visit cornwall 2023

• Collections
• Let with us
• POPULAR PAGES
• NEW: Croft House in Bude
• NEW: Bryher Garden near Mousehole
• NEW: Luxury Two Bedroom Beach Shack
• View all properties
• View all offers
• ABOUT FOREVER CORNWALL
• Meet the team
• Blog - Explore Cornwall
• INSPIRING BETTER HOLIDAYS
• Our mission
• Committed to giving
• Plastic free holidays in Cornwall
• Cornwall without the car
• Every holiday plants a tree
• Local experiences
• Terms and policies
• Good Guest policy
• Good Host policy
• All Terms & Policies

• Search All Cornwall
• North Cornwall
• Mawgan Porth
• Widemouth Bay
• Port Gaverne
• West Cornwall
• Mount's Bay
• South Cornwall
• The Helford
• Lizard Peninsula
• Fowey River

23 places to visit in Cornwall in 2023, as chosen by the Forever Cornwall team

When it comes to finding the best places to go in Cornwall, the team of experts at Forever Cornwall are hard to beat. Here we share our favourite spots to visit in 2023, from beautiful beaches and wonderful walks to brilliant places to eat and drink across Cornwall — from the sheltered coves around Port Isaac on the north coast to the southernmost tip on the wild Lizard Peninsula. 

Best beach At the mouth of the Hayle estuary, Lelant is a dog-friendly beach (also known as Porth Kidney) where the river runs into the sea. It’s a safe, fun place for a swim, especially at high tide. Hannah

Another cool beach experience is to find  Fishing Cove … Head to Portreath and pull into the carpark at the top of the hill about a mile outside Gwithian. Walk back along the coast path and look for little turning right (half hidden by bushes!) about 100m along. It’s a real scramble down but a wonderful moment of discovery…at its best in the morning. If you are lucky you’ll be the only one there for a wild swimming moment in crystal clear water (but don’t go in if the sea is rough!). Phil

Somewhere to eat With one of the most enviable spots on Cornwall’s north coast, The Hungry Horsebox serves up delicious post-surf fodder on Gwithian’s golden sands, all made from scratch using the best Cornish ingredients. Their dhal and tagines are to die for! Florence

Favourite walk The coastal walk from Gwithian carpark to Mutton Cove is an easy 40-min walk, with stunning views of the sea and Godrevy lighthouse along the way, and a large ‘harem’ of seals at the finishing point! Jenny

Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, walk from Gwithian to Hayle all the way along the beach. Head off as the tide is starting to go out then you have all day to do it. Get lunch in Hayle and walk back again. Maria

Discover our beautiful holiday cottages with sea views just off Gwithian’s golden sands

Mount’s Bay

Best beach Perranuthnoe Beach , a large sandy beach in Mount’s Bay on the south west coast , disappears at high tide. It’s close to the unspoilt village of Perranuthnoe, which has lots of places to eat, and you also get excellent views of St Michael’s Mount from the beach. Shannon

Somewhere to eat The Cabin Beach Cafe is an amazing little gem of a cafe in the village of Perranuthnoe, perched just above the sea. It’s open all year round and serves up lots of tasty food, from delicious brunches to cream teas. Shannon

Top tip! Go a bit further along from Prussia Cove and you will come to Kenneggy Cove , which is more hidden. It’s an easy 15-minute walk, or you can turn it into a half-hour circular from Prussia Cove, following the coast path along to Kenneggy Cove. You can either turn back or take the track into the woods at Kenneggy. This will eventually bring you out back onto the main road, which you can follow back to Prussia Cove car park, then Prussia Cove again. Shannon

Best beach My favourite quiet option is Castle Beach,  which just has a tiny (but cool) coffee shack . At low tide there are 100 rockpools, at mid tide your can swim out over the rocks for brilliant snorkelling, and at high tide the sea comes right up to the beach steps so you can get in and out of the water really easily. Perfect for early morning or late afternoon swims at any time of year, as long as the sea is calm! Phil

Somewhere to eat My favourite pub in the lively town of Falmouth has to be the Star & Garter , which has stood as a pub at the heart of the town since 1892 and has unspoilt views of Falmouth Harbour. Fish comes straight from the boat, meat from the farm, plus there are world-class whiskies and rums galore. Jenny

Favourite walk Walk from Flushing around Trefusis Point and on to Mylor. There are some nice pubs in Flushing, such as the Royal Standard, which has a pizza shack in the garden during the summer, and cafe in Mylor  right on the harbour. Castaways , also on the harbour, is good for ice creams! Hannah

Best beach Named after the hoards of coins that were found after an 17th-century shipwreck, Dollar Cove on the remote Lizard Peninsula isn’t on the tourist map and is generally quiet, even in the height of the summer. It’s pebble and shingle beach gives way to a beautiful stretch of sand which is only revealed at low tide. Florence

