Cornwall is an absolute gem of a area to go to in England. With its beautiful seashores, quaint fishing villages and pure magnificence, it’s the sort of place you may simply spend every week travelling round. That being stated, with it being fairly a big space, it may be tough to nail down one of the best areas in Cornwall to go to as a part of your vacation or highway journey.
Through the years, we’ve explored Cornwall many occasions. It’s gorgeous, particularly within the hotter summer time months when you may take a dip within the sea and actually get pleasure from its superb seashores. Better of all, Cornwall is the right place for a calming vacation, or perhaps a highway journey across the wider area. It’s completely suited to each, and all ages!
So, that will help you alongside in your merry means, I wish to share our high locations in Cornwall that you simply can’t miss. This fashion, you may concentrate on these all-important experiences and the vital stuff, like what number of Cornish Pasties you may feasibly eat!
1.) St Michael’s Mount
Simply one of many area’s most iconic locations, St Michael’s Mount (Google Maps pin) is an absolute gem to go to in Cornwall. Actually, I’d say it’s among the finest areas in Cornwall to go to in case you’re driving down the south coast or anchoring your self in close by St. Ives or Penzance.
Now, what makes St. Michael’s Mount is its gorgeous location, on a picturesque tidal island off the shores of Cornwall. Now, you would possibly discover it has a really comparable resemblance to Mont Saint-Michel in France. Effectively, it was constructed and influenced by its French counterpart many centuries in the past. We received’t name out Cornwall as a copycat, however they definitely weren’t going to be left behind after France’s gorgeous building!


As soon as right here, you may wander round St Michael’s Mount, head contained in the spectacular buildings and spend a very good two hours exploring the broader space of the island, the walled gardens and cease by the Harbour Loft for a lightweight lunch.
Oh, and be careful for giants! Folklore from Cornwall suggests that St. Michael’s Mount was inhabited by Cormoran, a large. The cave on the tidal island is the place the large is claimed to have (or does) dwell, so be sure you hold your eyes peeled.
Additionally, don’t overlook, you may e-book this non-public information in case you don’t fancy navigating all of the winding roads and locations while in Cornwall. This wonderful non-public tour is with a totally certified information, and you may take as much as six folks with you. Plus, this information utterly tailors your journey relying in your likes and proximity. It’s a useful method to discover the broader area, with none of the stress of planning it your self.
Learn extra: Finest seashores in Cornwall to go to
2.) Minack Theatre
Simply certainly one of England’s most spectacular open-air theatres, the Minack Theatre is a spot you may’t miss when visiting Cornwall. Additionally, it’s simply down the highway from close by Penzance. Effectively, about 20 minutes within the automobile.
In the summertime months, performances are held within the Minack Theatre. Particularly, from Could to September. So, if you wish to catch one, be certain your journey matches the theatre’s schedule. The primary exhibits on the Minack Theatre had been held virtually 100 years in the past, and because the years glided by, the dimensions of the venue additionally elevated.
Although, don’t fret in case you can’t make a present. You may nonetheless tour the Minack Theatre and discover the grounds right here. Oh, and cease off at Porthcurno Seashore (Google Maps pin), which the theatre overlooks. It’s a shocking little seashore and a sandy paradise in Cornwall.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do when in Plymouth
3.) Rame Head
We expect that Rame Head (Google Maps pin) is likely one of the finest areas in Cornwall to go to in case you’re staying in Plymouth, however fancy a little bit time within the close by countryside.
As soon as right here, comply with the paths alongside the Rame Head Heritage Coast and cease off at St Michael’s Chapel (Google Maps pin). The stroll is completely pretty, particularly in case you can plan to go to round sundown. It’s simply wonderful.
Additionally, in case you’re on a wider stroll of the shoreline alongside Rame Head, be certain to identify Queen Adelaide’s Grotto (Google Maps pin), which is going through Cawsand Bay. The surroundings is simply breathtaking.
Getting peckish? Head to The Devonport Inn, which is simply in close by Kingsand. They do a tasty Sunday roast, and their baked camembert is so good.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do when in Plymouth
4.) Newquay
Newquay is likely one of the most well-known and finest areas in Cornwall to go to, that’s gained traction over the past century. Identified for its gorgeous seashores, browsing, and a vibrant nightlife, the city is a hive of exercise, for what’s a comparatively small city in Cornwall.
If it’s seashores you’re after while visiting Newquay, be certain to go to Fistral Seashore (Google Maps pin), Newquay Seashore or Watergate Bay. The previous two are inside stroll
ing distance of the city’s streets, and Watergate Bay is simply up the highway.


