best places to visit in cornwall

25 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall (+ map & tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 4, 2023

Are you planning a trip to Cornwall? Not sure what must-visit places and attractions to include in your itinerary? In this article discover 25 of the very best places to visit in Cornwall including the best things to do plus top sights and attractions.

The beautiful county of Cornwall located in England’s South West offers visitors an epic coastline dotted with secluded coves, sandy beaches and pretty fishing villages, stunning landscapes, heritage and history and a wealth of foodie experiences.

If you are planning your visit to Cornwall actually choosing where to go from the many wonderful destinations can be tricky. We love Cornwall and have explored the region many times including for 7 days in the summer of 2022 when we toured around the county – check out our Cornish road trip itinerary .

In this article you will discover the very best of Cornwall – the best places to visit in Cornwall and the best things to do in Cornwall – so you can experience everything this beautiful region of England has to offer.

You will find practical tips to help plan your trip (including how much time we recommend in each place) plus a map showing all the best Cornwall attractions included in this article.

Looking for the best place to stay in Cornwall and accommodation options to suit your travel needs? We recommend reading our Cornwall destination guide which details the best places to stay plus accommodation options for all travel styles and budgets. Click here to discover the best places to stay in Cornwall .

See the best of Cornwall with our preferred tour partner Meneage Tours

Whether you are arriving in Cornwall by train or would like to take a break from driving so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery without negotiating those country lanes a private tour with Meneage Tours is the perfect option.

⭐️ Click here for more information and experience the extraordinary magic of Cornwall with Meneage Tours

2. Eden Project

3. tintagel castle, 4. lost gardens of heligan, 5. porthcurno and the minack theatre, 6. st michael’s mount, 7. port isaac, 8. trebah gardens.

• 9. Land's End

10. The Lizard and Kynance Cove

11. polperro, 13. mevagissey, 14. padstow, 15. falmouth, 17. newquay, 18. mousehole, 19. lanhydrock, 20. helston, 22. penzance, 23. heartlands, 24. isles of scilly, 25. the south west coast path, map of the best places to visit in cornwall, faqs – planning a visit to cornwall, 25 best towns, beaches, landmarks & attractions to visit in cornwall.

Located on the north coast of Cornwall, the seaside town and port of St Ives is one of the most popular destinations in the county. Once a sleepy fishing village, it has grown into a charming and bustling town known for its long golden beaches and excellent winter surfing conditions.

The semi-sheltered Porthmeor Beach is an excellent spot for surfing, with surf schools and rentals. Other great beaches in St Ives include the picturesque Blue Flag Porthminster Beach, the small Porthgwidden Beach, and the relatively secluded Bamaluz Beach.

Take a year-round boat trip to Seal Island to watch grey seals frolicking in the waves and to spot other wildlife in the scenic setting. You’ll find the most creatures in August.

Stroll around the pretty harbour and step back in time along the quaint cobblestone streets of the Down-a-long. Admire the collections of modern art in the Tate Gallery, a striking round building next to the sea. Admission costs £10.50 for adults and those under 18s are free.

How much time do I need in St Ives? It is possible to see the best of St Ives in one day but we recommend booking accommodation and spending at least a couple of days in the town.

When is the best time of year to visit St Ives? Winter is the best time for surfing, while summer is ideal for sunbathing on the beaches.

Read more – 10 best things to do in St Ives

Lying three miles outside of the large market town of St Austell, the Eden Project is one of Cornwall’s premier tourist attractions.

Covering an enormous area of around the size of 30 football pitches, the Eden Project sits on the site of a former clay pit. It features gigantic domes filled with a massive selection of plant life from three climatic zones from around the world.

Inspiring awe and fascination, the attraction shows the vital reliance of humankind on plants. It is also a major centre for sustainability and education.

Immerse yourself in the world’s biggest indoor rainforest, complete with cascading falls and exotic jungle. Experience the flora of the Mediterranean in another indoor dome, and discover native plant species in the outdoor botanical garden.

Head into the treetops on the canopy walkway and admire plenty of artwork.  

Open all year round, displays vary according to the season. It is, however, magical at all times. Adult tickets cost £29.50 off-peak, £32.50 standard, and £35 peak. Children under 16 are £10 at all times and children under four are free.

How much time do you need at the Eden Project? With so much to do and see we recommend planning to spend an entire day at the Eden Project.

Built half on the jagged cliffs of the mainland and half in a rugged promontory, you’ll find the atmospheric remains of Tintagel Castle on Cornwall’s north coast. Tintagel Castle bridge connects the two dramatic areas.

The ruins date back to the 1200s, part of a once-mighty stronghold constructed on the orders of Richard, 1st Earl of Cornwall. The site’s history stretches back even further, though, with evidence of earlier settlements discovered during excavations.

Steeped in legends and lore, the marvellous castle has strong associations with King Arthur; this is said to be the place where the mythological King Arthur of Camelot was conceived.

Let your imagination run wild as you discover the remains of medieval buildings, cross the stepping stones in the old walled garden, and explore the once-magnificent Great Hall.

Go down onto the rocky beach at low tide to peer inside the 100-metre-long Merlin’s Cave, a sea cavern that runs all the way through Tintagel Island underneath the castle.

Beautiful views stretch in all directions and the clifftops are a haven for interesting wildlife. Admission costs £17.30 for adults and £10.40 for children. Members of English Heritage can visit for free.

How much time do you need at Tintagel? Half a day is usually enough time to enjoy the castle.  

Located slightly inland from the coast of southeast Cornwall and close to the villages of Pentewan and Mevagissey, The Lost Gardens of Heligan is one of the best Cornwall attractions.

Wrapped up in mystery, the gardens were created between the mid-1700s and early 1900s. After World War One, the gardens were abandoned and neglected, left untended for Mother Nature to take control. Discovered again in the 1990s, the beautiful gardens have now been restored to their former glory.

Covering around 200 acres, the serene gardens are home to many species of plants and lots of attractive features like lakes, slopes, historic paintings, and ornaments. Don’t miss seeing the Mud Maid and Giant’s Head, two large figures made from stones and plants.

Stroll through the magical Pleasure Grounds, home to colourful flowers throughout the themed gardens. See a wide assortment of produce growing in the Productive Gardens, where you can also pay your respects to the estate’s Victorian gardeners in The Thunderbox Room.

Follow the raised boardwalk through the enticing jungle, explore the enchanting woodlands, and wander through the picturesque Lost Valley.

Kids are sure to love meeting farm animals like pigs, sheep, and horses, and the area is home to a rich diversity of wildlife.    

The Lost Gardens of Heligan is open all year round and admission costs £17.50 for adults, £8.50 for children aged five to 17, and free for kids under five.

How much time do I need to visit? Most people spend an entire day exploring the gardens.

Porthcurno is a small village on the south coast of West Cornwall. The area is famous for having been the endpoint of submarine telegraph cables that once reached all the way from Great Britain to India.

You can learn more at PK Porthcurno: The Museum of Global Communications (admission is £9 for adults and £5.50 for children).

The area is also known for the paradisiacal Porthcurno Beach, where towering cliffs surround soft white sands lapped by aquamarine waters.

The stunning Minack Theatre is another top attraction along the Cornish coastline. Built in the 1920s, the open-air theatre sits high on the cliff overlooking the shimmering sea.

Step inside to admire the ornate carvings, splendid views, and beautiful botanical garden, or book tickets (prices vary) to watch a performance in a truly unique setting.

Shows are held from spring to autumn, but the theatre is open to simply view throughout the year. Admission costs £5 for adults and £2.50 for kids.

Also near Porthcurno is a place called Porthgwarra which you may recognise as the fictional Nampara Cove from the recent remakes of the TV show Poldark. (If you are a fan of the show you may enjoy this Poldark tour of Western Cornwall which includes a stop at Porthgwarra)

How much time do you need? We recommend allowing half a day to explore Porthcurno.      

St Michael’s Mount is a stunning sight in southwest Cornwall’s Mount Bay. Located on a tidal island, a causeway connects St Michael’s Mount with the mainland town of Marazion.

You can easily walk the half-mile to the island at low tide, and regular boats (£2.50 adults / £1.50 children) shuttle passengers across the water at other times.

The fairytale-like castle could be the twin of Le Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, France. Cornwall’s magical island castle was built in the 12th century. Bought in the 1700s by Colonel John St Aubyn, it is still the residence of the St Aubyn family today.

Steeped in legends and with a long history, the island was once a destination for religious pilgrims. Inside the spectacular castle you’ll find many historic artifacts, including rare and unusual items.

The glorious coastal gardens feature striking tumbling terraces, a charming walled garden, and numerous types of plants. You can also wander around the island’s small residential village and harbour.

Although you can visit the island for free, you cannot visit most places of interest without a ticket. Combination tickets (for the castle and gardens) cost £24 for adults and £13 for children. Cheaper tickets are available for either the castle or gardens on their own. Admission is free for National Trust members.

How much time do you need? Plan to spend around four hours at St Michael’s Mount.     

Good to know – The attraction is closed during the winter months. The castle is closed every Saturday, and the gardens are closed on different days of the week. It is important to plan your visit in advance to avoid disappointment.

The small, idyllic fishing village of Port Isaac lies along the coast of north Cornwall. Narrow streets wind through the village, lined with traditional Cornish homes and quaint whitewashed cottages.

The Birdcage is one of the village’s more unusual dwellings. The narrow three-level home is taller than its neighbours and was once a cobbler’s workshop.

Fun fact: Port Isaac’s Squeezy Belly Alley is said to be among the narrowest streets in the country!

Once a bustling port, the village still boasts a picturesque harbour today. You can book fishing excursions during the summer months, or simply wander around to enjoy the views and ambience.

You can also stroll along the pretty shingle beach. Pretty at all times of the year, Port Isaac is especially charming in the warmer months.   

You may have a feeling of déjà vu as you explore Port Isaac. The village has been used as a filming location for several TV shows and films, including Poldark from the 1970s and the 2000 movie Saving Grace.

You may recognise the village as Portwenn, from the more recent TV series, Doc Martin.

If you are a fan of the TV series why not book a Doc Martin & North Cornwall Tour with Meneage Tours? This is the best way to explore this area of Cornwall and enjoy all your favourite Doc Martin filming locations too.

Close to the Helford River Estuary and just six miles south of Falmouth, the award-winning Trebah Gardens is one of Cornwall’s many dazzling botanical attractions.

Experience the changing of the seasons in the lovely sub-tropical gardens, with ancient rhododendrons and fragrant magnolias taking centre stage in spring and the huge leaves of the giant rhubarb making a striking impression in the summer.

With autumn comes the blues and whites of the attractive hydrangea, while in the winter months you can admire an array of flora from the southern hemisphere.

Of course, there’s lots of other verdant foliage and vibrant colours throughout the year. The 25-acre gardens are home to plants from across the planet, including towering bamboos, Australian ferns, and Mediterranean cacti.

Leading down to its own stretch of sandy beach, the garden contains a relaxing spring and an attractive pond filled with koi carp.

Trebah Gardens is open year-round, though only on selected days of the week; check opening hours in advance of your visit. Admission for adults costs £12 in the summer season and £6 in the winter season. Children aged five to 15 are half price, and under-fives go free.

How much time do you need? Plan to half a day exploring the gardens. Refreshments are available from the cafe next to the ticket office.

9. Land’s End

An iconic British landmark, Land’s End is the most westerly point of England. It sits on the tip of the Penwith peninsula. The start or endpoint of the famous cross-kingdom walk (England’s Land’s End to Scotland’s John O’Groats ), it takes a couple of months to walk the 870+ miles from England’s extreme west to Scotland’s extreme north.

A popular tourist destination, there are many ways to enjoy Land’s End. Visiting costs nothing (though you will have to pay for parking if you drive there), making it one of the best free things to do in Cornwall.

Follow the scenic drive from St Ives for a memorable journey. Feast your eyes on amazing coastal views and follow historic walking trails.

Plan a stop at Mên-an-Tol, a Bronze Age site consisting of four stones one of which is circular with a hole in the middle. According to Cornish folklore, this stone has curative and magical powers!

Call in at one of the cute cafes for a traditional Cornish pasty or cream tea, and cool down with an ice cream on a warm day.

Various family-friendly events take place throughout the year – find out more on the Land’s End website . Of course, don’t leave without a photograph in front of the famous Land’s End sign.

Good to know – Land’s End is particularly busy during the summer school holidays from late July to early September.

The Lizard is a village at the bottom of Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula. It is the most southern village in mainland UK and boasts some of the best opportunities for seeing diverse wildlife. Visit Lizard Point to watch for large marine creatures like whales, dolphins, and seals, as well as a wide selection of sea birds.

Kynance Cove, at Lizard Point, is a spectacular sight, with impressive serpentine rocks rising from the white sands and clear blue waters. It’s no wonder it’s often listed as one of the best beaches in Cornwall!

Interesting local landmarks include the serpentinite stone Church of St. Winwallow, which is Britain’s most southerly church, the 1752 Lizard Lighthouse, which is the oldest in Cornwall, and the collapsed sea cave of Lion’s Den.

How long do you need? You can take in The Lizard’s highlights in half a day, though you’re sure to want to stay longer!

When is the best time of year to visit? The Lizard is at its best in the warmer months, though the summer holidays can be exceptionally busy.

Located in southeast Cornwall, Polperro is one of Cornwall’s prettiest villages. A craggy cliff ravine has protected the traditional fishermens’ homes that lie jumbled along the narrow, twisting streets.

As well as a long fishing heritage, Polperro also has a darker side to its history; it was a hotbed for smuggling in times gone by, with lorry loads of contraband passing through the harbour.

You can learn more about Polperro’s nefarious past at the fascinating Museum of Smuggling, housed in an old pilchard factory. Entrance costs £2 for adults and 50p for kids.

Polperro Model Village is another local highlight, with its quaint replica of Polperro and the working model railway. Step into the animated Land of Legend to uncover Cornish myths and folklore, all in miniature.

It’s one of the top fun things to do with kids in Cornwall. Adult tickets are £3, child tickets are £2. The attraction is closed every Saturday and through the winter.

Explore tidal pools and relax on the sands of the small but lovely beach. Join a fishing trip from the harbour, admire the vistas from the coastal paths, and step into cellars once used by smugglers and now converted into shops, cafes, and galleries.  

How long do you need to visit? Plan at least a day to enjoy the best of Polperro.

Good to know – Cars are banned in Polperro which makes it ideal to explore on foot. Note that the main car park is 750 uphill from the village.

Close to the Looe Estuary in southeast Cornwall, where both the East and West Looe Rivers meet the sea, the pretty seaside town of Looe is a popular tourist destination and a working fishing port. The town is famous for its fresh fish—sample delicious bounties from the ocean in one of Looe’s many excellent restaurants.

A great place to visit at any time of the year, Looe offers a variety of attractions for people of all ages. The town hosts the energetic Looe Live! each September, with diverse bands and singers gracing the stages.

Visit the Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol (admission £2 for adults, free for children) to learn more about the town’s history, and uncover the area’s maritime past on a tour of the Old Sardine Factory Heritage Centre (£15–20 for family tickets). Seasonal opening hours operate at each attraction.

Join a boat trip to the tranquil Looe Island to observe rare flora and fauna, relax on the sandy beach, go crabbing along the harbour wall, and take leisurely walks through the countryside.     

How long do you need to visit? Plan at least a day to explore the attractions of Looe.

Tip – If you enjoy walking the coastal path between Polperro and Looe is particularly scenic. The 5-mile route takes about 1 hour 30 mins and there are regular buses back to Looe. Note this walk is not suitable for families with children, prams, pushchairs or wheelchairs.

Lying along the south-central Cornish coast, Mevagissey is an idyllic fishing village that was once at the heart of the county’s pilchard industry. Sit in one of the harbourside cafes to watch boats coming and going.

You can soak up some sun and swim at the laid-back beach, stroll around the 1891 harbour, take a boat ride, and go fishing. In the summer you can hop on the Mevagissey to Fowey ferry to compare and contrast two of Cornwall’s charming villages.

Mevagissey’s waters are home to various wildlife, including dolphins and seabirds. You may also spot porpoises and seals in the shimmering emerald waters. Alternatively, learn more about marine life at the small Mevagissey Aquarium, housed within an old 1897 lifeboat house. Admission is free.

Kids are sure to love Mevagissey World of Model Railways, where a small train winds its way through various landscapes and where little ones can see Thomas the Tank Engine. Admission is £5/£3.50 for adults and children respectively.

One of Cornwall’s most popular tourist towns, Padstow lies on the county’s north coast. The gorgeous harbour is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, where people can watch the fishing boats, fish for crabs, and enjoy a meal in one of the waterside eateries.

Padstow is known for its excellent dining scene and even boasts a few restaurants owned by TV chefs, like Paul Ainsworth and Rick Stein. Pop into Stein’s Fish and Chips for an iconic British lunch and grab a traditional Cornish pasty from Stein’s Deli.    

Bask on Padstow’s beaches, visit the National Lobster Hatchery, and explore the gorgeous 1592 Elizabethan country house of Prideaux Place. Board the Black Tor ferry to cross the river to explore the elegant and high-class village of Rock.

Active visitors often enjoy walking sections of the Camel Trail, a 17-mile track along a disused railway line. Hop in the saddle to cover more ground along the scenic route; cycling the Camel Trail Padstow to Bodmin is a great way to explore the local area.

If you’re in town in early May, don’t miss Padstow’s unusual Obby Oss Parade for May Day. Beat the summer crowds and plan your trip for outside of the school holidays.

Falmouth is one of the biggest towns in Cornwall. It sits on the edges of the River Fal on Cornwall’s south coast. It features one of the biggest natural harbours in the world.

Falmouth is known for its excellent beaches, with Swanpool, Maenporth, Gyllyngvase, and Castle top place for family days out. Grab a bucket and spade and build a sandcastle, take a dip in the sea, and bask in the sunshine.

History lovers can explore the remains of Pendennis Castle, a massive stronghold built by Henry XIII in the 1540s.

Travel back in time and experience Cornwall at war, with awesome exhibits like huge cannons and guns from different eras, immersive installations in the keep, and an interactive observation post. Admission costs 11.30–13.10 GBP for adults and 6.80–7.90 for children (depending on whether you visit at off-peak, standard, or peak times).

Entrance is free for English Heritage members .

The award-winning National Maritime Museum is among the top Cornish attractions for families. Discover more about science, nature, folklore, and seafaring heritage. Tickets are £14.95 for adults and £7.50 for children under 18. It’s free for kids under five.  

How long do you need to visit? Spend a couple of days in Falmouth to really appreciate the town’s many delights.

The historic inland town of Bodmin is located on the edge of Bodmin Moor in east Cornwall. The former county capital offers a wealth of exciting things to see and do for everyone, from toddlers to older adults.

Attractions include the large 13 th -century St. Petroc’s Church, the hilltop obelisk of Bodmin Beacon, and the elegant country house of Lanhydrock.

Tour the eerie old 18 th -century Bodmin Jail, visit the Military Museum, and experience legal drama at the Shire Hall Courtroom Experience.

One of the coolest things to do is a trip to Bodmin Moor. Wild, remote, rugged, and windswept, the moor is steeped in legends—look out for the Beast of Bodmin! Classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the moor covers some 77 square miles and has quaint villages, historic spots, lakes, and caverns.

Climb to the top of Brown Willy, the highest point in Cornwall, and go on a literary adventure at Jamaica Inn, home to the world’s only museum dedicated to famous writer Daphne Du Maurier. It costs £3.95 to visit the museum.      

Vibrant and lively, Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most-visited towns. Lying on the county’s north coast, it is famous for surfing, beaches, and nightlife. Indeed, Newquay is often referred to as the UK’s Surfing Capital.

There are many surf shops, instructors, and rentals throughout the town. You’ll find the best waves during autumn and winter. Fistral Beach is a surfer’s paradise, and it hosts several international competitions and surfing events.   

In summer, the beautiful beaches beckon too. Fistral Beach draws large crowds in the warmer months, with lifeguards on duty. Other great Newquay beaches include Great Western, Crantock, Watergate Bay, and Towan.

More Newquay adventures can be found at the world-class Concrete Waves skate park. Ride the Newquay Land Train for leisurely sightseeing.

Spend family days out at the 13-acre Newquay Zoo, home to numerous animal species from around the globe, a maze, and a play area. Tickets are priced at £12.60 adults and £9.50 children aged three to 15.

Newquay is a year-round destination, though it is very busy during the height of summer and during British school holidays.  

The village of Mousehole is in southwest Cornwall on the southern edge of the Penwith Peninsula. Sitting on the shores of Mount’s Bay, it oozes character and charm. A major fishing port in times gone by, visiting Mousehole today is like stepping back in time.

Take time to roam the narrow streets and discover cute cafes, lovely homes, colourful galleries, welcoming pubs, and quirky boutiques. You’re sure to understand why literary giant Dylan Thomas famously referred to Mousehole as “the loveliest village in England”.

The gorgeous harbour provides exceptional ocean views and towards the nearby St. Clements Island. If you visit in the winter, do step outside after dark to admire the many twinkly Christmas lights that deck the harbour and homes.

At low tide you can relax on the sandy Mousehole Harbour Beach, or ride the waves on a surfboard. Alternatively, stroll along the pebbles of Newlyn Beach. Call into a local eatery for a bite of stargazy pie. Created in Mousehole, the dish might give you a bit of a shock—sardine heads poke right out through the pie crust!  

How long do you need to visit? You can enjoy the best of Mousehole in a day.

Good to know – Try to visit outside of the peak summer season to dodge the crowds.

Managed by the National Trust , Lanhydrock is a superb country estate close to Bodmin. Spread across almost 900s acres, the estate features a fine Victorian Mansion, an olde-worlde church, scenic woodlands, and well-tended gardens.

Although most parts of the historic country house were built in the late Victorian period, parts of the handsome building date as far back as the 1620s. It was once the property of an Augustinian priory.  

The interiors are affluent, yet unassuming. Tours provide glimpses into two sides of life in Victorian Britain, visiting both the lavish main family areas and the staff quarters. Peek into grand reception rooms and bedrooms, wander through kitchens and nurseries, and see where servants used to sleep.

You can also visit the Church of St. Hydroc, built in the late 1600s. A large Cornish cross stands outside the church.  

The formal gardens feature an abundance of plants and flowers and the woodlands are home to lots of wildlife. Follow picture-perfect riverside pathways and backcountry cycling routes.

Tickets cost £10 for adults and are half price for children. Entrance is free for National Trust members. Allow around three hours to visit, longer if you wish to explore the extensive woodlands in detail.       

Referred to as the Gateway to the Lizard Peninsula, Helston is a fairly large market town in southwest Cornwall. It’s known for its vivacious May celebration of the Floral Dance, complete with cool depictions of St. George and St. Michael conquering a dragon and a demon.

There are many architectural gems around the town, with a mixture of Victorian and Georgian styles.

Highlights include The Monument, an exquisite structure built in the 1830s to commemorate a local philanthropist, The Guildhall, St. Michael’s Church, and the historic Angel Hotel. Helston Folk Museum offers insights into local life and is free to enjoy. Call into The Anchor for a quick drink, once a monk’s lodging and later a tavern.

Visit Flambards for family fun. The attraction park has rides suitable for all ages, with tamer attractions for little ones and adrenaline-inducing rides for thrill-seekers.

The indoor areas are great for wet-weather days. Take a walk through a replica Victorian village, experience London during the Blitz, and see the socio-economic divide from the past in a Victorian home.

Open on selected days all through the year, do check opening times before visiting; certain areas are closed on some days, and other days the entire attraction is closed. Inclusive tickets cost £19.95 for adults and £14.95 for children. Tickets are valid for seven days.    

Truro is the only city in Cornwall and it is the county capital. It’s located inland in Central Cornwall, on the banks of the Truro River. Spend a couple of days exploring the city, or stay longer and use it as a base for discovering one of the most picturesque regions in the UK.

Start your city break with a visit to the Royal Cornwall Museum to delve deeper into Cornish culture and local life.

The museum also features eye-catching art and global artefacts from ancient civilisations. Entrance costs £5 for adults (kids go free), and this includes admission for the entire year.

Admire the stunning Gothic Revival Truro Cathedral, relax in the serene Victoria Gardens, and shop ‘til you drop in Lemon Street Market. Don’t forget to pick up some locally produced fudge to take home with you.

From spring to autumn, you can catch a cruise from the harbour in Truro to Falmouth. Sail through beautiful scenery and make a stop at the picturesque country estate of Trelissick, where you can have a delicious cream tea amid exotic plant life. (Tickets are £8/£4 for adults/children. Admission is free for National Trust members .)   

Cornwall’s most westerly town, Penzance lies on the edge of Mount’s Bay on the Penwith Peninsula. Famous for bandits and buccaneers, the town inspired Gilbert and Sullivan to produce the well-known opera, The Pirates of Penzance . Each midsummer solstice the town holds a lively week-long festival, called Golowan.

There are several ancient Stone- and Bronze-Age sites close to Penzance, including the stone circle known as the Merry Maidens, Lanyon Quoit, and Mên-an-Tol. The West Penwith Area of Natural Beauty is also easy to access.

In town, Morrab Gardens offer pleasant walks through rare and interesting botanical life, and there’s no charge to enter the pretty gardens.

Eureka Escape Cornwall is a fabulously fun attraction for families and friends (one-hour experiences vary in price depending on group size).  

Walk along the town’s most historic thoroughfare of Chapel Street, inspire your inner creative in the many art galleries, and see the interesting collections in the Penlee House Gallery and Museum (open year-round, closed on Sundays, admission fee £6 adults, £3 people aged 18 to 26, free for kids).   

Heartlands is a cool cultural centre in the Cornish town of Redruth. Situated in west Cornwall and slightly inland from the north coast, Redruth was once the 19 th -century hub of Cornwall’s tin mining industry.