Somewhere to eat The Mussel Shoal, Porthleven — This kiosk on the quay serves fresh food and drinks. You can choose to eat at one of the tables on the quay or take away. There’s always a great atmosphere and is open all year round thanks to the outdoor heaters. Abby

Favourite walk The 22km-hike from Porthleven to Lizard Point is one for enthusiastic walkers (ideally have two cars and leave one at the end point). Or try the shorter (but just as beautiful) version from Mullian to Lizard Point. Abby

Best beach It’s a bit of a trek to the gorgeous National Trust beach of Lantic Bay but it’s well worth the effort! Its waters turn turquoise on a bright sunny day. There’s something special about being on a beach where so many visitors arrive by sea. Niki

Favourite walk I love the two mile walk from Lerryn to St Winnow . This tiny  (I mean  really tiny) hamlet halfway up the Fowey river was the film location for the original 1970’s Poldark and the 15th century grade I listed church is really worth stepping inside. Also find the amazing farm museum next door (a lifetime’s project of passion by John the local farmer) and the wonderful converted horsebox which sells streetfood … in 2022 it was tacos!! Back in Lerryn, the village stores have brilliant ice creams and cream teas and local produce… and the The Ship pub is pretty good, too. Phil

Top tip! Get on the water! The beautiful Fowey river area is magical. The river stretches six miles of tidal reach and best experienced afloat, so hire a self-drive boat in Fowey, rent kayaks or get SUP lessons from award-winning Encounter Cornwall  in nearby Golant. Phil

Somewhere to eat Fowey’s got eateries to suit all tastes…. Go for fine dining at the  Fitzroy  for a treat (booking essential) or its (baby) sister eatery  North Street Kitche n (you might need to queue but it will be worth it) …or for memorable character, charm, rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia and an epic cream tea try the Pinky Murphy Café . Phil

Port Isaac and Port Gaverne

Best beach The little beach at Port Gaverne is a gem — a bit of a ‘best kept secret’ because it’s not a major beach but all the better for it. You have Cornwall Rock Tors for kayaking, SUPing and coasteering, or you can just bbq and chill on the beach and enjoy open water swimming here — it’s ideal as it’s so sheltered. Phil

Top tip! Discover the film locations for Doc Martin , the popular TV series, by taking a walk around the village and down to the cove of Port Gaverne! Jenny

Newquay and Crantock

Somewhere to eat The Fox’s Revenge, Newquay — This cosy pub just outside Newquay serves up fresh food year round. I particularly love their fantastic Sunday roasts. Abby

Favourite walk Head to Porth Joke (or Polly Joke as it’s known locally). Find it by heading out towards the Bowgie Inn but turn down left through Treago campsite and to the little carpark at the bottom and enjoy exploring… Pentire Point West is covered in stunning poppies in early summer, or amble towards Holywell Bay and loose yourself in the sand dunes. Phil

Top tip! The Gannel Estuary is amazing at any time of the year… Find the Fern Pit Café for breakfast then get the foot ferry over the Gannel and explore Crantock, Polly Joke and beyond… Phil

Take a look at our holiday cottages on Cornwall’s north coast

• Lusty Glaze
• Mousehole and Newlyn
• Kestle Barton
• Things To Do
• Sustainability in Cornwall
• Food and Drink
• Dog-friendly Cornwall
• Christmas in Cornwall
• Active Cornwall
• Arts and Heritage
• Events and Festivals
• Family Friendly
• Film and TV
• Rainy Days in Cornwall
• Romantic Cornwall
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Data protection

• About the area
• Arts and culture
• Attractions & family fun
• Culinary experiences
• Trails and conservation areas
• Cornwall pizza
• Diners and brunch spots
• Dining done right
• Fast and fantastic
• Sweet treats
• Tastes of the world
• Visit the farm
• Breweries and wineries
• Cornwall Souvenirs
• Fashion finds
• Pamper yourself
• Power shopping
• Specialty shops
• Sports stores
• Vintage and thrift finds
• Cottages and cabins
• Long term accommodations

The 2023 Explore Cornwall Visitor Guide has arrived

The 2023 Explore Cornwall Visitor Guide is now available to visitors to assist in finding their way to some of Cornwall’s top attractions, accommodations, shops and restaurants.

The 72-page bilingual publication features information on seasonal activities, attractions, accommodations, restaurants, shopping and more. The content is complimented by advertisements from a variety of local businesses and organizations.

“The new guide offers a great overview of all the attractions and things to see and do in our great city,” said Kevin Lajoie, Tourism Officer with Cornwall Tourism. “We hope the guide will encourage even more people to visit the city and experience all that we have to offer.”

The guide’s cover builds off the success of last year’s colourful illustration by local artist Anthony Wallace, by adding a live element, a local family. The cover is play on the Mary Poppins style adventure taking real people into an animated world.

