Discover Cornwall | A Visitor's Introduction to Cornwall

Why is Cornwall Worth a Visit?

Cornwall is a unique destination with diverse appeal. It boasts dramatic cliffs, sandy bays, and hidden coves perfect for beach lovers, while its charming villages and harbours captivate visitors with their historic charm. The area’s artistic heritage is reflected in its galleries, festivals, and strong connection to literature and folklore. Cornwall’s seafood, local delicacies like pasties, and award-winning restaurants add to the experience. Whether you’re hiking along the South West Coast Path, exploring ancient castles, or surfing at Newquay’s famous beaches, Cornwall offers an idyllic escape in the English countryside.

Cornwall Highlights: Things to See and Do in Cornwall

1. St. Ives

St. Ives is a picturesque seaside town known for its white sandy beaches, vibrant art scene, and charming narrow streets lined with galleries and boutiques. The Tate St Ives gallery and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden are must-visit attractions, showcasing modern art inspired by Cornwall’s stunning landscapes. St. Ives is also a top spot for surfing and relaxing on its beaches, particularly at Porthmeor Beach.

2. Land’s End

Land’s End is the westernmost point of mainland England and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a popular destination for coastal walks, with rugged cliffs, stunning sea views, and photo opportunities at the iconic Land’s End signpost. The area has interactive exhibitions and family-friendly attractions, but its natural beauty remains the primary draw, with nearby coastal trails and the chance to spot seals and seabirds.

3. The Eden Project

The Eden Project, located near St Austell, is one of Cornwall’s most famous attractions. Known for its massive biomes that house diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to Mediterranean landscapes, the Eden Project offers a fascinating journey through the world’s natural habitats. Educational exhibits, art installations, and seasonal events make it a fun and informative visit for all ages, while the Eden Zip Line provides a thrilling adventure across the biomes.

4. Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle, perched on dramatic cliffs along the north coast, is steeped in Arthurian legend and offers a blend of history, mythology, and stunning views. According to legend, Tintagel is the birthplace of King Arthur. Visitors can explore the ruins of the medieval castle, cross the new footbridge, and visit Merlin’s Cave below. The views of the coastline are spectacular, especially on a sunny day.

5. Padstow and Camel Estuary

Padstow is a charming fishing village that has become a popular culinary destination, largely thanks to chef Rick Stein’s famous seafood restaurants. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many eateries or wander around the scenic harbour. The Camel Estuary offers beautiful views and opportunities for boat trips, cycling, and kayaking. The Camel Trail cycle route, which stretches from Padstow to Wadebridge and Bodmin, is a flat, scenic ride perfect for families.

6. Penzance and St Michael’s Mount

Penzance, a historic coastal town, offers a mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture, art galleries, and traditional Cornish pubs. Nearby, St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island with a medieval castle, historic gardens, and panoramic sea views. Visitors can walk across the causeway at low tide or take a boat when the tide is high. It’s a magical spot, especially at sunset, with a fascinating history that spans centuries.

7. Newquay and Fistral Beach

Newquay is Cornwall’s surfing capital and a lively seaside town with stunning beaches, the most famous being Fistral Beach. This beach is renowned for its surf-friendly waves, hosting national and international surfing competitions throughout the year. The town is also family-friendly, with attractions like the Blue Reef Aquarium and Newquay Zoo. For a quieter escape, nearby Watergate Bay offers expansive sands and dramatic cliffs.

8. The Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard Peninsula, with its unique geology, scenic coastline, and rare flora, offers a stunning and peaceful getaway. Kynance Cove is one of the peninsula’s most beautiful spots, known for its turquoise waters, white sands, and rugged cliffs. The area is part of the South West Coast Path, making it ideal for hiking. The Lizard Point, the UK’s most southerly point, offers spectacular ocean views and a chance to spot seals and basking sharks.

9. The Lost Gardens of Heligan

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, near Mevagissey, is one of Cornwall’s most enchanting gardens. Rediscovered and restored in the 1990s, these gardens now feature winding pathways, tropical plants, ancient trees, and sculptures. Highlights include the Jungle Garden, with exotic plants from around the world, and the woodland area, where you can discover hidden sculptures like the Mud Maid. It’s a magical place, particularly for garden lovers and families.

10. Falmouth and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall

Falmouth is a historic harbour town with a vibrant maritime history and beautiful beaches. The National Maritime Museum Cornwall offers interactive exhibits on seafaring, boatbuilding, and Cornwall’s nautical heritage. Falmouth’s bustling town centre has independent shops, art galleries, and excellent seafood restaurants, while nearby Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII, offers panoramic views over Falmouth Bay.