Heartlands was created on a former mining site, turning unsightly industrial wasteland into a fun family-friendly attraction. Spread over 19 acres, Heartlands is a terrific place to discover more about Cornwall’s mining history.

In addition to interesting displays and exhibitions, the centre also has an awesome adventure playground for children and well-kept landscaped gardens. Visit the old carpentry shed, now a café, for a bite to eat.

One of the most eye-catching features is the gaping Robinson’s Shaft, an engineering marvel that reached more than 1,400 feet into the ground. You can still see a historic pumping engine too.      

Open all year round, the combination of indoor and outdoor spaces makes this a top place no matter the weather. Best of all, Heartlands is completely free to visit.  

How long do you need? Allocate around an hour for a visit.

The Isles of Scilly lie just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall and are easy to visit on a day trip. Regular boat services connect the island with ports around West Cornwall, or you can fly to the islands from Newquay and Land’s End.

The archipelago has several islands and islets, with the largest being St. Mary’s. Other major islands include Tresco, St. Martin’s, and St Agnes.

An absolute treasure for archaeology buffs, the islands have almost 300 ancient sites. From burial grounds to monuments, there are whispers from the past everywhere.

Historic hotspots include the centuries old Dungeon Bar, which was once a prison, the old Garrison Walls on St. Mary’s, Tresco Abbey Garden, and Bishop Rock Lighthouse.

It’s easy to find secluded beaches lapped by clear waters, and the islands are a magnet for lovers of water sports; enjoy sailing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and diving to see enigmatic shipwrecks.

Coastal paths open up the most incredible views, and you can see lots of wildlife, including seals, bats, birds, and butterflies.     

Tracing the coastline of the UK’s south west peninsula, the South West Coast Path runs for a whopping 630 miles from Somerset’s Minehead, through Cornwall, into Devon (home to the English Riviera), before finally finishing in Poole, Dorset.   

The UK’s longest national trail, the South West Coast Path is also one of the longest walks in the world. Don’t worry if you don’t have the stamina to complete the full trail—you can tackle smaller sections and still have an amazing experience.

There are five paths in Cornwall, which is little surprise given that almost half of the total route is found in the county.

The coastal pathways boast immense diversity, from gentle flats and sheer valleys, to stunning headlands and peaceful estuaries.

Discover bustling harbours, vibrant towns, scenic villages, secluded coves, and more. Fasten your boots and embark on a rewarding hike to remember, with glorious vistas, fascinating wildlife, amazing adventures, and interesting heritage.   

Whether you want to spend several days hiking or fancy an hours’ walk, it’s tough to find better walks than those along the South West Coast Path.

As there you have it – the very best places to visit in Cornwall including beaches, seaside towns, stunning coastlines and more.

We have even more great resources to help you plan your visit to Cornwall (and other fabulous destinations in the South West of England) –

• PLAN YOUR TRIP – Cornwall Travel Guide
• PLAN YOUR ITINERARY – Guide to the beautiful Cornish seaside town of St Ives
• WHERE TO STAY – Best places to stay in Cornwall
• Top 10 places to visit in South West England
• 24 famous landmarks in England to visit (Top 3 for every region)
• 10 most scenic train journeys to take in Britain
• Devon Travel Guide
• Dorset and Jurassic Coast Travel Guide

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35 epic places to visit in Cornwall (updated for 2024)

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Cornwall? From the most beautiful beaches to its charismatic towns, here’s a full list of the very best locations that you can’t miss!

The best places to visit in Cornwall include St Ives, Newquay, Bodmin Moor, Land’s End and mythical Tintagel.

I come from a long line of Cornish ancestors and have always had family in Camborne, so I’ve been a frequent visitor throughout my whole life.

But in the last three years, I’ve got more in touch with my Cornish heritage and have spent months at a time in the region, visiting virtually every town and many villages and I’m well on my way to walking past every single beach!

This blog post is a full list of the very top places to visit in Cornwall; put together by the vast amount of time I’ve spent here.

Whether you’re looking for the most beautiful places in the Duchy or some local secrets and hidden gems, you’ll find it all in this article!

Table of Contents

What are the best places to visit in Cornwall?

Here are some of my top places to visit in Cornwall:

• Tintagel: I love the coastline here, along with the fascinating castle.
• Port Isaac: for the Doc Martin connections, of course!
• Bodmin Moor: it’s brooding and encapsulating, and is a refreshing change from the busy coastal towns.
• Padstow: known for its connections to Rick Stein, but my favourite thing about this coastal town is the Camel Estuary.
• St Ives: it’s Cornwall’s top tourist town for a reason!
• Land’s End: the landmark attraction is over-touristy, but the coastline around Land’s End is well worth hiking around.
• Mousehole: possibly the most charming fishing village in the Duchy.
• Truro: Cornwall’s capital, it’s the ultimate place to visit for Cornish culture and heritage.
• Falmouth: this is my favourite town in Cornwall – it has an incredible vibe!
• Polperro: another glorious fishing village with fascinating smuggling connections.
• The Rame Peninsula: this is my favourite hidden gem in Cornwal l.
• Launceston: Cornwall’s old county town, this is a must-visit for anyone who’s into history.

Let’s go into these places, and other top spots in Cornwall, in more detail!

Where to go in Cornwall: My top places!

Here’s my full list of where to go in Cornwall, roughly starting in the northeast of the region, by the border with Devon, and travelling around in an anticlockwise direction.

1. Hartland Heritage Coast

Let’s start with one of my favourite hidden gems!

The Hartland Heritage Coast borders Devon, and it’s a remote place that is usually only visited by the most adventurous travellers to Cornwall!

There are two ways to visit the Hartland Heritage Coast. You can either hike from Hartland Quay (in Devon) or Morwenstow (the first village of Cornwall) on the South West Coast Path , taking in the intricacies of the cliffs and watching them tumble into tiny coves.

You’ll see spots like Hawker’s Hut , which is where Robert Stephen Hawker , a local clergyman and poet, used to come to write. He was the songwriter behind Trelawny , which is the unofficial Cornish national anthem!

Alternatively, you can drive to places like Welcombe Mouth Beach (which is technically in Devon, but only just!) and Morwenstow and explore the immediate coastline around these areas.

We hiked from Hartland Quay to Bude on our South West Coast Path adventure – it was the toughest hike we did on the entire trail, but was definitely one of the most scenic!

Beautiful Bude is a popular surf town not too far from the border with Devon. Its long sandy beach and relaxed culture make it one of the best places to go in Cornwall.

Its main two beaches, Summerleaze and Crooklets , both have a variety of breaks, often suitable for beginners but sometimes with waves challenging enough for more experienced surfers. Bude Sea Pool is a free-of-charge spot for safe swimming.

While in town, don’t miss visiting Bude Castle , a historic property which now acts as the town’s history museum, and Bude Canal , which stretches into the countryside.

The main reason I visit Bude is for hiking. Along with the challenging trek to Hartland Quay , you can also walk to Crackington Haven or Bostcastle from Bude .

Think towering cliffs, views across the crashing Atlantic Waves and hidden sandy beaches. Hiking in Cornwall ‘s north east is a beauty!

Here’s my full guide to Bude!

How to get there: Bude is connected to Plymouth and Exeter by (infrequent) buses, and there is another (also infrequent) connection to Boscastle and Tintagel. However, I’d highly recommend driving; for all of North East Cornwall’s draws, a reliable public transport network is alas not one of them!

3. Widemouth Bay

From Bude, head on down to Widemouth Bay , an expansive beach that’s ever-popular with surfers!

Widemouth Bay is more or less an extension of Bude, with a beachside cafe and a caravan park. But in Widemouth, the surf’s always up, and when the sun’s shining you’ll feel like you’re on the East Coast of Australia.

If you’re new to surfing , Widemouth’s a wonderful place to learn.

How to get there: The 95 bus connects Bude with Widemouth Bay; it only runs once every two hours, but it’s a fairly easy (for this part of Cornwall, at least) 3 mile/ 5km walk one way, so you could take the bus and then walk back. It’s only a 7 minute drive from Bude centre.

4. Crackington Haven

One of the quieter beaches on this list, Crackington Haven is popular with geology students due to the unique layers of sandstone which are part of the Crackington Formation. There used to be lots of fossils in the area, but they have been over-collected so are difficult to come by nowadays.

However, it’s one of the best places in Cornwall for rock pooling – visit during low tide to spot crabs and shells in the pools.

A small community lives in Crackington Haven (there’s also a Middle Crackington and Higher Crackington!); but generally, it’s a quiet spot, frequented by rock enthusiasts and hikers (the Crackington Haven to Boscastle walk is one of my favourites on the South West Coast Path).

How to get there: The ubiquitous 95 bus runs through the town every two hours; although we once waited so long for this that we gave up and ended up taking a taxi to Bude, which cost £30! Unfortunately, driving is also the easiest way to access Crackington Haven.

5. Boscastle

Boscastle will enchant you from the second you drive into its inlet.

Run by the National Trust , the village is divided by the River Valency, with quaint cottages and shops on each side.

Ultimately, Boscastle leads to the natural harbour, one of the most dramatically breathtaking natural spots in all of Cornwall. Enjoy it from ground level, and climb up the cliffs on either side to take in the view from above!

Boscastle is also home to the somewhat spooky Museum of Witchcraft and Magic , where you can learn about the village’s mythology and legendary connections.

Check out my full Boscastle blog post by clicking here.

How to get there: Either drive or take the good old every-two-hour 95 bus from Tintagel or Bude!

6. Tintagel

A petite village bursting with history, Tintagel is crowned by the almighty Tintagel Castle – definitely one of the most historic places to visit in Cornwall.

This English Heritage-owned castle is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, and just underneath it, you’ll find the enigmatic Merlin’s Cave .

Whether you believe the legendary connections or not, Tintagel Castle’s factual history is just as fascinating. It was once the seat of Cornish kings , and ruins have been found in the castle from Spain and France, nodding to prehistoric trade between Cornwall and European countries.

Once you’ve explored the castle (see below for my video with some of my budget hacks for doing so!), see the rest of the village!

Highlights include the Medieval Post Office , the multi-sensory experience of King Arthur’s Great Halls and drinking at Ye Olde Malthouse Inn , a 14th-century pub.

Click here for my full Tintagel guide.

How to get there: It’s the last stop on the 95 bus route from Bude, or there are plenty of car parking spaces – although if you’re visiting in the peak summer season, I’d recommend arriving early to secure your spot.

7. Port Isaac

One of Cornwall’s most quaint seaside villages, Port Isaac began its life as a very isolated fishing settlement, accessible only by boat.

Nowadays it’s a tourist hub (not many people live in the village itself; although there is a population living in the “new village” above), but its horseshoe-shaped harbour and historic fishing cottages ensure that it’s still charming even on its busiest days!

While it’s one of the most beautiful places to see in Cornwall, it accredits much of its popularity by being the setting of the hit TV show, Doc Martin , which followed a grumpy doctor who moved from London to the Cornish village (known in the show as “Portwenn”).

If you’re a fan of the show, you can do a Doc Martin-themed walking tour around the village’s filming locations!

If you’re not, it’s still worth strolling through the winding streets of Port Isaac, perhaps enjoying some of the South West Coast Path walks around the village (you could hike over to Port Quin , which is a lovely place for paddleboarding), or boat trips leave the harbour and venture out to the Cornish coastline.

Here’s my full list of the best things to do in Port Isaac .

How to get there: Port Isaac has bus links to Wadebridge and Rock, but most tourists drive. Park in the upper car park to avoid dealing with crowds of tourists and narrow winding roads in the village itself!

Sample countless gastronomical dishes in Padstow – or, as some dub it, Padstein (it’s where Rick Stein has opened up a few restaurants and competes with Paul Ainsworth for the most prolific Padstow restaurant!).

This harbour town is without a doubt most famous for its food scene ; although, as a vegetarian, I found that there were very few options for me! I’ve eaten at Caffe Rojano , which is Paul Ainsworth’s Italian, and enjoyed the pizza; although we found the pasta dishes to be very overpriced.

If fine dining isn’t your scene, Padstow still has plenty to offer. Walk around the harbour, visit the Padstow Lobster Hatchery to discover more about these creatures and head out on a Padstow Sealife Safari to have a chance of spotting seals and dolphins.

Prideaux Place is nearby; an Elizabethan manor that’s open for any tourists who want to step back into Cornish history.

Thirsty? Visit the nearby Trevibban Mill Vineyard to try some Cornish wine or do a tour of Tarquin’s Gin Distillery to sample local gin!

Take a look at the best things to do in Padstow by clicking here.

How to get there: There’s a large car park on the outskirts of town to accommodate drivers; Padstow is close to Wadebridge and Bodmin.

9. Bodmin Moor

Head away from the coast and see a different side to Cornish nature by venturing to Bodmin Moor .

The craggy moorland is home to a diverse array of walks, leading to places like Golitha Falls , Brown Willy (the highest point in Cornwall) and ancient sites like the Cheesewring .

It’s also worth popping into Jamaica Inn to learn about the moor’s smuggling history. This ex-coaching house was once a smuggler’s haven; its fascinating history inspired famous novelist, Daphne Du Maurier, to write a book with the same name.

Enjoy a hearty meal at the attached pub, or spend a night in the creaky hotel itself. It’s rumoured to be haunted – when I stayed there, I was told that “there’s a ghost in your room, it likes to put its hand on sleeping people’s shoulders in the middle of the night!”.

How to get there: You’ll need a car to explore the moor effectively. The A30 runs right through it, with smaller roads leading to its many attractions.

10. Bodmin Town

Bodmin Town is often forgotten when it comes to places to see in the UK, but I love how it oozes history and the many museums and exhibitions to enjoy in the town centre.

It’s certainly not as pretty as elsewhere in Cornwall, but here you’ll find Bodmin Jail , where you can hear hair-raising stories about the history of the penal system in the UK (it was the blueprint for many Victorian prisons across the country) and descend right into the Victorian prison cells.

For something a little less eerie, head to Bodmin Town Museum , where you’ll learn about its history as Cornwall’s county town or the science museum of Discovery 42 .

Or, head to Bodmin Keep to learn about Cornwall’s military history.

See all of the things to do in Bodmin here

How to get there: If you want to take public transport, trains leave from London Paddington and various other stations and terminate in Bodmin Parkway. From here, you can take a bus to the town of Bodmin.

11. Newquay

Now here’s a town that doesn’t need any introduction! Showstopping Newquay is one of the most-visited beach towns in the whole of the UK. It’s famous for its surfing culture, beaches and rocking nightlife!

My favourite beaches in Newquay include:

• the popular surfing spot Fistral Beach
• Lusty Glaze which is a private beach
• Towan Beach with its distinctive rocky outcrop with a house on top
• Watergate Bay , which is a little way from the town, but you can hike here on the coastal path

The section of South West Coast Path that leads from Newquay to Porthcothan is one of my favourites – it traverses around some of the Duchy’s best beach towns. Enjoy white sand backing onto bright blue water at Mawgan Porth and gaze at the jagged rocky outcrops dotted out to sea at Bedruthan Steps.

But that’s not all Newquay’s got to offer – in fact, there’s plenty to do here in the rain , too! Visit the town’s museum, have an afternoon tea at the Headland Hotel and storm watch (if the weather’s really bad!), browse the town’s surf-themed shops or enjoy a few drinks at the many bars and pubs – my favourite’s Tom Thumb .

Check out my Newquay travel guide!

How to get there: Trains connect Newquay with London, Bristol and Exeter; although you’ll have to change in Par. Bus services are also available from many UK cities.

12. Perranporth

Hikeable or driveable from Newquay (and one of the best day trips from the popular town!) Perranporth is a small settlement with a huge beach!

Perran Sands is most famous for surfing, but it also has The Watering Hole , the UK’s only legitimate beach bar – that is, it’s a bar that’s literally on the beach’s sands.

Perranporth has a lot of cultural and historic significance to us Cornish folk too – it’s where St Piran, the patron saint of Cornwall , first came to land in the region. You can visit St Piran’s Oratory , which was allegedly built by the saint after he landed here in the 5th or 6th century.

Near Perranporth, I’d also recommend visiting Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm , where you can learn about the production of and try Rattlers, Cornwall’s most famous cider.

How to get there: Perranporth has bus routes to Truro and Newquay, although many visitors drive.

13. St Agnes 

A village split into two parts, St Agnes tumbles down to the water’s edge on one side, and rises upwards on the other.

The main attraction (In my opinion at least!), is the coastal path that connects St Agnes with Perranporth . This rocky region is a mining heritage site, punctuated by ruins including the Cligga Head Mine , was operational until the 20th century; nowadays you can visit to see the remains of the mine.

Also in St Agnes, you’ll find the beautiful Trevaunance Cove Beach , which generally has safe swimming and a variety of eateries. I love The Driftwood Spars , which is just on the coast path as it leads into the village and serves up delicious pub grub with views of the village.

How to get there: Driving, or you can take the Atlantic Coaster which leaves from the village every couple of hours in peak season. Due to St Agnes’s tiny size, buses and lorries sometimes get stuck on the winding country roads in – this happened to us once; we were stuck in the village for three hours and ended up taking a taxi back to Perranporth (which was around £10).

14. Redruth and Camborne

Both Redruth and Camborne played a significant role in Cornwall’s mining industry during the 19th century.

While they aren’t usually among the top places to visit in Cornwall, I consider them a hidden gem and love the mining history – I am a bit biased though, as my family are from Camborne and my great-granddad, and many ancestors before him, were miners in the town!

Walking around either town, you’ll notice the striking 18th-century granite buildings. A little further out, you’ll find ex-mines that are open for exploring, such as the King Edward Mine Museum and the East Pool Mine Museum .

Or, visit Heartlands to see the Cornish Diaspora Gardens and the Mining Museum .

Camborne deserves way more credit than it receives – it’s a fascinating place that changed the world’s mining landscape AND was the site of the world’s first passenger-carrying vehicle – click here to see my full guide!

How to get there: Both Camborne and Redruth are on the national rail route from Paddington (and one from Bristol). They also have good bus connections to other spots in Cornwall, and have a few car parks for drivers.

14. Godrevy Point and Gwithian Sands

Head down to Godrevy Point , one of the most eye-catching coastal spots in coastal Cornwall which then extends to Gwithian Sands, the longest beach in Cornwall that extends for three miles.

Godrevy Point is home to Godrevy Lighthouse which dates back to 1859. Walk around the other side of the lighthouse to Mutton Cove, which is one of the best places to see seals in Cornwall !

How to get there: Driving’s the best way – there’s a large car park at Godrevy Point.

15. St Ives

Bright blue water, quaint cottages, bright boats bobbing on the harbour and the sound of squawking seagulls in the air… St Ives is postcard-perfect.

St Ives boasts palm-lined beaches with powdery white sand , but it’s also famous for its arty culture – artists came to the town from all over the UK and Europe because of its natural beauty.

Nowadays, you can visit the TATE art gallery and the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Gardens to engross in the art scene.

Walk from St Ives town centre to Porthminster Beach, Porthmeor Beach and Carbis Bay Beach – or head further along the bay to Porthkidney Sands .

Another must-do in St Ives is to experience the food scene – visit Blas Burgerworks for delectable burgers, head to Moomaid of Zennor for traditional ice cream, and visit any pasty shop (S t Ives Bakery is the most popular) for traditional Cornish pasties! 

Click here for all of the things to do in St Ives

How to get there: If you want to do public transport, take a train to St Erth from London, Bristol, Exeter or a few other stations and then change to the scenic branch line. St Ives is one of the furthest west towns in Cornwall and takes around six (or more depending on traffic) hours to drive from London.

A small village sitting on rocky cliffs, Zennor is hike-able on the South West Coast Path from St Ives. This was one of my favourite walks on the entire path – the clifftop views are immense, although there are a lot of rocky sections where you’ll need to do a little bouldering!

Once you arrive in the village, check out its ancient monuments, such as Zennor Quoit.

Zennor was one of the last areas where locals spoke the Cornish language in the late 18th century – until it was revitalized in the 20th century, that is!

In the small village, enjoy a slap-up dinner at The Tinner’s Arms and venture into the church to see a carving of the Mermaid of Zennor.

How to get there: Take the Land’s End Coaster from St Ives (which is reachable from St Erth on the branch line, and St Erth is connected to London Paddington). Driving to Zennor can be a bit of a headache; the roads are windy and small, and when we drove there once we were held up by cows on the road! The Land’s End Coaster also passes through Penzance, Porthcurno and Land’s End.

17. St Just

The closest settlement to Land’s End, St Just was the centre of the tin mining industry in West Penwith (the far west part of Cornwall)

Granite cottages line the village; there’s not a huge amount to do there, but it’s one of the best places in Cornwall to soak in authentic Cornish culture.

There’s a packed calendar of events in St Just throughout the yea r: it’s one of the best places to celebrate St Piran’s Day and we saw the Ordinalia , a historic Cornish play, in October 2021.

Pop into Pendeen while you’re in St Just, which is home to red sand cliffs contrasting with bright blue water and the Geevor Tin Mine .

How to get there: The Land’s End Coaster runs through St Just, connecting it with St Ives and Penzance, or there is a large car park in town.

18. Sennen and Sennen Cove

Sennen is a small village sitting on the top of one of West Cornwall’s remote cliffs. With a medieval church and the First and Last Inn with smuggling connections , it’s a lovely spot for a stroll, hearty pub lunch and step back in history.

Once you’ve explored Sennen, head down to Sennen Cove . A bright white beach extending along the West Cornwall coastline, it’s the best place for surfing in this part of Cornwall.

There are safe swimming areas, and a beach cafe is a welcoming spot to enjoy brunch, afternoon snacks or drinks as you watch the sunset.

If you’re feeling intrepid, hike to Pendeen, where you’ll bypass some of the most remote beaches and areas of coastline in the country.

How to get there: The Land’s End Coaster stops in Sennen; you’ll need to walk down to Sennen Cove from here. There’s a large car park in Sennen – again, you’ll need to walk down to the beach.

19. Land’s End

Sitting right in the southwest of the UK, 837 miles from John O’ Groats, Land’s End is striking.

My favourite thing to do here is to gaze out to sea – you can see the Isles of Scilly on a clear day – and walk around to some of the hidden beaches in the area (one of the best is Nanjizal Beach ).

If you’re visiting Cornwall with kids, you’ll find plenty to enjoy at Land’s End. Take a whirl on King Arthur’s Quest , explore the Wallace and Gromit Experience or see the animals at Greeb Farm .

There’s also shopping and a few “first and last” experiences at the point too!

Here’s my full guide on the best things to do in Land’s End

How to get there: Of course, the Land’s End coaster stops in Land’s End! It connects the natural landmark to Penzance and St Ives. Many tourists drive, but there is a hefty charge for parking. You could also park in Sennen and walk to Land’s End.

20. Porthcurno

Tucked away in the corner of southwest Cornwall, Porthcurno’s a tiny village that’s most famous for the Minack Theatre , an open-air auditorium that was pretty much dug out by hand in 1932 by a woman called Rowena Cade.

Take a tour of the Minack Theatre, or catch a show if there’s one playing while you’re in Cornwall!

Also, Porthcurno Beach is one of my favourites in the West Country, a sandy bay enveloped by cliffs, and you’ll also find the fascinating Telegraph Museum which is one of the best things to do in Cornwall in the rain . 

How to get there: There are a few large car parks, making driving a possibility, or take the Land’s End Coaster from Penzance.

21. Mousehole

With boats bobbing gently on the historic harbour, Mousehole looks like it belongs on a postcard.

The charming fishing village is a favourite spot among tourists and locals; but while its beauty is the main allure, you’ll also step back into centuries of history when you walk around the village.

Mousehole used to be a much more important port than Penzance or Newlyn, but was burned to the ground by Spanish invaders in 1595 – all buildings but one date back to after this time.

It was a smuggler’s haven, it’s where Stargazy Pie (a fish pie containing full fish, their heads looking up to the sky) was created and it was where the tragic Penlee lifeboat disaster took place.

You can learn about Mousehole on a guided tour of the village with Elaine , a village local; she’ll make the place come to life with all of her stories and information!

Here is my complete guide to Mousehole

How to get there: I wouldn’t recommend driving to Mousehole; the roads are narrow and winding, and it can be challenging to find parking. Instead, park in Penzance harbour and take the M6 bus to Mousehole.

22. Penzance

While Penzance was a popular tourist hub in the 19th century, it’s not as popular nowadays; but it sits at the end of the GWR main line and has a few fun attractions making it worth popping into!

You can even get the sleeper train from Paddington to Penzance !

Chapel Street is lined with historically significant buildings, including the pubs The Turk’s Head and Admiral Benbow and the house where Maria Bramwell , the mother of the Bronte sisters, grew up!

Visit Newlyn for seafood and art , or stay around in Penzance for the Penlee House Gallery and Museum.

Or, you could take a dip at the harbour, or venture further east to beach towns like Praa Sands .

Check out the best things to do in Penzance here!

How to get there: Either take the train from London Paddington, Bristol or a few other towns in Cornwall, or drive and park in the vast harbour car park.

23. St Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island with a Medieval church and castle on top.

A National Trust property, it’s the Cornish version of Mont St Michel in Normandy; both are set on tidal islands.

The island is only accessible on certain days of the month; the tidal causeway is accessible on even fewer days! However, you can take a boat over on other days.

Marazion is the closest town. Marazion Beach is ever-popular and the view over to St Micheal’s Mount is immense.

See my full blog post about St Micheal’s Mount here

How to get there: Buses connect St Micheal’s Mount with Penzance, or there are a few places to park.

24. Porthleven

Nestled into the northwest corner of the Lizard Peninsula, Porthleven is one of the most attractive harbour towns in Cornwall and is the furthest south working port in the UK.

