hotel

Blogs ~ stories, news, views & more

no results
Read More image
14/01/2025

St. Mellion Estate, the Cure for Every Business Meeting Woe

Why St. Mellion Estate is the answer for your next ‘Away Day’…Let’s be honest, corporate meetings, team building and networking events often feel like an endurance test. You’ve barely survived the morning commute and wrestled with parking, only to sit through hours of PowerPoint presentations in a room that could double as a beige storage cupboard. But what if there was a place where business meetings weren’t such a grind? Welcome to St. Mellion Estate, Cornwall’s answer to all your corporate-event woes.Yes, St. Mellion is a golf resort – but it’s also the antidote to every corporate misery you’ve ever experienced. With stunning views, delicious food, and facilities that make the whole ‘corporate’ experience feel like a mini-holiday, it’s time to rethink how you do meetings. Here’s how St. Mellion tackles the most annoying parts of business events and turns them into something, dare we say, enjoyable!Problem #1: The Commuter GauntletThe Typical Experience: You’re headed to a business meeting, and your sat-nav is leading you through a series of rural postcodes. You’re dodging roadworks, roundabouts, and at one point, you’re pretty sure you’ve entered a parallel universe where every turn takes you further from your destination.The St. Mellion Solution: Forget the GPS drama. St. Mellion Estate is just off the A38, on the Devon-Cornwall border. It’s perfectly situated for easy access, but once you’re there, you feel miles away from the office. Surrounded by rolling countryside and perfectly manicured golf courses, you’ll almost forget why you’re there in the first place. No need for hiking poles – St. Mellion’s a breeze to find.Problem #2: Parking – The Eternal StruggleThe Typical Experience: After a long, testing drive, you arrive at the venue only to discover that the parking situation is like something out of a dystopian novel. If you do manage to find a space, the parking fee rivals the GDP of a small nation.The St. Mellion Solution: At St. Mellion, parking is free. Let me repeat that: free. Not only that, there’s quite simply loads of it. You won’t need to perform a sacrificial ritual to secure a spot, nor will you need to remortgage your house to cover parking charges. Park, saunter inside, and arrive at your meeting with your dignity and bank balance intact.Problem #3: Conference Room / Storage Room BeigeThe Typical Experience: The venue? A nondescript box with all the excitement of a 1980s hospital corridor. Beige walls, flickering fluorescent lights, and a general sense that hope left the room about 20 years ago. No windows, no character – just a soul-sapping space where ideas go to die.The St. Mellion Solution: How about a conference and meeting room with actual views? St. Mellion’s conference facilities offer floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping vistas of the Cornish countryside. Instead of staring at beige walls, you can gaze out at rolling countryside and golf courses. It’s like conducting business in a postcard, rather than a motorway service station. Your LinkedIn post really can start with ‘Wish you were here!’Problem #4: The Sad BuffetThe Typical Experience: It’s lunchtime, and you’re greeted with the usual suspects: curling sandwiches, dry pastries, cold chips and coffee that could have been brewed by Old Tom Morris (golf legend, yes – but a terrible barista).The St. Mellion Solution: At St. Mellion, you won’t be subject to sad sandwiches or questionable coffee. They bring actual food into your business meeting room, prepared by actual chefs. Whether you break for lunch or need a working meal, the food here is a cut above the usual bland buffets. And if you can step away? You’ve got options galore: the Brasserie for a sophisticated meal, a fine-dining restaurant, a private balcony or terrace, or the relaxed vibe of the golf bar. Either way, your lunch will be worth looking forward to.Problem #5: Post-Meeting PurgatoryThe Typical Experience: The meeting ends, and you’re left with… nothing. No activities, no socialising – just an awkward shuffle to your car, or worse, back to your hotel room for an evening of dull TV or a night in with your laptop.The St. Mellion Solution: At St. Mellion, the end of the meeting is where the fun begins. Feeling competitive? Head out for a round on the championship golf course. Need to unwind? Hit the gym, take a dip, book a spa treatment or simply stroll through the estate grounds. There’s no post-meeting limbo here – just a variety of ways to enjoy yourself, whether you’re team-bonding or unwinding solo.Problem #6: The Team-Building CringeThe Typical Experience: Team-building activities. Cue awkward icebreakers, the dreaded trust fall, and everyone silently praying it’ll end soon.The St. Mellion Solution: Team building doesn’t have to be cringey. How about a bit of light-hearted competition on the putting green, driving range or golf course? St. Mellion’s outdoor spaces are perfect for casual games (duck herding being a new favourite), friendly rivalries, and bonding that doesn’t make you want to crawl under the table. Plus, a little fresh air never hurt anyone.Problem #7: The Meeting That Never EndsThe Typical Experience: What started as a morning session has spiralled into an all-day epic. By the end, you’re questioning your life choices – and whether you’ll ever make it home.The St. Mellion Solution: Even if your event is planned to stretch over multiple days, St. Mellion makes it feel like a luxury getaway rather than a work obligation. With four-star accommodation on-site, you’ll sleep in comfort and wake up to those glorious countryside views. The holidays cottages hidden within the 450 acre estate also provide a welcome retreat at the end of a long day and a little something different from the normal residential delegate package! And when you’re not in meetings, there’s plenty to enjoy, from the spa to the golf course. You’ll leave with more than just action points—you’ll leave feeling refreshed and maybe even a bit personally inspired.Meetings Really Don’t Have to Be MiserableIf the thought of your next corporate event fills you with dread, consider St. Mellion Estate the solution. Whether you’re looking for business meeting venues, conference venues, or a top-notch conference centre with accommodation, St. Mellion ticks all the boxes. It’s a business meeting room with a view, a conference venue with style, and a place where parking doesn’t cost a small fortune. With excellent conference and meeting rooms, stunning surroundings, and top-tier dining options, it’s time to rethink how you do business.So, what’s it going to be? The same dreary meeting room – or room with a view on a 450 acre country estate?

