Cornwall is a picturesque county located in the South West region of England, known for its striking beaches, stunning coastlines, and significant history. It borders the county of Devon to the East.
As the ancestral home of the Cornish people, Cornwall stands out for its unique culture and language.
Millions of visitors flock to this county each year from across the UK and overseas. They are drawn to its myriad attractions, such as Land’s End, St Michael’s Mount, and the globally renowned Eden Project.
There are hundreds of sandy beaches in or near Newquay, Falmouth, Perranporth, Bude and St Ives.
Cornish Towns
Some of the significant Cornish towns (and city) are:
Truro
Recognised as Cornwall’s capital, Truro is a quaint city teeming with history. It hosts iconic sites like Truro Cathedral and the Cornwall Museum.
Falmouth
A harbour town on the south coast, Falmouth attracts tourists with its maritime heritage, encapsulated in sites like the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, the Falmouth Art Gallery, and Falmouth University.
Newquay
Nestled on Cornwall’s north coast, Newquay is a renowned seaside resort known for its excellent surfing and other water sports opportunities. It is also the home to Newquay Zoo, the Blue Reef Aquarium, and Waterworld.
St Ives
As a charming fishing town on Cornwall’s northern coast, St Ives is a magnet for artists and tourists alike, featuring attractions like the Tate St Ives, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, and the stunning Porthmeor Beach.
Places to See in Cornwall
Beyond the major towns and the city of Truro, there are many great places to see in Cornwall, including:
Land’s End
The westernmost point of England’s mainland, Land’s End offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a must-see for tourists.
St Michael’s Mount
A tidal island just off the coast, St Michael’s Mount houses a mediaeval castle and a Benedictine priory, making it an intriguing visit for history enthusiasts.
The Eden Project
This globally recognised science hub and tourist attraction in Cornwall showcases a variety of plants from across the globe within its unique biomes, including a rainforest, a Mediterranean habitat, and a desert.
The Minack Theatre
Situated on a cliff edge in Cornwall, the Minack Theatre offers unforgettable performances in a truly unique setting.
Tintagel Castle
As a historical ruin in Cornwall, Tintagel Castle is famous as the supposed birthplace of King Arthur.
The Lizard Peninsula
The secluded Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall is a haven for wildlife, housing a range of rare plants and animals.
Things to Do in Cornwall
This beautiful county has many attractions – things to do in Cornwall include:
Hiking: Cornwall boasts an array of trails like the South West Coast Path, one of the UK’s longest and most popular trails.
Surfing: Known for its impressive surfing beaches, Cornwall is a favourite spot for surf enthusiasts. Best places to surf in Cornwall include Fistral Beach Newquay, Perranporth, Gwithian near Hayle, Polzeath, Bude, St Ives and Sennen.
Fishing: The waters surrounding Cornwall are abundant with a variety of fish species, making it a popular fishing destination.
Sailing: With numerous sailing clubs and schools, Cornwall is an ideal location for sailing.
Golf: Home to several challenging golf courses, Cornwall is a golfer’s delight.
Culinary Experiences: Cornwall offers a wide array of restaurants and pubs, serving diverse foods and drinks, including traditional Cornish delicacies such as pasties and clotted cream.
Reasons to Visit Cornwall
Cornwall is famous for its beaches, food, and drinks, including its popular pasties and ciders. It also has a vibrant art scene, including the Tate St Ives, and a rich history with many castles and stately homes.
- Beautiful Beaches: Cornwall’s coastline is dotted with over 300 stunning beaches. From family-friendly beaches like Porthminster and Perranporth to the surfers’ paradises of Fistral and Polzeath, there’s a beach for everyone.
- Stunning Castles: Cornwall is home to many castles with St Michael’s Mount, Pendennis Castle, and Tintagel Castle, reputed birthplace of King Arthur, being amongst the most popular.
- Exciting Culture: The region is steeped in Celtic heritage and folklore. Immerse yourself in the Cornish culture by attending local festivals like the ‘Obby ‘Oss Day in Padstow or visiting the Museum of Witchcraft in Boscastle.
- Delicious Food and Drink: The county is famous for its culinary delights. You must try the traditional Cornish pasty, a hearty hand-held pie filled with meat and vegetables. Cornwall seafood, particularly its mussels and oysters, is also renowned. Don’t forget to sample some Cornish cider or a cream tea.
- Art Galleries: Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Tate St Ives or the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. The local art scene is vibrant, with many galleries displaying the work of local artists.
- Elegant Stately Homes: There are some fabulous stately homes and gardens. Visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan, explore the grandeur of Lanhydrock House, or marvel at the biomes of the Eden Project.
- Fun-filled Family Attractions: For family fun, check out the Eden Project, the Flambards Experience, or the National Maritime Museum. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from surfing and sailing to hiking and cycling.
- Exhilarating Foot and Cycle Trails: Cornwall’s countryside is crisscrossed with footpaths and cycle trails. The Camel Trail and the South West Coast Path are popular choices for walkers and cyclists.
While we’ve listed some highlights, there are many more attractions and reasons to visit Cornwall, with many natural beauty spots, and culinary delights to discover.
What Makes Cornwall Unique?
Cornwall’s uniqueness is exemplified in:
Its Celtic heritage: As one of the Celtic nations, Cornwall and its people boast a distinctive culture and language.
Its coastal beauty: Cornwall’s dramatic coastline is dotted with varied beaches, cliffs, and coves.
Its historical depth: a rich history extends back to the Bronze Age.
Its natural allure: Cornwall is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from beaches and moors to forests.
To sum up
Cornwall, with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and engaging activities, offers a unique and memorable experience for all visitors. Whether your interests lie in historical exploration, cultural immersion, natural beauty, or outdoor activities, Cornwall is an amazing place to live or visit and explore.