Cornwall LivingAutumn 2018
Porthleven’s finest
Inspiring independent businesses bringing, quality artisan produce back to the Fore.
Twisted Currant Tearoom
Twisted Currant is a traditional, family-run tearoom serving Cornish grown tea in bone china cups. Run by Susan and Michael Pant, Michael tells us: “All our cakes and scones are home made on the premises by Susan, and our team of excellent cooks create delicious homemade specials and daily items for the menu.” Luscious traditional cream teas are served with Boddington’s strawberry jam and Rodda’s clotted cream together with modern twists of Chocolate Cream Tea and Gentleman’s Cheese Cream Tea. Michael continues: “We cater for all dietary requirements so our vegan, gluten and dairy-free customers have a varied choice from the menu to enjoy among friends and family. And our staff always extend a warm welcome to customers to give you that extra special feeling of comfort and service.”
The tearoom is just 50 yards from the harbour and provides the perfect respite after a leisurely stroll or a more tiring hike along the South West Coast Path, which passes through Porthleven. Here at Cornwall Living we recommend the delectable afternoon tea with finger sandwiches and cakes accompanied with a fresh-ground coffee, or one of the full-flavoured Tregothnan teas as part of an indulgent and beautifully baked Cornish Cream Tea.
THE TWISTED CURRANT TEAROOM
10 Fore Street, Porthleven TR13 9JH
01326 565999
Essa Collection
Chic and independent, Essa Collection is a family business that stocks an original selection of women’s clothing and accessories, all chosen for their quality and individuality by entrepreneur and fashionista, Vanessa Stevens. In a recent interview, Vanessa explains how she travels the world to find the best pieces for her customers. “It may not be the cheapest way to source clothing” Vanessa tells us, “but it does mean that we are able to supply unique items. All our clothes are hand-selected and because we mostly buy only one of each we always have a huge collection to choose from.” As well as clothing, Vanessa also stocks a stunning array of scarves, bags and jewellery, including a range of silver jewellery from her brother Craig.
New this season is a beautiful selection of bamboo socks for both men and women; perfect as the days get colder, or as a stocking filler! The shop is warm and welcoming and displays the popular autumnal colours of orange, mustard and brown, which are on trend this season. And make sure to visit the shop soon and snap up one of the popular stripy tops made of soft, luxurious cotton, as these won’t be stocked next season! Celebrating four years since opening this month, Essa Collection is going from strength to strength and has become a firm favourite among locals and holidaymakers alike for its welcoming boutique style shop, beautiful products and personal service.
ESSA COLLECTION
5 Fore Street, Porthleven TR13 9HQ
01326 572236
Stargazey
You’ll find Stargazey Gift and Home perfectly positioned on Fore Street, between The Corner Deli and the Twisted Currant. This delightful gift shop is full of unusual gifts and beautiful accessories for your home, from mermaids made in Boscastle, to handcrafted mirrors and lamps created on the Roseland peninsula. Owner Deb opened Stargazey almost six years ago and it’s clear to see that she has a talent for sourcing gorgeous products from artists and small design companies.
From gorgeous ceramics and an array of wall art to hand carved animals and a range of beautiful woollen blankets to cosy up in, there is something to suit everyone’s taste – all carefully laid out for customers to enjoy. A range of greetings cards and wrapping paper are also available and add the final touch if you are looking for a present for a friend or loved one. The shop is open seven days a week and Deb offers a warm welcome and helpful service to all her customers. Preparations are already being made for the 2018 Christmas window, which will be revealed at October half term. Deb says the theme is ‘Smoke and Feathers’ this year – very intriguing! Check out the website and Facebook page for more information.
STARGAZEY GIFTS & HOME
10 Fore Street, Porthleven TR13 9HJ
01326 569246