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Things to do

Lots to explore, see and do

on your doorstep and further afield

With their easily accessible location, Rowse Holiday Cottages provide an excellent base from which to explore some of the attractions of both Devon and Cornwall.

Cornwall’s rugged coastline and quaint villages are the backdrop for many Films, TV series and books. Take time out to explore the literary world of Rosamunde Pilcher, shooting locations for Poldark, Doc Martin and Beyond Paradise, to name a few.

We list below a selection of useful links and things you could do:

Local attractions & activities

Here are a few of the sights we feel you may enjoy while you are in the Tamar Valley.
They are all within a half hour drive.

Cotehele House

A National Trust property about a 10 minute drive away, on the edge of the Tamar River. It has an interesting quayside with a museum and an old mill. There is a tea-shop on the quay, a ferry to Calstock & Morwhellam (tidal) and a super walk through the woods, also to Calstock.

Cycling or Canoeing

Cycling or Canoeing on the Tamar – see Tamar Trails website for more information below. Several beaches have kayaks for hire: Search for Millendreath, Looe & Cawsand.

Whitsand Bay

Miles of golden sandy beach at low tide (check online for tide times). There is good surfing here, search online for Adventure Bay Surf School for a lesson, or for paddleboarding and coasteering.

Rame Head

Fabulous walk along the cliffs towards Cawsand with a 500 year old chapel situated on the headland. Stunning views from this point, plus you can take a fantastic circular walk (5.6 miles/9km) boasting wild panoramic views.

Cremyll & Mount Edgcumbe

Follow signs for Mount Edgcumbe. It's free to walk around the country park, incorporating part of the South West Coastal footpath. There are short walks or more lengthy treks, scenic cycle routes, Adventure Segway for hire and regular events and exhibitions. The Cremyll foot-passenger ferry crosses to Plymouth, a fun way to reach the Royal William Yard area enjoy sea views.

Antony House

18th century National Trust property with well maintained gardens located edge of the river Lynher. There's a friendly tea room which sells cream teas, homemade food and delicious ice-cream. Alternatively seek refreshments at the Wilcove Inn 'gastro' pub only 4 mins drive from Antony and has great reviews.

Looe

This popular fishing port is only a short drive away from Rowse Farm. There is one main beach in the centre of Looe (not dog friendly) however very child friendly and safe. Looe has some lovely independent shops and a great range of eateries; fresh fish & chips, bakeries for pasties, savouries & cake, ice-cream outlets - Looe has it all. ..and see if you can spot the Shipton Abbott Police station, featured in the "Beyond Paradise" TV series..

Polperro

Polperro is a picturesque friendly fishing village lined with ancient fishermen's cottages - definitely worth a visit. Access it by walking along the South West Coastal path, or there's a big car park from which you can walk into the centre. In June there's a week long annual live music & arts festival. Enjoy the range of local art on display, 3 top rated pubs and even a Heritage museum.

Train Rides

Try a different mode of transport and enjoy Cornwall via train. Take a ride from Gunnislake station (15 mins) to Plymouth, following the river Tamar, over the 120ft high Calstock viaduct looking down on the river below, plus views of Cotehele. You can bring your dog along for the journey as well, it's roughly a 45 min trip.

Plymouth

The Barbican and the Hoe are well worth the visit. Plymouth city has a large shopping mall, historic Barbican, 2 cinemas, huge choice of bars and restaurants, plus the National marine aquarium.

Tavistock

The beautiful town of Tavistock is a key part of the West Devon and East Cornwall UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Devon town is famous for its indoor pannier market, regular farmers' markets, plus there's an indoor swimming pool and events venue at the Wharf. Search for listtings.

Adrenalin Quarry

Only 20mins drive from Rowse farm is the high energy, widely extensive aqua park with inflatables to climb, bounce and slide on and off!, The zip wire is 490m long - you reach speeds of 40mph. There's a giant swing, axe throwing sessions, go karting for all, plus wild swimming in the quarry. Visit & book via the website.

Beaches

There are some glorious beaches in Cornwall, but please take care as the tides can be 5 to 6 metres and there are often strong undercurrents and rip tides. Sadly, a number of people lose their lives each year around our coastline. In season, there are Lifeguards on many beaches, but not all. Look out for the signs and if a red flag is flying, DO NOT go into the sea.

