Shh! It’s something we all know but rarely realise – June is an absolute corker in Tom’s Country.
The scent of sun-kissed hedgerows, the seduction of quiet beaches and the longest days of the year make June a celebration of summer arrival.
Our gusto for June always begins with two seasonal events: a day (usually all three to be fair) at the Royal Cornwall Show and picking-our-own strawberries at Trevathan Farm Shop. Pop on a sunhat and get to it – both ooze country summertime! Tom’s Cottage pick of other local June events are listed later.
Ocean Wave
Cornish summer and the sea? We agree, just breathing-in that tang of water meeting shore is like greeting an old friend.
Days on Port Gaverne beach that last forever – rock-pooling at mid tide, swimming in sandy shallows at low tide and stretching out on hot rocks with a picnic; and of course: watching the rest of the world go by. The beauty of June is the sun has arrived but there’s room to pick your perch without settling for second best. For more active interludes, book a session with Cornish Rock Tors.
In June we dust off the old-faithfuls (wooden belly boards) and head off to Polzeath for some ‘proper surfing’. Catching waves with these is a bit different from the modern synthetic type boards, and we believe they’re far more fun. Instead of catching the top of the wave, launch off (and kick) just ahead of the clean-water swell at the base of the wave. Hey-presto – riding all the way to the beach.
Excitingly, a new fast-ferry service has just started between Padstow and Port Isaac, provided by Wavehunters. In our opinion, this piece of coastline needs enjoying at sea-level for full effect – immersive experiences don’t come better than this (sunscreen recommended).
On the Hoof
Walking the coast path is glorious in June, with vistas straight out of a Poldark scene and hidden inlets to tempt wild swimmers. A water bottle and snack are useful, along with layers for walking from a headwind into a sheltered stretch. From coastal wildflowers to sea life, the cliff path refreshes the soul and is worth every step.
While the hiking gear is on, don’t miss a stroll on local footpaths or Bodmin Moor – Mother Nature’s blossom into summer is at its freshest in early summer.
Two Wheels
June is quintessentially cycle-time at Tom’s Cottage. Bike rides through the country lanes take the explorer between Cornish hedges at their most glorious, through traditional hamlets and on to village pubs. The beach and ice creams are also only a bike ride away.
The freedom of bicycling in low season but with summer in the air is (we believe) decidedly exhilarating.
Why ‘Jaunty’ June?
It’s all about the joviality of summer but at a placid pace. Upbeat yet recapturing the nostalgia of bygone times. And June holds that fresh season vitality – the natural vibrancy of scenery and relaxed earthiness of the locals.
Come try it and see if you agree – we’d love to hear your Jaunty June tales.
Email us at or find us on Facebook/Instagram @tomscottagecornwall
Local events in June
What not to miss from Tom’s Cottage this June, keep an eye on our social pages for updates…
- All June: Lanhydrock Garden, Bodmin (National Trust) - Rhododendroms & Camellias In Bloom event
- Every Friday: Pizza night, The Gastropod at Cornish Tipis - Artisan & wood-fire baked, licensed premises; 10-minute walk from Tom’s Cottage
- 8th – 10th: Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge -Farming & countryside, food & drink, heritage; music, dance & entertainment
- 13th & 27th: Murder Mystery evenings on the Bodmin & Wendford Railway - 1930s style, supper included
- 17th: Flats & Sharps (bluegrass group) at St Endellion - 7.30pm more details endelienta.org.uk
- 17th: Dangerous Dads at Cardinham Woods - 10am-12 noon, Fathers’ Day event
- 17th-18th: Pencarrow mid-summer craft fair - We recommend a look round the house & gardens while there
- 20th: Tintagel Orpheus Male Voice Choir concert at Tintagel Methodist Church, 7 for 7.30 - with guest performance from the Bristol University Madrigal Ensemble
- 23rd: Bristol University Madrigal Ensemble at St Endellion - More detail endelienta.org.uk
- 24th: Jazz in the Garden, the Old Vicarage, St Teath - 5 – 7pm, BYO picnic
