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  1. A beautiful gift guide from St Michael's Resort:

    https://www.stmichaelsresort.com/journal/cornwall-gift-ideas-for-friends-and-family

    Cornwall gift ideas for friends and family 

    CORNWALL GIFT IDEAS FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY

    Cornwall is a county of contrast. Stunning and quaint locations sit alongside rugged coastlines and deep, craggy rocks, but one thing that never dwindles is the flocks of tourists that travel to the county every year to enjoy the picturesque sights and peaceful corners. For those who love Cornwall, have fond memories within its borders or are planning to visit in the future, then a Cornish gift is irreplaceable. Birthdays, Christmas or just an excuse to treat someone, Cornwall is full of unique and independent gift companies just waiting to share their goods with you all. Continue reading to find some of the very best thoughtful gifts for the special people in your life, as well as comments and quotes from the gift makers themselves.

    Cornish Magpie
    CORNISH MAGPIE

     

    Cornish Magpie is run by Shirley and is an online retailer full of wonderful gifts inspired by the local Cornish coastline. Full of unique, quirky, and homemade trinkets, this is the perfect website to visit for a meaningful gift all year round. We spoke to Shirley about Cornish Magpie and asked her what gifts she would recommend and why, she commented:

     “The new ‘Gifts’ section on the website will help provide lots of inspiration for you. Bring back memories of happy holidays in Cornwall - or rekindle memories of where you used to live. How about a mug and coaster set, in a range of wonderful, nautical designs? Or a Christmas bauble for your tree? And not forgetting the all-important Nadelik Lowen Christmas cards, available individually or in great value packs.”

     

     Shirley explains a little more about the importance of shopping local and why a Cornish-made gift is extra-special: “As a micro-business, I’m totally reliant on customers who love Cornwall, love the ocean and want to shop small - and I appreciate every single order, no matter how tiny. Buying small means you impact me as an individual, and every purchase gets me excited – and you’ll also get help and assistance directly from myself should you need it. Buying small & buying local means the world to all small businesses and supports the local economy immensely. Cornwall is full of the most amazing artists and crafters who all deserve our support. I, for one, will be buying local again this year for all my Christmas gifts. I hope you do too.”

    Great gifts from Cornish Magpie: 


    ·        Mini Shoal of Fish Cosmetic Bag

    ·        Christmas Spice Soap

    ·        Cotton Tote Bag - Puffin

    ·        Candle in a Tin - Seaside Sundae

     

    Cornish Whispers
    CORNISH WHISPERS

     

    With a passion for all things handmade, Cornish Whispers is a family business run by husband-and-wife team Adam and Emily. The website is full of gifts, most of which can be personalised with special dates, names and places, making them perfect for wedding presents, christening gifts, unique Christmas or birthday presents.

     We asked the duo at Cornish Gifts what locally-made gifts they would recommend as a special Christmas present: “New for this Christmas is our adorable wooden Christmas House box, which is a take on our personalised Christmas Eve box that can be engraved with the receiving families name which can then be filled with any treats of your choice. For anyone mad about surfing then our Surfer Wall Art which can be personalised with the recipient’s name will look great on any wall. And for the most special person in your life, why not treat them to our beautiful and popular Song Lyric Wall art, so that special song can be immortalised and admired daily. Made from reclaimed timber with a natural wax finish.”

     

    Cornish Whispers is the perfect place for anyone looking for a totally unique but immensely thoughtful gift, that has been lovingly handmade near the Cornish coast. We asked Adam and Emily why they think a Cornish gifts will be well-received by your loved one:

     “A handmade gift from Cornwall, especially a personalised one, shows that you have really thought about your recipient and gone out of the way to find something special that won't be destined to landfill, whilst supporting a local Cornish business at the same time. A personalised gift from Cornish Whispers is a quality keepsake that will be treasured for years to come.”

