to say I was a workaholic
when I was an art director, but now
Im just completely obsessed. Id be in
here all hours of the day if I could, he
smiles. He knows how to dehydrate
seaweed so that you can tip it into a
piping hot bath where it forms a gel-like,
skin-nourishing film on the water. He
makes carbon dioxide infusions and
steam distillations, and works closely
with a fully certified lab in oxford to
pack as high a proportion of good,
natural ingredients into his products as
possible. For centuries, farmers used

the local seaweed as fertiliser, which
explains why the soil in this part of
Kent is so good, points out Dom. Its
also the same seaweed thats used in
many other high-end products, from
toothpaste to the luxury skincare brand
crme de la Mer.
there is an abundance of amazing
plants and incredible smells across
all the different bays and coves here.
It was those scents that led me to the
perfumes, he explains. His fragrances
dont have names, they have GPs
(global positioning system) codes,
so you can seek out the places that
inspired them. Where youre stood
should smell like the fragrance in
the bottle, because thats where the
ingredients came from, Dom explains.
His star is rising. Hes been
approached by fashion designers,
and by a hip boutique hotel chain
who likes the idea of bespoke scents,
using ingredients local to their
coast people
LEFt Each perfume has a GPS code so you can seek out the place that inspired the fragrance cLocKWIsE, FRoM toP Dom has taken on a local lad to help out in the lab;
Haeckels perfumes are displayed under bell jars; boxes for the scented rain candles Pluviophile is a person who loves the smell of rain; bottled up and ready to go
9 1 co a s t
coast people
hotels. and while there is a website, most

of the products are sold to people who
make the pilgrimage to Haeckels, which
pleases Dom as he wants to promote
the town and its natural resources.
Hes also worked hard to become part
of the community. as well as gathering
seaweed from Walpole Bay, he collects
rubbish to help keep the beach clean.
He organises regular community beach
clean-ups, with food provided by Forts,
a cool little caf just a couple of doors
down from Haeckels.
Working With Waves

Doms latest project is an eccentric
sea bathing machine, a mobile sauna
resembling a traditional horse-drawn
caravan that can be rolled down to the
waves, so the sea can be used as a
natural plunge pool, where therapists
can offer massages and treatments
right on the beach. the council

approved the idea but had no money
to fund it, so Dom appealed for the
30,000 start-up costs via the crowdfunding site Kickstarter (kickstarter.com),
and the Margate community carried it
along. Upcycler Paul Firbank contacted
his friend Grand Designs guru Kevin
Mccloud, who tweeted it. a local
journalist got the story in The Guardian,
and businesses spread the word via
their email lists. Within 40 days, all of
the money had been raised. It was
such a buzz, Dom grins. Its only
going to exist because people
genuinely want it!
theyre still refining the design. the
chassis is complicated because it has to
be light, yet hardy enough to withstand
seawater; roadworthy so that it can
be towed to the local bays; and also
affordable, because ideally hed love
to have them in nearby Ramsgate and

Broadstairs and anywhere people want
them. Its about using the beach out of
season. seeing people lying around in
hooded bathrobes would be fantastic!
and if they use it during the winter, then
Ill have done what I wanted to do with it.
Doms constantly full of plans. If he
had the money, hed buy Margates
neglected Lido and turn it into a yearround seaside spa. Instead, he wants
to convert the Haeckels basement into
a treatment centre, offering seaweed
baths, and hes just employed a local lad
to help out in his lab.
all his friends are moving to London
and I overheard him say the other day:
Why would I want to go when Ive
just found the best job here?, says
Dom. that, by far, was the biggest
compliment weve had to date.
To find out more, visit haeckels.co.uk.
cLocKWIsE, FRoM toP LEFt The Haeckels shop in Margate; Doms collection of old photos displayed in his store include these of the Lido at Cliftonville in its heyday.
He would love to transform this neglected area into a seaside spa; product displays are reminiscent of a traditional apothecary
9 2 co ast
coast PEOPLE
DOMS MARGATE
FAVOURITE SPOTS
I like sitting in the shelters, just looking
out to sea. I love places such as the
sandy bays between Margate and
Broadstairs: Walpole Bay, Botany Bay
and Minnis Bay, where my beach hut is.
PEDAL POWER
You can take a bike and ride out from
Margate along the Viking Coastal Trail
(visitthanet.co.uk). Its 32 miles of
paved track with the sea on your right
all the way its amazing, says Dom.
It also goes past the magnificent ruin
of Reculver Towers, where one of our
perfumes is based. Reculver is thought
to be one of the sites where the Roman

army landed in AD43.
IF YOU HAVE TWO DAYS
For a weekend in Margate, Id
recommend having a look round
the Turner Contemporary Art Gallery
(turnercontemporary.org), then take
a wander around the Old Town, making
sure you check out Breuer & Dawson
(breuerdawson.com) for a well-curated
selection of great vintage clothing. Then,
on Sunday, hire a bike to ride out to
Reculver and have Sunday lunch at The
Minnis Bar & Restaurant (theminnnis.co.uk)
overlooking the bay.
9 3 CO A S T
coast GARDENS
9 4 co ast
coast GARDENS
Art in the
open Air
The Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden in St Ives continues to evoke

its famous creator 40 years after her death
or the best part of the year,

st Ives is a noisy place. the
tightly packed houses and
crowded streets teem with
excited holiday-makers, the gulls scream
overhead, the church clock peals to
its own eccentric metre of time, dogs
bark, and down by the harbour,
a hum of traffic, people and boats
reverberates well into the night. Yet
at the bottom of a steep cobbled hill
in the middle of town, behind cool white
walls, there exists a peaceful haven
of calm. this tranquil green oasis is
trewyn studio and garden, where the
sculptor Barbara hepworth came to
live and work in 1949 until her death
40 years ago this month.
a friendly rival of henry Moore, with
whom she studied at the Royal college
of art, hepworth was one of the most
important Modernist sculptors of the
20th century. her work can be found all
over the world, but the best examples
are to be seen at trewyn in st Ives: her
beloved former home and garden in
cornwall. Now managed under the
auspices of the tate, the garden is
crammed full of her distinctive forms
with their undulating curves, pierced
eyes and hollow spaces.
to wander around trewyn is a joy:
the garden is not large only around
WoRDs & PhotogRaPhs Emma Inglis
half an acre but it perfectly combines

the beauty of planting with hepworths
stone and bronze sculptures. Birds
abound, as do the butterflies, darting
in late spring between great clumps of
pink and violet cinerarias, pelargoniums
and regal lilies. the sculptures beg
to be touched: some are big enough to
enter. the shapes seem oddly familiar;
forms snatched from nature, assuring,
comforting blending seamlessly into
their surrounds. It all serves to remind
the bronze
sculptures beg
to be touched
you of hepworths skill as an artist:

some of her pieces are so fluid that
they appear not made but rather to
inhabit the landscape.
Finding trewyn was a sort of magic,
hepworth wrote of the studio. she had
bought it at auction: the building and
small garden had, at one time, belonged
to trewyn house next door. originally
intended as a place purely for work,
within a year the modest studio had also
become hepworths home, when her
marriage to the artist Ben Nicholson
ended. there had been tensions in
the relationship for some time. Before
coming to cornwall the couple had lived

in London, and hepworth had enjoyed
a growing reputation among the artistic
elite. But four small children three of
them triplets and the outbreak of the
second World War in 1939 saw the family
flee London for cornwall and move to
a house in carbis Bay, next to st Ives.
endless inspiration
In carbis Bay, relations between the
couple became increasingly strained
as a frustrated hepworth was forced
to put domesticity before art. the
break-down of the marriage and the
move to trewyn saw hepworth throw
herself back into her work easier
now that her children were at boarding
school and re-establish herself
among the artistic cognoscenti.
at trewyn, hepworth could carve in
the open air, in all seasons, and connect
with the community, the sea and the
rugged cornish landscape. she was in
her element. the barbaric and magical
countryside of West Penwith, with its
rocky hills, fertile valleys and dramatic
coastline, had a profound effect on her.
Not only was it a glorious reminder of
the Yorkshire landscape of her childhood
and endlessly inspiring, it also provided
her with one of her greatest needs for
carving: a strong sunlight and radiance
oPPosItE, cLocKWIsE FRoM toP LEFt The flowers of Abutilon vitifolium provide spring colour; pathways lined with established planting wind
their way through the garden; undulating curves, pierced eyes and hollow spaces are characteristic of Barbara Hepworths work; the sculpture
Cantate Domino is set off by plants chosen for their form or leaf texture; circular apertures offer changing views in and out of the stone form;
work is showcased in viewing spaces on high plinths within the garden; hidden away behind white walls, the garden in Trewyn is an oasis of calm
9 5 co a s t
coast GARDENS
Trewyns mild climaTe and shelTering

walls encouraged The kind of
planTing familiar To cornish gardens
from the sea which almost surrounds

this spit of land.
a living canvas
But her new home and its surrounds
were not just a canvas for her art,
they were a canvas for activity. the
garden was her first, and there was
much to do. Hepworth called on the
help of gardening friends to design it.
chief among these was the composer
Priaulx Rainier, who had a small garden
nearby and possessed an encyclopaedic
knowledge of plants; and Will arnoldForster, author of Shrubs For The Milder
Counties, who had created a beautiful
garden at his home, Eagles Nest,
in nearby Zennor. together the three
friends planned a garden that would
be a showcase for Hepworths sculpture:
a gallery en plein air (in the open air).
turf replaced the old lawn; rockeries
and terraces were built; a shallow pond
was rescued and reconstructed; and
a flurry of planting took place. trewyns
mild climate and sheltering walls were
a bonus, encouraging the kind of
planting familiar to cornish gardens:
fuchsias, camellias, ferns and magnolias,
as well as the more exotic ginkgo biloba,
a chusan palm, and a clump of bamboo
with magnificent thick green stems.
the sculptures were placed on plinths
in viewing spaces, and set off by plants
liked by Hepworth for their form or leaf
texture. there was no scarcity of buyers:
they came and went all the time.
today, a heady scent of leaf and
flower accompanies the steady stream
of visitors that troop along the maze of
overgrown narrow paths in this exotic
paradise where plant and form coexist
in perfect harmony. sunlight dapples the
downy underplanting and glints through
9 6 co ast
the leaves of thickly growing shrubs to

