To inspire your next escape to Cornwall, we’ve listed our top 10 favourite things to do on a getaway. Think of it as the definitive guide to the UK’s top holiday destination:
1. Walk or boat to St Michael’s Mount
St Michael’s Mount is a huge tidal island complete with stunning castle on top — do we need to convince you further? If you haven’t visited or viewed it from the shore, this will need to go on the bucket list. For the best views stay in Mount’s Bay.
2. Surf Newquay
It might seem cliché, but everyone should make the pilgrimage to Newquay’s church of surf at one point in their life. Whether you’re a keen beginner or stylish pro, the overabundance of beaches means there’s a wave for any skill level.
3. See the seals at Godrevy
If you haven’t seen a blubbery seal on a beach in the UK, then this is a must for you. Throughout the year these creatures can be seen lazing on Mutton Cove near Gwithian and Godrevy — go between October-November for the best chance to see fluffy seal pups.
4. Eat a (good) pasty
When so many places claim to make the “best pasty in the world”, where do you start? We haven’t got time to name them all, but a good start is Trevaskis Farm near Gwithian — they’re lush!
5. Go coasteering
For those seeking an adrenaline-filled way to get some vitamin sea, we recommend trying coasteering on Cornwall’s rugged north coast. Port Gaverne is a great base for this sort of adventuring.
6. Kayak a secret creek
For a more serene nautical experience, south Cornwall’s numerous rivers and creeks are great fun to explore with a kayak — especially when a pub is involved! The Helford or Fowey River are particular favourites of ours.
7. Soak up some art!
Cornwall has attracted stacks of artists over the years, and there isn’t a better place to see this creativity than the Tate in St Ives.
8. Have some fresh seafood
There are few places where a fish goes from catch to plate this rapidly. We recommend The Shore, a restaurant in Penzance that takes its seafood seriously.
9. Explore a fishing village!
A visit to Cornwall isn’t complete without visiting one or more of the numerous quaint fishing villages and pretending you’re on a set of Doc Martin.
TOP TIP: Mousehole is a beautiful yet overlooked village compared to busier places on the north coast.
10. Walk a section of the South West Coast Path
Popularised by The Salt Path, the South West Coast Path is the longest waymarked footpath in England. Pick up the path anywhere and you’ll see Cornwall’s landscape change into sheer cliffs, expansive beaches, rolling dunes and babbling rivers. Here are some of our favourite sections.