Read More image
09/05/2024

And breathe…wellbeing, wellness & wonderful walks!

As I sit here about to write about ‘wellbeing’ and ‘wellness’ I’m thinking I should probably explain the difference between the two…’wellbeing’ can be regarded as the environmental factors that influence our health and wellness, whereas wellness is an emotional and spiritual journey (thank you Google), and well wonderful walks is self-explanatory!Beautifully situated in 450 acres of stunning Cornish countryside, St. Mellion Estate offers the perfect retreat to take you on a complete wellness journey with your wellbeing also firmly taken care of. The iconic resort is best known for its golf course, the Nicklaus Signature Course and has now been officially recognised as one of the best golf resorts in the world (Golf World Top 100 ~ 2023). Golf aside, the Estate is fast becoming a firm favourite for Wellness Breaks and as the perfect location to tuck yourselves away from the real world. St. Mellion’s best kept secret is the Cottage Collection, a collection of self-catering holiday cottages hidden deep within the Estate. Ranging from one bedroom to four bedroom properties all offering private outside space for alfresco dining and a chance to completely immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Estate.With guest experience at the forefront of everything we do, we are delighted to offer all residents complimentary use of the extensive Health Club at the main resort. Here is where your wellness journey and wellbeing can find the biggest rewards. The Health Club offers two large swimming pools, enormous spa pool, sauna, steam room, large fitness suite, resistance room and dedicated floor exercise area, all of which are available at your leisure. The Wellness Spa offers a whole range of Elemis Spa treatments* to complete your experience. Golf is also available to you should you wish to enjoy the two courses*.St. Mellion Estate is ideally situated in the picturesque Tamar Valley, the border of Devon and Cornwall, making it the perfect base to venture out into both counties for the most breathtaking walks. Make your way through the valley over to Dartmoor National Park (this can be seen on the horizon from the resort) or head further South and walk the stunning Cornish coastal paths. I promise you you will experience a wellness journey you will never forget!I really hope you feel your journey has already started by reading this article…and I hope it leads you to our doorstep.Regan Bush ~ Communications Manager, St. Mellion Estate*additional charges apply for all Spa treatments and green fees. Green fees are offered at a discounted residential rate.