reveal half-hidden bronzes, weathered
stone and a pond speckled with cherry
blossom. shadow patterns break and
reform across the garden. a curled-up
cat dozes in the sinuous arc of a
sculpture, delighting all who see it.
the paths arrive at a summer house
(with daybed, where Hepworth would
snooze), a greenhouse and at Hepworths
workshop: peer in and you can see the
tools she liked to use, as well as her dusty
overalls and a stack of plaster models
from which bronzes would be cast.
although Hepworth continued to
work until her death, at the end of her
life she was becoming increasingly frail.
In 1966, a year after she was made a
Dame commander of the British Empire,
Hepworth was diagnosed with cancer of
the throat, and a fractured hip hindered
her mobility one year later. But her
sudden end, in May 1975, aged 72, still
came as a shock: she died in a fire at
trewyn studio, probably caused by her
dropped cigarette. the garden and its
contents was left undamaged.
Her family carried out her wishes
to turn the house and garden into
a museum, and in 1980 its management
was taken over by the tate. While many
gardens learn to march to a different
tune when their makers move on, the
garden at trewyn remains little changed.
It continues to evoke its famous creator,
maintaining its uncomplicated tranquillity
and its bond of plant and form. the
sculptures are just as Hepworth left
them. a few more shrubs might have
found their way into the garden added
by nurseryman and gardener John
anderson in the Eighties but, for the
most part, the garden people see today
is the same one that Hepworth so loved.
cLocKWIsE. FRoM
RIGHt Barbara
Hepworths work
Sphere With
Inner Form, 1963,
is sometimes
interpreted as a
child in a pregnant
womans womb,
and awakens a
sense of nurture
and protection;
Philadelphus in
bloom in the
garden, where
plants and form
coexisit in perfect
harmony; the
artist looks out
over her beloved
St Ives, which
provided her with
so much artistic
inspiration; this
bustling Cornish
seaside town
became her
home after she
evacuated from
London when the
Second World War
broke out in 1939,
and she lived here
until her sudden

death in 1975,
aged 72; vivid
pink phlox with
their star-shaped
flowers and
captivating
evening scent are
a sight to behold
in the garden at
Trewyn; the bronze
sculpture Spring,
cast in 1966,
is typical of
Hepworths work
and sits in front
of a wooded
backdrop in the
half-acre garden;
Two Forms,
created in 1969,
is considered
to be one of the
countrys most
recognised pieces
of sculpture and
was designed by
the artist after
she was diagnosed
with throat cancer
it is one of only
six others like it
that were cast
coast GARDENS
NEED TO KNOW
BARBARA HEPWORTH MUSEUM
AND SCULPTURE GARDEN
The museum and garden are
open all year round; check the
website for times. Admission 6
(4 concessions); or buy the
combined Tate St Ives/Barbara
Hepworth ticket, which is 10/6
concessions (01736 796226;
tate.org.uk/visit/tate-st-ives/
barbara-hepworth-museum).
GETTING THERE
By train to the mainline station
at Penzance. From Penzance,
travel by train to St Erth before
catching the branch line into
St Ives (firstgreatwestern.co.uk).
By car, take the M5 and then
A30 across Bodmin moor. Leave
the A30 just before Hayle and
take the A3074 into St Ives.
By bus, you can get to St Ives
via a number of routes offered
by First (0871 200 2233,
firstgroup.com).
WHERE TO STAY
Carbis Bay Holidays has two
one-bedroom apartments in
Chy-an-Kerris house in Carbis Bay,
which was Barbara Hepworths
former home. Hepworth and
Pelagos are available to rent
individually or together, and both
enjoy panoramic views across
St Ives Bay from the shared
terrace. Prices from 189 for
three nights at Hepworth, and from
216 for three nights at Pelagos.
Minimum stay three nights
(carbisbayholidays.co.uk).
9 7 CO A S T
coast TRAVEL
Weekend in
Mumbles
Coast editor Alex Fisher explores an

often forgotten Welsh holiday destination,
steeped in history and still full of life
9 8 co ast
coast TRAVEL
Mumbles Lighthouse
has guided vessels into
Swansea Bay for more
than 200 years
9 9 CO A S T
coast TRAVEL
1 00 CO AST
Today Mumbles is better known

for being one of Dylan Thomass
many drinking haunts; the poet and
writer was born just along the coast
in the Uplands area of Swansea
and even mentioned Mumbles in
Under Milk Wood: Alfred Pomeroy
Jones, sea lawyer, born in Mumbles,
sung like a linnet, crowned you with
a flagon, tattooed with mermaids
More recently Catherine Zeta-Jones
has chosen Mumbles for her Welsh
residence, her gated home sitting in
a very normal-looking street of
semi-detached bungalows and
houses. Fellow actor Michael Sheen
is also a frequent visitor, yet there is
no whiff of Hollywood pretensions in
this down-to-earth town. You get
the feeling that this thriving, friendly
community would give these
Hollywood stars exactly the same
welcome it extends to all of its
visitors.
SATURDAY AM
OYSTERMOUTH
10AM CASTLE
You cant visit Mumbles
without visiting its castle. The recent
restoration has revealed previously
hidden stairs that run between the
ABOVE Alex
Fisher went to
see what the
Welsh village
of Mumbles has
to offer
walls of the castle, and added a

visitor centre and a 30-foot high
glass bridge that leads you to the
stunning Lady Alinas chapel
window looking out to sea. Keep
an eye out also for the ghost, a
white lady, who many locals have
reported seeing on the battlements.
The castle is open from April to
September and, at just 6 for a
family ticket, its a thrifty outing
(oystermouthcastle.wordpress.
com).
SATURDAY PM
A LIGHT LUNCH
1PM If you take a right at the
bottom of the High Street
and walk for five minutes you will
find sa3 Bistro tucked away along a
PHOTOGRAPHS ALAMY
s you wander down the

bustling high street, complete
with fishmongers, butchers
and grocers, along with art
galleries and a thriving caf
culture, its easy to picture this
pretty seaside village as the
flourishing Victorian resort it once
was. The five-mile long promenade
stretches all the way to Swanseas
maritime quarter. In the summer,
visitors can take the land train to the
well-preserved pier, where they can
enjoy the same stunning views
across the bay that attracted
hordes of Victorian holiday-makers
at the end of the 19th century.
Before Victorian passion for
seaside holidays, Mumbles was
famous for its oysters, and although
the oysters are no longer here and
the fishermen long gone, an area of
the town still retains the mantle
Oystermouth, as does Oystermouth
Castle, the impressive Norman fort
which overlooks the town. Recently
adopted by the local council and
the community in an admirable
move to preserve this precious
monument, the castle has been
renovated and now offers a unique
and fascinating insight into the
history of these lands.
coast TRAVEL
everlasting love. Catherine ZetaJones gave her wedding guests a

lovespoon, and now visitors can
take one home as a unique
souvenir of their visit to Wales
(01792 360132, lovespoons.co.uk)
FINE DINING
7PM The family-run restaurant
quieter street. Here you can eat a

two-course lunch for just 12.95.
Try the saffron risotto to start, or the
deep fried whitebait with a lemon
mayonnaise. For mains, sa3 offers
seared salmon and lentils, or
pappardelle with asparagus, but
the star of the show is the delicious
homemade bread, served with
extra virgin olive oil (01792 363184,
sa3bistro.com).
LOVESPOONS
3PM Mumbles, I am told, is
home to the only gallery
dedicated to the Welsh lovespoon.
These traditional Welsh courting
gifts date back to medieval times.
The ornately carved handles carry
individual messages of love and
often held a proposal of marriage:
a key represents a home, a bell a
wedding, and a knot the promise of
ABOVE, FROM
FAR LEFT Visit
the recently
renovated
Oystermouth
Castle; brightly
coloured houses
add character;
stop off in sa3
for lunch; locals
are proud of
their new RNLI
boathouse; take
in the sea air at
Caswell Bay;
beach huts at
Langland Bay;
woodland
behind Caswell
Bay offers
lovely walks
at Patricks with Rooms is

a real treat. Locals are passionate
about the great food and visitors
return every year, supporting the
business for the past 20 years.
The service is welcoming and
informative, and diners are often
offered surprising little treats
between courses. I order rack of
Welsh lamb (of course), which is
served with parsnip pure and a
rosemary and red wine jus. The
lamb is tender and perfectly
cooked. I have never eaten better.
This is followed by a delicious
coconut crme brle, which is
served with spiced pineapple
compote. Mains start at around
16, with starters and desserts
priced at around 7 (01792
360199, patrickswithrooms.com).
SUNDAY AM
COASTAL WALKS
10AM After a wonderful
breakfast of fresh fruit
served with yogurt, honey and nuts
at Patricks, I head off for a walk by
the sea. The coastal paths from
between Caswell Bay, Langland
Bay and Bracelet Bay offer stunning

views, and have a concrete path
that you can push a buggy along,
making them very family-friendly.
There are plenty of cafs en route
too, meaning that you can take a
short stroll or a longer trek.
SUNDAY PM
VERDIS
1PM This self-service caf
and ice-cream parlour is
something of a local institution. Its
always busy, even mid-week, even
mid-winter. The people of this small
town enjoy their coastal location
come rain or shine, and this
glass-fronted caf positioned on the
promenade to the west of the bay
has wonderful views of the sea. It
serves pizzas, but with a cycle ride
planned for the afternoon I stick to
a lighter salad with prosciutto and
avocado. However, I cant resist a
scoop of Verdis tempting array of
homemade ice creams, and leave
with delicious cherry flavour in a
chocolate wafer cone (01792
369135, verdis-cafe.co.uk).
SEASIDE CYCLE
3PM Its not hard to be active
in Gower. There are so
many accessible cycle and walking
paths that its no problem to find
a beautiful coastal trail to suit all
ages and abilities. Mumbles is no
exception and a family-friendly cycle
route runs around Swansea Bay.
c oa stma g a zi n e .co.uk
1 0 1 CO A S T
NEED to KNOW
STAY AT
PATRICKS WITH
ROOMS
This spacious boutique
hotel offers individually
decorated rooms that
overlook the bay. The hotel
has a great restaurant and a
friendly lounge bar where
you can enjoy a coffee
during the day, or a cocktail
in the evening. There are
additional rooms in the
Boathouse, behind the main
building, some of which
have superb views out to
sea. Prices start at 115 for
a double (01792 360199,
patrickswithrooms.com).
This car-free route is flat, offers

stunning views, and a selection of
great pit-stop cafs, making it a
perfect and free activity with
children. Patricks with Rooms
offers free use of bikes, as well
as various beach toys and sports
equipment, to its guests and so I
borrow a bike and do the five-mile
route into Swansea.
DINING BY THE SEA

