Your Devon and Cornwall Wedding news and ideas from around the area

Parkdean Resorts with parks in Devon and Cornwall reveal couple getaways have surged this year

More couples are opting for short getaways in the UK this year, new booking data reveals. Over the past year, lodge holiday provider Parkdean Resorts, with parks in Devon and Cornwall has seen a notable rise in demand for romantic breaks closer to home. By analysing sales data, it's been revealed that bookings by couples have surged by 14% year-on-year. This highlights an increasing trend of shorter, more affordable romantic staycations. With a growing appetite for intimate breaks in the UK, the travel experts have revealed the specific locations surging in demand and how to make couple breaks extra romantic.

The 3 Golden Rules for Choosing the Right Wedding Jewellery

With Married at First Sight dominating our screens from Sunday to Thursday, it's hard not to be inspired by the stunning bridal looks, sparkling jewellery, and dreamy hairstyles on display. Whether you're planning your own big day or simply daydreaming about it, finding the right accessories is key to creating a look that feels uniquely yours. From statement earrings to delicate hairpieces, the perfect finishing touches can elevate your ensemble from beautiful to unforgettable. Experts at Abbott Lyon have revealed how to choose wedding accessories that balance timeless elegance with your personal style.

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS: NEWQUAY ZOO STRIKES GOLD ON DEBUT

Newquay Zoo has been awarded a Gold medal in this year's Britain in Bloom competition, a standout achievement for its first-ever entry into the prestigious national horticultural event. The award recognises the zoo's vibrant planting schemes, which enhance the visitor experience while supporting the welfare of its animals. Judges praised the Cornwall-based attraction for its beautifully designed landscapes, enhancing the natural feel of animal enclosures and maintaining seasonal interest throughout the year. The result reflects the skill and dedication of the zoo's team, who continue to deliver high-quality experiences for visitors while managing the site with care and efficiency.

A luxurious hamper with an added personal touch

For anyone looking for an outstanding wedding gift, a luxurious hamper with an added personal touch is an ideal option. Top Hampers was born from the belief that gifts should mark an occasion in a way that is meaningful and memorable, to enable you to give gifts that are thoughtful and personalised, showing just how much you care. They have used their expertise to create a range of ready-to-go wedding hampers. These are perfect if you are short on time ahead of the wedding, as you can rely on Top Hampers for quality and the personal touch, while knowing the hampers can be delivered the next working day.

One in three Brits skip weddings over sky-high guest costs

Despite being one of the biggest factors in long-term relationship success, money is still a taboo topic for most couples. New research from HSBC UK reveals that three in four Brits (75%) consider financial compatibility essential. The nationwide survey of 2,000 adults explored how modern couples navigate finances - from dating apps to wedding vows - and the pressures, expectations and unspoken rules that come with spending in relationships. The impact of this silence is clear, with 58% of couples having argued about money.

Newquay Lantern Parade and Trenance Cottages Light Switch on to Return

Following the success of the 2024 Trees and Tales event held in Trenance Valley, the Newquay Lantern Parade and Trenance Cottages Lights Switch On event is set to return on Friday 21st November from 5.30pm in Trenance Valley. Newquay BID, Blystra Arts and Trenance Cottages invite the community to wrap up warm and come out to celebrate the start of the festive season in the most magical way possible with a community lantern parade and light switch on event, celebrating the start of the festive season in Newquay with a light parade in a beautiful wooded, lakeside location. Last year the parade moved to Trenance Valley and saw record numbers attend to participate in and watch the event which ended with the countdown to the first Trenance Cottages Light Switch On event.

Chef Adam Handling MBE’s AHC Food Festival was attended by thousands

Chef Adam Handling MBE's first-ever AHC Food Festival was a huge success with around 2,000 attendees joining the festivities across the weekend of October 4th and 5th at The Tartan Fox, Adam's luxury countryside pub near Newquay. Created as a celebration of community and the exceptional talent within the Adam Handling Collection (AHC), the two-day event saw festival-goers enjoying the very best in food, drink and hospitality. "We're going to do it again next year," says Adam "and make it even bigger and better. It was an incredible day. It was great to bring our team from across the collection together and to showcase what we do best."

