Snow in the UK is a rarity. In Cornwall, even rarer. Our little south western corner of the country, combined with its salty sea air is less than ideal for snow. Whenever we’re forecast a blanketing of the white stuff, it’s met with scepticism. However, when it does arrive and with plenty of warning, us Brit’s can’t help but freak out!
Cornwall has been treated to a blanketing of snow twice already, with more due over the Easter weekend. Normally snow in the UK flurries overnight and melts the following lunchtime. This year though, we’ve been treated to the wonder of snow days!
Up until last month, Woody, like many Cornish Dogs had never seen the snow. At first he didn’t know what to make of it but soon his spaniel instincts set in. To say he was enthusiastic is an understatement. If it were up to him we’d be out in the white stuff 24/7! Luckily for Woody I too am a snow enthusiast. So between us we made the most of our two days off last month.
Braving the icy roads, we enjoyed exploring the local area. The first day of blizzards was our biggest adventure, walking 5 or so miles from Penryn to Longdowns and back. With the roads being treacherous, walking seemed like the best option. Indeed it was, as on our epic walk (most of it uphill of course, this is Cornwall after all!) we stumbled across six vehicles stranded on the icy roads. We helped as many as we could up the hill before reaching our destination.
The rest of our time was spent along the Penryn Nature Trail, which had been transformed into Narnia. Icicles clung to the sides of the stream and snow dusted the great viaduct. Despite the bitter cold and not liking swimming regardless, Woody, for some unbeknownst reason, thought it was a great idea to take a dip. What was he thinking?! He also started digging, something he never does…
I love the peace and quiet of snow days, with no cars on the road it was great to see the community come alive. Woody mostly walked off lead. His recall skills are a work in progress but when weighed up against falling on icy pavements all day, I took the chance. Surprisingly he was incredibly well behaved, though the gravy bones may have something to do with that!
Adopting or fostering another spaniel has been playing on my mind a lot recently. Adding to our fur family is something I’d really love to do but I’m conscious that now probably isn’t the right time. Not only are we living in a house share but my boyfriend isn’t keen at the moment. He says we can’t adopt another spaniel, so Woody and I decided to take matters into our own hands!
We’d like to introduce you to Pip, our snow dog. She came to stay with us for a few days, though for some strange reason, refused to come inside. In fact, she didn’t really move at all, which is odd for a spaniel! She spent most of her time sat outside the garages that overlook our house, chilling in the snow. I guess she’s an observer, which is cool.
After a day or two, we watched Pip deteriorate. First her head became loose, then it fell of completely. Soon she was all but a puddle in front of the garages. Nevertheless Woody and I had a great time building Pip and definitely made the most of the snow while it lasted!
How did you make the most of the Cornish snow? Did your dogs enjoy it? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments!
To keep up to date with our adventures, be sure to follow us on Instagram!
Some lovely photos of your snow day! xx
Thank you Steph! I hope Sev and Lily enjoyed the snow too!