6PM Try to book a table by the
window if you can or,
weather permitting, eat outside
at Castellamare, because the
views over Bracelet Bay towards
Mumbles Lighthouse are glorious.
This family-friendly Italian restaurant
sits just to the west of the town and
has ample parking, plus an outdoor
childrens play area. On my visit I try
SCAMPERHOLIDAYS
This company offers a
range of accommodation,
from beautifully decorated
dinky shepherd huts and
timber tents to campervans
that you can take to
campsites around Gower.
Two nights in a timber tent,
which sleep four people,
costs 175 (01792 202325,
scampervanhire.co.uk).
the scallops with pancetta and a

pea and mint pure, which is
delicious, followed by monkfish in
a white wine sauce. The portions
are large here, so you certainly
wont leave hungry, but be careful
not to over order (01792 369408,
castellamare.co.uk).
As I watch the sunset over the
rolling waves, I decide that this is
a part of Wales I will definitely be
revisiting.
TOP Youll find

plenty to tempt
you at Verdis,
a seafront caf
with excellent
views, while the
restaurant at
Patricks (above)
is perfect for fine
dining. LEFT Sit
and soak up the
Mumbles scenery
1 02 CO AST
HOW TO GET THERE

There are direct
trains to Swansea Bay from
London Paddington, Bristol
Parkway, Cardiff, Newport,
Hereford, Shrewsbury,
Crewe and Manchester (go
to nationalrail.co.uk for train
times). From Swansea you
can get a bus to Mumbles.
By car, it is approximately a
four-hour drive from London
on the M4, and a three-hour
drive from Birmingham.
For more information go to
visitswanseabay.com
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coast SLUG
Meet Alex Ellis-Roswell, the man who is walking 6,500 miles around the entire
British coastline to raise money for a charity that saves lives at sea
words Gabrielle Jaffe
1 04 co ast
coast SLUG
cLocKWIsE, FRoM LEFt Alex at Angle

Lifeboat Station, one of the 236 RNLI stations
across the UK that he is visiting on his walk;
he describes himself as a nomad with a
big beard; St Davids Lifeboat Station,
Wales; the Low lighthouse at Burnham-on
Sea, Somerset; Princess Anne meets crew
at Porthcawl RNLI to commemorate the
stations 50 years of service
lex Ellis-Roswell is harder

to get hold of than a Hollywood
celebrity. It takes almost
a dozen attempts before I manage
to get through to the 21-year-old.
Why the unavailability? Well, the
reason is less glamorous than a stars
packed scheduled, but far more noble.
He is a quarter of the way into his
mission to hike around the whole of
Britain to raise money for the RNLI,
the charity that provides a 24-hour
lifeboat rescue service. as part of his
trek, he is visiting all 236 RNLI stations
across the UK. Its a feat that will take
him two years to complete and will
see him cover a coastline that meanders
over 6,500 miles thats longer than
the coastline of Brazil or India.
Vast stretches by the sea have poor
reception, so when I finally get through
to alex on the phone, its something
of a triumph. Hes walking on a beach
between New Quay and aberystwyth in
Wales and, as we speak, I can hear the
sounds of stones crunching under his
shoes and the howl of the wind

surrounding him. He apologises for
the difficulty in reaching him: thats the
problem with being a nomad, he laughs.
Growing up beside the sea in
Margate, Essex, alex and his family
had always been supporters of the
RNLI. When his father passed away
at the end of 2013, he was inspired to
attempt this challenge that had been on
his bucket list for a long time. I wanted
to do something completely different, to
change my environment, he explains.
I thought it would be a good way to
raise awareness and cash for the
RNLI and to see my own country.
on 3 august last year on his late
fathers birthday alex set off from
Minnis Bay, five miles down the road
from Margate. It was hot and sunny
and the extent of the physical and
psychological challenge that lay ahead
hadnt yet dawned on him. Hed put
his tent up for the first time just the
night before he left. Hed packed his
20kg backpack only that morning.
CAUGHT IN A STORM
Barely a few days in, alex faced his
first test. Hurricane Bertha decided to
visit the UK just as he was camped out
on Dungeness, a highly exposed spit
of shingle extending out into the English
channel. He squirrelled away in his tent
for two days, only coming out to re-peg
it. It was probably the worst place to
be in a hurricane, he remembers, but it
was also intensely exciting. theres only
a sheet of canvas between you and the
full force of Mother Nature. You feel very
vulnerable but its also quite liberating.
this was far from alexs only trial. He
has had to lie flat on the ground to avoid
being blown off cliffs and has trooped
through gusts of hail, being blown, like
1 0 5 co a s t
coast SLUG
cLocKWIsE, FRoM LEFt Camping

on dunes in Camber Sands, Sussex;
the Gower Peninsula; Brynachs
Church, Cwm-yr-Eglwys; Brixham,
Devon; Exmouth RNLI harbour
master Steve takes Alex across
the River Exe; Newquay Harbour,
Cornwall; kite-surfers between
Weymouth and Portland, Dorset; a
cup of tea with Isle of Wight locals
a power-shower of pins. In the Isle

of Wight, he woke up on the beach
covered in sandhoppers, which
remained in his rucksack and on his
person for a good week afterwards.
In cornwall, he once found himself
locked in a church overnight, unsure
whether someone would return to
open up the following morning or not
until the following sunday.
then theres the slow toll that walking
10-20 miles a day has taken on his
knees and the strain of being parted
from loved ones, especially on difficult
dates, such as the anniversary of
his fathers death, when poor reception
can make it impossible even to speak
on the phone.
SIGHTS TO REMEMBER
But the road has been full of the beautiful
and the breathtaking, too: butterflies
flitting over the cliffs of New Haven; the
wild goats, castles and church ruins of
the Jurassic coast; the wooded valleys,
waterfalls and cobbled villages of
1 06 co ast
Devon; a dappled sunrise over

the picturesque cornish port of
Newlyn; and the sight of a pod
of dolphins leaping out of calm
waters on the Welsh coast.
alexs most stand-out memories,
however, are of the people he has
met, such as the cancer sufferer who
joined him for a stretch in Wales and
shared with him her inspiring story
of walking every Welsh footpath to
raise money, or the 78-year-old he
encountered mid-swim in Falmouth
harbour in late November a swim
that the septuagenarian vowed he
does every day of the year.
another surprising meeting came
at Porthcawl Lifeboat station, in Wales,
where alex was persuaded to stay on
an extra day, so he could see Princess
anne, who was visiting that afternoon.
I thought Id end up in the crowd,
taking photos, he says. But they
made me go upstairs, with my muddy
boots and big beard to join the other
dignitaries. I dont know what she made
of me, but she seemed interested in

what I was doing because its a charity
she really supports.
A HELPING HAND
Equally unexpected was the kindness
of strangers that alex experienced.
one time, after he tweeted that his tent
was broken and that he had woken up
in a church doorway covered in ice,
a man called Paul drove four hours to
bring him a new tent. He got home at
3am that night and went into work the
next day, says alex. I didnt know him
at all. It was just incredible.
I am hugely grateful to everyone
who has helped me along the way, he
continues, recalling all the times when
he has gone into a pub at the end of a
cold, rainy day, expecting to have one
drink before finding somewhere to
camp for the night only to be offered a
coast PEOPLE
Alexs coAstAl
highlights
The five best stretches of
British coastline that Alex
has walked so far, from Kent,
clockwise, to northern Wales:
Dungeness, Kent
Britains only desert, with
a nuclear power station
dominating the flat landscape,
a miniature steam railway and
some of the best freshly-caught
fish, available to buy from the
many sheds. a unique place.
Isle of Wight
warm bed and hospitality by a B&B

owner or local resident.
social media has helped, too. ten
years ago, the best that someone like
alex could have hoped for was the
odd mention in a local newspaper.
Now, hundreds of people are following
his story via Facebook and twitter,
and he has had dozens of people
who he has never met reach out to
him to either donate money or their
time, to accompany him for stretches
of his long journey.
Ive already had people send me
messages saying theyre looking
forward to meeting me when Im up in
scotland, alex reveals. I dont know
what it is about the sea perhaps its
because it can be such a dangerous
environment that makes those who
live beside it more community-minded,
more likely to look out for each other.
Meeting the people around the coast
has been the greatest highlight for me.
Perhaps the most inspiring people
alex have come across have been
the RNLI volunteers themselves. the

RNLI is essentially an emergency
service, run entirely on donations. and
as a nation with a huge coastline, its
a service we simply could not do
without, explains alex, who points out
that the volunteers give up their time
and risk their lives to save strangers
without being paid. they are the
genuine definition of heroes.
Its the example of these volunteers
that keeps alex going despite the
squalls, the falls, and the separation
from his friends and family on this
long walk round.
MAKe A Note!
At the time of going to press, Alex
had raised over 4,500 towards his
10,000 target for the RNLI. To donate,
visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/
longwalkround. To follow his progress,
see his Facebook account (facebook.
com/alexellisroswell), Twitter (twitter.
com/ellisroswell) or follow the
hashtag #longwalkround.
From pine tree forests in the

north, with hidden beaches
looking out across the solent,
to the vast cliff and open rolling
landscape of the south. the
south had some of the clearest
night skies Ive seen. also lots
of red squirrels!
Lizard Point to
Mullion Cove, Cornwall
theres nothing here but
the power of nature. Its just
towering rock cliffs and ocean.
Ilfracombe, Devon, to
Minehead, Somerset
this walk along the coast of
North Devon takes you down
into magical-looking forested
valleys and over the top of
Exmoor where the moor falls
steeply into the Bristol channel.
Cardigan to Aberporth,
Ceredigion, Wales
this stretch of coast will
always stand out to me simply
because its where I saw my
first dolphins in the wild.
1 0 7 co a s t
coast ACTIVE
TRY IT NoW
RoLLeRBLADING
on Brighton seafront
Get your skates on! Rollerblading isnt just for

kids its great for fitness and fun, too, as
Hazel Sillver found out when she went for a spin
PHOTOGRAPHS Jon Spong
ike many things from

