Cornwall's reputation as a premier tourist destination has received a significant boost thanks to celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. Netflix recently launched the series Being Gordon Ramsay, which follows the chef as he opens his latest venture—a cluster of restaurants at 22 Bishopsgate in London. While the series primarily focuses on Ramsay's culinary expertise, it also provides glimpses into his family life and his beloved Cornish getaways.
Rock: The 'Saint-Tropez of Cornwall'
Ramsay gave viewers a tour of his Cornwall bolthole in the picturesque village of Rock, describing it as his escape from London's fast pace. The village, nestled on the Camel Estuary in north Cornwall, sits directly opposite the ever-popular holiday destination of Padstow. Long adored by affluent second-home owners and sailing enthusiasts, Rock has firmly established itself as one of the county's most strikingly beautiful locations. It is frequently compared to the 'Saint-Tropez of Cornwall', and it comes as little surprise that Ramsay has chosen this coastal treasure as his go-to holiday retreat for years, even spending a whopping £9.65 million on a neighbouring property.
The village boasts numerous beautiful holiday cottages, with prices starting at £412 for Trevanger Farm Cottage, for example. There is also the upmarket Upper Deck, which sleeps six and offers four-night stays at around £1,469.
Surge in Popularity
Elliot Walker, editor of local travel guide Cool Cornwall, said: 'We always knew Rock was pretty special. But its appearance in a top TV show has dramatically boosted its fame and appeal. It's wonderful to see more people discovering what those of us in Cornwall have quietly cherished for years.'
'Anyone who visits Rock will understand why Gordon Ramsay has chosen this as his out-of-London retreat. The estuary views, dune-backed sandy beaches, lovely coastal walks, watersports such as sailing and wakeboarding, as well as several great restaurants and pubs, make this a truly special place to spend time,' Elliot added.
Things to See and Do
To help prospective visitors get the most out of their trip to Rock's stunning coastline, Cool Cornwall has put together a handy local guide to the area, highlighting the finest attractions and activities on offer. From exploring Daymer Bay and rockpooling at Greenaway Beach, to scaling Brea Hill or dining at celebrity chef and Ramsay's friend Paul Ainsworth's The Mariners restaurant, there is no shortage of things to keep visitors busy during a weekend break or week-long escape.
Elliot described Rock as a 'wonderfully laid-back, naturally beautiful destination with real soul', and expressed his hope that visitors will come to cherish it for far more than its recent celebrity connections. 'Rock has been quietly doing its own thing for years, and it will carry on doing so long after the cameras have moved on,' he added. 'If the documentary is what brings people here for the first time, brilliant. But we'd love them to stay a little longer, explore a little further, and leave with a genuine feel for what makes this corner of Cornwall so special.'
Cornwall's Enduring Appeal
Drawing in millions of visitors every year, Cornwall has long been a treasured destination for Britons seeking a seaside escape, boasting golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. The county has equally captured the imagination of film and television producers, with hit productions including Poldark and James Bond making full use of its breathtaking coastline as a backdrop. 'Cornwall is no stranger to appearances on screen,' Elliot said. 'Each time there is an influx of visitors. Rock is simply the latest example of that.'
