Cornwall England Map Cornish

Introduction

Cornwall is a picturesque county located in the southwest of England, known for its stunning beaches, rugged coastline, and charming villages. The region is steeped in history, with ancient landmarks and architectural marvels dating back to the Neolithic era. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Cornwall has something to offer. This travel guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that Cornwall has to offer.

Top Attractions

St. Michael’s Mount

St. Michael’s Mount is a tidal island located in Mount’s Bay, near the town of Marazion. The island is home to a medieval castle and a beautiful garden, and can be reached by a causeway at low tide or by boat at high tide.

Eden Project

The Eden Project is a world-famous attraction that features two biomes, containing plants from all over the world. Visitors can explore the Mediterranean Biome, which houses plants from the Mediterranean region, or the Rainforest Biome, which houses plants from tropical rainforests.

Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle is a medieval fortification located on the north coast of Cornwall. The castle is associated with the legend of King Arthur and is said to be the birthplace of the legendary king.

Hidden Gems

Porthcurno Beach

Porthcurno Beach is a secluded cove located near Land’s End. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Minack Theatre

The Minack Theatre is an open-air theatre located on a cliff overlooking Porthcurno Beach. The theatre hosts plays and musicals throughout the summer months and offers breathtaking views of the sea.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a restored Victorian garden located near St Austell. The garden features exotic plants and sculptures and is a great place to explore and relax.

Food Scene

Cornwall is known for its delicious seafood, pasties, and cream teas. Visitors can sample fresh fish and chips at Rick Stein’s Fish & Chips in Padstow, or indulge in a traditional Cornish pasty at Philps in Hayle. For a quintessential Cornish experience, head to a local tea room for a cream tea, consisting of scones, clotted cream, and jam.

Budget-Friendly Tips

To save money on accommodation, consider camping or staying in a hostel. Cornwall has a number of campsites and hostels that offer affordable accommodation in stunning locations. Visitors can also save money on food by sampling local produce at farmers’ markets and cooking their own meals.

Outdoor Adventures

Cornwall is a great destination for outdoor activities, with miles of coastline and rugged countryside to explore. Visitors can go surfing at Fistral Beach in Newquay, hike along the South West Coast Path, or go kayaking in St Ives Bay.

Family-Friendly Activities

Cornwall is a great destination for families, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep children entertained. Families can visit the Newquay Zoo, explore the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, or take a ride on the Bodmin and Wenford Railway.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

For a unique experience, visitors can explore the abandoned village of Tyneham, which was evacuated during World War II and has been left untouched ever since. Visitors can also visit the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle, which explores the history of witchcraft and magic in Cornwall.

Natural Wonders

Cornwall is home to a number of natural wonders, including the Minack Theatre, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, and the Eden Project. Visitors can also explore the Lizard Peninsula, which is home to rare plants and wildlife, or visit the Tamar Valley, which features stunning views of the River Tamar.

Vibrant Nightlife

Cornwall has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from. Visitors can enjoy live music at the Watering Hole in Perranporth, sample local beers at the Harbour Brewing Company in Bodmin, or dance the night away at Koola in Newquay.

Local Markets

Cornwall has a number of local markets that offer a range of handmade crafts and local produce. Visitors can explore the St Ives Farmers’ Market, the Truro Farmers’ Market, or the Falmouth Artisan Market.

Beaches and Mountains

Cornwall is known for its stunning beaches, with miles of coastline to explore. Visitors can relax on the golden sands of Porthmeor Beach in St Ives, or explore the rugged cliffs and coves of the Lizard Peninsula. For a mountain adventure, visitors can hike up Brown Willy, the highest point in Cornwall.

Cultural Immersion

Cornwall has a rich cultural heritage, with a unique language and customs that are still celebrated today. Visitors can learn about Cornish culture at the Cornwall Heritage Centre in Redruth, or attend a traditional Cornish folk festival, such as the Golowan Festival in Penzance.

Art and Music Scene

Cornwall has a thriving art and music scene, with a number of galleries and venues showcasing local talent. Visitors can explore the Tate St Ives, which houses a collection of modern art, or attend a concert at the Hall for Cornwall in Truro.

Walking Tours

Cornwall is a great destination for walking tours, with miles of countryside and coastline to explore. Visitors can take a guided tour of the historic town of Fowey, or explore the ancient ruins of Tintagel Castle.

Architectural Marvels

Cornwall is home to a number of architectural marvels, including the Gothic-style Truro Cathedral and the medieval castle of St. Michael’s Mount. Visitors can also explore the remains of the ancient Roman settlement at Tintagel Castle, or marvel at the engineering feat of the Tamar Bridge.

Historical Sites

Cornwall is steeped in history, with ancient landmarks and historical sites dating back to the Neolithic era. Visitors can explore the Bronze Age burial site of Trethevy Quoit, or visit the historic Bodmin Jail, which dates back to the 18th century.

Biking Routes

Cornwall has a number of scenic biking routes, with stunning views of the countryside and coastline. Visitors can cycle the Camel Trail, which follows the course of a disused railway line, or explore the Cornish Way, which stretches from Land’s End to Bude.

Wellness Retreats

Cornwall is a great destination for wellness retreats, with a number of spas and yoga studios offering relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can book a spa day at the Scarlet Hotel in Newquay, or take a yoga class at the Yoga Space in St Ives.

Adventure Sports

Cornwall is a great destination for adventure sports, with a number of activities to choose from. Visitors can go coasteering in Newquay, bouldering in Penzance, or kiteboarding in Falmouth.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and thriving culture, Cornwall is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or sample local cuisine, Cornwall has something to offer.