You can check the tide times and heights here before you go – please check with us if you are not sure!

Whitsand Bay

This is our nearest beach and at low tide it is big. It is about 1⁄2 hour from Rowse. Take the A38 westbound and turn left at Trerulefoot towards Looe, then follow signs to Torpoint and then turn right towards Cawsand. Take a right turn towards Freathy and you will see a large Victorian fort (Tregantle) on your right. You can park along the road here, but keep off the roadway. As long as the red flag is not flying you can walk down to the beach. There is good surf here, but no lifeguard. There are a number of beaches along the bay and some do have lifeguards on them. Do remember to check the tide times and be careful if the tide is coming in.

Seaton and Downderry

On the western side of Whitsand bay. Adjoining beaches that at low tide you can walk between. Seaton is the more popular and has ample parking and has several eateries/cafe (Smugglers Inn, The Beach House, Seaton Beach Cafe). Downderry is a little further but has a lovely pub, The Inn on the Shore, sitting on the top of the rocks looking over the beach. Parking is free (for 3 hours) if you are visiting the pub and the food is very good.

Cawsand & Kingsand

There are small, safe, sandy beaches at both Cawsand and Kingsand, which are great for kids. Excellent cafés are close by and there are a few good pubs in both adjoining villages. Cawsand has a large carpark which is only a few minutes walk from the beach. Another 'day trip' is to take the foot passenger ferry from Cawsand to the Barbican in Plymouth. This is seasonal service so ensure you check the 'Cawsand Ferry' website.

Looe

There is a large, safe, sandy beach in East Looe. Again, great for kids and there are plenty of shops and cafes in the village centre. There is a car park just before the bridge in East Looe, or across the bridge in West Looe. Looe is extremly popular during Easter and Summer months with a vast number of fish & chip, pasty, ice-cream, fudge & cakes shops, a few boutique clothes shops. "Crabbing" is a popular activity, plus for those wishing to get out on the water 'Looe Self Drive Boat Hire' is a splendid way to enjoy river views for a reasonable price.

North Cornwall

All along the north coast there are many big surfing beaches – e.g. Newquay (Fistral beach hosts international surfing competitions) Perranporth, Sennen, Constantine and Watergate Bay to name a few. Nearly all have lifegurards in season. From many of these North Cornwall beaches you can book a surf or SUP lesson, hire boards or for the more adventurous coasteering is an enjoyable sport. Please note that the tidal currents can be dangerous, so make sure you follow the lifeguards’ instructions & flags, and never underestimate the sea.

Bude

This sandy north coast location is about 45 minutes away from Rowse Farm. It is another popular surfing area and has amazing beaches both in the town and further along the coast. Summerleaze boasts golden sand and has a sea pool. Crooklets Beach is also sandy, there's a café and children's play area, huts to rent and showers. Bude has other beaches to enjoy; Millook, Black Rock, Widemouth, Northcott, Sandymouth and Duck pool - spoilt for choice!

Pubs & pub food

The Weary Friar

The Weary Friar (01579 350238) in Pillaton is your local, owned and run by Ryan & Trina. It is just a short stroll up the road (15 minutes). Best to call and book a table if you want food, especially in high season.

Who’d Have Thought It Inn

Who’d Have Thought It Inn (01579 350214) at St Dominick. Good food and a popular eating place, with great views across the Tamar Valley. Call to book a table or visit their website for more information

Rod and Line

Rod and Line (01752 851912) at Tideford. Great local pub with good, fresh fish and often has a live band. It’s a small pub so booking is essential for food or drink.

Springer Spaniel

Springer Spaniel (01579 370424) in Treburley. This is an award winning ‘foodie’ pub which is about a 20 minute drive through Callington towards Launceston. Open from Wednesdays to Sundays (Sun 12-4). Booking is essential!

The Rifle Volunteer

The Rifle Volunteer boasts dramatic views over the River Tamar and the surrounding countryside. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, great home cooked classic pub dishes, real ales and a wide selection of drinks. Again, booking is required (01822 851551).