Changing your name after the wedding

When the confetti settles and you're left with a shiny new name, the natural panic starts to set in "what documents do I need to change?" An aspect many don't consider until they have to, is the seemingly endless list of documents that now need updating. Below is a list of all the official bits you'll need to look at, now that you're embarking on newlywed bliss.

Tom Thumb cocktail bar in Newquay awarded prestigious Pinnacle Guide Star

Newquay's much-loved cocktail bar Tom Thumb has been officially recognised by the Pinnacle Guide, earning a coveted One Star Award for excellence — a significant achievement that places the venue among the UK's leading bars. The Pinnacle Guide, often described as the Michelin Guide of the drinks world, celebrates outstanding bars for their quality, consistency, sustainability, and service. Achieving a star involves a rigorous process, including mystery reviews and a detailed assessment of each venue's ethos and operational excellence. Owner Jamie, said: "We're absolutely thrilled to receive a Pinnacle Guide Star. It's a reflection of our team's dedication to quality, creativity, and the customer experience. From day one, our ethos has centred on exceptional service, sustainability, and serving drinks we're truly proud of."

FINDING YOUR SEASON

Whilst a summer wedding is traditionally considered the most popular time to tie the knot, there are many reasons why couples choose other seasons for their celebrations. For many, choosing a date comes down to a mix of budget, venue availability, work schedules and personal preferences. Whether you adore autumn's vibrant colours, the blossoms of early spring, or heartwarming winter celebrations, each season has unique charms to inspire your wedding plans. From selecting sun-kissed summer cakes and bespoke gifts, to arranging autumnal barn dances or finding local caterers with seasonal produce; this guide helps you host a wedding for all the seasons

Halloween Hen Party Ideas for 2025

Planning a hen party with a Halloween twist is the perfect way to add a cheeky, spooky edge to your celebrations. If your group is ready to ditch the usual tea and cake and dive into something a little more thrilling, there are plenty of unforgettable options to choose from. Leading hen party experts, The Foxy Hen, share their top tips for a spooktacular Halloween hen party, reminding us that the key is to mix fun, scares and creativity for a day or night that everyone will love..

Ashridge Great Barn in North Tawton hosting October Open Evening

Devon's Ashridge Great Barn, located in its own private valley in beautiful North Tawton, is hosting an Open Evening on the 18th of October between 4-8 pm. Couples searching for their dream wedding venue will be able to explore the beautiful barn and stunning Victorian gardens, home to the Magic Circle and the Secret Glade offering magical outdoor ceremony settings. A garden tour will set off at 4:30 pm; 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm and couples attending the Open Evening will be offered a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival, exclusive on-the-day discounts plus the opportunity to bid in the silent auction in aid of The Wedding wishing Well charity.

WoodWick® Introduces the Precious Metals Collection

Renowned home fragrance brand WoodWick® Candles, introduces the Precious Metals Collection, a new, luxury collection of crafted candles inspired by elemental beauty found deep within the Earth. Showcasing a trending metallic finish on the brand's signature jars, these rich, multi-layered scents offer multi-sensory experience perfect for the modern home. Each candle features WoodWick's patented Pluswick® technology, which creates a distinctive crackling sound reminiscent of a cozy fireside. Each candle in the Precious Metals Collection embodies the essence of gold, silver, bronze and other coveted materials.

Financial wedding gift ideas for the couple who has everything

After the excitement of a wedding invite, and planning the outfits, thoughts might turn to big-day gifting; what do you buy the couple who lives together and has everything? Money might feel impersonal, but Susan Hope, retirement expert at Scottish Widows advises on financial gifts for newlyweds. "Couples often look forward to receiving an abundance of beautiful gifts from friends, family and loved ones as part of their wedding day celebrations," says Susan. "But there are equally, and in some ways even more valuable, financial gifts that can be given and discussed between soon-to-be-wed couples too. Having clear and open conversations about money ahead of tying the knot is really important. It'll ensure you're both on the same financial page and can work towards shared goals once you are married."