“We wanted to showcase Cornwall as a place with endless possibilities and I think the illustration really captures that,” said Amy Malyon, Development Officer with Cornwall Tourism. “The imaginary world is fun, bright and welcoming just like Cornwall and I hope visitors will be drawn to it to learn more about visiting the city.”

Get Your Copy!

A total of 40,000 copies of the guide will be distributed before the end of the year, via brochure racks throughout the city, region and beyond. Hard copies can be requested via the Cornwall Tourism website . The guide can also be picked up at the Cornwall Tourism office inside the Cornwall Civic Complex (open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm) or other public buildings like the Benson Centre, Aquatic Centre and City Hall.

The visitor guide will also be handed out at several tourism trade shows this spring.

“Cornwall hosts tens of thousands of visitors each year, including families, sporting groups and business conferences,” said Lajoie. “The visitor guide can often be found in the hands of visitors as they choose how to spend their free time in the city.”

About Cornwall Tourism

Cornwall Tourism is responsible for marketing Cornwall to attract new visitors. The office maintains a visitor information centre year-round at the Civic Complex. CornwallTourism.com is an online resource that provides current tourism news as well as a comprehensive calendar of events.

#ExploreCornwallON

Looking for other fun things to do in Cornwall? Check out the  Explore section  of our website for other fun-filled activities to keep you busy. Better yet, consider extending your stay with a night at one of our great  accommodations !

Got a question?

Got questions? Need recommendations? We’re here to help! Call or text us at 613-938-4748 or email us at [email protected] and we’ll be pleased to help you with any questions you may have!

Also make sure to check us out on  Facebook  and  Instagram  for updates and more great reasons to visit Cornwall!

What’s trending

Apples & Art Returns September 28-29

On September 28th and 29th, Cornwall and the SDG Counties will host their annual Apples & Art Studio Tour! The… View Article

Akwesasne Pow Wow returns on September 7-8 with a brand-new location

One of the most popular cultural celebrations in the region is set to return on the weekend of September 7th… View Article

Shorty Jenkins Classic returns to Cornwall!

Cornwall Ontario – The world’s top curlers are coming to Cornwall September 11th to the 15th for the 2024 AMJ Campbell… View Article

The OHL Returns to the Civic Complex

The Ontario Hockey League will return to the Cornwall Civic Complex on Saturday, September 21st for an exhibition game between… View Article

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

A 1 Week Cornwall Itinerary + Tips for your Cornwall Trip

Last updated: December 15, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 5 Comments

The county of Cornwall in the UK has beautiful beaches, lovely countryside, and some spectacular coastal vistas. So it should come as no surprise that a trip to Cornwall is a popular option for both holidaymakers in the UK and visitors from overseas. Today, I’m going to share a suggested detailed Cornwall itinerary with an overview of things to do in Cornwall in a week.

I actually grew up in Cornwall, and spent many of my formative years exploring the county. More recently, since our time living near Bath in the UK, Cornwall has been a nearby county for short breaks.

I think Cornwall has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway with some beach time, a more active holiday featuring surfing, hiking, or cycling, or want to explore some ancient historical sites, Cornwall has something for you. It’s also home to a massive range of accommodation options, from cosy remote cottages to seaside bed-and-breakfasts.

In this post, I’m going to share with you everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Cornwall.

First, I’m going to answer some questions about Cornwall that you might have. Then, I’ll share a suggestion of an itinerary for a week in Cornwall. This list of things to do covers a range of activities that should easily fill a week in Cornwall, but you can of course adjust it to your own timeframe and interests.

Finally, I’ll share some advice to help you get the most out of your Cornwall trip, including tips on where to stay in Cornwall.

We’d suggest also looking at our guide to things to do in Cornwall , which has a comprehensive list of ideas for what to get up to in this beautiful English county.

Let’s get started with this guide to things to do in Cornwall in a week!

Table of Contents:

Where is Cornwall?

Cornwall is a county in England, found in the very south west of the country. It borders Devon but is otherwise essentially a long peninsula, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean.

It’s around 230 miles from London, 150 miles Bristol, and 300 miles from Manchester. If you are coming here from London, you are looking at a 5 hour drive or train ride from the capital.

How To Get to Cornwall

Our recommended option for getting to Cornwall is to drive. This will give you the greatest flexibility in terms of sight seeing when you are there.

Cornwall is well connected by road with a mix of dual carriageways and motorway connecting the county to the rest of the country. Do be aware though that it is a popular destination and at certain times of year, particularly around school holidays, the roads can get quite congested.

From London it’s around a 5 hour drive, and from Bristol it’s around 3 hours. Of course, these drive times will vary depending on which part of the county you are visiting.

Cornwall is also well connected by rail, with a fast rail connection running from London to Penzance in just over 5 hours. You can also reach Cornwall via train from many other parts of the country. Check train timetables and book your train tickets online here .