The harbour dates back to 1811, and it’s lined with gorgeous 19th-century buildings. Take a stroll around the pretty harbour, enjoying the boats, grabbing an ice cream at Nauti But Nice as you stroll!

How to get there: There are buses from Helston or Penzance, or a few car parks for drivers.

25. The Lizard

I wouldn’t go so far as to call The Lizard a hidden gem (although parts of the peninsula are), but this jagged stretch of land extending into the sea is, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular areas of not only Cornwall but the whole of the UK.

Sitting right at the tip, there’s Lizard Point , which is the most southerly in the country. Extending from Lizard Point in either direction, you’ll find epic coastline including the famous Kynance Cove – this is one of the best stretches of the South West Coast Path.

It’s quite isolated, but don’t miss The Lizard if you want to visit somewhere with outstanding beauty and unforgettable views.

It’s also worth venturing to the nearby Gweek Seal Sanctuary where rescued seals are rehabilitated and rehomed, to the Museum of Cornish Life at Helston and the Trebah Subtropical Gardens.

See my full guide to the Lizard Peninsula here , or click here for the best Lizard beaches !

How to get there: The A3083 extends all the way down to Lizard Point, with minor roads branching off to the main attractions on the east and west coast. If you’re taking public transport, there is a Lizard Coaster Bus from Helston, although it doesn’t visit all of the best Lizard attractions.

26. Falmouth

Falmouth’s not as historic as Cornwall’s abundant fishing villages and charming cobblestone towns, but that’s not to say it doesn’t have history.

Pendennis Castle , a fortification sitting just outside of town, was built first; Henry VIII it to protect the River Fal and Cornwall from foreign invasion, and it was also crucial in the Civil War. Nowadays, it’s run by the English Heritage and is one of the best castles to visit in Cornwall .

Falmouth built up in Elizabethan times thanks to the local Killagrew family, who were Cornish nobility but ultimately a family of pirates. It became one of the most important shipping towns in the world at the time, thanks to its deep natural harbour (the third deepest in the world).

You can explore all of this on a visit to the town’s expansive National Maritime Museum , which describes Falmouth’s origins, the Falmouth packet which was the message-carrying service that ran through the town and modern Falmouth harbour.

In town, you’ll find boat trips around the harbour and over to St Mawes, an abundance of excellent international restaurants (Falmouth’s always had a global food scene) and lots of fun bars (it’s Cornwall’s only university town!).

Check out all of the best things to do in Falmouth by clicking here

How to get there: Take a train to Truro and then change to the Falmouth branch line, or drive and park in town (I’ve found free parking close to Pendennis Castle before).

The only city in Cornwall, Truro is renowned for its Bath stone covered Georgian buildings and three-spired cathedral; the only in the county.

It’s free to visit and walk around Truro Cathedral , which only dates back to the late 19th century but stands as a proud Cornish landmark .

Also, don’t miss the Royal Museum of Cornwall , which looks at Cornwall’s unique history and culture. This is probably my favourite museum of Cornwall; they explain Cornish heritage in a comprehensive and enlightening way.

Truro’s popular with locals for shopping, and you can also take cruises down the Fal Estuary , cycle around the city or enjoy some excellent restaurants – I love Hub Box , a burger restaurant located in a former church.

You can see all of the things to do in Truro here

How to get there: Truro has a train station that’s connected to the main Cornwall line that leads to London and Bristol. There are a few car parks throughout the city.

28. Mevagissey

Mevagissey is a traditional fishing village that has long been the centre of Cornwall’s pilchard trade and has an expansive history of boat-making.

It’s one of my favourite towns in Cornwall to get a slice of local life; I enjoy walking around the harbour, checking out the numerous landmarks, and walking through the narrow streets.

A fantastic base for the Eden Project or the Lost Gardens of Heligan , Mevagissey does get popular in school summer holidays, but the rest of the year it’s a charming, laid-back town.

How to get there: Driving’s the best way, which means that the car parks of Mevagissey can be packed in the peak summer season!

29. St Austell

The historic market town of St Austell itself, located slightly inland, isn’t all that exciting on its own- although it is home to the famous St Austell Brewery; tours are sometimes on offer although I’ve never managed to secure one!

However, it’s worth visiting for the stunning natural surroundings. Just a short distance to the Cornish Riviera, with beaches like although there are some beautiful beaches nearby. Head to Porthpean or Polkerris Beach to see what I mean!

This makes it a popular place with families; it’s also much-loved thanks to its proximity to family attractions like the Eden Project, Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Wheal Martyn Mine Museum.

Check out the best things to do in St Austell

How to get there: The Cornish mainline train plys into St Austell, or there are plenty of car parks.

30. Charlestown

Sitting 1.5 miles from St Austell, you’ll find the UNESCO harbour of Charlestown , an 18th-century port that looks as if it’s been frozen in time.

Visit to see the tall ships that bob in the harbour, see filming locations from various hit TV shows and movies ( Poldark and many films were recorded here!), or do a walking tour to see some of Charlestown’s highlights.

Most tourists only visit Charlestown for a day, but with plenty of restaurants and pubs, it’s also a fantastic place to base in and see the best attractions of South Cornwall!

How to get there: Take a bus from St Austell or drive; although parking can be limited (I’d recommend finding parking on the roads above the village).

Beautiful beaches, the peaceful Fowey River , and plenty of history – Fowey is one of the best places to go to in Cornwall for a relaxing holiday.

There are tonnes of attractions in Fowey . Visit Readymoney Cove for a slightly hidden beach and hike up to the ruins of the Tudor St Catherine’s Castle .

In town, walk along the pastel-coloured esplanade, visit Fowey Museum or head out on the Fowey River, either on a boat tour or by paddleboard or kayak, and pass the former home of Daphne Du Maurier.

Bufala is my favourite place to eat in Fowey; it serves up mouthwatering artisanal pizzas and encompasses beautiful views of the town from its terrace.

How to get there: take a bus from St Austell, or drive and park in the car park above the village.

32. Polperro

Think of a traditional Cornish fishing town, and Polperro may immediately spring to mind.

A beautiful harbour awaits you as you venture into Polperro – either inland or from the South West Coast Path.

Spend some time getting lost in the streets, perhaps visiting the Polperro Museum to learn about smuggling in the area or shopping at some of their quirky shops – get some treats for your pooch at The Doghouse Deli and Bar or try some extra-hot chilli sauce at the Cornwall Chilli Company !

The Blue Peter Inn is a cosy pub offering hearty food and drink, sitting just above the harbour. Visit the small beach if the tide’s out, and try to find Willy Wilcox Cave , a notorious ex-smuggling cavern.

Here’s my full guide to Polperro

How to get there: There’s a large car park on the main road – from here, you’ll need to walk down to the village. Alternatively, leave your car at Looe, where there’s a large car park, and take the bus.

Sitting on the Looe Estuary, the town of Looe extends out to sea, terminating in East Looe Beach on one site and Hannafore Point on another. The coastal path ultimately leads to Polperro; it’s a fairly easy five mile walk that’s one of my favourites on the coast path (and you can take a bus back!).

One of the best spots for family holidays in Cornwall, nearby attractions include the M onkey Sanctuary, Adrenalin Quarry and numerous beaches .

Also, don’t miss day tripping out to Looe Island , which you can see from the mainland. Owned by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust , Looe Island has unique flora and compelling history.

Back in town, visit smuggling pubs, the Old Guildhall Museum and Gaol and a variety of independent shops.

Here’s my full guide to visiting Looe

How to get there: Looe is easily drivable from Plymouth or other parts of Devon and East Cornwall, but you could also take the train to Liskeard and then hop on the pretty branch line that extends down to the coastal town.

34. The Rame Peninsula

Ahh, the Rame Peninsula . I almost don’t want to talk about this spectacular part of Cornwall too much; as its solitude and isolation is what makes it so special. But, there’s no way I can leave it off this best places to visit in Cornwall list, as it’s one of my favourites!

Known as “forgotten Cornwall”, the Rame Peninsula sits nestled in the far southeast segment of the region. It’s a little trickier to get to than other spots on this list, which lends to its isolation.

The villages of Cawsand and Kingsand have charming beaches and beautiful historic buildings. You can hike from here to Rame Head, the terminus of the peninsula, or over to Cremyll and Mount Edgecumbe , which sits just opposite Plymouth .

How to get there: Most visitors drive, but you can take a boat from Royal William Yard in Plymouth to Cremyll throughout the year; and in the summer, there’s a direct boat service to Cawsand and Kingsand.

35. Launceston

The old county town of Cornwall, Launceston is only just over the Tamar from Devon but it has a very strong Cornish spirit and is a great place to learn about the Duchy’s Celtic origins.

Do this by visiting Launceston Castle , one of Cornwall’s Norman fortifications, which dates all the way back to the 11th century.

Find charming independent shops and a historic church in Launceston High Street and take in the wonderful Tamar scenery.

Launceston is situated on the two castles route which runs from Okehampton . It’s also close to places like Gunnislake and Calstock on the Tamar Valley , a beautiful riverside walking trail that marks the border between Cornwall and Devon.

Here’s my full guide to Launceston

How to get there: Conveniently located just off the A30, Launceston is the perfect stopover for anyone driving into Cornwall.

Amazing places to go on holiday in Cornwall!

Beaches, Celtic history, mining heritage, rich food, brooding moorland… there are so many reasons to visit Cornwall .

With this guide, you’ll be able to discern which place is most suitable for you and your travel group – and start booking your accommodation!

I have in-depth articles on most of these destinations on my Cornwall travel blogs section of this website. If you have any specific questions, feel free to reach out on Instagram !

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Very informative and helpful for planning my 1st visit to Cornwall, thanks.

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9 Utterly Amazing Places To Visit In Cornwall

From stunning beaches and great restaurants, to historic country mansions, these are the best places to visit in cornwall..

Cornwall is one of England’s top holiday destinations for a reason! It has some of the country’s best beaches, great restaurants and a variety of things to do. Places like Newquay, Padstow and St Ives have been popular for a long time, but the whole county has experienced a boom over the last few years.

All of a sudden, holidays in Spain were swapped for beach breaks in Cornish villages, and many discovered just how amazing this region is for travel.

Whether you’re interested in water sports, food, walking the South West Coast Path or history, there’s something for you in Cornwall. So, it’s time to dive into this pretty region in the south west of England, and share our favourite nine places to visit in Cornwall.

9 Amazing Places To Visit In Cornwall

There are only a few places in England that attract visitors purely for food… Whitstable, Ludlow, perhaps a few spots in the Lake District and Padstow in Cornwall.

This town is renowned for its food scene, with two of the biggest names in England’s culinary world, Paul Ainsworth and Rick Stein, owning restaurants here. It’s one of our favourite places to visit in Cornwall as it will always satisfy our stomachs. Tuck into the freshest fish and chips around at Stein’s chippy by the harbour, or book in for Michelin starred cuisine at Paul Ainsworth At No.6. You won’t be disappointed.

Padstow is filled with charm too, with its pretty harbour, candy-coloured houses and great views from the headland looking out to Rock. Be warned, it gets extremely busy in peak summer so our tip would be to visit in spring or autumn. You’ll still be able to enjoy lovely walks and great food, without the worries of finding parking or getting a reservation.

Read more: 13 Best Places To Eat In Padstow

Minack Theatre

If you’re looking for a cultural experience on your trip to Cornwall, you simply have to book tickets to a show at the Minack Theatre . This spectacular open-air granite amphitheatre is carved right into the cliffs above Porthcurno Beach. That means the backdrop to every show is the sea! It’s located just four miles from Land’s End and hosts over 200 live performances each year, including operas, plays and musicals.

One of the most popular towns in Cornwall, Newquay boasts some of the best surf in the country. No matter what the season or weather, if you head to Fistral Beach you’ll see some brave surfers catching some waves.

Newquay is a great option for family holidays as there is quite a lot to in the town. You could enjoy some beach time, try your hand at crazy golf, win in the arcades, relax in a cute café or explore the independent shops.

If you’re looking for accommodation in Newquay or the north coast of Cornwall, I’d recommend taking a look at Classic Cottages . From apartments by the beach to large houses with sea views, there’s something to fit every taste and budget.

Lanhydrock House and Garden

If your idea of a great day out is to wander around a spectacular National Trust property or some landscaped gardens, you simply have to book a ticket to Lanhydrock . The country house resembles an impressive castle and is set amongst 1,000 acres of woodland.

Read more: 8 National Trust Properties in Cornwall

Inside you can take a tour of dining rooms, a billiards room, regal bedrooms and kitchens and servants’ quarters. Meanwhile, head outside to see the vast landscaped gardens, which are famous for the herbaceous borders and tulip displays.

Lanhydrock House is located close to Bodmin, so you could combine your visit with a walk around Bodmin Moor (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) or visit the town’s famous jail.

Kynance Cove

If you’ve ever seen photos of Cornwall with bright blue water and intriguing rock formations, it was probably taken at Kynance Cove. This pretty spot on Cornwall’s south coast is just as beautiful as in the photos!  

Time your visit for low tide and you’ll be able to wander along the pristine sand to see the rocks close up, as well as several caves and rock pools. This is another popular spot, so we’d recommend visiting first thing in the morning to beat the crowds.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

One of the best places to visit in Cornwall for those with green fingers, The Lost Gardens of Heligan cover 200 acres and are home to numerous plant species you won’t see elsewhere.  The gardens are particularly famous for its collection of camellias, ferns and rhododendrons, and include areas including a sub-tropical jungle, crystal grotto and ancient woodlands.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan are located a short drive from one of Cornwall’s prettiest fishing villages, Mevagissey, which also happens to be home to one of the county’s most famous model railways .

St Ives offers the best of Cornwall in one location. Love food? There are several great restaurants and pubs dotted throughout this quaint town. Enjoy art? Visit the Tate St Ives or the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden for a modern look at the world. Craving beach time? The sand here is some of the whitest in Cornwall.

This north Cornwall town also has plenty of beautiful coastal cottages and apartments to pick from. I’d recommend looking at the Morwenstow apartments – several stylish accommodation options all offering spectacular sea views over Porthminster beach, St Ives harbour and beyond.

This is also one of the prettiest parts of the South West Coast Path, so if you’re an avid walker you’ll be sure to enjoy lots of fresh sea air on your visit!  

St Michael’s Mount

Fancy visiting a magical tidal island during your trip? St Michael’s Mount is one of our favourite places to visit in Cornwall as it’s so unique. You can reach the island by walking across the causeway at low tide.

Once there, head to the historic 12th century castle, explore the small village or grab a drink at the pub. There’s nowhere quite like it in England, so it’s one spot you just can’t miss!

This traditional fishing village has a minute centre laced with skinny streets and a small but perfect harbour. You might recognise it from TV series including Doc Martin and Poldark too. It has all the charm you’d expect from a Cornish seaside town, with ice cream stands, pasty stores and gift shops.

Along with Padstow, it’s one of the best places to visit in Cornwall for foodies. Top chef Nathan Outlaw has two restaurants in the village: Outlaw’s New Road and Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen. Both celebrate Cornwall’s fresh produce, so you know they’ll be worth visiting!

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these amazing places to visit in Cornwall. If you’re planning your trip, definitely read our Cornwall road trip itinerary , 21 fun facts about Cornwall , the prettiest National Trust houses in Cornwall and the best places to eat in Padstow . We adore Cornwall so it’s one of the most written about counties on our site!

The Ultimate Cornwall Trip Planner

Planning a holiday in Cornwall? These handy travel guides will help you decide where to stay, what to do and where to eat on your trip.

The Best Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary + Tips

Planning a Cornwall road trip? From beaches and great restaurants, to interesting attractions, this route takes in the best of the county.

Ultimate Cornwall Travel Guides - Tips, Itineraries + More

Thinking of visiting Cornwall? These helpful Cornwall travel guides cover everything from where to stay and what to do, to the best restaurants.

11 Amazing Luxury Hotels in Cornwall

Planning a trip to the Cornish coast or countryside? This guide to the best luxury hotels in Cornwall will help you decide where to stay.

8 National Trust Houses In Cornwall You Have To Visit

These National Trust houses in Cornwall are well worth a visit. Find out all you need to know about visiting Trerice, Lanhydrock, Cotehele Manor and more.

19 Best Art Galleries in Cornwall

From world-famous artworks and quality crafts, to modern pottery and hip graphics, these are the 19 best art galleries in Cornwall.

8 Best Glamping Sites in Cornwall, England

Are you looking for the best glamping sites in Cornwall? From wooden cabins with hot tubs to shepherd’s huts, this is where to glamp in Cornwall.

13 Best Places To Eat In Padstow, Cornwall

The best places to eat in Padstow include Michelin-starred gourmet cuisine, fresh seafood, Italian delicacies and classic fish and chips.

21 Fun Facts About Cornwall, England

How big was the world’s largest pasty? Where is Europe’s second largest redwood forest? Read these fun facts about Cornwall to find out now.

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Things to do in Cornwall

Cornwall offers a treasure trove of activities. Try thrilling water sports, explore historical landmarks, and wander picturesque gardens. Unwind on sandy beaches, make memories at the family attractions, and join guided tours to uncover the secrets of Cornwall. Click here to read more or see results below.

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Discover your Cornwall

Long sandy beaches, hidden coves, rugged moorland, quaint fishing villages, deep wooded valleys, bustling seaside resorts, industrial heritage, rocky headlands, colourful gardens, idyllic rivers and a bijou city, Cornwall has a bit of everything for those who want to explore.

Everything you need to know to plan your perfect Cornish getaway.

Spoilt for choice!

St Ives alone has five wonderful beaches, with both Porthminster and Porthmeor being awarded Blue Flags in 2022. Across the bay you will find three miles of golden sand stretching north from the Hayle Estuary. Then there's Porthtowan and Portreath just up the coast...

Sennen Cove right down near Land's End is another popular stretch both with surfers and families, whilst Mount's Bay provides endless walking and is often home to kite surfers.

There's also countless small secret coves, ideal for hiding away in, we would tell you where they are, but they wouldn't be secret then!

Yes... loads!

The mild climate caused by the Gulf steam means the south side of Cornwall has some fantatstic gardens to visit. Perhaps the best known are the Lost Gardens of Heligan near Mevagissey. Come in the spring and be blown away by the colours...

Down near Falmouth there's Trebah and Glendurgan, sitting side by side and running down valleys to the Helford Passage, there a must if your in that area.

Smaller gardens such as Pinetum Park and the Hidden Garden are on the outskirts of St Austell. as is the Eden Project, not technically a garden, more a environmental wonderland!

And if you're in the far east of Cornwall, a visit to Mt Edgcumbe Country Park should be on your list, and allow a day to do the place justice. The formal gardens are amazing, and then there's the deerpark and all the rest of the surrounding countryside.

Dogs are restricted on the designated beaches at the times listed below Cornwall Council enforces restrictions at the following beaches which are all part of a Public Spaces Protection Order. Other privately owned beaches may have their own local restrictions in force.

Please note: Blue Flag and Seaside Award beaches have longer restrictions due to the requirements of the Award status. In addition there are three protected wildlife areas that are subject to individual restrictions.

Often, and quite literally, bypassed, mid Cornwall is overlooked by visitors who are understandably seeking coastal charms. Next time, however, pull over, stop for a while and allow yourself to be pleasantly surprised by the pastoral beauty of this underrated area… There's still plenty of pretty villages, lots of heritage, tucked away attractions and Cornwall's only city, Truro.

The A30 runs down through the centre of Cornwall, leaving the M5 at Exeter. It enters Cornwall at Launceston, crosses Bodmin Moor and passes Bodmin. Once past there roads branch off to St Austell and Newquay and a little further on, Truro.

At the present time (June 2023) work is still on-going to dual a long stretch of the A30 heading west towards Redruth and Camborne. This will hopefully do away with summer traffic jams as you head towards the far west, St Ives and Penzance.

The A30 continues past Penzance all the way to Lands's End.

Leaving Exeter, the other major road into Cornwall is the A38. This crosses the Tamar Bridge at Plymouth and serves the towns and villages of south-east Cornwall before terminating at Bodmin where it joins the A30.

Coming down the North Coast, the A39 (also known as the Atlantic Highway) is good for access to Bude, Wadebridge and Padstow, and all the lovely north coast beaches. It continues onto Truro and eventually Falmouth.

The A390 is the main road serving St Austell, running from Tavistock in Devon, across the Tamar at Gunnislake and onto Liskeard. From St Austell it continues down to Truro.

Running north. and adjacent to the Devon/Cornwall border, the A388 runs from Saltash up to Launceston.

The A94 runs from Falmouth to Penzance via Helston where the A3083 runs down to Lizard Point.

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The 14 best things to do in Cornwall

From kid-friendly activities to rocky beaches and more, here are the best things to do in Cornwall

There's a lot more to Cornwall than just sandy beaches, windswept coastlines and pasties. As well as the obvious water sports like surfing and kayaking (both very fun), there are also enchanted gardens, mysterious castles and cliffside theatres to explore, all set within Cornwall's magnificent scenery. 

Cornwall is big, and you’ll want to drive ideally, so we’d suggest three nights minimum for your stay to try and cram it all in. But it’s important to choose the right area for what you’re after, too. W e’ve included bits from all over the county to help you choose where to go. From the kid-friendly to the budget-friendly, here are the best things to do in Cornwall. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall 🏕️ The best campsites in Cornwall 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Cornwall 🏖️ The best beaches in Cornwall

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Best things to do in Cornwall

1.  Minack Theatre

What is it? Quite possibly the most attractive open-air theatre in the UK, carved into a massive lump of rock and ending with the sea.

Why go? The Minack Theatre opened in the 30s after Rowena Cade thought this piece of cliff would make a good setting for people to perform 'The Tempest'. No doubt it does, with the dramatic drop to the sea and seating eked out of granite. You can now see more than this one Shakespeare play here, with performances of all kinds staged throughout the summer months.

2.  Surfing

What is it? Only one of the coolest sports around, duh. 

Why go? Cornwall has some of the best surfing beaches in the world, and they're stunning too. Head to the coves along the north coast to catch a ride on some the UK's best waves. Fistral, Watergate Bay, Godrevy and Gwithian are all great shouts for getting involved in some gnarly surf. 

3.  St Michael’s Mount

What is it?  Tiny, rocky island connected to the land at low tide. Home to the St Aubyn family for generations, the mount has a castle, a chapel, and lovely gardens.

Why go?  There’s something so attractively mystical about St Michael’s Mount. Situated just off the south coast of Cornwall, this crop of rocks is accessible via a causeway when the tide is low but not when the tide is high. So like the White Rabbit, you mustn’t be late. It’s possible to combine visiting this National Trust-owned hideaway with a walk along the South West coastal path to nearby Penzance. Then celebrate with a scone.

4.  Eden Project

What is it?  Two giant biomes that look like oversized footballs but actually contain a paradise of plants and the world’s largest indoor rainforest.

Why go?  The Eden Project is one of those ultra-famous tourist attractions that are actually well-worth going to because it’s as good as they say it is (possibly better). The two main areas are the Rainforest and Mediterranean biomes, and they’ve also got huge outdoor gardens to explore. Just don’t eat any apples or get chatting to a snake.

5.  The National Lobster Hatchery

What is it?  Marine conservation charity quietly helping to change the world one lobster at a time.

Why go?  Nowadays, people mostly associate Padstow with celeb seafood chef Rick Stein, but before you sit down to a plate of Grade A seafood on an evening, stop for a moment to consider the lobster. The National Lobster Hatchery is a lesser-known tourist attraction in Cornwall, letting you learn all about these pincer-wielding beasts and, crucially, how we can make fishing for them sustainable and non-damaging.

6.  Tate St Ives

What is it?  Award-winning, beachside branch of Tate capitalising on the Cornish town’s history as a hangout for artists. Really, really good artists.

Why go?  This westerly outpost of Tate is something special because it is simultaneously local and global. The unique quality of light has long dragged generations of artists to St Ives, and visitors to the gallery can admire it pouring through the glass front of this stunning building.

7.  King Arthur tour

What is it?  A two-day tour of Cornwall taking in Tintagel Castle, the moors, and generally getting you acquainted with the area’s famous ancient monarch.

Why go?  Long before tourists started coming to Cornwall for surfing and cream teas, this far reach of England was the focal point of the King Arthur legends. The stories told about those times are literally part of the landscape, whether that’s Merlin’s cave or Tintagel castle.

8.  Lost Gardens of Heligan

What is it?  Magnificent botanic gardens once lost and now found. The story, the vision and, of course, the plants are all worth admiring here.

Why go?  When Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote 'The Secret Garden', she couldn't have had any idea that Britain would one day be home to a real secret garden rescued from neglect and restored to health. Well, that is exactly what The Lost Gardens of Heligan are. The other heart-warming thing about this place is the project celebrates not the lords and ladies who owned the Heligan estate but the ordinary, green-fingered men who gardened.

9.  Pendennis Castle

What is it?  Tudor fort made by Henry VIII that played its part in battle after battle. Located near Falmouth.

Why go?  People love a good trip around a rural stronghold, and Pendennis Castle (designed for genuine defensive reasons, not for banquets) has an especially interesting history. It was constructed for Henry VIII but was still being used for military operations in World War II. Take in the story of this remarkable place and then head to Falmouth for lunch.

10.  Poldark tour

What is it?  A tour around Truro and the nearby area based on the television series that got everyone heavy breathing over a man with his shirt off/the Cornish landscape.

Why go?  Obviously, you just watched 'Poldark' for the epic shots of the Cornish coast and the historically accurate costumes. Right? Hmmm… We are not here to judge. Whatever your reasoning for wanting to be intimately acquainted with Ross Poldark, you can explore his version of Cornwall, starting with Truro harbour and trundling along the coast.

11.  Trebah

What is it? Sub-tropical gardens where visitors can roam around the rhododendrons, hop by the hydrangeas and see the sea.

