Yeghes da! That’s ‘cheers’ in Cornish if you didn’t already know.
Cornwall has undoubtedly got its place firmly on the UK’s foodie map, but in recent years it has also made its mark on the drinkers map too. Right here in North Cornwall alone we’ve seen a booming rise in distillers, brewers and winemakers ensuring the region is not left behind.
So raise a glass with us, and enjoy some fantastic, locally produced tipples. Here are some of our favourites.
Sharps Brewery
We’ve got to start this list with some of our favourites. And we love Sharps Brewery. Based at Rock, Sharps like us are surrounded by the elements- air, sea and rock. Overlooking the Atlantic, they aim to leave as little environmental footprint as possible, often raising much needed funds in support of Surfers Against Sewage. Not to mention their ales are outstanding.
You don’t have to go far to try Sharps Cold River Cider (crisp and moreish, with Cornish sea salt and Westcountry apples) and Atlantic Pale Ale (citrus aromas and maybe even a touch of candy floss) for yourself – we’ve got them on draft in the Harlyn Sands Clubhouse.
Cornish Rattler (Healeys)
Its crisp and fresh flavour named after the feisty Cornish rattler snake certainly lives up to its name.
A visit to Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm promises a “world of apples, imagination and adventure.” Take a guided tour of the brewery, visit the petting farm or tickle those taste buds. Look out for the iconic draft pump when out and about around the region.
Healeys is also home to the makers of England’s oldest whiskey!
Padstow Brewing Company
Multi award winning brewery just along the road in Padstow, serving up craft beers, IPAs, stout and pilsner.
Stop by the Tasting Room in town to enjoy a wide selection of draft beers and small plates, or visit the brewery for an “in-depth beer experience” and learn all there is to know about Padstow’s very own brewing company.
Driftwood Spars Brewery
“Each hand-crafted, small-batch brew combines tradition and innovation to bring beer lovers an award-winning range of gluten-free beers.” Founded in 2000 overlooking the beautiful Trevaunance Cove, the brewery makes small batched beers using British malts and increasingly English hops too.
Atlantic Brewery and Distillery
Premium, organic, unrefined real ales brewed on the North Coast (just outside Newquay), and organic, handcrafted, artisan spirits. Made using 100% organic ingredients, many of which are grown in their own distillery gardens, or wild-harvested across Cornwall, mixed with Cornish still water – it truly is the taste of Cornwall.
Bombo Rum
“The drink of pirates” originating from an 18th century pirate recipe. Bombo blends golden rum with caramel, spices and fruit.
Camel Valley Vineyard
Producers of award-winning, world-class wines in our beautiful corner of Cornwall since 1989.
Visit the vineyard overlooking the valley to sample their wines, or take a guided tour around the winery and learn about the process.
Tarquin’s Cornish Gin
Inspired by the wild Cornish Coast from their distillery perched on a cliff along the North Cornwall coast (near Newquay).
Tarquin’s is home to the “World’s best gin” – Tarquin’s Sea Dog Navy Strength Gin (crowned in 2017 at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition) and many other award winning gins and Cornish Pastis- a modern take on the classic French aniseed spirit.
This of course, is just the tip of the iceberg of fantastic breweries and distilleries in the region that are well worth a sample or visit.
Look out for these during your visit to Harlyn Sands and let us know your favourites. Then settle down in the van and finish your day with a divine hot cup of Cornish Tea.
Yeghes Da!
(Drink responsibly)