     Great gifts from Cornish Whispers:
     

    ·         Gin & Tonic Wooden Chopping Board

    ·         Family Tree in a Glass Frame

    ·         Wooden Christmas Lantern

    ·         Alice in Wonderland Sign

     

     

    POPPY TREFFRY
    POPPY TREFFRY

    Handmade trinkets from sunny Cornwall, Poppy Treffry is a shop full of gifts and quality souvenirs, perfect for those looking to enjoy a touch of this seaside county in their home. If you’re not planning to visit Cornwall any time soon but want to enjoy some of Poppy’s goodies, then head to the Poppy Treffry website to grab your gifts. We spoke to Molly, one of the team at Poppy Treffry about the shop and a little more about the  gifts, she explained what makes them extra-special:

     “A Poppy Treffry product is a treat at any time of the year, but at Christmas when you are looking for something a bit different you can’t go wrong with one of her freehand machines embroidered designs.

     

     

    Originally created by Poppy on an old Singer sewing machine in her studio in Penzance and stitched by a small team of local women there is love poured into each piece. Dog, seagulls, wildflowers and more feature on embroidered and printed designs all inspired by Poppy’s Cornish childhood and coastal walks with her family and pooch.”

     Great gifts from Poppy Treffry:
     

    ·         Seaside holiday tote bag

    ·         St. Ives bone China mug

    ·         Cheeky seagull - set of 4 coasters

    ·         Bee-friendly tea towel

     

     

    A GIFT FROM CORNWALL
    A GIFT FROM CORNWALL

    As the name may suggest the Cornish store, A Gift From Cornwall, can offer you some of the best gifts from the county. From pottery to food, hampers, skincare and much more, the website is jam-packed with gifts for friends and family of all ages and interests. We spoke to Alex Gibbon from A Gift From Cornwall and asked him what makes their gifts extra special.

     “We pride ourselves in giving our customers the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of Cornish made food, drink, pottery and skincare and other gifts. Each of our products has its own unique story. We stock biscuits, local tea, fudge, and chocolate all of which can be packed in a small gift bag or box or wicker hamper, depending on your budget. The pandemic has taught us it is more important to not only shop locally and support local business but also share your favourite products with your loved ones. Each product is made within Cornwall and packaged sustainably ready to be gifted. We have a wide range of ready to go hampers that have been carefully selected but also with the opportunity to customise a hamper to suit the individual, be it by taste, allergy, or personal preference.”

    Naturally Cornish
    NATURALLY CORNISH

    Naturally Cornish prides itself on creating unique products that are sourced from the local land and crafted from the rugged sea. The site is now home to a plethora of Cornish independents who all share the same passion for sustainability and locally produced products.

     We spoke to Lily from Naturally Cornish, and they told us why they think a Cornish and sustainably-made product is the ideal gift: “Cornwall has so much to give, and our natural environment is unlike anywhere else in the world. It is home to some of the most innovative and sustainable brands, which value the outstanding beauty, environment, and extraordinary heritage of this special county. From premium food and drink to locally-sourced, organic skincare, Cornish brands are becoming the leader for ethical, high-quality and handcrafted products, that focus on time-honoured skill and passion. You won’t be finding these gifts anywhere else in the world.”

    Great gifts from Naturally Cornish:
     

    Lily offered us some details on some of their favourite products that would make amazing birthday and Christmas presents for people of all ages, they commented “You deserve the most magical Christmas this year, that's why at Naturally Cornish we've prepared it all - from advent calendars, handcrafted decorations to the perfect gifts. Surprise your loved ones with something from the best Cornish independents.”


    ·  Naturally Cornish have created the ultimate Cornish feast with their exclusive festive hampers. You simply can't beat the celebratory combination of fine Cornish Brut, delicious chocolates and handmade cheese; making these wickers of wonder one of the most popular presents to give... and receive.


    ·  Get into the festive spirit with Naturally Cornish’s expansive range of luxury gins, whiskeys, liqueurs and craft beers. Created and distilled among rolling fields and rugged coastlines, make this Christmas extra-special with unique Cornish flavours from the county’s master distillers and brewers.


    ·  Gift the greatest remedy for chillier winter evenings with a collection of indulgent gifts from The Cove Bathing. Hunker down with luxury bath salts, organic bath milks, fragrance oils and nourishing soaps, all handcrafted and containing dreamy calming essential oils that are going to help you feel super relaxed.