Read More image
17/01/2024

Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Autumn Breaks in the UK

Whether you see yourself snuggling up to a roaring fire at a charming coaching inn or strolling through vibrant hues of the autumn countryside, it’s the perfect season to plan a getaway with your furry companion. So, stay tuned as we showcase key travel tips to prepare your pooch, and the best dog-friendly autumn breaks guaranteed to get tails wagging.Should I take my dog on holiday with me?The prospect of taking your four-legged friend on holiday can be very exciting, especially for new dog owners. Leaving your pup at home to miss out on adventure can be daunting, especially if they haven’t spent much time alone before.However, it is important to consider whether taking your dog away with you would cause more stress than hiring a dog sitter to take care of them in their own home. Before planning a trip, think about things like:Is your dog happy and content travelling in the car or on a train for an extended period?How well does your dog cope with large groups of people, for example, in a popular seaside town?How comfortable is your pup is around other dogs?Are they old enough to travel? Young puppies may need too much care to travel or be left with a dog minder.With that being said, if your dog is a happy traveller and you’re not worried about any of the above, staycations are a great (and less costly) way to travel whilst enjoying all the wonderful dog-friendly activities, walks and locations the UK has to offer. If you’re unsure, consult an experienced dog trainer who can help you assess how well they can travel and socialise. Alternatively, they can help you organise some training to make the trip easier. Where’s the best place to take my dog on holiday in the UK?1. CornwallCornwall is an absolute cornucopia of things to do for both you and your dog. From the dog-friendly Beaches to the stunning Gardens, endless museums and castles, quaint seaside towns and the Cornish coastal path. You’ll be spoilt for choice for doggy days out, but the key will be where to stay. Many local campsites are dog-friendly if they’re on a lead, and there are sure to be dog-friendly hotels as well, but for a bit of luxury and comfort that’s within easy distance of the coast, why not consider the St Mellion Cottage Collection? We have several dog-friendly cottages on site with private parking, french doors, stunning views and easy access to the golf course! Plus, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to the Health Club. 2. NorfolkNelson’s County has some of the most beautiful walks in the country. Starting with the stunning North Norfolk Coastal Path running from Hunstanton on the west to Hopton-on-Sea on the east. It’s 83 miles of beaches, cliff tops, nature reserves and classic seaside towns – ideal for four-legged adventurers. There’s also Norwich City, which is a great day out for all. Or there’s the Broads, where you can rent a dog-friendly boat for the day. Not to mention the great heritage North Norfolk Railway on which dogs are welcome aboard.For places to stay, why not consider a classified Dark Sky Discovery site to do some star-gazing or a dog-friendly cottage, maybe even a boat on the broads for a few nights on the water?3. WalesWales is known for its keen nature conservation, friendly locals and stunning beaches, so it sounds pretty good for a pooch who loves to make friends and explore nature, doesn’t it?There are miles of sandy beaches and coastal walks all around, including on the Gower and in Pembrokeshire. Then you add in sites like Powis and Penrhyn Castle, where there are acres of land, forest and grass to explore. The Cambrian Way is an excellent road trip for car-loving pooches. However, the crowning glory has to be Snowdonia, especially with the 13th-century Myth surrounding Prince Llywelyn the Great and his beloved dog Gelert. If you go, Beddgelert is a must-visit on your trip. 4. Yorkshire Yorkshire is a great option if you’re looking for a mix of cities, towns and stunning nature walks. With the great city of York at the centre, there’s plenty for you and your dog to see and do. Why not stroll down the shambles, drop in one of the many dog-friendly restaurants and finish up with a classic Ghost Walk? Alternatively, head to the coast to the stunning Robin Hood’s Bay beach or go up the coast to Whitby to see what inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Top tips for packing for your pupJust like humans, dogs like their creature comforts so here is a handy list to help you remember the essentials:Collars, leads, harnesses and tags.Food and water bowls – portable and otherwise.Food and their tasty training treats to reinforce their good behaviour. Engaging toys to prevent boredomComfort blankets and their beds.Hygiene items like poo bags, paw creams, medication, etc.Towels and cooling mats.How to plan a dog-friendly itinerary Once you’ve found a dog-friendly place to stay and have a list of things you want to do, it’s important to plan the holiday so no one gets overtired, hurt or bored.So, make sure you mix up your active days enough that your four-legged friend isn’t walking so much more than usual in a shorter timeframe. Throw in some calmer boat trips, beach days and road trips to keep their legs feeling good. Similarly, don’t leave them alone and do non-dog-friendly activities too much – it’s a holiday for everyone after all, and no one likes waiting by the car! Finally, try and get into a routine or stay in your regular one while away – dogs like to know when they’re eating, coming, going and more. So, feed them at the same time as at home, try to walk them at similar times (if they want to walk, that is) and keep their everyday schedule as close to normal as possible.Our final top tips for a happy travel companionDogs are creatures of habit, this means feeding them the same food at the same time as you would at home, but also making sure you consider their sleeping patterns. Dogs need a lot of rest and sleep every day, so make sure they have the time to do that in the car or at your accommodation. If you aren’t allowed to leave them unattended anywhere, remember to give them time to rest while out and about. If they’re not too large, and you’re strong enough, you could always carry them to give them a respite.Bringing your dog on holiday can be great fun, but there are considerably more plans and things to remember, so put on your organising hat, prepare your itinerary and your dog efficiently, and have a great dog-friendly holiday.

