Things To Do In Cornwall UK: Top Attractions and Hidden Gems

Visit Cornwall for stunning beaches, historic sites, and picturesque villages. Explore coastal paths, charming towns, and delicious local cuisine.

Cornwall, located in the southwestern tip of the UK, is a prime destination for travelers. Famous for its stunning coastline, Cornwall boasts some of the best beaches in the UK, perfect for surfing and sunbathing. The region is rich in history, with landmarks like Tintagel Castle and the Eden Project.

Picturesque villages such as St Ives and Padstow offer unique shopping and dining experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the scenic coastal paths and various water sports. Cornwall’s local cuisine, particularly its seafood, is a must-try. A visit to Cornwall guarantees a blend of natural beauty, history, and culinary delights.

Beaches And Coastal Walks

Cornwall, UK is a paradise for beach lovers and hikers. Its stunning beaches and scenic coastal paths attract visitors from around the world. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Cornwall’s coastline offers something for everyone.

Best Beaches

Cornwall boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. Here are a few you must visit:

Beach	Highlights
Fistral Beach	Perfect for surfing, golden sands, vibrant atmosphere
St Ives Bay	Family-friendly, clear waters, stunning views
Kynance Cove	Turquoise waters, white sand, picturesque scenery
Perranporth Beach	Long stretches of sand, great for walking, dog-friendly

Scenic Coastal Paths

The coastal paths in Cornwall offer breathtaking views and invigorating walks. Here are some top trails:

• South West Coast Path: This path stretches over 600 miles. It offers stunning cliff views and diverse landscapes.
• St Michael’s Way: A shorter trail of 12 miles. It provides a mix of coastal and countryside scenery.
• Lizard Peninsula: Known for its rugged beauty. This path features wildflowers and dramatic cliffs.
• Bedruthan Steps: Offers a challenging walk with rewarding views. The rock formations are a highlight.

Remember to bring your camera, as these paths are perfect for photography. Enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of Cornwall’s coast.

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Historic Sites

Cornwall is rich in history. Discover ancient castles and stately homes. Explore the tales and grandeur of these historic sites.

Ancient Castles

Step back in time at Cornwall’s ancient castles. These fortresses tell stories of battles and kings. Visit Tintagel Castle, linked to King Arthur’s legends. The ruins stand on a rugged cliff, offering breathtaking views.

St Michael’s Mount is another must-see. This castle sits on a tidal island. Walk the causeway at low tide or take a boat. The castle’s history spans centuries, with tales of monks and pirates.

Launceston Castle is in the heart of Cornwall. Climb the keep for panoramic views. The castle’s history dates back to the Norman conquest.

Castle Name	Key Features	Location
Tintagel Castle	King Arthur’s Legends, Cliff Views	Tintagel
St Michael’s Mount	Tidal Island, Monks and Pirates	Marazion
Launceston Castle	Norman Keep, Panoramic Views	Launceston

Stately Homes

Cornwall boasts magnificent stately homes. They showcase architectural splendor and rich histories. Visit Lanhydrock House for a glimpse into Victorian life. The house has over 50 rooms, each filled with treasures.

Trerice House is a beautiful Elizabethan manor. Its walled gardens and maze are perfect for a family outing. The house’s interiors feature intricate woodwork and period furnishings.

Cotehele House is another gem. This Tudor house overlooks the River Tamar. Explore its gardens, orchards, and medieval Great Hall.

• Lanhydrock House: Victorian Splendor, Over 50 Rooms
• Trerice House: Elizabethan Manor, Walled Gardens
• Cotehele House: Tudor House, River Views

Gardens And Parks

Cornwall, UK, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its gardens and parks offer serene beauty and diverse flora. Explore the natural wonders of this stunning region. Discover Cornwall’s lush landscapes and vibrant botanical displays.

Botanical Gardens

Cornwall boasts some of the UK’s most beautiful botanical gardens. One of the most famous is the Lost Gardens of Heligan. These gardens cover over 200 acres of land. You can find ancient woodlands and subtropical plants here. The garden also has a jungle area with exotic plants.

