Nori St Agnes Blog

St Agnes

St Agnes is a hidden gem on the North Cornwall coast approximately half way between the better known St Ives to the west and Padstow to the east.  I have lived in St Agnes for nearly 8 years, a 'blowin' (newcomer), not that I have been made to feel anything but warmly welcomed in a community which boasts generations of St Agnes born and bred families.

I have been lucky enough to travel the world with my work and, coming from a military family, lived in many locations across the UK, but nothing has ever come close to the unique community and stunning location that is St Agnes. I am absolutely sure there are other beautiful and wonderful locations with thriving communities elsewhere but to have everything in one village, I would argue, is a rarity.  Not only is St Agnes beautiful, with a sheltered beach, bright blue sea and spectacular coastal views, it is a unique living community. I read an article many years ago, that suggested St Agnes's success was due to the fact that very few of the properties have direct sea views and therefore has avoided the loss of the majority of properties to second home owners.  Cornwall welcomes all visitors; they are, of course, vital for the county's economy. The problem comes where the ratio of holiday accommodation is out of proportion with that of residential homes. We are fortunate in St Agnes in that our ratio is within balance with the majority of property being the homes of local residents. What results is a warm and welcoming community that invests heavily into the village and welcomes it's visitors. The geography of St Agnes also helps to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The centre, at the top of the village, Churchtown, is the hub for all community events and is blessed with a handful of local shops that caters for all needs. In fact, St Agnes is one of those remarkable places where you can shop, brouse, have coffee and not need a car for any of it. The organic fruit and veg shop, Churchtown Stores, is across the cobbles from Trunk Deli selling wonderful cheeses, wines, deli and home products. If you want something special, this is certainly the place to visit. Next door is the butchers; - Rob, has provided the village with locally produced meat for the last 40 years. If looking for unique gifts, Churchtown Arts is just across the road. The Green Forge supplies refillable and organic produce along with all sorts of goodies and specialist ingredients to try. The Sorting Office is a small coffee shop serving wonderful coffee, pastries and homemade bagels. It is a hub in itself where locals and visitors alike chat, catch up and enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. This is not a solitary experience unless of course you want it to be. If it's fish you are after, then a short trip to Kernow Catch in Chapel Porth is a must for freshly caught local Scallops, Hake, Sea Bass, Lobster and much more. When we lived 'Up Country', we would need to drive many miles to a 'Destination Location' to have the opportunity to have anything like this sort of experience - we are incredibly lucky.

But there is so much more to St Agnes with the additional mini hubs of Peterville, Wheal Kitty and Trevaunance Cove, each with their own unique atmosphere. Peterville offers a buzzing vibe with The Taphouse, The Peterville Inn and the surf shop. Wheal Kitty is the understated location, at the top of the cliffs, that is the home to Finisterre clothing, the sustainable outdoor and adventure clothing brand founded by Tom Kay with the help of the Princes Trust.