best time to visit cornwall uk

Best Time to Visit Cornwall: By Season, Weather, & Costs

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If you’ve ever wondered where English people go to get that much-needed Vitamin D without leaving the notoriously cloudy (but charming) island, the answer is unequivocally Cornwall.

And for good reason! Cornwall is a county located in the southwest of England, United Kingdom, and is known for its pretty coastline, rich history, unique culture, and a sort of “ is this the UK?! ” jaw-droppingly gorgeous landscapes.

Cornwall is also highly, highly seasonal – so the best time to visit Cornwall will be in the summertime , even better in very early fall.

So let’s dive into the weather by season, costs, and a few little activities I recommend – including a festival – towards the end!

Table of Contents

Overall Best Time To Visit Cornwall

The best time to visit Cornwall depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for warm beach days and a vibrant atmosphere, go during the summer. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the autumn.

I think the spring is still quite chilly to visit, and the winter is out of the question… masochistic.

💡 Quick Disclaimer – just keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for varying conditions regardless of when you visit.

I visited Cornwall in late May, and it was still a bit chilly. But the sun was out!

When is the best month to visit Cornwall?

The best month to visit Cornwall largely depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and activities.

Generally, the summer months (June to August) are the most popular times for tourists due to warmer weather and a variety of outdoor events and festivals. However, this is also when Cornwall can be quite crowded, and accommodation prices will most definitely be higher ($200-$300 a night).

If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (late May) and early autumn (September). During these months, you can still enjoy relatively pleasant weather, especially in September, and you’ll have a better chance of experiencing Cornwall’s natural beauty without the summer crowds.

Keep in mind that Cornwall’s weather can be unpredictable even during the summer, so be prepared for some rain and pack accordingly.

Pro Tip: It’s also a good idea to check for any local events or festivals !

What is the hottest month in Cornwall?

The hottest month in Cornwall is typically July.

During this time, temperatures tend to be the warmest due to the influence of the maritime climate, with the surrounding ocean moderating temperature extremes.

This is what summer in St. Ives looks like.

Is Cornwall warm all year?

Absolutely not. Cornwall is pleasant and warm, starting from June to early September at best.

What is high season in Cornwall?

In Cornwall, the high season generally falls during the warmer months and when kids are on vacation. So basically, from July and August.

If you decide to go around this time, here are some practical tips:

Plan your road trip to avoid traffic. It’s about a 4-5 hour drive out from the London area, and it can sometimes feel like all of England is heading west. Plus, there is only one lane in each direction, so backups happen.
Book accommodations ahead of time. It will be packed, and you’ll want to be in walking distance of the beach or the town you’re staying in, because parking will also be a hassle.
If you’re taking the train to Cornwall, book this early too! Ticket prices go up the longer you wait. This is what we ended up doing, and we booked our tickets 2 months in advance.
Check out the Boardmasters Festival dates , and decide if you want to go or avoid the crowds and price hikes!

Early summer in Cornwall is still ok when it comes to crowds.

Best Time To Visit Cornwall By Season

I would recommend visiting Cornwall in the summer and early fall. Here is a breakdown of what the weather looks like and what activities are best, season to season.

Cornwall In The Summer ☀️

June to August is the most popular time to visit Cornwall due to the warmest and most stable weather – the sun is out, and lots of buns are out with it!

The temperatures are generally pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Summer is my favorite in Cornwall – it’s great for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor exploration. People are out and about, the countryside and the little Cornish ports are bustling!

Keep in mind that this is also the busiest tourist season, so popular attractions can be crowded, and accommodation will be more expensive.

Cornwall In The Fall 🍁

September and early October in Cornwall offer milder weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer.

The temperatures are still relatively comfortable, ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F).

This is a great time for exploring Cornwall’s scenic landscapes, coastal walks, and charming villages. Just remember to pack a coat and some boots with you – winter is coming!

Cornwall in the fall is still nice, but the weather will start to turn.

Cornwall In The Winter ❄️

Cornwall’s winters, November to February, are mild compared to many other parts of the UK, but it can also be quite rainy and windy.

From a Texas girl’s perspective, these winters are wet and chilling to the bone. The temperatures average around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).

Also, keep in mind that a lot of the attractions and accommodations, even restaurants, might be closed or have limited hours during the winter.

Cornwall In The Spring 🌷

Spring, from March to May, can be an OK time to visit Cornwall as the flowers bloom and the landscape becomes vibrant green.

The temperatures start to rise, although they can still be a bit chilly, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).

The perk is that It’s generally less crowded than in the summer months, making it a good choice if you prefer a quieter experience. Just pack a raincoat and a pair of gloves.

What Is Cornwall Known For

Here is what Cornwall is known for, in a nutshell, but pay attention to the pictures too!

✅ Cornwall is renowned for its diverse landscapes , ranging from pretty beaches and rugged cliffs along the coast to rolling hills and moorland inland. It is bordered by the Celtic Sea to the north and west and the English Channel to the south.

✅ Cornwall has a distinct cultural identity shaped by its history . It was traditionally known for its mining industry, particularly tin and copper mining. The remnants of these mines are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The county also has strong ties to Celtic heritage and language.

👉 Did You Know: The Cornish people have a strong sense of identity and often consider themselves distinct from the rest of England. The Cornish language, once in decline, has experienced a revival in recent years.

✅ Cornwall is famous for its cuisine as well. The region is known for its pasties (a type of savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables), clotted cream, and fresh seafood, including the iconic Cornish pasty.

Eating like queens in Cornwall during the early summer months.

✅ Cornwall is also great because it has many outdoor activities , including surfing, hiking along the South West Coast Path, exploring hidden coves, and enjoying water sports such as kayaking and sailing.

✅ Cornwall hosts a few festivals and events throughout the year as well, celebrating everything from arts and literature to music and food.

Nowadays, tourism is the major industry in Cornwall, attracting visitors from within the UK and around the world who come to experience its natural beauty, the UK summer vibe, and unique culture.

Best Places To Stay In Cornwall

The best place for you to stay depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some popular options:

St Ives: Known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and quaint streets, St Ives is a favorite among visitors. It’s a perfect blend of art, culture, and coastal beauty.
St. Mawes : It doesn’t make the list of “top places” for most people, but I loved this little village. And so did Queen Elizabeth, according to the locals! And if it’s good enough for the queen, it’s good enough for me!
Newquay : If you’re a fan of surfing and beach activities, Newquay might be your ideal spot. It’s a vibrant town with a lively atmosphere and some of the best surfing beaches in the UK.

Remember that Cornwall is a popular tourist destination, so it’s advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Whether you’re looking for a seaside cottage, a boutique hotel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, Cornwall has a wide range of options to suit various preferences and budgets.

Best Places To Visit In Cornwall

Cornwall is home to numerous charming towns and villages and a few little castles, gardens, and mountains that are worth visiting.

Some of my favorite towns and villages include:

St. Ives: A popular coastal town known for its artistic community and stunning beaches.
St. Mawes: One of my favorite villages, known for picturesque coastal landscapes, sandy beaches, and clear blue waters.
Newquay : A surfing hotspot with beautiful beaches and a lively atmosphere.
Penzance : A historic port town and gateway to the Isles of Scilly.
Truro : The administrative center of Cornwall and its only city.
Falmouth : A maritime town famous for its harbor and maritime heritage.

Views of St. Mawes from our trip to Cornwall in the late spring.

Here are a few landmarks and attractions I recommend going on a road trip to see:

St. Michael’s Mount : A tidal island with a historic castle, accessible by foot during low tide. Make sure to grab a ticket beforehand!
The Eden Project : A unique attraction featuring massive biomes housing different ecosystems and plant species.
Tintagel Castle : Associated with the legends of King Arthur, this castle is perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea.
Minack Theatre : An open-air theatre built into the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the ocean in the summer.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan : Once abandoned, these gardens have been restored to their former glory and are now a popular tourist destination, especially for families!

How many days do you need in Cornwall?

When I went in late Spring, I stayed about a week in the towns of St. Ives and St. Mawes, and it seemed perfect.

Here’s a rough guideline for you to gauge how you want to plan your trip:

➡️ Short Trip (2-3 days)

If you’re limited on time, you can still get a taste of Cornwall’s beauty and culture. Focus on visiting one main town, such as St. Ives, Padstow, or St. Mawes.

You’ll have time to explore local beaches , enjoy some coastal walks, and experience the region’s culinary deliciousness.

➡️ Moderate Trip (4-6 days)

With a few more days, you can delve deeper into Cornwall’s highlights. Explore 2-3 towns and villages along the coast, visit popular attractions like the Minack Theatre, Land’s End, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, and hell – if the sun is out, go kayaking or hiking.

➡️ Extended Trip (1 week or more)

Now we’re talking! To truly experience the best of Cornwall, especially if you want to explore its nooks and crannies, consider staying for a week or more.

This will give you the time to immerse yourself in the local culture, make some local friends, have a favorite coffee shop, take your time exploring different parts of the coast, and even venture slightly inland to experience Cornwall’s rural beauty.

Remember that Cornwall’s weather can be quite changeable due to its coastal location, so having some flexibility in your itinerary can be helpful.

In The End: Summer is the Best Time To Visit Cornwall

Overall, Cornwall is a captivating area that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty – which is especially on display in the summer months and a bit of early fall if global warming calms its pace.

I would go so far as to say that Cornwall is one of my favorite regions in the United Kingdom when it’s warm – yes, even more so than Scotland !

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

Best time to visit Cornwall: when should you go?

The best time to visit Cornwall is going to depend on your individual circumstances but hopefully this post should help you to judge when you want to book your holiday here.

I’ve visited as a tourist in many different seasons and now that I live in Cornwall I can see it every month of the year. There are pros and cons to each month and each season.

If you have kids of school age the answer is going to be different to a young couple with no kids, a solo traveller or someone with toddlers. What you like to do will dictate which month is best. Who you are travelling with might also dictate just when you can go as well.

But, if you really want an answer to the question of when to visit Cornwall, here goes:

The best time to visit Cornwall is in June or September when the weather is still good but it’s not as busy. There are no school holidays and no bank holidays making the county busy.

Let’s dive into the seasons and see what the benefits and restrictions of each one are. Hopefully that will help you to discover the perfect time for you to go on holiday to Cornwall!

I’m compiling posts about each month and season in Cornwall – I’ll link from here when they are complete!

When is the best time to go to Cornwall?

Each season has its pros and cons for visiting. That might be the weather, the busyness of the county or maybe the events and things to do that are going on. Let’s take a look at each one.

Kynance Cove in Lizard, South Cornwall in Spring

(In Progress) Check my articles about each month and season in Cornwall: March April May Visiting Cornwall in Spring

One of my favourite times of the year to visit Cornwall is Spring but it has it’s difficulties when planning a trip here with all the bank holidays around.

I love Cornwall in Spring for the abundance of flowers around and the freshness of the air. You can get some stunning days in Spring, it can sometimes be warm enough to paddle in the sea (last year we were paddling in April) and everything is open for the season.

Weather in Spring in Cornwall is definitely becoming warmer but not too stifling. You’ll get plenty of rain though, don’t worry about that!

You’ll find lots of flower festivals at this time of year and gardens are a joy to explore. Food festivals start popping up too so if you want to enjoy some Cornish food this can be a good time to come.

What lets Cornwall down in the Spring when planning is trying to stay away from all of the busy periods that are around which can also push prices up.

Easter is the start and the two weeks that schools are off can start to become busy. There are two bank holiday weekends in May as well when even those who are kid free decide it’s time for a break from work.

weather is improving
dogs are allowed on most beaches still
attractions are almost all open
Festivals and events start
School holidays and bank holiday weekend are busy
Prices start to increase for the busy periods

Bedruthan Steps on North Cornwall coast in July

(In progress) Check my articles about each month and season in Cornwall: June July August Visiting Cornwall in Summer

The time of the year when Cornwall is at its busiest. A combination of good weather (hopefully!) and schools being off for 7 weeks means that it’s the best choice for many people making Cornwall their holiday destination.

June is one of my favourite times of the year in Cornwall and probably my pick for the best month to visit Cornwall. You can see amazing wildflowers all over the county, like the poppies at Polly Joke . The whole place is just really pretty in June and the weather is great.

Early July can see some families come to the area, especially since Scotland’s school holidays are earlier than the rest of the UK’s, but it’s still a more pleasant time to come than late July and the whole of August.

While schools are off, from mid July to end of August, it’s the busiest time. That brings traffic issues, parking can be hard at attractions and queues for food and things to do. The drive when getting to Cornwall can be hard, Saturdays can often have really bad tailbacks throughout Cornwall, Devon and the motorways leading and leaving the South West.

August bank holiday is at the tail end of the month and can be one of the busiest weekends of the year.

In saying that, high season means that eveything is open. You’ll find events taking place like the Royal Cornwall Show, Boardmasters in Newquay and also lots of kid friendly things to do everywhere.

For those that have kids wanting to spend time at the beach or people wanting to learn to surf you’ll find a plethora of surf schools and the major beaches will all have extensive lifeguard cover.

While Cornwall is really busy and the crowds can be frustrating it has a great vibe at this time of year too.

Early summer has a riot of wildflowers around. It’s really stunning
A lot of beaches have lifeguard cover
The weather is the best in the summer
Attractions and restaurants are all fully open. Lots of pop up food options.
Lots of events, music and food festivals and things to do
July and August are the busiest months
Accommodation prices are highest in Summer
Some sites, like Eden Project, have higher entry costs in high season
Although weather is the best in summer you can get weeks of solid rain – it’s not guaranteed
Roads are very busy with caravans, motorhomes and tourists

Person walking in Cardinham Woods near Bodmin in Autumn

(In progress) Check my articles about each month and season in Cornwall: September October November Visiting Cornwall in Autumn

After the craziness of summer, autumn starts to calm down again and cool down as well.

September is one of my favourite months to visit Cornwall because you get the benefits of the summer (weather and attractions) while enjoying a much quieter experience and having much cheaper accommodation and more choice too.

Up until the beginning of October the weather is still really warm, you get really nice days that will make you question whether it’s actually Autumn!

Some attractions will wind down in Autumn with opening hours possibly restricted to weekends.

Beaches where dogs were restricted in the summer months start to be open again for them so it’s a great time of year to visit with dogs too.

Autumn doesn’t have any bank holidays so there’s no worry about fitting yourself around those but you do have a school break at the very end of October and around Halloween that you should bear in mind if you want to avoid kids.

Prices drop and much less busy
Still lots of attractions open at the beginning of the season
gorgeous colours when the leaves turn – tends to be in October/November, a little later than the rest of the UK
Days start to draw in and evenings are getting longer
October half term can push prices up again
Attractions might be slowing down or reducing hours – you’ll have to keep an eye on them
Weather can be more unpredictable

Christmas tree at beach near Newquay Cornwall

(In process) Check my articles about each month and season in Cornwall: December January February Visiting Cornwall in winter

The cheapest time to visit Cornwall is in the winter months but what to gain from cheap prices will be offset that the county is a very different place than in high season.

Christmas and New Year sees a slight spike in visitors but it’s not nearly as bad as the other bank holidays through the year. You might find the beaches are busy on Christmas Day, Boxing day and New Years day but nothing too bad. The weather is normally not so good that people spend all day there.

The weather in Cornwall in winter is generally grey and damp. It rarely gets cold enough for snow, in fact I’ve hardly ever seen any here, but you might do on the high points of Bodmin Moor.

Clear, sunny days are also plentiful but you need to make the most of them when they are here. Weather forecasts can be unpredictable and it can change depending on where you are in the county.

Short days mean that if you’re coming here on holiday you’ll need to compress all your sightseeing into a shorter time.

Winter is great if you’re looking for a romantic Cornwall break with plenty of cottages with open fires and evenings spent in cosy pubs.

Quietest time of the year to visit Cornwall
Cheapest time to visit
Dogs can visit most beaches
Many attractions have limited opening hours. Some close down completely.
Days are shorter
More storms and bad weather
Some places are like ghost towns.

Cornwall in January: what is it like to visit in the New Year?

With biting cold breezes coming in from the sea tempting you to retire to an open fire, January can be a wonderful respite from the ‘real world’ if you visit at the beginning of the year. January in Cornwall, like much of the winter months, can bring storms, damp days, days with never ending rain…

Guide to visiting Cornwall in November

November in Cornwall can bring storms, cold and short days which is why it’s not one of the most popular times to come down. It does have a number of things going for it though so if you’re considering visiting Cornwall in November here’s our guide to the county at this time of year. Like…

Visiting Cornwall in Winter – what you need to know

Cornwall is a stunning place to visit at any time of the year but in the winter months hold a special place in my heart. So if you’re planning on visiting Cornwall in winter and have some questions about it I hope that this post will help you out and encourage you to come and…

Visiting Cornwall in September: tips for a late summer trip

September is high on my favourite times to come to Cornwall and was one of my tips when I was talking about the best times to visit Cornwall. If you’re considering visiting Cornwall in September here’s our guide to the county at this time of year. It’s a really great time to visit for many…

Your guide to visiting Cornwall in February – 2023 guide

Recently updated for 2023! February is a wonderful time to visit Cornwall for many reasons but I think the best reason is that it’s so quiet down here compared to other times of the year. Winter in Cornwall is a fun time to holiday here for all. I’ve experienced Cornwall through all the months of…

October in Cornwall – what is it like to visit?

With cooling weather and visitor numbers, and a sneaky little school break at the end, October can be a really popular time to come and visit the South West. If you’re considering visiting Cornwall in October here’s our guide to the county at this time of year. The days are really beginning to shorten which…

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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!

The charming village of St Ives is a great place 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!

A 1 Week Cornwall Itinerary + Tips for your Cornwall Trip

Last updated: December 15, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 5 Comments

The county of Cornwall in the UK has beautiful beaches, lovely countryside, and some spectacular coastal vistas. So it should come as no surprise that a trip to Cornwall is a popular option for both holidaymakers in the UK and visitors from overseas. Today, I’m going to share a suggested detailed Cornwall itinerary with an overview of things to do in Cornwall in a week.

I actually grew up in Cornwall, and spent many of my formative years exploring the county. More recently, since our time living near Bath in the UK, Cornwall has been a nearby county for short breaks.

I think Cornwall has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway with some beach time, a more active holiday featuring surfing, hiking, or cycling, or want to explore some ancient historical sites, Cornwall has something for you. It’s also home to a massive range of accommodation options, from cosy remote cottages to seaside bed-and-breakfasts.

In this post, I’m going to share with you everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Cornwall.

First, I’m going to answer some questions about Cornwall that you might have. Then, I’ll share a suggestion of an itinerary for a week in Cornwall. This list of things to do covers a range of activities that should easily fill a week in Cornwall, but you can of course adjust it to your own timeframe and interests.

Finally, I’ll share some advice to help you get the most out of your Cornwall trip, including tips on where to stay in Cornwall.

We’d suggest also looking at our guide to things to do in Cornwall , which has a comprehensive list of ideas for what to get up to in this beautiful English county.

Let’s get started with this guide to things to do in Cornwall in a week!

Where is Cornwall?

Cornwall is a county in England, found in the very south west of the country. It borders Devon but is otherwise essentially a long peninsula, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean.

It’s around 230 miles from London, 150 miles Bristol, and 300 miles from Manchester. If you are coming here from London, you are looking at a 5 hour drive or train ride from the capital.

How To Get to Cornwall

Our recommended option for getting to Cornwall is to drive. This will give you the greatest flexibility in terms of sight seeing when you are there.

Cornwall is well connected by road with a mix of dual carriageways and motorway connecting the county to the rest of the country. Do be aware though that it is a popular destination and at certain times of year, particularly around school holidays, the roads can get quite congested.

From London it’s around a 5 hour drive, and from Bristol it’s around 3 hours. Of course, these drive times will vary depending on which part of the county you are visiting.

Cornwall is also well connected by rail, with a fast rail connection running from London to Penzance in just over 5 hours. You can also reach Cornwall via train from many other parts of the country. Check train timetables and book your train tickets online here .

You can also travel by coach to Cornwall from locations around the UK. This will generally take a bit longer than the train, but might be a better option depending on where you are travelling from. You can check coach prices and timetables across a number of operators here . We also recommend National Express and Megabus , both of which offer a wide range of routes across the country.

You can also fly to Cornwall from other parts of the UK as well as some overseas locations. The main airport in Cornwall is Cornwall Airport in Newquay. You can then either rent a car or use public transport to get around.

Another option for getting to Cornwall is to take a guided tour. These usually run for a number of days and will generally include your transport and tour guide, as well as accommodation. For example:

This 5 day tour from London includes Devon and Cornwall as well as a number of other popular attractions in the southwest. We’ve taken multiple tours with Rabbie’s and always had a great time.
This 7 day tour from London includes Cornwall as well as Devon, the Isle of Wight and many other attractions along England’s beautiful south coast

How to Get Around Cornwall

You have a number of options for getting around Cornwall, which are:

Driving yourself
Taking public transport, which includes bus and train services
Taking a taxi
Taking a tour

Driving yourself in Cornwall

The easiest way to get around Cornwall is to drive yourself. This will give you the most flexibility for sightseeing.

Most visitors to Cornwall who drive do so in a car or a motorhome. The latter is a popular option if you want to camp or have more flexibility over where you stay. If you want to hire a motorhome, we recommend checking prices on the Spaceships website and Motorhome Republic , which should give you a wide range of options.

If you do drive in Cornwall, there are a few things to bear in mind. First, many of the roads in Cornwall are single track country lanes, so if you aren’t used to driving on these you might want to read my guide to driving on single track roads .

Second, at certain times of year the roads do get busy with holiday traffic. If you are visiting at a busier time of year, prepare to spend a bit more time travelling between locations due to the possible traffic.

Finally, for visitors with cars, parking can often be an issue at busy times of year. Most attractions, including the picturesque villages, do have parking lots available which operate on a paid basis. Be sure to bring plenty of coins for these, as they don’t all accept card or mobile phone payments.

Note that many attractions in Cornwall are operated by the National Trust, including a number of beaches and coastal areas, and National Trust members get free parking at these car parks.