The Eden Project is another must-visit spot. It features massive biomes housing plants from around the world. The Rainforest Biome is the largest indoor rainforest in the world. The Mediterranean Biome showcases plants from the Mediterranean, South Africa, and California. Each biome offers a unique experience and stunning views.

Trebah Garden is perfect for families. It has beautiful pathways and a private beach. Children will love the adventure play area. The garden also hosts events and workshops throughout the year.

National Parks

Cornwall’s national parks provide a mix of rugged landscapes and peaceful spots. Dartmoor National Park offers vast moorlands and deep river valleys. It’s ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. The park is home to wild ponies, birds, and rare plants.

Bodmin Moor is another stunning park. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The moorland is dotted with granite tors and ancient stone circles. It’s perfect for walking and exploring history.

National Park	Key Features
Dartmoor National Park	Wild ponies, hiking trails, river valleys
Bodmin Moor	Granite tors, ancient stone circles, scenic walks

For a mix of gardens and parks, Mount Edgcumbe Country Park is ideal. It combines formal gardens with woodlands and coastal paths. The park also has historical buildings and stunning sea views.

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Cultural Attractions

Cornwall, a place rich in history and culture, offers numerous cultural attractions. From fascinating museums to vibrant local festivals, there’s something for everyone. Discover the unique and diverse cultural experiences that Cornwall has to offer.

Museums And Galleries

Cornwall boasts a variety of museums and galleries that showcase its rich heritage. These venues are perfect for history buffs and art lovers.

• Tate St Ives: A modern gallery with stunning seaside views. It exhibits contemporary British art and international works.
• Royal Cornwall Museum: Located in Truro, this museum displays Cornish history and archaeology. It has collections of minerals, fine art, and ancient artifacts.
• Penlee House Gallery & Museum: Situated in Penzance, it focuses on the Newlyn School of Art. It also has local history exhibits.
• Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden: Dedicated to the famous sculptor, this museum in St Ives features her works and personal collections.

Local Festivals

Cornwall hosts a variety of local festivals throughout the year. These festivals celebrate the region’s traditions, music, and food.

1. Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival: A popular event in June. It celebrates maritime music with performances from around the world.
2. Boardmasters Festival: Held in August in Newquay. This festival combines live music, surfing, and beach culture.
3. St Ives September Festival: A two-week event featuring music, art, and literature. It includes exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
4. Padstow May Day: A traditional festival with dancing, singing, and a colorful procession. Locals celebrate the arrival of spring.

These cultural attractions in Cornwall provide endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Whether you’re visiting museums or joining local festivals, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

Outdoor Adventures

Cornwall offers a variety of outdoor adventures for everyone. From thrilling surfing spots to serene hiking trails, there’s something for every nature lover. Let’s explore some of the best outdoor activities you can enjoy in Cornwall.

Surfing Spots

Cornwall is famous for its excellent surfing spots. The waves here attract surfers from all over the world. Here are some of the top surfing spots:

• Fistral Beach: Known for its consistent waves, it’s perfect for both beginners and experts.
• Watergate Bay: A two-mile stretch of beach that offers great waves and beautiful scenery.
• Polzeath Beach: Ideal for beginners, with plenty of surf schools available.

Hiking Trails

If you love hiking, Cornwall has some amazing trails. These trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Check out these popular hiking trails:

1. South West Coast Path: This trail offers stunning coastal views and is great for all skill levels.
2. St. Michael’s Way: A historic trail that offers a mix of countryside and coastal scenery.
3. Minack Theatre Walk: This trail combines beautiful landscapes with a visit to the famous Minack Theatre.

Whether you’re surfing or hiking, Cornwall’s outdoor adventures are unforgettable. Get ready to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of this amazing destination.

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Food And Drink

Cornwall is a treasure trove for food lovers. From fresh seafood to traditional pasties, there is something to delight every palate. Whether you crave a hearty meal or a refreshing drink, Cornwall offers a variety of options.

Local Cuisine

The local cuisine in Cornwall is rich and diverse. The Cornish pasty is a must-try. This pastry is filled with beef, potatoes, and onions. It’s a hearty and delicious meal.

Seafood is another highlight. Try the fresh catch of the day. Popular choices include crab, lobster, and mussels. Many local restaurants serve these dishes with a modern twist.

