Coombe Mill: Where friendships form

A holiday for sharing

When families come to Coombe Mill they come for more than just a Self Catering Holiday in Cornwall. Yes we are technically listed on a few directories as this, but to think that is all we offer is to miss the point of Coombe Mill.  Our specialism is young families and we aim to create an environment where parents feel relaxed, in the knowledge their children can safely enjoy all Coombe has to offer from walks and play areas to farm learning and confidence with the animals. We have found increasingly that the social spin off of the morning tractor rides helps not only the children but is also a platform for friendships and sharing for parents too. Every week as I join the tractor rides armed with my camera, I eves drop and join in on sharing of information between families. Those who have stayed before offer advice new visitors on places to visit, while general parenting exchanges, based children of similar ages, are informative, sociable and essentially ice breakers which can lead to some real friendships. 

Farewell BBQ

Last week was one of those weeks where all the guests had similar aged preschool toddlers. The children played happily together, striking up friendships readily as "like Mamma like daughter" shows, while the adults too found common ground for a chat. The families just gelled and towards the end of the week, one family suggested a BBQ get together on the front lawn to which several families joined in. We were all invited too which I was really touched by, especially as my children are now so much older. Sadly it was one of our manic after school club days where I fly from one activity to another with our six children, however between ballet and cubs I did grab my camera, follow my nose and discover a wonderful September scene:

Picnic rugs and tables were full, ample food and drink for all and the BBQ in full swing as families shared their week's events. 

The children soon had their fill and dashed off to play on Farmer Nick's newly replaced trampoline, all within view of their parents. Communal parenting naturally formed with one parent on trampoline duty for several youngsters; team work and friendships in making from the young upwards. 

These are the moments when I am really proud of all that Farmer Nick and I offer in a holiday at Coombe Mill.