the 1980s, rollerblading
has been enjoying a
resurgence in popularity.
and while some trends from that
time (shell suits and ra-ra skirts,
for instance) are best left there,
it seems people are pleased that
skating is back with a vengeance.
Recently, many leisure centres
have begun to host roller discos,
and in cities such as London,
hundreds of rollerbladers now
gather for weekly street skates.
the reason for our love of
rollerblading isnt hard to fathom.
Rolling around on four wheels is
fun! although it doesnt feel like
exercise, it is brilliant for flexibility,
co-ordination and aerobic strength.
skating is comparable to running
and cycling in terms of calories
burnt per hour, says top skating
instructor asha Kirkby, whose
company skatefresh runs private
and group classes in London and
Brighton. Its also great for
anyone overweight who hasnt
exercised for a while, because
they can start off gently.
Rollerblading is also incredibly
social. Rollerbladers are, by and
large, a friendly bunch, who are
happy to share their skills with
newcomers. Its a brilliant family
1 08 co ast
activity, too, says asha. I have

several clients who learn as
a family. sometimes the adults
are reluctant to begin with,
but they soon get addicted.
12PM BOOTS ON
HaVING a Go
Hazel Sillver joins
the Skatefresh
beginners
workshop on
Brighton seafront
Whenever the sun is shining

where I live in Brighton, the
rollerbladers come out to play.
they whizz along the seafront
and, upon the smooth tarmac
of the skate areas, or pads,
they weave in and out of cones
and dance about, usually with
a smile on their faces.
the last time I was on roller
skates was when I was about 12
years old. Back then, I used to
tear along the family drive from the
front lawn to the back, using the
grass as a brake. today, despite
being 36, I fancied having another
go and learning to stop! and Im
not alone. several other 30- and
40-somethings have gathered for
the monthly skatefresh beginners
workshop on Brighton seafront.
12:15PM LESSONS
IN FALLING OVER
When everyone has booted up,
asha, who is teaching us this
afternoon, begins by showing us
how to fall over correctly. there
AS
coast ACTIVE
SK the Pro
ASK the Pro

Asha Kirkby is the founder
of Skatefresh and the
UK director of ICP, the
international body that trains
and qualifies skate teachers.
I found my first pair of roller
skates in a skip when I was 10. at that time,
an ice rink was being built where I lived in
oxford and my plan was to get really good
roller skating and then become an ice skater.
But I fell in love with roller skating and
decided to stick with it. I won the under-13s
National Figure Roller skating championships,
and Ive been skating ever since.
I qualified as an instructor in 1999 and
started skatefresh, teaching rollerblading in
London. Im also lucky to teach all over the
world for IcP. In 2008, I came down to Brighton
and started teaching here as well. Back then,
there wasnt much of a skate scene now
its really blossoming. I love teaching skaters
anywhere, but its great doing it by the sea.
1 0 9 co a s t
coast ACTIVE
are good and bad ways to go

down, she says. the worst is to
stand too upright in your boots
and fall backwards.
adjacent to the seafront is a
large expanse of grass. strapped
into our obligatory knee and
wrist guards, we all copy asha
in purposefully falling over in
a safe manner. Land on your
knees first, then slide on to your
wrist guards, she explains as she
demonstrates. My body resists,
but once I do it, it doesnt hurt
since the guards are solid bowls
of cushioning and hard plastic.
12:30PM FEELING STABLE

on the safety of the grass, asha
shows us how to stand up
without toppling over and then
teaches us the ready position.
this is the stable stance that
should be returned to whenever
we feel wobbly. Your knees
should be bent, pressed against
the front of your boots, she says,
demonstrating. Keep your arms
stretched out in front this keeps
you steady and ensures that you
land comfortably if you fall.
We all copy, at first making the
mistake of sticking our bottoms
out and not pressing into the front
of our boots. When I eventually
bend my knees sufficiently, the
ready position feels very stable.
1 10 co ast
cLocKWIsE,
FRoM aBoVE
Hazel tries a
sharp turn under
the watchful eye
of Skatefresh
instructor Asha
Kirkby; she gets
a helping hand
rolling on the
promenade; its
important she
bends her knees
over her boots
to stay balanced;
wrist guards
must be worn;
rollerblades are a
type of roller
skate with wheels
set in a line under
the boot; to stay
steady, Hazel
keeps her arms
outstretched;
skate wheels have
to be tightened
12:45PM READY TO ROLL

then it was time to head out
on to the tarmac. the skate
pad at the Hove Lawns area of
Brighton seafront is a smooth
patch of the promenade, right
next to the beach. We were lucky
to be rollerblading on a warm
day and the sun danced upon
the waves, just metres away.
We propel ourselves by making
small, V-shaped steps and then
rolling into our ready positions.
We also learn a cruising stance
called the scissor, which involves
having one leg gliding slightly
in front of the other. the scissor
is a stable stance to use when
you have to skate over something
bumpy, such as a drain cover,
asha tells us.
heel brake, says asha. once you

improve, you can take it off and
use the t-stop and other stops.
1:45PM GOING
ROUND THE BEND
Its time to learn how to turn. asha
elegantly demonstrates a parallel
turn, serenely gliding around a
corner with her arms outstretched.
the turn all happens in the upper
body, she instructs. Move your
eyes, arms and shoulders in the
direction you want to turn.
a couple of people in the group
pick the turn up straight away,
whereas most of us end up
heading towards the beach
rather than around the corner!
a little practice is needed...
2PM STAYING UPRIGHT

1PM LEARNING TO STOP
Next came the most important
lesson how to stop! those who
had heel brakes were taught to
move into a scissor position and
then lift the boot to engage the
brake. those without were shown
a t-stop, which involves bending
one leg and dragging the other
boot horizontally behind. Both
proved easy, everyone agreed,
once wed all obeyed the
command to bend our knees!
I would advise all beginners
to buy a pair of skates with a
Everyone has done really well. Yes,

we all look like beginners, kitted
out in protective gear and moving
with wobbly trepidation, but
nobody has fallen over. amazing!
Everyone assumes theyll be
falling all over the place as a
beginner, but if youve been taught
how to stand in a ready position
and scissor, then you should stay
upright, assures asha.
Rolling around on the seafront
is so much fun and I can tell it
could get very addictive. sign
me up for the next workshop!
coast ACTIVE
need to know
HOW TO GET STARTED
The first thing is to find a
good skate instructor. Skatefresh
(skatefresh.com) offers lessons
in London and Brighton. You can
also purchase lesson video apps
for Android and iPhones at
skatefresh.com/apps.
WHAT IT COSTS
A two-hour beginner or
intermediate group lesson with
Skatefresh in Brighton costs
20. Private hour-long lessons
with Asha are 50. For more
information, go to skatefresh.
com/brighton or email
bookings@skatefresh.com.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
At the very least, knee
and wrist guards; some people
also wear elbow pads and a
crash helmet. Beginners need
boots with laces, a heel brake,
two ankle straps and 80mm
wheels. Good suppliers are
LocoSkates (locoskates.com) and
Club Blue Room (clubblueroom.
com). Skates cost between 70
and 250. A set of knee, elbow
and wrist guards costs 25.
HOW TO GET THERE
Brighton is an hour from
London by train and up to two
hours by car. The citys Hove
Lawns skate area is west of
the main and west piers.
WHERE TO STAY
There is a wide choice
of accommodation in Brighton,
including the Grand Hotel (0871
222 4684, devere-hotels.co.uk).
1 1 1 co a s t
READ YOUR FAVOURITE MAGAZINE

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coast CRAFTS
CREATIVE CoRNER
After making the move to Devons Dartmouth, DArt Gallery directors

Tom Butcher and Edward Reach surrounded themselves with sea-inspired art
words Madeleine Barber
TOM BUTCHER
GALLERY DIRECTOR
art Gallery sits on a bustling street, just

one lane back from Dartmouths lively
quayside. step inside and youll find
walls festooned with acrylic paintings,
vibrant oils brushed on to canvas and the
odd sculpture cautiously placed on a plinth.
tom Butcher and his partner Edward
Reach have never struggled to find work
to exhibit in the gallery, as the south West
is a magnet for artists. the light, landscape
and countryside all come together here
on the coast, and thats what the draw is,
says tom. Even he was drawn in by the sea.
We made the decision to move down here
and run the gallery because of the location.
this happened 18 months ago, when
a happy coincidence landed the pair in
Dartmouth. our neighbour knocked on the
door and asked to buy our house, explains
tom. It was ridiculously good timing, he
adds. after swiftly agreeing, they made the
move from Hampshire to live in Blackpool
sands and co-direct Dart Gallery.
CAREFUL CURATING
choosing which artwork to display in the
gallery sounds a complex task, but tom says
this isnt the case for him and Edward. We
wouldnt hang anything in the gallery that
we dont like, he explains. art is a subjective
thing and particular paintings do connect with
us in different ways. Modern British painters,
who create atmospheric seascapes and
colourful acrylics, fuel most of their exhibitions.
Between them, tom and Edward curate
around four shows a year. Falling around
Dartmouths busiest times Easter,
midsummer, october and christmas the
shows can be both a mix of eclectic artists
work, or a focus on one busy creator. the
laid-back lifestyle of the area has helped
shape the way exhibitions are run, so the
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP Low tide, flowers and shadows, Prawle by Chris Forsey; The Lizard reaches by Stewart Edmondson;
DArt Gallery directors Tom Butcher (right) and Edward Reach
shows tend not to have an end date. We

play it by ear and see how things go, tom
says. sometimes the paintings sell quickly,
so we move on to our next adventure.
so whats his favourite thing about working
with Dart Gallery? It doesnt feel like work for
a start, he replies. But its also our customer
relationships and getting to know people.
When hes not working on the gallery,
tom surfs with a mature crowd at Bantham
Beach. Im just over 40 years old, so its
nice being around surfers that dont make
me feel really old, he jokes.
ThE LIGhT, LANDsCApE AND