For dessert, indulge in a cream tea. This includes scones, clotted cream, and jam. It’s a sweet way to experience Cornish culture.

Best Pubs

Cornwall boasts some of the best pubs in the UK. These establishments offer a cozy atmosphere and great food.

The Watering Hole is a popular choice. Located on Perranporth Beach, it offers stunning views. Their menu includes classic pub fare and local seafood.

The Sloop Inn in St Ives is another gem. It dates back to 1312 and has a charming, historic vibe. Enjoy their range of ales and traditional dishes.

Blue Anchor in Helston is famous for its own brewed beer. The pub has been brewing since the 15th century. Their Spingo ale is a must-try.

Pub Name	Location	Specialty
The Watering Hole	Perranporth Beach	Seafood
The Sloop Inn	St Ives	Ales
Blue Anchor	Helston	Spingo ale

Family Activities

Cornwall is a paradise for families. It offers a range of activities for all ages. From thrilling amusement parks to educational zoos and aquariums, Cornwall has it all. Here are some exciting family activities you can enjoy.

Zoos And Aquariums

Visiting zoos and aquariums is always fun for families. Cornwall has several options that promise a memorable experience.

Attraction	Description
Newquay Zoo	Home to over 1,000 animals, Newquay Zoo offers a great day out. Kids love the interactive exhibits and feeding times.
Blue Reef Aquarium	This aquarium features fascinating marine life. Walk through the underwater tunnel and marvel at the colorful fish and sharks.

These zoos and aquariums also offer educational programs. Kids learn about wildlife conservation in a fun way.

Amusement Parks

Amusement parks in Cornwall provide endless fun and excitement. They are perfect for families looking to enjoy some thrill rides and games.

• Flambards Theme Park

  Flambards offers thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. Don’t miss the Victorian Village and the Britain in the Blitz exhibits.

• Camel Creek Adventure Park

  This park features rides for all ages. It also has animal encounters and indoor play areas for younger children.

Both parks have dining options and picnic areas. Families can spend the whole day enjoying rides and games.

Hidden Gems

Cornwall, UK is brimming with hidden gems. These secret spots offer unique experiences away from the crowds. Discover secluded beaches, quirky attractions, and offbeat places. Let’s dive into some of these hidden treasures.

Secret Beaches

Cornwall has some of the most beautiful beaches. Yet, some remain less known. These secret beaches offer tranquility and stunning views.

• Porthcurno Beach: A small cove with turquoise waters.
• Pedn Vounder: A hidden gem near Porthcurno, known for its sandy shores.
• Gwenver Beach: Less crowded, perfect for surfing and relaxing.

Offbeat Attractions

Cornwall isn’t just about beaches. It has quirky and offbeat attractions. These places offer unique experiences and stories.

• The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic: Located in Boscastle, it has a fascinating collection of magical artifacts.
• The Lost Gardens of Heligan: Once forgotten, now beautifully restored with rare plants.
• Jamaica Inn: A historic inn with tales of smugglers and ghosts.

These hidden gems make Cornwall even more special. They offer a chance to explore and discover unique places. Enjoy your adventure in Cornwall!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Top Attractions In Cornwall?

Cornwall is famous for its stunning beaches, such as Fistral Beach and Porthcurno Beach. Don’t miss the Eden Project, a unique eco-park, and the historic Tintagel Castle, linked to King Arthur legends.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Cornwall?

The best time to visit Cornwall is between May and September. The weather is warm, and most attractions are open. Avoid peak summer for fewer crowds.

Is Cornwall Family-friendly?

Yes, Cornwall is very family-friendly. It offers numerous activities like beach outings, aquarium visits, and family-friendly festivals. Many accommodations cater specifically to families.

What Outdoor Activities Can I Do In Cornwall?

Cornwall offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can go surfing, hiking along the South West Coast Path, and enjoy kayaking or sailing in its beautiful coastal waters.

Conclusion

Cornwall, UK, offers a wealth of activities for all. From stunning beaches to historic sites, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit and explore the hidden gems. Don’t miss out on the local cuisine and vibrant culture. Cornwall promises unforgettable memories and endless adventures.

Make your trip unforgettable with these exciting activities.