Starting point: Barnstaple.

We leave the town of Barnstaple behind us as we travel West, towards Cornwall.

Along the way, just outside the Cornish border, we shall pass close to the seaside town of Bude, the regions surfing capital. Nice views of the coastline can be seen from the road, stretching for many miles.

You will see en-route the newest items to have an impact on the local landscape - wind farms.

Our first port of call will be Presingoll Barns which is a highly recommended gift outlet site. You will find arts & craft's, pottery, gifts as well as a refreshment area. Here you can take a break and spend some time looking around, as well as buy Cornish gifts to take home for friends and family.

On leaving, we travel a few miles to the historic Wheal Coats mine, in the heart of the North Coast Mining area of Cornwall. This mine was taken over by the National Trust a few years ago and made safe for all to see and explore. There are wonderful views in both directions along the coast which you will have plenty of time to enjoy.

After passing through the delightful village of St Agnes with its many old miners cottages, we travel along the valley towards Black Water village. This will allow you to see the area and if you wish to stop and take a few pictures, just let us know. We then proceed towards the far west area of Cornwall, passing close to St Michel's Mount, with Penzance not too far along the coast to the West. This route offers marvelous views overlooking the bay.

The delightful and romantic village of Mousehole will be the last stop of the day. Within the village there are many little steets leading off from the harbour. Each one has something to offer, and a history to tell relating to the fishing past of the area. There are a number of cottages with drying cellars and yards behind them to hang fishing nets. Remember to have a look at some of the interesting roof lines. Over the Christmas period the village puts on a spectacular display of lights with the whole village, hillside and harbour, covered by thousands of lights.

(Executive Travel Services have made special arrangements for the Christmas event. Please ask for details if you are interested)