CoUNTRysIDE ALL ComE
ToGEThER hERE oN ThE CoAsT
EXhIBITIoNs
Upcoming shows at
DArt Gallery include:
From 22 May, during
Dartmouth Galleries Week,
works by Rosa Sepple.
In June, a collection
by Devon-based painter
Yvonne Coomber.
* The summer show,
opening on 18 July, will
include coastal works
by Michael Sanders, Nagib
Karsan and Jan Nelson.
In October, therell be a
solo show for artist Stewart
Edmondson, who paints the
Isles of Scilly and Cornwall.
To find out more, visit
dart-gallery.com.
1 1 3 co a s t
coast CRAFTS
Make a
DRIFTWOOD BOAT
create these decorative keepsakes from washed-up timber on the shore,

using maps of your favourite seaside place for the sails
WoRDs & PhotogRaPhs Shore Cottage Studio
hese boats are a great

use of driftwood finds
and can be made in any
size to suit your home. You can
hang tiny ones from a mobile and
watch them catch the slightest
breeze, or make a large-scale
schooner to take pride of place
on your mantelpiece. Using maps
as the sails is a good way of
telling the story of the driftwood,
by referencing the beach where
it was found, or a favourite
holiday destination. You could
even create a flotilla of small
driftwood boats carrying a wish
list of coastal places to visit.
to make the sail, you can,
of course, cut up an old map,
but printing out your own will
allow you to customise the
scale and location perfectly.
You can always splash on a
little tea or coffee to tone down
the colours and give the paper
a worn, aged-in feel.
For a different take on
what you use for the sail, try
photocopying or scanning
a page from a favourite book
that you associate with the
sea. classics such as Treasure
Island or Moby Dick would work
well, or even a book youve
read on a memorable seaside
holiday or on your honeymoon.
these boats make for great
decorations, but theyre not toys
and they will not float. We made
ours with rusty nails because
we like the look if you do,
too, be sure to take care when
wielding the hammer.
1 14 co ast
WHAT YOU NEED:

A piece of driftwood
A large nail
(ours was rusty, if your opt for
the same, take care)
Scissors
A map
A hammer
A glue stick
check that the size and scale of your

map fits the size and scale of the
driftwood and nail you are using.
carefully hammer the nail into the

driftwood. Make sure it does not
go all the way through.
cut the sail shapes, one is usually

bigger than the other. consider
a pennant (small flag), too.
Run a line of glue down the sail

shape and press to the back of
your mast. hold until dry.
ABOUT
SHORE
COTTAGE
STUDIO
shore cottage studio
consists of three
generations of artists
living and working on
the Wirral Peninsula.
they run short creative
courses in fused glass,
photography, textiles
and laser-etching,
taking inspiration from
their surroundings.
they also exhibit their
work and produce
commissions. oh, and
there is usually cake.
You can book a course
or commission a piece
from shore cottage on
its website (0151 648
6581, shorecottage
studio.com).
1 1 5 co a s t
A hidden gem in North Cornwall

T: 01208 840031
www.costislosthouse.co.uk
Luxury Bed & Breakfast Hotel. Rustic charm in luxurious surroundings

close to Padstow, Rock, Port Isaac and Wadebridge
Wild Yoga
Active Yoga
A stunning house set in beautiful countryside. Perfect peace and tranquillity to enjoy
one of our inspirational yoga breaks combined with activities such as foraging,
cycling, kayaking, ecoasteering, paddle boards and surfing.
Go with the ow..

Discover the essence of relaxed river life with Val Wyatt Marine
From our superb family-owned site at Willow Marina we cater for your every boating need. As well as
an impressive range of river boat brands including the handmade Interboat we oer moorings,
maintenance, on-site refreshments and local produce for that all important picnic, and much more.
Visit www.gowiththeow.life to be in with the chance to win

a luxury boat trip along the Thames with picnic hamper
Closing date 31-7-15

Terms and conditions apply
GREAT CHOICE OF BOAT BRANDS FRIENDLY, EXPERT ADVICE OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK
Val Wyatt Marine, Willow Marina, Willow Lane, Wargrave, Berkshire, RG10 8LH | info@valwyattmarine.co.uk |
01189 403211
www.valwyattmarine.co.uk
coast TEST
test the best
This monTh: We take the latest rucksacks out on a trial run
Dip your toe in
35
This Robens nylon rucksack is waterproof and folds

up into a dinky bag. WE LoVE: The front zip pocket.
BEsT FoR: Packing into your suitcase.
oase-outdoors.dk
35
A padded harness makes the Kiwi Pro 22-litre

backpack comfortable to carry. WE LoVE: It comes
in four colours. BEsT FoR: Hikes on the coast.
craghoppers.com
35
Ultralight, this Stowaway Daypack 20 can fit into your

pocket. WE LoVE: Its durability. BEsT FoR: A packed
lunch and spare jumper when youre out walking.
rohan.co.uk
Plain sailing
40
Its dark denim colour and rope ties give the Lady
Huntsfield canvas bag a nautical feel.WE LoVE: How
spacious it is inside. BEsT FoR: Day trips on a boat.
regatta.com
85
This Osprey Talon 33 rucksack serves both the casual

hiker and serious mountain climber.WE LoVE: It has
an emergency whistle. BEsT FoR: Long treks.
cotswoldoutdoor.com
60
Durable and lightweight, the Traverse rucksack is the

perfect companion for big adventures. WE LoVE: The
detachable rain cover. BEsT FoR: Multi-activity days.
vango.co.uk
compiled by MADELEINE BARBER
Push the boat out
195
The Arkaig waxed cotton backpack has handy internal

pockets. WE LoVE: Its hardy, yet stylish. BEsT FoR:
Swapping between daily commutes and coastal trips.
trakke.co.uk
160
Designed for women, the Aura AG 50s mesh back

panel provides extra comfort. WE LoVE: The sleeping
bag compartment. BEsT FoR: Challenging walks.
ospreyeurope.com
110
This Velaro rucksack has two compartments to

separate wet gear from other items. WE LoVE: Its
bright blue colour. BEsT FoR: Lovers of watersports.
arcteryx.com
1 1 7 co a s t
WIN A LUXURIOUS
SEASIDE BREAK
coast has teamed up with Visit Eastbourne to offer one lucky winner a
two-night stay at the View Hotel, along with tours of a vineyard and gallery
ow the weathers getting warmer,

who wouldnt enjoy a break by
the coast? After waking up to
stunning sea views at the View Hotel,
our winner and a guest will explore the
Cuckmere Valley with a Fizz on Foot
walking wine tour and enjoy a tutored
wine-tasting session at a vineyard.
The prize also includes two nights of
alfresco live music, from pop tributes to
classical fireworks, at the UKs busiest
Bandstand, and a waterside lunch at
Seasons restaurant, in the Sovereign

Harbour, serving seasonally selected
produce from land and sea.
COASTAL ATTRACTIONS
Finally, our winner will head behind

the scenes at Towner, Eastbournes
cherished gallery, in a private Art Store
Tour, ending with afternoon tea at Urban
Ground, with spectacular views of the
South Downs National Park. For more
information, go to visiteastbourne.com.
HOW TO ENTER
Go to the competitions page on

our website coastmagazine.co.uk
and answer the following question
by 29 May 2015: At which harbour
can you find Seasons restaurant?
A) Supreme B) Sovereign C) Sunshine
TERMS AND CONDITIONS All accommodation, tickets and meals subject to availability at time of booking and must be booked at least one month ahead. B&B accommodation in a double/twin balcony room at the View Hotel,
excluding the following dates; 17-26 June, 12-16 August, 24-25 December, 30-31 December 2015. Fizz on Foot is a one-day guided walk and vineyard tour, including lunch and wine tasting, available Monday-Saturday. Bandstand
season runs from 1 May-30 September 2015. Lunch for two at Seasons is up to the value of 35, excluding all UK bank holidays. The prize is not transferable and travel costs are not included. The prize is supplied by VisitEastbourne.
com. Entries close at midnight on 29 May 2015 and the winner will be drawn on 1 June 2015. The winner will be notified within 28 days of the close of entries. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Entry is
free. Open to residents of the UK aged over 18. Employees of Kelsey Media and their family members are not eligible to win. Only one entry permitted per person, no bulk entries will be accepted. The first correct entry drawn after
the closing date will win. There is no cash alternative and the prize is not transferable. If any prize or product is lost or damaged during the course of delivery to the recipient, Kelsey Media will provide reasonable assistance in seeking
to resolve the problem. However, it will not always be possible to obtain replacements for lost or damaged goods, and in that event, no financial compensation would be payable by Kelsey Media or their affiliates. We reserve the
right to cancel the competition, if circumstances change that are beyond our control. By entering you agree to be bound by all the rules and agree that your surname and county may be released if you win. By providing personally
identifiable information when entering this competition, you are agreeing that we may use it to provide you with on-going information about our products and services, although you can unsubscribe at any time, if you wish to do so.
coast is a Kelsey Media brand. Kelsey Media will only ever use your information in line with its Multi Layered Privacy Notice. For full details, visit kelsey.co.uk. If you have any questions, please ask as submitting your data indicates
your consent, until you choose otherwise, that we may contact you about products and services that we believe to be of relevance to you.
YOUR coast
Wed love to hear your VIEWS, NEWS & REVIEWS on anything coastal
STAR R
LETTE
SAILING TO SUCCESS
After moving to Cornwall

in 2001, Ive finally been
able to put to good use the
driftwood I take home from
the beach. I make boats with
it, adding shells, glass and old
maps. The birth of Seapea
Cornwall followed. A friend
told me about a gallery in Polkerris, and Ive been selling
my boats there ever since. I now use my coast diary to
Carolann Palmer
plan craft fairs where I can show them.
STAR PRIZE
This months star letter wins a choice of Josef Seibel
shoes from its colourful spring/summer range
(josefseibelandfriends.co.uk).
LOVING THE COASTAL LIFE

In September 2009, we made a trip to the
north Cornish coast, found a converted
barn we liked, and bought it. After
spending a year doing it up, we opened it
to holiday-makers. The nicest part of our
lives at the moment is reading the lovely
comments in the visitors book. We just
read your February issue again and saw
you were asking for readers views on
coast. So, we love it always have
and bought into the lifestyle to prove it.
Susy & Ally Giles
a place that ticked all the boxes and,

ironically, featured in that first-ever issue of
coast I read. I just wanted to let you know
how inspirational your magazine has been.
Mandy Marodeen
DOG of the MONTH
This month on Facebook you

loved our round-up of the best
Poldark coastal film locations
Marilyn Charters: Episode one was
fab-u-lous! Stunning scenery, too!
Suzanne Brooks-Askey: Loved
it. Cornwall is my spiritual home.
I remember my parents watching
the original, but its my turn now.
Di Grist: I hope it lives up to the
original series.
Janice Evans: It definitely lived
up to the first series. Fantastic
location shots in Cornwall, too.
Suzanne Campbell: Loved it and
already looking forward to next week.
Christine Carroll: I enjoyed the
original, and I enjoyed this one.
Gaynor Witchard: My sons name
is Ross, too! Loving Cornwall.
tw itte r
What you Tweeted
Thanks @coastmag I really enjoyed that
#coasthour. Now itching to go to the coast.
Good issue featuring @MarkEHix and
@MitchTonks, the culinary Kray twins
of the South West coast scene.
Enjoyed my birthday treat @thegallivant
Thanks for the tip @coastmag
Move to Skibbereen: Beautiful
write-up from #Skibbereen #WestCork
MAKING A SEA CHANGE