11. Polperro

Polperro is a quaint fishing village known for its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed cottages, and scenic harbour. This idyllic spot is largely traffic-free, making it perfect for exploring on foot. The village has a charming selection of independent shops, seafood restaurants, and art galleries, and a small museum dedicated to its smuggling history. The coastal paths around Polperro provide spectacular views of the rugged coastline.

12. St Agnes and the Heritage Coast

St Agnes, located on the north Cornish coast, is part of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers a blend of picturesque coastal scenery, beaches, and mining heritage. The area is dotted with old tin mines and engine houses, making it a great spot for history enthusiasts. The St Agnes Heritage Coast offers cliffside walks, stunning views, and beaches like Trevaunance Cove, popular with surfers.

13. Port Isaac

Port Isaac, a historic fishing village, has become famous as the filming location for the TV series Doc Martin. Its narrow streets, traditional cottages, and scenic harbour attract visitors year-round. The village is a great spot to relax, enjoy fresh seafood, and explore quaint shops. Walking trails along the cliffs offer fantastic views and photo opportunities of the charming village and coastline.

14. Boscastle

Boscastle is a beautiful harbour village on the north coast, known for its natural harbour and dramatic cliff views. The village offers a mix of quaint shops, historic inns, and scenic walks. The Boscastle Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is an intriguing stop, with exhibits on folklore and mystical traditions. The coastal paths around Boscastle provide beautiful views, especially at sunset.

15. South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Path is one of the UK’s longest and most scenic walking trails, stretching over 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset. In Cornwall, the path offers breathtaking coastal views, dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and diverse wildlife. Sections of the trail around St Ives, Penzance, and Lizard Point are particularly popular for day hikes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a short walk, the South West Coast Path offers something for everyone.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Cornwall is accessible by car, train, and air. The main motorway, the M5, connects to Cornwall via the A30 and A38. Great Western Railway offers direct train services from London Paddington to Penzance, stopping at various Cornish towns along the way. For those flying, Newquay Cornwall Airport offers flights from several UK and European destinations, with shuttle services available to nearby towns.

Parking

Parking in Cornwall’s popular towns and beaches can be limited during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early. Many areas have pay-and-display car parks, and some larger towns, like St. Ives, offer park-and-ride facilities to help reduce congestion. If you’re staying in a smaller village, consider leaving the car parked and exploring on foot to fully enjoy the charming scenery.

Dining

Cornwall’s food scene is famous for its fresh seafood and local specialities. The Cornish pasty, a savoury pastry filled with meat and vegetables, is a must-try. For fine dining, Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant in Padstow is a popular choice, as is The Hidden Hut on the Roseland Peninsula for its beachside meals. For something casual, try Sennen Cove Café or Porthminster Beach Café in St Ives. Many seaside pubs offer freshly caught fish and chips along with stunning ocean views.

Shopping

Cornwall is known for its independent shops and artisan markets. In towns like St Ives, Falmouth, and Padstow, you’ll find boutiques selling handmade jewellery, local crafts, and artwork. Many coastal towns also have galleries featuring works by local artists inspired by Cornwall’s landscapes. The Cornish pasty shops and bakeries in each town are excellent for souvenirs, as are the local food markets where you can pick up Cornish cheeses, jams, and preserves.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Cornwall is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summer is the busiest season, with July and August drawing large crowds to popular beaches and towns. For a quieter experience, visit in May, June, or September, when the weather is pleasant but less crowded. Winter brings a quieter, stormy beauty to the coastline, perfect for a cosy break by the sea.

Local Events

Cornwall has a lively calendar of events, from music festivals to traditional celebrations. The St Ives September Festival is a cultural highlight, featuring art exhibitions, live music, and workshops. The Eden Sessions at the Eden Project bring top music acts to Cornwall in summer. The Padstow Obby Oss Festival in May is one of Cornwall’s oldest traditions, celebrating spring with parades and music. During the Christmas season, Mousehole’s Christmas Lights bring a festive atmosphere to the harbour.

Exploring Beyond Cornwall

While Cornwall itself is packed with attractions, the nearby Devon coastline and Dartmoor National Park are also worth exploring if you have extra time. Both areas offer more beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The Isles of Scilly, located just off Cornwall’s coast, can be reached by ferry or a short flight and offer stunning beaches and a relaxed island vibe.

With its spectacular coastlines, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, Cornwall is a destination that captures the essence of English coastal life. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, enjoying world-class seafood, or simply relaxing on a beach, Cornwall promises a memorable experience for every visitor.