You can also travel by coach to Cornwall from locations around the UK. This will generally take a bit longer than the train, but might be a better option depending on where you are travelling from. You can check coach prices and timetables across a number of operators here . We also recommend National Express and Megabus , both of which offer a wide range of routes across the country.

You can also fly to Cornwall from other parts of the UK as well as some overseas locations. The main airport in Cornwall is Cornwall Airport in Newquay. You can then either rent a car or use public transport to get around.

Another option for getting to Cornwall is to take a guided tour. These usually run for a number of days and will generally include your transport and tour guide, as well as accommodation. For example:

• This 5 day tour from London includes Devon and Cornwall as well as a number of other popular attractions in the southwest. We’ve taken multiple tours with Rabbie’s and always had a great time.
• This 7 day tour from London includes Cornwall as well as Devon, the Isle of Wight and many other attractions along England’s beautiful south coast

How to Get Around Cornwall

You have a number of options for getting around Cornwall, which are:

• Driving yourself
• Taking public transport, which includes bus and train services
• Taking a taxi
• Taking a tour

Driving yourself in Cornwall

The easiest way to get around Cornwall is to drive yourself. This will give you the most flexibility for sightseeing.

Most visitors to Cornwall who drive do so in a car or a motorhome. The latter is a popular option if you want to camp or have more flexibility over where you stay. If you want to hire a motorhome, we recommend checking prices on the Spaceships website and Motorhome Republic , which should give you a wide range of options.

If you do drive in Cornwall, there are a few things to bear in mind. First, many of the roads in Cornwall are single track country lanes, so if you aren’t used to driving on these you might want to read my guide to driving on single track roads .

Second, at certain times of year the roads do get busy with holiday traffic. If you are visiting at a busier time of year, prepare to spend a bit more time travelling between locations due to the possible traffic.

Finally, for visitors with cars, parking can often be an issue at busy times of year. Most attractions, including the picturesque villages, do have parking lots available which operate on a paid basis. Be sure to bring plenty of coins for these, as they don’t all accept card or mobile phone payments.

Note that many attractions in Cornwall are operated by the National Trust, including a number of beaches and coastal areas, and National Trust members get free parking at these car parks.

If there is an attraction you are visiting and it’s a busier time of year, we’d recommend giving yourself plenty of time to find a parking spot.

If you’d rather not drive, you still have a number of other options for getting around Cornwall.

Public Transport in Cornwall

The public transport network in Cornwall is quite comprehensive. A bus network covers the majority of the county. In addition, many of the pretty coastal towns like Looe, Falmouth and St. Ives are connected to the fast mainline rail line with scenic branch lines. You can see a map of these here .

You can certainly get around the majority of Cornwall by public transport, however it will definitely take longer than driving yourself. Depending on the type of trip you want to do, and the amount of sightseeing you have in mind, you might find it works for you or doesn’t. For timetables and journey planning, see the traveline south west website here .

There are also specific tourist buses in Cornwall, which can be an excellent option. For example, the Lands End Coaster operates from St. Ives to Lands End, stopping at a number of scenic points along the way, and connecting with the St. Ives and Penzance train and bus stations. This is an open top hop on hop off route, and is a great way to get around this part of Cornwall without a car.

Similar hop on hop off bus services in Cornwall include:

• the Atlantic Coaster , operating between St. Ives, Newquay and Padstow
• the Falmouth Coaster , which operates around Falmouth
• the Lizard , which runs from Helston around the Lizard peninsula

FirstBus also runs a series of buses under the DayTripper network name. These routes are specifically designed for visitors and link up attractions across Cornwall by bus, including locations like the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the Eden Project, Lanhydrock and many more.

Prices for the DayTripper service are very reasonable, and give you access to the whole network. You can find out more and book tickets for these services here .

Overall, it is certainly possible to tour the majority of Cornwall by public transport, and arrive in Cornwall by public transport. So don’t feel you need a car to have an amazing adventure in Cornwall!

Cycling in Cornwall

Another option if you are feeling fit is to cycle. You can either bring your own bike, or you can hire one. The county is popular with cyclists and there are a number of cycle routes, some of which you can see here .

Taxis in Cornwall

You can also take a taxi to get from place to place. There are a number of providers, and your accommodation provider will normally be able to advise on a good local operator. Just bear in mind that this can be a pricey option if you need to move around a lot.

Guided Tours of Cornwall

Another option as mentioned above is to join a guided tour from a larger city like London to visit Cornwall which will include a guide and all your transportation. These trips may just focus on Cornwall or may include a number of locations around the southwestern part of England. For instance this 5-day tour includes a visit to several locations in Cornwall and Devon plus a visit to Stonehenge.

Or you can arrive in Cornwall yourself but take tours – either individual day tours or a longer tour. For example, you can put together a custom tour like this if you have a specific destination in mind that you want to visit during your time in Cornwall. Or you can book a multi-day tour that will pick you up from the airport or your hotel like this one .