If there is an attraction you are visiting and it’s a busier time of year, we’d recommend giving yourself plenty of time to find a parking spot.

If you’d rather not drive, you still have a number of other options for getting around Cornwall.

Public Transport in Cornwall

The public transport network in Cornwall is quite comprehensive. A bus network covers the majority of the county. In addition, many of the pretty coastal towns like Looe, Falmouth and St. Ives are connected to the fast mainline rail line with scenic branch lines. You can see a map of these here .

You can certainly get around the majority of Cornwall by public transport, however it will definitely take longer than driving yourself. Depending on the type of trip you want to do, and the amount of sightseeing you have in mind, you might find it works for you or doesn’t. For timetables and journey planning, see the traveline south west website here .

There are also specific tourist buses in Cornwall, which can be an excellent option. For example, the Lands End Coaster operates from St. Ives to Lands End, stopping at a number of scenic points along the way, and connecting with the St. Ives and Penzance train and bus stations. This is an open top hop on hop off route, and is a great way to get around this part of Cornwall without a car.

Similar hop on hop off bus services in Cornwall include:

the Atlantic Coaster , operating between St. Ives, Newquay and Padstow
the Falmouth Coaster , which operates around Falmouth
the Lizard , which runs from Helston around the Lizard peninsula

FirstBus also runs a series of buses under the DayTripper network name. These routes are specifically designed for visitors and link up attractions across Cornwall by bus, including locations like the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the Eden Project, Lanhydrock and many more.

Prices for the DayTripper service are very reasonable, and give you access to the whole network. You can find out more and book tickets for these services here .

Overall, it is certainly possible to tour the majority of Cornwall by public transport, and arrive in Cornwall by public transport. So don’t feel you need a car to have an amazing adventure in Cornwall!

Cycling in Cornwall

Another option if you are feeling fit is to cycle. You can either bring your own bike, or you can hire one. The county is popular with cyclists and there are a number of cycle routes, some of which you can see here .

Taxis in Cornwall

You can also take a taxi to get from place to place. There are a number of providers, and your accommodation provider will normally be able to advise on a good local operator. Just bear in mind that this can be a pricey option if you need to move around a lot.

Guided Tours of Cornwall

Another option as mentioned above is to join a guided tour from a larger city like London to visit Cornwall which will include a guide and all your transportation. These trips may just focus on Cornwall or may include a number of locations around the southwestern part of England. For instance this 5-day tour includes a visit to several locations in Cornwall and Devon plus a visit to Stonehenge.

Or you can arrive in Cornwall yourself but take tours – either individual day tours or a longer tour. For example, you can put together a custom tour like this if you have a specific destination in mind that you want to visit during your time in Cornwall. Or you can book a multi-day tour that will pick you up from the airport or your hotel like this one .

See more tour suggestions further on in this planning guide.

What is There to do in Cornwall?

There is a huge amount to see and do in Cornwall, certainly something for everyone.

The county is known for its spectacular coastline and gorgeous beaches, meaning it’s popular with beach goers, swimmers, and surfers, as well as people who enjoy walking, camping, and cycling.

There’s lots more beyond stunning beaches and coastline though. From cute fishing villages through to historical sites and attractions, delicious food, and interesting museums, Cornwall really does have something for everyone. See our list of things to do in Cornwall for more ideas!

How Long Should I Visit Cornwall For?

We’d recommend visiting Cornwall for at least three days, such as over a long weekend. However, a better amount of time would be around a week which would give you more time to see more of Cornwall’s highlights.

To give you an idea of what to do during that week, see our suggested itinerary below for a week in Cornwall. Of course, should you choose to stay for longer, there’s plenty to keep you occupied!

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cornwall?

The most popular time of year to visit Cornwall is over the summer months of July and August. This is when the weather is most likely to be warm, and also coincides with the majority of school summer holidays in the UK. With lovely beaches and swimming, Cornwall makes for a popular holiday destination for families.

If you’d prefer to avoid some of the crowds but still get some warmer weather, then the months of May, June and September would be our suggested time to visit. These months should be a little less busy, whilst still affording you plenty of good weather to enjoy the outdoors.

Of course, Cornwall can be visited at any time of year, it’s just a question of preparing for the weather and dressing appropriately. It’s also worth being aware that even if you visit in the summer months, rain and cooler weather is very much a possibility. So always be prepared, and perhaps plan for some indoor attractions for part of your visit just in case!

1 Week Cornwall Itinerary Ideas

First, I’m going to share a suggested itinerary for a week in Cornwall, and then I’ll go into more detail about the recommended featured attractions so you can make a plan that suits you.

Day 1 – Tintagel Castle, and the fishing villages of Boscastle and/or Port Isaac
Day 2 – Hiking on Bodmin Moor & visiting Charlestown Port and its museum
Day 3 – Eden Project
Day 4 – Coastal Hike or Beach Day
Day 5 – Land’s End, Geevor Tin Mine, & Mousehole
Day 6 – St. Michael’s Mount and Lizard Point
Day 7 – Coastal Hike or Beach Day

Detailed Guide to Things to do in Cornwall in a Week

To help you plan your time in Cornwall, we’ve put together this list of suggested attractions that you could fill a week in Cornwall with. Of course, there is plenty more to see and do in Cornwall, so you could definitely spend more time in the county or fit more in to your week.

Alternatively, if you’d rather spend more time on the beach or relaxing, that’s fine too! You could just pick one or two of the attractions that interest you, and spend the rest of your holiday how you wish.

Here are our suggestions for some of the attractions you might consider visiting during your Cornwall trip. These are arranged in approximately the same order that they appear in our Cornwall itinerary above, although we have grouped some attractions together like the fishing villages or beaches as you might not want to visit all of these.

Tintagel Castle

If you like legends or castles (or both!), then you’re going to want to include a visit to Tintagel Castle on your trip to Cornwall.

Found on the northern coastline of Cornwall next to the village of Tintagel, this ruined medieval-era castle is closely linked to the legend of King Arthur. This connection was re-enforced and romanticised in the poetry of Alfred, Lord Tennyson, as well as a number of other Victorian-era writings.

Whether or not you believe the legend, Tintagel Castle is well worth a visit. It’s actually on a small island-like peninsula, which is connected to the mainland by an impressive bridge. There aren’t a lot of castle remains to be seen, but those that are there are interesting. A walk around the island is also very rewarding, and the views up and down the coast are spectacular.

Tintagel Castle is operated by English Heritage, and it’s free for members. Otherwise there’s a fee to visit. You can find out more about prices and opening hours on the official website here .

Tintagel Castle is close to Bodmin Moor as well as the fishing village of Boscastle (see the entry on fishing villages for more on this). There are also a number of beautiful hiking trails along the coast here.

Fishing Villages in Cornwall

Fishing has been central to the Cornish economy for centuries, and it is still very much a part of modern Cornish life.

Many of the villages in Cornwall are located where they are due to natural features that make for a good harbour. The village then spreads around this harbour which remains the focal point and heart of the community. The result is usually a very picturesque village clinging to the edge of the land, which has both historical and cultural significance.

We highly recommend visiting at least one of these cute fishing villages in Cornwall. They’re picturesque and pleasurable to walk around, and they also often have nice shops and restaurants where you can pick up a souvenir or locally produced meal.

There are of course many cute fishing villages dotted all around the Cornish coastline to choose from. Some of our favourites include:

Polperro – found on the south-east Cornish coast, Polperro is a beautiful little fishing village. The coastal walk to Looe via Talland Bay is also excellent.
Charlestown – on the south coast of Cornwall near the town of St. Austell, Charlestown is a beautiful 18th century fishing village and commercial port used to export china clay. The harbour is beautiful and is usually home to a number of tall ships, and there’s a fascinating museum here that tells the story of shipwrecks around the world. It’s also been a filming location for a number of movies and TV shows, including Poldark .
Mousehole – found on the south west Cornish coast near the town of Penzance, Mousehole is a really gorgeous fishing village with a range of local shops and a pretty pale sand beach. It’s been an important fishing location from at least the 14th century.
Port Isaac – one of the most popular fishing village to visit in Cornwall, partly due to it featuring in the Doc Martin TV series as the village of Portwenn. Found on the northern coast of Cornwall, this has a beautiful natural harbour and lovely coastal views, but expect it to be busy.
Boscastle – the tiny village of Boscastle on the northern Cornish coast is famed for its stunning natural harbour which is formed by a narrow inlet. Much of the village and surrounding lands are owned by the National Trust , who have an informative visitor centre on site.

Of course, there are many more picturesque fishing villages to discover in Cornwall, and part of the fun of a trip here is to discover some of these for yourself.

Most of these fishing villages are near some of the other attractions in our list, so we’d recommend combining a visit to one of these fishing villages with another stop or two.

For example, Mousehole is near Land’s End and Geevor Tin Mine, whilst Boscastle and Port Isaac are quite close to both Tintagel and Bodmin Moor.

Mousehole fishing village harbour Cornwall

Bodmin Moor

One of my favourite memories from my time growing up in Cornwall were the various walks we took on Bodmin Moor. This is a large expanse of granite moorland which cover 80 square miles of the county, and it’s a wonderful place to hike and enjoy nature.

There are a number of features which make Bodmin Moor an interesting place to visit. First, being a granite moorland means that it is home to a number of “tors”. These are basically large freestanding granitic outcrops which jut out of the ground. The highest of these is Brown Willy, which is the highest point in Cornwall at 1,368ft.

As well as hiking and the fun photography opportunities that the rock outcrops present, another reason we enjoy Bodmin Moor is to see the ponies that roam freely. There are around 1,000 of these present on the moor, and with their thick fur and shaggy manes they are very pretty.

Overall, spending half a day or more on Bodmin Moor is a day well spent in our opinion. There are plenty of hikes to choose from, and the views from the tops of the tors across the county are spectacular. It’s also a great place for star gazing, and I in fact watched the 2020 comet from the top of one of the peaks here.

Eden Project

One of Cornwall’s most well-known visitor attractions is the Eden Project. The site consists of two massive enclosures which are formed from a series of overlapping geodesic domes.

The largest of the two enclosures is the tropical biome. This covers an area of almost four acres, and is home to what is essentially an indoor rainforest. It’s the largest indoor rainforest in the world, and within you’ll find a huge range of tropical plants, from coffee and bamboo to banana and rubber. As you would imagine, this biome is kept at a warm and humid temperature year round.

The Mediterranean biome is smaller, at 1.6 acres, and inside you’ll find a range of temperature climate plants such as olives.

As well as the two massive covered biomes, the Eden project is also home to a large outdoor botanical garden. This has Europe’s second largest redwood forest, as well as a great many other plant species. There are also a number of art installations on site.

All in all, there is lots to see and do at the Eden Project, and you could easily spend a half day or longer on site. You can find out more about opening hours and admissions fees at the official website here .

Take a Hike

An activity we always enjoy when we travel is taking a walk or a hike. Cornwall is a wonderful place for everything from a gentle stroll to a multi-day hike. The coastal paths in particular are fantastic, offering endless vistas and secluded coves and beaches to explore.

Good options include the hike from Portreath to Hayle, which provides the opportunity to see seals around Godrevy lighthouse, or the shorter coastal hike from Looe to Polperro.

We also love the stretch of coastal path from the Botallack mine ruins through to Pendeen Lighthouse, which has a number of interesting old mine buildings as well as lovely coastal views and bird viewing opportunities.

There are also inland walks of course, including walks across Bodmin Moor as I mentioned earlier in this guide. One popular walking / cycling trail near Bodmin Moor is the Camel Trail which follows the Camel river along a former railway line.

If you’re looking for some walking inspiration, this list of walks is a great starting point.

Land’s End

In our opinion, no visit to Cornwall is complete without a visit to Land’s End, the most westerly point in both Cornwall and England. There is just something about standing on the beautiful coastline here, and getting that “edge of the world” feeling.

Land’s End is a busy tourist attraction. That’s not anything new though – tourists have been coming here to see the western edge of England for at least 300 years! So as long as you are up for some crowds, we think you should follow in their footsteps.

There are a few things to do at Land’s End. First, there’s the famous signpost which you can pay to have your photo taken at. Next, there’s a little museum which covers the history of the “End to end” route, which is basically the journey from Land’s End in England to John O’Groats in Cornwall. This is a route that has been covered thousands of times over the years via a wide range of transportation methods.

If you are visiting with family, there are some fun attractions geared to kids and families. These include Arthur’s Quest , a 4D film experience , and a 200 year old farm where you can interact with a number of animals.

There are also shops, places to buy snacks and food and of course, magnificent coastal views to enjoy. Land’s End itself is free to visit, but parking and most attractions do have a fee. Find out more on the official website here .

Land’s End is close to Mousehole, a popular fishing village, as well as Sennen Cove, a stunning beach. It’s also close to the next attraction on our list, and combining these two activities into one day out would make for a fun filled day!

Mining History

As well as fishing, another natural resource has been exploited in Cornwall for thousands of years, and that is tin. Tin is a metal which has been mined in Cornwall since at least 2150BC, with the last tin mine closing in the county in 1998.

The heyday of Cornish mining was the 19th century, with tin and copper being the primary metals mined. At the time, this was one of the richest mining locations in the world, and at it’s peak over 600 steam engines were powering over 2,000 mines across Cornwall.

Tens of thousands of men were employed in the Cornish mines, with many of these men later to emigrate overseas when the Cornish mining industry began to decline.

Today, the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognises both the sites themselves, as well as the expertise that was exported worldwide.

To understand some of the history and heritage of mining, we would recommend visiting one of the preserved mines in Cornwall.

There are a number of these that you can visit, with our recommended mine being the Geevor Tin Mine . Found in the St. Just mining district around 30 minutes drive from Land’s End and Penzance, a mine has operated here since the late 18th century. The Geevor Tin Mine itself was operational from 1911 until 1990.

It’s operated today as a museum and heritage centre, and is the largest preserved tin mining site in the UK. There’s an excellent museum on site, and you can walk through many of the buildings to learn about mining and life as a miner. In addition, you can walk through “Wheat Mexico”, an 18th century underground mine.

There’s a fee to visit Geevor Tin Mine, and you can read more about opening hours and prices on the official website here .

Go to the Beach

A huge draw for visitors to Cornwall, especially those with children, are the spectacular beaches on offer all around the coast. Cornwall has over 250 miles of coastline, and over 300 beaches to choose from! So wherever you are in the county, you’re likely to be quite close to a gorgeous beach.

Many of these beaches feature gorgeous golden sands and turquoise waters, and many also offer safe swimming (although the water isn’t going to be quite as tropical a temperature as they look!).

In addition, many of the beaches in Cornwall, particularly those on the north side of the county, offer excellent surfing conditions. Cornwall is a very popular surfing destination in the UK, and it’s a good place to learn to surf as well.

If you’re looking for a beach in Cornwall, this site has a good list where you can filter by things like whether or not the beach has a lifeguard or toilets nearby.

St. Michael’s Mount

Just off the southern coast of Cornwall near the town of Marazion is the island known as St Michael’s Mount . This island is accessible at low tide across a granitic causeway, and is home to a medieval church and a castle, as well as a community of people.

You might be thinking this sounds somewhat familiar. There is an island just off the French coast called Mont St. Michel , which is also home to a famous abbey and a church. This is not a coincidence, as the same order of Benedictine monks were responsible for developing both islands into places of worship.

Today, St. Michael’s Mount is managed by the National Trust, and is open for visitors. At low tide you can walk across the causeway to the island, which takes around 15 minutes, or you can take a boat. On the island you can explore the garden, castle and church.

Entry to St. Michael’s Mount is free to National Trust members, otherwise there’s a fee for visiting. You can read more on the official site here . We’d recommend allocating at least three hours to your visit.

Lizard Point

Continuing south from St. Michael’s Mount will bring you on to the Lizard Peninsula and the Lizard Heritage Coast area. There are many beautiful beaches and coves in this area, such as Poldhu beach, as well as some excellent coastal walks.

One popular attraction on the Lizard Peninsula is the Lizard Point. This is the most southern point of mainland Britain and England, and is a popular tourist attraction. It’s free to visit and is operated by the National Trust.

Another interesting location that is worth a visit on the Lizard Peninsula are the Marconi sites. These include the Marconi Centre and the Lizard Wireless Station at Bass Point. It was from here that Marconi undertook wireless experiments, and from where he broadcast the first transatlantic radio message.

The Marconi Centre is open for visitors and is free, with donations appreciated.

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Cornwall has a huge range of holiday accommodation options, from hotels and B&B’s to self catering cottages to glamping and camping sites. You can pick a cute seaside village to stay in, or somewhere more central.

In our experience, properties closer to the sea or a good beach tend to be more expensive, whilst those inland can offer better value for money. If you visit during the busier summer months, expect to pay more and plan to book well in advance as properties can go fast. Cornwall can be a pricey destination as it is very popular.

When it comes to location, Cornwall is not huge, but it can take a couple of hours to drive from one end to the other. So you will have to decide if you prefer to pick a location to base yourself from for the duration of your holiday, or if you want to move around a bit if you are there for a longer period of time.

If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing around the county, you might want to split your time between two base locations so you can explore different parts of Cornwall from different locations and reduce driving time.

There are pros and cons to each approach. If you pick a single central location you won’t have to pack up and relocate part way through your trip and it can save you money as longer stays can be more cost effective than shorter stays.

We enjoy staying in the area around Bodmin as this puts us close to many attractions, but if you want to be closer to beaches you’d probably prefer a more coastal location.

It is good to think about if you want to be able to walk to a beach or to restaurants, or if you prefer to be in a more rural spot and perhaps want to cook your own meals. This will help you narrow down your lodging time and location preferences.

As I mentioned, there are a number of different accommodation options. I’ll cover some recommendations for each category below.

Hotels & B&Bs in Cornwall

Here are some well-reviewed hotels and B&Bs across a variety of budget located in different parts of the county that we think could work for our itinerary:

St. Christopher’s Inn – Newquay is a popular haven for surfers, and this hostel is well located by Towan Beach. It also has it’s own surf school if you’re looking to learn. Both private and shared rooms are available, most with en-suite, and there’s a bar and restaurant.
The Pityme Inn – found in the town of Wadebridge under two miles from Polzeath beach, this well-reviewed 3* Inn offer en-suite accommodation with an on-site restaurant and bar.
Clifftop Ensuite Double B&B -situated in the heart of Newquay right on the beach front, this well reviewed B&B offers good value simple accommodation with everything you need on your doorstep
The Jamaica Inn – this inn on Bodmin Moor, which dates from 1750, was made famous by a Daphne du Maurier novel of the same name. A popular attraction in its own right, the property features en-suite rooms as well as a bar, restaurant and museum. A great option on Bodmin Moor. We’ve stayed here and enjoyed it.
The Plume of Feathers – found in the central village of Mitchell, this well rated 16th century coaching inn is well situated for exploring most attractions in Cornwall. Rooms are en-suite and there’s an on-site bar and pub
Primrose House St. Ives – just metres from Portminster Beach in St. Ives this highly rated guesthouse in an Edwardian Villa offers boutique en-suite rooms, some with sea views. A fantastic location and a lovely property
The Penellen Bed and Breakfast – this four star beach front B&B in Hayle offers spectacular views from it’s en-suite rooms.
The Wellington Hotel – this 3* hotel is just 10 minutes walk from the fishing village of Boscastle and is well located for exploring some of north Cornwall’s attractions. Lovely en-suite rooms get great reviews and there’s an award-winning restaurant on site as well as a bar.
Crown House & Lodges B&B – a well reviewed 3* B&B in the south west of Cornwall near the town of Helston. Convenient for The Flambard Experience, the property has en-suite facilities and offers a shared lounge and kitchen for guests.
The Lewinnick Lodge – set on a stunning clifftop location just minutes drive from Newquay, this boutique hotel offers incredible views and luxurious accommodation.

As you can see, there are plenty of options to consider, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. For many more options, click here to see all the listings for Cornwall on booking.com.

Self-Catering & Holiday Cottages in Cornwall

There are of course a lot of options when it comes to accommodation in Cornwall. Our preference for a week long trip like this would be to book a self-catering cottage. Sites we’d suggest you try out include:

Snaptrip’s Cornwall Listings . Snaptrip searches many of the holiday cottage booking providers in the UK to get you the best price
Sykes Holiday Cottages Cornwall listings – we’ve used Sykes on a stay in Cornwall before and found a lovely rural property through them on our last visit
The Plum Guide Cornwall properties – the Plum Guide focuses on really high quality properties, and whilst they don’t have the breadth of choice, they certainly have some fantastic options on their books
Booking.com Cornwall listings – our favourite for booking hotels when we travel, booking.com also have a wide range of holiday cottages available

If you are looking for a holiday cottage and need more options to choose from, see our guide to the best holiday cottage booking websites in the UK for more choices.

Glamping Sites and Campsites in Cornwall

Cornwall is of course a very popular destination for camping, with a wide range of campsites available. These range from basic sites with limited facilities where you need to bring all your own accessories, through to higher end Glamping sites where you can hire cabins or yurts.

There are of course many options to choose from, here are some well-rated suggestions.

Fir Hill Glamping Yurts – just near Newquay, this campsite offers lovely yurts which feature real beds and kitchenette, as well as access to shared facilities including bathrooms, BBQ facilities and lounge.
Looe Yurts – these are found just near the fishing town of Looe. A small number of comfortable yurts are on offer with real beds and log burners. Shared facilities include bathrooms and a kitchens.
Tehidy Holiday Park Wigwam Camping Cabins – if you love the idea of camping but prefer a real bed, en-suite facilities and luxuries like a TV, then check out these beautiful and highly rated camping pods in the south west of Cornwall.

Of course there are hundreds more options to choose from. Useful resources for finding campsites in Cornwall include the Cool Camping website and the UKCampsite website .

Tours in Cornwall

If you have a specific interest in a particular subject or attraction, you might want to book a tour that includes this attraction. A tour can be a great way to get insights you might not otherwise be able to get, plus they are usually a lot of fun.

In addition, depending on where you are travelling from and how you plan on getting around, you might find that booking a tour is a great way to visit a number of attractions without having to drive yourself.