We had heaps of enjoyable in Newquay and beloved our keep on the Watergate Bay Lodge. They’ve beautiful rooms and gorgeous eating places in case you’re in search of dinner by the seashore.
If you happen to’re spending a while in Newquay city itself, then be certain to cease off on the Concho Lounge for a scrumptious lunch. It’s such a calming vibe and their milkshakes are so good, too. Additionally, one other great place for a sundown dinner is the Fort Inn. Their fish finger rolls are tremendous yummy.
Learn extra: What it’s like to remain at Watergate Bay Lodge
5.) St Ives


Simply shy of Penzance, St Ives is a beautiful seaside city that’s effectively price visiting when exploring Cornwall. Actually, the entire space round St Ives Bay is gorgeous, and the seashores listed here are lovely.
As soon as right here, be certain to pop into the Tate St Ives, which is likely one of the UK’s 4 iconic Tate galleries. As soon as inside, you’ll have the ability to discover the magnificent fashionable artwork assortment housed within the exhibition rooms, right here. It’s a shocking gallery, and effectively price a gander once you’re in St Ives itself. Visits take round 45 minutes, and you may seize these advance tickets right here.




Additionally, be certain to go to both Porthmeor Seashore or Porthminster Seashore for a little bit dip within the sunny summer time climate. On the latter, you’ve got the Porthminster Seashore Cafe, and so they have the freshest seafood within the space. We beloved the mackerel and hake.
Learn extra: Finest locations to see on the coast of Cornwall
6.) Port Isaac


The tiny fishing village of Port Isaac (Google Maps pin) is situated on Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast. It is a picturesque little city, and among the finest areas in Cornwall that you simply shouldn’t miss when driving down the northern shoreline.
Now, you may simply spend a good few enjoyable hours in Port Isaac, and though it’s fairly small, it’s pretty to discover on foot. As soon as right here, be certain to cease off at The Golden Lion for a tasty lunch. Their freshly-caught mussels are so yummy. So is their sticky toffee pudding for dessert.


Afterwards, take a stroll round Port Isaac (it’s actually small and tremendous straightforward to stroll round). You may, then, discover the little streets and stroll alongside the coastal walks as you’re taking your time in Port Isaac.
If it’s seashores you’re after, head simply exterior Port Isaac to Polzeath Seashore (Google Maps pin). It’s a lot much less busy than a few of the extra widespread spots in Cornwall, however no much less fairly!
Learn extra: Finest locations to see on the coast of Cornwall
7.) Lizard Level


Lizard Level is the southernmost level of the UK and among the finest areas in Cornwall to probe for a ramble. You see, the entire space round Lizard Level is gorgeous, and that is an outcrop of land on Cornwall’s South Coast that’s simply unbelievable to go to, particularly at sundown.
If you happen to like pure magnificence, Lizard Peninsula will simply match proper into your Cornwall plans, and it feels so untouched and unspoilt. We love the realm.
If you’re within the space, you’ll absolutely stroll alongside the Lizard Coastal stroll, which leads inland and takes you again to the place you began. The Kynance Cove (Google Maps pin) within the space can be a must-see. Actually, I’d go so far as saying it’s among the finest sundown spots within the UK.
Learn extra: Finest castles in Cornwall to go to
8.) Fowey
Not too removed from St Austell, Fowey (Google Maps pin) is a beautiful seaside city to go to when travelling the southern shorelines of Cornwall. Now, it may be small, nevertheless it’s pretty to walk round.
As soon as right here, take a stroll to St Catherine’s Citadel, which was constructed virtually 500 years in the past. Visits take round 40 minutes, and it’s so price going contained in the ruins to be taught extra concerning the citadel and its noble residents. Better of all, visits are free.
Additionally, don’t overlook to board the Fowey to Polruan boat. It’s simply throughout the bay and takes mere minutes to navigate the waters. It’s a terrific city to go to for lunch, as you may head to the Lugger Inn for his or her yummy Sunday roasts.
9.) Falmouth