See more tour suggestions further on in this planning guide.

What is There to do in Cornwall?

There is a huge amount to see and do in Cornwall, certainly something for everyone.

The county is known for its spectacular coastline and gorgeous beaches, meaning it’s popular with beach goers, swimmers, and surfers, as well as people who enjoy walking, camping, and cycling.

There’s lots more beyond stunning beaches and coastline though. From cute fishing villages through to historical sites and attractions, delicious food, and interesting museums, Cornwall really does have something for everyone. See our list of things to do in Cornwall for more ideas!

How Long Should I Visit Cornwall For?

We’d recommend visiting Cornwall for at least three days, such as over a long weekend. However, a better amount of time would be around a week which would give you more time to see more of Cornwall’s highlights.

To give you an idea of what to do during that week, see our suggested itinerary below for a week in Cornwall. Of course, should you choose to stay for longer, there’s plenty to keep you occupied!

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cornwall?

The most popular time of year to visit Cornwall is over the summer months of July and August. This is when the weather is most likely to be warm, and also coincides with the majority of school summer holidays in the UK. With lovely beaches and swimming, Cornwall makes for a popular holiday destination for families.

If you’d prefer to avoid some of the crowds but still get some warmer weather, then the months of May, June and September would be our suggested time to visit. These months should be a little less busy, whilst still affording you plenty of good weather to enjoy the outdoors.

Of course, Cornwall can be visited at any time of year, it’s just a question of preparing for the weather and dressing appropriately. It’s also worth being aware that even if you visit in the summer months, rain and cooler weather is very much a possibility. So always be prepared, and perhaps plan for some indoor attractions for part of your visit just in case!

1 Week Cornwall Itinerary Ideas

First, I’m going to share a suggested itinerary for a week in Cornwall, and then I’ll go into more detail about the recommended featured attractions so you can make a plan that suits you.

• Day 1 – Tintagel Castle, and the fishing villages of Boscastle and/or Port Isaac
• Day 2 – Hiking on Bodmin Moor & visiting Charlestown Port and its museum
• Day 3 – Eden Project
• Day 4 – Coastal Hike or Beach Day
• Day 5 – Land’s End, Geevor Tin Mine, & Mousehole
• Day 6 – St. Michael’s Mount and Lizard Point
• Day 7 – Coastal Hike or Beach Day

Detailed Guide to Things to do in Cornwall in a Week

To help you plan your time in Cornwall, we’ve put together this list of suggested attractions that you could fill a week in Cornwall with. Of course, there is plenty more to see and do in Cornwall, so you could definitely spend more time in the county or fit more in to your week.

Alternatively, if you’d rather spend more time on the beach or relaxing, that’s fine too! You could just pick one or two of the attractions that interest you, and spend the rest of your holiday how you wish.

Here are our suggestions for some of the attractions you might consider visiting during your Cornwall trip. These are arranged in approximately the same order that they appear in our Cornwall itinerary above, although we have grouped some attractions together like the fishing villages or beaches as you might not want to visit all of these.

Tintagel Castle

If you like legends or castles (or both!), then you’re going to want to include a visit to Tintagel Castle on your trip to Cornwall.

Found on the northern coastline of Cornwall next to the village of Tintagel, this ruined medieval-era castle is closely linked to the legend of King Arthur. This connection was re-enforced and romanticised in the poetry of Alfred, Lord Tennyson, as well as a number of other Victorian-era writings.

Whether or not you believe the legend, Tintagel Castle is well worth a visit. It’s actually on a small island-like peninsula, which is connected to the mainland by an impressive bridge. There aren’t a lot of castle remains to be seen, but those that are there are interesting. A walk around the island is also very rewarding, and the views up and down the coast are spectacular.

Tintagel Castle is operated by English Heritage, and it’s free for members. Otherwise there’s a fee to visit. You can find out more about prices and opening hours on the official website here .

Tintagel Castle is close to Bodmin Moor as well as the fishing village of Boscastle (see the entry on fishing villages for more on this). There are also a number of beautiful hiking trails along the coast here.

Fishing Villages in Cornwall

Fishing has been central to the Cornish economy for centuries, and it is still very much a part of modern Cornish life.

Many of the villages in Cornwall are located where they are due to natural features that make for a good harbour. The village then spreads around this harbour which remains the focal point and heart of the community. The result is usually a very picturesque village clinging to the edge of the land, which has both historical and cultural significance.

We highly recommend visiting at least one of these cute fishing villages in Cornwall. They’re picturesque and pleasurable to walk around, and they also often have nice shops and restaurants where you can pick up a souvenir or locally produced meal.

