The 2018 season is well underway and the grass is growing green and lush (and very fast).  It was no doubt helped by the exceedingly wet Easter we experienced and while the grass might have enjoyed it, it was very frustrating for us and our campers, most of whom were sadly rained off.  Luckily many have been able to re-plan their breaks and we are now anticipating a busy bank holiday weekend, with all our electric hook ups being booked up some way in advance (sorry folks).
 
It is heartening to see the local events calendar bursting to life again and visitors to Porlock this weekend can take advantage of guided walks that visit Porlock Marsh and Bossington.  The hedgerows are coming to life with abundant greenery and a rainbow of pretty wild flowers and it won’t be long until we’re picnicking at the beach again, hooray! 
 
On the weekend of 12 and 13 May, visitors can enjoy the annual Porlock Open Gardens event, where keepers of gardens large and small throw open their gates and welcome visitors for a nosey, many also offer refreshments, plant sales, raffles and other attractions.  Anyone interested in the majestic Exmoor ponies can visit Allerford Community Hall on Saturday 12 May (12-4pm) to meet some equines from the Exmoor Pony Centre while scoffing a cream tea and enjoying pony-themed activities (entry free, no need to book). 
 
On both Sunday 6 May and Saturday 12 May there is also a point-to-point (amateur horse racing) at Holnicote, which is only a couple of miles from Sparkhayes, towards Minehead on the A39. 
 
So there’s plenty to do, in addition to exploring the beautiful local landscape and sampling our local artisan’s wares.  We’d love to welcome you to Sparkhayes, for a relaxed and friendly break and/or refreshing rejuvenation, come and visit us soon!

​Hello, at the beginning of summer (ahem), from Sparkhayes!  Where to begin?!  Well firstly it was great to see Pauline Belloni on her South West Coast Path mission and she’s sent a link to her photo blog, which mentions Sparkhayes here.  She’s on her way to the Lizard next… good luck Pauline!
 
For those of us remaining in Porlock, there’s lots going on.  This coming weekend sees local gardeners flinging open their gates to welcome the curious in aid of the RNLI and Porlock Visitor’s Centre.  It’s a wonderful opportunity to see the usually private but impressive gardens of local people and find out more; they’ve all been very busy with their preparations.  The price of £6 per person allows entry to all of the gardens that are taking part and tickets last the whole weekend.  Parking facilities are provided by your friends at Sparkhayes!
 
Also this weekend, the residents of nearby Allerford are going back through time.  Allerford Museum is taking part in the Exmoor-wide Victorian Week and on Friday 24 June they open their Victorian school from 10.30am – 4pm.  Visitors can also visit historical but thriving Allerford Forge who have an illustrious client list, including the Queen! 
 
And from 30 June to 3 July, we’ll all be relaxing at Porlock Weir for the annual Weirfest celebrations.  A really lovely time to visit this pretty harbour, Weirfest incorporates a variety of excellent live music with 50 real ales and ciders (though if you’re not a fan don’t panic, there’s plenty of other choice as well as food!).  It’s all very relaxed and friendly and a great place to pass a few happy hours.  Include a visit to a walk itinerary or catch the free shuttle bus from Porlock.
 
I personally won’t be drinking, the arrival of my second child is imminent so things are likely to go a little quiet shortly – if you’ve emailed and the response is taking a little while I apologise!  The best way to get hold of us will be to give Phil a ring on 07721 045123, but non-urgent emails will be replied to as soon as possible (and probably at some un-Godly hour of the morning..!). 
 
Here’s to a happy, relaxing and hopefully dry summer campers! 

So what is occurring as the season slides into Autumn?  The schools are back but there’s still plenty to entertain visitors to Porlock.  The ‘Discover Porlock’ guided walks continue to be available (for now!).  They start from the Visitor Centre at 10.30am, are free of charge (donations to Care Moor) and last approximately two hours.  Join one to discover the history and formation of the Porlock Bay landscape and how this has affected the village and surrounding area.  The final three dates for this season are: 11th, 21st and 25th September.

We’ve also got the Smuggler’s Run to look forward to this weekend, at 12 noon on Saturday 12 September.  Teams of smugglers will be trying to evade and outwit the excisemen while carrying barrels across Porlock Marsh.  The teams must race from the Top Ship at Porlock to the Bottom Ship at Porlock Weir, fancy dress being optional.  There are free drinks for all participants and, for the winners, five litre kegs of Tribute Ale (thanks to St Austell Brewery) and Smugglers Gold tea (thanks to Miles Tea & Coffee).   Lots of fun for spectators and the rather crazy participants; it’s not too late to get your team entry in. *** STOP PRESS***!  Smugglers Run sadly cancelled due to low number of entries - uh! :( 

On 19 and 20 September, from 2-6pm, Porlock opens its gardens to the public and lets us all in for a good snoop, the gardeners have been working hard and every year the reports are fantastic.  Tickets are available from the Visitor Centre or in the village for a cost of £5, which is donated to St Margaret’s Hospice.  No dogs please.

Finally on Sunday 20 September, we will be out to witness the Porlock Hill Climb cycle race.  This is a closed route time trial, covering 4.2 miles of the scenic Porlock Toll Road with an average gradient of 5%, which takes some grit and determination! The main race is followed by a two-mile junior’s version and then the road is opened to families and anyone wishing to enjoy the use of the road while it’s closed to normal traffic; the Porlock Pedal earns all participants a medal, which is kindly sponsored by Miles Tea and Coffee. More information is available at www.porlockhillclimb.co.uk.  Let’s hope for some pleasant weather and we’ll hope to see you there!