There are a number of tours in Cornwall, which range from just a few hours to multi-day tours. Here are some to consider when you are planning your Cornwall trip.

Day Tours in Cornwall

This 1 hour hot air balloon flight will give you a unique perspective as you float over Cornwall and it’s sure to be an experience you won’t forget!
Poldark lovers will enjoy this private full day tour of many of the filming locations from the show. Tours can also be totally customised to your preference.
If you’d like to put together a totally custom private tour, this tour will let you do just that. A great option for a day out with a tour guide that’ll save you from driving or having to plan public transport
This full day private tour covers both the Doc Martin filming locations and Tintagel Castle, as well as a number of other scenic locations in Cornwall.
This full day private tour visits many of the attractions on and around Bodmin Moor, with a focus on some of the Neolithic sites in the area as well as a number of other scenic locations

Multi-Day Tours of Cornwall

If you’d like a longer tour of Cornwall which also includes your accommodation, check out this 3 day private tour which can be fully customised to your interests. Departures from locations around Cornwall.
This 5 day small group tour from London includes Devon and Cornwall as well as a number of other popular attractions in the southwest. We’ve taken multiple tours with Rabbie’s and always had a great time.
This 7 day small group tour from London includes Cornwall as well as Devon, the Isle of Wight and many other attractions along England’s beautiful south coast

There are 5 comments on this post

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30th October 2022 at 11:56 am

Hi we r thinking of going next summer but stay in one place for 3 days and go out travel places here and there and go to next place same again travel here and there we want to see coast from start to finish and flying in to Bristol where would u recommend us to stay on our first trip and second trip ? Start to finish then back to Bristol airport

Laurence Norah says

31st October 2022 at 11:04 am

So your plan is similar to how we spent a recent trip to Cornwall. We’d recommend staying in the west of the county for 3 nights and the east for the other 3 nights. So for example, around Bodmin puts you in a good location for many of the sights of east Cornwall, and around St. Ives will let you explore the west. Of course, there are more options but that should give you some areas to look in.

Have a great time in Cornwall!

31st October 2022 at 4:46 pm

Thanks for this reply much appreciated it x

Robert says

10th June 2021 at 4:26 pm

Hi we are heading to Lizard Point next week and staying at Little Trehvas Campsite for 5 nights I was reading your beautiful trip guide and noticed you said single track roads are they in or around this particular area we will be visiting? Thanks

10th June 2021 at 4:41 pm

So the road out to the campsite you are staying at (the A3083) is a normal dual lane road. However, many of the roads on the Lizard are single track, such as the one that continues on past your campsite down to Cadgwith Cove, and the one down to Kynance Cove. So yes, they are definitely around that area.

In addition, as soon as you get off the main “A” roads in Cornwall you are very likely to come across single track roads. For that reason you need to be very careful when following a Satnav or using Google Maps, as these will often take you on what they think is the fastest route, even if it involves multiple single track roads. Sticking to signposts can often yield better results if you want to avoid the single track roads.

Let me know if I can be of further assistance, and have a lovely trip to Cornwall!

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Cornwall , Places & Things To Do · July 8, 2022

How to Plan a Trip to Cornwall (+ 7 Day Cornwall Itinerary)

If you’re visiting cornwall for a holiday or road trip, make sure you make the most of it by being organised & planning ahead.

There’s nothing worse than going on a trip somewhere and wasting loads of time faffing about because you’re unsure what to do and you haven’t planned in advance (or worse – get home afterwards and realised you missed out on the best bits!).

This is why I would strongly recommend planning ahead and creating an itinerary for your trip to Cornwall. It doesn’t have to be hour by hour strict and formulated – but having a rough idea of the things you want to do and see on each day is really useful, and you can adjust as you go.

How many days do you need to visit cornwall, when is the best time to visit cornwall, 1. decide how to get to cornwall, 2. book your cornwall accommodation, 3. research the best places & things to do in cornwall, 4. plan out your cornwall itinerary, 5. (make a rainy day plan), 6. create a packing list, 7. prepare for your trip before you leave.

But first, here are some FAQs and things to consider when planning your trip…

It really depends what you want to do during your trip and how many days is actually viable for you! It is possible to do a whistle-stop tour of a specific area in 3 days, and if you don’t mind driving around a lot, it is possible to touch on the key highlights in a week or 10 days. But you might be knackered afterwards and you’ll miss a lot if you try to cover a larger area in a shorter space of time!

When visiting a new place in the UK (like our recent trip to the Lake District), I try to remind myself that we can always come back again in the future to do another part/section of that area, if it’s too stressful to fit it all into one visit.

So for example in the 7 day itinerary that I’ve put together, I’ve just included all of the highlights of the SOUTH of Cornwall (from Newquay downwards). It just means that you might want to consider another trip at some point to cover the NORTH of Cornwall.

It really just depends on how much rushing around you really want to be doing and how important it is for you to see as much as possible (or if you’d rather a more relaxing trip)!

Peak season in Cornwall is always July and August due to school holidays, so if you’re able to avoid these times that would probably be best as the roads, towns and beaches won’t be quite as busy.

My favourite months in Cornwall are the shoulder months, like May, June, September and October. Cornwall is beautiful in late Spring and early Autumn, and it still stays pretty warm at these times (just not QUITE as busy!).

Okay, now onto the step by steps of how to plan your visit to Cornwall…

There are several options for how to get to Cornwall, and which one is right for you will depend on what you plan to do once you get here. If you’re going to be hopping around to lots of different places, you will want a car to make sure you can access everywhere you need.

However if you’re staying in one area (eg. Newquay, or St. Ives), you might be fine with using public transport like trains and buses to get around. Getting the train to Cornwall is the most environmentally friendly option, if that works for you during your trip as well.

Cornwall also has an airport in Newquay as well, so if you’re unable to drive or get the train there are links from major cities in the UK down to Newquay airport as well.

Accommodation in Cornwall gets booked up pretty far in advance, so I’d suggest booking this as soon as you can. There are so many amazing places in Cornwall to choose from, from luxury hotels and holiday villages, to quirky glamping options and budget friendly camping options.

Check out my ‘Where to stay in Cornwall’ section on my blog for my personal recommendations!

Top tip: Always book direct with the hotel/holiday park/campsite as they’ll usually price match any booking sites!

Research is so key when putting together a plan for your trip to Cornwall, because you want to make sure you’re making the most of your visit! I personally love scouring Instagram hashtags of locations to get inspiration, and of course remember to check out the categories on my blog to help you too:

View my personal recommendations of the best restaurants in Cornwall
View my suggestions for the best beaches and coast path walks in Cornwall
View my recommendations for activities and things to do in Cornwall

It’s also really important that you have somewhere to STORE all of this research and information that’s easily accessible while you’re on the go, and so you can reference it easily when planning your itinerary. I use my Travel Planner templates whenever I’m going on a trip to somewhere new so I can easily add links and ideas on the lead up.

This is the fun part! Now that you’ve collected all your research for the best places and things to do in Cornwall, you’ll want to create an itinerary for each day of your trip.

As I say, this doesn’t have to be a rigid plan with precise timings if that’s not your style, but having a list of at least ideas for what you’ll do on each day means you’ll waste less time and truly make the most of the time you have here.

I love using my Travel Planner templates for planning out my itineraries because you can add dates and details, share with friends & family to collaborate, and also view them in calendar view as well!

If you’re looking for my recommended itinerary for a 7 day trip to Cornwall, I’ve built this in to my ‘Cornwall Travel Planner’ template so it’s ready to go (but it’s also customiseable too) – plus a 100+ item packing list too!

The one downside of planning a staycation to Cornwall is that there is of course the potential for rain during your trip. A little bit of rain shouldn’t put you off this beautiful county though, and it’s still possible to do plenty of coast walks and outdoor activities in the drizzle, however for those days when it’s absolutely tipping it down and stormy, you probably will want to have a back-up plan in place!

You can download my free guide to Rainy Ideas in Cornwall below for inspiration :)

Once you know what you’ll be getting up to and where you’ll be going on your visit to Cornwall, it’s time to pack! I personally find it helpful to have a packing list with everything on it that I can check off as I go along, making sure we have all the essentials for the trip.

In my Cornwall Travel Planner template I’ve included a 100+ item packing list with everything you could possibly need on your holiday, specifically tailored for Cornwall!

Obviously everyone’s needs will be different depending on who’s going on your trip and what you’re doing and where you’re staying, but I’ve tried to include all possibilities in the list (including stuff for babies, dogs, and camping if you need! You can easily remove sections of the list if need be).

Depending on your situation and how long your trip is, there are certain things you’ll want to do before you leave – such as emptying the fridge, sorting care for your pets, or even putting together a play pack for the kids so they don’t get bored and rowdy in the car or on the rain! Again, having a place where you can store all of these reminders and checklist items can be useful so it’s all in one place (and I’ve built this in to my travel planners as well).

Introducing the Cornwall Travel Planner & 7 Day Itinerary!

Plan out your next Cornwall adventure with this customisable travel planner, with built-in 7 day suggested itinerary!

Store your trip info, inspiration, to do lists and plan your full Cornwall itinerary in detail using this template built in Trello. Access and reference easily on the go thanks to the Trello app too! (You’ll receive a video tutorial showing you how to use and customise the template too).

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September 20, 2023 at 6:22 am

It’s fantastic guide if you planning a trip to Cornwall! Your tips and insights are incredibly helpful for anyone looking to make the most of their visit to this beautiful region. And yes, having a backup plan for rainy days is a must in the UK! Your advice is spot on, and I’ll definitely keep it in mind for my next Cornwall adventure. Here one advice https://writinguniverse.com/free-essay-examples/drunk-driving/ what better not to do. Thanks again for the valuable information!

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The Best Time to Visit Cornwall

Cornwall offers a beautiful stretch of coastal villages, stunning natural landscape, myths and legends. Choose the best time to visit Cornwall with this guide covering everything you need to know, including:

This article contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and they help keep my content free – a win-win! For more information, see the affiliate disclosure .

Cornwall: Know before you go

✈️ Closest airport: Newquay Airport (NQY)

💷 Currency: Great British Pound (£) is used throughout the UK

🕰️ Time zone: The entire UK is in one time zone, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). From late March to late October, the whole country moves an hour forward to British Summer Time (BST).

🔌 Plugging in electronics: Electric sockets in the UK are unlike those in Europe or the US. If you are visiting from outside the UK, you will likely need this universal travel adaptor .

📱 Using your smartphone: If you want to use your phone data while visiting, the easiest and cheapest solution is to purchase an e-sim for your trip.

🚘 Car rentals: Americans can rent a car in the UK with a valid US driver’s license from any state. Driving in the UK is not for the faint of heart, and I recommend checking out my guide to driving in the UK before you set out!

🚊 Train booking: All major UK cities, and many other destinations in between, can be reached by train. Check train routes, ticket prices, and get your tickets directly through Trainline .

Why Visit Cornwall | What To Do in Cornwall

Cornwall is a hidden gem for those not originally from the UK. Sure, if you grew up in England, there’s a decent chance you’ve already taken a holiday in Cornwall. But if you’re planning your first trip to Cornwall, or wondering whether it’s worth your time, let me paint you a picture:

Cornwall features a picture-perfect coastline, from sandy beaches to towering cliffs to hidden coves. The South West Coast Path provides miles of hiking that follow the coast if you fancy a walking holiday .

You’ll also find a rich and romantic history here. Castles, stone circles, smuggler’s inns… it’s all part of the landscape in Cornwall.

Here are just a few ideas for things to do in Cornwall to get you started:

Find the home of King Arthur and Merlin in Tintagel
Wander amongst the Hurlers stone circles without the Stonehenge crowds
Immerse yourself in tales of Victorian crime and punishment at Bodmin Gaol
Learn about the history of smugglers and pirates at the Jamaica Inn
Walk the tidal pathway to the island castle at St. Michael’s Mount
Try your hand surfing in Newquay

Cornwall also enjoys some of the warmest weather in the UK. It can certainly still be rainy and chilly depending on the time of year you visit, but you’ll find plenty to love on even the coldest days.

The Best Time to Visit Cornwall by Season

The best months overall for visiting Cornwall are June and September. These times provide the best chance of warm weather with lower crowds.

Each season brings pros and cons for visiting Cornwall, so let’s look at what to expect throughout the year.

Summer is by far the most popular season for visiting Cornwall. The weather is warm, there’s less chance of rain, and beach towns boom. This popularity also means crowds and higher prices for lodging.

Summer is a great time to try your hand at surfing, go for a hike, or take in an outdoor show at the oceanside Minack Theatre .

If you’re able to avoid UK school breaks when you plan your Cornwall trip, you’ll have the best chance at lower crowds. August is the peak for school holidays and fine weather.

Traveling to Cornwall by car gets especially crowded during school holidays. If driving, try to stick to early morning or late in the day to limit the time you spend stuck in traffic.

Autumn / Fall

Visiting Cornwall in the Fall will bring somewhat cooler weather and increased chances of rain. However, there are still plenty of fine days to be had, especially in October. Most historic sites are still open during this season, but check ahead for timing.

The end of October half term school break does tend to bring more people out to Cornwall, but typically not so many as you find during the Summer.

Winter is quiet in Cornwall. You’ll still find an occasional crowd in popular towns like St. Ives and Padstow, but most of the region is peaceful this time of year. It can be a lovely retreat for significantly less cost. Explore foggy moors, tuck into a cozy pub, or sip a mug of tea and enjoy the view from your hotel.

Some historic sites close for the winter or open on a reduced schedule, so check ahead before your visit.

Spring is a beautiful time of year in Cornwall. Go see the flowers bloom at The Eden Project . Enjoy hikes and visit beaches with lower crowd levels than in Summer. The weather still has ups and downs this time of year, but by May you sometimes luck into warmer, drier days.

Holidays in the Spring do draw larger crowds, especially around Easter and the end of May half-term school break.

Best Time to Visit Cornwall Beaches

If you’re hoping to devote plenty of your holiday to the beach, stick to June through September. These months are best for warmer temperatures, lifeguards on duty, and water activities like surfing.

If you’d like to bring your dog along, note that many beaches in Cornwall ban dogs during the peak summer months. To enjoy the beaches with your dog, or simply avoid the crowds, plan your visit in May or October.

Best Time to Visit Cornwall Castles and Historic Sites

Summer brings the longest opening hours for most spots. However, you’re going to be visiting with more people and may need to book ahead for popular sites.

Many sites close during the winter or are open only on weekends. Check ahead before you head out to visit.

I visited Tintagel Castle in May and found it surprisingly empty. On the same trip, we had the Hurlers Stones nearly to ourselves.

Best Time to Go Hiking in Cornwall

Hiking in Cornwall is enjoyable any time of year, but pack the right attitude for your visit. If you head out in Summer, expect to share the trails with many other walkers. If you head out in Winter, expect mud and rain along the way and use extra caution along coastal cliff paths. Spring and Fall are a good compromise on conditions with less mud and fewer crowds.

How To Get to Cornwall

Travel to Cornwall can take some time, but luckily you have plenty of options to get there.

Travel To Cornwall by Car

Driving to Cornwall is the most common approach, and offers the most flexibility for getting around. If you aren’t familiar with driving in the UK, you should know that many roads in Cornwall are not for the faint of heart.

Check out my Guide to Driving in the UK for Americans for general tips and what to expect.

You can expect main roads heading into Cornwall, but tinier country roads heading into and around most villages. If traveling from London, you’re likely to pass right by Stonehenge on your way. Add in a stop if this is on your bucket list, but also expect traffic to crawl near this area.

Along your way, experience what I consider the unsung hero of UK road trips – service stations. Unlike in the US, where everything is so spread out, services in the UK group petrol, food sellers, and even a few grocery and shopping options all in one spot. You can grab a Starbucks, pick up snacks, or stretch your legs and let the kids run around a picnic area.

My favorite stop on the way to Cornwall is Teals . This farm shop and restaurant is right off the A303, and likely on your way if you started near London. We loved picking up local treats in the shop and the adjacent field was the perfect spot for giving ourselves and our dog a short walk.

Driving to Cornwall from London takes 5-7 hours, depending on traffic. Expect 7-9 hours driving from Manchester.

Travel to Cornwall by Daytime Train

Trains connect Cornwall to many major cities in England and can be a quicker and less stressful journey than driving. Travel time by train is just over 5 hours from London for direct daytime journeys. Expect just over 7 hours from Manchester, with a change in Birmingham.

To find the best pricing and up-to-date timetables for train journeys across the UK, I always use Trainline .

Night Riviera Sleeper Train Between London and Cornwall

If the travel time is putting you off the idea of visiting Cornwall, consider taking the Night Riviera train service from London Paddington to Penzance. This sleeper service departs Paddington at 23:45 (23:50 on Sundays) every night other than Saturdays. The train arrives in Penzance the next morning at 08:00 (08:49 for Sunday departures).

To book through Trainline, follow this link to the advanced booking page . Add in London Paddington and Penzance as your stations and select a departure after 22:00. Make sure the booking you select asks you for details for sleeper service so that you can select a sleeper cabin. Otherwise you may be stuck in a standard train seat, which is a lot less restful.

You can also book direct with GWR, but be aware that their website is notoriously buggy for non-UK credit card payments.

You can book return tickets through Trainline that combines sleeper service out and day tickets for your return, or vice versa.

Travel to Cornwall by Plane

It is possible to fly to Newquay in Cornwall if you’re short on time. Budget airlines also make this trip, so it’s often cheaper than you might expect.

Check flight times and availability with WayAway . This flight aggregator checks across multiple sites to find the cheapest and most convenient flights.

Renting a Car in Cornwall

You can visit Cornwall without a car if you don’t mind sticking to a single area or relying on sometimes slow public transit options like buses.

Luckily there are many rental car companies in Cornwall, so you can pick up a rental here if you don’t have a vehicle already. Look for rental locations at your arrival train station or the Newquay airport. Find the best prices and book in advance with Booking.com .

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Harbour hotel st. ives.

Right by the sandy beach and walking distance to the center of St. Ives. Standard and family rooms are available. Breakfast is included. Some rooms have an ocean view. Don’t miss visiting the many art galleries in St. Ives.

Esplanade Hotel – Newquay

This beachside property offers standard and family rooms within a 20 minute walk from the Newquay train station. The property has an indoor swimming pool in case of bad weather, and also offers guest discounts for the on-site surf school.

The Pickwick Inn – Padstow

Padstow is a foodie haven, including four restaurants by Rick Stein. I’d recommend making this town your base if you’re a couple or solo traveler that appreciates the finer things. Families will find a broader range of activities in nearby Newquay.

The Cornishman Inn – Tintagel

If you’re coming to Cornwall for King Arthur legends, stay a 3-minute walk from Tintagel Castle at the Cornishman Inn. Standard and family rooms available. If Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave aren’t mystical enough for you, take a side trip to St. Nectan’s Glen for fairy art and a much photographed waterfall pool.

Hotel Penzance

This lovely hotel is a very short walk from the Penzance train station, making it ideal for train travelers who want to put off or avoid driving. Many rooms have sea views, some including views of St. Michael’s Mount. An onsite restaurant and swimming pool make this an easy spot to while away your holiday.

Is going to Cornwall worth it?

Cornwall is a unique region of the UK with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re visiting from overseas, or planning a UK staycation, Cornwall is well worth your time!

Guide to Driving in the UK for Americans

Three Castles to Visit From London by Train (No Driving Required!)

Leonardslee Gardens: A beautifully eccentric day out

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The Best Time to Visit Cornwall

Living in Cornwall it barely occurred to me that people might need to consider when is the best time to visit Cornwall. For me the simple answer is anytime, but I realise that probably isn't very helpful. Of course what makes a perfect time to come to Cornwall is quite subjective and will depend on what you are looking for in a holiday. Those seeking a traditional seaside holiday will have very different requirements to someone in search of an outdoors adventure.

There are a few factors in play which will determine the best time to visit. Chief among these are how busy it will be (and availability), is everywhere open and, yes, the weather. Whilst the first two of these can be answered easily and concisely, the Cornish climate is a mysterious, unpredictable thing. Think typical British weather, and then keep thinking!

In the olden days (a few years ago) there was an expression down here at the start of winter. It went something along the lines of "Can the last one out turn off the lights!". The it was a matter of batten down the hatches and wait for Spring. Well, things have changed a lot recently and Cornwall has become very much a year-round destination. In fact towns like St Ives and Padstow can be positively bustling in February these days.

It has got to the point where I am constantly surprised during the winter months - either it is busier than I expect or suddenly empty, like the old days. Of course busy is relative and you will have no issues finding a place to stay in the Winter, bar Christmas and New Year. In addition you will find a lot of places don't shut up shop for the winter anymore. Cafes and local shops tend to stay open all year, albeit on reduced hours.

To some extent I miss the old days when I sometimes felt like I had Cornwall to myself. That said you will still have no trouble finding a little piece of Cornwall to yourself this time of year. Mid-week and a little overcast, chances are you can find a beach to yourself or get the best seat in a cosy coastal cafe.

The Cornish winter weather is quite consistent and can be described in three words that all begin with 'W'; Warm, wet and windy. Warm is relative to the rest of the UK but daytime temperatures rarely fall below 10°C (50°C) and only a few frosts occur. Snow is virtually unheard of, so no excuses for not making it back to work on Monday!

The winter weather is also when nature puts on its most spectacular shows. With its exposed position, jutting out into the Atlantic Cornwall takes the brunt of the winter storms. 70 mph winds and 50 foot waves combined with a stunning, rugged coastline make Cornwall one of the best places for storm watching anywhere.

Winter is a special time of year in Cornwall. It is undeniably romantic - bracing walks and then home to an open fire. Although, this might be a difficult one to sell to your teenage children your dog will love it, especially as nearly every beach is dog friendly in the Winter. I love the feeling of solitude and oneness with the landscape you get at this time of year. There are still no shortage of things to do in the Winter and this is a time of year when you will feel more a part of Cornwall than just one of the invading summer horde.

I should probably keep it to myself but Spring is definitely my favourite time of year in Cornwall. It has it all; the weather is warming up, the leaves are on the trees, the birds and bees are buzzing and it is still quiet. Well, except for Easter when you get a sudden reminder of what's ahead.