Read More image
16/10/2023

Enjoy a Cornwall Autumn Half Term Escape

As the vibrant summer crowds disperse and Cornwall’s beaches begin to empty out, the Autumnal charm of Cornwall emerges in October especially around half term. While the world knows Cornwall for its iconic summer escapes with soft sandy shores, rolling moorland and quaint fishing villages, the Autumn months reveal a different, equally captivating side of this coastal paradise. Here, we present a thought selection of Autumn activities to relish in Cornwall during October and beyond: Our Top Picks for October in Cornwall: Explore Scarecrows at Cotehele – Cotehele: Just a stone’s throw away from St. Mellion Estate, is the National Trust riverside hideaway of Cotehele. If you’re feeling brave, this October half-term and are looking for a spooky activity, head to Cotehele and embark on a quest to discover spooky scarecrows hidden in the garden. These scarecrows each hold a piece of local folklore, and your challenge is to spot them and read their stories to solve the mystery. Begin your adventure by picking up a free trial sheet from Visitor Reception, then wander through the enchanting gardens at Cotehele, keeping your eyes peeled for these eerie figures. Will you have what it takes to crack the riddle and unveil the mystery? Embrace the Coastline at Whitsand Bay – Torpoint: Whitsand Bay boasts over three miles of stunning golden sand stretching from Rame Head to Portwrinkle, making it one of Cornwall’s true hidden gems, the perfect place to visit during your Cornwall autumn break to St Mellion Estate. Accessible via steep paths and steps winding through lush autumnal vegetation, these beaches are a haven of tranquillity, especially if you embark on a holiday to Cornwall in October. During low tide, the expansive sands are perfect for cosy strolls. Explore the shoreline’s rock pools teeming with marine life, and offshore lies the popular dive site of HMS Scylla, an ex-naval frigate sunk in 2004 to create an artificial reef. Horror Maze at Cornish Maize Maze – Pillaton: Prepare for a spine-tingling adventure at the Halloween Maze of Horrors on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 6pm, with timed ticket entry. Brace yourself, as this event is not for the faint-hearted! Families are welcome, but parental discretion is advised. The maze promises a chilling experience, featuring fire jugglers, performers, scare actors, and more. This hair-raising journey through the maize includes scare scenes with live actors, and it will take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Be prepared for what might be the scariest 15 minutes of your life! You’ll also find actors performing daring fire stunts, and a BBQ will be available alongside the regular cafe menu. And the best bit is this is less than 10 minutes from St Mellion’s door! Enjoy a Good Stomp Across Moorland at the Cheesewring – Bodmin Moor: Amidst the dramatic landscapes of Bodmin Moor lies one of Cornwall’s most iconic sites, the Cheesewring. The name of this granite tor is derived from a traditional gadget used for squeezing liquid out of cheese, although it’s also associated with cider making, where apple pulp is known as “cheese.” Take a walk this October half term to visit the seven rock slabs, the Cheesewring stands tall at thirty-two feet, with the smallest and lightest rocks at the base and the heaviest. On a misty day, the Cheesewring structure appears to hover above the moor and on a sunny day if you climb to the top, the vistas over Cornwall and Devon are simply spectacular. Don’t forget St. Mellion offers dog friendly holiday cottages too so you can bring along your four legged friends to explore the moor! Enjoy a Round of Golf or a Wellness Spa Treat at St. Mellion Estate: For golf enthusiasts, St Mellion is renowned as one of the UK’s premier golf venues, having hosted European Tour events and earning the title of ‘Best Golf Course’ in the West of England and Ranked 2nd Best 4* Golf Resort UK and Ireland. The Nicklaus Signature Course at St. Mellion is a masterpiece personally designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. This sequence of holes not only offers a delightful playing experience but also provides breathtaking visual panoramas. St Mellion also boasts a “hidden gem,” the Kernow Course, which opened in 2008 and quickly became a favourite among golfers. Complementing the Nicklaus Course, the Kernow Course features wide fairways, expansive greens, and a fantastic blend of holes, earning praise as “an outstanding course with a great blend of holes” from Today’s Golfer. And the most important question this October…’trick or treat?’ The answer being ‘treat’ of course! The Wellness Spa at St. Mellion offers a delicious menu of Elemis treats for you to choose from.   Indoor Activities to Enjoy During your Cornwall Autumn Break: A Dive into Marine Wonder at the National Marine Aquarium – Plymouth: The National Aquarium offers an immersive experience into the captivating world of marine life. Wonder through underwater ecosystems brimming with fascinating creatures. Witness the elegance of sea turtles, the allure of shimmering fish, and, of course the magnificent sharks as they glide through crystal-clear waters, recreated to mimic their natural habitats. As you navigate the aquarium’s exhibits, you can learn about ongoing efforts to safeguard delicate ecosystems and the crucial role each individual plays in preserving the biodiversity of our seas. The National Aquarium provides refuge from the autumn chill, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages! Everyman Cinema, Royal William Yard, Plymouth: When temperatures drop and evenings grow longer, there’s no better way to escape than snuggling up at the Cinema. Everyman Cinema is nestled within the historic Royal William Yard in Plymouth, this cinema presents a diverse selection of mainstream and art-house films throughout the week. When spending the evening at Royal William Yard, why not indulge in a sumptuous meal at one of the nearby restaurants, such as Wagamama, Bistrot Pierre, Pho or Hub.   With options for warm and chilly autumnal days, it’s clear that Cornwall in October offers a unique allure. The shifting autumn colours provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor and indoor activities, ensuring that your visit to Cornwall during this season is nothing short of splendid. So, why wait? Plan your autumn escape to St. Mellion Estate and savour the magic of autumn in this captivating county. And, for seasonal fun, discover the array of Halloween activities awaiting you in Cornwall during this spooky season.  

