The Road to Talland Bay
Setting off from Plymouth in the MINI Cooper Convertible, we took the scenic route towards one of Cornwall’s most picturesque coastal destinations — Talland Bay Hotel in Looe. With the roof down and the sea air rolling in, the journey itself was half the experience.
Because if you’re going to tackle one of Britain’s most iconic debates, you might as well enjoy the ride getting there.
Enter the GIANT Scone
To help us settle the debate once and for all, the team at Talland Bay Hotel didn’t just serve a cream tea…
They created a 40cm GIANT scone.
Yes, really.
A centrepiece large enough to demand attention — and more importantly, large enough to test both Devon and Cornish methods properly.
Freshly baked, served with generous helpings of jam and clotted cream, and enjoyed with sweeping sea views, it was cream tea… just on a much bigger scale.
The Debate: Devon vs Cornwall
At its core, a traditional cream tea is simple: warm scones, clotted cream, jam, and a good cup of tea.
But it’s the order that sparks the debate:
- Devon method: cream first, then jam
- Cornwall method: jam first, then cream
Each side fiercely defends its way — with Devon treating cream like butter, and Cornwall showcasing it as the crowning glory on top.
And while historians still argue over where cream tea truly began, one thing is certain: the rivalry is very much alive.
So… Did We Settle It?
With a scone this size, we had ample opportunity to test both approaches.
On one side: the classic Devon spread.
On the other: the proud Cornish layering.
And the verdict?
Let’s just say… the debate might not be over just yet.
Because after one bite (or several), it became clear that whether you start with jam or cream, the real winner is the experience itself — great food, incredible surroundings, and a journey worth taking.
More Than Just a Drive
This wasn’t just about scones.
It was about getting behind the wheel, exploring the coastline, and embracing everything the South West has to offer — from local traditions to unforgettable destinations.
And with the MINI Cooper Convertible, every mile felt like part of the story.
Your Turn to Decide
Now it’s over to you.
Are you Team Devon or Team Cornwall?
Jam first or cream first?
Or do you think the real answer lies somewhere in the middle… preferably with a giant scone and a sea view?
Plan your own West Country adventure with Ocean MINI — and maybe settle the debate for yourself.
