Travel

Top 7 recommendations for visiting Cornwall

Burma Rope Bridge at The Lost Gardens of Heligan

It was only a matter of time before I wrote a post on Cornwall – as most of my friends know, it’s my absolute favourite place to be. I’ve been visiting every summer for my whole life and now I’ve reached 23, it’s safe to say that the Cornish coast feels more like a second home to me than anything else.

Cornwall is one of those places when, whilst you’re there you feel a part from the rest of the world. It’s almost as if it exists within it’s own little bubble floating through the universe; time passes differently and the way of life is generally slower. Especially if the weather is on your side, it becomes easy to forget you’re still in the UK. A place packed with natural beauty; stunning coastlines, beautiful gardens and quaint fishing villages lined with cobbled streets. I think we are extremely lucky to have such a magical place here in England.  

If I’ve failed to convince you yet that Cornwall is worthy of your time, then read on to discover my top recommendations for visiting Poldark country…

Try your hand at water sports at one of Falmouth’s many beaches 

One of the main reasons I love Falmouth is because it’s water is perfect for enjoying a range of water activities such as stand- up paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkelling. It’s most popular beaches are located along the same coastline, so you can have fun exploring each of the beaches as you kayak/ paddle board along the water. My family and I love to go from Castle Beach, to Tunnel Beach, to Gyllyngvase and then to Swanpool. When you reach Swanpool, there are some epic caves and ‘secret’ beaches for you to explore too. If you wanted, you could even extend this trip to Maenporth (the next beach along) – but that’s quite some paddling!

Discover the surf scene at Perranporth Beach

If you’re wanting to learn to surf or body board, then Perranporth is the place to be. Next to Newquay, it’s probably one of the best beaches on the Cornish coast for catching great waves! Home to 3 glorious miles of sand, the UK’s only bar on the beach – The Watering Hole – and some of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen. There’s nothing better than ending a day of surfing, with a cider in hand, listening to some live music and watching the sun go down.

Indulge in some Cornish delicacies

I’m talking about Cream teas and Cornish pasties. There’s no doubt you’ll be stuck for choice, as you’ll be able to get your hands on these traditional Cornish foods pretty much anywhere in Cornwall – you simply must try them!

Visit The Minack Theatre

A stunning open- air theatre perched on the cliffs looking out across the Atlantic Ocean – not only will you discover amazing views here, but you’ll also have the chance to learn about the theatre’s fantastic history.

Travel to the end of the world at Land’s End

Coincidentally, Land’s End is just 4 miles away from The Minack Theatre (ideal if you wanted to make a day of it). It has sadly been commercialised, however the views are still completely free and are definitely worth seeing! On a clear day you should be able to see the Isles of Scilly.

Explore the magic of St. Michael’s Mount

For those who don’t know, St. Michael’s Mount is a beautifully unique place – more specifically, an island – reached by a causeway at low tide and by boat at high tide and is linked with the small town of Marazion. Whilst on the island you can wander it’s gardens or explore the historic castle.

Get lost in The Lost Gardens of Heligan

There are so many exotic gardens to visit in Cornwall (a few others being the famous Eden Project or Trelissick Gardens in Falmouth), but The Lost Gardens of Heligan has to be number 1 on my list. I’ve never been anywhere like it and I was surprised at what I found around each corner. I’d recommend visiting early in the morning or not in the height of summer season; it’s best if you can explore it when it’s a bit quieter, especially if you’re wanting to get some photographs!