There are of course many cute fishing villages dotted all around the Cornish coastline to choose from. Some of our favourites include:

• Polperro – found on the south-east Cornish coast, Polperro is a beautiful little fishing village. The coastal walk to Looe via Talland Bay is also excellent.
• Charlestown – on the south coast of Cornwall near the town of St. Austell, Charlestown is a beautiful 18th century fishing village and commercial port used to export china clay. The harbour is beautiful and is usually home to a number of tall ships, and there’s a fascinating museum here that tells the story of shipwrecks around the world. It’s also been a filming location for a number of movies and TV shows, including Poldark .
• Mousehole – found on the south west Cornish coast near the town of Penzance, Mousehole is a really gorgeous fishing village with a range of local shops and a pretty pale sand beach. It’s been an important fishing location from at least the 14th century.
• Port Isaac – one of the most popular fishing village to visit in Cornwall, partly due to it featuring in the Doc Martin TV series as the village of Portwenn. Found on the northern coast of Cornwall, this has a beautiful natural harbour and lovely coastal views, but expect it to be busy.
• Boscastle – the tiny village of Boscastle on the northern Cornish coast is famed for its stunning natural harbour which is formed by a narrow inlet. Much of the village and surrounding lands are owned by the National Trust , who have an informative visitor centre on site.

Of course, there are many more picturesque fishing villages to discover in Cornwall, and part of the fun of a trip here is to discover some of these for yourself.

Most of these fishing villages are near some of the other attractions in our list, so we’d recommend combining a visit to one of these fishing villages with another stop or two.

For example, Mousehole is near Land’s End and Geevor Tin Mine, whilst Boscastle and Port Isaac are quite close to both Tintagel and Bodmin Moor.

Bodmin Moor

One of my favourite memories from my time growing up in Cornwall were the various walks we took on Bodmin Moor. This is a large expanse of granite moorland which cover 80 square miles of the county, and it’s a wonderful place to hike and enjoy nature.

There are a number of features which make Bodmin Moor an interesting place to visit. First, being a granite moorland means that it is home to a number of “tors”. These are basically large freestanding granitic outcrops which jut out of the ground. The highest of these is Brown Willy, which is the highest point in Cornwall at 1,368ft.

As well as hiking and the fun photography opportunities that the rock outcrops present, another reason we enjoy Bodmin Moor is to see the ponies that roam freely. There are around 1,000 of these present on the moor, and with their thick fur and shaggy manes they are very pretty.

Overall, spending half a day or more on Bodmin Moor is a day well spent in our opinion. There are plenty of hikes to choose from, and the views from the tops of the tors across the county are spectacular. It’s also a great place for star gazing, and I in fact watched the 2020 comet from the top of one of the peaks here.

Eden Project

One of Cornwall’s most well-known visitor attractions is the Eden Project. The site consists of two massive enclosures which are formed from a series of overlapping geodesic domes.

The largest of the two enclosures is the tropical biome. This covers an area of almost four acres, and is home to what is essentially an indoor rainforest. It’s the largest indoor rainforest in the world, and within you’ll find a huge range of tropical plants, from coffee and bamboo to banana and rubber. As you would imagine, this biome is kept at a warm and humid temperature year round.

The Mediterranean biome is smaller, at 1.6 acres, and inside you’ll find a range of temperature climate plants such as olives.

As well as the two massive covered biomes, the Eden project is also home to a large outdoor botanical garden. This has Europe’s second largest redwood forest, as well as a great many other plant species.  There are also a number of art installations on site.

All in all, there is lots to see and do at the Eden Project, and you could easily spend a half day or longer on site. You can find out more about opening hours and admissions fees at the official website here .

Take a Hike

An activity we always enjoy when we travel is taking a walk or a hike. Cornwall is a wonderful place for everything from a gentle stroll to a multi-day hike. The coastal paths in particular are fantastic, offering endless vistas and secluded coves and beaches to explore.

Good options include the hike from Portreath to Hayle, which provides the opportunity to see seals around Godrevy lighthouse, or the shorter coastal hike from Looe to Polperro.

We also love the stretch of coastal path from the Botallack mine ruins through to Pendeen Lighthouse, which has a number of interesting old mine buildings as well as lovely coastal views and bird viewing opportunities.

There are also inland walks of course, including walks across Bodmin Moor as I mentioned earlier in this guide. One popular walking / cycling trail near Bodmin Moor is the Camel Trail which follows the Camel river along a former railway line.

If you’re looking for some walking inspiration, this list of walks is a great starting point.

Land’s End

In our opinion, no visit to Cornwall is complete without a visit to Land’s End, the most westerly point in both Cornwall and England. There is just something about standing on the beautiful coastline here, and getting that “edge of the world” feeling.

Land’s End is a busy tourist attraction. That’s not anything new though – tourists have been coming here to see the western edge of England for at least 300 years! So as long as you are up for some crowds, we think you should follow in their footsteps.

There are a few things to do at Land’s End. First, there’s the famous signpost which you can pay to have your photo taken at. Next, there’s a little museum which covers the history of the “End to end” route, which is basically the journey from Land’s End in England to John O’Groats in Cornwall. This is a route that has been covered thousands of times over the years via a wide range of transportation methods.