It was April 2012 when my mum bought
me my first issue of coast magazine.
I was captivated and have bought every
issue ever since. Ive always wanted to
live by the sea but saw it as something for
when my children were grown up and left
home. But that chance purchase of coast
changed everything. I began to realise my
family needed a change, so we sold our
house and bought one by the sea. Where
did we end up buying? Littlehampton,
fa c e b ook
@coastmag celebrating my birthday

with all my coast friends on the shingle
at Dungeness with bubbly and fish
babs from @DungenessFishut
Whatever the weather, wire-haired

fox terrior Barney loves his daily walks
on the beach at Whitstable.
Gail, Max & Gus Barnes
WOOP! Thrilled that @coastmag

is sponsoring MADE BRIGHTON this
year. coast continually supports
and promotes designer/makers.
A rainy day at the beach is better
than a rainy day in the office #cornwall
Write to: coast, Cudham Tithe Barn, Berrys Hill, Cudham, Kent TN16 3AG; email: coast.
enquiries@kelsey.co.uk; Facebook us: facebook.com/coastmagazine or Tweet us: @coastmag
1 1 9 CO A S T
Heres
how to
get
in touch
with us:
coastmagazine.co.uk
coast is published by Kelsey Media, Cudham
Tithe Barn, Berrys Hill, Cudham, Kent TN16 3AG
EDITORIAL
EDITOR: ALEX FISHER
alex.fisher@kelsey.co.uk
Art Editor: Heather Heward
Chief Sub-Editor: Leona Gerrard
Acting Chief Sub-Editor: Anne-Claire Heels
Features Editor: Gabrielle Jaffe
Digital Editor: Ginny Weeks
Editorial Assistant: Madeleine Barber
With thanks to: Sam Price, Sally Jones, Alex Reece,
Emma Clayton, Lesley Gillilan, Alice Westgate,
Polly Banks, Christopher Somerville, Maya Plass,
Richard Harrington, Tom Jay, Rosie Scott
ADVERTISEMENT SALES
Advertising Manager: Sue Tannatt
(01959 543581) sue.tannatt@kelsey.co.uk
Senior Sales Executive: Pippa Charles
(01959 543734) pippa.charles@kelsey.co.uk
PRODUCTION
Senior Production Supervisor: Jackie Aubrey
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Production Manager: Charlotte Whittaker
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IN THE NEXT ISSUE
ISLAND SPECIAL
THE BEST ISLAND HOLIDAYS

MOVE TO ARRAN
HOW TO BUY YOUR OWN ISLAND
PLUS
WRITING FROM A FISHERMAN'S
HUT IN WHITSTABLE
~ STOCkISTS ~
A
NNABEL JAMES,
0845 548 0210,
annabeljames.co.uk
ARTISANTI, 0345 259
1410, artisanti.com
B
C
&Q, 0333 014 3098,

diy.com
LARKS, 01458
899904, clarks.co.uk
COASTAL HOME,
01625 578105,
coastalhome.co.uk
EBENHAMS,
0844 800 8877,
debenhams.com
E
F
H
TSY, islandla.
etsy.com
OLK, 020 7404 6458,

folkclothing.com
&M, 03 44 736 9000,

hm.com
HEALS, 020 7896 7451,
heals.co.uk
HOMESENSE, 01923
473561, homesense.com
HOUSE OF FRASER,
0345 602 1073,
houseoffraser.co.uk
ARKA LONDON,
parkalondon.com
PLMO, 0844 557 3590,
plumo.com
PUJI, 020 8886 3000,
puji.com
I
K
KEA, 020 3645 0000,

ikea.com
ELLY HOPPEN,
020 3701 9333,
kellyhoppen.com
ASPBERRY MASH,
07583 836 988,
raspberrymash.co.uk
ARSSON &
JENNINGS,
larssonandjennings.com
LOAF, 0845 468 0697,
loaf.com
AINSBURYS HOME,
0800 636 262,
sainsburyshome.co.uk
SUNGLASSES SHOP,
0800 917 1153,
sunglasses-shop.co.uk
ARKS & SPENCER,

0333 014 8000,
marksandspencer.com
N
O
KUKU, 01803
866847, nkuku.com
CCA-HOME,
0330 363 0330,
occa-home.co.uk
OSCAR & EVE,
oscarandeve.co.uk
ESCO, 0800 323 4050,

tesco.com
THE CONTEMPORARY
HOME, 0845 1308229,
tch.net
TOPMAN, 0344 984 0265,
topman.com
TOPSHOP, 0344 984
0264, topshop.com
RBAN OUTFITTERS,
urbanoutfitters.com
ON SALE 29 MAY
coast WILDLIFE
SHORE SPOTTERS GUIDE
From jumping house to leaving skeletons behind, these iconic crustaceans

have many amazing habits, as Richard Harrington from MCS reveals
ay seaside animal and the first

thing to come to mind is often the
crab, with its sideways scuttle and
nippy reputation.
All crabs have 10 legs, the front two
being pincers or claws. On the edible crab
(pictured, bottom), these are powerful
crushing tools. The more nimble common
shore crab has narrower ones for snipping
and handling food, which it scavenges
from the seabed. It is easily attracted to
bait on a childs crabbing line.
Most are well protected by their own
suit of armour, but the hermit crab
(pictured, top) carries an empty snail
shell around to shelter in. The shell
doesnt grow, though, so each crab is
always on the lookout for a new one. If
you pop a choice of empty shells next
to a hermit crab in a pool, you might
be lucky enough to see a quick shellchange in action try it!
SPOTTED
THIS?
TWEET US:
@coastmag
Know your
CRABS..
FEISTY AND FEARLESS
HERMIT
Pagurus bernhardus
Always in a snail-type shell,
found in a range of sizes
this process. The refreshed soft body

then expands visibly before it hardens up
over the course of a few days. Many a
dead crab you find on the beach will
turn out to be an empty exoskeleton.
THE VELVET SWIMMER

DESERVES THE TITLE OF OUR
MOST AGGRESSIVE CRAB
COMMON SHORE
Carcinus maenas
Adults are usually dark green
with black blotches, but
juveniles can be a range of
bright colours
VELVET SWIMMING
Necora puber
A beautiful blue or purple
crab, with bright red eyes
THE MARINE CONSERVATION SOCIETY (MCS) is the charity that looks after our seas, shores and
wildlife. It cares passionately about clean beaches, the need to protect marine life and the importance
of the seas resources. MCS makes a vital difference by setting up projects in the UK and abroad.
To find out more or become a member, visit mcsuk.org or call 0300 330 0704. You can help by
donating as little as 3.75 a month.
1 22 CO AST
PHOTOGRAPHS PAUL NAYLOR/JASON GREGORY, BRITISHMARINELIFEPICTURES.CO.UK
Some have hidden talents. Velvet

swimming crabs and harbour crabs are
both incredible swimmers, with back
legs shaped like paddles that propel
them along faster than they could
possibly walk on dry land. The velvet
swimmer deserves the title of our most
aggressive crab, as it seems to have no
fear of humans. It is a favourite food of
the octopus, however, whose eight arms
are adept at disabling its feisty prey.
The best time to see crabs is in the
summer, as they often retreat to deeper
water for winter. This is also the moment
to watch out for the incredible moulting
process when they shed their outer
body shell legs, eye stalks and all! Any
lost limbs can often be replaced through
coast
FASHION
HOLIDAY RENTALS
HOTELS
INTERIORS
JEWELLERY
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
PROPERTY FOR SALE
TO ADVERTISE IN THE DIRECTORY PLEASE CALL PIPPA CHARLES ON 01959 543 734
WWW.COASTMAGAZINE.CO.UK
coastmagazine.co.uk
1 2 3 CO A S T
coast SHOPPING
coast
| PROMOTION
COAST ESSENTIALS
SHADES OF THE SEA STACK RING BY
KATE LEWIS
BEAUTIFUL 5 BEDROOM HOUSE NEAR BEACH IN ELMER, W SUSSEX
The Dolphin is a family house situated 60 yards from a

quiet beach. Presently split into a 3 bedroom family
house and 2 bedroom holiday rental apartment, which
rented out 48 weeks last year.
Well maintained with 5 Double Bedrooms, Sea Views,
Open plan living room/kitchen opening out onto south
facing walled tropical garden laid to lawn, large
driveway with big garage/workshop.
550,000
Call us on 01243 584061
cathryn.stevens@btinternet.com
Keep your memories of the sea close with this

stunning stack ring in Gold with Gemstones.
BEMBRIDGE, ISLE OF WIGHT, 100K
Each Gemstone reects one of the many shades

the sea appears as the light and weather changes
and the irregular gold bands capture the
movement of the waves. Gold with cloudy
Aquamarine, blue Apatite, pale blue and dark blue
Topaz and Prehnite.
750
Ideal for families, as a creative space or a bolt hole.
For more details contact :

Jenny Turnbull Estate Agent, Bembridge
01983 874777
http://www.jennyturnbull.co.uk/
www.katelewisjewellery.co.uk
0781 399 0321
THE TRAVELLER JACKET
Tophole is a unique 1940s chalet (hut) adjacent to the

coastal path with sea views overlooking Whitecliff Bay.
The property comprises a light and airy living room
with sea views, 2 bedrooms, galley kitchen, shower
room/wc, private garden with deck and tree lookout
and ample parking. Available fully furnished. Sleeps 4
(6 including living room futon).
100% Indigo cotton on promotion at 59.00

Comfort and style combine in this very wearable
indigo denim knitted jacket.
Indigo Traveller features a full length zip. A stalwart
item for your wardrobe, Indigo Traveller can
accompany you everywhere you go; wear over a
vest, T-shirt, long or short sleeves, with jeans,
trousers, skirt or dress; or take it just in case.
As its name suggests the perfect piece to take on
all your travels.
100% INDIGO COTTON AT 69.99
Available from our online store

www.originalblues.co.uk
or phone on 0208 813 7766
DR BEANS BAGS HANDMADE ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT.

