The Best Cities, Towns & Villages in South Cornwall

Truro is Cornwall’s only city, known for its striking cathedral, Georgian streets and lively shopping and dining scene. It blends historic charm with culture and offers easy access to Cornwall’s countryside and coastline.

Falmouth is a vibrant harbour town known for its maritime heritage, sandy beaches and creative atmosphere. Home to a deep natural harbour and thriving arts scene, it offers coastal walks, watersports and easy access to south Cornwall’s coastline.

St Austell is a large Cornish town known for its china clay heritage and proximity to the Eden Project and south coast beaches. It offers gardens, breweries and convenient access to nearby fishing villages and countryside attractions.

Fowey is a picturesque harbour town on Cornwall’s south coast, known for its narrow streets, sailing culture and scenic estuary views. Popular with writers and visitors alike, it blends maritime charm with independent shops, cafés and coastal walks.

Looe is a traditional fishing town on Cornwall’s south coast, known for its busy harbour, sandy beach and narrow winding streets. Popular for seafood, boat trips and coastal scenery, it offers classic Cornish seaside charm.

Mevagissey is a charming fishing village known for its twin harbours, narrow lanes and colourful waterfront. Popular for seafood, boat trips and traditional Cornish character, it sits close to the Lost Gardens of Heligan and south coast walks.

St Mawes is an elegant harbour village on the Roseland Peninsula, known for its waterfront setting, sailing culture and historic castle. Surrounded by scenic coastline and sheltered waters, it offers a peaceful and refined Cornish escape.

Rame Peninsula is a peaceful coastal area known for its secluded beaches, rolling countryside and traditional fishing villages. Often called Cornwall’s forgotten corner, it offers scenic walks, historic forts and easy access to Plymouth by ferry.

Liskeard is a traditional market town on the edge of Bodmin Moor, known for its historic centre and access to Cornwall’s countryside and coast. It’s a convenient base for walking, heritage sites and exploring south-east Cornwall.

Lostwithiel is a historic riverside town known for its medieval heritage, antique shops and relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by wooded countryside near the River Fowey, it offers a quieter side of Cornwall with easy access to coast and moorland.