Holidays Near Home: Cornwall with Martha Ward

We’ve been missing getting away and we know you all have too. We’ve started looking to places closer to home for getaway inspiration and asked Martha Ward, Fashion Director and Condé Nast Traveller UK & CN Traveler US Freelance Stylist & Brand Consultant, about one of her favourite UK destinations, Cornwall. Find out what she loves so much about it, some top tips of where to go when you do visit and what Monsoon pieces are her suitcase must-haves!

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What do you love about Cornwall? What makes it special for you?

I love the drama and eternity of the coastline when you’re walking along it. I love the Cornish pasty pit stops along the way. I love the icy sea swims. I love the local farm shops. I love the hearty spirit. And I love that the sun almost always shines in spite of the forecast saying it’s absolutely not going to.

Can you tell us your top tips for preparing to holiday in the UK?

Pack for ALL eventualities; it’s 4 seasons in one day wherever you are in the UK. It’s t-shirts one minute and a fleece the next, so always pack layers. Get your adventurous hat on; the best way to see a place is to endlessly explore. Packed lunches and comfy shoes are vital day to day accessories for a staycation.

What are your favourite pieces from the Monsoon collection that would be great to take on your trip?

Monsoon do a vast selection of ‘day’ dresses and this is always a good place to start as you can layer them up with cardigans and windbreakers (often necessary) or strip back to bare arms. The ease & use of a good day dress is second to none. And the blouses are good too – lots of good collars and pretty embroidery.

What are your favourite places to visit in Cornwall that you would recommend when taking a trip?

The Pig at Harlyn Bay; even if just for a pitstop drink or lunch, it’s a sensational new spot. John Betjeman’s church – St Enodoc’s – in Trebetherick; magical, and in the most extraordinary location. Mawgan Porth for the ultimate English seaside day (and always an ice cream van). Padstow Farm Shop for all your foody needs. The Little Shop at Fowey Hall Hotel for local ceramics, pottery and arts and crafty finds. And any shop for a pasty!

What are you most looking forward to most when we can start to travel again?

Experiencing different cultures. I crave the different sights and smells and sounds and tastes of other countries. Exploring places abroad. Unearthing treasures. Rummaging in markets. Feeling foreign heat, and the sun on my face. The dream will soon come true!

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