Inspired by the seaside, Dr Beans Bags reect a
nostalgic love of our classic sailing heritage,
combining sailcloth, rope and a cheerful stripe.
Our bags are made with a sense of fun and feature
recognised phrases, poems or lyrics or even a jolly
interpretation of the well-loved Shipping Forecast.
Bags can be personalised for any location,
becoming the perfect reminder of your favourite
holiday spot.
drbeansbags.co.uk
1 2 4 C O AST
co ast m ag az i n e.co.uk
The Weekender
Classic, comfortable and casual - Weekender is
an easy to wear mens sweater, knitted in beautiful
soft 100% Indigo Denim Cotton. With set-in
sleeves, softly rolled cuffs and hem, and the collar
enhanced by a rib and rolled nish. An all year
round wardrobe essential, for relaxed and lazy
weekends, the versatile Weekender looks great
teamed with a pair of jeans, chinos or shorts. Why
not wear it every weekend? Weekender
Available from our online store
www.originalblues.co.uk
or phone on 0208 813 7766
coast
| PROMOTION
coast SHOPPING
COAST ESSENTIALS
FOR THE HOME
PORTHMINSTER BEACH, ST IVES, BY PAUL CLARK.
Artists Paul Clark & Liz Hackney own Atishoo

Gallery in Charlestown Cornwall, where they sell
all sorts of lovely coastal inspired, British made, art
and crafts. This painting of Porthminster Beach in
St. Ives is available as the original painting for
395 or as art prints from their online shop.
HANDCRAFTED NAUTICAL ARTWORK
My painting shows the beach full of families and

wind breaks in the height of the summer season,
with Cornish owers and of course, my signature
uffy clouds
www.atishoodesigns.co.uk
SOUK TILES AND INTERIORS
We are a new company

supplying copper, nickel,
or tin baths either for the
bathroom or outside
use, for 1800 we are a
fairtrade,family run
business and all of our
baths are made in the
heart of Marrakech, we
are the cheapest
supplier in the uk,we have a website of www.souktiles.com and are happy to take any telephone
enquiries.....we can make them to your exact requirements, delivered to your home
01993 704424 or 07826 387508
COASTAL CANVASES
SEAFORTH DESIGNS
Using original navigational charts I create intricate

relief models of our scenic coastline. Capturing
each headland, bay, cliff and harbour in perfect
detail, every chart is bespoke and meticulously
crafted by hand. I am able to replicate any section
of the UK coastline and beyond to create a truly
personal gift. Supplied in a high quality
professionally made frame, these models make
the perfect nautical gift.
To commission a chart
please visit www.land-fall.co.uk
Email: info@land-fall.co.uk
Tel: 01823 299380
Seaforth Designs is based in the coastal shing

village of Solva, Pembrokeshire, and uses the rugged
natural landscape and wildlife as inspiration for the
designs in these collections. The designs, handmade
by Emma Iles, sit perfectly within the home and are
made with traditional Welsh woven wools and Harris
tweeds in tones to compliment the Countryside,
Coastal and Heritage ranges.
As seen on BBC Autumnwatch and featured in
Country Living and Period Living.
07880 974250
www.seaforthdesigns.com
Antonia Phillips is a professional artist based near

West Bay in Dorset.
Known for her atmospheric seascapes, her work
celebrates light and natural colour.
JULIA MILLS GLASS DESIGNS
These lovely prints on canvas, available from her

website, come from original paintings and are
ready to hang. Theyre coated, so perfect for your
kitchen or bathroom too!
There are over 25 designs to choose from with
prices starting at 48 (including p&p) for an 8x8
image, they make a wonderful addition to your
home or as a gift.
Glass designs for your home inspired by the

Cornish coastline made for doors and windows as
well as free-hanging wood-framed panels.
Other sizes are available, also a range of greetings

cards to complement.
01308 420423
www.antoniaphillips.co.uk
Contact: www.juliamillsgallery.co.uk
mob 07875279751
coastmagazine.co.uk
1 2 5 CO A S T
Gallery
Fine art
www.lindamumba.co.uk
info@lindamumba.co.uk
Tel: 0788 740 4232
www.pebblestosand.co.uk
Tel: 01295 738531
Reeds of Fowey 01726 832 129

www.reedsofowey.co.uk
R reefer
Chic to Beach
recycle repurpose redefine
Recycled sailcloth & new canvas products for home, garden,

beach and travel. All designed and made in Devon.
w: reefersails.com t: 01404 831333
Your essential beach holiday garment!
www.chictobeach.co.uk
WWW.THEOLDSALTLOFT.COM
For details of advertising please call Pippa Charles on 01959 543 734
0844 539 1963
Exclusive Coastal Hotels

ST BRIDES SPA HOTEL
At St Brides, our ethos is simple Escape to the

coast, relax in understated luxury and enjoy
unbuttoned fine dining in contemporary
surroundings. We want you to feel like you are
staying at your best friends home by the sea and
look forward to making your stay a very special
one. Best Place to Stay in Wales - National
Tourism Awards, Best View in the UK - Best Kept
Secret Awards 2013.
DBB rates from 100 per person.
01834 812304
www.stbridesspahotel.com
PRIDE OF BRITAIN
Pride of Britain is a collection of wonderfully British

hotels located in some of the most beautiful
parts of the UK, all dedicated to the pursuit of
excellence. Each is different, but their owners
share a passion for great hospitality which Pride
of Britain has been representing for over 30 years.
With a range of properties from Country House
Chic, Indulgent Spas to City Elegance, there is a
hotel for everyone. Pride of Britain gift vouchers
make an ideal present for your friends or family.
To find out more please visit our website or call to
order vouchers or your free hotel directory.
0808 252 2833 www.prideofbritainhotels.com
SAUNTON SANDS HOTEL North Devon
Book your relaxing luxury break at our stunning four-star

hotel on the North Devon coast. Saunton Sands Hotel has
unrivalled views across miles of golden sands, Braunton
Burrows, World Heritage site and the beautiful sparkling
sea. Enjoy direct access to the beach, our indoor heated
pool and beauty and therapy suites. Our AA rosette Art
Deco restaurant is waiting to tempt you with delicious
dining, as is our cosy Terrace Lounge.
reservations@sauntonsands.com
01271 890212
www.sauntonsands.com
LE GRANDE MARE HOTEL

ROYAL YORK & FAULKNER HOTEL, Sidmouth
Charming Regency hotel on the centre of Sidmouths
elegant Esplanade and adjacent to the picturesque town
centre with its array of individual shops. Ideally situated
for exploring all of glorious Devon. Long established family
run hotel with renowned personal service. Beautifully
appointed lounges, restaurant and bar overlooking the sea
& Esplanade. Stunning spa and wide range of treatments
available. DBB from 69.00
FREEPHONE 0800 220714

www.royalyorkhotel.co.uk
CARY ARMS Devon
The Inn on the Beach - exuding charm, fun and all the
values of a good English inn with the style and comfort
of a boutique hotel. Great seaside gastro-pub dining,
spa treatments, family friendly (including the dogs),
complemented by chic rooms and cute cottages. Sitting
in the sheltered and sunny spot of Babbacombe Bay
on the south Devon coast, the setting and views are
breathtakingly beautiful, 365 days of the year. Hearty
breakfasts, long lunches and lazy suppers; its about
delicious food made with fresh, local ingredients, simply
and creatively cooked according to the season.
01803 327110 www.caryarms.co.uk
July issue is
Island
Special!!!
ON SALE
29th May
Situated alongside the sweeping sands of Vazon

Bay in Guernsey, La Grande Mare Hotel, Golf &
Country Club is set in over one hundred acres of
tranquil private grounds. With lakes, woodland, an
18-hole golf course and gardens, the four-star hotel
has 25 bedrooms, self catering apartments and
fully equipped health club. Explore everything that
Guernsey has to offer with one of our short breaks.
After a day of stunning cliff top walks choose from
a wide range of dining options on site, utilising
island grown seasonal ingredients and an extensive
wine list. Find out more by visiting our website.
01481 256576
www.lagrandemare.com
WOOLACOMBE BAY
Located in one of the most enviable positions in

England, the Woolacombe Bay overlooks one of the
best beaches in Europe.
Shortlisted for the Cond Nast Johansens Awards
for Excellence 2015, awarded the Tripadvisor
Certificate of Excellence 2014 and Booking.com
Award of Excellence 2014, this really is one of
Devons finest.
01271 870388
www.woolacombebayhotel.co.uk
WARPOOL COURT HOTEL

Pembrokeshire
Come and enjoy a stay in Britains smallest

City of St.Davids and enjoy the food, views
and hospitality that is on offer at Warpool
Court Hotel. Located in 15 acres of gardens
and grounds, with panoramic sea-views, this
is the place to unwind and enjoy the beauty
and nature that Pembrokeshire has to offer.
Room rates from 125.
01437 720300
www.warpoolcourthotel.com
Coastal Breaks
THE ROUNDHOUSE, NORTH CORNWALL
CARBIS BAY HOLIDAYS
Over 120 luxurious 4 & 5 star self catering properties exclusively located in St Ives, Cornwall. Whether
youre looking for a seaside family retreat, a painters paradise on the waters edge, or a cliff-top hideaway;
we have got just the place for you. Panoramic sea views, parking, baby and dog friendly properties, special
offers and short breaks.
www.carbisbayholidays.co.uk/coast
01736 630015
SHIPWRECKS & PILCHARD PALACES

Enjoy dramatic harbour and lighthouse views from
a house built from an ancient shipwreck or choose
from our selection of unusual and idyllic beachside
cottages or waterside apartments.
All properties personally inspected. Nightly rates,
short breaks & holidays.
Please contact Carrie for best rates and latest offers
www.cornishescapes.net 02032868330
CORNISH GEMS LUXURY HOLIDAY

HOMES CORNWALL
Over 150 luxury holiday homes, cottages and

apartments to rent throughout Cornwall.
Cornish Gems properties stretch from coast to
coast. From as far West as Sennen, right up to
Port Isaac on the North coast and Looe on the
South coast.
Short breaks and last minute deals are available
and many properties welcome dogs.
www.cornishgems.com 0844 800 2813
MESMEAR LUXURY COTTAGES