The Crooked Inn

The Crooked Inn is a family run traditional country pub & hotel. Seasonal à la carte menu with daily specials. They serve a carvery on Sundays. (01752 848177)

Restaurants

Crocadon Farm

Crocadon is on our doorstep and a foodies delight ! Dan Cox and his team have created a wonderful Michelin Starred restaurant that focuses 'field to fork' organic produce, much of which is grown on the estate or sourced from like minded, local suppliers. Bookings are a must and can be made via EMail at : info@crocadon.farm

Nathan Outlaw

Nathan Outlaw. Famous for local fish, The Michelin Starred restaurateur Nathan Outlaw has 2 restaurants in Port Isaac. Both restaurants take booking several weeks in advance - but it’s worth checking for any cancellations and lunch bookings are easier to make than evenings.

Heskyn Mill

Heskyn Mill Restaurant (01752 852127). Tucked away in Tideford, less than 15 minutes away from our cottages this charming venue is a bit special. These 'Taste of the West' members proudly support local food producers, using fresh local ingredients and enjoy excellent reviews.

The Crows Nest

The Crows Nest at Darite (01579 345930) is located just off the Caradon trail in a beautiful part of Cornwall on the edge of Bodmin Moor. A historic inn with cosy interior, pub garden, serving real ales and generous food portions, it's also dog friendly so an idea destination after a big walk or cycle across the moors.

Foreign Muck

Foreign Muck, Fore Street, Saltash (01752 841133). Don’t be put off by the name... there’s a story behind it! The restaurant has a great vibe and is run by two local brothers. The food is varied, around a “Tex/Mex” theme and the bar stocks some lovely craft beers. Burgers are excellent, as are the salad dishes – we love it and it has been receiving some great reviews.

Old Barbican

It really is worth going down to the old Barbican in Plymouth (also accessible via the ferry services). There are lots of lovely restaurants there on Sutton Quay and walking along the Hoe is fun. Rockfish (01752 255974) is good and Barbican Kitchen (01752 604448) above the Plymouth Gin Distillery is also popular.

Royal William Yard

The Royal William Yard in Plymouth is a great spot for a stroll around the old Royal Navy’s victualling yard, where you can relax in the many cafés and restaurants. Our recommendation is to catch the Cremyll or Mount Edgecombe Ferries and make a day of it.

The Artillery Tower

One of our favourite restaurants in Plymouth is The Artillery Tower, (01752 257610) where we got engaged! If you you're celebrating a special occasion then this 15th century tower overlooking Plymouth Sound is a great choice. (35 mins drive).

Edgecumbe Tea Room

The Edgecumbe Tea Room (01579 352717) at Cotehele Quay. Down by the river Tamar at Cotehele. Simple local menu serving coffee and light lunches. Only 15 minutes away.

The Three Pilchards

The Three Pilchards in Polperro is a lovely old pub/restaurant to spend a few hours, soaking in the view of a typical Cornish fishing village. Food is a delight.

The Balti King

The Balti King, Callington (01759 383818). If you like warm to hot curries, then this is the place for you. Really good food and 10% off if you pay cash for takeaways. A favourite of ours!

The Saltash Tandoori

The Saltash Tandoori (01752 848194). Has a great reputation for Indian food and has been serving customers for over 30 years. They offer a discount for take away food.

Provisions, groceries & farm shops

Waitrose, Saltash

There is a Waitrose 10 minutes away. Turn left out of Rowse and left again at the top of the hill. Keep on this road to Hatt. Turn right towards Saltash, and at the second mini roundabout turn left – signposted ‘Superstore’.

Lidl, Saltash

Turn left out of Rowse and left again at the top of the hill. Keep on this road to Hatt. Turn right towards Saltash, and straight on at the next two mini roundabouts and then straight on at the big A38 roundabout. Lidl is on the left, just past McDonalds.

Hatt Service Centre

Basic provisions and a post office (Tuesdays and Thursdays only) can be found at Hatt Service Station. The garage itself also has a service centre if you need it.

Saltash Town

In Saltash you will find a butcher, greengrocer, banks and most essentials. There is also a train station providing links to Plymouth and south to other parts of Cornwall.