Read More image
24/08/2023

5 great reasons to get married at a Golf Resort…

1. Breathtaking Wedding Album Backdrop ~ without question golf courses offer the most stunning scenery to frame your day; woodland, lakeside, bridges, endless countryside. Golf buggy’s can also be available to take you out to the very best spots! Daniella Pengelly Photography Summit Imagery Younger Photography Dan Ward Photography Paul Keppel Photography Rebecca Roundhill Photography 2. Licensed for Wedding Ceremonies ~ many golf clubs are licensed allowing you to say your vows & celebrate with friends & family all in one venue. Contact Cornwall Registration Services / 0300 1234 181 for all you need to know about booking your Civil Ceremony. 3. All-Inclusive Packages ~ most golf clubs offer all-inclusive packages as they have all the package elements already on site as standard. The food, the bar, the furniture, the supplier partnerships… making it easy to budget and stress free. Accommodation for your wedding night and guests is also a bonus! Wedding Packages at St. Mellion Estate Classic Wedding Package Signature Wedding Package Winter Wedding Package DIY / Dry Hire Wedding Package 4. Plenty of Free Parking ~ generally golf clubs have large private car parks allowing stress free provision of free parking for all your guests. 5. Dedicated Wedding Team ~ the support and service provided will be second to none as hospitality is what they do! At St. Mellion we are lucky enough to also offer a dedicated Wedding Coordinator, Kate Townsley (otherwise known as the Fairy Godmother!). The whole team are here to deliver the wedding of your dreams. If you are looking for the perfect wedding venue please give Kate a call on 01579 352062 or email her on kate.townsley@st-mellion.co.uk Visit our website to find out more about getting married at St. Mellion Estate 🌟 Get married at St. Mellion this Autumn for just £4750!*🌟 *terms and conditions apply 📸 @paul_keppel_photography 📸 @summitimagery 📸 @danwardphotography 📸 @becca_roundhill_photography #gallery-1 { margin: auto; } #gallery-1 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; } #gallery-1 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-1 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

Read More image
01/08/2023

The Guardian ~ 40 Best Spa Breaks in the UK

“Set across 450 acres of tranquil Cornish countryside, the St Mellion Estate is ideal for spa lovers and non-spa-loving partners, with two golf courses, tennis courts and three swimming pools, alongside the Elemis spa…” Read More…

Read More image
01/08/2023

British Challenge presented by Modest! Golf Management: Tournament Guide

“The European Challenge Tour returns to St. Mellion Estate this week for the British Challenge presented by Modest! Golf Management. Here’s what you need to know before the players tee it up in round one on Thursday.Read More…

Subscribe to our newsletter Sign up today