    · Naturally Cornish have created the ultimate sugar-coated paradise for the sweet tooth on your list. Treat them (or yourself) to decadent gigantic buttons and a selection of handmade milk chocolate bars from Josh’s Chocolate.


    · If there’s one thing that can ease the sadness of shorter and colder days, it’s the thought of sinking our toes into a luxuriously soft pair of slippers. Crafted in British sheepskin, these winter essentials by Celtic & Co will have you welcoming dark nights

     

     

    Wild Cornish Soap
    WILD CORNISH SOAP

    Who doesn’t love new soap as a gift? Homemade soaps are one of the most versatile gifts for men, woman, and children and Wild Cornish Soap create some outstanding offerings with a plethora of delectable smells and scents. They explain a little more about their ethos on their website, saying: “At Wild Cornish Soap, we use ethically sourced ingredients and traditional cold process method to create beautifully nourishing soaps for your hands.”

     Rebecca from Wild Cornish Soap went on to tell us why soap makes a great gift all year round: “We can all do our part to reduce our plastic consumption and one of the easiest ways is to have a bar of soap! Handmade cold process soap is fantastic for your skin - containing natural oils and butters to moisturise and nourish. Soap is plastic-free, and one bar can last numerous washes which is good for Planet Earth too. We suggest our Winter Warmer soap which contains organic cocoa butter and a warming essential oil blend of Orange, Nutmeg and Cinnamon.”

     

    Cornish gifts are special for so many reasons, one of them being that they are lovingly made by Cornish locals, and this is something Rebecca also explained to us a little more: “Cornwall is a place that holds many special memories for people - whether it is a Cornish cream tea, a walk on the beach or a weeklong holiday in the sun. Having a piece of Cornwall in a gift - whether it is quirky painting, rustic ceramic, or handmade soap - connects the recipient back to Cornwall and their wonderful memories.”

     Great gifts from Wild Cornish Soap:

    ·   Cornish Woodland soap

    ·    Cornish Coast soap

    ·    Luxury Trio of Soaps

    ·    Box of Four Mini Soaps

     

     If you know someone who loves Cornwall, who has been on a spa break in Cornwall and falling in love with their surroundings or someone who is planning to visit very soon, then these unique and thoughtful Cornish gift ideas have hopefully given you some inspiration for upcoming birthdays and Christmas presents.

  2. Having only been able to open sporadically in 2020, Porthleven Harbour Market in Cornwall is gearing up to start up once again, on Tuesday 13th April 2021, restrictions permitting of course.  With its beautiful position, situated outside on the harbour front, it’s definitely well worth a visit if you’re planning a trip to South West Cornwall.  You’ll be spoilt for choice with the array of Cornish gifts on offer.

     

    Sunny Porthleven Harbour, Cornwall

     

    This artisan, open-air, crafts and gifts market has been running for many years, with market traders selling their wares from various places in the harbour area. 

    • First, there’s those in gazebos on the green along the water’s edge – wonderful little gazebos filled with lots of Cornish gifts and goodies galore. 
    • The colourful beach huts to the side of the harbour are home to more Cornish traders, with their lovely gifts and treasures spilling outside and displayed on the open doors.
    • You’re sure to also notice the purpose built wooden pergolas, just past the beach huts.  Here, there are 7 spaces for yet more market traders – step off the road and peruse their gift offerings, displayed beautifully for all to see.

     

    Gazebos on Porthleven Harbour

     

    Whether you’re looking to buy a few Cornish gifts to take home with you for loved ones, looking for a few souvenirs from Cornwall, or just wanting to treat yourselves, you’ll be amazed by both the quality and the assortment of what’s on offer at the market in Porthleven.  The friendly traders will be tempting you with:

    • Jewellery – silver, gold, pearls, seaglass plus more
    • Clothes – a wonderful assortment
    • Photography – beautiful local shots
    • Artwork – paintings for every taste
    • Plants – succulents galore
    • Pebble Pictures – divine
    • Gifts and souvenirs – a wide range of Cornish gifts and homewares

     

    Beach Huts in Porthleven

     

    Will Cornish Magpie be at Porthleven Harbour Market this year?