Tesco Superstore, Callington

Tesco superstore with petrol station - usually the cheapest around.

Callington Town

In Callington there is a Spar with a post office in it, greengrocer, chemist and bank.

Tre, Pol & Pen

A Cornish farm shop & restaurant rooted in the Tamar Valley. Quality fresh produce and flavours from the region and beyond.

Tamar Valley Meats

Next to Tamar View Garden Centre on the A388, which is on your right going towards Saltash. They have some lovely locally sourced meats.

Paul Bray & Son Butchers

Paul Bray At Tideford, about 5 miles away on the A38 as you drive west into Cornwall. There is an excellent selection of local meats and you can also pick up hot pasties for a picnic as you drive past.

Pengelly’s Fishmongers

Looe is the place for fresh fish! Visit Pengelly’s next to the fish market. You won’t get fresher fish that straight off the boat. They usually also have lobster, fresh crab, and wonderful locally caught seafood.

Applejack Barn

Tamar View Garden Centre (mentioned above) has a number of local businesses on site, including good greengrocer and general shop that sells local produce.

Helluva Pasties

Our traditional Cornish speciality! There are good pasties and bad pasties, so choose carefully. Our favourites are those made locally, sold between 10am & 1pm on the roadside on the A388 towards Callington. Turn left at the Hatt roundabout and the pasty man is on the on the left hand side in about half a mile.

Walking

From the cottages

Walk up the hill and across the road towards Pillaton. Opposite the pub walk down the Row, then follow the footpath across the fields to join the road. Turn right and walk to Clapper Bridge before retracing your steps and returning via the quiet road through Pillaton. About 1 1⁄2 hours.

Kit Hill

This is a 15 minute drive on the way to Tavistock. It is a really interesting walk with far reaching views and much industrial architecture.

Newbridge

Turn left out of the cottages, up the hill and then turn right at the top towards Callington. Walk right along the road until the junction (about 1 1⁄2 miles) and then take the second country lane on the left (about 10 O’Clock). Continue along this road all the way down the hill until you reach the junction at the end. Turn left over the bridge and left again to walk on the other side of the river. Either walk along the river, or up the hill to Cadson Bury Fort, which offers some great views.

Tamar Valley

Follow the road towards Tavistock and at Gunnislake cross the bridge into Devon. Go up the hill and then turn left into a car park at Sawmill. From here you can walk for miles along the River Tamar. If you drop back down and walk back across the bridge into Cornwall then you can pick up the Tamar Valley Discovery Trail.

Cotehele

Follow the signs from the A388. There are many beautiful walks along the River Tamar from here and around the old estate.

Looe & Hannafore

From the centre of Looe go across the bridge and take the next left on the other side of the river and harbour. This road leads up to a headland with fabulous views. You can park at the end (or park in the town and walk to the end of the headland) and from here you can pick up the South West Coastal Path and walk along to Talland Bay where there is a café – or further on to Polperro if you’re keen!

Rame Peninsula

Park at Rame Head and it is a short walk to the chapel or take the South West Coastal Path to Cawsand and Kingsand where there are pubs and cafes (1 hour each way).

Maker Heights

Park at Maker Church. From here there are great walks to Cremyll (walk towards the sea and turn left), or Cawsand (walk towards the sea and turn right).

Cremyll

Turn right and walk through Mount Edgecumbe woods to Cawsand. (About 1 hour each way).

Dartmoor

There are many fantastic walks on these historical moors, but take a map and take care – they are wild places and the weather can change quickly.

View on website

Bodmin Moor

Explore The Hurlers stone Circles, Trevethy Quoit at Minions and The Cheesewring all on Bodmin Moor. This area is wild and exposed with many fantastic walks on these historical moors, however be prepared with hiking boots and a waterproof layer as the weather can change rapidly. Always keep your dog on a lead.

View on website

The South West Coast Path

Stretches around the whole coast of Cornwall and has some superb sections on it. A few examples are Sennen Cove to Porthcurno which goes through Lands End, Constantine Bay to Padstow and Boscastle to Tintagel. A favourite close to Rowse Farm is the stretch from Looe to Polperro.

View on website

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