At this time of year it feels like Cornwall is waking up, in step with nature. Along with the explosion of green everything seems to step up a gear. There are traditionally a fair few events throughout the Spring, kicking off with the World Gig Rowing Championships on the Isles of Scilly and Obby Oss in Padstow .

Looking back through my photos , Spring is the time that I have been out and about with my camera the most. However, it is often difficult to choose between going out with my camera (work!), going out for a walk / bike ride or heading to the beach for a surf - because Spring throws up some of the best waves of the year.

Of course, before you get too excited with the idea of a perfect Cornish Spring break remember we are still subject to the British (and Cornish) weather. Whilst I would say the weather in May and June tends to be some of the best throughout the year, that might be a little rose-tinted and as always the weather is a lottery. However, statistically these two months have the lowest rainfall of the year, which you would think equates to more sunshine.

On the downside Easter tends to mark the beginning of parking restrictions as well as dog bans from many of Cornwall's beaches, although there are still plenty of dog-friendly beaches if you know where to look.

Why not come to Cornwall in the Summer? It's what everyone else does! Yes, Cornwall does get rather busy in the Summer, or more specifically during the school holidays. Actually outside those 6 weeks, which generally run from late July to early September, it is still pleasantly buzzing, but not the height of summer-madness.

Obviously there is a reason it gets so busy during the summer holidays and I realise that many of you are limited to when you can come down to Cornwall. Also I realise that plenty of people aren't as bothered by it being somewhat on the busy side. This being the case my advice is to book early as availability in all the popular spots will be almost non-existent once the summer has started. Of course you can save yourself some money if you are willing to hold out for late availability accommodation .

For those of you, like myself, who are not so fond of crowds and queues, do not despair, there are plenty of places to get away from it all even in the middle of Summer, it just requires looking a little further than the standard issue guidebook. If you steer clear of any of the main resort towns and beaches things become much quieter straight away. And if you keep heading in the opposite direction you may find a few of Cornwall's hidden gems. Whilst naming names would be rude I'll say it is always worth exploring the Lizard and Roseland peninsulas not to mention Bodmin Moor.

Besides the crowds the other main issue with the summer is the unreliability of the weather. Whilst it rarely rains 7 days in a row during the summer it can sometimes feel more like March. On the plus side, when it is sunny in the summer there isn't anywhere better to be.

The Autumn starts as Summer and Ends as winter and has everything in between. There are many of the benefits of Spring, including fewer people around, plus the bonus of having the highest sea temperatures of the year. Not only that but you may well experience one of our near-mythical Indian Summers.

Starting around the third week of September Autumn should start off feeling almost like summer temperature-wise. In addition there are no shortage of things to do in Autumn with a seemingly disproportionate number of foodie festivals going on.

This is also a great time of year to do all the things you might have done in the Summer. If the crowds put you off then now is the time to visit the Eden Project, eat fish and chips on St Ives harbour front, have your photo taken at the Land's End signpost or go for a surf at Fistral Beach. Talking of surfing Autumn is possibly the best time of year; warmer water, bigger swells and lighter winds than winter.

As autumn turns into winter the weather can often take a turn for the more dramatic. It can get just as breezy as it does in Winter with some of the most dramatic storms occurring in October and November.

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The best time to visit cornwall: a seasonal guide.

Posted by Select Cornwall

on 22/11/2022

- Cornwall is a popular holiday destination in the UK, known for its beautiful coastline and sandy beaches.

- The best time to visit Cornwall depends on what you're looking for. If you're looking for a quiet, relaxing break, then spring or autumn are the best times to go. If you're looking for a more lively atmosphere, then summer is the best time to visit.

- Cornwall is a great place to visit at any time of year, with something to offer everyone.

So, when is the best time to visit Cornwall? Here's a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip:

- Spring is a great time to visit Cornwall if you're looking for a quiet break. The weather is usually mild and there are fewer tourists around than in the summer.

- The days are getting longer, so you'll have more time to explore Cornwall's beautiful coastline.

- Spring is also a great time to visit if you're interested in Cornwall's history and culture. This is when many of the region's festivals and events take place, including the Cornwall Film Festival and the Cornwall Food and Drink Festival.

- Summer is the busiest time of year in Cornwall, so if you're looking for a lively atmosphere, this is the time to visit.

- The weather is usually warm and sunny, making it perfect for days spent on the beach.

- There are also many events and activities taking place in Cornwall during the summer, so there's always something to do.

- Autumn is a great time to visit Cornwall if you're looking for a quiet break. The weather is usually mild and there are fewer tourists around than in the summer.

- The autumn months are also a good time to enjoy Cornwall's natural beauty, as the leaves on the trees start to change color.

- If you're interested in Cornwall's history and culture, autumn is also a good time to visit, as many of the region's festivals and events take place during this time of year.

- Winter is a great time to visit Cornwall if you're looking for a quiet break. The weather is usually mild and there are fewer tourists around than in the summer.

- The winter months are also a good time to enjoy Cornwall's natural beauty, as the leaves on the trees start to change colour.

- If you're interested in Cornwall's history and culture, winter is also a good time to visit, as many of the region's festivals and events take place during this time.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Cornwall

Cornwall is one of the most epic holiday destinations in the entire UK.

Many people consider it to be the area of the country with the best beaches and, and it certainly has its own distinct culture that isn’t found elsewhere in England.

This makes the beautiful county a popular staycation destination for people who are seeking something new without leaving the UK.

For all its charms, Cornwall is a very, very seasonal place to visit.

It certainly stays warmer than other parts of the UK year-round – but it gets battered by storms in the winter, making it quite undesirable!

In the summer, Cornwall frequently gets days of glorious sunshine, but doesn’t the population of England know – the resorts can get jam-packed, the roads at standstill traffic and prices skyrocket.

So when is the best time of year to visit Cornwall?

I’ve been lucky to spend a lot of time in the county over the years, and I think the best time to travel to Cornwall is spring for activities, and June if you’re after a summer holiday.

But read on for the breakdown, as well as some Cornish events that you might want to be in the county for!

Table of Contents

When to visit Cornwall? The breakdown

Cornwall in summer.

In summer, Cornwall is busy – from the start of March onwards, each week closer to the summer sees hordes more people.

The good weather makes it the best time to do a road trip around Cornwall and see its many outside attractions, so if you can avoid when it is super busy, it might be the best time to visit Cornwall.

Here’s what to expect in each month from late Spring.

Cornwall in May: the best time to visit Cornwall?

May is a beautiful time to visit Cornwall, as long as you miss May half-term (generally the last week of the month).

The weather is generally warm and sunny – although you may still get cold and rainy days, so take layers and keep your eye on the weather forecast.

Nonetheless, you’ll likely have good enough weather for beach time during your stay.

See my full guide to Cornwall in May here.

Cornwall in June

June is much quieter than July and August, making it maybe the best time to go to Cornwall to avoid the crowds but still have a high chance of hot weather.

June has plenty of nice days, so if you’re after a beachy holiday, consider anytime this month.

Cornwall in July

Cornwall is quieter at the start of July, maybe slightly busier than June, but come school holidays (from the 20th), the county gets rammed.

July is perhaps the hottest month in Cornwall, but the crowds certainly know this!

If you don’t have children and aren’t a teacher, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Cornwall from late July until early September.

Cornwall in August

Again, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Cornwall in this time. But if you are going to Cornwall with kids of school age or are a teacher and can only visit during this time, I would advise:

If you are driving to Cornwall , make your journey either early in the morning or late at night , when you’re less likely to encounter traffic. Cornwall doesn’t have any motorways, and only a few dual carriageways – most of the roads are country roads, which can get backed entirely up with traffic.
Book your accommodation in advance to get the cheapest deals. Check out my guide on where to stay in Cornwall, which has some hotel recommendations. You might want to book somewhere that is walking distance to the beach.
If you are taking the train or coach to Cornwall, book these tickets early too for the cheapest rates.
Increase your budget a little , as rates of nearly everything while you’re there will be inflated.
Book tickets to Cornwall attractions like St Micheals Mount and The Eden Project ahead of time to avoid missing out.

Boardmasters Festival is a music festival playing Indie, soft rock, and electronic music. It is hosted in the second week of August each year in Newquay, with the beach’s backdrop.

The summer holidays are without a doubt the busiest time of year in Cornwall – luckily, it quietens down quite quickly in September!

Cornwall in September

This is a pleasant time to travel to Cornwall. You may be lucky to catch the tail end of summer, but should miss the crowds!

Cornwall in Autumn

Towards the end of September, the weather in Cornwall starts to turn.

Some days can be pleasant and sunny – but you can also get unlucky and witness some tremendous storms at this time of year.

We spent a week in Cornwall last October and 4/7 days were rained off.

Cornwall in Winter

You’re unlikely to see snow in Cornwall in winter , but the weather is stormy, wet and windy.

Many attractions, holiday parks, and campsites are closed because of the weather and because they don’t have the same custom in the winter.

On the plus side, you’ll be virtually the only tourist in the county!

Of course, Cornwall still sees its dry and even sunny days during this time, but it’s certainly not a given.

If you’re into moody coastlines, you’ll see plenty of these during your stay – but steer clear of any cliffs during storms.

There are some museums to visit in Cornwall in winter , such as:

The Eden Project in St Austell
The Museum of Cornish Life in Helston
The Bodmin Gaol (which is probably more atmospheric in these cold and dark months)
Bodmin Keep
Jamaica Inn
The Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro

Here’s my full list of rainy day activities in Cornwall.

Cornwall in Spring

As the dark winter subsides and the nights get a little bit longer, Cornwall emerges into the sun to become the beautiful tourist destination it is.

Spring is a good time to visit if you’re looking for a quiet holiday but with some (hopefully!) sunny weather.

As expected, Cornwall gets busy during the Easter school holidays.

It’s a quieter time than the summer months, but sold-out tourist attractions, packed beaches, and horrendous traffic are all possibilities!

Try to avoid this time if you are able to.

Cornwall in March

5th March is St Piran’s Day , who is one of the patron saints of Cornwall and the patron saint of miners.

On this day you’ll find lots of celebrations, including processions, shows, and street parties.

Cornish people are proud of their heritage, so this is a wonderful time to visit!

Cornwall in April

The weather starts getting warmer in April, and longer days mean that you’ll have more time for Cornwall’s outdoor activities.

As long as you avoid school holidays, this month is one of the best times to visit.

With its epic nature and distinct culture, Cornwall’s a treat any time of year.

Spring (out of school holidays) and early summer is probably the best time of year to visit Cornwall, but September is also pleasant, and if you don’t mind the storms, Cornwall in winter could be an option!

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Plan the ultimate family getaway this summer at multi-award winning five star Hendra Holiday Park and enjoy an amazing £700 off your stay! Book a summer holiday break now to secure your discount and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Stay in a luxury holiday home and check out all that the park has to offer, with a huge indoor fun pool, outdoor pool, playpark, activities, daily entertainment, adventure golf, 4 eateries, indoor games room, amusement arcades, outdoor ninja assault course, indoor soft play and more. Located near Newquay, with 7 beautiful beaches only 1 mile and half from the park, Hendra Holiday Park is your perfect summer destination.

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Splash your way into summer at Kernow Adventure Park

Find us just outside Falmouth, an idyllic setting nestled in the heart of a disused quarry. We have something for everyone aged 2 years and up, get your adrenalin started and jump your way around the aqua park, glide across the water on a SUP, take a leisurely swim in the crystal clear calm waters, or adventure around the quarry edge on an E-boat.

Stay with us a little longer, unwind with a coffee, or bring a picnic and take a moment for yourself. Our friendly staff are ready to welcome you on your next water adventure.

Drop anchor for a summer of family fun at National Maritime Museum Cornwall

Featuring a brand-new theatre show, museum trail, craft workshops and more.

Enjoy 2024 for less in Cornwall

From late availability to money-off discounts, we have an offer to suit everyone. Start 2024 with a saving on your next Cornish escape.

Whether you're in need of a last-minute getaway or whether you're simply looking for a saving for your next adventure, we have an offer for you. From last-minute trips to early bird discounts, a quick weekend away to savvy savings on your family break; discover more of Cornwall for less.

Book your train travel to Cornwall at GWR.com

Save over 50% when you book in advance

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

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.

That all depends on what you are looking for? North Cornwall tends to be wilder, rugged cliffs, long sandy windswept beaches, a land of myth's and legends...

The south coast is gentler, historic fishing villages, small sheltered coves and green fields running down to the water's edge.

Whichever coast you choose, you will receive a warm welcome, and if you do get bored, it's never much more than an hour's drive from one side to the other.

Travel to Cornwall by car

It takes less than five hours to get from London or Birmingham to the heart of Cornwall by car.

Drive along the M4 motorway from London, or M6 from Manchester, and then the M5 to Exeter and finally either the A30, that is mostly dual carriageway, or the A38 passing Plymouth and Saltash into South East Cornwall.

Alternatively if you enter Cornwall from North Devon, there is the scenic A39 Atlantic Highway running through Bude, which you can join from Junction 27 on the M5.

Due to the high volume of traffic on Cornwall's roads during the summer months the main routes can become congested especially at weekends. Travelling overnight or outside peak rush hours is recommended to avoid long delays.

To plan your journey use the AA Route Planner for a tailor made travel plan with timings and mileage
For information on possible delays or roadwork's throughout the UK or in Cornwall visit Traffic Watch
Travelling to Cornwall with a caravan? Check out this Caravan Towing guide

Travel to Cornwall by coach and bus

National Express operate a full service into Cornwall as far as Penzance, Megabus s also go to a few towns including Newquay and Falmouth.

Coach travel times from London or Birmingham to the city of Truro are around 7-8 hours

Many tour operators offer coach holidays to Cornwall, contact your local travel agent for details.

For information on public transport, including local bus timetables, once you are in Cornwall [click here].( https://www.firstbus.co.uk/cornwall/plan-journey/timetables ).

If you are bringing a coach to Cornwall, did you know Cornwall Council now offers a weekly coach rover ticket . This is available for all car parks where coaches are permitted and costs £16.60 for 24 hours or £55.35 for 7 days and £38.75 for 4 days.

There's a well-known saying that Devon is close to perfection, perfection being Cornwall!

You won't get a real Cornish pasty in Devon, and they don't know how to make a proper cream tea.....

What more do we need to say?

Yes, Truro is Cornwall's only city. It has a population of around 21,000 people and is famous for it's gothic architecture and paved streets. A pleasant place to spend the day shopping or visiting the Royal Cornwall Museum. In the evening there are plenty of bars and restaurants, a cinema and the Hall for Cornwall theatre.

You can always tell a holiday maker by the way they pronounce certain Cornish placenames... Tintagel, Launceston, Mevagissey, Mousehole.... but probably the most common mispronunciation is Fowey.

It rhymes with toy, not cow, so say Foy and you won't be far wrong!

The name comes from the old Cornish word for Beech Tree, and is taken from the name of the river rather than the town.

Cornwall has been consistently voted one of Britain’s top tourist destinations. As the official tourist board, it is Visit Cornwall’s mission to build on this success and seize every opportunity to continue to make Cornwall a quality destination of choice.

Navigate Cornwall: Discover Your Favourite Places

Your weekly dose of Cornish cheer!

When you can’t be in your favourite place all the time, catch up on the latest stories, upcoming events, holiday ideas, and offers with a newsletter straight to your inbox. Terms and Conditions / GDPR compliance: by providing personally identifiable information Visit Cornwall will use it to provide you with ongoing information about their products and services. No one from Visit Cornwall will rent, sell or lease this personally identifiable information to other companies or individuals.

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The Best Time to Visit Cornwall (Season and Things to Do)

Cornwall’s a great holiday destination but the question is, when’s the best time to visit Cornwall?

Located in Southwestern England, Cornwall is an area that stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by sea with a beautiful coastline wrapped around it, that covers 300 miles.

What makes Cornwall unique is that it is where the traditional southwestern extreme of Great Britain is located which is Land’s End.

Its geographical location and stunning landscapes make Cornwall a place worth exploring. The next question is when is the best time to visit Cornwall? Check out this complete guide to finding out!

Here, you will find out all you need to know about:

Best time to visit Cornwall
Things to do in North Coast, Cornwall
Things to do in South Coast, Cornwall
Things to do in West Cornwall
What to wear to Cornwall based on activity
What to bring to Cornwall based on activity
How to get to Cornwall
Where to stay in Cornwall
What to eat in Cornwall
What is the hottest month in Cornwall?
How many days do I need to stay in Cornwall?
What is special in Cornwall

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Best Time To Visit Cornwall

The best time to visit Cornwall depends on four factors that is the weather, crowds, rates, and activities.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick look at the best time to visit Cornwall

Now, let’s dive into the details!

Weather

Usually, the best time to visit Cornwall is during the Summer months from July to August as the weather is at its warmest. Alternatively, you can consider the early months of Summer which is May and June, or Autumn which is September or October.

Though there may be a higher chance of rainfall, the weather can get sunny and aside from the last week of May (which is when children break off for mid-term break), it’s quieter during this time.

The Spring months of March and April are also the best time to visit Cornwall as this is when the weather begins to warm again.

Crowds and Rates

The Summer months may offer great weather but it is normally crowded during this period and the rates for accommodation are at their peak so it’s advised to book in advance or avoid the popular tourist attractions.

If you’re traveling by car, you may also want to consider leaving as early as possible to avoid traffic.

If you want to go when it’s the quietest, there’s the Winter season from November to February. Accommodation and the cost of places to visit in Cornwall in Winter are generally cheaper so if you’re on a tight budget, this is something to consider.

Activities

What activities you intend to do when you visit Cornwall is also important in deciding when is the best time to visit Cornwall.

The table below has broken Cornwall down into three specific areas and when the best time to visit these areas would be depending on the activities and places in these areas.

Things To Do In North Coast, Cornwall

Surfing is a popular activity for the coastline is a magnet for big waves specifically at Fistral Beach, Newquay. It gets consistent waves all year round but the best time to go to Cornwall is during the Summer months specifically from June to August.

However, if you’re a keen surfer, it’s been advised that February would be the best month to visit Cornwall because that’s when the surf is at its cleanest and the swell is high .

Tourists are aplenty, especially during the second week of August which is when the Boardmasters Festival starts. This is when you may want to ask yourself is Cornwall worth visiting during this time of year if you don’t like crowds.

Yet, there are also plenty of other beaches to explore and surf. The weather will be warm and the energy will be buzzing so the best time of year to visit Cornwall for surfing depends on your preference for waves and people on the beach.

Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding is another activity that is frequented by locals and tourists. The best time to travel to Cornwall for paddleboarding depends on your tolerance to the cold as you’ll be standing on a board for a long time.

Summer months like June to August are ideal as the weather would be much warmer compared to Spring and Autumn. SUP in a Bag is a group that specializes in stand-up paddleboarding and offers lessons and tours for people and groups of varying ages and abilities.

Sea Safari and Fishing

Newquay Sea, Safari and Fishing boasts a great reputation for providing the best and most sustainable sea safaris and fishing trips in Newquay.

Consider late Summer (August) or early Autumn (September) if you intend to make this trip as the coastline is quieter and the waterways are clear. It’s been said that April to October is when you’ll be able to spot dolphins.

Newquay Sea Safari and Fishing offers shark cage diving where visitors can potentially see blue sharks. The best time to go Cornwall for this activity would be July, August, September, and October. However, there’s no guarantee of what you’ll find at sea due to unexpected weather conditions.

For further details and booking arrangements, you can get in touch with them here .

Things To Do On The South Coast, Cornwall

Looe island.

Looe Isl a nd is an oasis of peace. It is now owned by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and maintained as a marine nature reserve where visitors can go bird spotting and see grey seals.

If you’d like to explore Looe Island, then the best time to visit Cornwall England is between April (specifically around Easter) to end of September as that’s when the island is open for visitors. You can check back Cornwa l l Wildlife Trust’s official website here for the timetable of when the boat operates.

Located a few miles along the coast from Looe lies a quaint fishing village called Polperro. Visitors can expect narrow cobbled streets and an isolated harbor with colorful boats and turquoise waters which gives the area a charming quality to it.

If you’d like to see Polperro at its best, then the best time to visit Cornwall would be in the Summer months such as June to August or early September for that’s when we’ll most likely get more sunshine.

May is also an ideal time to visit as it would be sunny and quieter. Polperro is also one of the places to visit in Cornwall in Winter but visitors need to be mindful that some eateries have shorter opening hours.

Smugglers Way

If you’re a walking enthusiast, you will not be disappointed as Cornwall has plenty of options to choose from. However, the most popular walk is Smugglers Way which is a 58-kilometer long-distance walk.

The best time to visit Cornwall if you’re planning a walking holiday would be Spring or more specifically April as it’s referred to as the driest month of the year and the winter wind will usually drop this time of year. Alternatively, you can consider September as it’s not too cold.

Things To Do In West Cornwall

St. michael’s mount.

Visiting St. Michael’s Mount will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another time and place. Situated in Mount Bay just off the coast from the town of Marazion, this island is an absolute gem!

For places like this in Cornwall best time to visit would be from April to October. The skies are more likely to clear up so you’ll get more stunning views from the castle. It’s also more accessible to get to St. Michael’s Mount as the boats only operate during this period.

However, the harbor, village, Sail Loft cafe, and St. Michael’s Mount shop are free of charge during the Winter season so that’s something to consider when deciding the best time to visit Cornwall.

Also, the Castle Gardens are only open in April and on selected dates so do check in advance to avoid disappointment.

Land’s End is the westernmost point of Cornwall and one of Britain’s most popular outdoor landmarks so the best time to visit especially if you intend to walk in April or September as it would be less busy compared to Summer and also not as chilly compared to the Winter months.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and its granite dome which forms the backbone of Cornwall, there are plenty of routes to choose from which are accessible for walkers of all levels.

The Lizard peninsula, the most southerly part of the British mainland , is a stunning part of Cornwall that’s shaped by dramatic cliffs, white beaches, nature reserves, and wildlife making it the best place to visit in Cornwall. The most popular beaches here include Kynance Cove , Poldhu , and Gunwalloe .

