Croust - mining and dining!
“Croust”
In Cornish, croust (or crowst) generally refers to a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack, often enjoyed with bread and cheese. It can also sometimes refer to a lunchtime snack. The term is closely associated with the Cornish mining tradition, where miners would take a "croust" break for food and rest.
As it is the summer holidays, we thought we would do a little exploring whilst sampling the croust on offer.
First up was Geevor Tin Mine, near Pendeen (TR19 7EW). Admittedly bit of a drive from Okel Tor but the museum does not disappoint, and you can easily spend a day here.
There are various activities to take part in and exhibits to see both inside and out, including some stunning coastal walks and scenery.
More importantly the Count House Café offers fantastic food including their renowned pasties and ploughman salads and we had a very agreeable croust break.
Eat and Drink - Geevor Tin Mine
For more information on opening times and prices check out the link below. Note Geevor is shut on Saturdays.
Opening Times and Prices - Geevor Tin Mine
Next up was King Edward Mine Museum, near Camborne (TR14 9H). We were really impressed with our visit and learnt a lot about mines and mining from the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers.
The museum is almost entirely undercover so would be a good outing for a damp Cornish day. The museum houses several working machines which demonstrate various mining techniques.
Discover Cornish tin mining at former working mine
The Croust Hut Café is very popular, and you may want to consider booking ahead. The menu is freshly prepared, often from local Cornish produce, with an Asian twist. We had a “fish finger” sandwich and a tofu poke bowl which were delicious but unfortunately did not leave any room for the stunning array of cakes!
The Croust Hut | Cornwall | Cafe
For more information click on the link below. We strongly suggest you check opening times as they are only open Mon, Tues, Wed and Sat in the summer.
Opening Times for Cornish Tin Mining Museum
Closer to home, about 10 minutes from Okel Tor, we can recommend a trip to Kit Hill Country Park, an ideal place for a wide range of activities including walking, bird watching, kite flying and picnics. The highest point between Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor, this wild, rugged granite hilltop is famous for its fine views and fascinating history as well as its flora and fauna. With 400 acres (152 hectares), Kit Hill is the most dominant landscape feature in East Cornwall.
Kit Hill Country Park - Cornwall Council
Kit Hill - Tamar Valley National Landscape Tamar Valley National Landscape
Once you have stretched your legs, we can suggest two croust options – Louis Tea Room which is open every day for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.
Alternatively, the Engine House at Compton Park offers good food and a lovely view. It is also open 7 days a week, and booking is recommended.
Compton Park Engine House - Camping & Restaurant, Callington, Cornwall
What better combination than mines and munching – happy croust!
