Explore Cornwall
Stretched across 400 miles of stunning coastline, Cornwall will give you something new to do every day of your holiday. You could choose to stick to the North Coast, head to the rugged South Coast or head in land and explore the wild moorlands. We’ve put together a few of our favourite things to explore in Cornwall for anyone on any budget.
The Camel Trail spans between Wadebridge and Padstow. A popular haunt for cyclists, the 5 ½ mile cycle ride will take you along the disused railway line following the course of the Camel Estuary. Many choose to pop on a cycling hat and start their cycle at Wadebridge, whereby there’s cycle hire, and use Padstow as a lunch break. With a choice of famous pasty and fish and chip shops we can’t think of a better place to spend lunch before cycling back to Wadebridge.
Padstow has much to offer but beautiful estuary and coastal views along with some fantastic boutique shops and award winning pasties! Whether staying in Padstow or just visiting for the day, why not take the opportunity to take to the sea and aboard the passenger ferry crossing over to Rock. Whilst there explore a beautiful view of the Camel Estuary stretching along the coast path that sweeps around to Daymer Bay and then onto Polzeath. Rock has a couple of shops and a pub so you can get a food and retail fix. Bookings are advised for the pub.
It wouldn’t be a trip to Cornwall without a visit to the infamous Eden Project, dubbed the 8th wonder of the world, these tropical biomes have created a global garden, right here in Cornwall. Recognised by the British Travel Awards as the Best UK Leisure Attraction, the Eden Project will give you an insight into mankind’s reliance on plants and why they’re so integral to our ecosystem.
Newquay
Known for it’s surfing community Newquay is located on Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast and is regarded as a popular holiday destination. It’s sandy beaches make for a popular way to spend a day, with many opting to bodyboard or try their hand at surfing. Newquay’s laid back town will offer you the chance to explore, dine and shop.
Home to the Tate Modern Gallery, St Ives has a history linked to the art deco movement. St Ives is known for it’s sandy beaches like Porthmeor, and has a reputation for being a good surfing spot. With a popular town, steeped in Cornish history, you’ll find everything from cafés to clothes shops. If you’re looking to get on the water for a bit take a seal trip around Seal Island and get to know these inquisitive creatures.
If you’re looking to don your walking boots and escape for miles, Bodmin Moor at nearly 200 squared kilometres will leave you with more than enough ground to cover. Home to moorland ponies, sheep and cows you won’t be alone on your adventures. Steeped in history the moors are home to some of the original Cornish tin mines which you can still have a look around today.
Cornwall’s only City, Truro is a close to metropolitan as you’ll get in Cornwall. Bursting with character and heritage, this city boasts both independent stores as well as high street chains. Located along the riverside, meandering through this city is anything but stressful, top the day off nicely by indulging in a tasty Cornish lunch, maybe even treat yourself to a cream team, jam first of course.
Fowey
Once the home to Daphne du Maurier, Fowey is a Cornish town renowned for its nautical heritage. With a quaint town to explore, Fowey borders the river Fowey. In May the Fowey regatta takes over the town and is a fun-filled week of sailing races, crabbing and children’s entertainment. Nestled on the south coast, Fowey is often regarded as one of the prettiest towns in Cornwall.
Also nestled on the south coast, Looe has a heritage linked to the fishing industry. Once renowned for its sardines, the harbour is still used as a working fishing port to this day. Split into two East and West Looe, this seaside town boasts a sandy beach and bustling town. Popular for its boat trips, many opt to take a glass bottom boat out of the harbour and around the neighbouring Looe Island, hopeful to sea Cornish marine life.
Located near Mevagissy, the Lost Gardens of Heligan are considered to be among the most popular gardens in the UK. Typical of the 19th century Gardenesque style, the gardens boast character and style. Spread across 200 acres, explore the history, mystery and romance of The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
This unique open air theatre is perched on the cliffs just above the Atlantic Ocean at Porthcurno. One of the most magical places to sit and watch live theatre a trip to The Minack should definatley be on your to-do list. Whether you enjoy Great Expectations or want to hear from the Fishermans Friends, this is a stunning setting to enjoy the arts.
Just to the eastern side of Mounts Bay, on the Lizard, Kynance Cove is a true gem. One of the most photographed and painted locations in Cornwall, this beauty spot will leave you feeling like you’ve visited the med. We’re talking golden sands and turquoise waters. A popular filming location for the Cornish drama Poldark, this spot is definitely worth a visit.
Part of the National Trust’s collection Lanhydrock House brings you a late victorian manor with garden and wooded estate. Venture into the house and learn more about the long cornish history associated with the area. A true cornish countryside location, walking around the gardens, alongside the river and through the woods is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the Cornish towns.