Best to go early if you intend to visit any of the popular beaches. In terms of weather conditions, usually, Summer is ideal as the weather is warmer. If you want to avoid the crowds, then you can go in May.

If you intend to go on a walk, then Spring months like April or early Autumn like September would be ideal.

Coasteering

This is a physical activity that requires one to mount and move and swim across rocky coastlines with their hands and feet. It’s hard to say when is the best time of year to visit Cornwall to go coasteering as the weather can be unpredictable but going in the Summer would be your safest bet.

You can contact Kernow Coasteering who specializes in these tours for more information.

Snorkeling with Blue Sharks

best time to visit cornwall snorkelling with blue sharks

That’s right, you can swim with blue sharks in Cornwall! The blue sharks normally visit the Cornish waters from May to October so it’s the best time to visit Cornwall is during these months.

While they do have a high success rate of spotting sharks, there’s no guarantee you will see one so it’s best to manage expectations by not anticipating what you’re going to find. If you’d like to go snorkeling and see these blue sharks then it’s best to go with Blue Shark Snorkel .

What To Wear For Walking or Outdoor Activities

A good pair of hiking boots
Wear layers when walking or hiking during the colder months
Hiking shorts and top for the warmer months
A windproof jacket
A warm hat, and gloves
Hiking trousers
Synthetic, athletic leggings

What To Bring For Walking or Outdoor Activities

A walking stick
A hiking day bag to pack your belongings including a water bottle, sunscreen and hand towel
A pair of binoculars if you intend to go bird spotting
A good camera
A compass and local map
A pair of waterproof pants
A water bottle
A dry bag

What To Wear For The Beach or Sea Activities

A wetsuit and swimwear underneath are what you’ll be required to wear while doing any sea activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, coasteering, and snorkeling.
Depending on the activity, the wetsuit will be available to rent at Fistral Beach, Harlyn Surf School, and Kernow Coasteering. Wetsuit options are available for men , women , and children .
SUP in a Bag recommends renting them at Bathsheba Surf Shop .
Blue Shark Snorkel does not provide wetsuits but you can rent them here or here . Dark colors like black, green, and blue must be worn when in the water.
This includes all swim equipment such as fins and snorkels. If your wetsuit has any colored patches, it needs to be covered with a long sleeve black rash vest .

What To Bring For The Beach or Sea Activities

The beach essentials are important such as a hat , a towel, sunscreen , and a picnic mat.
For surfing, bring your surfboard (if you don’t intend to rent one from the surf school)
For standup paddleboarding, a windproof jacket and a pair of gloves are advised to bring and a SUP board (if you don’t intend to rent)
Old trainers or wet shoes for paddleboarding and coasteering. Optional for the former but compulsory for the latter activity.
For fishing, a fishing rod , bait, and tackle if you don’t intend to rent this during the sea safari fishing trip.
For snorkeling, bring fins , wetsuit boots and socks , snorkel and mask , wetsuit hood , wetsuit gloves , and weight belt . You can call Blue Shark Snorkel and enquire about renting this equipment from them.

How To Get To Cornwall

The most popular route is the train line from London Paddington Station to Penzance, Cornwall. The journey takes around five hours and several trains operate from this station a day. If you’d like to compare and identify cheaper tickets, you can check out Trainline .

If you’d like to rent a car, it’s advised to stop at Penzance train station, Truro railway station, or Newquay train station as these stations have car rental operators that can assist with the arrangements. Traveling by car is convenient as you can use the car to get around Cornwall itself.

It’s been recommended to drive on the M4 motorway from London, or M6 from Manchester, and then the M5 to Exeter, and finally the A30 or A38 through Plymouth and Saltash into South East Cornwall. Alternatively, National Express and Megabus are said to operate coach services to Cornwall.

Some planes fly from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Leeds, Bradford, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Dublin all year round. You can check out the airlines that fly to and from Newquay Airport, Cornwall here .

One way to explore Cornwall is via a guided tour which includes accommodation and meals. Tour Cornwall is an operator which organizes multi-day tours which take you to several key destinations in Cornwall.

Where To Stay In Cornwall

The best month to visit Cornwall can depend on how much you’re willing to spend on accommodation as usually, the cost is much lower during the low season compared to peak season.

If you intend to go during the peak periods, then it’s important to book your accommodation in advance. If you’d like to compare prices and the options available, you can also take a look at what’s listed on Airbnb.

Besides price, if you have a car then choosing accommodation shouldn’t be a concern. Narrowing down the area can be determined based on what are the places you’d like to explore and then choosing accommodation that is strategically located to all these places.

What To Eat In Cornwall

What you must try in Cornwall is their Cornish Cream Tea, Cornish Pasty, and Seafood. There really is no best time to visit Cornwall to try any of these as they can be enjoyed all year round.

You also cannot visit Cornwall without trying their ice cream which is best enjoyed in the Summer.

There are several places you can try Cornish Cream Tea such as:

Pauline’s Creamery , North Cornwall
Martin’s Dairy , South Cornwall
Polpeor Cafe , West Cornwall

If you’d like to try Cornish Pasty , you can check out:

St.Agnes Bakery , North Cornwall
The Cornish Vegan in Truro, South Cornwall
Ann’s Pasties , West Cornwall

As for seafood , several places worth mentioning are:

The Fish House , North Cornwall
Salamander Restaurant , South Cornwall
Mackarel Sky Seafood Bar , West Cornwall

To satisfy your ice cream cravings, you can consider:

Freddo’s , in Newquay, North Cornwall,
Callestick Ice Cream Parlour , South Cornwall
Jelberts Ice Cream , West Cornwall

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hottest month in cornwall.

July is the hottest month of the year in Cornwall, England. The temperatures can go up to an average high of 79°F and as low as 60°F. The winter period can last for about 3.3 months, from early December to mid-March, with an average daily high temperature below 36°F.

How Many Days Do You Need In Cornwall?

At least three days is the recommended amount of time to visit Cornwall so preferably over a long weekend. Having said that, an ideal amount of time would be a week as this will give you more time to visit more of Cornwall’s scenic sights and explore several of their key attractions.

What Is Special In Cornwall

Cornwall is special mainly for its stunning coastline and captivating fishing harbors. There are plenty of beautiful beaches that offer plenty of watersports activities like surfing or paddleboarding. Not to mention, you cannot go to Cornwall without trying their delicious Cornish pasty and cream teas.

As mentioned earlier, the best time to visit Cornwall is usually July and August but June or September are also reasonable months as the weather is still good and there aren’t as many tourists.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Cornwall depends on what activity you’d like to experience and who you’re going with. Whatever it is, you sure will not be disappointed by what this quaint part of England has to offer!

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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.

Fern trees in the Lost Gardens of Heligan

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.

Trebah Gardens one of the very Best Places to Visit in Cornwall.

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.

Land's End sign one of the most popular places for a selfie in Cornwall

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.

Polperro one of the very Best Places to Visit in Cornwall.

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.

Mevagissey one of the most popular towns to visit in Cornwall

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.

Padstow one of the best Best Places to Visit in Cornwall

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.

Explore beautiful Bodmin Moor one of the best things to do in Cornwall

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.

Mousehole one of the very Best Places to Visit in Cornwall

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 .)

Truro one of the very Best Places to Visit in Cornwall

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 remains of Tin mines are found all over Cornwall

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.

Isles of Scilly one of the Best Places to Visit in Cornwall

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

The top 21 things you can't miss on your next Cornwall vacation

Jul 7, 2022 • 14 min read

Gunwalloe in cornwall england uk. Hiker walking on the coast path

Hiker walking a section of the 630-mile South West Coast Path in Cornwall © Paul Nash / Shutterstock

Expansive beaches, chic hotels and moody Poldark filming locations – it seems picturesque Cornwall is rarely off British TV screens. But while the county is awash with sandy beaches and quaint pubs, there’s also a much richer narrative to explore.

This one sees you seaweed foraging, vineyard visiting, barefoot beach combing, or soaking in an open-air geothermally heated pool. Time to star in truly awesome adventures of your own with our pick of the best things to do in Cornwall.

Go for a gorgeous geothermal soak

Although Cornwall has some of Britain’s warmest seas an outdoor swim can still feel a decidedly chilly affair. Enter Penzance’s art deco, open-air Jubilee Pool . This triangular 1930s saltwater lido sits right beside the sea, a geometric vision in blue and white. But what makes it a sensational swim spot is the geothermal section. It’s heated to a blissful 30 to 35°C (86-95°F) by water that’s been extracted from a geothermal well that plunges 410m into the ground . It’s not only an unforgettable place to float, it’s sustainable too as the whole heating process has a tiny carbon footprint. Geothermal tickets sell out fast: book well in advance.

The iconic Penzance open-air Lido with its geothermal pool

Eat in an authentic pub

Cornwall is home to lush scenes on TV screens but visitors can be surprised to find not everywhere is picture-perfect. Cornwall is one of Britain and Europe’s poorest regions , due to a decline in traditional industries, lower than average wages, high house prices and a seasonal gig economy . Time then to support the fishing industry, back a brilliant chef and have a fantastic meal at the same time. The Tolcarne Inn sits beside the harbor wall in the decidedly gritty port of Newlyn. Here chef Ben Tunnicliffe has created a superb, unpretentious dining experience in a welcoming, cozy, historic pub. Opt for whatever’s come in on the day boats – it’s sustainable and has been landed just yards away.

Walk the causeway to St Michael’s Mount

A rocky, tidal island topped with an ancient castle and steeped with Cornish folklore, St Michael’s Mount is one of the most famous places to visit in Cornwall. But this popularity makes it no less magical.

The causeway connecting the island to the mainland is only exposed at low tide, so you’ll need to time your visit carefully. Pilgrims have been making this same crossing for centuries in homage to the island’s namesake, the patron saint of fishers. As you make the climb up to the castle, look out for the heart-shaped stone set into the cobbled path. Local legend holds that this is the heart of the giant Cormoran, slain by Jack the Giant Killer.

Unearth the real stories behind those photogenic mines

Poldark – the BBC TV series (also on Netflix) of life, love and tragedy in 18th century Cornwall – remains a huge visitor attraction in the region. But while many head to the filming location of ruined Botallack Mine to snap a selfie, more powerful narratives can be explored at Levant Mine , a few miles north. Here you can see the world’s only still-working steam beam engine thundering away and head into the Man Engine tunnel. This was the scene of Cornwall’s worst-ever mining tragedy, where 31 men were killed when a transport system collapsed in 1919 . Watching Poldark will never seem quite the same again.

Surf the North Cornish Coast

Cornwall has become a world-famous surfing destination, particularly on the north coast, where Newquay’s Fistral Beach is known as the “Home of British Surfing.” Whether you’re a keen enthusiast or an absolute beginner, taking to the waves in Cornwall is a must.

Beginners can book into a surf school in Newquay, or head to gentler spots like Polzeath Beach or Harlyn Bay . More experienced surfers might enjoy the challenge of Porthleven’s reef break , or, in winter, the cove at St Agnes . Don’t fancy big waves? Try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Polkerris Beach or Falmouth’s beloved Gylly Beach instead.

Sample Cornish wines besides the vines

While foodies head to Cornwall’s harborside restaurants, wine lovers go inland – the county is one of the best places to sample superb local vintages in the UK. The wine produced at Camel Valley is some of Britain’s best; under winemaker Sam Lindo, Camel Valley’s fizz has beaten French Champagne house, Bollinger, in global awards. Camel Valley is also a beautiful site to visit – rows of vines etch sun-soaked slopes on the edge of Bodmin Moor. Book ahead for a guided tour or arrange to sip chilled wine by the glass on their vine-side sun terrace .

Huge, bright-green leaves and plant foliage reach up towards the geodesic glass roof at the Eden Project.

Catch the eco bug and a concert at Eden

The pioneering eco attraction that is the Eden Project tops many visitors’ lists of things to do. Famously built in an abandoned China clay pit, this cluster of gigantic geometric greenhouses is home to massive biomes that recreate two key world climate systems. The Mediterranean biome transports you to temperatures of 9 to 25°C (48-77°F) and the fruits, herbs and flowers of Italy, Greece and Spain. Here you’re surrounded by bougainvillea, cotton, aloes, olive trees and vines (no surprise that many people visit Eden when it rains).

In the Rainforest biome, you’ll feel temperatures rise to 18 to 35°C (64-95°F) as you stroll beside rubber tree groves, sugar cane plantations and banana trees. You can even walk on a swaying wooden bridge, suspended high in the canopy. The biome also explores issues surrounding palm oil and deforestation. Everywhere at Eden, artwork and imaginative displays outline environmental issues and nudge us towards a greener, clearer future. But the best way to see Eden is during one of the legendary Eden Sessions – a series of summer music concerts that have showcased artists from Tom Jones and Kylie Minogue to Paloma Faith, Oasis, Elbow and Muse – tickets include a day-pass to the wider site.

Follow the King Arthur Trail to Tintagel

Powerful wizards, noble heroes, a sword trapped in stone… here, there be legends. Whether he was a romantic myth or a real-life mortal, King Arthur has become very much a part of the fabric of Southwest England’s story. And that story was born in North Cornwall .

Follow the King Arthur Trail through these legendary landscapes to live the myth at places like Camelford, thought to be the site of Camelot, where a 6th-century stone inscribed in Latin supposedly marks the site of Arthur’s final battle with his traitorous nephew Mordred.

Although the castle we see today was built in the 1230s, Tintagel was a seat of Cornish kings since the 5th century BCE, among them King Arthur. So says the legend, at least. Cross the narrow bridge to reach the eerie ruins on their jagged headland, before heading down to the sheltered bay below to explore Merlin’s Cave.

Take a "stank" on Bodmin Moor

Cornwall’s coastal paths are well-known, but inland there is plenty to entice walkers, too. Take a “stank” (local dialect for “walk”) on Bodmin Moor – a remote, heather-strewn moorland whose bleak but beautiful landscapes provide the perfect setting for adventure.

Soak up the views from atop Brown Willy, the highest point in Cornwall and one of the UK's best hikes , or explore the stone circles and bronze age barrows surrounding the slopes of Rough Tor. Fans of Cornwall’s most famous author, Daphne du Maurier, won’t want to miss the real-life Jamaica Inn at the heart of the moor. As in the novel, this isolated inn was once used to stash smuggler’s contraband in the late 18th century.

Cook a Cornish pasty

The Cornish pasty – beloved by 17th-century miners, claimed to be worth £65 million to the Cornish economy, and awarded protected status (only pasties made in Cornwall can use the geographic name). Buy them everywhere from rugby grounds and surfer hangouts to old-fashioned village stores. Or go one better and learn to make them yourself. The pasty-making course run by the Philleigh Way Cornish Cookery School near Falmouth sees you learning about the delicacy’s history and culture and practicing essential techniques, including the famous crimp. A demo on homemade scones and a Cornish cream tea is thrown in while your pasties bake – gifting you two Cornish culinary icons in one session.

Explore the Cornish mainland’s second-most westerly point

The problem with travelers’ totems is that sometimes they get overrun. At Cornwall’s most westerly mainland location, Land’s End , the dramatic cliffs are crowned by a theme park complete with a hotel, pub and 4D cinema. Time to head 7 miles north to the rugged headland at Cape Cornwall . Here you’ll discover a real end-of-the-world feel, a ruined early-Christian chapel, a derelict mine stack and tiny Priest's Cove which – at low tide – has a pocket-sized pool. Until about 200 years ago, the Cape was actually thought to be the most westerly point in mainland Cornwall then it lost that title to Land’s End. It’s a lot quieter than that other headland now.

An elevated view looking down towards the harbour of St Ives, Cornwall, on a sunny day; tall palm trees stand in the foreground.

Discover Cornwall’s forgotten corner

Most of the cars whizzing west into Cornwall cross the county border and carry straight on. But if you turn south instead, you enter the much-overlooked Rame Peninsula . It’s home to three-mile Whitsand Bay , the pretty fishing villages of Kingsand and Cawsand , and Rame Head – a rocky promontory that juts into the sea providing 360-degree views east to south Devon and west to the Lizard peninsula, some 50 miles away. To get a true taste of the area’s wild beauty, walk to Whitsand Bay from Mount Edgcumbe Country Park – a 10-mile cliff path hike via Kingsand, Cawsand and Rame Head that has exceptional views.

Catch a show at the Minack Theatre

Chief among Cornwall’s cultural highlights, the Minack Theatre is an open-air theater in an unbeatable location. Perched on a clifftop near Penzance , this spectacular setting looks as though it has always been there, its stone seats facing out onto the Atlantic Ocean.

In actual fact, the Minack is less than 100 years old. It was built in the 1930s by Rowena Cade, who felt her cliff garden would be the perfect setting for a performance of The Tempest . Today, over 200 live performances a year grace this unique stage, from plays and operas to children’s events.

Paddle off on a sea kayaking expedition

Supremely scenic from the land, Cornwall’s coast and rivers are spectacular when explored by kayak. Gin-clear seas, towering cliffs, tree-lined creeks, otherwise inaccessible coves. To really get immersed in the experience, sign up for a five-day sea kayaking trip with Evoke Adventure . Run by international expeditioner, Erin Bastian, the Best of Cornwall adventure sees you exploring the coast and estuaries near Falmouth – opening up everything from gliding up the sheltered waters of the bewitching Helford Passage to paddling beneath the exposed cliffs of the Lizard peninsula. It’s an unforgettable way to explore.

Forage for your food

Cornwall’s wide sea views draw your eyes to the horizon, but there’s much to be gained from zooming in. The Family Foraging Kitchen has you studying the shores, hedges, fields and woods in front of you. Courses take place on the Rame Peninsula – their seaweed foraging courses are held on golden beaches beside the broad sweep of Kingsand Bay. Each course covers local history, science and folklore as well as ethical foraging, species identification and how to cook what you find. By booking a session you’re also supporting a good cause – the kitchen helps combat food poverty by providing free wild food education to local families in need.

Spot naïve art in St Ives

The clear light and picturesque scenery of Cornwall have long drawn artists – from the impressionists of the Newlyn School of the 1880s to the abstract artists of the St Ives School in the 1940s. The local creative heritage was a factor in one of Britain’s most prestigious art institutions, the Tate , opening a beach-side outpost in St Ives in 1993.

Among the wealth of works, hunt out pieces by St Ives resident Alfred Wallis . A retired fisherman, he was entirely self taught. Working at his kitchen table, he used marine paints on bits of cardboard boxes to capture quintessentially Cornish scenes. His unaffected, instinctive style chimed with artists wanting a fresh approach after the horrors of WWI and he later became lauded for creating evocative naïve folk art. Head for the gallery’s ongoing Modern Conversations display and hunt out Wallis’ Schooner under the Moon and The Hold House Port Mear Square Island Port Mear Beach – then stroll outside onto Porthmeor Beach itself and look for the similarities between Wallis’ work and the scene today.

Young people collecting garbage on beach

Give a little back with a beach clean

While Cornwall’s beaches are genuinely gorgeous, they’re as hit by plastic pollution as any others around the world. Cornish environmental charity Surfers Against Sewage began campaigning to clean up seas in 1990 but now cites plastic as the new sewage. As well as backing organized coastal litter picks and inspiring people to stage their own , the charity also has a map of Cornish beach boxes where you can stash any trash you’ve collected. An ideal opportunity to explore Cornwall’s endless beaches and do good deeds for the environment at the same time.

Blast across Falmouth Harbour by boat

Cornwall’s shoreline is a string of beautiful beaches and bays and few things beat exploring them by boat. One of the very best Cornish boat trips is this 20-minute voyage from the busy port of Falmouth across vast Falmouth Harbour to the exclusive yachting haven of St Mawes . Here cottages cluster around a sandy harbor and the well-preserved 16th-century St Mawes Castle overlooks the scene. Many trippers explore the village and enjoy a meal or drink in one of the many classy restaurants and pubs. If you can though, walk north beside the water for just over 2 miles to the less-visited village of St Just In Roseland. There you’ll find a sleepy tidal creek and an exquisite 13th-century church – the graveyard here is ablaze with color in summer and spring.

Lose yourself among the Lost Gardens of Heligan

Cornwall’s mild microclimate – an effect of the Gulf Stream as it skirts the coast – means you’ll find a wealth of exotic gardens, particularly along the south coast. But the romantic history of the gardens at Heligan lends them a touch of intrigue that’s hard to beat.

Forgotten and overgrown since the outbreak of WWI, the once-glorious gardens of this historic estate were almost lost to time. It wasn’t until 1990 that the chance discovery of a door in the ruins led to the Lost Gardens being found and restored to their former splendor.

Explore the China Clay Trails

Walkers rightly adore the Cornish stretches of the mighty 630-mile South West Coast Path for epic hiking and cracking views. Cycling families love the 18-mile Camel Trail , especially the flat, scenic, 6-mile stretch between Padstow and Wadebridge. But for fewer crowds and a unique insight into Cornwall’s past, head to the Clay Trails . Fanning out from St Austell, this network of 3-to-5 mile walking and cycling paths leads right into the heart of China clay country – an area mined for kaolinite for centuries.

Trails snake beside immense clay tips (dubbed the Cornish Alps), working clay pits, drying chimneys, luminous blue lakes and glittering turquoise dams. Wildlife has reclaimed much of the landscape, so your insight into industrial heritage comes complete with buzzards and kestrels, wildflowers and vivid yellow gorse. One of the routes even passes right by the Eden Project – a suitably environmentally friendly way to arrive.

Boats anchored in New Grimsby harbour in Scilly

Get cast away on an uninhabited Scilly isle

The Isles of Scilly sit 28 miles west of the end of mainland Cornwall – an exquisite archipelago of five inhabited islands. White-sand beaches, azure seas, a mild microclimate and a slower pace of life make them one of Cornwall’s most appealing places. Fleets of boat trips fan out from the main island, St Mary’s , to the other four inhabited isles. Tresco is the most visited thanks to the subtropical Tresco Abbey Garden . St Martin’s has arguably the best campsite on Scilly . Bryher’s rugged western shore is home to the smart Hell Bay Hotel . Rugged St Agnes has the Turk’s Head , the UK’s most south-westerly pub. Each island is richly rewarding to explore. But the best tip is to arrange to be dropped on uninhabited Sampson by the Isles of Scilly Boatmen’s Association . The twin hills and sweeping beaches of this eerie outcrop were home to a handful of farmers and fishermen until the mid 1800s. Today you can explore their ruined homes and boat sheds between swims in crystal clear seas.