    The answer is yes – most definitely. 

    With many events this year already cancelled in Cornwall and all around the country, and with many others yet to confirm if they’ll go ahead, the only place you’ll definitely find Cornish Magpie is in Porthleven, trading at the harbour market, in one of the purpose built wooden pergolas.  Of course, other events may go ahead but for now, this beautiful local market is where I’ll be trading with all my range of gifts, homewares and crafts.  Please do come and say hi, it would be lovely to see you if you’re on a holiday or short break to Cornwall.  I’ll have so much on display for you; it’s going to be exciting to get back into the swing of things.

    • Teatowels
    • Chopping Boards
    • Mugs
    • Coasters
    • Magnets
    • Washbags
    • Soaps
    • Purses
    • Dog Bandanas
    • Plus lots lots more

     

    Cornish Magpie Coasters in Porthleven Harbour

     

    What days is the market open?

    Porthleven Harbour Market has updated opening days for this year.  They’re as follows:

    • April, May and June – Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays
    • July, August and until 12th September – open 7 days a week
    • 13th September til end of October – Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

    The market hours are 10am til 5pm

     

    Silver Jewellery in Porthleven

     

    What if I can’t make it to Porthleven Harbour Market?

    If you’d love to have a look at my range of gifts for Cornwall lovers, you’ll always find me online.  Granted, it’s not the same as buying directly or browsing everything at a Cornish market – but as with all my fellow traders, we love our online customers equally.  Each and every sale, whether at a market or an online order, puts a smile on our face, so please support local whenever you can.

    Throughout the pandemic, a lot of time has been spent improving my online offering.  The website has had a huge overhaul, hopefully more informative and user friendly for everyone. 

    The Cornish gifts and homewares ranges are always evolving and lockdown has seen several new designs completed – please do let me know if you like them, it’s always lovely to get feedback from you.  The Nautical range has been extended and there are changes in the pipeline for both designs and products too…watch this space. 

     

    Breaking News

    Did you know that you can now find a range of my Cornish gifts at the beautiful Pisky Cove, on the harbour front in Porthleven?  So even when I’m not there…I am.

    They’re stocking most of my range and if there’s anything they don’t have…they can get it the same day in most cases.

    This wonderful Cornish shop is full of crafty loveliness:

    • The Crafty Crab – beautiful hand knitted and handmade items
    • Cornish Magpie – coastal inspired gifts and homewares
    • Hamilton Glass Art – fused glass
    • Stuart Wheeler Photography – local scenes and ocean shots
    • Wool, wool and more wool – you’ll be spoilt for choice
    • Women’s clothing – gorgeous dresses, dungarees, skirts and more

     

    Pisky Cove Porthleven, Cornwall

     

    New for 2021

    A new indoor market in Porthleven is planned for this year in the former metal works building in the shipyard.  It’s hoped this will be ready to open in time for the summer here in Cornwall.  So even when the weather is inclement, you’ll still be able to browse locally made Cornish gifts and produce undercover. 

    Keep an eye out on the market website for more information and updates.

    www.porthlevenharbourmarket.com

     

    In Summary

    So, uncertain as things presently are, I’ll say and tentative ‘See you very soon’ from here in Cornwall.  Time will tell if the market can go ahead and stay open throughout the season.  But I’m hopeful that the future is bright and that we can all travel soon, enjoy our breaks and make happy memories.

    Stay safe everyone, be kind to yourselves – and to one another.

     

    Cornish Magpie in Porthleven, Cornwall

     

    Cornish Magpie sell an array of beautiful gifts, via market stalls in Porthleven (and elsewhere – check ‘Events’ on the website for details), via their website and also Etsy.  If you love the seaside and all things coastal, have a little look, browse at your leisure, I hope you find something you love.  And if you're on Facebook, follow Cornish Magpie here, or on Instagram here.