It’s hard to believe we’re into October already.

The light’s taken on that softer autumn hue, shadows are lengthening, and the long grasses are full of seed heads.

We’ve been luckier than most with a busy summer — lots of returning guests, a few new ones finding us for the first time, and of course, plenty of dogs heading straight to the front door like they’ve never been away.

Cornwall has been noticeably quieter overall, and many guests have commented on there being fewer people around. But if bookings for next year are anything to go by, the area will be buzzing again in 2026.

Around the Cottage

We’re lucky that the cottage ticks along quietly most of the time. Our new housekeepers have settled in well and are doing a good job by all accounts — but behind the scenes, there’s always something to keep on top of.

This month, our electricity company managed to disconnect the night meter just as we wanted to switch on the storage heaters — not ideal timing. Thankfully, with some very understanding guests, we got it sorted, and everything’s working as it should now.

The garden’s slowing down, as it always does this time of year.
The paddock’s still in full use — even if it’s looking more wild than well-trimmed just now. The recent burst of rain after a dry summer has given the grass a second wind.

There was a point where I didn’t even want to get the mower out, as the grass was so dry it felt like a fire hazard.

The dogs don’t mind — and to be honest, neither do we.

We’ve only got a couple of months before the season winds down completely, and then it’ll be time for the winter jobs that keep the place feeling like home.

Little Local Moments

We’ve had a bit more time to get out and about ourselves this year.
Here are a few favourites from recent weeks:

• Godrevy is always a favourite - great views and walks.
• Marazion Station is good for a quick coffee and breath of sea air when passing.
• Trengwainton Gardens was perfect in the heat - shady, peaceful, and a very decent café.
• Land’s End - I know it’s not to everyone’s taste, but the walks are good and locals get a free parking pass.
• Sennen Cove Walk and Café - the coffee and flapjack were both very decent.
• Geevor for a walk and lunch - always worth a visit.
• Cape Cornwall and Botallack - both lovely National Trust sites, right on our doorstep.

Reading that back, it seems most of our outings are based around food and coffee. I’ll take that. 

The gallery below shows a few of our photos and visits this month.

Still Here Dog Training, Just Working Differently

Some of you who’ve been coming for a while may have noticed I’m not out and about quite as much doing dog training. Someone asked recently if I was still doing it - and the answer is 100% yes.

What’s changed is the how. These days I’m doing more online work and home visits, and I’ve reshaped the structure of what I offer to suit where I’m at now.

Truth is, age catches up with all of us. Ten years ago, standing in a field for hours on end felt fine. Now my body’s making it clear that’s not always the best idea. So I’ve made some shifts - not stepping back, just working differently. And in many ways, more effectively.

So if you would like to do a little training while you are here, just let me know and we can schedule you in.

Looking Ahead

October’s usually a full month for us, and while it’s a bit quieter this year, there are still opportunities to book.
It’s a great time to visit - warm days, quiet roads, and dog-friendly beaches make it a favourite for those who know the area well.

December is also a great time for a break, with the Mousehole and Angarrack Christmas lights adding a bit of seasonal magic.

There’s still time to squeeze in a getaway before the year’s out - or to get something in the diary for spring, when the coast path is quiet and the wildflowers begin to creep in again.

Thanks for reading - and for being part of what makes this place so special.