If you are visiting with family, there are some fun attractions geared to kids and families. These include Arthur’s Quest , a 4D film experience , and a 200 year old farm where you can interact with a number of animals.

There are also shops, places to buy snacks and food and of course, magnificent coastal views to enjoy. Land’s End itself is free to visit, but parking and most attractions do have a fee. Find out more on the official website here .

Land’s End is close to Mousehole, a popular fishing village, as well as Sennen Cove, a stunning beach. It’s also close to the next attraction on our list, and combining these two activities into one day out would make for a fun filled day!

Mining History

As well as fishing, another natural resource has been exploited in Cornwall for thousands of years, and that is tin. Tin is a metal which has been mined in Cornwall since at least 2150BC, with the last tin mine closing in the county in 1998.

The heyday of Cornish mining was the 19th century, with tin and copper being the primary metals mined. At the time, this was one of the richest mining locations in the world, and at it’s peak over 600 steam engines were powering over 2,000 mines across Cornwall.

Tens of thousands of men were employed in the Cornish mines, with many of these men later to emigrate overseas when the Cornish mining industry began to decline.

Today, the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognises both the sites themselves, as well as the expertise that was exported worldwide.

To understand some of the history and heritage of mining, we would recommend visiting one of the preserved mines in Cornwall.

There are a number of these that you can visit, with our recommended mine being the Geevor Tin Mine . Found in the St. Just mining district around 30 minutes drive from Land’s End and Penzance, a mine has operated here since the late 18th century. The Geevor Tin Mine itself was operational from 1911 until 1990.

It’s operated today as a museum and heritage centre, and is the largest preserved tin mining site in the UK. There’s an excellent museum on site, and you can walk through many of the buildings to learn about mining and life as a miner. In addition, you can walk through “Wheat Mexico”, an 18th century underground mine.

There’s a fee to visit Geevor Tin Mine, and you can read more about opening hours and prices on the official website here .

Go to the Beach

A huge draw for visitors to Cornwall, especially those with children, are the spectacular beaches on offer all around the coast. Cornwall has over 250 miles of coastline, and over 300 beaches to choose from! So wherever you are in the county, you’re likely to be quite close to a gorgeous beach.

Many of these beaches feature gorgeous golden sands and turquoise waters, and many also offer safe swimming (although the water isn’t going to be quite as tropical a temperature as they look!).

In addition, many of the beaches in Cornwall, particularly those on the north side of the county, offer excellent surfing conditions. Cornwall is a very popular surfing destination in the UK, and it’s a good place to learn to surf as well.

If you’re looking for a beach in Cornwall, this site has a good list where you can filter by things like whether or not the beach has a lifeguard or toilets nearby.

St. Michael’s Mount

Just off the southern coast of Cornwall near the town of Marazion is the island known as St Michael’s Mount . This island is accessible at low tide across a granitic causeway, and is home to a medieval church and a castle, as well as a community of people.

You might be thinking this sounds somewhat familiar. There is an island just off the French coast called Mont St. Michel , which is also home to a famous abbey and a church. This is not a coincidence, as the same order of Benedictine monks were responsible for developing both islands into places of worship.

Today, St. Michael’s Mount is managed by the National Trust, and is open for visitors. At low tide you can walk across the causeway to the island, which takes around 15 minutes, or you can take a boat. On the island you can explore the garden, castle and church.

Entry to St. Michael’s Mount is free to National Trust members, otherwise there’s a fee for visiting. You can read more on the official site here . We’d recommend allocating at least three hours to your visit.

Lizard Point

Continuing south from St. Michael’s Mount will bring you on to the Lizard Peninsula and the Lizard Heritage Coast area. There are many beautiful beaches and coves in this area, such as Poldhu beach, as well as some excellent coastal walks.

One popular attraction on the Lizard Peninsula is the Lizard Point. This is the most southern point of mainland Britain and England, and is a popular tourist attraction. It’s free to visit and is operated by the National Trust.

Another interesting location that is worth a visit on the Lizard Peninsula are the Marconi sites. These include the Marconi Centre and the Lizard Wireless Station at Bass Point. It was from here that Marconi undertook wireless experiments, and from where he broadcast the first transatlantic radio message.

The Marconi Centre is open for visitors and is free, with donations appreciated.

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Cornwall has a huge range of holiday accommodation options, from hotels and B&B’s to self catering cottages to glamping and camping sites. You can pick a cute seaside village to stay in, or somewhere more central.

In our experience, properties closer to the sea or a good beach tend to be more expensive, whilst those inland can offer better value for money. If you visit during the busier summer months, expect to pay more and plan to book well in advance as properties can go fast. Cornwall can be a pricey destination as it is very popular.

When it comes to location, Cornwall is not huge, but it can take a couple of hours to drive from one end to the other. So you will have to decide if you prefer to pick a location to base yourself from for the duration of your holiday, or if you want to move around a bit if you are there for a longer period of time.

