Cornwall is a beautiful county located in the southwest of England, and it’s a place that you should definitely visit if you haven’t already. Cornwall has a lot to offer, from stunning beaches to picturesque villages and historical landmarks. It’s a popular destination for visitors from all over the world, and for good reason.
One of the best things about Cornwall is its beaches. With over 300 miles of coastline, Cornwall has some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, and they’re perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Some of the most popular beaches in Cornwall include Fistral Beach, Porthcurno Beach, and St Ives Bay. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a lively beach with plenty of activities, you’re sure to find it in Cornwall.
Another great thing about Cornwall is its rich history and culture. From the ancient ruins of Tintagel Castle to the picturesque fishing villages of St Ives and Mousehole, Cornwall is full of fascinating places to explore. You can also learn about Cornwall’s mining heritage at the Geevor Tin Mine Museum or take a trip to the famous Eden Project, a unique attraction that features biomes filled with plants from around the world. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or nature, Cornwall has something for everyone.
Natural Beauty and Beaches
Cornwall’s natural beauty is one of the main reasons why it is such a popular destination for tourists. The county is blessed with stunning coastlines, picturesque beaches, and exotic gardens that are sure to take your breath away. Here are some of the best things you can expect to see.
Stunning Coastline and Cliffs
Cornwall’s coastline is a sight to behold. The county boasts over 300 miles of coastline, which includes some of the most beautiful cliffs in the world. The Lizard Peninsula is particularly famous for its dramatic cliffs, which offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. One of the most popular spots on the peninsula is Kynance Cove, which is known for its crystal clear waters and unique rock formations.
Picturesque Beaches and Coves
Cornwall is home to some of the most picturesque beaches and coves in the world. The North Coast is particularly famous for its rugged coastline and wild beaches, while the South Coast is known for its sheltered coves and sandy beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in Cornwall include Summerleaze Beach, Fistral Beach, and Porthcurno Beach.
Exotic Gardens and Flora
Cornwall’s mild climate and fertile soil make it the perfect place for exotic gardens and flora. The county is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the world, including the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project. The gardens are home to a wide variety of flowers, including rare and exotic species that are not found anywhere else in the UK.
Overall, Cornwall’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline and cliffs or relaxing on one of the county’s many beaches, you’re sure to be amazed by the stunning scenery.
Cultural Heritage and Art
If you’re a lover of art and culture, Cornwall has plenty to offer. From historic towns and fishing villages to a vibrant art scene and galleries, there’s something for everyone.
Historic Towns and Fishing Villages
Cornwall is home to many charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and history. St Ives is a must-visit, with its narrow streets and picturesque harbour. Padstow is another popular destination, known for its seafood restaurants and quaint shops. If you’re interested in history, Penzance is a great place to explore, with its Georgian and Regency architecture and historic harbour.
Vibrant Art Scene and Galleries
Cornwall has long been a haven for artists, with its stunning landscapes and unique light. The Tate St Ives is a must-visit for art lovers, with its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. There are also many smaller galleries throughout Cornwall, showcasing the work of local artists. Newlyn is a particularly vibrant art community, with many galleries and studios to explore.
Cornish Legends and History
Cornwall is steeped in history and legend, with many fascinating stories to discover. Tintagel is a must-visit for anyone interested in the legend of King Arthur, with its dramatic castle ruins perched on the cliffs. Daphne du Maurier fans will also want to visit, as many of her novels are set in Cornwall. And no visit to Cornwall is complete without a trip to St Michael’s Mount, a stunning island castle with a rich history.
Overall, Cornwall’s cultural heritage and art scene are not to be missed. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just soaking up the local culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Adventure and Leisure Activities
Cornwall is a great destination for adventure and leisure activities. From surfing and kayaking to hiking and fishing, there is something for everyone. Here are the top activities to try:
Surfing and Water Sports
Cornwall is famous for its Atlantic waves, making it a great destination for surfing and other water sports. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Fistral Beach in Newquay is one of the most popular spots, while Sennen Cove is a great option for beginners. If you prefer kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, you can explore the River Fowey or the stunning estuary at Falmouth.
Hiking the South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is one of the most scenic hiking trails in the UK, stretching for over 600 miles along the coast of Cornwall, Devon, and Dorset. The Cornwall section is particularly beautiful, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged cliffs. You can choose to hike the entire trail or just a section of it. Some of the most popular sections include the St. Ives to Zennor walk and the Padstow to Tintagel walk.
Unique Local Experiences
Cornwall is also home to some unique local experiences. The Eden Project is a must-visit attraction, with its iconic biomes and stunning gardens. The Lost Gardens of Heligan is another popular destination, with its restored Victorian gardens and exotic plants. For a unique cultural experience, head to the Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre perched on the cliffs above Porthcurno. Finally, for a taste of adventure, try your hand at fishing in one of Cornwall’s many rivers or estuaries.
Local Cuisine and Specialties
When it comes to Cornwall, one of the things that stands out is the delicious local cuisine and specialties. From seafood to traditional dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Seafood and Traditional Dishes
Cornwall is known for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve up delicious dishes using locally sourced ingredients. The Tolcarne Inn in Newlyn is a great place to try some of the best seafood in Cornwall. Their menu features dishes like grilled mackerel, crab linguine, and pan-fried hake.
If you’re looking for something more traditional, you can’t go wrong with a Cornish pasty. These savory pastries are filled with meat, vegetables, and potatoes and are a staple of Cornish cuisine. You can find them at bakeries and cafes throughout the region.
Cornish Pasty and Other Delicacies
One of the most famous Cornish pasties is the one from Rick Stein’s bakery in Falmouth. These pasties are made with locally sourced ingredients and are baked fresh every day. They’re so popular that they even ship them all over the UK.
But Cornwall has more to offer than just pasties. There are plenty of other delicacies to try, like saffron buns, Cornish fairings, and hevva cake. Saffron buns are sweet, spiced buns that are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Cornish fairings are ginger biscuits that are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Hevva cake is a traditional Cornish cake that’s made with flour, butter, sugar, and currants.
Overall, Cornwall’s local cuisine and specialties are a must-try for anyone visiting the region. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of traditional dishes like Cornish pasties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
