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Caradon Hill
The television mast rising above this ancient hill can be seen for many miles around, and provides a useful landmark for those morrland walkers who are not expert map readers.  King Charles I mustered his troops here on 2 August 1644 before they went on to a notable victory at Castle Dor.   Copper was discovered here in 1837 and signaled the beginning of the boom which changed the character of the eastern moor.

The Cheesewring
A natural formation of much photographed balancing rocks on Stowe's Hill above the long neglected Cheesewring Quarry.   Daniel Gumb's 'house' and an iron age fort are close at hand.   Come to this spot alone on a crisp winters day, sit here a while and your thoughts will slip back in time.    How often must this steep hillside have rung to the clash of Iron Age weapons and the cries of warring men?   No one knows the answer.   No excavations have taken place to uncover the secrets of the past.

The Cheesewring Quarry with 120 ft Granite Faces

King Doniert's Stone
At the side of the road between Redgate and Minions, the inscription, in Latin, tells us that the stone was erected for the good of King Doniert's soul.   Being a Cornish King, or Chieftain who was accidentally drowned in the nearby River Fowey (pronounced Foy) in 878 AD.   He is reputed to be the last Cornish King, but this honour probably goes to King Ricatus who ruled Cornwall in the 10th Century.
Golitha Falls
Just after King Doniert's Stone turn right.   The River Fowey drops through an attractive wooded valley in a series of falls

The Eden Project
We are all very excited to have the Eden Project in Cornwall, and so close to us here at Minions.  The Eden Project comprise giant biospheres recreating tropical rainforest and warm temperate regions.

www.edenproject.com

The Biosphere Structures

The Eden Project nearly finished

The Foil Panels are put in place

The Village Green in Minions

The Minion Stone Circle

On the edge of the village of Minions these standing stones stand watch.   Originally the stones here formed part of three circles, erected about 1500 BC, they are probably the best known stone circles on the moor because they are so readily accessible.   Many theories have been put forward as to the uses to which they were put.  They have been variously described from places of human sacrifice,  meeting place for moorland chiefs or part of an ancient religion which used the stones to mark the movements of the Sun and the Moon.   Legend has it that the stones were once men and women, turned to stone for playing the ancient game of hurling on a Sunday - hence the name.

Sharptor

Seen from the kitchen window and easily accessible   Sharptor commands a breathtaking view of the whole of East Cornwall - and beyond.    On a clear day it is possible to see the sea to both north and south coasts.    Tor is a common name for rocky outcrops on the moors.

Sibleyback Reservoir
A man made lake, the dam was completed in 1969, covering 140 acres and well stocked with fish.  This is popular place with anglers and boating enthusiasts, but it is rarely crowded.   In the winter the reservior becomes a lonely part of the moor, providing a haven for a large variety of birds, some resident, others casual visitors

These are times of village fairs, local customs, religious celebration and family reunion. Some have faded away but thankfully many still flourish and enable towns and villages to hold on to their indivuality ----May the Celtic spirit endure. 

St Piran’s day – March. With processions banners and church service. The Patron Saint of Cornish Tinners, who, legend tells us, sailed across the Irish Sea on a millstone, and discovered tin smelting. In the old days it was a miners holiday and the emblem of white cross on black background, tin against rock, has become adopted as the 'national' flag.

Trevithick Day – April. To celebrate Camborne’s greatest son Richard Trevithick 'father of the locomotive' who died in 1833. Money is raised for charities and processions have included traction engines, vintage cars, bands, dancers and choirs.

May Day at Padstow – Obby Oss. A very popular occasion, a unique welcome to summer – for those who love song and dance and energetic fun. The insistent beat of the drums as the Oss swirls through the streets of Padstow, singing,the music of acordions, the 'Teazing' of the Oss, characters, decorations all contribute to the richness of a May Day tradition so clearly cherished.

Helston Flora Day – May.  Summer is a come – O and Winter is a gone –O.A day of dance and charm. All eyes are on the ladies in their picture hats and beautiful dresses. The dancers start early in the morning and the children’s dance around 10.30 in the morning is one of special appeal. As the clock strikes mid-day at the Guildhall, the band begins to play and the dancers emerge into a blend of history and theatre as they travel along the traditional route to complete the circle of the town.

Royal Cornwall Show – Wadebridge. Early June – Thursday, Friday, Saturday.    One of the best shows in the country, to much too see  in a day.Livestock and professional husbandry lie at the heart of this Royal show, but it appeals to town as well as country people with a great range of interests and entertainment. Too many to mention but including a delicious food hall with all Cornish produce ( including pasties and thick clotted cream – Yummy ) W.I tent, Cornish Crafts, dog shows, flower shows, show jumping, fun fair and much more for all the family.