Cornwall is a county located in the southwestern tip of England, known for its stunning coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and rich history. Covering an area of 1,376 square miles, Cornwall offers a variety of landscapes including sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and moorlands. As a popular tourist destination, visitors can explore the rich heritage at Tintagel Castle, walk the South West Coast Path, or experience the Eden Project, the world’s largest indoor rainforest. The area is also recognized for its Cornish pasties and clotted cream.
Google map of Cornwall
The Best Things to Do in Cornwall
St Ives
St Ives is a charming seaside town in Cornwall, situated on the Atlantic coast. Renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and vibrant art scene, St Ives attracts visitors year-round. The town is home to the Tate St Ives gallery and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, highlighting its significant artistic heritage. With a picturesque harbor, cobbled streets, and an array of independent shops, St Ives offers a quintessential Cornish experience.
Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle is a medieval fortress located on the rugged coastline of Cornwall, shrouded in Arthurian legends. Believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur, the castle’s ruins date back to the 13th century. The site, managed by English Heritage, offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The nearby village of Tintagel provides additional attractions, including the Old Post Office, a 14th-century stone building now managed by the National Trust.
Official website: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/
Google map 4.6/5
The Eden Project
The Eden Project is an iconic eco-tourist attraction in Cornwall, boasting the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Housed within two enormous biomes, it features thousands of plant species from around the world. The complex promotes environmental education and sustainable living, hosting various exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year. With its unique architecture and innovative approach to conservation, the Eden Project has become a must-visit destination for travelers to Cornwall.
Official website: https://www.edenproject.com
Google map 4.3/5
Land’s End
Land’s End is the most westerly point of mainland England, situated in Cornwall. Known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning coastal views, it is a popular destination for tourists and walkers alike. The nearby Land’s End Visitor Centre offers various attractions, including exhibitions, interactive displays, and family-friendly activities. The iconic signpost at the site marks the starting point of the famous 874-mile journey to John O’Groats in Scotland, making it a symbolic location for long-distance adventurers.
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Minack Theatre
Minack Theatre is an open-air amphitheater carved into the granite cliffs near Porthcurno, Cornwall. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a dramatic and unforgettable setting for plays and performances. Established in 1932 by Rowena Cade, the theatre showcases a variety of productions during its summer season. Visitors can also explore the subtropical gardens surrounding the venue or take guided tours to learn about the theatre’s history and construction.
Official website: https://minack.com
Google map 4.8/5
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is a restored 200-acre estate in Cornwall, featuring a diverse range of horticultural attractions. Once neglected and overgrown, the gardens were rediscovered and restored in the 1990s. Visitors can explore the Victorian Productive Gardens, Pleasure Grounds, and Jungle, home to exotic plants and wildlife. Heligan also offers educational programs and events, highlighting the importance of sustainable gardening and the preservation of historical landscapes.
Official website: https://www.heligan.com
Google map 4.6/5
Padstow
Padstow is a picturesque fishing port situated on the north coast of Cornwall. The town is known for its narrow streets, historic harbor, and vibrant food scene, with several renowned restaurants and cafes. A popular destination for seafood lovers, Padstow hosts the annual Padstow Christmas Festival, which features a variety of culinary demonstrations and market stalls. The town also serves as the starting point for the Camel Trail, a scenic walking and cycling route along a disused railway line.
St Michael’s Mount
St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island located off the coast of Marazion in Cornwall. Accessible by a causeway at low tide or boat during high tide, it is home to a medieval castle and chapel. Managed by the National Trust, the site offers panoramic views of Mount’s Bay and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can explore the castle’s historic rooms, stroll through the terraced gardens, or learn about the island’s rich history and legends through guided tours and exhibits.
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The Lizard Peninsula
The Lizard Peninsula is the southernmost point of mainland England, located in Cornwall. Known for its distinctive geology, rare flora and fauna, and stunning coastal scenery, the area attracts nature enthusiasts and walkers. The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, while the Lizard Lighthouse provides a glimpse into the region’s maritime history. Visitors can also explore picturesque fishing villages, such as Cadgwith and Mullion, which offer a true taste of Cornish life.
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Newquay
Newquay is a popular seaside resort town on the north coast of Cornwall, boasting some of the region’s finest sandy beaches and surf spots. The town attracts tourists for its vibrant nightlife, family-friendly attractions, and numerous watersports activities. Newquay is also home to the Blue Reef Aquarium and the iconic Fistral Beach, which hosts annual surf competitions. Visitors can explore the town’s charming harbor, coastal walks, and local shops, making it a lively destination for all ages.
Falmouth
Falmouth is a historic port town situated on the south coast of Cornwall, known for its deep natural harbor and maritime heritage. The town offers a blend of cultural attractions, including the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Pendennis Castle, and a vibrant art scene. Falmouth’s bustling town center features a range of independent shops, galleries, and eateries. With several beautiful beaches and coastal walks nearby, Falmouth is an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of history, culture, and outdoor pursuits.
Kynance Cove
Kynance Cove is a picturesque beach located on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall. With its turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic rock formations, the cove has become a popular destination for visitors seeking natural beauty. The beach is accessible via a winding footpath, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline. At low tide, visitors can explore sea caves, rock pools, and an array of marine life. Kynance Cove’s striking landscape and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-see destination in Cornwall.
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Porthcurno Beach
Porthcurno Beach is a stunning, sheltered cove located near the village of Porthcurno in Cornwall. With its soft white sand, turquoise waters, and rugged cliffs, the beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring. Nearby attractions include the Minack Theatre, carved into the granite cliffs, and the Porthcurno Telegraph Museum, which details the area’s role in global communications. Porthcurno Beach’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for visitors seeking a serene coastal retreat.