Devon's Sandford Orchards' Red Zero Named Best No-Alcohol Cider In The World

Devon-based Sandford Orchards' Red Zero has recently won gold and been named Best Non-Alcoholic Cider at the World Cider Awards, less than a year after it was launched. This latest accolade follows gold awards from Taste of the West and The Farm Shop and Deli Awards, with undoubtedly more to come. Barny Butterfield, founder of Sandford Orchards comments: "We took our time creating Red Zero because we like to do things properly at Sandford Orchards. It was not the first non-alcoholic cider to market but we like to think that it is one of the best and it seems that the experts agree."

Treloyhan Manor Celebrates St Andrew’s Night with Historic House of Hazelwood Whisky Flight

A distinguished whisky experience is now open for booking at the luxurious Treloyhan Manor in St Ives, Cornwall presented in partnership with House of Hazelwood, for an exclusive one-night event on Sunday the 30th of November 2025. The experience features a whisky flight showcasing over 250 years of heritage, offering guests the rare opportunity to taste some of the oldest and most exclusive Scotch whiskies available in the UK. With 27 years in the industry, whisky expert Phil Keene from House of Hazelwood, will lead guests through an exciting exploration of whisky heritage, one delicious dram at a time. The impressive collection has been carefully built over seven decades by the renowned Gordon family.

Stay in a historic Devonshire house this autumn

Whether you're looking for wedding guest accommodation, or wanting to enjoy a staycation in Devon with friends this autumn, Premier Cottages offers the finest collection of 4- and 5-star historic properties across the UK with fantastic choices in Devon, perfect for every gathering, season and occasion. The Manor House in Cadhay is a Grade I listed Tudor house located near Ottery St Mary offering grand group accommodation for up to 22 guests. From its vast Georgian dining hall to four-poster chambers, it exudes atmosphere. Visitors can explore the medieval stew ponds, fountain and Bothy, or venture into the property's unique roof chamber, dating all the way back to 1430.

Bumper crops of pumpkins at National Trust gardens in Devon and Cornwall in time for Halloween

The National Trust has confirmed a bumper harvest at many of its gardens, including in Devon and Cornwall, with pumpkins promised for Halloween. Fruit and vegetable crops are ripening and ready for harvest weeks earlier than usual. Despite the UK experiencing a hot summer with drought conditions recorded in many places, gardeners are reporting an unusually abundant year for orchard fruit and pumpkins, thought to be the result of a combination of weather factors including last year's wet conditions, the warm and dry spring and plenty of sun. Experts at the National Trust have also advised how to care for pumpkins and apples on the lead-up to Halloween.

THE TOP HEN-DO LOCATIONS

Organising a memorable hen-party for any bride-to-be, is no easy task. There's so much to think about from setting a budget, choosing an accessible destination for everyone, curating activities, managing group logistics and so much more. Luckily, new research by immersive cocktail bar brand Alcotraz, has compiled the best and worst hen-do locations across the UK. The new league table analyses 25 major UK cities and ranks them on key party planning criteria such as safety, affordability, and hen-activity and nightlife options, and the results may surprise you.

Thrills and traditions sparkle at Exeter Racecourse this season

As the crisp autumn air sweeps across Haldon Hill in Devon, a palpable buzz is building at Exeter Racecourse. Devon's premier jumps track is gearing up for a season that promises to be nothing short of exhilarating, mixing centuries of racing tradition with a fresh, vibrant energy. "It's a fantastic day out, whether you're a seasoned racing fan or just looking for something truly special to do in Devon," says general manager Jack Parkinson. The jumps season bursts into life with an unmissable Season Opener on Thursday, October 9th. This highly anticipated return marks the official start of the new season at Exeter, promising a thrilling seven-race card.