This article was first published Feb 5, 2020 and updated Jul 7, 2022.

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St Michael's Mount in Cornwall and its reflection in a rock pool at sunset

The best places to visit in Cornwall, from coast to cove

These are the best places to visit in Cornwall, from seaside villages to remote islands

Photograph: Shutterstock

Cornwall may be one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK, but in such a sprawling and varied county it can be hard to know the best places to visit. From magnificent castles, to spectacular headlands, to a cluster of beautiful, remote islands, the south west county is one of the most stunning parts of the country, with a tonne of amazing things to see. Luckily, we've rounded up some of the best places to visit in Cornwall here, so you can save yourself the pain of digging through an old guidebook you found in the Airbnb.

We recommend seeing the area by car – aside from a few trains its public transport system is famously shoddy, plus it means you can access all those hard-to-reach, remote spots down windy country lanes – just watch out for locals speeding around those bends. So fire up the engine and get down to some of the spots mentioned below. We can picture the seagulls stealing your sandwiches already.

RECOMMENDED: 🏖️ The best beaches in Cornwall 🥧 The best attractions in Cornwall 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Cornwall

This guide was recently updated by Time Out writer India Lawrence , who is originally from Cornwall . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Beautiful places to visit in Cornwall

1. isles of scilly.

Small, quiet and extraordinarily beautiful, the Isles of Scilly are a low-lying archipelago strung out across the Atlantic, some 28 miles off Land’s End – the last dots of land before North America. Basking in the warmth of the Gulf Stream in summer, the islands paint an exotic scene: softly curving, silver sand beaches are splashed by clear, shallow waters and a shock of weird and wonderful flowers and plants, many of which would struggle to survive in any other part of the country, run riot. Fiery red-hot pokers and purple-headed agapanthus, natives of Africa, make themselves at home, and the waxy ‘cactus roses’ of aeoniums, originally from the Canaries, crawl over garden walls.

2. The Lizard

South from Helston, the peninsula takes on an altogether more untamed character. The underlying serpentine rock, a greenish metamorphic stone, is covered by dour, dramatic sweeps of heathland (collectively named the Lizard National Nature Reserve), whose unusual geological make-up means it is home to some of Britain’s rarest plants. The swathes of pink-flowering Cornish heath (Erica vagans), at its prettiest in summer, are particularly glorious. On the coast, there are towering cliffs and rousing seas, preposterously pretty fishing villages and tempting sandy coves. Most visitors gravitate inexorably to Lizard Point to spend a few moments as the most southerly person in mainland Britain.

3. Rame Peninsula

Cornwall’s ‘forgotten corner’ – as the Rame Peninsula is often dubbed – is also one of the county’s most beautiful areas. Bafflingly overlooked by tourists and travel guides, the southeastern tip of Cornwall, on the Devon border, is the stuff of daydreams: romantic creeks, historic country mansions and snug waterside villages that give way to wild, unspoilt cliffs. It is perhaps the out-of-the-way location and the proximity of Plymouth across the water that has saved this small peninsula from development – most people dart straight over the Tamar Bridge rather than detour into the meandering country lanes, which culminate in a breathtaking dead-end when they reach the sea.

4. Mevagissey

Mevagissey is an ancient port and fishing village that dates back to the 14th century. In the 19th century, pilchards were the main catch here, and fish were salted and stored in cellars in the town and exported. The painted cob and slate houses cling to the hillside overlooking the two harbours, and the old fish cellars have been converted into tourist-oriented shops and eateries. These days, the fishermen supplement their income by taking visitors out on fishing trips; there is shark fishing for the adventurous and mackerel trips for families who want to catch their own supper.

5. Mousehole

On a sunny morning, before the summer crowds throng the harbour walls and car-owners make misguided attempts to navigate its minuscule streets, Mousehole (pronounced Mowzel) seems too perfect to be true. Its tiny harbour is fringed with soft, yellow sand, while the granite cottages huddling together behind are made all the more irresistible by carefully tended window boxes and the odd cat peeking out. But even if Mousehole has, by dint of its beauty, become a tourist magnet, with cramped fisherman’s cottages attracting mindboggling offers, the village has retained plenty of character and has a strong sense of community year-round.

6. Marazion

Home of the frankly magical St Michael's Mount – a castle on an island that can only be reached on foot during low tide – Marazion makes for an excellent day trip. After spending a few hours getting lost on the ancietnt cobbled streets of the mount (construction began on the site in 1135), you can also walk the coastal path, sunbathe on Marazion Beach (weather permitting) or visit Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens.

7. St Ives

The approach to St Ives by train (a journey holidaymakers have been making since the line was built in the 1870s) is a veritable sight for sore eyes. The single-carriage train chugs along the curve of St Ives Bay, opening up glorious vistas of golden sands and treating you to a bird’s-eye view of the UK’s most perfect seaside town: a pretty old granite harbour scooped out of the bay, filled with water the colour of lime cordial, and a tangle of cottages and lanes nudging each other for space. Long a magnet for artists, on account of the extraordinary quality of light, St Ives still has a wonderfully exotic feel. The vivid colours rebel against the restrained English palette, and its island-like setting means there are soft, white-sand beaches and glimpses of the sea at every turn. A scattering of Cornish palms – not to mention the more recent arrival of frothy cappuccinos, fancy restaurants and fluffy white towels–combine to make it all feel considerably more French Riviera than Cornish Riviera.

8. Looe

In contrast to upscale Fowey, with its multi-million-pound riverside properties and chichi interiors boutiques, a feel of pre-gentrification British seaside prevails at Looe, with buckets and spades, fudge and bags of chips unashamedly courting the summer trade. What it may lack in sophistication, however, it does make up for with a fantastic town beach and a memorable setting – not to mention the bonus of landing some of the freshest fish around, thanks to its day boats.

9. Falmouth

The seat of the county’s first and only university, hotly tipped as Cornwall’s boomtown and home to the new-this millennium National Maritime Museum, Falmouth has the feel of a town that’s on its way up. Where other Cornish seaside towns tend towards old-fashioned bucket-and-spade charm or cutesy chic (St Ives, Padstow, Fowey), Falmouth has a more youthful, cosmopolitan air, thanks largely to the creation of University College Falmouth, which specialises in arts, design and media. There is now a plethora of hip bars and cafés and a full calendar of festivals and events.

10. Fowey

You can swiftly identify a newcomer to the south Cornish coast by his stated intention to visit ‘Fowee Hall’. It is pronounced ‘Foy’, and the place is as intriguing as its name. With its steep winding streets and busy little port, located at the mouth of the river of the same name, this natural harbour is always busy with visiting yachts and boats. Regatta week in Fowey, usually the third week of August, is considered one of the best local regattas in the country; the spectacular Red Arrows display over the harbour is a highlight. With its classy boutiques, galleries, delis and cafés, and smartly painted houses, Fowey makes a well-heeled base for trips upriver and out to the nearby beaches. Taking to the water is a must. It is thought that Kenneth Grahame drew inspiration for The Wind in the Willows from the creeks and quiet waters of the Fowey estuary, and most of Fowey would agree with Ratty’s sage advice to Mole: ‘There is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.’

11. Penzance

The best way to arrive in Penzance is by train. Partly for the feeling of having escaped to the end of the line, but also because when the track emerges from the Cornish countryside onto the curve of Mount’s Bay, it reveals a perfect view of the town on the hill above. The commercial centre for the western district of Penwith, Penzance was once a fashionable seaside resort – the trappings of which can still be seen in the fading but elegant architecture along Cornwall’s only seaside promenade, notably the art deco Jubilee Pool.

12. Padstow

An unparalleled destination for gastronomy, estuary views and coastal charm, Padstow is the epitome of fishing-village-turned-chic. A warren of cobbled streets leads to the hubbub of the harbour, an animated mix of crabbers, netters, working boats, yachts and pleasure cruisers, with slate-hung, red brick and grey stone cottages trimming the edges, accommodating pasty shops, boutiques, chippies, pubs and increasing numbers of classy restaurants. The Tourist Information Centre by the quay is a good starting point for exploration.

13. Morwenstow

Ducking out of the bullying Atlantic gales, between Bude to the south and Hartland Point to the north, Morwenstow fits tidily into a small wooded combe close to the Devon border. The tiny hamlet is most famous for its connection to the eccentric, opium-smoking Victorian vicar Reverend Stephen Hawker, who served at the parish church and is credited with introducing the Harvest Festival in English churches. Hawker’s presence looms in the stepped mock-Tudor gables and Gothic windows of the Morwenstow Vicarage, where each chimneypot mimics the spire of a church. The Grade I-listed church itself, set against the ocean backdrop, is a memorable sight.

14. Newlyn

Almost joined to Penzance to the south, Newlyn nevertheless retains its own identity, with a history strongly linked to art and fishing. Despite the decline in the fishing industry, this is still the county’s biggest fishing port and the site of the Newlyn Fish Festival, held over the August bank holiday. In contrast to Mousehole, a few miles around the coast, Newlyn has the look and feel of a working port, and anyone interested in fishing should take a closer look at the harbour – or at the very least, invest in some gleaming fish or fresh Newlyn crab from W Stevenson and Sons on the main street.

15. Bodmin

The sober, no-frills town of Bodmin is the largest of the settlements around the moor. An important religious centre in the Dark Ages, thanks to the foundation of a priory at St Petroc in the sixth century, the town has an impressive 15th-century granite church dedicated to the saint. Bodmin was also once the county town of Cornwall before judicial and administrative powers moved to Truro, as evinced by some important-looking public buildings in the centre. Beyond the old-fashioned high street there is a handful of visitor attractions, including the foreboding Bodmin Jail on the outskirts and the quaint Bodmin & Wenford Railway.

16. Newquay

While the discussion about its reputation as a magnet for boisterous young boozers rages on – the police calling for a clean-up, others enjoying the funfair – Newquay’s natural assets retain an indelible appeal. For an idea of the raw materials that first made Newquay a resort, make your way to the western side of the harbour; from here, you can take in the entire sweep of cliff-vaulted beaches across the bay.

17. Helston

The only town of any size on the Lizard Peninsula is the pretty country town of Helston, famous for its annual Flora Day celebrations held on 8 May (unless it falls on a Sunday or Monday). During this ancient festival, the town is decorated with bluebells and gorse, and schoolchildren dress in white and wear garlands in their hair. Festivities include the play-like ritual known as the Hal-an-Tow, in which St Michael slays the devil and St George slays the dragon, and culminate with the processional ‘Furry Dance’, in which townsfolk dress up in their finery and dance in and out of the houses. Amid the springtime revelry, much Cornish ale is imbibed.

18. Launceston

Launceston (pronounced ‘Lanson’ locally), the ancient ‘capital’ of Cornwall, is a charming, richly historic market town. It acts as the traditional gateway between Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor and is one of the area’s most interesting inland towns for a wander. Although not much of the 12th-century town wall remains, evidence of Launceston’s medieval fortifications endures in the shape of Southgate Arch (originally one of three entries to the town) and the 11th-century castle, the seat of the first Earl of Cornwall. The 16th-century St Mary Magdalene Church, famous for its ornate carved exterior, is a striking sight.

19. Hayle

Gently curving around the northeastern reaches of St Ives Bay are Hayle’s impressive (and much-touted) ‘three miles of golden sand’, reaching from the mouth of the Hayle estuary all the way around the bay to Godrevy Point, an epic spot guarded by the Godrevy Lighthouse (thought to have been the inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s novel To the Lighthouse). A world away from the cuteness and crowds of St Ives across the bay, the beaches of Gwithian and Godrevy, joined at low tide, are altogether more elemental scenes, pounded by some of Cornwall’s best surf and with big open skies and sunsets.

20. Truro

Located at the head of the Carrick Roads estuary, the capital of Cornwall has more than just a stunning Gothic Revival cathedral (which is almost certainly worth a visit). Head to Lemon Street Market to shop at independent boutiques or grab a coffee at the cute Fig Cafe. If you're a fan of digging around in second-hand shops, it's worth paying a visit to Enjoy Clothing , one of Truro's most beloved vintage stores. Or you can check out the Royal Cornwall Museum , showcasing Cornish arts and culture, or catch a show at the newly renovated theatre, the Hall For Cornwall.

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Best Places To Visit in Cornwall: Attractions, Beaches and Pretty Villages

Home » Destinations » Europe » UK » Best Places To Visit in Cornwall: Attractions, Beaches and Pretty Villages

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Updated: 14th February 2023

Cornwall is gorgeous – especially when the sun is shining and you’re enjoying a perfectly chilled beer or wine on a pub’s terrace, a glistening ocean vista just beyond. However, the best places to visit in Cornwall aren’t just restricted to the coast. Cornwall’s attractions span Tudor castles, prehistoric ruins, seal sanctuaries and futuristic botanic gardens.

Of course, in the summer months, we Brits make a beeline for Cornwall’s best beaches, meaning crowds and higher prices are a given. However, out of season, the incredible array of places to visit on South West England’s shorelines – especially along the Lizard Peninsula – are just as inviting, albeit more for rambling than sunbathing.

With a fascinating history related to the UNESCO-listed old mining sites , a rich and storied culture thanks to the Cornish language and the region’s independent past, and those beautiful golden sands, Cornwall’s charm is infectious no matter where or when you visit.

Whether you’re planning a long weekend or an extended vacation, here are some of the best places to visit in Cornwall to get you started.

Where to stay in Cornwall and other FAQs

Cornwall offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from small B&Bs to lavish castle stays. Cottages and holiday homes are popular options, with companies such as Aspects Holidays providing a local and specialist alternative to Airbnb.

Picking where to base yourself will depend on whether you want a quaint town (Penzance), a coastal retreat (The Lizard), an isolated village (Mousehole) or a larger hub like Truro. For more ideas, see my guide on where to stay in Cornwall .

Cornwall is one of the prettiest regions of England, with an interesting history due to the mining and national minority languages. However, the main reasons to visit are for surfing, sand, seafood and the dramatic coastline.

For the weather alone, summer is the best time to visit Cornwall. However, in the peak summer months of July and August, as well as during UK school holidays, the region becomes busier. I suggest visiting in spring for wild-flower-lined trails or late September for a more peaceful, yet hopefully still sunny, beach break.

Cornwall is ideal as both a long weekend break or a one-week road or beach trip – it really depends on how much time you have. With a car, you could ‘tick off’ some of the main attractions in three days, but you’ll want to take it slower if you’re getting around Cornwa ll by bus or just want a beach holiday.

The region’s coast is certainly the star. Personally, I find the Lizard Peninsula to be the most scenic part of Cornwall, especially spots such as Kynance Cove.

Mevagissey, Port Isaac and Polperro are some of Cornwall’s prettiest villages. St Ives is the prettiest town, while the prettiest beaches include Kynance and Porthcurno.

If you only have time for a short visit, then don’t miss Tintagel Castle, St Ives, St Michael’s Mount and The Eden Project. These four attractions are some of the top places to visit in Cornwall. However, it’s a region best explored slowly so that you can see many more places on this list.

Port Isaac and Tintagel Castle

Snuggled around a small harbour in North Cornwall, Port Isaac is your typical dreamy coastal village and one of the best places to visit in Cornwall for first-time visitors. A cluster of white-fronted homes atop a low-slung cliff, the village looks down on the pocket-sized beach and bobbing fishing boats below.

Port Issac’s history is tied to fishing – an industry that peaked here in the early 19th century – and thankfully, due to the protected status of the harbour, the fishing village has remained quaint and historic, even if the industry is less prominent.

Further north, around a 30-minute drive along the coast, is one of the most famed Cornwall attractions, Tintagel Castle. However, the best way to arrive is by following the Cornish Coastal Path, which links the two locations together. This 10-mile stretch takes in dramatic rock formations and lesser-visited beaches. It’s particularly spectacular in spring when the wildflowers arrive.

While not much remains of the castle itself, the legend of King Arthur and the dramatic footbridge between two dramatically rising cliffs make this spot unbeatable. Being one of the most popular attractions in Cornwall, you will want to book your tickets in advance , especially during holidays or weekends.

St Michael’s Mount

Perhaps you’ve heard of Mont St Michel, the Abbey-crowned island, which is a popular weekend break in France . Well, did you know Cornwall has its own ‘little sister’ to this famed location?

First imagined as a pilgrimage site and initially owned by France’s Mont St Michel, Benedictine monks constructed the first church here in 1135. Later, the island became a fortress before becoming one of the most popular Cornwall attractions.

Accessed from the town of Marazion, a sometimes slightly submerged brick causeway links the mainland with the island. While St Michael’s Mount doesn’t have quite the same level of grandeur as its French counterpart, the medieval castle atop – now a family home – adds something special, making it one of the best places to visit in Cornwall.

The Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard Peninsula is one of my favourite stretches of coast in the whole country, second only to the Jurassic Coast in my home region of Dorset.

Situated in south Cornwall – Lizard Point claims the title of the most south-westerly point on the mainland – the whole peninsula has that get-away-from-it-all vibe. Indeed, there are two things you’ll want to bring here: walking shoes and a camera.

Thanks to limited road access, little development and swathes of unadulterated verdant-backed coast, it retains all the charm of a time gone by. Idyllic villages such as Coverack and Cadgwith are the perfect places to stop for a fish and chips lunch, while turquoise-lapped coves like Kynance Cove are some of the very best places to visit in Cornwall for a dip.

If you want a Cornwall holiday with a relaxing vibe, you might want to consider staying on the peninsula rather than in one of the larger towns. Book a beach stay in Porthleven for a proper bolthole experience. It’s one of the most dreamy spots on the Cornwall coast, and your morning coffee will taste even better with those breezy sea views.

Sea views at Chy an Mor cottage in Porthleven © Aspect Holidays

Cornwall is a place you usually visit for the coast and quaint villages. However, if you want museums and urban comforts, head to Truro, the region’s only city.

While the cathedral towers above everything else and is worth a visit, the city still keeps a laid-back Cornish vibe. There are plenty of independent pubs and coffee shops – Lemon Street Market is a gem – and it’s a good base or place to pick up supplies, especially from the fresh produce market.

The main reason to visit Truro is for the more significant cultural offerings than elsewhere. Head to the Royal Cornish Museum, where you can learn more about the region’s history and a little about the Cornish language . Visit the Victorian cathedral – unusual for its three spires. Or even try to catch a show at the Hall for Cornwall, a popular performance venue.

For centuries, St Ives has been one of the most popular places in Cornwall for a UK staycation , and the second you lay eyes on the expansive beaches – particularly impressive at low tide – you’ll see why.

For many people, this is the best place to visit in Cornwall, as it has a lot. There are numerous breathtaking beaches, both in and a short walk from the town. Small cobbled streets link cute corners, seaside pubs, fish and chip shops and, of course, pasty makers together. Then, you have boat trips to spot dolphins or see the Godrevy Lighthouse up close and the modern art collection in The Tate. You’ll also find the gorgeous Tregenna Castle close by, which I visited when my cousin got married here – a very beautiful experience!

If you’re seeking a dreamy Cornwall base, you can’t go wrong here. Opt for one of St Ives’ exclusive holiday cottages to rent , and you’ll have everything you need on your doorstep. This does mean it’s popular in summer, but it’s a beautiful destination you can enjoy year-round. Even when I went for a quick getaway in January , it was a delight; the prices and near-empty streets made the off-season visit – even with the slightly grey skies – a worthwhile trade-off.

The Eden Project

Since opening in 2001, the Eden Project – a collection of enclosed botanic gardens – has established itself as one of the best places to visit in Cornwall for those with a curious mind and a passion for exotic plants.

Beloved by both adults and kids, the expansive space is home to striking exhibitions, interactive experiences, and plant species from around the world, which can be found in the biodome-enclosed gardens.

While it will cost you to enter The Eden Project, I’d say it’s worth it – especially as you could easily spend more than half a day taking it all in.

The Kings Arms, Marazion, a traditional British pub

For decades, Newquay has been crowned as England’s surf capital, making it one of the best places to visit in Cornwall to ride the waves or learn to surf. Still, there are plenty more reasons to add a stop in Newquay to your itinerary.

Being one of the larger towns in the region, you’ll find many excellent restaurants and ample accommodation. As such, Newquay makes for a decent base. Just keep in mind in summer, the population of 20,000 can multiply some five times.

Whether you’re staying here or visiting for the day, it’s well worth exploring the town and surrounding areas. If chasing swell isn’t your thing, then fret not, for there are plenty more adventure activities , such as coasteering experiences along the low-slung yet dramatic cliffs.

Other Cornwall attractions in Newquay include the family-friendly zoo, dazzling Fistral Beach, and some National Trust manor houses slightly inland. By night, especially in summer, there’s also some fairly decent nightlife here, another reason it’s a good Cornwall base.

Minack Theatre

Unique and fascinating, the Minack Theatre is one of my favourite places to visit in England and certainly one of the more unusual of Cornwall’s attractions.

Nearly 100 years ago, Rowena Cade set about to create something extraordinary. Chiselling the theatre into the cliff face herself, the Minack Theatre was born, bringing a unique spectacle to the south coast of Cornwall.

What makes the Minack so special is the backdrop of the ocean and the sea breeze throughout the open-air performances in the summer months. Even if there isn’t a show scheduled during your visit, you can still visit the theatre during the day. It’s a wonder, both for the ingenious design but also the magnificent setting.

Bodmin Moor

While most visitors to Cornwall will enjoy their treks and rambles along the coast, a special mention is reserved for inland Bodmin Moor.

A vast moorland in northeast Cornwall, Bodmin is a wild place which will be of particular interest to those interested in geological history. What makes Bodmin stand out as one of the best places to visit in Cornwall, though, is its history.

Amongst the granite slabs and barren pastures, you can find an abundance of ancient monuments. In fact, the location is noted as one of the best places in all of Europe for Neolithic and Bronze Age sites. King Arthur’s Hall, a megalithic ceremonial site, is one of the most famous.