Why go? Yes, it’s another set of gardens. Which might sound like something only your granny would want as the focal point of a holiday. But ignore Cornwall’s wealth of botanic bounty at your peril. You’d need a heart of stone to not appreciate the beauty of Trebah’s mass-upon-mass of blooming rhododendrons in the spring. Plus, you can head straight to the beach afterwards.

12.  Kayaking

What is it?  Wholesome, healthy and hearty entertainment paddling along the Fowey estuary (and stopping for a pub lunch or two).  

Why go?  As much as Cornwall is about expansive moors and wind-swept beaches, it’s also about water – maybe even more so. If water sports are your thing (and you’ll need some previous experience for this), consider exploring Cornwall via kayak. Fill your lungs with fresh air, get your arm muscles aching and then debrief over proper pub food.

13.  The National Maritime Museum

What is it?  An expensive museum all about sailing, fishing and marine life, set on the water in Falmouth's beautiful harbour. 

Why go? See a diver washing the windows or a school of wild fish swimming at the famous below-sea-level window. It's the chance to explore real sailing vessels, historic fishing gear and the wonder of marine life over the museum's five floors and 15 galleries. 

14.  Port Isaac (Doc Martin)

What is it?  A trip around the fishing village of Port Isaac that’s tailored to the whims of Doc Martin fans.

Why go?  Port Isaac is now most famous as the location of the television series Doc Martin. It’s also a lovely place in its own right, located on the north coast not far from St Endellion. This tour combines all you need to know about Doc Martin with the history of the area.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall, UK (+ Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2023

Dotted with pretty villages and offering breathtaking vistas at almost every turn, Cornwall is one of the most picturesque regions of the UK. Located in southwestern England, Cornwall is also home to some of the nicest coastal areas in the country, giving part of the region the name of the English Riviera.

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Cornwall that it can be hard to narrow down your options and choose where to go… So we asked our UK writer, Christine, who recently spent a longer vacation in Cornwall, to give our readers an overview of the very best places to see and things to do in Cornwall .

In this article, she shares her absolute favorite Cornish attractions, which allow you to experience the history, natural beauty, and fascinating culture of this captivating corner of England. Find out!

Good to know: To help you plan your trip to Cornwall, we also created a map indicating all the best Cornwall attractions and nice places to see mentioned in this article. In addition, for every place on our list, we include some practical tips for your visit. At the bottom of this article, you can find more suggestions for nice places to see in Cornwall if you have more time, as well as the best Cornwall tours . Read on!

TIP: If you are looking for hotel recommendations, please see our separate guide to the best places to stay in Cornwall .

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Here are the best places to visit in Cornwall:

1. Saint Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s Mount is a unique little island across the water from the town of Marazion. If anything, it could be compared to the famous Mont St Michel in France and is definitely one of the must-see places in Cornwall!

Surrounded by ancient myths and legends, the rocky island is tidal. This means that it’s possible to access St Michael’s Mount by foot via a causeway from Marazion at certain times of the day. At other times, there is an island boat available to take you back and forth.

St Michael’s Mount is most famous for its 12th-century castle, which has been inhabited from 1650 to the current day by the St Aubyn family. But whilst the historic castle is well worth visiting – and affords you wonderful views of Mount’s Bay – there is lots more to explore, including the bustling village, a chapel, quaint eateries, and sub-tropical gardens. In the summer, the 30 live-in islanders sometimes put on special events, such as storytime for children.

How much time do you need: Allow yourself at least half a day, but preferably a full day to see everything the island has to offer. In addition, be sure to allow time to explore Marazion town as well. With its clean sandy beaches and beautiful gardens bursting with rare plants and trees, it’s a nice destination in itself.

TIP: The climb up to the castle is steep and rocky and the island has many cobbled paths with no handrails, so it can be difficult to manage for those with walking difficulties. Sensible shoes are a must!

The idyllic town of St Ives is located on a narrow peninsula in the Celtic sea. It has some of the best beaches in the world! In fact, there are four beaches within walking distance of the town, with Porthmeor being especially popular with surfers.

The scenic fishing harbor is surrounded by a maze of quaint, cobbled streets, lined with fisherman’s cottages and local shops. But there is more to St. Ives than its stunning scenery! The town has been home to some of the world’s best sculptors and artists and now has a thriving art scene. Various galleries and studios are dotted throughout the town and St Ives even has its own Tate Gallery on the seafront.

If you are a lover of good food then you will appreciate the world-class dining on offer here, with an emphasis – of course – on freshly caught seafood.

How much time do you need: It’s possible to see the best of St Ives in one day. But it’s worth spending 2 or 3 days to make the most of the beaches, the great shopping, and the town’s numerous museums.

TIP: A great way to appreciate the beauty of St Ives is from the water! You can take a boat trip from St Ives to Seal Island, which will give you great views of the town and the chance to visit the rocky home of a colony of Grey Atlantic Seals.

3. Land’s End & Scenic Drive from St Ives

Land’s End is an iconic Cornish attraction, marking Cornwall’s westernmost point and offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the many places in Cornwall where you can experience nature in all her finery, from the waves crashing against the granite to the wind whipping through your hair as you enjoy rugged clifftop walks.

It is the home of the famous Land’s End sign , which marks the distance to various points including New York and John O’ Groats. Sadly, though, you now have to pay to be photographed standing beneath the sign (although you do get to have it personalized with your family name and the date). The entire area has become heavily commercialized recently, so it does not quite have the wild and rugged feel you may expect in certain areas. Nevertheless, it is still pretty cool to stand at England’s closest point to the US and to admire the awesome view of the Atlantic!

Just driving to Land’s End from St Ives is one of the best things you can do in Cornwall and makes a visit here more than worthwhile! The views along this scenic drive are amazing and there’s a lot to see along the way! Don’t miss Mên-an-Tol – this ancient Bronze Age site has a rare stone with a hole that’s believed to have some magical curing powers!

How much time do you need: Unless you plan to spend time shopping or visiting the small theme park, you really only need an hour or two to see Land’s End. However, in combination with the scenic drive and many nice stops along the way, you could make a nice day trip visiting the area.

TIP: Parking is very expensive At Land’s End. The best option is to park at nearby Sennen Cove instead and walk the one-mile coastal path. You will see a shipwreck along the route and may even spot some dolphins frolicking in the water! Another option is parking at Porthgwarra and walking the 3.6 miles coastal path from there. This will take much longer, but the scenery is amazing as well! Don’t miss Enys Dodnan Arch. But even if you drive straight to Land’s End, be sure to explore (part of) the coastal paths as well!

4. The Lizard & Kynance Cove

The Lizard Peninsula on Cornwall’s south coast is the most southerly point of the UK mainland. With only 2 roads in and out, it is largely undeveloped and has some of the most fascinating geology in the country. It’s also teeming with wildlife, particularly bird and marine life. If you’re lucky you can see dolphins, seals, and occasionally even whales!

Lizard is also home to a variety of charming villages and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and secret coves. The most stunning of all is Kynance Cove , on the Lizard’s west side. Accessible via a 2-mile coastal walk, Kynance Cove is one of the most photographed and painted areas in Cornwall. When you visit, you’ll see why!

Pristine white sands contrast beautifully with the reds and greens of the serpentine rock stacks, all set against stunning turquoise waters. When the tide is out, you are free to explore the Cove’s rock pools and caves, with names like ‘The Drawing Room’ and ‘The Parlour’.

How much time do you need: Allow yourself 1 to 2 days to fully explore The Lizard and its many coves.

TIP: Kynance Cove is particularly busy – especially in the summer – so arrive early or visit slightly out of season to avoid the crowds. The descent to the beach is steep and rocky, so wear sensible footwear and be sure to check tide times to make sure that you will be able to safely access the caves.

5. Port Isaac

Located on Cornwall’s Atlantic northern coast is the beautiful 14th-century fishing village of Port Isaac . It is everything that you would imagine a traditional Cornish village to be, with slate-fronted white-washed cottages and narrow winding streets, all leading down to the picturesque harbor.

There’s a little something of everything to enjoy in Port Isaac! Many of its buildings are important – either architecturally or historically – and it has several claims to fame. It is the setting for the UK’s popular TV show Doc Martin and has been used as the location for many other TV and film projects. In fact, if you are a Doc Martin fan, you can opt for this popular walking tour of the filming locations !

Port Isaac is still an active fishing port. If you visit in the summer, you can also take fishing trips or scenic boat tours from the harbor.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Beauty and also a Heritage Coast area, there are lots of lovely walks to be had, either along the beach with its numerous rock pools, or further inland. But most popular of all is the village itself, which has lots of charming cafes and restaurants and one of Britain’s narrowest thoroughfares – the aptly named ‘Squeezy Belly Alley’.

How much time do you need: You can easily explore the village in a few hours. If you go walking or take a boat tour, count one day.

TIP: You can get the best views of the harbor from the main car park, which is the first thing you come to as you enter the village. From there it’s quite a steep walk down to the village – which means a steep walk back up! There is a shuttle taxi available, but you might have a long wait at busy times.

6. Porthcurno & The Minack Theatre

Best known for its stunning beaches and the famous The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno is one more of the must-see places in Cornwall.

One of the most popular beaches here is the stunning Porthcurno Beach . This award-winning beach, with its soft white sand and sparkling turquoise waters, is located in western Cornwall, in the corner of Porthcurno Bay. Sheltered by lofty cliffs on either side, Porthcurno Beach is great for families. It is fairly easy to get to via a wide footpath that slopes down gently from the car park above. And it even has its own little stream running along one side, which is perfect for paddling! Fans of the UK’s TV adaptation of Poldark will recognize this beach as the setting for Nampara Cove, where Ross and Demelza were filmed walking hand in hand.

In addition, there are several other lesser-known beaches and stunning coastal paths from where you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Be sure to visit the famous Minack Theatre on the cliffs above. This open-air venue gives you exceptional views of the Bay, right across to the Lizard, and hosts live performances from May to September. When there is no show, you can explore this open-air theatre to the fullest. At the moment, advance bookings are essential; see their website for more information.

The area is also home to the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum , where you can learn all about the important role that Cornwall played in the development of global communications.

How much time do you need: Allow half a day to a day to see all that Porthcurno has to offer.

TIP: Make sure you bring coins with you to pay for parking – the parking machines at Porthcurno Car Park are not equipped for card payments yet. Parking is free in the low season.

7. Tintagel Castle

Tintangel Castle is thought to be the birthplace of King Arthur, the legendary British King. This is also one of the best places to visit in Cornwall – with a wonderful location set high on the cliffs of the rugged North Cornwall coast. The views are great, the ruins are fun to explore, and a visit here is fun for the whole family!

Since recently, the two parts of the castle that are set on different cliffs have been reconnected by Tintagel Castle Bridge . A walk on this impressive bridge not only gives you the chance to experience the area as it was in medieval times but also offers some amazing views of the coastline.

Don’t miss King Arthur’s Statue and also the little beach below the castle and Merlin’s Cave , one of Tintagel’s best-kept secrets. The walk down is quite steep, but they also have a ‘shuttle’ that can bring you down and up.

TIP: Before you visit the castle, head to King Arthur’s Great Halls in Tintagel. It’s a great place to learn more about the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the round table. Open from March to October.

How much time do you need: Count at least 2-3 hours for a visit to the castle, but you can easily spend more than half a day here. For more information and opening times, please see their website .

Good to know: Prepare for lots of walking. Sensible shoes are a must. It can also be quite windy here, so dress warm.

TIP: St Nectan’s Glen Waterfalls nearby are also worth a visit.

8. Polperro

With so many beautiful spots all over Cornwall, it can be hard to pick the most picturesque. Nevertheless, most visitors to Polperro will agree that it is one of the prettiest villages in the county. Its quaint fisherman’s cottages and traffic-free, winding streets are set along the sides of a cliff ravine on Cornwall’s south coast.

The village is centered around a peaceful fishing cove filled with colorful boats. The area has a rich history of shipwrecks and smuggling and you can see fascinating features in the village, including Roman and Saxon bridges.

Polperro has a small sandy beach and its own tidal sea pool which you can access via a steep climb down the cliff if you’re feeling adventurous. The best view of the village is definitely from the water and you can easily arrange either a pleasure cruise or a fishing cruise directly from the quay. If you’re traveling with children, don’t miss the Museum of Smuggling (aka Harbour Museum ) and the Polperro Model Village with its very own model railway.

How much time do you need: Plan to spend a full day in Polperro. This will give you time to visit the main attractions, take a cruise, and enjoy the delicious local food available at the village’s eateries.

TIP: Polperro hosts lots of seasonal events, so be sure to check ahead if there are any that might coincide with your visit. One of the most popular is the Music and Arts Festival in June, which includes a colorful carnival and the lighting of the solstice bonfire.

The North Cornwall fishing port of Padstow has lots to offer its visitors! Most popular of all is the harbor itself, bustling with people and a great place to watch the world go by. There is a variety of great boat tours here. So whether you want to do a little sightseeing from the water, catch some fish, or get a better view of the area’s varied marine and birdlife, you will find a boat tour to suit.

One of Padstow’s most popular features is the stunning Camel Trail . 17 miles long and following the course of the River Camel along the route of the former North Cornwall Railway, the Camel Trail gives you the perfect opportunity to cycle through some of the most beautiful scenery in the county. There are no steep inclines and the Trail meets virtually no traffic, so it is ideal for the whole family.

Whilst in Padstow, be sure to hop aboard the Black Tor Ferry and take the 5 minute trip to Rock . Holiday spot for the Royals, it’s a favorite with the rich and famous and has even been dubbed Britain’s Saint-Tropez!

How much time do you need: Allow 1 to 2 days, particularly if you plan to cycle the Trail (you can rent a bicycle in Padstow for the day).

TIP: Celebrity chef Rick Stein has a restaurant, cafe, and several shops in Padstow. His specialty is seafood, so a fish and chip dinner at his restaurant is a treat not to be missed!

10. St. Austell, Mevagissey & The Lost Gardens of Heligan

St. Austell is Cornwall’s largest town, and whilst the town itself has few attractions, it makes a great base from which to visit the nearby fishing village of Mevagissey .

In a county dotted with beautiful fishing villages, Mevagissey is considered by many to be the loveliest of them all! Brightly colored houses nestle against the steep hillside, whilst the waters of the harbor are shallow and turquoise.

Just 15 minutes by road from the center of St. Austell are the Lost Gardens of Heligan , so named because they were hidden by brambles from the end of the First World War, all the way up to 1990 when they were rediscovered. Spread over 200 acres, this is Europe’s largest garden restoration project. It includes four beautiful walled gardens, along with the incredible living sculpture the Mud Maid. The Lost Gardens of Heligan have an other-wordly feel to them and it’s easy to spend a few hours exploring all the different zones and woodland. For opening times and practical info, please check their website .

How much time do you need: Allow 1-2 days to see Mevagissey and the Lost Gardens of Heligan. If you have time, it’s also worth visiting St. Austell’s main port, Charlestown, where you will often spot old sailing ships.

TIP: As you enter St. Austell, be sure to look out for the ‘ Cornish Alps ‘ surrounding it. These strange, conical white-topped mounds are actually products of the area’s china clay pits, which were the backbone of St. Austell’s industry for many years.

11. Eden Project

Did you know that Cornwall is home to the 8th wonder of the world? Well, that may not be officially true, but nevertheless, it’s a compliment often paid to the ambitious Eden Project in Bodelva, just a few miles from St. Austell!

This vast attraction could probably be best described as a sort of botanical garden, but it’s so much more than that! It houses the world’s largest captive rainforest in a magnificent ‘biome’. Here, you can experience tropical sights and smells and even take a walk on a canopy walkway above the treetops! Although the Rainforest Biome is the Eden Project’s largest and most popular feature, there is lots more to see and do here. The 30-acre Outdoor Garden is filled with bobbing sunflowers and a second biome focuses on the Mediterranean and all of its fabulous flora.

The purpose of the Eden Project is mainly educational – for children and adults alike. There are various workshops aimed at all age groups, along with the opportunity to learn about the relationship between the plant world and mankind. Kids in particular will enjoy learning about the tropical plants that are used to produce some of the objects they see and use every day!

How much time do you need: Aim to spend a full day here. There is plenty to see and do and there are some nice cafes where you can get lunch or snacks.

TIP: The Project is quite expensive to visit. So to make the most of your day, try to visit in good weather, which will allow you to enjoy the outdoor exhibits as much as the indoor ones. Don’t forget your sunscreen, as there is little sun protection anywhere. For practical info and opening times, please see their website .

12. Falmouth

Located in a sheltered bay on Cornwall’s south coast, Falmouth was recently named Britain’s best coastal town. Perfect for exploring on foot, Falmouth is divided into two sides. On one side you can see the lovely working harbor and docks. You can learn more about them in the 12 galleries of the town’s impressive National Maritime Museum . On the other side, you’ll find two stunning sandy beaches. The best for swimming (and closest to town) is Gyllngvase Beach , with its powdery soft sand and clear waters.

The two sides of Falmouth are divided by a grassy headland, on which sits the Pendennis Castle , built by King Henry VIII in the 16th century. As you stroll through town admiring the old architecture, look out for Jacobs Ladder . This 111 step granite stairway leads up from the Moor – Falmouth’s main square. It may sound Biblical, but it was actually named after the local businessman who built it as a shortcut between his home and his business premises.

How much time do you need: Allow one full day to explore Falmouth.

TIP: Falmouth regularly hosts festivals, celebrating everything from oysters to beer! See if you can plan your visit to coincide with a festival based around something you enjoy!

Whilst Cornwall’s coastal resorts tend to be among the most popular, an area not to be missed – Bodmin – is several miles inland. Formerly the county town of Cornwall, Bodmin is steeped in history and there are lots of interesting buildings to explore, including a 15th-century church, two museums, and gorgeous stately homes.

Head to the town center to hop aboard a steam train at the Great Western Railway Station at Bodmin Central. This is a great way to explore the surrounding area! You can also take a trip back in time and learn more about the town’s sinister history of crime and punishment with a tour of its courtrooms and the notorious Bodmin Jail , the site of numerous public hangings.

Aside from its historic interest, the area east of Bodmin – known as Bodmin Moor – is a designated Area of Natural Beauty. With miles of walking trails, this remote and sweeping moor is dotted with high granite boulders, ancient oak trees, and fascinating stone circles. It is easy to see why the novelist Daphne du Maurier was so inspired by this landscape! After a walk on the moor, you can enjoy a pint at the Jamaica Inn, which was immortalized in her novel of the same name.

Also the nearby Lanhydrock estate with an impressive Victorian country house and gardens is well worth visiting here!

How much time do you need: You could easily spend 2 full days exploring Bodmin town and the natural beauty of the local area. If you just visit the main attractions in town, count half a day.

TIP: It is well worth staying in the area overnight. Bodmin Moor was awarded Dark Sky Landscape status because of its efforts to reduce light pollution. This means that its exceptionally dark skies offer excellent opportunities for stargazing!

14. Fistral Beach, Newquay

Located on Cornwall’s north coast, Newquay is one of the county’s most popular seaside towns. But what makes it extra special is its amazing Fistral Beach ! This straight, sandy beach is over 800 yards long, with high cliffs behind it, rolling dunes, and numerous rock pools perfect for crabbing.

Fistral Beach’s main attraction, though, is its surf! Bounded by two headlands, powerful waves are funneled into the west-facing beach, making Fistral one of the top surfing destinations in the world. If you want to indulge in a spot of surfing yourself, there are lots of places to hire equipment. And if learning to surf has always been on your bucket list, you can even book lessons here.

If you’re feeling less energetic, then it’s very easy (and lots of fun) to while away the hours just watching other people tackle the waves. The beach has wonderful facilities including a very good restaurant and cafe, along with a great atmosphere for the whole family to enjoy.

How much time do you need: You can easily spend anything from a few hours to a whole day here.

TIP: Although the beach is monitored by lifeguards, do check the tide times carefully as it is possible to be cut off from the main part of the beach when the tide comes in.

15. Mousehole

No visit to Cornwall would be complete without a visit to the charmingly named village of Mousehole on the south coast. No one is quite sure where the name actually came from, although some say it is connected to the huge cave located a few hundred yards along the coast.

Mousehole has rather a sad history – the village was completely burnt to the ground during the Anglo-Spanish War in 1595 and just one building survived. That building is now the Keigwin Arms pub, which has undergone quite a bit of restoration since!

The quaint village has narrow, winding streets with plenty of independent shops, galleries, and eateries, with many of the pretty cottages built from local Lamorna granite. One of the nicest features in Mousehole is its beach! Located in the sheltered part of the harbor, it is small, safe, and absolutely perfect for families with younger children. If you have time, be sure to take a walk along the coastal path to Lamorna – an absolutely stunning little cove at the end of a verdant valley, complete with a babbling stream!

How much time do you need: Allow half a day to a day for a relaxing visit here.

TIP: If visiting Mousehole by car, park on the outskirts and walk in. Parking on the narrow streets is very difficult. Better still, take a bus to the village from Penzance.

16. Cornwall Coast Path from Hartland Quay to Bude

While Hartland Devon Heritage Coast isn’t officially in Cornwall, it’s just at the county border. The coastal walk from Hartland Quay (in Devon) to Bude (in Cornwall) is well worth considering if you are looking for something nice to do in Cornwall a bit off the beaten path.

While the entire walk is quite strenuous and 15 miles long, you can also just walk a small part of the trail, e.g. up to Speke’s Mill Mouth Waterfall . Starting in Hartland Quay, head south along the Cornwall Coastal Path. The waterfall is just about 1 mile (20-30 min) walk and is well worth it.

This area is off the beaten path and much less visited than most other Cornwall attractions mentioned in this guide. If you are looking for nice coastal scenery without the crowds, check it out!

TIP: If you drive all the way to Hartland anyway, check out the Hartland Abbey as well!

More nice places to see in Cornwall

In addition to the most popular sights and Cornwall attractions mentioned above, there is so much more to see and do in this beautiful corner of England. Here are some more nice places to see in Cornwall if you have more time:

• National Trust – Trelissick Garden
• National Trust – Lanhydrock
• National Trust – Godrevy
• Helford Passage
• St Mawes Castle
• Trebah Garden
• Flambards Theme Park

As you can see, there is plenty to see and do in Cornwall to fill a few vacations. But if you are looking for the very best places, this list should help you see the best that the region has to offer.

Cornwall Tours

If you are looking for some nice Cornwall tours, here are some of the very best options:

• 1 day in Cornwall: West Cornwall Tour . This tour brings you to St. Michael’s Mount, Land’s End, and several other top spots.
• 2 days in Cornwall: King Arthur Tintagel and Boscastle Tour . This tour visits Tintagel Castle and the area around it, in combination with several other beautiful places in this area.
• 5 days Cornwall & Devon tour from London . Devon & Cornwall tour . This is the most popular tour of southern England. You get to see some of the main highlights of Cornwall and so many other beautiful places. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Cornwall – best towns & hotels for every vacation and every budget

More travel tips and inspiration for the UK:

• Cities: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Must-see in London: Top London Attractions & 1 Day in London & 2 Days London Itinerary
• Different London : Hidden Gems of London & Best Views in London
• Good to know: London Travel Tips & Best Areas to Stay in London
• Near London: Best Day Trips from London for Sightseeing
• With kids: London with Kids & Family-friendly Afternoon Tea in London
• Greenwich: Best Things to Do in Greenwich & Painted Hall
• Food: British Food: Dishes to Try in the UK
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1 Day in Manchester
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & Day Trip from London to Liverpool & The Beatles Liverpool
• Scotland: Isle of Skye & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Top Edinburgh Attractions & One Day in Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow
• Seaside: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Tips for Visiting Blackpool

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Dr david wood

Friday 21st of October 2022

I i like cornwall ? But i am stilling looking for unique experience its finding a restful hotel great food

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

Hi, I'm not quite sure I understand your question. Are you looking for a nice quiet hotel and good food? I'm sure that many hotels can offer that.

Sunday 16th of May 2021

Thank you for your lovely post. We will be local travellers also, so I will enjoy looking at your posts!!

Wednesday 19th of May 2021

Thanks for reading and enjoy exploring England this summer, Linda! There are so many nice places to see - a great place for local travel this year! :)

The Perfect 3 Days in Cornwall Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Cornwall is the southwesternmost county in England and is famed for its beautiful beaches, world-class surfing, and Cornish pasties. However, with a number of towns and cities in the county, it can be difficult to determine what to see and where to go if you’re planning a 3 days in Cornwall itinerary.

Cornwall is known to be the warmest area of England and has more sun year-round than virtually anywhere else in the country. With a culture distinct from elsewhere in England with strong Celtic roots, unique cuisine, incredible nature, beautiful beaches and fascinating history, Cornwall really makes for one of the best destinations to visit in the entirety of the country.

If you’re thinking of exploring this part of England, here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit, where to stay, how to get there and where to go in Cornwall!

Table of Contents

When to Visit Cornwall

Arguably the best time to visit Cornwall is either in the summer season of July to August if you are happy to endure the crowds in order to be able to fully enjoy the surf and the beach. Not that in the high season, it can be hard to find accommodation or even a spot in a car park due to crowds.

Or, alternatively, visiting in the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October should allow you to enjoy the beautiful coastal walks and towns in Cornwall with a fraction of the crowds that visit this region in summer.

Visiting Cornwall from November to April might not be the best time to go as the weather is the coldest and rainiest you will get all year. However, there are a number of advantages of travelling to this part of the world in the offseason.

Accommodation prices are surprisingly affordable and tourist crowds are virtually non-existent. The obvious disadvantage of travelling in the off-season is that it makes it hard to enjoy the beautiful coastline of the area.

Not only will you not be able to dip into the water but you may experience very strong winds, making it hard to enjoy some of the coastal paths and walks on offer in the southwest of England.

Regardless of when you decide to go, however, Cornwall is an area that should be on everyone’s English travel wishlist .