A haven of tranquillity just a stones throw from
the beaches of Polzeath and the hubbub Rock.
Set in 15 acres of grounds and orchard, with a
swimming pool, hot tub, gym and on site private
chef. Mesmears four private cottages are the ideal
location for family holidays, group getaways, short
breaks and unique weddings and events.
01208 869731 www.mesmear.co.uk
info@mesmear.co.uk
NORTH NORFOLK
Escape to a luxury coastal cottage.
Sleeps up to 8 + cot.
Open fire + wood burner.
Walled garden secure for children + dogs.
Ample off-road parking. Short breaks available.
www.morstoncreek.com
07584 247863
A spacious, detached holiday house between

Padstow and Newquay. Ideal for holidays or short
breaks with friends and family. Sleeps 10 plus cot.
Pets welcome. Views of Porthcothan Bay and a
short walk to the beautiful sandy beach. Private
field perfect for family games.
Visit www.roundhouseholidaycottage.co.uk
or call Nicki on 07816 449579
SCOTLAND'S BEST KEPT SECRET
Cosy, well-equipped, child friendly cottages in

perfect locations. Sleeps 1-10. Discover stunning
coastline warmed by the Gulf stream, woodland
walks from your door, exotic gardens, waterfalls,
lochs, hills & fabulous wildlife. From whisky tasting
to stone circles & a host of outdoor activities,
there's something here for everyone.
Dogs welcome.
01988 600600
www.escapetogalloway.co.uk
ABERSOCH HOLIDAY HOMES
Over 80 holiday homes in Abersoch, Llanbedrog &

around the Llyn Peninsula, ranging from beautifully
renovated farmhouses & boutique-style luxury
houses, to pretty cottages & chalets. Stylishly
presented & well equipped. All properties welcome
children. Selection of dog-friendly properties.
Short breaks available.
01758 740992
www.abersochholidayhomes.co.uk
SELF-CATERING PROPERTIES
ON THE WEST SUSSEX COAST
Luxury Cottage Harlech, Snowdonia

Private Indoor Pool
Sleeps up to four. Dogs welcome.
Beach view and 32 acre estate.
01766 781622
www.groeslas.co.uk
We offer a wide range of mainly sea front

properties in this beautiful area close to Chichester
and Goodwood.
01243 672217
lettings@baileys.uk.com
www.baileys.uk.com
CORNISH HORIZONS HOLIDAY COTTAGES

with over 220 Cornish holiday cottages.
All Visit England inspected.
5* luxury barns, houses with private pools &
hot tubs, relaxing beach and rural retreats.
Pets welcome.
Book through us- an accredited agency.
Visit www.cornishhorizons.co.uk or call
01841 533 331
Coast & Country Cottages
Over 430 holiday properties in and around

Salcombe, Dartmouth and throughout the beautiful
South Devon coast and countryside. Luxury
waterside apartments, stunning barn conversions,
cosy thatched cottages, many with sea or country
views, pools or the use of leisure facilities. Special
Offers. Short Breaks. Dog-Friendly Properties. Baby
Friendly Properties. Order 2015 view Magazine.
01548 843773 or book online
coastandcountry.co.uk
THE TWO BYRES, ISLE OF SKYE

Enjoy the wild beauty of the Isle of Skye from
our 5* holiday home, as featured in Homes &
Interiors Scotland and 25 Beautiful Homes
magazines. To achieve such levels of luxury whilst
also adhering to the strictest sustainable practices
is truly admirable... amongst the regions leading
lights - VisitScotland, June 2014.
www.thetwobyres.co.uk
COSY AND WARM UK HOLIDAY

COTTAGES
AGA Cottages make finding UK holiday cottages
with an AGA or Rayburn easy.
www.agacottages.co.uk
Travel & Holidays

South West Scotland - Luxury
Self Catering Holiday Retreats
Burnfoot Cottage, Dhoon Bay, Kirkcudbright
stay in luxury on
ventnor beach
Beautiful seaside cottage set in a stunning secluded
location with direct private access to Dhoon beach. 4
bedrooms, sleeps up to 8, living room with log-burner,
sun porch, dining room, bespoke hand-made kitchen,
central + underoor heating, garage, large garden,
Patio with BBQ, all set in private woodland over 2 acres.
Pet friendly.
www.burnfootcottage.com
Tel: Linda on 07802 780 554
www.victorycottage.com
NORTH NORFOLK
The Old Maltings is a family, 3 bedroomed cottage,

sleeping 5/6 in the village of Thornham, North
Norfolk, situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty. Dogs welcome. Expansive beaches, perfect
for walking, bird watching, exploring and simply
unwinding.
www.theoldmaltings-thornham.co.uk
To advertise
here call
These stylish new beach houses enjoy a unique position,

ii
literally
li
ll a stones
throw from the beach in Ventnor, Isle of Wight. Each house can comfortably
accommodate up to six adults, three children and an infant.
FLEXIBLE SHORT BREAKS FROM JUST 399

Ask about our off-season special deals for couples and smaller groups.
ventnorseafront.co.uk 01983 855010 coast@ventnorseafront.co.uk
Exclusive luxury holiday
properties in the
UK & Ireland
Pippa on
NORTH DEVON COAST
Luxury barn conversions sleeping 2-8.

C.H & woodburner.
Near coast & pubs.
2 acre meadows with each barn.
Pets welcome.
01237 441311
www.pattard.com
Isle of Wight
Idyllic cottages to elegant country houses,

there is sure to be a property thats perfect
for you and your family. Over 300 properties
for 224 guests, many from 2 night stays.
01959
543 734
Request your 2015 brochure now, visit
www.ruralretreats.co.uk
or call us on 01386 701177
Places to relax
and recharge
THE PERFECT CORNISH
HOLIDAY DESTINATION
SEA & HARBOUR VIE WS
helpfulholidays.co.uk
01647 434061
Call to book +44 (0)1326 574270 or visit

www.porthlevenholidaycottages.co.uk
Island Cottage
Holidays
Isle of Wight & Dorset
A R D L A R A C H LO D G E , I S L E O F LU I N G
Idyllic Self-catering in Scotland

w: LHHScotland.com t: 01381 610496 e: LHH@LHHScotland.com
Seaside & coastal holiday cottages in beautiful

locations across the Isle of Wight & Dorset
01929 481555
www.islandcottageholidays .com
coast CELEBRITY
My coast
Interior designer, cook and author SOPHIE CONRAN on the
beach walks, cute cafs and family connections that keep
her coming back to the Devon and Dorset coast
INTERVIEW Alex Reece
restaurant called The Riverside

Restaurant, and theres that incredible
cliff, which is sort of honeycomb. Its
crumbly but beautiful, and there are
long, long walks all along that beach.
Lyme Regis is a great place to
wander around in. Its got a steep high
street, with lots of gorgeous old shops,
and on the right-hand side of the
harbour, you can find fossils just
scattered all over the beach.
My other favourite village is Beer
(below): its wonderful to sit on the
beach and watch the fishing boats
coming in and out. It has a sweet caf
called Duckys, which does a great
crab sandwich and a nice mug of
tea. Both my mum and brother have
a place locally, so quite often everyone

will go down to the beach, make a fire
and sit around and chat.
My favourite memory of the area
would be spending time with my two
children when they were little and
pottering about with them, collecting
pebbles. I like collecting pebbles I
love the shapes. Weve just launched
a new tableware collection for
Portmeirion called Pebble, and
the ceramics have a rippled design.
Its very liberating being by the
sea. When its rough, the power of
it can be invigorating. Then, when its
calm, it can be thought-provoking
and serene. I think its very nourishing.
For the full range, see sophieconran.com.
PHOTOGRAPH ALAMY
y favourite bit
of coastline is from
Burton Bradstock in
Dorset down to Beer
in Devon. My mum
bought a house in
Bettiscombe village, which is close
to Lyme Regis, in the late Eighties, so
Ive been going down there since then.
Its hard to pick a favourite place.
Burton Bradstock is fantastic. Ive got
friends whove bought a hotel there,
which was a retirement home. Theyve
done it up and it overlooks the sea.
Its next to the Hive Beach Caf and
is called The Seaside Boarding House.
A little bit further down is West Bay,
which is lovely. Its got an amazing
1 30 CO AST
ESCAPE TO THE BEACH
Contemporary holiday lets on the North Cornwall coast...

all within walking distance of the beach.

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JUNE 2015 3.

Find your dream home...

Discover our top...

Celebrate great British

The Dunes, Mawgan Porth

kate & toms is different.Were a small, friendly company

Find us at: kateandtoms.com/coast

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LIVING ON THE EDGE

33 GET THE MODERNIST LOOK

34 RECLAIMED COASTAL STYLE

Inspiration for a shabby-chic home,

50 HOMES TO BUY BESIDE

and a converted lighthouse to pretty

COVER PHOTO DOUGLAS GIBB

82 HISTORIC HIDEAWAYS Transport

SOURCED FROM THE SEA

How Dom Bridges fell in love with

108 TRY IT NOW: ROLLERBLADING

114 MAKE A DRIFTWOOD BOAT

How to craft a cute keepsake from

North Wales beautiful Llyn Peninsula has pretty

words Lesley Gillilan illustration Tom Jay

crooked limb of land

thoroughly and proudly Welsh

coast m agazi ne .co.uk

the peninsulas fingertips where

ILEX COURT, ETTRICK ROAD, BRANKSOME PARK, POOLE, BH13 6LG

5 star customer service 6 years running

NEW HOMEs in poole

SHOWHOME Viewing by appointment

Best Small Housebuilder 3 years running

ere in coast HQ we often receive letters from readers telling us

Id love to hear from you

to discover your perfect coastal pastime, your

Devon-based writer Emma

Since leaving her office

PHOTOGRAPH NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES, IAN SHAW

FIND of the MONTH

SHOPPING EVENTS PEOPLE PLACES CULTURE NEWS WILDLIFE

Available in zingy colours,

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Perfect for welcoming the

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PHOTOGRAPH DAVID GRIFFEN

SHOPPING EVENTS PEOPLE PLACES CULTURE NEWS WILDLIFE

TEN THINGS to do THIS MONTH

ATTEND A BEACH FESTIVAL

An eclectic assortment of activities will

COMPILED BY MADELEINE BARBER PHOTOGRAPH JAMES RAM

Keep your eyes on the stage

Therell be plenty of horsing

The Secret Garden. Taking

SHOPPING EVENTS PEOPLE PLACES CULTURE NEwS wILdLIfE

Add some colour to your plate with

SquID wITH rOaSTED rED

1 Preheat your oven to 200C/400F.

co as t mag azi n e.co.uk

Every month coast contributors recommend their favourite seaside

wonder the locals come back week

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