St Austell and Mevagissey

These two cute spots not far from the Devon border can be easily combined, as Mevagissey is just a 20-minute drive or bus from St Austell’s train station.

An old market town, St Austell has played an essential role in the region’s mining and China Clay industries. You’ll still spot reminders of the town’s historic importance, such as the bygone Cornwall Coliseum. Nowadays, it’s the gateway to some of Cornwall’s best attractions and home to the St Austell brewing company, which you can visit for both a tour and a pint.

Coastal Mevagissey, however, is the postcard-perfect Cornish village. It’s one of the best places to visit in Cornwall to devour fresh seafood in a wooden-clad pub, with the colourful homes and boats around the harbour being the cherry on top.

Land’s End

This Cornwall landmark has long been a place of myths and legend – even the ancient Greeks adored this spot and named it ‘Belerion’, meaning the place of the sun. This history and the spectacular vistas have ensured that Land’s End has firmly cemented its place as one of the best places to visit in Cornwall.

Nowadays, it’s become a little too ‘theme park’ for my liking. However, there is no denying it’s a magical spot to enjoy the sunset with a cold one. Pop into the 17th-century pub for a pint and myths of seafaring pirate history, or take the kids to one of the child-friendly attractions.

Just be aware that it’s not the cheapest place to visit in Cornwall. Between the car park, attractions and higher-priced foods and ice creams for a family, the costs can quickly add up.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Cornwall is home to plenty of seals, and on some beaches – such as Padstow Harbour and Mutton Cove – you’ll see them basking on the sand or jetties. Sadly, some seals become injured due to fishing boats or other ailments and are treated at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary.

While it’s always best to see wildlife in the wild rather than captivity, this spot isn’t one of your typical Cornwall attractions like a zoo, as the primary purpose is rehabilitation rather than entertainment.

So, while it’s great to visit and admire the seal’s and pups’ healing, it’s even better to know that once they are strong and healthy again, they will return to the wild to enjoy life in nature.

The Lost Gardens of Helligan are one of the best places to visit in Cornwall

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

Close to Mevagissey, you’ll find The Lost Gardens of Heligan , something of a hidden gem in Europe . Even if you’re not a ‘garden person’, you may find your interest piqued by one of Cornwall’s best attractions, especially when you learn its story.

Firstly, the gardens are vast, covering more than 200 acres when you include the woodlands. Suspended bridges and moss-covered statues dot the gardens, which, until around 30 years ago, were being reclaimed by the elements.

While the Heligan estate’s history dates back to the 13th century, the gardens were landscaped and planted in the 18th century. Then, around 1915 and the start of WWI, the gardens were forgotten and ‘lost’. Thankfully, following restoration works and the passionate work of horticulturalists, Heligan has nearly been restored to its former glory.

The Egyptian House in Penzance is one of the more unique Cornwall attractions

This town in west Cornwall is perhaps most famous for its pirate past, highlighted in the opera The Pirates of Penzance, dating to the days of Queen Victoria. Yet, while the real-life pirates are long gone, the town retains plenty of other reasons to visit.

With plenty to see and do, from galleries and gardens to museums and the open-air lido, Penzance has established itself as one of the best places to visit in Cornwall. Of particular interest is the Egyptian House, a listed building with an interesting facade. Penlee House, home to some excellent paintings from the nearby art school’s alumni, is also worth a visit.

While Penzance is a popular base in Cornwall, thanks to the many amenities, I’d suggest booking a cottage near the harbour . This way, you can have the best of both worlds: a waterfront view with all the benefits of being in a town.

Padstow and Bedruthan Steps

On Cornwall’s north coast, two of the best places to visit in Cornwall can be easily combined. Either by a 20-minute drive or an approximately 17-mile trail around the Trevose Headland. While it’s one of the longest stretches of the South West Coast Path, the incredible scenery makes it well worth rising early for.

In Padstow, you’ll find a tranquil coastal town fronted by a still-working fishing port. These regular catches ensure it’s the go-to for fresh seafood dishes served by celebrities. Both Rick Stein and Michelin-starred chef Paul Ainsworth have restaurants here.

At the trail’s end, Bedruthan Steps Beach awaits one of the most breathtaking in Cornwall. However, the real magic is found along the path, with sheltered coves and rocky vistas aplenty. If this long stretch is too much, the turquoise waters of Porthcothan Beach are just as splendid. From Padstow, it’s around 13 miles one way to this point, or there’s a circular six-mile route from Bedruthan.

Pendennis Castle is one of the best places to visit in Cornwall

Life in Falmouth – like much of Cornwall – is all about the sea. However, in this coastal town, it’s taken a little further thanks to the National Maritime Museum.

Inside this impressive space, you’ll find plenty of stories of Cornwall’s seafaring past and full-size replicas and real boats from days gone by. Sadly, the ticket prices are a little steep, in my opinion, as London’s outpost is free, but they do allow entrance for one full year.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Tudor Pendennis Castle, one of Cornwall’s best attractions. Henry VIII constructed this fortification to defend the nation from the French, and much of the original structure – mainly the keep – still stands today. You can walk the extensive grounds, complete with historic cannons, visit the museum, and learn more about the outposts’ role in WWII.

Save this pin of the best places to visit in Cornwall. This guide covers the most famous Cornwall attractions, prettiest villages, and awesome coastal stops.

Isles of Scilly

Welcome to arguably the best islands to visit in the UK, the Isles of Scilly. This (often) sun-kissed archipelago of some 50 isles is breathtaking, earning it the title of the most magical place to visit in Cornwall.

To arrive, you’ll need to take a short flight or ferry – the latter being my personal tip. Not only is it less carbon intensive than flying, but the short journey offers great perspectives of the coast and can often be cheaper.

The main bonus of making the slightly further journey is that seeking out quieter beaches than the mainland is a much easier task. The sands are a gorgeous salt-like white, and on a sunny day, the waters sparkle and become almost Caribbean-like (if you squint). While only a handful of the islands are inhabited, many more can be visited, making island hopping very much a welcome treat.

If you’ve made it this far south, you’ve likely covered all of Cornwall’s best places to visit and earned yourself another celebratory fish and chips on the beach! Next up, it’s time to discover some of the other best places in South West England !

*Article produced in partnership with Aspects Holidays, written from my own experiences travelling through Cornwall

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Road Trip Dorset’s Jurassic Coast for Fossils, Pubs and Gorgeous Beaches
17 Beautiful Places to Visit in South West England for a Unique Getaway
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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!

crab sandwich at Rock Pool Cafe with sea pool view

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 .

female standing in front of st michaels mount in cornwall england

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!

The Minack Theatre in Porthcurno, Cornwall

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.

English Cottages view in St Ives, Cornwall

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.

Cobblestone Streets of St Ives in Cornwall

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.

Cornish Pasty with beach view in St Ives

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

cornwall best places. st ives harbour beach in cornwall, england

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.

cornwall best place. Cliff Views at Zennor Head, Cornwall

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 .

Trunk Deli storefront with flowers in St Agnes, Cornwall

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!

cornwall best places. panoramic view of st agnes beach in cornwall, england

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.

row of unique stippy stappy cottages in st agnes, cornwall

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! 🙂

Essential Tips for Your First Visit to Cornwall, England

Looe in Cornwall - Cornwall Tips and Tricks

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Thinking about visiting Cornwall and no sure how to prepare? Here’s a few tips for visiting Cornwall in England.

Cornwall and the Cornish coast are a thing of beauty in the UK. The rugged coastline and quaint fishing villages mixed in with tropical-ish (I know, not a real word) beaches and lots of hikes to challenge even the skilled walker.

Essential Tips for Your First Trip to Cornwall

I’ve been visiting Cornwall since I was a little girl and when I moved to the US, I definitely missed our family trips to this area. Now I’m back, I’ve been getting my fill of Cornish sea air and tons of seafood! If you’re wondering why you should even visit Cornwall, I’ve got TEN reasons for you!

Tower at St Michaels Mount and the castle of St Mount Michaels Mount

What Can I Do in Cornwall?

There’s plenty of things to do in Cornwall for every age group, family, couple, or solo traveler. If you’re looking for adventure then you can hike around the South West Coast Path which offers challenging trails down cliffs onto secret beaches and vast views without another person, car or house in sight.

Spend the day exploring the smugglers past of a small fishing village, visit the world’s largest indoor rainforest and learn more about the environment at Eden Project, climb up to a castle on an island at St. Michaels Mount, soak in the sun at England’s most beautiful beach, Kynance Cove , go to the ends of the earth at Lands End, eat fresh seafood and Cornish pasties, have picnics on the top of cliffs, visit the Doc Martin filming location of Port Isaac , or have a pint at the famous Jamaica Inn.

The possibilities are endless, sounds cliche, but sooooo true!

Best Time to Go to Cornwall

It’s a tough one, because you want to enjoy the English summer, however, it doesn’t last that long and it perfectly coincides with the busiest time of the year while all the kids are on school holiday.

April/May are great months to explore, however, the weather is unpredictable. One day it could be overcast and cold and the next day, it’s sunny and hot. In fact, the weather can turn in a few minutes. June is when it starts to get busier, but you have a higher chance of better weather.

Harbor side at St Michaels Mount and inside the Mediterranean Biome at Eden Project - Cornwall Tips

Try to stay away July-August, even though you are pretty much guaranteed perfect weather for most of the time, it will be unbelievably busy with the British school kids on summer vacation.

September is a hit or miss like April and May, but definitely a lot more chill. By October, the season is over and the weather has started to turn drastically, however, if you are planning on hiking around Cornwall, this could be a great time to enjoy the cooler weather.

So what month do I recommend going?! Definitely June or September.

What Should I Pack?

Even in the summer, you will want to make sure you have a couple of pairs of jeans or pants and a light sweater for windy days and evenings.

Don’t forget your swimsuit! If you are doing water sports or it’s off season, then you will need a wet suit! Even though the water looks tropical, it doesn’t mean it’s warm!

If you’ve got kids that are young explorers or if you want to protect your feet while splashing around and exploring coves, a pair of water shoes is a good idea. If you will be hiking a lot, then you’ll need to bring some good sneakers. Should you bring your super heavy hiking boots? I don’t think it’s necessary, but if they make you feel more comfortable and you have the space in your case for them, go right ahead.

Bring an umbrella or light raincoat just in case. I know it’s horrible to think about rain on your vacation, but rain happens A LOT in England.

October through February you want to make sure you have a thick, warm coat, gloves, hat, scarf, and lots of layers! That wind is COLD!

Rent a Car!

This is literally the biggest tip of all. Yes, you can get a train from London to Cornwall (it’s about 5 hours), but once you get to a train station in Cornwall, it’s hard to get from town to town. You also will have issues getting to those secret beaches you want to visit or the iconic Lands End. You can take a taxi, but you will end up paying more money than what you spent on your plane tickets, hotels, and souvenirs. So please, rent a car.

The Roads are Tiny

Motorways (or interstates) don’t exist in Cornwall. If you want to get to those hidden beaches and adorable fishing villages, then you will be driving down narrow roads (it looks like a one lane road, but it’s not a one way street) with trees on either side and minimal passing zones.

Some have tight corners and blind turns, so make sure you take extra precaution as you are driving down these roads.

Don’t Listen to Your GPS

On that note, don’t trust your Sat Nav! These tiny country roads are unrestricted speed limits (meaning you can go 60 mph), however, they are so tiny and you have to be so cautious that you absolutely cannot go that speed. For some reason the GPS doesn’t think that and will send you the “fastest route” which is often at times a zig zag of country roads all the way to your destination.

You need to plan out your route to your destination so you can avoid these roads as best you can. It might seem like the long way around, but I promise you, if you stick to the A roads then you will be driving faster and getting to your destination quicker.

You will have to take some B roads, and you just have to take a chance, some are wider single carriageways and others are smaller country roads. I found that when I looked on my maps app and google maps on my iPhone, the B roads that were psychically numbered on the map, were nice and roomy, but the B roads that were not numbered could barely fit a car down the lane.

Not sure how to use an actual physical road map? That’s fine! Plan out the route on your phone by looking at your map on your phone.

Check the Weather

I’m not saying listen to what the weatherman has to say, because 80% of the time they are wrong. I am telling you to check your weather app for where you are going in the county, because the weather can differ from one side of the county to the other. If you are checking real time weather, then it’s usually correct.

Check Tide Times

Going to the beach is part of the Cornwall culture (I mean the entire county is pretty much surrounded by water), however, the majority of the beaches disappear during high tide! (Kynance Cove is completely underwater). There’s also plenty of hidden caves to explore up and down the coast and they can only be accessed during low tide.

You need to check the tide times regularly because they differ greatly day by day. I like using the TidesChart but you can literally type in the “beach name” and “tide times” into google and you can find them that way too.

Beware of the Tides

Since we’re talking about tides, you need to make sure you are aware of incoming tides. (Seriously, if you listen to any of my Cornwall tips, listen to this one!) The tides come in very quickly and before you know it, you are stranded around the side of a cove and can’t get back to higher ground.

The waves also come in heavy and they have a lot of power to them. The rocks and cliff faces are very jagged in Cornwall, so you definitely don’t want to get slammed up against the rock, or be standing on top of a rock and a huge wave crashes against you and you get knocked off your feet.

Mullion Cove and Lands End on the coastal path in Cornwall, England

High tide is not the only danger though, low tide can create dangerous rip currents that can sweep you under when you least expect it. Always take caution when you are playing in the water, especially if there are no lifeguards on duty and always stay within the lifeguard’s flags for safer swimming. Remember, if you get caught in a rip current, don’t panic and swim parallel to the shore line until you are out of the current.

Choose Your Base Wisely

It gets VERY busy in Cornwall. So busy that you could be delayed an hour with traffic heading to the popular hot spots like Kynance Cove or Porthcurno Beach. To avoid crawling down the road, pick your base wisely.

You want to make sure you choose a town that is easy to get to. I already said the majority of the roads are small country lanes that barely fit one car, so you need to choose somewhere that has accessibility to A roads. For example, Polperro is beautiful, but you have to drive down a small road to get there, which is manageable on a day trip there, but not when you have to deal with it allllllll the time.

You also want to choose a big enough town where parking is not an issue. For example, most holiday cottages in Port Issac do not have private parking, so you have to park in the closest long stay parking lot (Hint: there’s only ONE in town).

If you are exploring southern Cornwall and the Lizard peninsula, then you want to stay somewhere like Helston because of how accessible it is. If you are staying in the north, then Looe is a good base.

Be Sure to Check the Attraction’s Website/ Social Media

This is one of the biggest Cornwall tips! So you want to go to St. Michael’s Mount and you’ve already checked the opening times before your trip so you’re ready to go! WRONG! This castle is on an island in the middle of the ocean and if there are high winds that day, then it will not be accessible to the public. Also, you can only walk to the castle during low tide, during high tide you have to take a ferry and if the seas are rough, then you will be denied access.

Other places will do special events or private events and shut down or some will be under construction, like Tintagel Castle. Their bridge expansion took several months longer than expected and were closed the entire time.

Wear Sunblock!

I was surprised by how strong the sun was. No, it’s not like Bali, but it’s strong. If you are not protecting yourself against the sun, then you will probably get burned! Remember, you can still burn if it is cloudy!

This Isn’t Where You Come to Party

This is not a spring break party destination, so don’t be expecting that. In fact, a lot of pubs and bars close by midnight and a lot of restaurants stop serving food by 8:30-9:00pm.

If you are looking for the biggest party destination in Cornwall, then you should go to Newquay, as it has the youngest crowd, the most bars, and a couple of clubs.

In fact, if that’s all you’re planning on doing in Cornwall, then you can get a train from London Paddington to Newquay Station in 5 hours and not have to worry about driving anywhere!

Find Hidden Gems Along the Coastal Path

Walking along Cornwall’s coastal path is one the most iconic hikes to do in the UK. Cornwall has 300 miles out 630 miles of what is called the South West Coast Path. Chances are if you are exploring towns and attractions along the coastline you will run into a sign for the coastal path.

Some stretches are easier than others, and some have steep inclines or steep “steps”, but the views are stunning and completely worth it!

coastal path in cornwall - cornwall tips

In fact, you will find hidden gems dotted all along the coastline, some are secret coves or beaches, others are dramatic cliff faces and massive rock arches.

The Lizard peninsula walk will take you past the southern most point on mainland Great Britain and Kynance Cove. The Lands End coastal walk take you to the beautiful Porthcurno Beach and past the Minack Theatre. The Boscastle walk starts in this magical village and will take you past beautiful coastline and straight to King Arthur’s Castle, Tintagel.

Do you have anymore tips for Cornwall? Do you want more tips for Cornwall? Are you planning a visit to Cornwall? Let me know in the comments below!

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I Bopped Around the Cornish Coast for Five Days

Afternoon matinees, 11th-century castles, and clotted-cream ice cream..

Everyone knows that person who spends weeks sniffing around travel blogs, going deep into Tripadvisor rabbit holes, collecting Google docs from friends of friends, and creating A Beautiful Mind –style spreadsheets to come up with the best vacations and itineraries possible. In this recurring series, we find those people who’ve done all the work for you and have them walk us through a particularly wonderful, especially well-thought-out vacation they took that you can actually steal.

On incredibly rare occasions, someone will offer me a job that I immediately accept — without hearing logistics, checking my calendar, or even inquiring as to how much it pays. “Teach a course on Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca ” was one such offer, and as such, I was lucky enough to spend five days at a retreat near Saltash, on the far eastern side of Cornwall, just over the border from Devon in southwest England, talking about gothic literature and going on to places that inspired du Maurier. When the trip was over, I had planned to spend a few extra days in London on my own, but at the last minute, I came to a realization: When was the next time I was going to be in Cornwall ? So I canceled my flight out of Heathrow and, after the course was over, I hopped on a train west to the Cornish coast, lured by the promise of really good ice cream and the best beaches England has to offer.

When the railroad across England was built in the mid-1800s, Cornwall exploded as a tourist destination (especially when the Napoleonic Wars prevented well-to-do youths from going on their Grand Tours internationally, and they had to settle for the best England had to offer instead).

But over the past few decades, with international flights becoming increasingly frequent and fairly cheap, a British family looking for a beach vacation might prefer somewhere like Spain , where the weather is almost guaranteed to be warm, as opposed to Cornwall, pretty as it is, but still at risk for English weather. And so even though Cornwall has been a tourist destination for literally hundreds of years, it still somehow feels undiscovered by the massive machine of international TikTok #wanderlust tourism. It is untrendy in the best possible way. By the sheer strength of its own stubborn character, Cornwall has preserved a sleepy, nostalgic sense of kitsch without it ever feeling like self-parody.

10 a.m. Walk along the South West Coast Path to Mousehole

From Plymouth in Devon, I took the train three hours to Penzance — as far as the national rail goes. I chose Penzance as my home base for the next few days, mostly because it was an incredibly convenient situation with regards to public transportation.

There are not many hotels in Penzance — even though it’s a place that relies on tourism, there are no major chains or luxury high-rises. I stayed at the Artist’s Residence in Penzance ( 20 Chapel St, Penzance ), an artsy boutique hotel thankfully just this side of too trendy (think an Ace Hotel in a slightly lopsided wooden building from the 18th century). My room had a claw-foot tub, a minibar full of artisanal snacks, and walls crowded with Banksy-adjacent art from local artists. And, helpfully for someone traveling alone, there was a cozy all-day café on the hotel’s first floor, which made a good place for me to hole up with my laptop or a book if I wanted an easy meal option or lowkey way to pass an afternoon.

Most visitors to Cornwall, or at least the ones I chatted with, were families (almost all British) with young kids who rented out houses in Cornwall for longer stretches of time. Airbnbs are incredibly common, and most of them (at least after a cursory search) look fairly affordable with excellent access to beaches. Penzance is the easiest place to stay with regards to train access, but I’d say Mousehole is your best option if you want the classic cozy fishing-town vibes. St. Ives is much more bustling, with bigger and better beaches but also much bigger crowds.

One great thing about Cornwall is the South West Coast (SWC) path, England’s longest footpath, stretching for more than 600 miles along the coast. My friend Nadine had a free morning before she had a flight out of London, so the two of us walked along the water for about 40 minutes to Mousehole (pronounced MOW-zell , but if that isn’t a freaking children’s-book town name, I don’t know what is).

Noon: Hit up a local craft fair

We grabbed iced teas at the Orange Cafe ( Parade Hill, Mousehole, Penzance ) when we arrived to town, and our attention was immediately captured by signs for a local craft fair. We found it hidden away and up a flight of stairs. I bought a ceramic creamer from an older gentleman bragging about how his wife made it herself.

1 p.m.: Get a Cornish pasty

Nadine had to head back to London, but I spent a little longer exploring Mousehole. On the recommendation of my friend the historian Dan Jones, I got my first authentic Cornish pasty of the trip, a steak pasty that came out piping hot and the size of my head (ideal) from the Mousehole Deli (N Cliff, Mousehole, Penzance TR19 6PH, United Kingdom). As per his recommendation, I ate it at the rock pool perched on a stone and people-watching the families wading into the water.

3 p.m.: Eat the best ice cream in Britain

On the walk back to Penzance, I stopped halfway at a little town (really more of a street and a corner?) called Newlyn, where there’s an ice-cream shop that’s been in business since 1946 called Jelbert’s ( 9 New Rd, Newlyn, Penzance ). They only do one flavor — vanilla — and the kids working there scoop it out of an industrial tube and then add a dollop of clotted cream and/or a flake on top. If you go, you must get the clotted cream, which is unsweetened and perfectly fatty and becomes somehow crystallized as it freezes in contact with the ice cream. I recognize that this sort of travelog is vulnerable to hyperbole, but I hope you understand that I am being entirely honest when I say it was one of the best bites of ice cream I have ever had in my entire life.

10 a.m.: Take a train to St. Ives

My plan for the day was to take one of the double-decker buses that pass through town once an hour to Porthcurno, a beach town out to the west, where I could see a matinee at the Minack Theater (nearly a hundred years old, outdoor amphitheater-style performance space, quite literally carved out of the rocks on the coast). But when the bus passed, it was full and the driver shrugged at me. I didn’t want to wait another hour for the possibility of another full bus, so I made a game-time decision: going to St. Ives instead. I took a slightly longer train route, transferring at St. Erth, so I could ride the train along the coast for beautiful views. It was absolutely worth it.