Getting To & Around Cornwall

There are a few options for travellers looking to get from Cornwall. While this article will focus on the best way to get to Cornwall from London, the pros and cons of each method are relevant to travelling from other parts of England . There are four main options to consider: train, bus, car or guided tour

There are trains to Cornwall from all over England with one of the most popular routes being to travel from London to Penzance in Cornwall. The journey takes just over 5 hours and there are several trains a day (there is also a night train available).

If you want to get to other destinations in Cornwall such as Newquay or St Ives then that will usually require at least one change of train from London, though there are some direct trains available.

When travelling by train in the UK, it is strongly recommended to book tickets in advance as you can get much better deals when compared to booking a day or two before travel. Click here to browse train schedules.

Travelling to Cornwall by bus from London means adding at least 3 hours onto your journey time. Both National Express and MegaBus run routes from London with direct routes available to towns in Cornwall such as Penzance, Newquay and St Ives.

Unless you’re travelling on a tight budget, I personally wouldn’t recommend this option, particularly if you’re on a short UK itinerary. Click here to browse bus schedules.

In our opinion, the best way to get to Cornwall from London or anywhere else in England is to rent a car. While the journey time will be comparable to taking a train, having a car will allow you to have a lot more flexibility in exploring Cornwall.

You can also take a slightly longer but more scenic route along the A-30 that goes along the coast rather than on the highway. This London to Cornwall drive can be an incredible trip on its own and it can be well worth making a few stops along the way.

Public transport within region is limited so having a car will ensure you can visit all the great destinations that are on offer! It’s certainly the easiest way to get around Cornwall.

We rented a car at Heathrow Airport which is a cheaper option than renting a vehicle from the centre of London. We recommend browsing on Rentalcars.Com to find deals on car hire as they aggregate results across a number of suppliers.

It can also be a good option to take out an excess insurance policy from a third party like iCarHireInsurance to ensure you don’t need to pay any excess in the event that you need to make a claim.

If you’re staying in London and prefer to take a tour to visit Cornwall then there a few options available. Most of the tours available will be around 5 days round trip and include accommodation, transport, some meals and a guide. If this is something that interests you I suggest checking out this tour that combines Cornwall with Devon.

3-Day Cornwall Itinerary

While it is entirely possible to spend a week or more enjoying the villages in Cornwall, the nature, the beaches in Cornwall and historic sites, you can cover a lot of ground in just 3 days. If you’re looking for the ideal 3-day Cornish trip, we’re here to help.

Day 1 – Tintagel, Newquay & the Eden Project

The first day of this road trip to Cornwall sees you exploring some diverse areas of this beautiful region. Start by exploring a medieval castle with mythical roots, visit an incredible indoor rainforest, or maybe try your hand at surfing in one of England’s premier beach destinations.

Begin this day in the town of Tintagel, home to Tintagel castle , which, according to folklore, was the mythical birthplace of the one and only King Arthur. This ruined fortification is located on its own small island accessible by a footbridge that leads over the dramatic cliffs below. The views are absolutely spectacular and there is definitely a certain kind of magic that can be found here.

There is a well-maintained visitor’s centre at Tintagel where you can learn more about the history and myth of this castle, or you can just take the time to be moved by how incredible the scenery is.

Note that admission to Tintagel is ticketed, with several different price points for adults, students, children and concessions. Ensure that you wear good shoes as there is some beautiful natural scenery to explore in the area, along with the ruins of the castle and the visitor’s centre.

The Eden Project

From Tintagel and for a different taste of nature, head to the Eden Project which has a number of different biomes including the biggest rainforest in captivity. If you’re an adrenaline junky, it’s possible to zip line across the entire park.

The Eden Project is more than just a botanical garden, it is absolutely massive and it’s perfect even for those who don’t ordinarily like this kind of attraction. There are countless different biomes and greenhouses, numerous outdoor gardens, a massive playground perfect for those travelling with kids and, of course, the zip wire and other adrenaline-pumping activities.

Plan to spend at least a few hours here before moving onto your next destination.

And finally, end your day in the charming town of Newquay, a quintessential seaside village that is a perfect place to explore and relax by the beach. There are countless fantastic restaurants in the town as well, including The Fish House , a well-renowned seafood eatery in Fistral Beach.

Newquay is also said to be the best surfing destination in the UK and the culture here may have you thinking you’ve arrived in a coastal town in Southern California or Australia.

There are countless surfing schools in Newquay that are there to teach you how to hit the waves, should that take your fancy, or you can just occupy yourself by watching the countless surfers from the warmth and safety of the sand (or a beachside bar!).

Day 2 – Penzance, St Michael’s Mount & Land’s End

Provided the weather works in your favour (and there is more of a chance of this in Cornwall than elsewhere in England), spend your second day of this Cornish road trip enjoying a number of Cornwall’s incredible outdoor sights and scenery.

Penzance & St Michael’s Mount

Begin your day in the charming town of Penzance. There isn’t all that much to see here in regards to tourist sites, however, the town itself is worth wandering through. There are a lot of points of interest around Penzance, however, that make it a great jumping-off point for day two of your time in Cornwall.

One such point of interest is the beautiful St Michael’s Mount which is one of the top places to visit in Cornwall. Located on a small island just a stone’s throw away from Penzance of the coast of the town of Marazion, the island is reachable by a man-made causeway that you can walk across at low to mid-tide (most of the day) and it only takes a few minutes to reach the island.

The main attraction of St Michael’s Mount would be the castle that lies on the island. Historically, the castle has been a counterpart of Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy .

The castle on St Michael’s Mount dates back as far as the 8th Century CE when the structure was built as a monastery, however, it has been home to the St Aubyn family since about 1650.

Minack Theatre

From St Michael’s Mount, hop in the car and get ready to experience some of the best natural scenery that you’ll experience in all of England, not just on this visit in Cornwall. For a man-made wonder with some of the best views in the world, take a trip to the Minack Theatre .

It’s an open-air theatre that a Cornish woman carved out of the side of a cliff. It has spectacular views of the sea and puts on Shakespeare productions during the summer season. It’s worth a visit even if you don’t see a show, though, because both the theatre and scenery are absolutely breathtaking.

Land’s End & Cape Cornwall

Now it’s time to head a little bit further southwest until you can’t drive any further — that’s because you’ve reached Land’s End, the southwesternmost point of Britain! This area is more known for its incredible views and stunning scenery, boasting dramatic cliffs and turquoise blue water.

On a clear day, it is even possible to see the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago that lies about 40 kilometres off the coast.

Driving a bit further north, you will reach Cape Cornwall, which is England’s only cape and also boasts numerous walking trails and incredible views. If the weather is fine and you’re keen to get outside a bit, I highly recommend taking a walk around here to experience some of the most amazing views you will see in the region.

Day 3 – Mousehole & St Ives

After spending so much time out in nature on the first two days of this 3 days in Cornwall itinerary, your final day will be spent exploring some iconic Cornish villages.

Begin your day in the lovely town of Mousehole, a traditional fishing village that is sure to steal your heart. While there may not be a huge amount of tourist points of interest here, it is packed with charm and well worth a wander through.

There is also a charming harbour to enjoy along with a number of cosy cafes, cute shops and other places to take it. It’s a great peaceful stop that can take you a bit away from a lot of tourist crowds.

From Mousehole, it’s time to head to one of the most popular places to visit in all of Cornwall, St Ives.

The city of St Ives boasts a lively art scene and even has its own branch of the Tate . There are a number of great restaurants and shops there as well and the winding cobbled streets exude a classic English charm.

The city itself has a lot to offer including some wonderful beaches, plenty of art galleries, locals shops to browse, great restaurants and much much more.

There are also ample walking opportunities that begin and end in the city so if you’re keen to get out into nature just a bit more, make sure to find some hikes that you can go on to enjoy the scenery around this lovely village and this part of Cornwall even more.

There is enough to do in St Ives to keep you occupied for the rest of the day, especially if you’re interested in hitting the beach or going for a walk. There’s no doubt that visiting St Ives is one of the best things to do in Cornwall.

The city also makes for an excellent place to end this trip to Cornwall.

Have More Time?

If you’re looking to spend five days or even a week in Cornwall, there are plenty of ways that you can extend your time in this lovely region.

If you’re keen to get outdoors, then make sure to take advantage of all of the incredible walks that are on offer in the area., including tackling some of the gorgeous South West Coast Path. You also could allot one or two days for a surfing lesson and for time to spend just lounging on the beach.

If you’re interested in exploring more towns and villages, then there are countless more settlements in Cornwall worth visiting including the city of Truro or the coastal towns of Bude and St Austell, the latter of which is home to the famed Lost Gardens of Heligan.

All in all, there is so much to see and do in Cornwall that you can’t go wrong with any length of a Cornwall road trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Cornwall

There are myriad places to stay whilst in Cornwall , from small cities to tiny fishing villages and if you have a car it doesn’t really matter where in the county you stay as you will have the freedom to go wherever you’d like.

If travelling in high season, it is highly advisable to book ahead as Cornwall is an extremely popular destination for both international and local tourists.

If you prefer to stay in a bigger town with a larger selection of restaurants or pubs around then staying in places like Penzance, Newquay or St. Ives are good options. Here are some suggested places in each town.

Chiverton House B&B – A cosy bed and breakfast run by a situated in the heart of Penzance. They offer a range of private rooms suitable for up to two people with all modern amenities.

The Dolphin Tavern – A traditional inn located right on the coast making it the perfect choice if you want to enjoy lovely sea views every morning. Breakfast is included in the room rate.

Cliff House – A great place to stay in Newquay that is well located in the centre of town and next to the beach. Rooms are suitable for couples or families with a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Selkies NQY   – Located a few minutes walk from the beach, this is a great luxurious option for couples looking for a place to stay in Newquay. Staff are friendly and there is a bar on site.

Palma Guest House – A seafront guesthouse overlooking the beautiful St Ives coast, this place has several lovely rooms to choose from and a great location within the village.

Lifeboat Inn – A chic inn overlooking Porthmeor Beach in St Ives, this hotel offers numerous well-decorated rooms, an on-site bar and an excellent breakfast each morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places to stay in Cornwall!

Planning the perfect road trip around Cornwall isn’t a difficult task, with so many beautiful and historic places to visit. No matter how long you plan to spend in this incredible region of England, you’re sure to have an incredible time exploring the historic towns, beautiful nature, and stunning coastline.

Are you planning a Cornwall trip? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Great itinerary!! Can’t wait! we prefer to stay in one of the smaller quaint villages,as though pretending we live there! HaHa!

Where would you suggest for 2 nights or break that up.

Perfect itenary for us. Follow this on Easter long weekend. Thank you.

Thanks! Glad you found this helpful 🙂

Thank you very much. The itinerary sounds fantastic! Could not wait to follow your suggestion.

Hope you have a lovely holiday, Mola!

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hidden gems & solo travel

Cornwall’s Best Places to Visit: 4 Day Detailed Itinerary

Cornwall is the perfect road trip from London . This detailed 4-day itinerary will be your guide for the most epic road trip. It includes the best places to eat, places to stay, and things to do. Cornwall’s best places to visit range from Penzance to St. Ives to Mousehole, and more!

Cornwall is known for its breathtaking cliff views, picturesque fishing villages, and beaches with crystal blue water – you’d never believe are in the UK! So whether you’re a nature lover or simply love a good village – feel town then be sure to get to Cornwall this summer. You will know you’ve made the right choice to make your next vacation here when you realize this is the place where all the Brits go because they love it so much.

⭐ I’M LINKING MY TRIP TO CORNWALL ON MY  INSTAGRAM STORY HIGHLIGHTS  FOR MORE INSPO!

4 Day Itinerary to Cornwall’s Best Places Day 1: Penzance, Mousehole & St. Michaels Mount Day 2: Porthcurno Day 3: St. Ives & Zennor Day 4: St. Agnes & Newquay

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Read our Affiliate Disclosure  here .

How to get to Cornwall from London

Cornwall is a great weekend break from London . Below are some options for getting to Cornwall from London.

How to get to Cornwall from London by train?

London Paddington has direct trains to Cornwall and you can stop at Truro, Penzance, or St. Erth. I always book my tickets through Trainline <– Get the latest prices from London to Cornwall here .

🕐Journey time is 4.5 hours by train

How to get to Cornwall from London by car?

Cornwall is 455km (283 miles) from London.

Map your Journey

🕐Journey time is 4.5 hours by car

Getting around Cornwall

Renting a car is really recommended as it will be the easiest way to get from one town to another. You can still take the train in and rent one when you get there. Just note that you may want to opt for a compact car as Cornwall has a lot of narrow streets where only one car will fit and you have to wait for oncoming cars to pass through. You should book your rental through Discover Cars as it shows you the lowest price across various rental companies.

If transportation will be an issue for you, then I recommend this 5-day tour from London to Devon & Cornwall. Everything is planned for you including transportation!

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Hotels in penzance.

Penzance is a great base and it is in close proximity to the main road of the A30 which gives you easy access to much of Cornwall, Devon, and more. 

Hotel Artist Residence Cornwall : This beautiful boutique hotel is only a 5-minute walk from Penzance’s seafront and is next to lots of cafes and attractions. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

Hotel Penzance : Set in 2 Edwardian houses, with views of Penzance Bay. This is another great boutique-style option. Click here for more information and to check the latest

Hotels in St. Ives

St. Ives is where all the action is and is one of the most popular destinations in Cornwall. If you want to be near the beach and all the activity then staying in St. Ives is for you!

Trevose Harbour House : Located right in the seaside town with amazing amenities like in room treatments and massages! Click here for more information and to check the latest The Nook : A beautiful guest house located only 400 yards from Porthmeor Beach. Click here for more information and to check the latest

Hotels in St. Agnes

If you want to get away from the crowds and experience a small-town local feel then stay in St. Agnes! It’s super quaint and adorable. I personally stayed in this area and loved it.

Seven Bed & Breakfast : Owned by a family this bed and breakfast with amazing ratings is a great choice to stay. It is also more affordable than the options you will see in St. Ives. Click here for more information and to check the latest

Glamping in Cornwall or Devon

Did you know that there are so many amazing unique glamping accommodations in both Cornwall and Devon? I highly recommend escaping to nature in one of these amazing places to stay.

Click here for Luxury Glamping in Cornwall and here for Luxury Glamping in Devon

Solo Travel in Cornwall

Cornwall is the perfect place to solo travel especially if you’re a first-time solo traveler. I felt super safe there and there are so many adventurous things you can do whether it’s hiking or relaxing at the beach. In any case, it’s definitely worth getting travel insurance whether you’re traveling alone or with others and I recommend SafetyWing which will cover you in case of any accidents or hospital visits. While it’s unlikely to happen, better safe than sorry!

Cornwall Itinerary: Cornwall’s Best Places to Visit in 4 Days

Cornwall has so much to offer so in 4 days you will get to catch some of the best highlights in this guide. If you want to stay longer be sure to see what towns you should add to make it a 7 day trip at the end of this post! Cornwall’s best places to visit range from Mousehole to St. Ives, and much much more!

Cornwall Itinerary Day 1: Mousehole & St. Michael’s Mount

Day one can be spent in the morning exploring Mousehole and then after a few hours head to St. Michael’s Mount during low tide to see the gorgeous church and castle.

⚠️ Pronounced “Mowzel” *not* mouse hole Don’t make the silly mistake of pronouncing it wrong!

WHY VISIT MOUSEHOLE? Mousehole is a fisherman’s village close to Penzance. It’s very picturesque. You will find breath-taking coastal views, quaint streets, and amazing seafood including lobster, crab, and mussels. It’s easily one of the prettiest villages in Cornwall and was my personal favorite.

Things to do in Mousehole

1. stroll around mousehole harbour.

Mousehole Harbor is one of Cornwall’s best places to visit. This village and fishing port in Cornwall is very picturesque and surrounding it you will find many lovely cafes and shops. You can do fun activities like sailing, sitting on the beach when the weather is nice, or just strolling around and admiring the beauty all around.

2. Hike to see the incredible views!

Just past The Mousehole Shop, there is a path you can walk up, and then you can see the harbour and English cottages dotted along the landscape. If you love nature, it’s a great but not too exhausting walk before you are rewarded with a view.

3. Go Shopping!

Stop by the local shops in Mousehole and get a souvenir. Two great shops include The Mousehole on the main strip and this other magical shop called The Ark which was a bit off the beaten path. The owner is really sweet and he really takes pride in his shop handmaking everything in there! There are so many fun trinkets in there including jewellery, dragonflies, fairy dust, and more! The owner built a cool tree inside during lockdown and there was a key you had to find to open this box and when you turned a switch fairy dust came out to my delight. It was gold GLITTER my kind of place 🙂

4. Eat at Rock Pool Cafe

The Rock Pool Cafe is a unique place to eat in Mousehole. You have the view of the sea pool right in front of you and you can try some of the amazing seafood Cornwall has to offer. The crab sandwich is pictured below and if it’s cooler out try the hot chocolate. It is so fresh – they bring out the chocolate separately and you add it to the hot milk yourself!

St. Michael’s Mount

WHY VISIT ST. MICHAEL’S MOUNT? St. Michael’s Mount is another top place to visit in Cornwall. It is a tidal island in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall featuring a medieval church and castle. If you’ve heard of Mont St Michel in France it highly resembles it.

⭐Pro Tip: Visit during low tide so you can walk up closer to the castle. During high tide, you have to take a boat which is also easy to do as well. You can also book tickets to see the castle here .

Cornwall Itinerary Day 2: Porthcurno

WHY VISIT PORTHCURNO? England’s coastal hidden gem, Porthcurno is a small village with one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. The Minack Theatre is situated perfectly with the view of the beach and it’s a very unique open-air theatre which you can book tickets to see a show to this day.

Things to do in Porthcurno

1. relax at porthcurno beach.

Did you know paradise could exist in England? This stunning beach with fine soft white sand, turquoise water, and cliff views is the perfect place to spend the day relaxing. 

2. Watch a show at the Minack Theatre

Minack Theatre is a unique open-air theatre in Porthcurno. If you book in advance you can watch a show by visiting this website . It doesn’t get better than being entertained and admiring the incredible coastal views at the same time!

3. Visit Lands End

Located only 4 miles from Porthcurno be sure to stop by the most famous attraction in England, a definite must-see spot. Land’s End got its name because its location is as far to the west as you can get on the coast of Cornwall. You can literally peer off the country from here which makes Lands End so special. The views are also out of this world.

Cornwall Itinerary Day 3: St. Ives & Zennor

WHY VISIT ST. IVES? St. Ives is one of Cornwall’s most popular destinations. It’s known for its museums and art galleries. You will see beautiful views of stacked fisherman’s houses – such an amazing sight. The beach is stunning and there are many local shops and cafes around the cobblestone paths.

Things to do in St. Ives

1. admire the views of the cute fisherman’s cottages.

If you park at the top of the town, you will find this lovely view of the fisherman’s cottages. So many typical English houses perked amongst the beachside views.

2. Explore the cute cobblestone streets with nice shops and cafes

There are so many quaint streets to explore. During high season it’s very well packed with tourists as everyone loves St. Ives for its beaches, shopping, and endless activities.

3. Try Cornish pasties

One of the best bakeries in St Ives is St Ives Bakery. It is a must to try a typical Cornish pasty. Pasties contain cooked meat and vegetables – they are surely tasty.

4. Relax at the beach

Who knew that the UK could have such beautiful beaches! You will be in awe by the crystal blue water and the sandy beaches. The beach pictured above is Porthminster Beach. There is also the Porthmeor beach too.

5. Take a stroll on St. Ives Harbour

6. Zennor Head Walk

Zennor Head Walk is very near St. Ives. In fact, some people even walk it. If you’re up for the challenge it is 3 to 4 hours and 6.5 miles to get there. Otherwise, you can drive up close to it and enjoy the views after a short and easy walk.

7. Have dinner and beers at the historic pub, Tinnor Arms

For dinner, after your walk to Zennor Head, you can head over to an old pub directly near it called Tinnoe Arms. An old pub built-in 1271 has been a part of Zennor for some time. They have a huge outdoor patio with great food so it’s worth checking out.

Cornwall Itinerary Day 4: St. Agnes & Newquay

WHY VISIT ST. AGNES? St. Agnes is considered rural Cornwall with its 7,500 inhabitants. It definitely has a more charming feel than the other towns I’ve visited so far. The storefronts are super adorable and quaint with many independent bakeries and shops. It has a true small-town feel which excites me. There’s also a beautiful beach. It is one of Cornwall’s best places to visit if you are into hidden gems.

1. Stop by the cute independent shops and bakeries

St. Agnes is super adorable – all the independent shops and bakeries with charming facades made this town feel a bit more special and authentic than the more tourist towns of Cornwall.

Be sure to stop by Trunk Deli for a bagel and fresh flowers to brighten up your stay if you’re staying in one of the nice guest houses nearby. Grab your coffee at the Sorting Office Coffeehouse . Then take home some fresh bread or try a cornish pasty from St. Agnes Bakery .

2. Admire the English cottages by taking a walk through the neighborhood.

3. Have lunch & a beer at the Driftwood Spars

There is a really great view of the beach from this restaurant. They also have a brewery with specialty beers. Try the Stippy Stappy named after the famous street in the town.

4. Visit St. Agnes Beach

You will see a pathway right before the beach entrance that will take you up to see some incredible panoramic views like the one below!

5. See the cottages at Stippy Stappy

💎HIDDEN GEM: Stippy-Stappy a famous row of cottages on a narrow upward path. I really love finding unique things to do wherever I travel.

WHY VISIT NEWQUAY? Newquay is on the north coast of Cornwall and is famous for its surfing culture and various water sport activities. It’s another beautiful sandy beach to add to your Cornwall bucket list. The most notable beaches include Fistral Beach, Tolcarne Beach, and  Crantock Beach.

Have more time? Here’s a 7 Day Itinerary to Cornwall’s Best Places

Day 1: Penzance, Mousehole & St. Michaels Mount Day 2: Porthcurno Day 3: St. Ives & Zennor Day 4: St. Agnes & Newquay Day 5: Helford River, Falmouth, & St. Mawes Day 6: Padstow, Port Isaac, Tintagel Day 7: St Austel, The Lost Gardens Heligan, & Eden’s Project

BONUS MAP: 7-day Itinerary to Cornwall’s Best Places

HERE IS A MAP OF ALL CORNWALL’S BEST PLACES TO VISIT FOR THE 7 DAY ITINERARY!

I hope this was useful in planning your Cornwall Itinerary and please comment below to share your experience traveling here!

You may also like these posts: ⛺ Luxury Glamping in Cornwall 🏕️ Luxury Glamping in Devon 💎  Best Hidden Gems in Europe 📸  Most Beautiful Cities in Europe 🤫 Travel secrets & tips Read my other posts on UK Travel

Meet Jackie Rezk, the London-based explorer behind Jou Jou Travels. With a knack for uncovering hidden gems, Jackie's travel blog captures the charm of undiscovered places through pretty architecture and bursts of color. Featured in Yahoo News, Tripadvisor, Niche Pursuits, and GetYourGuide, Jackie has been blogging for four years and solo-traveled to over 20 countries. In 2023, she made the leap to full-time blogging, sharing her passion for travel and unique finds with readers worldwide.

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30 Comments

This is such a great itinerary! I would love to go back and explore more of Cornwall. Rock Pool cafe looks beautiful!

thank you! rock pool was super cool – loved the view

I can’t believe I’ve still not managed to visit Cornwall! It looks absolutely stunning! Mousehole looks adorable! Thanks for the pronunciation tip…I’d definitely be walking around saying “Mouse hole”! The Minack Theatre is on my bucket list, it looks spectacular! Thanks for the great guide!

thank you! hahah I definitely said it wrong 🙂

I love Cornwall! I have been to Perranporth and Newquay, now you have showed me many more interesting points to visit. I love the look of the Minack theatre and Zennor Head. That crab sandwich looks yummy! Thanks for your blog, I am heading the Cornwall way as soon as flights open! 🙂

ohh thank you! glad you enjoyed it 🙂

I used to visit Cornwall with my family as a child and had such fond memories but I don’t think I ever appreciated its beauty. I am so keen to go back and do it properly as an adult in my own car. I am saving this for whenever that may be!

Yes, I hope you can visit again soon. It’s so gorgeous!

I did something similar a few years back. Cornwall is lovely and there’s so much to do

I haven’t travelled around this part of England yet, but it’s been on my list for a while now. It looks absolutely stunning to drive around so thanks for the great tips!

highly recommend it 🙂

I’ve literally just arrived back home from Cornwall, but I already want to go back. There are so many amazing places to see, and this is a great collection of places!

Thanks! your trip looked amazing 🙂

This is the itinerary I needed for so long! 🙂 I’ve wanted to visit Cornwall for a while, so I hope I can make it there this summer. I absolutely love your pictures too. Thank you for sharing.

Thank you! hope you can go soon

Cornwall is definitely one of my favorite areas of the UK. WE used to go there every year on holiday. I know it’s touristy but I really love St. Ives. I guess it’s popular for a reason, but you can’t go wrong with anywhere there and you’ve really covered some of the best places Cornwall has to offer

Yes, I loved it all – there’s so much I didn’t have time to see too!

I am planning to go to UK this December, hopefully it will push through! I would love to see Cornwall, it looks amazing! Especially the Lands End and Minack Theater! 🙂

nice! going to london too?

Wow, Cornwall is such a beautiful place. You have truly captured the vibe with these BEAUTIFUL photos!! It makes me want to travel again.

I had no idea it was so beautiful there!! I’d love to explore more parts of the UK than just London

Wow there are so many beautiful places in Cornwall. I can’t drive so I guess I’ll have to do the tour. The Cornish pastry looks heavenly!

