The Best Things to See and Do in Cornwall
Though Cornwall may be famous for its outstanding beaches, the county is also stuffed with historical landmarks, picturesque fishing villages, renowned galleries and some of Britain’s most magnificent countryside. And the beaches are pretty special, too.
The Celtic kingdom of Cornwall is one of the prettiest counties in England. Famed for sprawling moors, rugged coastline and delightful harbourside towns, the region is classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Together with some wanderlust-inducing photos, this handy guide recommends only the top Cornwall highlights for the perfect UK staycation.
1. Learn to surf in Newquay
Natural Feature
2. Reach Britain’s southernmost landmark at Lizard Point
Natural Feature
4. Explore St Michael’s Mount
Church
5. Nurse a pint in Mousehole Harbour
Natural Feature
The title for Cornwall’s prettiest fishing village is hotly contested, but few can beat the cuteness of Mousehole. With its maze of whitewashed cottages, cobbled streets crammed with galleries and cafés and colourful boats bobbing in the harbour, the village is the perfect place to get away from it all and relax. Find a low-beamed pub to while away the afternoon, or spread out with a picnic on the small sandy beach watching fishermen return with their catch.
6. Stand on the edge of England at Land's End
Natural Feature
7. Walk in King Arthur’s footsteps at Tintagel Castle
Ruins
8. Go deep into the jungle at the Lost Gardens of Heligan
Park
9. Take a dip in St Ives Bay
Natural Feature
A dead ringer for the Caribbean when the sun’s out, St Ives Bay has the blinding white sand, endless skies and glittering cobalt sea with none of the jet lag. Surfers and families flock to enjoy the bay’s stunning Blue Flag beaches with views out to Godrevy Lighthouse and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The beach-weary can take refuge in upmarket St Ives with its tranquil harbour, world-class seafood restaurants and popular Tate St Ives gallery. This old fishing town is also one of the best for sampling the region’s signature snack: the mince meat-filled Cornish pasty.
10. Be wowed by Cornwall’s most beautiful beach at Kynance Cove
Natural Feature
11. Catch a show at Porthcurno
Natural Feature
12. Swim lengths at Bude Sea Pool
Swimming Pool
When you don’t fancy braving the waves, the huge outdoor swimming pool in the rocks at Summerleaze Beach is the ideal alternative. Built in 1930, the tidal pool is washed by the sea twice a day, yet is often warmer than the open water, making it great for kids, serious swimmers and anyone craving sea views without the Atlantic chill.
13. Explore the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
Museum
14. Discover rare and tropical plants in the eco-friendly Eden Project
Park
This an updated version of an article originally written by Jessica Buck
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