As we are hit by yet more strong winds and rain I loose track of what storm is about to batter us. But when the world is rough outside there is one thing sure to brighten my day – a good hot chocolate. Now along with millionaires shortbread I am a little bit of an expert on where to get the best hot chocolate – mainly because they are one of my favourite things; and as the girls get older they too are becoming connoisseurs of such things! So if you are staying with us and need a little hug in a mug on a damp day (not that we have many of them in Cornwall!) then here are my top five hot chocolate locations.
- The Beach Hut at Watergate Bay has some of the finest views on offer in Cornwall and does one of the best hot chocolates for children and adults. A mountain of cream is topped with marshmallows and chocolate coins. A real treat after a windswept walk on the beach. Exceptionally child and doggy friendly.
- Woods Cafe at Cardinham Woods is a hidden gem. Not only are the hot chocolates pretty special the cakes are delicious too. There is a lovely natural play area, walks and bike trails of varying lengths and lots of parking and toilets too.
- The Cafe at Lanhydrock – this National Trust Cafe offers a wide selection of yummy treats, loads of sitting indoors and out and a fabulous hot chocolate with mountains of cream. The cafe is next to the large adventure play ground, cycle hire and toilets. There is lots of parking and for the small parking charge of £3 (free if NT member) the cafe and play area are a wonderful day out.
- The Lost Gardens of Heligan, as regular readers will know I love Heligan – and their hot chocolates do not disappoint. Made to order they will make it whatever tempertaure your little one likes, so pretty much cold for our girls. But with cream, sprinkles and marshmallows it hits the spot. And I have to say their food just keeps getting better. On Friday we popped up their for lunch and I had one of the best plates of food I have had in a long time. It was only lamb on a flatbread with salad, but it was seriously flavorsome.
- Caerhays Beach – BYO. Yep, sometimes the best things are home made and one of my favourite things in the whole wide world is to take our Kelly Kettle (more on this awesome piece of kit next time) and brew up our very own hot chocolate whilst the children play and adults chat. Views don’t get much better than the magical Caerhays; the little protected cove is a short drive from Little Winnick and well worth a visit…you will probably find me down there!
For more information of our family holiday camping in St Austell please please email us or give us a call on 01726 843687.