There are also buses you can take! But a tour might be easier too

Wow! I had no idea Cornwall is so beautiful. Thanks for this detailed itinerary; I would love to visit it on my next trip to UK

hope you get to go!

Thanks for sharing this beautiful article.

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

Beautiful itinerary, hoping to go this summer. Which area (AIRBNB) should we (11 of us) stay so that we can cover the most.

Thank you for putting this together – so very helpful! 🙂

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall (England)

With a Celtic heritage and rocky granite coastline, Cornwall has as much in common with somewhere like Brittany as it does the United Kingdom.

Sheltered by deep inlets on the coast are village ports that hark back to a different time for their fishing boats and stone cottages.

Visit these for tales of smugglers, boat trips and superb fish and seafood.

These smaller communities share Cornwall with a handful of the country’s most cherished seaside resorts, like St Ives, with an ensemble of beaches that almost defies belief, or Newquay, the UK’s surfing capital.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Cornwall :

In the 20th century St Ives evolved from a fishing harbour to possibly England’s prettiest seaside resort.

This has much to do with the abundance of heavenly beaches close by.

The choice is almost dumbfounding, but Porthminster and Porthmeor and their soft golden sands and natural seascapes are the cream.

St Ives’ fishing heritage makes the resort all the quainter: You can still see the colourful fishing vessels pulling in and out the  harbour, and on the winding cobbled alleys in the town are twee old shops and inns to investigate.

As if that wasn’t enough, you have culture too, as town became an artists’ colony in the 1930s.

There’s a fantastic Barbara Hepworth sculpture garden and a branch of the Tate Museum, as well as independent galleries to potter around

For most people the name “Newquay” immediately conjures images of surfing.

This is surf central for the UK, blessed with six superb beaches for riding waves.

But the reason for Newquay’s fame is the Fistral, with a beach break that causes tall, hollow waves that will test the skills of seasoned surfers and give newcomers the ideal intro to the sport.

Much of Newquay is geared towards surfing, but with seven miles of sandy coastline there’s a lot more to the resort.

You can bring littler beachgoers to play on the calmer bays, go on steam train trips and befriend the animals at Newquay or Dairyland Farm World.

Couple meanwhile can stay at cute bed & breakfasts, take scenic walks and the sublime Elizabethan Trerice House.

3. St Austell

Like the best towns in Cornwall, St Austell has hilly, scurrying lanes enticing you to explore.

China Clay was the big industry here in the 1800s, and embedded in a former clay pit is the Eden Project, a mind-blowing botanical project that was unveiled for the new millennium.

There are two sensational geodesic biomes, one sustaining rainforest plants and the other a Mediterranean environment.

And if you plan ahead you could be here for the Eden Sessions, a series of summer concerts welcoming some big names in rock and pop, like Brian Wilson, the Flaming Lips, PJ Harvey and Sigur Rós.

Much older are the Lost Gardens of Heligan, around the 17th-century Heligan house and cherished for their enormous rhododendron  and camellia bushes.

4. Penzance

As England’s most westerly town Penzance has had a lot of maritime visitors, some friendly, some not so much, like Barbary corsairs or foreign fleets like the Spanish Armada in 1595. It’s a handsome port, with lot of granite-built regency and Georgian architecture.

Check out Chapel Street, with its Egyptian House from the 1830s, or the sleek art deco Jubilee Pool Lido from 1835. And, whether you watch you watch a production or just take a tour the Minack Theatre, cut from the granite cliffs in the 1930s, is a spectacle in its own right.

In Penzance’s balmier climes there are Cornish palms on the streets, and an astonishing choice of subtropical gardens to visit.

Tanglewood, Trengwainton and Morrab are musts, but you should also keep the National Dahlia Collection in mind.

5. Falmouth

Lots of things contribute to Falmouth’s fame as holiday getaway.

First is the Fal River estuary, widening into the third-deepest natural harbour on the planet.

You can’t beat this place for hikes,  and on the water you can hop from village to village on boat trips that you’ll remember all your life.

Then there’s the town’s harbour, where daring round the world voyages have been launched and where the American fleet was based in the Second World War.

All of this is documented at the National Maritime Museum, and that is just the tip of the iceberg.

There’s the enchanting Trebah Garden, family-friendly beaches, quirky shops and Henry VIII’s coastal fortress, Pendennis Castle.

In the far north of Cornwall, Bude is like Newquay as it faces the Celtic Sea, which is essentially the Atlantic Ocean.

The two main beaches, Crooklets and Summerleaze, are broad, windswept and have awesome conditions for surfing on the right days.

Summerleaze has sweet pastel-painted beach huts as well as the Bude Sea Pool, which is replenished at  high tide and gives you safe salt-water swimming.

There’s a bunch of other phenomenal beaches along the coast, while the wild scenery will inspire the adventurer in you.

The highest sea cliffs in Cornwall could hardly be closer, and epic sandstone rock formations like these are a honeypot for climbers, hikers and even people intrigued by their unusual geological composition.

A dinky city, Truro is smaller than many market towns but doesn’t suffer for its size.

The cultivated Georgian and Victorian architecture in the centre dates to the time tin mining was a way of life, putting Truro on the map as the centre of political power.

The cathedral was built at this time, in the gothic revival style at the end of the 19th century, and is pretty unusual for having three spires.

Apart from dawdling around the cute shopping streets like Cathedral Lane and St Mary’s Street, you can have a peek at the Royal Cornwall Museum in a fine Palladian hall.

For a city, local activities are very rural, like open farms, boat trips, country parks, cider presses and breweries.

In tin-mining country at the heart of Cornwall, Bodmin’s streets are furnished with bold granite architecture funded by this historic industry.

The County Court in its neoclassical splendour conveys Bodmin’s standing in centuries past.

One creepy attraction you have to see is Bodmin Jail, dating to the 1700s and innovative in the sense that it was the first institution to put prisoners in separate cells.

Take the tour, which informs you about the ghosts claimed to haunt these walls, as well the First World War, when the crown jewels and Domesday Book were stored for safekeeping.

A more polished day out can be had at the Pencarrow or Lanhydrock House, two beautiful country piles.

9. Tintagel

The mysterious and wild coast of north Cornwall is a place conducive to legends, and these don’t come more romantic than King Arthur.

Tintagel Castle, a beautiful 13th-century ruin balanced precariously on rocks, is the birthplace of the mythical king.

The setting is epic, with “Merlin’s Cave”, “Rocky Valley”, dark cliffs and grassy slopes and it’s not hard to see how people’s imaginations might run wild in such a place.

In the village, take in the Old Post Office, a delightful granite building from the 1300s, or the Norman Church of St Materiana, which has a Roman milestone inside.

10. Mevagissey

A lovably quaint village on the Roseland Heritage Coast, Mevagissey still has a small fleet of fishing boats departing and returning to the unusual double harbour laden with sole, turbot and lobster.

The inner quaysides are medieval, while the outer harbour walls are from the 18th century.

Fishing trips and ferry rides to outlying villages are the order of the day in Mevagissey.

But you need to give yourself time to look around the this place, which has a tangle of streets that wind up the green hillsides, fabulous seafood restaurants and lots of tempting shops.

11. Polperro

Tucked into a rocky inlet on the Polperro Heritage Coast, this gorgeous little port has an in famous history.

Ever since Polperro took shape in the 1100s smuggling was rife here, but the activity peaked in the 1700s while Britain was fighting in America and in the Napoleonic Wars.

The Heritage Museum of Smuggling & Fishing by the water will highlight the tricks of the trade and characters involved.

You can amble around Polperro window shopping at one-off shops and art studios, or set off on a more purposeful walk over craggy shoreline on the way to Polruan via the Southwest Coast Path.

Some of Polperro’s fishing vessels will also take you out of the harbour to get a better look at the coast, spot basking sharks or go fishing.

12. Padstow

Food-lovers come to Padstow for some of the best seafood restaurants in Cornwall.

If you value food provenance you’ll be thrilled by the way these restaurants are connected to Padstow’s working fishing port, ensuring quality and freshness.

And it’s also worthwhile to just plonk yourself here on a sunny day and watch the activity around the port and observe an industry that has almost disappeared from Britain.

You can check out the conservation work being done by the National Lobster Hatchery, head off along the coast to discover unspoiled beaches, or wander by the River Camel Estuary, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

13. Redruth

We’ve mentioned tin mining a few times, and if you want to grasp exactly what this industry meant to Cornwall for hundreds of years Redruth could be your best option.

Here you can enter the East Pool Mine, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting Cornwall and Devon’s mining legacy.

This mine operated from the 1700s to 1945, and the amount of antique machinery, including two beam engines and an intact engine house, is an eye-opener.

In the countryside, Wheal Pinvor is a ruined mine slowly being reclaimed by nature, while Gwennap Pit is a strange phenomenon, a terraced amphitheatre fashioned by mining subsidence up to the 1700s.

14. Boscastle

Despite being a small coastal village, Boscastle is pleasure to wander around because it stretches out a long way beside its natural harbour.

There’s the combined allure of old fishing cottages and inns, together with the rocky green hills that bank sharply from the water.

At the entrance to the harbour on a spectacular promontory is the Lookout, built first as a summer house by the local landowner and then used as an observation point to combat smugglers.

Further back, where the harbour is just a narrow channel, is a National Trust cafe and the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, with what might be the largest hoard of ritual magic artefacts in the world.

In a county of adorable fishing ports, Looe is one of the most adorable of all and still has a fleet of fishing boats.

Get up early for the fish auction first thing in the morning on the quayside, or try catching your own seafood by going crabbing on the old harbour wall.

For littler members of the family the Monkey Sanctuary recues woolly monkeys and  eventually returns them to the Amazon.

There’s a diverting museum in the town’s guildhall, and you can board a boat for St George’s Island, which was a hotbed of smuggling in the 1600s and 1700s.

15 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall (England):

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Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary (& MAP)

Planning a Cornwall road trip? Want a map and itinerary to help guide your route and decide what to visit? No worries- we’ve shared our Cornish itinerary ideas here for 5, 7 10 or longer days, as well as 40 of the best places to visit in Cornwall- with a map!

Don’t forget to download your FREE Cornwall road trip planner below (complete with map and itinerary ideas)

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

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Why plan a Cornwall Road Trip?

Cornwall is one of our favourite places in England to road trip around.

The combination of Cornish coast, beautiful beaches, cute villages, history, incredible scenery and delicious cream teas is just too much to resist.

I was lucky enough to be based in Cornwall when I was stationed there in the Navy- so there are some secret places on this itinerary which you don’t often hear about until you live there… ssssh !

Here are some of our favourite places to visit in Cornwall, along with our suggested Cornwall road trip itinerary and a handy Map of Cornwall so you can plan your own trip! 

Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary- where to start

Like anywhere, planning a road trip to Cornwall takes a little time and research. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Cornwall (as you will see below) that if you only have a week to visit, you’ll need to plan your itinerary carefully.

Our suggestion is to not try and do too much. We spent 7 days in Cornwall with our motorhome, which made it easy to move around from place to place and explore. If you’re going to be staying in one area, we highly recommend hiring a car or a campervan, to make it easier to explore the Cornish roads.

Much of Cornwall is quite remote and public transport can be hit and miss, so having your own vehicle will make things much easier.

We recommend Europcar and Booking.com

NOTE: This is a HUGE Itinerary and post- over 4000 words! If you would like, you can download it:

Cornwall Road trip Itinerary for 7-10 days

We spent a week in Cornwall during October; (“we” being two adults and teenage girl. We travelled in our motorhome, using campsites and wild camping wherever possible.

Here’s the Cornish itinerary we did:

• Day 1- Mevagissey.
• Day 2- Falmouth and Pendennis Castle
• Day 3- St Michael’s Mount (although we had horrible weather, so we carried on to Land’s End instead of stopping. Stayed at Sennen Campsite
• Day 4- Land’s End/ Sennen, back to St Michael’s Mount and Minack Theatre
• Day 5- St Ives, Newquay, Perranporth and Boscastle. Parked at Tintagel Car Park overnight
• Day 6- Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave . Don’t forget St Nectan’s Glen if you have time.
• Day 7- Bude Beach

NOTE: We visited Cornwall with our teenager, who loves road trips, which means we did a lot of driving around. If you’re visiting Cornwall with younger kids, you might want to add more stops and cover less ground.

Cornwall trip planner for 5 days or a long weekend

You can easily enjoy a road trip around Cornwall for 5 days, or even a weekend. Just pick and choose your itinerary wisely and remember you won’t be able to drive as fast as usual due to the tiny Cornish roads, so plan accordingly and don’t take on too much.

Cornwall Road Trip Map – Cornwall Itinerary

Here’s a map of the places we visited in Cornwall during our 7 day Road Trip. We didn’t visit all the places listed below in one week- there’s far too many, but at least that gives you an excuse to some back again!

Hopefully, this map helps you plan your Cornwall travel and decide where to stay along the way.

Common Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary questions:

These are questions we and many other people have asked:

How long does it take to drive around Cornwall?

Like anywhere, your Cornwall road trip can be as long or short as you make it. The coastal road of Cornwall, from the Cornish border near Plymouth, stopping at St Austell, Falmouth, Lands End, St Ives and Bude, is about 200miles (320km) and you could possibly do it in a weekend if you didn’t sleep or stop very much.

Don’t forget, Cornish roads are NOT motorways- you will not be driving at 70mph. Heck, you’ll be lucky if you do a regular 30mph. So 200 miles on the Cornish coast will take you a lot longer than you expect!

Cornwall Trip Planner- How many days do you need in Cornwall?

We highly recommend going for as long as you can! Depending on where you are travelling to or where else you’re including in your England road trip , it can take a while to reach Cornwall, so at least a long weekend but ideally a week to really make the most of it!

How far is it from London to Cornwall?

The distance from London to Cornwall is about 250 miles (depending on starting and stopping point) and will take you about 4 and a half hours to drive on a clear traffic day.

TOP TIP: DO NOT TRY TO TRAVEL TO CORNWALL ON A BANK HOLIDAY! Or on the first day of a school holiday. Seriously- the roads are tiny, busy and sloooooow. You will regret all your life’s choices. Go earlier, later or ideally avoid the school holidays all together.

What is the best time to visit Cornwall?

There are plenty of good times to visit Cornwall, away from the busiest months of July and August. Personally, we love May, June and September- it’s also one of the best places to visit in Europe in Autumn .

Where to stay in Cornwall

Of course, what you include in your itinerary is up to you (and where you’re going to stay.) If you’re visiting Cornwall in the school holidays, we recommend choosing and booking your accommodation first, and THEN creating an itinerary for travel around the area which suits you. You can pick and choose from the ideas below as you wish.

Of course, there are a HUGE range of places to stay in Cornwall, from exclusive hotels with breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline, to cheaper B and Bs and AirBnBs.

Campsites in Cornwall

If you’re travelling by motorhome, campervan or car with tent, there are plenty of GREAT campsites to enjoy. Again, many of them are incredibly popular, so book as far in advance as possible.

We used Brit Stops and also stayed at Sennen Campsite (close to Lands End). For the rest of the time we found motorhome parking places as we travelled and stayed off-grid as much as possible.

Planning a road trip? You might find these useful:

• How to plan a UK road trip
• The best England road trip destinations
• 21 Fun car games for kids
• 12 ideas for unforgettable UK road trips

Best places to visit in Cornwall- 40+ ideas for you

Below, you’ll find 40+ places we love to visit in Cornwall, for different reasons. We’ve included many on the Cornish coast, as we love the beaches in Cornwall, but there’s plenty away from the crowds too.

So, in now particular order, here are some of our favourite places in Cornwall:

Historical & Famous Places to see in Cornwall

Cornwall is a land full of history. From Pirates and smugglers, to beautiful houses, castles and lighthouses, there are some incredible places to visit in Cornwall. Here are a few of our favourites:

Land’s End- a destination on every Cornwall Road Trip

You can’t go all the way to Cornwall and NOT go to Land’s End. It’s a long way to drive, I know, but such a beautiful place- and it’s the furthest west you can get on mainland England. Next stop- America!

There’s plenty of parking, as well as toilet facilities, cafes and trinket shops.

I love the fact that the year is changed on the Land’s End post so it always shows the year in your photos!

Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave

Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave were one of the highlights of our roadtrip to Cornwall. We were so lucky with the weather- especially in October half-term- but just LOOK at the colour of that water. 

Tintagel Castle is part of English Heritage, which you can join HERE for only a few pounds a month (it also gives you free access to famous places like Stonehenge (we saw the most INCREDIBLE sunrise at Stonehenge ever- see it here) 

Historic Places to see in Cornwall- St Michael’s Mount

St Michaels’ Mount is on the south coast of Cornwall- and well worth a visit. It’s on an island and is actually a twin to Mont St Michel (one of the most historic places to visit in France! )

You can walk out to the castle and back at low tide- just be careful about the tides as the water flows in very fast. If it’s not low tide, there’s a boat which you can take to get out and back.

We flew our travel drone out over the sea and got some spectacular shots of the castle in the sunshine.

Best place to go in Cornwall? The Minack Theatre

The Minack Theatre is unlike anywhere else we’ve ever been- an open-air theatre carved into the cliff. 

I’ll be honest, we didn’t know what to expect and when we saw the motorhome parking was at the bottom of the cliff, we were so close to not bothering. But boy are we glad we did!! It’s SPECTACULAR- and so unique- definitely one of the best places to visit in Cornwall.

The Theatre is still a working theatre, and people travel from miles around to view a play there- if you’d like to do the same, make sure you book up well in advance as it’s very popular!

When shows aren’t scheduled, you can walk around the theatre and seating, have a picnic, take advantage of the cafe and enjoy the views. 

Restomel Castle

Restormel Castle   is a  13th Century Castle built in a circle which is in remarkably good condition! Open from April-October, it’s a beautiful place for a picnic, with stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

Cotehele is one of my favourite National Trust properties. It’s a medieval house with some Tudor additions- and it’s really beautiful. There is also Cotehele Quay which has ‘Shamrock’, a Victorian sailing barge, and a beautiful tearoom right on the river. If you have time, be sure to add this stop to your Cornwall Road Trip itinerary.

This is a breath-taking Victorian country house. Seriously, there aren’t many estates left like this one. It’s another National Trust property , with plenty of activities taking place throughout the year.

Jamaica Inn- worth a road trip to Cornwall!

Cornwall’s most famous smuggling pub. Located high up on Bodmin Moor and made famous by Daphne du Maurier, Jamaica Inn has been there for over 300 years, welcoming weary travellers. Apparently, it’s haunted too- so I’ll let you decide if you want to stay in one of its 36 bedrooms! There is also a museum and a restaurant.

Pretty villages & towns to visit in Cornwall

You can’t visit Cornwall on a road trip without driving through at least one beautiful stone village. They’re EVERYWHERE. However, if you want some help with your Cornwall trip planning, here are a few of our favourites:

It’s hard to believe that this beautiful village is one of the main gathering for witches in the UK, but it’s true. It has a great witch museum, which is touristy in parts but really interesting in others.

Boscastle has endured horrendous floods twice in the last few years, with the worst being in August 2004. Waters reached over 2m deep in some places- you can see the markers on the buildings as you walk around. It’s incredible that no-one died.

Our favourites were the ice cream and the incredible pottery factory, which sold some beautiful and unique pieces.

Cornish road trips should always include Newquay. It’s beautiful and has one of the best surfing beaches in the UK. Although that has almost become a problem- it has become a mecca for Stag and Hen parties, as well as surfers and teenagers.

All these happy visitors give it a great party atmosphere and the nightlife is lively, but it is VERY touristy and sometimes can be far too crowded (although in fairness the same can now be said for many other parts of Cornwall too.)

Still there is a huge amount of accommodation options, from posh hotels to large houses for parties. See the latest deals here:

St Ives is one of the best summer holiday destinations in the UK – beautiful, quaint and with a couple of incredible white sandy beaches- possibly the best in Cornwall. However, it also has the downsides you expect from a Cornish town- it’s a NIGHTMARE to park and gets incredibly busy in the summer.

There is a park and ride on the top of a hill (which tolerates motorhomes during the day but doesn’t encourage them). Don’t expect to be able to park near the beach unless you get there first thing in the morning; even then I think there is now a waiting limit on the parking of a few hours.

Still, it’s definitely worth a visit- the harbour and the beaches alone are worth the effort.

If you do get the option to stay in St Ives for a couple of days, here are some great options for you:

Here are some other activities to do in St Ives:

Tate St. Ives

If you like museums, the Tate St Ives  art museum is well worth a look. Even if you don’t the views from the gallery are spectacular or you could always enjoy an ice cream and sun yourself on the beach for a few hours!

Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Museum St Ives

If you haven’t heard of her, no judgement- I hadn’t either! But her sculptures are beautiful. This museum is small, but interesting if you enjoy crazy sculptures in the garden… (don’t we all??!!)

Newquay or St Ives- which is better?

Many people wonder whether they should visit Newquay or St Ives. The answer is: it depends on what you want.

St Ives is more ‘arty’ and general has a quieter crowd. Newquay is party town- lots of stag and hen parties and more families and a younger, surfer crowd.

Both places are ‘cool’ in their own way, but one is more overtly loud and proud than the other.

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Tintagel village is famous for being the home of King Arthur’s Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s cave, but there is so much more to it than that.

The village is built from built Cornish stone and is full of cute houses, shops and delicious tea rooms (as is most of Cornwall!) There are also a couple of decent pubs too, including the Cornishman Inn which has a pub garden and serves great food. 

Don’t miss King Arthur’s Great Halls in the village itself (the stained glass window is incredible) and the fitter of you must make the walk up to St Materiana’s Church, which stands proudly on the headland overlooking the Castle and the breathtaking views out to sea. 

Talking of sea views, if you’d like to stay in Tintagel for a night, head to the Camelot Hotel. This building looks impressive, the decor is opulent and the views from the bedrooms are insane. Well worth the (pretty steep!) price. 

My Mother-in-law used to talk about Mevagissey all the time- it was one of her favourite places in Cornwall. And honestly, it’s one of ours now.

It’s VERY touristy, and some of the shops are crazy expensive, but it’s such a beautiful village with a cute harbour and DELICIOUS pasties. (Most places in Cornwall have delicious pasties, but these seemed to be even better. Or maybe we were just hungry!) Again, here are some of the best places to stay in and near Mevagissey.

Ferry from Mevagissey to Fowey 

This is a lovely way to see more of the coastline from the water and is a great trip on a calm, sunny day (I wouldn’t advise it if the weather is bad- being on that sea in a storm can be miserable- I speak from experience!!)

You can take a ferry from Megavissey to Fowey, which takes about 40 minutes and runs daily from April- September, weather permitting. In 2018 returns cost £14 and cycles were £8. Well-behaved dogs go free!

I love Falmouth. It’s one of our favourite places in Cornwall. Falmouth is a big city, but everything feels very ‘seaside resort’ and relaxed.

It’s the third deepest natural harbour in the world and there’s so much history to explore- if you get a chance, visit the area for at least a couple of days so you can try to see everything. There are plenty of wonderful hotels and guesthouses if you don’t have a van or tent- have a look at the latest deals here:

Pendennis Castle 

Positioned on the headland with impressive views, this castle is well worth a visit (although possibly not if you’ve already been to St. Michael’s Mount- it’s not got the same ‘wow’ factor.)

Having said that, this castle was very important in both World Wars and there are exhibitions which are pretty interesting. It’s run by the English Heritage, so worth becoming a member. Find out more HERE

National Maritime Museum

This museum now has 3 floors and 12 exhibitions, so it’s not for the faint-hearted or as a quick ‘looksee’, but if you are at all interested in the sea, naval history, the history of the boat or want to sail model boats on the lake inside, it might be just the place.

Take a ferry ride 

This is one of my favourite ways to explore any harbour- and Falmouth has several great options. My personal favourite is St Mawes- Falmouth ferry, which passes some beautiful parts of the harbour, including Pendennis Castle and St Mawes Castle. You might even see some dolphins! More info can be found  HERE

Skinners Brewery.

In Truro, just outside Falmouth, you’ll find Skinners Brewery – an award-winning producer of pale ales and bitter. You can book a tour, enjoy an evening of live music, or just sample some of their famous brews!

Places of Nature to visit in Cornwall

Any good Cornwall itinerary should include plenty of time to enjoy some of the ‘great outdoors’. Cornwall is a county made for being outdoors- from beautiful beaches to the wildness of the moors, and everything in between. Some of the best things to do in Cornwall involve getting out and about in nature.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan 

Near Mevagissey is a real-life secret garden- the Lost Gardens of Heligan. It was literally found 25 years ago through a secret door, which led to the entire estate being renovated and is now open to the public.

The play areas and outdoor attractions are mostly seasonal, but many parts are still open over winter.

Visit The Lizard… (but only if you have time on your Cornwall Road Trip )

the Lizard is the most southerly point in the UK and it’s beautiful if you catch it on a nice day. There are some lovely Cornish coastal walks and the wildlife is stunning. But then, that’s true of most of Cornwall.

As a ex-Naval aircrew who used to be based down in RNAS Culdrose, I get quite excited by the Lizard (we did all our navigation training using the Lizard as a reference point!)

But honestly, if you’re going to any of the other cliffs on your Cornwall Road Trip, it’s probably not worth your time unless you REALLY want to visit the most southerly point in the UK. The Lizard is a National Trust property- click here to find out more.

Secret places to visit in Cornwall- St Nectan’s Glen

St Nectans Glen is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe. It’s near Tintagel Castle, so you can tie the two in together for a great day out.

This breathtaking series of waterfalls is nestled into a secret gorge and the whole area looks like something out of a fairytale.

To get there, you walk along a path through beautiful woodlands, often following the path of the river, before suddenly arriving in front of the magnificent St Nectan’s Kieve- the main waterfall.

St Nectan’s Kieve is 60ft high and falls through a hole in the rock. It used to be a basin, but the water eventually eroded it into what you see today. 