Falmouth could also be one of the well-known vacation getaway locations in Cornwall, and one spot that’s price visiting if you wish to go to a bigger city.
That is the place you’ll discover the Fal River estuary, Pendennis Citadel, Trebah Backyard, the coastal fortress of Henry VIII and different lovely seashores and impartial retailers. Speaking of impartial retailers, it’s worthwhile to go to Beerwolf Books. It’s so quaint and so they even have their pub for some native draught beers and gin.
Additionally, don’t overlook about visiting the Falmouth Artwork Gallery, head contained in the Nationwide Maritime Museum Cornwall and stroll the harbour entrance.
In my view, you don’t must spend longer than half a day in Falmouth, nevertheless it’s definitely price a cease in case you’re driving round Cornwall.
Learn extra: Finest castles in Cornwall to go to
10.) St. Agnes Head
The world round St Agnes Head and the heritage shoreline is likely one of the finest areas in Cornwall to probe for a ramble. The entire shoreline right here is gorgeous within the Cornish sunshine!
Now, there are fairly a couple of climbing routes across the heritage coast, however whichever you select, be certain to see the long-lasting Towanroath shaft ruins and Wheal Coates (Google Maps pin). Additionally, Chapel Porth Seashore is ideal for a picnic, particularly because it has straightforward parking (if it’s not too busy).
Learn extra: Finest seashores in Cornwall to go to
11.) Tintagel
North Cornwall’s wild coast is usually often known as a spot of legends, particularly King Arthur! It’s among the finest areas in Cornwall to discover a few of the area’s lengthy historical past, particularly round Tintagel.
Mentioned to be the birthplace of King Arthur, Tintagel Citadel is likely one of the space’s foremost points of interest and a spot you shouldn’t miss. The 13th-century magnificence is coupled with an epic setting together with glassy slopes, darkish cliffs, Rock Valley and Merlin’s Cave and is ideal for a wander across the ruins.


If you happen to’re within the village of Tintagel, you can even cease off on the Previous Submit Workplace, which can be from the 1300s! The constructing is so historic. Oh, and one other place you may try is the Norman Church of St Materiana, the place you may see a Roman milestone inside.
Learn extra: Finest seashores in Cornwall to go to
12.) Penzance




Penzance is a bigger city in Cornwall. Although comparatively small by worldwide requirements. Being the final cease on the Nice Western Prepare line, you can begin exploring Cornwall from right here in case you take the practice from London.
Now, Penzance is a good place to base your self. It’s also possible to discover lodges, retailers and eating places in Chapel Avenue earlier than going to The Trade Gallery, which is gorgeous for a little bit stroll. It’s also possible to head to the Jubilee Pool if you wish to soak within the water however usually are not able to swim within the sea. Although be warned, the water might be chilly! If you happen to don’t like overly chilly swimming pools, you would possibly wish to skip this one.
Ofcourse, the city of Penzance is nice in itself, however don’t overlook you may simply try Minack Theatre or St. Michael’s Mount once you’re within the space. Which, for my part, can’t be missed when visiting Cornwall.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do when in Penzance
13.) Land’s Finish


Sure, Land’s Finish is the precise finish of England! From right here, you’ll see the Celtic Sea to the west and the English Channel to the east. Actually a memorable spot and has change into one thing of a milestone to achieve for travellers in Cornwall.
Simply be certain to take your image on the Lands Finish Signal (Google Maps pin). Now, clearly, a lot of folks come right here for the picture alternative, however the wider area has fairly a couple of key spots to see.
It’s also possible to be part of a coastal path from right here to achieve Sennen Cove or Gwynver Seashore (Google Maps pin) are effectively price a go to. They’re completely unspoilt and also you don’t get the identical crowds at seashores like in Newquay, for example.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do when in Penzance
14.) Looe
On the south coast of Cornwall, between St Austell and Plymouth, Looe is a tiny little city that’s effectively price a cease for a couple of hours while driving across the area.
As soon as right here, be sure you spend a while on East Looe Seashore (Google Maps pin). Right here, you’ll have the ability to take a dip, and it’s an ideal place to spend a heat summer time’s day in Cornwall. Additionally, don’t overlook to pop into the Previous Guildhall Museum & Gaol. It’s a small place that’s open within the Summer time. It’s among the finest areas in Cornwall to have a completely enjoyable day.
For lunch, pop by The Sardine Manufacturing unit. Their Cornish crab linguine is so yummy.
Learn extra: Finest seashores in Cornwall to go to
15.) The Eden Challenge
One in all Cornwall’s most original points of interest is The Eden Challenge, which might’t be missed when visiting the area. Located about 5 kilometres away from St. Austell, the Eden Challenge consists of big domes which comprise a botanical backyard inside. We’ve at all times beloved visiting, and the 2 big adjoining houses are hexagonal biome-shaped paradises.
As soon as inside, you’ll have the ability to stroll round an entire rainforest biosphere that may be discovered on the bigger dome, whereas a Mediterranean environment might be skilled within the different dome. It’s so particular and it’s open all 12 months spherical.
On-site (and all year long) festivals, music performances and a number of other actions are additionally held in The Eden Challenge. Oh, and don’t overlook to journey the Skywire. It’s England’s longest zipline!
Learn extra: Finest seashores in Cornwall to go to