ROOM WITH A VIEW AT THE GREENBANK HOTEL IN FALMOUTH

A massive intricately carved wooden seat at the hotel entrance conjures an image of two Victorian ladies whispering secretly behind fluttering fans as they await their carriage and a ride to afternoon tea with a titled friend.

The Greenbank, with large windows that open to a spectacular view of a flotilla of yachts at anchor, certainly has the prime position on the sea wall overlooking one of the largest natural harbours in the world.

In our room with a view, we take a momentary break before setting out to explore. Within minutes we are confronted at the window by a curious seagull. Strutting up and down, squawking as they do, and finally hopping onto the window sill and knocking over a half empty cup of tea in its efforts to snatch a cookie, we are formally adopted for the next three days. No matter what time we return, there he is, and if we don't open the window, he taps urgently on the glass with his beak. I must admit to enjoying and photographing all his facial expressions as he watches us from his window perch.

Photos copyright Anne Gordon

Posted on Sunday, 21^st July, 2013