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Cornish Mining World Heritage Site
The Cornish Mining World Heritage Site is a collection of mining landscapes across Cornwall and west Devon, recognized by UNESCO for their significant contribution to the Industrial Revolution. The site comprises ten distinct areas, showcasing the region’s rich mining history and technological innovations from the 18th to early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore historic engine houses, mine workings, and cultural landmarks, such as the Levant Mine and Beam Engine, Geevor Tin Mine, and the Great Flat Lode. The site offers a unique insight into Cornwall’s industrial past and its impact on the global economy.
Mevagissey
Mevagissey is a picturesque fishing village on the south coast of Cornwall, known for its narrow streets, quaint cottages, and bustling harbor. The village’s rich fishing heritage is showcased in the Mevagissey Museum, which is housed in a historic boat builder’s workshop. Visitors can stroll along the harbor, dine on fresh seafood in local restaurants, or explore nearby coastal walks and beaches. Mevagissey also serves as a gateway to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a popular horticultural attraction in the area.
Sennen Cove
Sennen Cove is a scenic beach located near Land’s End in Cornwall, offering golden sand, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. Popular with surfers and families alike, the beach provides facilities for various watersports and beach activities. The small harbor nearby supports a local fishing community and offers boat trips for visitors. With its dramatic coastal scenery, Sennen Cove is an ideal destination for walkers, with easy access to the South West Coast Path and other nearby trails.
Google map 4.8/5
Port Isaac
Port Isaac is a picturesque fishing village located on the north coast of Cornwall, characterized by its narrow streets, traditional cottages, and historic harbor. The village has gained fame as the filming location for the popular television series “Doc Martin.” Visitors can explore the village’s charming lanes, dine on fresh seafood at local restaurants, or take scenic coastal walks along the South West Coast Path. Port Isaac offers a quintessential Cornish experience, combining natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Perranporth
Perranporth is a popular seaside resort on the north coast of Cornwall, known for its three-mile stretch of sandy beach and excellent surf conditions. The town offers various watersports facilities, beachside cafes, and local shops, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby attractions include the Perranporth Golf Club, which boasts stunning views of the coastline, and the Perranzabuloe Museum, which showcases the area’s rich history and local artifacts.
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Mousehole
Mousehole is a charming fishing village situated on the south coast of Cornwall, renowned for its narrow streets, granite cottages, and picturesque harbor. The village is steeped in history and folklore, including the story of Tom Bawcock, who braved stormy seas to feed the starving villagers. Visitors can enjoy the annual Tom Bawcock’s Eve festival, explore local art galleries, or sample traditional Cornish cuisine in cozy cafes. Mousehole also offers scenic coastal walks and easy access to other attractions along the Penwith Peninsula.
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Boscastle
Boscastle is a picturesque village located on the north coast of Cornwall, nestled within a steep valley and sheltered harbor. Known for its dramatic landscape and rich history, the village is home to the National Trust-owned Boscastle Harbour and the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic. Visitors can explore the scenic coastal walks, dine in local pubs and tearooms, or browse the village’s array of independent shops. Boscastle’s unique charm and natural beauty make it an enchanting destination for travelers.
Official website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
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Polperro
Polperro is a quaint fishing village on the south coast of Cornwall, characterized by its narrow streets, whitewashed cottages, and historic harbor. Steeped in maritime history, the village was once a thriving center for smuggling and fishing. Today, visitors can learn about Polperro’s past at the Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing, explore the scenic coastal paths, or take a leisurely boat trip along the coastline. With its charming atmosphere and picturesque setting, Polperro offers an authentic Cornish experience.
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Charlestown
Charlestown is a small port village near St Austell in Cornwall, famed for its well-preserved Georgian architecture and historic harbor. The village has been featured in numerous film and television productions, including the popular series “Poldark.” Visitors can explore the Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Centre, which showcases maritime history and artifacts, or stroll along the picturesque harbor, lined with tall ships and traditional buildings. Charlestown’s unique charm and rich heritage make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and visitors to Cornwall.
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Porthleven
Porthleven is a charming fishing village situated on the southwest coast of Cornwall, known for its historic harbor and distinctive clock tower. The village is renowned for its thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes serving fresh, locally sourced seafood. Porthleven also hosts an annual food and music festival, attracting visitors from across the region. With scenic coastal walks, a range of art galleries, and picturesque surroundings, Porthleven offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
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Google map Portleven Beach 4.6/5
Looe
Looe is a popular coastal town on the south coast of Cornwall, divided by the Looe River into East and West Looe. The town is known for its sandy beach, bustling harbor, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with independent shops, enjoy traditional Cornish cuisine in local eateries, or take a boat trip to Looe Island, a nature reserve and haven for local wildlife. With a range of attractions and activities on offer, Looe is an ideal destination for families and travelers seeking a lively seaside experience.
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Bude
Bude is a vibrant seaside town located on the north coast of Cornwall, known for its sandy beaches, excellent surf conditions, and picturesque canal. The town offers various watersports facilities, coastal walks, and family-friendly attractions, including Bude Castle and the Bude Sea Pool. Visitors can enjoy local shops, cafes, and restaurants, or explore nearby landmarks such as the Compass Point lookout and the historic Bude Canal. With its lively atmosphere and stunning coastal setting, Bude is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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Bodmin
Bodmin is a historic town situated in the heart of Cornwall, steeped in history and surrounded by stunning countryside. The town is known for its significant role in the Cornish Rebellion and as the former county town of Cornwall. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Bodmin Jail, the Bodmin and Wenford Railway, and the imposing St Petroc’s Church. The nearby Bodmin Moor offers scenic walks, Neolithic sites, and a range of outdoor activities. With its rich heritage and central location, Bodmin serves as an ideal base for those seeking to explore the wider Cornwall region.
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Google map Bodmin Moor 4.7/5
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