Visions of Cornwall

For as long as I can remember, my family has been travelling to Cornwall for the summer holidays. My mother used to go there when she was a child. The town where she stayed was a stone’s throw from the sea. She would spend her days walking along rugged coastal paths with her siblings, picking wildflowers. In the evenings she would while away the hours playing board games and listening to her parents’ stories. The best part of each day was watching the sunset, which at the height of summer could happen as late as 10pm. My father had never visited England’s south-westernmost county prior to marrying my mother. However, it didn’t take long to convince him of the region’s merits.

Cornwall is famous for its beauty. It is bordered on three sides by the sea, and its lush green landscape and rolling hills are dotted with quaint villages. It is also an ancient county. The archaeological record suggests that Cornwall was inhabited during the Palaeolithic period, and Greek historians wrote accounts describing Cornwall as early as the first century BC. Remarkably, Roman rule did not extend to Cornwall. Even today, with modern roads, the drive from London takes almost five hours. As a child, I found those hours in the car to be arduous. As an adult, I enjoy this time and savour the opportunity to distance myself from the modern world. By the time we turn onto country roads, the urban life I’m used to has usually faded from my mind.

When my sister and I were young, rather than stay in a bed and breakfast, my parents usually booked lodging in a caravan park. The novelty of sleeping in a home on wheels would charm any child, and we were no different. Nevertheless, we were always thrilled by our no-frills accommodation. Looking through the windows, we could see endless countryside in all directions. After breakfast, we had complete freedom to roam nearby fields and explore, whether on our own or with other kids. I feel strongly that all children should have these kinds of experiences. That can only help them to grow into adults.

Of the many wonderful memories I have of Cornwall, perhaps my most treasured are the evenings my family spent at the theatre. Four miles from Land’s End, the westernmost point of England, there is a famed cultural institution called the Minack Theatre. Plays are staged to the thunderous roar of ocean waves with a majestic view of the distant horizon. Even if productions at the Minack were not first-class, which they are, a visit could not help but fill you with awe.

I feel very lucky to have been exposed to such a magnificent part of the world from so early on. Thankfully, my husband agrees that our daughters should have the opportunity to enjoy this exceptional region. On our next visit, three generations of my family will make the trip together for the first time. In light of this, I find myself remembering the words of Alice Hamilton, a local poet. “Love of Cornwall is akin to love of life. When you feel that you can’t go on, there is no recourse but take a break and stroll along the Cornish coast.” So that is what we shall do. And not just this year, but for many more years to come.