Many people are unaware of the existence of St Nectan’s Glen- so it’s a lot less crowded and ‘touristy’ than other places in the area- especially in summer, although it’s open most of the year. 

For the best experience, arrive early in the morning and try to be first on the trail so you can experience St Nectan’s Kieve by yourself (and get the best photos!)

Climb Brown Willy- Cornwall’s highest point

Who wouldn’t want to climb Brown Willy…..?!?!?! (oh go on, I know you’re smiling at that one! I couldn’t resist putting this just before the fertility hole below…..!! )

It’s Cornwall’s highest point, which I know isn’t saying much, but it’s a nice stretch of the legs on a summer’s day and the views from the top are magnificent.

Men-an-Tol stone at Morvah- a bit of magic on your Cornwall trip

This is one of those fun things that is STILL on our list, as we didn’t get a chance during this visit. This stone is thought to be from the Bronze Age, making it around 3,500 years old.

There are actually 4 stones in the area, but only one has the hole through the middle. Passing through this hole is said to aid fertility, both for women wanting children and farmers wanting crops… who am I to argue??!

Places to see in Cornwall- Eden Project

The Eden Project is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Cornwall – kids of all ages love it.

There are different sections showcasing jungle, desert and other diverse nature settings. But there is also a zip line (I love ziplines!) Also, big bands regularly play there (think Blondie, Bryan Adams, Muse and Tom Jones!)

Dozmary Pool

This is said to be the pool where the lady of the lake resides. Apparently, it was here that King Arthur received his sword, Excalibur. The pool was once thought to be bottomless, but sadly it’s become much shallower in recent years. In 1976 it dried up completely!! Still, for anyone interested in Arthurian myths and legends, it’s a nice addition to your Cornwall road trip.

Bodmin Moor- road trip to Cornwall legend!

Bodmin Moor is definitely the stuff of legends. Wet, windy and wild, it’s the highest part of Cornwall, and if you can catch it on a good day it’s spectacular.

In 1983, a report was given to the police of a ‘wild beast’ said to be haunting the moor, with ‘sharp teeth like those of a leopard’. Those reports still continue today- don’t say I didn’t warn you…

Golitha Falls

While you’re at Bodmin Moor, visit the nearby Golitha Falls. If this isn’t a place which can convince you of fairies and magic, nothing will!

Bedruthan Steps

Apparently, a giant used to use these steps as a shortcut across the bay… (hmmm, now where have I heard that before!?? Oh yes, at Giant’s Causeway on our Ireland road trip )  Whether you believe in legends or not, this bay is STUNNING with clear turquoise waters and soft sands. Just beware- getting down to it takes some effort, which is why it stays fairly quiet, even in high summer.

Best Beaches in Cornwall

Some of the best places to visit in Cornwall are the beautiful beaches. And they also house some of the best things to do! Beachlife in Cornwall is literally a way of life for many, from surfers to beach combers (and, of course, pirates and smugglers!) You’ll enjoy many sea views on your Cornwall trip, but try to make time for a visit to a beach- or at least a walk on one of the many Cornish coastal paths.

Bude- Cornwall’s best surfing beach?

Bude is right on the border between Devon and Cornwall and is on the North Coast, which is the best side for surfing if that’s what you’re looking for.

The nightlife is much more relaxed than at Newquay and there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, including a sea pool cut into the rock at Summerleaze Beach. Bude has twice been voted best UK Coastal destination – so it does get busy during the summer. If you have time, combine a trip to Bude with a North Devon road trip and enjoy more of the incredible beaches and coastline.

Porth Joke- Cornwall’s best secret beach?

Talking of beautiful Cornish beaches, here’s a secret gem not many people know about.

This tiny cove has incredibly soft sand and, most importantly, is relatively quiet throughout the year- despite the popularity of Newquay only a short distance away.

We were recommended to add Porth Joke to our Cornwall road trip itinerary as somewhere to get away from the people- even in high summer.

The beach is a short walk from the car park and there are no toilets, cafes or other facilities, which is probably why it remains so empty all year round, but it’s definitely worth the effort. 

It’s sheltered on 3 sides, so you’re fairly well protected from the wind, but you can still enjoy some of the famous surf. It’s quite shallow, so safe for swimming or snorkelling (but please be aware of rip tides which are common all along this coastline- don’t let children go too far offshore.) 

There is no shade, so I highly recommend taking a parasol if you’re going to spend the day (and you are definitely going to want to spend the day!) 

Bring a cooler with lots of drinks and food (yes, you’ll need to carry it from the car) and settle down to do nothing but listen to the surf, paddle, poke at rock pools and watch the sunset. Sheer magic. 

Perranporth Beach

Beautiful beach with lots of sand, and a great arch for your Instagram photos. We love it because of this cool arch, the gorgeous sand and the fact that it’s dog-friendly all year around.⁠

Nanjizal Beach- Song of the Sea Cave

This is one of the prettiest coves in all of Cornwall. There are caves and even a waterfall to enjoy as you head to the beach. Directions can be found HERE

Lusty Glaze Beach

I couldn’t not include a beach with a name like Lusty Glaze Beach !! This beach near Newquay is privately owned but you can visit for free. The high cliffs give it some great protection and it offers a huge variety of activities including climbing, abseiling, a restaurant and a creche!

Dogs are banned from May-September. The beach can be accessed at low tide by walking around the headland, or reached by many, many steps (368 apparently!), so plan accordingly!

Fun Activities to do in Cornwall

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cornwall- some more energetic than others! We’ve already included some of the best places to visit on your Cornwall trip, but here are a couple of other fun activities that you can add to your Cornwall trip planner.

Zipwire at Adrenalin Quarry near Liskeard

I love ziplines and this one looks AMAZING!! It zips you 490m across a quarry, over a lake and through/ over various vegetation, at speeds of up to 40mph.

There are twin zip-wires, so you can race your friend! Apparently, they’ve had riders as young as 3 and as old as 90- sign me up!! At Adrenalin Quarry , there is also a wipeout Aqua Park, coasteering, a giant swing and axe throwing!

Surfing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Cornwall- and there are PLENTY of places to get involved. You want to head to the north coast for the better beaches and waves, and if you’re visiting in school holidays I’d recommend booking in advance.

For a fantastic beach with surfing, visit Westward Ho! (yes, the exclamation mark is part of the name). This is one of the safest beaches in Cornwall, and there’s plenty of places to eat, facilities, play areas and surf schools- perfect for some outdoor exercise to keep fit on your road trip !

Silly Surfing for Charity

Every June for one weekend only, Porthmeor Beach (next to St Ives) becomes…well… a bit silly! Surfers dress up in fancy dress and surf; there’s an open-air cinema, as well as many other attractions.

Tickets for the open cinema and other events sell out in advance, so if you’re planning to go please book early. All proceeds currently go to the charity Surfers against Sewage. Porthmeor also has the open cinema at other times throughout the year- you can find out more HERE

Watch silver ball hurling at St Columb Major

I’m a sucker for bizarre and crazy things (like these bizarre European traditions and events!) but this may be the craziest yet. It happens once a year in early February and…well… I’m really not sure I can explain the rules.

Shopkeepers barricade their doors and windows and thousands of spectators flock to watch fully-grown men fight for a ball and try to get it…somewhere. The ‘pitch’ is about 20 square miles, making it the largest pitch for any ball game in the world. Now there’s a fact for the pub quiz!

Fun Places to visit with kids in Cornwall

Here are some ideas for places to take kids (both young and old!) when visiting Cornwall!

Newquay Zoo and animal wildlife park

Like most zoos, it’s a great place to bring the whole family and has a wide range of animals. A current list can be found on their website HERE

Lappa Valley Steam Railway

I’m a sucker for a good steam railway, but honestly, this one is more geared towards younger children. However, there’s also crazy golf, canoeing and playparks, so it’s a great day out to get them exhausted!

Pirates Quest

This is an indoor attraction, which can come in VERY handy in Cornwall (seriously, go prepared for rain.) This exhibition is an hour-long history of piracy, depicted by real-life actors and interactions. It’s only seasonal, so check if it’s open on their website HERE

Flambards Theme Park

One for the kids or a rainy day, but this theme park will put a smile on anyone’s face. There are rides, exhibitions and indoor attractions- perfect whatever the weather!

Travelling with kids? You might find these useful:

• Best children’s car games
• Quiet and fun activities for kids while they travel

Cornwall Road Trip Tips

To really make the most of your Cornish road trip travels, you’ll need several things:

• A Vehicle. Personally, we love travelling by motorhome. If you don’t have your own, you can always hire a motorhome or campervan to give yourself more flexibility for your trip. If not, hire a car and use hotels. We recommend Europcar and Booking.com
• We highly recommend joining the National Trust and English Heritage – even if it’s just for a month if you’re visiting from abroad. They will save you a lot of money if you visit more than one property and the money goes to a great cause- protecting our Nation’s heritage.
• Lastly, don’t forget that there aren’t any motorways in Cornwall. The roads are small and can be very (very!) busy, especially in summer. Plan accordingly and don’t expect to be driving at 70mph anywhere. The weather can also turn quickly, going from warm and sunny to raining and foggy. Be prepared for all eventualities, whatever the weather forecast may say!!
• Most of all, enjoy your Cornwall Road Trip! It’s a stunning part of the world and I hope you have an amazing time. Let me know how you get on.

Want to save this list for later? Here’s the pin. Enjoyed this post? We’d love it if you shared it on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Thank you!

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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20 comments.

We missed visiting Cornwall on our last trip to the UK. Perhaps next time. This will surely come in handy. Great post and super helpful!

Hope it helps when you finally get there!

Wow, this really inspires me to return to Cornwall. I’ve had some fabulous trips there in the past but for some reason I’ve been nipped across the border into Wales more recently instead of heading down to the southwest. Must make my way back in 2019. So much inspiration for new places to try – and a happy reminder of just how much I love Perranporth.

I know- we loved Perranporth too!! But we also love Wales, so I understand your predicament!!

I love your way of writing, put a smile on my face. And that sunset picture, OMG you really wouldn’t think that was in England! Really enjoyed this post and it does make me want to visit Cornwall, my in-laws went last year and really loved it too.

Thank you- I appreciate that. 🙂 I hope you make it to Cornwall soon!

I’ve been to England several times, but I haven’t had the chance yet to make it to Cornwall. I’ve always heard such amazing things about that part of England and now I know why. It looks incredible! I’m definitely saving this for when I can visit the area. I didn’t know there was so much to do in that area. Thanks for sharing!

You’re welcome- hope you get to visit one day.

Can you believe that I’ve lived in the South West of England for a year but never made it down into Cornwall?! I’m so gutted – this post is amazing. There’s so much more to see than I thought (I thought it was just beaches tbh!) how silly of me. Lusty Glaze beach reminds me of a beach back in Australia! Except I suppose it’s a bit more nippy than Aust 😛 Looks stunning though, let’s hope i get to do my own Cornish roadtrip one day 🙂

Nooooo!! You need to go next summer- May/ June is good normally.

Cornwall looks amazing! I once had a roommate from Cornwall…so neat to see some pictures of where he was from! (Being a huge English Lit nerd I always think of it as the birthplace of King Arthur, haha!) I hope I can visit one day. <3

I hope you get there too- it’s a gorgeous part of the world.

Hi Kat and Jade – loved your home movies of the Cornwall trip and it’s really inspiring me! I am coming from France in August to hire a motorvan from Plymouth and do a week moving around Cornwall. I will be with my wife and 3 kids so thought to play it safe at first and have booked a camping place near Lands End for the first 3 days but then thought about going where the road leads us for the rest of the time – including some of the places you mentioned like Falmouth or Bude. But I have a question cos I have no experience of motorhome in UK; do you think we will be alright to find a place to park or pitch up as we move along in August or do you think it’s really necessary to book places in advance? I know it’s a difficult question but if you could just give a sense of how flexible and open it is in Cornwall to find a place to stay spontaneiouly in Cornwall? thanks so much Andy

Thanks for this have saved and downloaded to really go through later. I am so excited to go to Cornwall but we only have 4 days!

Hi Kat I too LOVE Cornwall and agree with most of your suggestions. I’d just like to add a couple of suggestions – first off, Lamora Cove – on the way to Lands End from Marazion (where St Michael’s Mount is). Beautiful cove and cliff top walks. Secondly, if you decide to take in a show at the Minack wrap up warm – whatever time of year it is… I’m talking long John’s, fleeces, coats AND blankets. Trust me – we made the mistake of just a couple of layers!! And finally the Minack theatre overlooks, IMHO, the best beach in Cornwall (and possibly also some of the best history), Porthcurno

Wow! What a great road trip with some amazing places to see and things to experience! I’ve always heard wonderful things about this part of England. Time to make that trip!

Hope you make it one day- it really is beautiful.

This is a great itinerary. I always forget just how big Cornwall is. I have only done St Ives and Lands End so looks like I will need to go back and plan another trip. We got so close to St Michael’s Mount but never saw it which is a shame.

Oh no! How sad to get so close and not see it. Hopefully next time!

There is definitely a great deal to find out about Cornwall. I really like all the places you mentioned.

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12 of the best places to visit in Cornwall and where to stay

There’s more to cornwall than beaches, cliffs and quaint seaside towns. take a dip in a geothermally heated lido, discover ancient neolithic monuments or hike up the tors of bodmin moor.

C ornwall (or Kernow, as it should more properly be known) is quite possibly Britain’s favourite place for a summer getaway. You’ll be hard pressed to find an empty patch of sand in summer, let alone a parking spot (the county’s holiday traffic jams are the stuff of nightmares). But Cornwall is very much a year-round destination these days, and you’ll find it a far more pleasant place to explore outside the peak months of July and August: spring and autumn both have their own pleasures, and winter brings drama in the form of wild waves and booming surf.

Whenever you choose to visit, Cornwall is a place that rewards getting off the beaten track — whether that’s by hiking along the quieter stretches of the coast path or seeking out the ancient remains of Bodmin and Penwith Moors. With the help of an adventurous spirit and perhaps an OS map or two, you’ll find there are still a few Cornish secrets left to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit in Cornwall.

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1. Tintagel Castle

Cornwall has no shortage of castles — Pendennis, St Mawes, Restormel and Launceston all deserve a detour — but for drama, none can match Tintagel. Strewn over an impossibly rugged clifftop teetering over pounding Atlantic breakers, it’s little more than a rubbly ruin these days, but legend has it that this was the birthplace of King Arthur (there’s a cave below where the wizard Merlin was said to have woven his spells). In truth, the castle was actually the work of Edward the Black Prince, who built most of it in the 14th century — although there was almost certainly a hill fort here long before, so the legend could still have a ring of truth about it. Now managed by English Heritage, it’s a memorable place to plonk a castle, although whether the addition of the strikingly modern bridge in 2019 has enhanced or ruined the view is still a matter of fierce local debate.

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Further up the coast is Boscastle, another postcard-worthy harbour tucked between a cleft of high cliffs, perfect for a picnic on sunny days.

Where to stay On the beach at Trebarwith Strand, the revamped Port William pub has simple but serviceable rooms and is owned by brewing giant St Austell Brewery.

Possibly the most mispronounced of all Cornish place names — it’s Foy, for the record, as in boy — Fowey is the south coast’s answer to chi-chi Padstow. Perched on the steep banks overlooking its eponymous river, it’s an undeniably handsome place, with a jumble of colourful houses stretching along the waterfront (best seen along the elegant Esplanade) and a stream of yachts and boats plying the waterway throughout the summer months. Most of the action can be found along Fore Street, Fowey’s main thoroughfare, with shops, bistros and pubs to explore: at one end, the Tudor remains of St Catherine’s Fort guard Readymoney Cove, while at the other, a ferry crosses over the river over at Bodinnick to the coastal village of Polruan.

Fowey’s main claim to fame is its connection with Daphne du Maurier, who for many years rented the grand manor house of Menabilly, thought by many to be the model for Manderley in Rebecca ; the author also lived at Ferryside in Bodinnick, where she wrote several of her early novels.

On the Polruan side of the river, it’s worth following the circular Hall Walk, a tranquil four-miler through valley and creek with incredible views over Fowey harbour. Kayaking is the best way to explore the river scenery: guided expeditions can be arranged from Fowey and Golant, further upstream, with herons, egrets, cormorants, otters and sometimes even seals putting in an appearance.

Further up the coast, the pretty if touristy village of Polperro makes a convenient day trip, as does bucket-and-spadey Looe. There are plenty of beaches to discover en route.

Where to stay Fowey Harbour Hotel is a handsome hotel just a hop, skip and jump from the beach.

3. Falmouth

For 164 years from 1688 to 1852, Falmouth was famous across the world as the home of the Packet Service — the fleet of globetrotting ships that carried mail and goods to the far corners of the British Empire, and which served as the nation’s crucial communications pipeline in the days when Britannia really did rule the waves (“Falmouth for orders” was a phrase familiar to any 19th-century sailor worth their salt). The town’s maritime history is evocatively explored at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, a sister outpost of the original in Greenwich. Famously, Henry VIII’s flagship, the Mary Rose, was built in Falmouth, and the museum contains a fine collection of historic vessels. Nearby Pendennis Shipyard remains an important hub for boatbuilding and repairs.

Though its seafaring heyday has faded, Falmouth is kept buzzing these days thanks to its proximity to Cornwall’s only university. The clippers, luggers and tall ships are long gone, but the harbour remains an arresting sight: it’s the third deepest on the planet, by all accounts, speckled with yachts, sailboats and the occasional cruise ship in summer, with views across the Carrick Roads to the Roseland peninsula.

On Pendennis Point stands Henry VIII’s Tudor castle, designed to guard the harbour in tandem with its sister castle across the water in St Mawes. Nearby sprawls the sandy sweep of Gyllyngvase, the first of a trio of beaches (including Swanpool and Maenporth) that can be reached via the coast path. Meanwhile boat trips putter up the Fal River to Trelissick Gardens, Truro and St Mawes.

Where to stay The smart Greenbank Hotel affords the finest watery views in Falmouth: some rooms even come with a telescope for boat watching.

4. St Michael’s Mount

Just a quarter of a mile offshore at Marazion, near Penzance, is the arresting sight of the old monastery, St Michael’s Mount, rising dramatically out of the waters of Mount’s Bay. It’s connected to the mainland by a cobbled causeway for low-tide visitors and the National Trust-managed rocky island harbours a shop, café and hamlet of cottages. There’s an option to visit the gardens and castle at the summit, filled with a rich collection of historic artefacts and art. Before you leave, look out for the giant’s heart-shaped stone on the pathway, as well as Queen Victoria’s tiny footmark recalling her disembarkation on the harbour’s narrow quay in 1846.

Back on dry land at Marazion, browse the smattering of galleries, join the queue for a pasty at diddy Philps Bakery or have a coffee at the Mount-facing Godolphin Arms and keep an eye out for a pod of dolphins arching away in the far distance.

While you’re here, drop into Penzance for the arts-vibe boutiques of Chapel Street or the lovely Jubilee Pool lido on the seafront, with a section that’s warmed by geothermal heat from underground. Nearby Newlyn is home to Cornwall ’s last fishing fleet, as well as an intriguing art gallery, while tiny Mousehole is pretty as a postcard — even if hardly any residents remain in its stone cottages these days (it’s a notorious hotspot for second homes). Polgoon, an artisan vineyard and orchard just outside Penzance, produces Cornish wines, ciders and juices.

Where to stay Witty decor, upcycled furniture and quirky rooms make Artist Residence Cornwall an entertaining place to stay — and it’s on Chapel Street in the heart of old Penzance.

5. Tate St Ives

If it seems unlikely that a remote seaside spot far from any metropolis should be home to an internationally acclaimed modern art gallery, you’ll feel less inclined to think so when you discover the historical context behind Tate St Ives. In the middle decades of the 20th century, the likes of Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson, Peter Lanyon et al were all part of a progressive art community seeking solace and inspiration in the area’s quality of light and supernatural seascapes. To think that their work is still considered imaginatively abstract today gives some indication of how off-the-scale groundbreaking it would have been in its day.

Ever-changing international exhibitions complement the permanent collections in dazzling white galleries reflecting the luminosity of sea and sky on the beach just outside. Admire Patrick Heron’s stained-glass window near the entrance — floor-to-ceiling and dense with colour — and look out for the work of Alfred Wallis, an elderly, unschooled and troubled artist only discovered by chance when Nicholson passed his cottage just paces from here and was struck by the occupant’s naive-style maritime seascapes using boat paint and any available surface, for lack of a canvas. Enjoy the view from Tate St Ives’ cafe, overlooking the town’s rooftops and the evocative island chapel beyond. Cream teas (jam first) taste better with views like this.

You can do all five of the town’s beaches in one day: surfy Porthmeor, beach-hutty Porthgwidden, tucked-away Bamaluz, buzzy Harbour and genteel Porthminster. Arguably the best vantage point of the wider bay — overlooking Virginia Woolf’s muse Godrevy Lighthouse — is from a train carriage on the branch line from St Erth.

Where to stay Primrose House offers Scandi-inspired decor and a near-to-the-beach position just behind the sands of Porthminster.

• Best beaches in Cornwall • Best things to do in Cornwall

6. Kynance Cove

One mile short of mainland Britain’s most southerly extremity at Lizard Point, Kynance Cove encapsulates all the natural beauty of the Cornish coast in one hit. Inky black cliffs, rust-red serpentine rocks and a cluster of offshore islands to explore make this National Trust-owned stretch of coast hugely popular: it’s brilliant for a blustery coast walk, and with binoculars and a bit of luck, you might well spy Cornwall’s emblematic bird, the red-beaked chough.

There’s a pretty little café down on the cove, but it gets extremely busy in summer, as does the National Trust car park at the top of the hill. Don’t miss a guided tour of the lighthouse at Lizard Point, built in 1752 to warn vessels off the countless treacherous rocks nearby; it’s been automated since 1998.

Back on the road to Helston, look out for a sign for Ann’s Pasties, a fourth-generation maker of Cornwall’s favourite snack-to-go. Northwest-bound, the wave-battered fishing village of Porthleven is worthy of a wander, while you can follow in the footsteps of Cornwall’s smugglers at the area around Prussia Cove.

Where to stay Polurrian on the Lizard is an old stalwart near the village of Mullion, brightened up with modern design, a decent restaurant and clifftop gardens.

• Read our full review of Polurrian on the Lizard

7. The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Thirteen Cornishmen worked at the Lost Gardens of Heligan as groundsmen for the Tremayne family before heading off to fight in the First World War. Tragically, only four returned, and it was in the years that followed that the vast gardens near the south coast of Cornwall slowly became overgrown, before being eventually lost to time. It wasn’t until 1990 that the gargantuan task of restoring them began and a palpable sense of social history emerged: when the head gardener’s office was unearthed, a kettle still sat on the stove: a last cup of tea before downing tools for battle.

Today, the Lost Gardens of Heligan is both fully productive and impossibly photogenic. Botanical surprises include a maze of themed sections such as a kitchen garden; a blossomy archway of apples; a sublime suntrap of an Italian garden; tropical fruit houses; rare breeds; and a wildflower meadow overlooking the sea at Mevagissey. Along with its iconic rhododendrons, perhaps its most photographed garden is the Jungle, with Cornish palms, bamboos, gunnera leaves over two metres high, and a Burmese rope bridge spanning an exotic valley five degrees warmer than the gardens above.

After your visit, head to the nearby pretty fishing village Mevagissey to get hooked on the simple pleasure of crabbing down on the harbour wall. Or park at Portmellon Cove to walk to Chapel Point — if your luck’s in, you’ll see seals.

Where to stay A venerable name on Cornwall’s luxury hotel scene, the Carlyon Bay hotel in nearby St Austell promises plush rooms and a swish spa.

8. The Eden Project

With Cornwall’s industrial heritage as picture-postcard and richly evocative as clifftop tin mines, it’s easy to forget that the county’s riches were also born of china clay production. Now, on the site of a former clay pit near St Austell, the Eden Project’s greenhouses — the largest on earth — present a dramatic and futuristic sight indeed.

Sitting in a 30-acre outdoor garden, the greenhouses — or biomes as they are known — are microcosmic bubbles replicating global ecosystems, with exotic plants, trees and botanicals offering not just the wow factor on a visual level but on an educational level too. This has to be the place to pique the next generation’s curiosity for geography, ecology and sustainability, with the Mediterranean biome, Rainforest biome, plus the Rainforest Canopy taking you high above the treetops.

The small and picturesque port of Charlestown — once a place bustling with industry exporting china clay — is just a short drive from the Eden Project. With its harbour walls still retaining the echo of centuries past, you’d be forgiven for keeping an eye out in case Poldark comes swashbuckling along.

Where to stay Get away from it all with a stay at the Cornwall Hotel Spa & Lodges. Just a few miles from the Eden Project, guests can also take advantage of its Cornwall Spa.

9. Port Isaac

Port Isaac in north Cornwall is easily up there with Mousehole and Polperro among the county’s favourite fishing villages, complete with a mandatory labyrinth of narrow streets clustered around a little harbour. Dotted with the old schoolhouse, the perched whitewashed cottages and the lifeboat station — plus a passageway name as evocative as Squeeze Belly Alley — it’s hardly surprising Port Isaac was chosen as the set for the comedy drama series Doc Martin . You might even be lucky enough to hear the odd mariner’s melody as this is the home of the Fisherman’s Friends shanty-singers.

But, far more than just a TV backdrop and fixture on the tourist trail, it’s still a working fishing village, with lobster pots and painted boats on the slipway, and catch destined to grace the plates of local Michelin-starred restauranteur Nathan Outlaw. Though the harbour — known as ‘the Platt’ — is the big draw, don’t miss the sweeping views on the onwards coast path, keeping the sea on your left.