The train was crowded with families, most consisting of young kids and parents already exhausted by the prospect of the beach day to come. As soon as we got into the station, I walked down to the town center; there, I got my second Cornish pasty of the trip and a Portuguese custard tart from St. Ives Bakery.

1 p.m.: Visit the Tate St. Ives

In the 20th century, artists like Barbara Hepworth and Mark Rothko flocked to St. Ives because of its apparently special quality of light. In the ’90s, the Tate ( Porthmeor Beach, Saint Ives ) built a gallery around a former gasworks building with a circular rotunda and a vast view of the beach. The most striking work of art I saw was the rainbow, psychedelic installation by Sol LeWitt, which curved around the atrium facing the ocean, with colors so bright you almost couldn’t look directly at it.

2:30 p.m.: Conquer the island that’s not really an island

The “Island” on St. Ives is actually more of a grassy hill. I hiked to the top, weaving between picture-wholesome children with kites, to get an incredible view of the town’s vast beaches in every direction before I perched on a bench to read one of my little books about sad women going through existential crises.

5 p.m.: Pretend to be rich at the Porthminster Beach Café

Part of traveling alone means my body naturally adapts to a grandmother calendar. Around 5 p.m., I got a late lunch/early dinner at Porthminster Beach Café ( Porthminster Beach, Carbis Bay, Saint Ives ), which had incredible views but prices to match. If I were going back, I would be perfectly happy just grabbing a bite at the café’s to-go shack and eating on the beach.

6 p.m.: Protect your ice cream from seagulls

I ended the afternoon with ice cream from a local creamery called Moomaid of Zennor ( Street-An-Pol, Saint Ives ). I got the house flavor, called “Shipwreck.” The very next day, a friend told me she had also gone to Moomaid and a gallivanting seagull had swooped in and stolen her entire ice-cream cone! Head on a swivel to protect your ice cream, folks!

10 a.m.: Visit St. Michael’s Mount

About a 45-minute walk to the east is St. Michael’s Mount, an incredibly beautiful 11th-century castle built on a tidal island. Basically, that means you can sometimes walk ten minutes or so along a stone path to get to the castle’s little island, but sometimes the tide comes in and it’s only reachable by ferry.

My friend Vanessa and I walked and got high tea at the castle’s café (very important to put the jam on before the clotted cream in Cornwall. People will come to blows over it) before exploring the site itself. We are both adults, but we were given a sticker scavenger-hunt activity sheet, and it would have felt rude not to complete it.

The most interesting bit of history about the castle to me: It was briefly captured by Perkin Warbeck, the Tudor-era imposter who claimed to be one of the missing nephews of Richard III. By the time we left St. Michael’s, the tide was coming in and we walked along the stone path through a few inches of water.

2 p.m.: Swim in the Penzance Lido

When we made it back to Penzance, we changed into our swimsuits and spent the afternoon in the Lido — basically an outdoor ocean-fed saltwater swimming pool. If you want to go in the warm thermal-heated section of the pool, make a reservation in advance, but otherwise you can just show up and enjoy the salt water. We rented two lounge chairs for 1.50 pounds each and read our books when we wanted to dry off.

7 p.m.: Eat dinner at the Shore

Dinner that night was at the Shore ( 13-14 Alverton St, Penzance ), a truly bananas experience. Possibly the most interesting meal I’ve had in my life? It’s one seating, and there were just three tables in the restaurant. The staff was two people: one server-hostess and the chef-owner, a Scottish man named Bruce with the energy of someone who just licked a battery, who came out between every course to explain what we were eating and where he sourced the local ingredients. He wasn’t wearing shoes. The “menu” was a poem. Apparently, Bruce had done the fine-dining grind but had found true happiness just being able to cook one meal a night, using whatever ingredients inspired him that day, and writing his poems. If the food had been terrible, we still would have had a fun time just experiencing it all together in real time, but the thing is the food was incredible. I still dream about Bruce’s basil sorbet.

10 a.m.: E-bike over to Mousehole

This was my final day in Cornwall, and I was determined to make it to the Minack Theater ( Porthcurno, Penzance ). This time when the bus came by (full again), I wasn’t deterred. I had run out of plan-B options and I would make it to the Minack Theatre, goddammit. I rented an electric bike from a flock of them I saw on the street through an app called Beryl, and I rode back up to Mousehole, where I deposited it at the app-designed spot. Then I walked about 20 minutes on a concerningly isolated road to another bus stop. Somehow, when the bus rolled up the street this time there was plenty of room for me to get on. It was the same bus driver who had driven past me twice before, and he recognized me and gave me a look as I boarded like, “Hey! You did it!”

11 a.m.: Spot the Merry Maidens

The bus was a double decker, and I sat on the top so that I could get a glimpse as we passed a neolithic stone arrangement called the Merry Maidens. Allegedly, 12 girls were out dancing after dark and so they were punished by being transformed into stone. This is why we need feminism, etc.

2 p.m.: See a matinee at the Minack Theatre

I made it to the Minack in time for my matinee — Everybody’s Talking About Jamie , which was just delightfully British. I got lunch at the theater because by the time the bus made it, I was starving. This was pasty No. 3, by far the weakest of the bunch.

5 p.m.: Get ice cream one last time

If I surfed or liked the ocean more, I would have spent more time in Porthcurno, but I don’t, and so I took the bus back to Newlyn instead of all the way to Penzance, because I wanted to get that goddamn vanilla ice cream one more time. I did it, and it was so worth it.

11 a.m.: Fly out of Newquay Airport

The next morning, I flew out of Newquay Airport. Cabs are hard to come by in Cornwall, and Uber is nonexistent, so I asked the front desk of the hotel to reserve my cab for the time I needed it the morning before I left. In a move that left me feeling only moderately uncomfortable, the cab driver insisted I sit in the front seat for the 45-minute drive from Penzance to Newquay so he wouldn’t “have to turn my head back to talk!” I arrived, mercifully un-serial-killed, at the incredibly tiny but very convenient airport, with a connection in Dublin before my flight back to America.

Dana’s Cornwall Packing List

The weather changes on a dime in Cornwall, and a walk can go from misty rain to balmy sun in a matter of minutes, which means layers are essential. I wore this Everlane anorak basically every day — even when it was warm, it rolled up like a dream and took up no space at all in my backpack. Perfect for a surprise shower or for spreading out when I wanted to sit out on damp rocks.

[Editor’s note: Right now, sizing is limited for the ReNew Anorak.]

Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger Full Length

These pants became my daily uniform: I bought them in two colors — one jogger, one regular — before the trip, and I still wear them. They’re stretchy, lightweight, and perfect for long walks along the coast.

I didn’t wear much makeup on the trip because I was alone and spending the vast majority of my time scarfing shortcrust pastry while sitting on rocks, but I did use this Ilia multi-stick on my cheeks to give me a natural flush that said, “She’s outdoorsy!”

When it came to footwear, I wore Merrells for the longer hikes. But on day-to-day walks, I wore my Teva Universal sandals, which were especially helpful when the tide started to come in as I was walking back from St. Michael’s Mount. Mine are the Midform Universals with a little extra height, which qualifies as day-to-night in Cornwall. They’re a classic for a reason! If you’re traveling to a rocky, coastal region, there’s no need to reinvent the wheel to try to prove how original you are. Tevas work!!!!!

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Today’s Top Clicked

15 best and 'cleanest' beaches to visit in Cornwall this summer

These beaches have been named the cleanest and safest in Cornwall

05:00, 16 JUN 2024

Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth has been awarded Blue Flag and Seaside Award status for 2024

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Sewage spills at beaches in Cornwall have been all over the headlines in recent years. There are dozens of storm overflows across the county and the latest figures from the Environment Agency revealed that South West Water discharged sewage for 530,737 hours last year.

The water company's website says that during a storm event, heavy or prolonged rainfall can rapidly increase the flow in the combined sewer and may cause it to be overwhelmed. Without storm overflows, the diluted storm water wouldn’t have anywhere to go, which would result in homes, businesses and streets being flooded.

However, sewage spills on beaches in Cornwall have left many people angered, sparking protests demanding change . But sewage isn't the only problem our coastlines face - general pollution and anti-social behaviour resulting in rubbish being left on beaches pose a threat to our beloved seaside.

READ NEXT: Cornwall is officially the most popular UK spot to visit in 2024

READ NEXT: Cornish pub named as the best in the whole country

So, finding a clean and safe beach to visit as we head further into summer is important for many locals and visitors. Luckily, there are 15 beaches across Cornwall which have recently been awarded Blue Flag or Seaside Award status.

Seaside Awards are presented to the best beaches in England and celebrate the quality and diversity of the coastline. The coveted Blue Flag is only presented to beaches with water that has achieved the highest classification, as set by the EU Bathing Water Directive, and that have an environmental education programme.

Seven beaches owned by Cornwall Council have been awarded both Blue Flag and Seaside Award status for 2024. These include:

Crooklets, Bude
Gyllyngvase, Falmouth
Porthmeor, St Ives
Porthmissen/Trevone, Padstow
Widemouth Bay

Carbis Bay in St Ives , which is privately owned, has also been awarded both Blue Flag and Seaside Award status. Meanwhile, a further seven beaches owned by Cornwall Council have received Seaside Award status for 2024. These include:

Crackington Haven, Bude
Great Western, Newquay
Porthminster, St Ives
Sennen Cove
Summerleaze, Bude

The Blue Flag is an international award managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education. Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “These awards are a credit to the collective efforts of beach managers, volunteers, residents and businesses who have worked tirelessly to maintain, protect and improve some of our best-loved and most popular beaches and we’d like to take this moment to recognise and applaud them.

“Visitors to a beach flying a Blue Flag can be assured the beach will be clean, safe and meet the highest environmental standards, as well as international bathing water quality standards.”

Councillor Martyn Alvey, portfolio holder for Climate Change and Environment at Cornwall Council, added: “Cornwall has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and I’m delighted that we have received these much-deserved accolades.

"We are grateful to our tenants, our partners Biffa and Cormac, as well as the volunteers and beach clean groups for all their hard work and dedication in ensuring our coastline is kept clean. I'd also like to thank the RNLI who do such a fantastic job in keeping our beaches safe."

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Cornwall beaches
Most Recent

Cornwall's best breakfast crowned after our readers voted in their thousands

W here serves the best breakfast in Cornwall? It's a tough question, and we were so desperate for an answer that we opened it up to our loyal readers so they could have their say.

And they did, in their thousands - and judging by the results there are two venues that you should be checking out immediately. The bottom five all received less than 70 votes, the next four were all under the 500 mark, and the winning two were lauded in the thousands.

In first place, with a staggering 1,893 votes, came Amy's Kitchen and Bar in Lanner. Next, in second place, was The Potting Shed in Newquay , with 1,557 votes. Read on to see the full list, ranked from best to worst, with a brief description for the top three.

Read more: Wonderfully weird worm charming championships

Read more: Best garden centre in Cornwall revealed as one towers over competition

1. Amy's Kitchen & Bar, Lanner - 1,893 votes

Amy's Kitchen & Bar serves a full range of excellent breakfast meals from the classic Full Cornish (or Full Veggie), down to more light bites including Scambled and Salmon or Eggs Benedict.

All reasonably priced and with a focus on variety, the popular eatery in Lanner is well worth a visit.

2. The Potting Shed, Newquay - 1,557 votes

The Potting Shed is Newquay Garden Centre's on-site cafe but some may argue the food overshadows the plants on display. From their " epic Shed Burger" to the vibrant and healthy ‘Buddah bowls’, this cafe has something for everyone.

Their website reads: "If it’s a wholesome meal or just a slice of our delicious homemade cakes you're looking for you'll want to visit our cosy restaurant surrounded by a botanical haven."

3. Ben's Crib Box, Padstow , Padstow - 374 votes

Ben's Crib Box has a five-star rating on TripAdvisor and is ranked as the second-best restaurant in Padstow. Reviewers love the food, the value, and the service provided by staff.

One reviewer wrote: "A real gem of a place! Stopped off here for an early breakfast on a glorious sunny morning at the start of The Saints Way. One of the biggest bacon baps I’ve ever had. Well worth a stop if you are alongside the harbour."

4. Gridl, Newquay - 291 votes

5. Smokey Joe's, Scorrier - 144 votes

6. Daisy's Cafe, Looe - 116 votes

7. Trevassack Lake Cafe, Lizard Peninsula - 69 votes

8. Market Way Cafe, Redruth - 37 votes

9. The Deck, Bude - 36 votes

10. Rockhill Cafe, Bugle - 30 votes

11. Cornwall Gold, near Redruth - 13 votes

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Now we know which Cornwall eatery does the best breakfast

COMMENTS

Best Time to Visit Cornwall: By Season, Weather, & Costs
Cornwall In The Fall 🍁. September and early October in Cornwall offer milder weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer. The temperatures are still relatively comfortable, ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F). This is a great time for exploring Cornwall's scenic landscapes, coastal walks, and charming villages.
Best time to visit Cornwall: when should you go?
The best time to visit Cornwall is in June or September when the weather is still good but it's not as busy. There are no school holidays and no bank holidays making the county busy. Let's dive into the seasons and see what the benefits and restrictions of each one are. Hopefully that will help you to discover the perfect time for you to go ...
Best Time to Visit Cornwall (Weather and Costs)
Cornwall in June. June is the best time to visit Cornwall as the weather is pleasant, with warm, sunny days perfect for the beach before the crowds of July and August. Weather in Cornwall in June. Average temperatures in June range from 52 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit, and the sea temperature is around 55 degrees. Cornwall sees 70mm of rainfall ...
The Perfect 3 Days in Cornwall Itinerary
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.
A 1 Week Cornwall Itinerary + Tips for your Cornwall Trip
The county of Cornwall in the UK has beautiful beaches, lovely countryside, and some spectacular coastal vistas. So it should come as no surprise that a trip to Cornwall is a popular option for both holidaymakers in the UK and visitors from overseas. ... When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cornwall? The most popular time of year to visit ...
How to Plan a Trip to Cornwall (+ 7 Day Cornwall Itinerary)
How many days do you need to visit Cornwall? When is the best time to visit Cornwall? 1. Decide how to get to Cornwall; 2. Book your Cornwall accommodation; 3. Research the best places & things to do in Cornwall; 4. Plan out your Cornwall itinerary; 5. (Make a rainy day plan!) 6. Create a packing list; 7. Prepare for your trip before you leave!
The Best Time to Visit Cornwall
Cornwall: Know before you go. ️ Closest airport: Newquay Airport (NQY). 💷 Currency: Great British Pound (£) is used throughout the UK . 🕰️ Time zone: The entire UK is in one time zone, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). From late March to late October, the whole country moves an hour forward to British Summer Time (BST).
Cornwall Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
The best time to visit Cornwall is in June or September before or after the UK school holiday season when it can be very busy. During July and August, the weather is generally at its best (it is the English summer period and can be notoriously unpredictable) but this is also high season and the roads are busy with visitors heading to the pretty Cornish seaside towns and beaches.
When to go
Living in Cornwall it barely occurred to me that people might need to consider when is the best time to visit Cornwall. For me the simple answer is anytime, but I realise that probably isn't very helpful. Of course what makes a perfect time to come to Cornwall is quite subjective and will depend on what you are looking for in a holiday. Those seeking a traditional seaside holiday will have ...
The Best Time to Visit Cornwall: A Seasonal Guide
Here's a seasonal guide to help you plan your trip: Spring: - Spring is a great time to visit Cornwall if you're looking for a quiet break. The weather is usually mild and there are fewer tourists around than in the summer. - The days are getting longer, so you'll have more time to explore Cornwall's beautiful coastline.
When is the Best Time to Visit Cornwall
May is a beautiful time to visit Cornwall, as long as you miss May half-term (generally the last week of the month). The weather is generally warm and sunny - although you may still get cold and rainy days, so take layers and keep your eye on the weather forecast. Nonetheless, you'll likely have good enough weather for beach time during ...
Visit Cornwall
Cornwall has been consistently voted one of Britain's top tourist destinations. As the official tourist board, it is Visit Cornwall's mission to build on this success and seize every opportunity to continue to make Cornwall a quality destination of choice. View all. Navigate Cornwall: Discover Your Favourite Places.
The Best Time to Visit Cornwall (Season and Things to Do)
Area of Cornwall. Best Time To Visit. North Coast Most popular for its beaches and sea activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and sea safari. Surfing, Paddleboarding, and going to the beach: June to AugustSea safari, and fishing: May to October. South Coast Lots of outdoor activities that require one to walk.
19 Best Things To Do In Cornwall (+ Map & Tips)
10 - BODMIN MOOR. Bodmin Moor, one of the wildest and most remote places in England, is a wilderness area in the heart of Cornwall. Swathes of heather and bracken are broken by rocky tors and ruined tin mines. Hiking on the moor is a wonderful remote thing to do in Cornwall.
25 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall (+ map & tips)
2. Eden Project. 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.
Best Time to Visit Cornwall 2023 [Local Expert Tips]
The best time to visit Cornwall is in the summer, from July to August. During that time, the weather is excellent with the highest temperatures. Months with fewer crowds and mostly pleasant weather are May, June, and September. July and August see an average high temperature of 19°C (66°F), and you will enjoy about seven hours of sun a day.
Top 21 things to do in Cornwall
Take a "stank" on Bodmin Moor. Cornwall's coastal paths are well-known, but inland there is plenty to entice walkers, too. Take a "stank" (local dialect for "walk") on Bodmin Moor - a remote, heather-strewn moorland whose bleak but beautiful landscapes provide the perfect setting for adventure.
20 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall Right Now
Most visitors gravitate inexorably to Lizard Point to spend a few moments as the most southerly person in mainland Britain. Advertising. 3. Rame Peninsula. Photograph: Shutterstock. Cornwall's ...
17 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall
Truro. Cornwall is a place you usually visit for the coast and quaint villages. However, if you want museums and urban comforts, head to Truro, the region's only city. While the cathedral towers above everything else and is worth a visit, the city still keeps a laid-back Cornish vibe.
Best Time to Visit Cornwall: Weather and Temperatures. 5 Months to
Here's some information to help you in your decision: The best months for good weather in Cornwall are June, July, August and September. On average, the warmest months are July, August and September. The coldest months are January, February and March. The rainiest months are January, October, November and December.
Cornwall's Best Places to Visit: 4 Day Detailed Itinerary
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.
Essential Tips for Your First Visit to Cornwall, England
Choose Your Base Wisely. It gets VERY busy in Cornwall. So busy that you could be delayed an hour with traffic heading to the popular hot spots like Kynance Cove or Porthcurno Beach. To avoid crawling down the road, pick your base wisely. You want to make sure you choose a town that is easy to get to.
Cornwall, England Itinerary: 5 Days of Things to Do
Writer Dana Schwartz shares how she spent five days on the Cornish Coast in England, including the best places to get ice cream and the best beaches to visit. Afternoon matinees, 11th-century ...
The 10 Best Things to Do in Cornwall
This splendid beach offers excellent water for surfing and body boarding. See ways to experience (2) 2024. 10. Cornish Seal Sanctuary,SEA LIFE Trust. 3,008. Aquariums. The SEA LIFE TRUST Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a charity that rescues and rehabilitates grey seal pups from around the Cornish coastline.
15 best and 'cleanest' beaches to visit in Cornwall this summer
Luckily, there are 15 beaches across Cornwall which have recently been awarded Blue Flag or Seaside Award status. Seaside Awards are presented to the best beaches in England and celebrate the ...
Cornwall's best breakfast crowned after our readers voted in ...
Ben's Crib Box has a five-star rating on TripAdvisor and is ranked as the second-best restaurant in Padstow. Reviewers love the food, the value, and the service provided by staff. One reviewer ...

Best Time to Visit Cornwall: By Season, Weather, & Costs

Overall Best Time To Visit Cornwall

When is the best month to visit Cornwall?

What is the hottest month in Cornwall?

Is Cornwall warm all year?

What is high season in Cornwall?

Best Time To Visit Cornwall By Season

Cornwall In The Summer ☀️

Cornwall In The Fall 🍁

Cornwall In The Winter ❄️

Cornwall In The Spring 🌷

What Is Cornwall Known For

Best Places To Stay In Cornwall

Best Places To Visit In Cornwall

How many days do you need in Cornwall?

➡️ Short Trip (2-3 days)

➡️ Moderate Trip (4-6 days)

➡️ Extended Trip (1 week or more)

In The End: Summer is the Best Time To Visit Cornwall

Best time to visit Cornwall: when should you go?

When is the best time to go to Cornwall?

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October in Cornwall – what is it like to visit?

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The Perfect 3 Days in Cornwall Itinerary

When to Visit Cornwall

Getting To & Around Cornwall

3-Day Cornwall Itinerary

Day 1 – Tintagel, Newquay & the Eden Project

The Eden Project

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

Penzance & St Michael’s Mount

Minack Theatre

Land’s End & Cape Cornwall

Day 3 – Mousehole & St Ives

Have More Time?

Where to Stay in Cornwall

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A 1 Week Cornwall Itinerary + Tips for your Cornwall Trip

Where is Cornwall?

How To Get to Cornwall

How to Get Around Cornwall

Driving yourself in Cornwall

Public Transport in Cornwall

Cycling in Cornwall

Taxis in Cornwall

Guided Tours of Cornwall

What is There to do in Cornwall?

How Long Should I Visit Cornwall For?

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cornwall?

1 Week Cornwall Itinerary Ideas

Detailed Guide to Things to do in Cornwall in a Week

Tintagel Castle

Fishing Villages in Cornwall

Bodmin Moor

Eden Project

Take a Hike

Land’s End

Mining History

Go to the Beach

St. Michael’s Mount

Lizard Point

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Hotels & B&Bs in Cornwall

Self-Catering & Holiday Cottages in Cornwall

Glamping Sites and Campsites in Cornwall

Tours in Cornwall

Day Tours in Cornwall

Multi-Day Tours of Cornwall

Further Reading

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