Heading west? Join the surf dudes riding a wave at Polzeath or explore poet John Betjeman’s beloved stomping ground around Daymer Bay, Trebetherick and the enigmatically remote St Enodoc Church. Over the estuary is Padstow, hub of the chef Rick Stein’s gastronomy, and a ferry will take you there from Rock.

Where to stay Having educated generations of Port Isaac kids, the Old School Hotel has been reinvented as a pleasant, unpretentious stay on the edge of the village.

10. Bodmin Moor

Though most drive straight over Cornwall’s craggy rooftop, this spooky landscape of heath, granite, tor and bog deserves more attention. Famous as the setting for Jamaica Inn and for the mysterious cat-like Beast of Bodmin Moor, it’s Cornwall’s wildest, weirdest landscape — sister to the similarly stark moors in Penwith to the west and Dartmoor to the east, and like them, littered with prehistoric remains. Covering 80 square miles, it’s a wonder for walkers: popular stops include the clattering Golitha Falls and the cute-sounding village of Minions — home to both the ancient Hurlers stone circles and the precariously balanced rock formation known as the Cheesewring. But it’s the Moor’s twin peaks — Brown Willy (420m) and Roughtor (400m, pronounced row to rhyme with cow ) — that draw most ramblers. The surrounding area is littered with neolithic remains, and on a clear day, it’s possible to see both coasts.

If two wheels are more your thing, mountain-bike trails abound around Cardinham Woods or there’s the lesser-known leg of the Camel Trail: not the Bodmin to Padstow stretch that everyone knows, but the Bodmin to Blisland, the finish line near a Camra pub of the year. Bodmin itself was the site of Cornwall’s most infamous jail — now reinvented as a macabre tourist attraction (complete with eerie cells and execution pit). For something less sinister, the National Trust’s Lanhydrock is a magnificent Victorian country house and estate, with miles of trails to wander.

Where to stay St Tudy Inn is a renowned gastropub-with-rooms in the small moor village of St Breward. The food is excellent.

11. Minack Theatre

We’re right to be wary of man’s interventions on unspoiled landscapes but here in the far, far west, above Porthcurno beach, mankind and nature once came together in perfect harmony. Back in the 1930s, the lone figure of Rowena Cade — trowel in hand — assured her place in Cornish history by building a stage, balconies and amphitheatrical seating right on the clifftop at the end of her garden. Plays have been performed here ever since and the only real danger is that the dramatic sight of a moonlit Logan Rock across the water upstages the cast every time. But, you don’t have to book a show to visit — the theatre is open during the day (outside for showtimes) for visitors. Be sure to head down the steep steps to the beach after you’ve finished — it’s a regular feature in lists of the UK’s top-ten beaches on account of its vivid-blue seas and tropical-looking sands.

Where to stay For wonderful sea views and coastal gardens, head to the Old Coastguard Hotel on the outskirts of Mousehole.

oldcoastguardhotel.co.uk

12. Bedruthan Steps

Newquay is the home of Cornish surfing, and a fine spot to learn the sport — although the town’s brash, boozy character definitely won’t be to all tastes. Regardless of what you make of the town itself, it serves as the gateway to a string of majestic sandy beaches — including Crantock, Holywell Bay, Lusty Glaze, Watergate Bay and Mawgan Porth — which sun-seekers make a beeline for in summer (expect crowds, and lots of them). An alternative is to follow the coast path out to the stately pillars of Carnewas, also known as Bedruthan Steps, a series of towers carved out by the sea from the surrounding cliffs over countless millennia. They’re best seen at sunset, when the the rock is lit up in fiery, glowing colours.

Where to stay Watergate Bay Hotel is a family favourite, with plenty of watery activities on offer, and a prime spot beside its namesake beach.

watergatebay.co.uk

• Luxury hotels in Cornwall • Cornwall’s best hotels

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The 10 prettiest villages in Cornwall

By Zoe Cook

With whitewashed cottages, colourful fishing boats, glittering waters and pretty harbours,  Cornwall  is home to some breathtakingly photogenic destinations. From inland havens on the river’s edge to dramatic coastal resorts, here are ten of the prettiest villages to discover in Cornwall.

1. Mousehole

Imagine an idyllic Cornish fishing village and chances are you’re picturing Mousehole. Its narrow streets are lined with independent shops , galleries and tempting cafes, while its pretty harbour is filled with colourful boats. Walking a couple of miles along the Coast Path from Mousehole will lead you to the turquoise waters of Lamorna, a secluded and spellbinding cove well worth the journey. Or come for the famous Christmas Lights which illuminate the village each winter adding even more magic to this chocolate-box haven.

Where to stay: Chapel House, Penzance

The Lizard Peninsula’s largest village, Mullion lies on a ruggedly beautiful  coastline , dotted with popular beaches and secret coves. Cafés, shops, delicatessens, and  art galleries  make its streets a hive of activity and an ideal spot to pick up supplies before exploring. A mile away, Mullion Cove is spectacular and not to be missed. This  National Trust  harbour is atmospheric and dripping with history, its dramatic stone walls offering sanctuary from stormy seas. Don’t leave without making the climb up the cliff path above Mullion Cove, it reveals breath-taking views across this stunning part of Cornwall.

Where to stay: Mullion Cove Hotel

Meander through Fowey’s winding streets, stopping for artisan coffee , browsing the art and antiques, or indulging in afternoon tea , and admire glimpses of the striking estuary that finally bursts into glorious full view when you reach the harbour. Still a busy port, Fowey truly bustles with activity. Taking the foot ferry across to pretty Polruan and climbing the hill, passing quaint cottages and gardens overflowing with blue hydrangea, is rewarded with panoramic views of Fowey and beyond. Fowey makes an ideal spot for a day’s shopping, dining, sailing, and exploring.

Where to stay: Fowey Hall

Rock is one of Cornwall’s north coast gems, a scenic, surfy , sunny resort which comes alive each summer, bursting with energy and good vibes. It’s a brilliant base to explore this particularly wonderful stretch of Cornish coastline. About an hour’s walk by Coast Path leads to Polzeath, one of Cornwall’s best beaches, and a pleasant ferry ride across the Camel Estuary to Padstow. In Rock itself there are shops and cafes, and endless sparkling sea views. The Mariner’s pub has been transformed by chef Paul Ainsworth into a fantastic place to eat and drink, with a high end, yet laidback, menu and a gorgeous terrace which overlooks this charming Cornish destination.

Where to stay: St Enodoc Hotel

5. Port Isaac

Traditional and charming, Port Isaac is one of Cornwall’s most photogenic fishing villages . White-washed cottages and granite slated houses line the alleyways that lead down to the scenic harbour. There is a timeless beauty here and you can truly sense the village’s rich history as you walk its streets. There is a great selection of pubs, hotels, cafes, and shops to explore. Now home to two restaurants by renowned chef, Nathan Outlaw, Port Isaac is also a sublime location to enjoy delicious local seafood and Cornish produce.

Where to stay: Outlaw’s Guest House

6. Kingsand and Cawsand

Among the last remaining hidden treasures of Cornwall are the delightful twin villages of Kingsand and Cawsand, on the splendid Rame Peninsular. Cawsand’s pastel-toned seafront and Kingsand’s gin-clear waters offer a picturesque and peaceful Cornish escape. Rockpools beg to be explored, there are paddle boards to hire, or for something more serene – get cosy in a traditional seaside pub and sip a pint of local cider. The ocean city of Plymouth is only a ferry-ride away, with its charming Barbican quarter, Royal William Yard and the striking views of Plymouth Hoe to discover. Though Kingsand and Cawsand are so enchanting that you might not want to leave at all.

Where to stay: Moorings, Toad Hall Cottages

It’s hard to find as unspoilt a spot as Portloe. Snuggled away in a tranquil valley, it is widely considered the jewel of the Roseland peninsula, and rightly so. Its remoteness has helped to preserve an authentic, ageless appeal. This is a place to slow down and enjoy a relaxed, Cornish pace of life as you soak in a stunning palette of greens and blues. Like much of Cornwall’s south coast, there are incredible views from the Coast Path in every direction - nearby Goran Haven is particularly lovely at sunset.

Where to stay: The Lugger

8. Helford Passage

There is something uniquely romantic about the Helford River, a peaceful beauty that draws people to its shores. Nestled between arty Falmouth and the stunning Lizard Peninsular, Helford Passage is surrounded by subtropical scenery, and fringed by beautiful woodland. Its famous Ferryboat Inn is a perfect spot for a cool drink on a hot day, especially after exploring the local area, rich in wildlife and ocean views. A series of small, unspoilt beaches line the river’s edge, and water sports are popular and well catered for. For an example of inland Cornish beauty, Helford Passage is hard to beat.

Where to stay: Hotel Meudon

Olivia Morelli

Anna Prendergast

9. St Mawes

Spectacular sea views at every turn and an abundance of wonderful hotel and restaurant options make St Mawes one of Cornwall’s most beautiful and exclusive villages. Situated on the Roseland peninsular, St Mawes enjoys a distinctly Mediterranean feel, with a year-round mild climate and a colourful array of flora and fauna. St Mawes manages to feel both impeccably Cornish and almost exotic all at once, and it is, quite simply, unmissable.

Where to stay: Hotel Tresanton

10. Polperro

Polperro is a dazzling little fishing village with a particularly enchanting harbour. Colourful boats bob on the turquoise waters, protected by imposing stone walls.  Colourful, traditional Cornish buildings line its streets, with inviting cafes, galleries, and gift shops at every turn. As you descend further into the village a sense of history envelops the ever-narrowing alleys, full of pretty cottages and ancient pubs. When you emerge onto the harbourside the scene bursts into technicolour, an iconic panorama which is quietly magical and quintessentially Cornish.  

Where to stay: Talland Bay Hotel

Must-see attractions in South Cornwall

Eden Project

South Cornwall

Looking like a cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain's lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project have…

Lost Gardens of Heligan

This is Cornwall's real-life secret garden. Formerly the family estate of the Tremaynes, Heligan's magnificent 19th-century gardens fell into disrepair…

Grandly located at the head of the Fal estuary, 4 miles south of Truro, Trelissick is one of Cornwall's most beautiful aristocratic estates, with a formal…

A great bulk of rock topped by a picturesque clifftop chapel, Rame Head is another of Cornwall's most majestic coastal viewpoints, with a jaw-dropping 360…

St Mawes Castle

Strategically sited to command an uninterrupted field of fire over the entrance to Falmouth Bay in tandem with Pendennis Castle, on the opposite side of…

Whitsand Bay

Small coves dot the coastline of the Rame Peninsula, but for a proper stretch of sand, this huge – and undervisited – bay is the place. Pronounced…

Potager Garden

It's a bit of a drive from Falmouth but this gorgeous kitchen garden near Constantine is well worth the detour. Rescued from dilapidation by its current…

Charlestown Shipwreck & Heritage Centre

Charlestown's seagoing heritage is explored at this fascinating museum, which houses a massive collection of objects and ephemera recovered from more than…

Cornish Seal Sanctuary

The ‘ah’ factor goes into overdrive at this sea-life centre in Gweek, about 12 miles drive from Falmouth along the Helford River. It cares for sick and…

Port of Charlestown

It's been off-limits for many years to everyone except film crews, but since spring 2017 Charlestown's historic port has reopened to the public. You can…

Caerhays Castle

On the hills above the gentle crescent of Porthluney Beach, this crenellated country mansion was originally built for the Trevanions and later remodelled…

Trebah Garden

Trebah Garden was planted in 1840 by Charles Fox, younger brother of Alfred, who established nearby Glendurgan Garden. It's less formal, with gigantic…

Pendennis Castle

Designed in tandem with its sister castle in St Mawes across the estuary, this Tudor castle sits proudly on Pendennis Point, and was built as part of…

Truro Cathedral

Built on the site of a 16th-century parish church in soaring Gothic Revival style, Truro Cathedral was completed in 1910, making it the first cathedral…

Restormel Castle

High on a hilltop above Lostwithiel, 9 miles from St Austell on the A390, the ruined castle of Restormel was built by Edward the Black Prince (the first…

Glendurgan was established by Alfred Fox in the 1820s to show off the many weird and wonderful plants being brought back from the far corners of the…

Looe Island

A mile offshore from Hannafore Point is densely wooded Looe Island (officially known as St George's Island), a 9-hectare nature reserve and haven for…

Cawsand & Kingsand

While many of the coastal villages have become gentrified to the point of being unrecognised, these twin villages still genuinely feel like the fishing…

St-Just-in-Roseland

The creekside church of this sleepy village is quite possibly the prettiest in Cornwall – and in this ecclesiastically minded county, there’s no shortage…

This glorious country estate is the family seat of the Earl of St Germans. The Grade I–listed house is open for three months of the year; guided tours of…

Clinging to a spur of contorted rock surrounded by barren heath, the curious tumbledown chapel on top of Roche Rock looks like a forgotten set from Monty…

National Maritime Museum

Falmouth's most high-profile museum is located on the revamped area around Discovery Quay. It's the sister outpost of the National Maritime Museum in…

Dodman Point

Thrusting into the English Channel, the Dodman (or the rather more macabre Deadman, as it's nicknamed by shipwreck-wary sailors) is the highest headland…

Mount Edgcumbe

Encompassing 350 hectares, this Grade I–listed estate was built for the Earls of Edgcumbe, but is now owned by Cornwall and Plymouth City Councils. It's…

Enys Gardens

The definition of a secret garden (especially since it's only open three days a week), this handsome estate is said to be one of the oldest in Cornwall –…

Vault Beach

For acres of sand near Mevagissey, Vault is the choice, but it's not everyone's cup of tea. The walk down from the nearby NT car park is long and steep;…

Hemmick Beach

This perfect pocket of golden sand lies to the west of Dodman Point, between Penare and Boswinger. The access road is steep and narrow, and parking next…

Maenporth Beach

Maenporth is the quietest of Falmouth's beaches, with facilities including a cafe, kayak centre and restaurant, the Cove. The 1978 wreck of the Scottish…

Porthcurnick

A popular family beach near the port of Portscatho, which has become even more frequented thanks to the success of its beachside cafe, the Hidden Hut…

Swanpool Beach

South of Falmouth lies the popular beach of Swanpool, near a small inland lagoon populated by grebes, coots, ducks and mute swans. A coastal path runs…

Antony House

Owned by the National Trust and occupied by the Carew-Pole family, this house's main claim to fame is its decorative gardens, designed by the 18th-century…

Carne & Pendower

These twin side-by-side beaches form one of the Roseland's largest areas of sand at low tide. It's brilliant for beachcombing and rock-pooling – look out…

Talland Bay

Along the coast path between Looe and Polperro is this small sheltered beach, which makes a great spot for swimming at both low and high tide, with inlets…

Four miles southeast of Lostwithiel is another quaint and ancient village, Lerryn, which sits on the banks of the picturesque creek with which it shares…

Gorran Haven

There's not much to see in this sleepy south-coast village, save for a smattering of seasonal shops and tea-rooms, but the seaside setting is undeniably…

Royal Cornwall Museum

Collections at the county's main museum encompass everything from geological specimens to Celtic torques and a ceremonial carriage. Upstairs there's an…

St Anthony's Head

The remains of a turn-of-the-century gun battery can still be seen along the point at St Anthony's Head. Just along the coast is the peninsula's 1835…

The twin beaches of Great and Little Lantic sit side by side on the coastline between Polruan and Looe. They're remote, but worth the effort to reach,…

There's nothing much to this coastal village, other than a cluster of cottages, a couple of fishing boats and a cobbled slipway, but that's all part of…

Pannier Market

The city's cheap-and-cheerful covered market, good for a bargain browse. Shops come and go, but the current selection includes a pet shop, a vintage vinyl…

More destinations you need to see

The best beaches in Cornwall

C ornwall has 300 miles of some of the most beautiful and varied coastline in Britain : long strands of golden sand, hidden coves with salt-and-pepper pebbles, and rockpools teeming with marine life.

Much of the coastline is owned by the National Trust and long-standing Cornish families who play a valued role as guardians against inappropriate development. ‘Porth’ is the Cornish for beach, so any place on the map that has porth in its name will have one – certainly at low tide. When swimming, beware of undertows, especially on north coast beaches. Larger beaches are usually patrolled by RNLI lifeguards from April to October.

For further Cornwall inspiration, see our guides to the region's best  hotels , restaurants ,  pubs , things to do ,  cream teas ,  walks  and  how to plan the perfect holiday .

The North Coast

This fine sandy beach is around the headland from fashionable Polzeath. It’s best visited at low tide, when the firm sand is perfect for beach games and building sandcastles. Children can paddle here safely on calm days and will love exploring the rockpools. There is no lifeguard service. In summer, there’s a glorious view across the Camel estuary to fields of golden corn. The poet John Betjeman loved this beach and is buried at St Enodoc Church in the dunes behind. Dogs are welcome year-round, and the coastal path from Daymer to Polzeath is accessible for wheelchair users and pushchairs.

Getting there:  There's a large car park 1.6km south of Polzeath.

Watergate Bay

Watergate, to the north of Newquay, has two miles of fine golden sand and reliable surf. It’s a great place for beginners to learn to surf or paddleboard under the direction of well-trained instructors at Wavehunters . It also runs daily beach fitness and beach yoga classes in summer. Too much like hard work? Watch the action over cocktails or lunch at the Beach Hut. Online reservations at watergatebay.co.uk .

Getting there:  Follow signs to Newquay Airport and carry on towards the sea. There’s a large car park above the beach.

Perranporth

The wide swathe of sand at Perranporth comes into its own at low tide, when you can play football, build sandcastles, or swim in the sun-warmed waters of Chapel Rock’s natural tidal pools. All-terrain wheelchairs can be hired in the village to explore the beach. At mid tide, the beach is a great place to learn how to surf: Perranporth Surf School offers individual and group tuition, including family lessons. Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round (a rarity), but must be on a lead from 10am-5pm in summer. At the day’s end, The Watering Hole  and  Alcatraz  – are lively places to watch the sunset.

Getting there: The B3284 into Perranporth can get busy, but there are several large car parks around the village.

West Cornwall

Gwithian towans.

This wide, unspoilt arc of dune-backed sands is located to the east of Hayle. At low tide there’s a vast beach with rockpools and caves to explore. It’s a favourite with surfers because the swell is consistent, and there are waves for all abilities – with the size of the swell increasing towards Godrevy lighthouse. Sunset Surf Cafe (next to Gwithian car park) serves delicious lunches and has a well-stocked wetsuit and board shop. At the Godrevy end of the beach there’s a National Trust car park on a grassy clifftop. Common seals are a regular sight in the water and on the rocks, as there is a breeding colony around the headland. Lifeguard cover runs daily from mid-May to late September, and during Easter and October half-term.

Getting there: Leaving Hayle on the B3301, the beach road is a left turn after a mile or so.

Beaches of soft golden sand surround this old fishing harbour. Below the railway station is sheltered Porthminster, where you can rent a paddleboard and enjoy lunch in style at the Porthminster Café . Near the peninsula, the sea laps gently on the sand at funnel-shaped Porthgwidden, making it ideal for families. But for a good Atlantic wave – or a dose of culture at Tate St Ives  – head for Porthmeor Beach. Book ahead for a place at the very popular St Ives Surf School  which also offers paddleboard and kayak hire and coasteering excursions. At the western end, West Beach serves superb stone-baked pizzas and barbecued fish. All of the beaches have lifeguards from Easter to October.

Getting there: Parking in town is very limited. It’s best to take the park-and-ride from St Erth station – a scenic 10-minute train ride around the bay.

The most photographed beach in Cornwall, this sandy cove is caught between golden granite cliffs – with water so clear that you can see fish swim by. At low tide it's possible to walk around the cliffs to other coves (one is popular with naturists), swim to a sand island, and clamber over an Iron Age cliff castle at Treryn Dinas. The beach is overlooked by the open-air Minack Theatre , whose café has a bird’s eye view of the beach. Porthcurno is where the submarine telegraph cables beached: the award-winning Museum of Global Communications explains their importance in international communication past and present.

Getting there:  It’s a 10-minute walk through the dunes from the large car park.

South Cornwall

Kynance cove.

This masterpiece of coastal erosion near Lizard village has attracted tourists since the 18th century. Large stacks of dark red and green marble-like serpentine rock rise from the crescent of pale sand, and are revealed in their full glory at low tide. At high tide there is very little beach left exposed. Kynance has featured as Nampara Cove in the BBC series Poldark,  with moorland riding scenes filmed on its clifftop. The beach café, run by a local couple, is open April-October.

Getting there:  The cove is a 10-minute walk down from the clifftop National Trust car park.

Porthluney Cove

Tucked away down narrow lanes between Porthscatho and Mevagissey, this large beach is south-facing and privately owned (but open to the public). There’s no lifeguard, but it is a sheltered bay and the swimming conditions are good. Porthluney has a seasonal café, and dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads from June-September. Behind the beach sprawls Caerhays Castle , built in the Norman style: its gardens are open to the public from February to mid-June, and there are guided tours of the house on weekdays from March-June.

Getting there: Arrive early in high season to get a space in the car park beside the sands.

Lansallos Beach

A small peaceful cove of sand and shingle, Lansallos is located two miles west of Polperro and can be reached by walking across the fields from a small National Trust car park. It’s a great place to hunker down for the day with a good book and a coolbox. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year, and there’s a wonderful walk westwards along the coastal path to Polruan – overlooking the Fowey estuary. On the stroll back, take the inland path via the pretty church of St Wyllow at Lanteglos, where Daphne du Maurier was married.

Getting there: The beach is a 20-minute walk from the National Trust car park in Lansallos village.

How we choose

Every attraction and activity in this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from world-class museums to family-friendly theme parks – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Will the Northern Lights be visible again this week?

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This weekend was the first time in 20 years that displays of the aurora borealis could be seen across the UK so clearly , even visible over London’s light pollution.

Friday night offered the most spectacular display, with Saturday also giving a catch-up for those who missed it.

But what about if you missed the lights over the weekend: is it too late now?

Unfortunately, the answer is probably yes – although the chance is generally still higher than normal, because the sun is in a period of high activity.

This is not only because the massive solar storm that sent charged particles colliding with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere has now died down.

It’s also because the weather conditions are not as favourable, with rain clouds now making it harder to see compared to the clear skies at the weekend.

Will we see the Northern Lights again this week?

We asked Professor Jim Wild, space physicist from the University of Lancaster, if there was still a possibility of spotting the lights from our back gardens.

He said that if anyone had been awake around 5.30am on Monday morning, they might have had some luck as there was some activity then.

But only the most diehard light-spotters would have been up early or late enough for that possibility, and even then it would not have been the kind of dazzling displays on view over the weekend.

He said that although activity was now returning to baseline levels, it wouldn’t take much from the Sun to send more towards earth.

‘It all depends on what the Sun does in the next couple of days,’ he told Metro.co.uk .

‘Those amazing displays on Friday night into Saturday morning were triggered by solar activity that launched material from the Sun last Wednesday, and it took a couple of days to cross space and get to us.

‘Over the weekend, a couple more of these clouds of material arrived from the Sun – not quite so big or so powerful, but they did trigger some more display.

‘At the moment that activity is subsiding, but we know there are potentially some more of these clouds of material on the way, and the Sun could emit more again because it is especially active at the moment.

‘So I wouldn’t say no, there’s no chance, but I think Friday and Saturday were the main events.

Can the northern lights cause disruption too?

The general public may be most excited by the pretty photos, but governments are more likely to be concerned about effects on infrastructure when a massive solar storm erupts.

While this weekend’s was the biggest for 20 years, it’s by no means the biggest we know about.

That was the ‘Carrington Event’ in 1859, the most intense geomagnetic storm on record, which was about three or four times larger than this one.

It caused disruption even without society being reliant on electricity, and if something on that level happened now it would interfere with satellite and radio communications, and could introduce electrical currents into power grids, railway lines and pipelines and interfere with those operations.

This week, systems seem to have emerged pretty much unscathed but the need to build resilience is something industries will have been thinking about, Prof Wild said.

‘We’re gliding down in activity and we’d need something to re-energize the system if we were to see those kind of displays again.’

It is hard to predict the exact activity of the Sun, but the good news is that any major solar flares will not cause the aurora to begin immediately, but give a day or two notice.

‘If the sun does something powerful today then that could be with us within 24 to 36 hours,’ Prof Wild said.

How to find out when the Northern Lights will be visible

If people want to avoid missing out next time it happens, they can sign up for alerts from AuroraWatch UK which has a four tier system from green (nothing likely to be seen) to yellow (may be visible in Scotland and the north only) to amber (photographs likely from anywhere in the UK) and red (visible by eye anywhere in the UK).

Prof Wild said that if people receive an automated alert and want to see if they’re really likely to see anything given weather conditions etc, a simple way is just to to search on social media for northern lights/aurora and their location – as anyone who spots them is likely to want to share them.

If there’s a chance of seeing them, visibility will be best away from sources of light pollution and in the night when skies are dark enough. Don’t forget that cameras will pick up the lights more easily than the naked eye, especially if the shutter is set to a long exposure.

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With Instagram flooded with spectacular aurora images, many won’t want to wait another 20 years for a chance to see them from their own homes.

Prof Wild, who has studied the aurora in the far North as part of his research, illustrated just how incredible this weekend’s lights were when he said: ‘I’ve seen displays at high latitude in the Arctic that weren’t as good as what I saw from Lancaster last weekend.’

But don’t get too disheartened if you missed it, as they weren’t the best he’s ever seen, which were so bright they cast a shadow on the ground.

If you had your camera prepared to try get the shot tonight, don’t get your hopes too high but also be on alert in case things change.

A Met Office spokesperson said that even if the sun starts things up again, though, ‘the chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis in the UK is waning.

‘Add into that the fact that there is a lot of cloud over the coming days the chances of seeing the phenomena is unlikely now.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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