If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing around the county, you might want to split your time between two base locations so you can explore different parts of Cornwall from different locations and reduce driving time.

There are pros and cons to each approach. If you pick a single central location you won’t have to pack up and relocate part way through your trip and it can save you money as longer stays can be more cost effective than shorter stays.

We enjoy staying in the area around Bodmin as this puts us close to many attractions, but if you want to be closer to beaches you’d probably prefer a more coastal location.

It is good to think about if you want to be able to walk to a beach or to restaurants, or if you prefer to be in a more rural spot and perhaps want to cook your own meals. This will help you narrow down your lodging time and location preferences.

As I mentioned, there are a number of different accommodation options. I’ll cover some recommendations for each category below.

Hotels & B&Bs in Cornwall

Here are some well-reviewed hotels and B&Bs across a variety of budget located in different parts of the county that we think could work for our itinerary:

• St. Christopher’s Inn – Newquay is a popular haven for surfers, and this hostel is well located by Towan Beach. It also has it’s own surf school if you’re looking to learn. Both private and shared rooms are available, most with en-suite, and there’s a bar and restaurant.
• The Pityme Inn – found in the town of Wadebridge under two miles from Polzeath beach, this well-reviewed 3* Inn offer en-suite accommodation with an on-site restaurant and bar.
• Clifftop Ensuite Double B&B -situated in the heart of Newquay right on the beach front, this well reviewed B&B offers good value simple accommodation with everything you need on your doorstep
• The Jamaica Inn – this inn on Bodmin Moor, which dates from 1750, was made famous by a Daphne du Maurier novel of the same name. A popular attraction in its own right, the property features en-suite rooms as well as a bar, restaurant and museum. A great option on Bodmin Moor. We’ve stayed here and enjoyed it.
• The Plume of Feathers – found in the central village of Mitchell, this well rated 16th century coaching inn is well situated for exploring most attractions in Cornwall. Rooms are en-suite and there’s an on-site bar and pub
• Primrose House St. Ives – just metres from Portminster Beach in St. Ives this highly rated guesthouse in an Edwardian Villa offers boutique en-suite rooms, some with sea views. A fantastic location and a lovely property
• The Penellen Bed and Breakfast – this four star beach front B&B in Hayle offers spectacular views from it’s en-suite rooms.
• The Wellington Hotel – this 3* hotel is just 10 minutes walk from the fishing village of Boscastle and is well located for exploring some of north Cornwall’s attractions. Lovely en-suite rooms get great reviews and there’s an award-winning restaurant on site as well as a bar.
• Crown House & Lodges B&B – a well reviewed 3* B&B in the south west of Cornwall near the town of Helston. Convenient for The Flambard Experience, the property has en-suite facilities and offers a shared lounge and kitchen for guests.
• The Lewinnick Lodge – set on a stunning clifftop location just minutes drive from Newquay, this boutique hotel offers incredible views and luxurious accommodation.

As you can see, there are plenty of options to consider, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. For many more options, click here to see all the listings for Cornwall on booking.com.

Self-Catering & Holiday Cottages in Cornwall

There are of course a lot of options when it comes to accommodation in Cornwall. Our preference for a week long trip like this would be to book a self-catering cottage. Sites we’d suggest you try out include:

• Snaptrip’s Cornwall Listings . Snaptrip searches many of the holiday cottage booking providers in the UK to get you the best price
• Sykes Holiday Cottages Cornwall listings – we’ve used Sykes on a stay in Cornwall before and found a lovely rural property through them on our last visit
• The Plum Guide Cornwall properties – the Plum Guide focuses on really high quality properties, and whilst they don’t have the breadth of choice, they certainly have some fantastic options on their books
• Booking.com Cornwall listings – our favourite for booking hotels when we travel, booking.com also have a wide range of holiday cottages available

If you are looking for a holiday cottage and need more options to choose from, see our guide to the best holiday cottage booking websites in the UK for more choices.

Glamping Sites and Campsites in Cornwall

Cornwall is of course a very popular destination for camping, with a wide range of campsites available. These range from basic sites with limited facilities where you need to bring all your own accessories, through to higher end Glamping sites where you can hire cabins or yurts.

There are of course many options to choose from, here are some well-rated suggestions.

• Fir Hill Glamping Yurts – just near Newquay, this campsite offers lovely yurts which feature real beds and kitchenette, as well as access to shared facilities including bathrooms, BBQ facilities and lounge.
• Looe Yurts – these are found just near the fishing town of Looe. A small number of comfortable yurts are on offer with real beds and log burners. Shared facilities include bathrooms and a kitchens.
• Tehidy Holiday Park Wigwam Camping Cabins – if you love the idea of camping but prefer a real bed, en-suite facilities and luxuries like a TV, then check out these beautiful and highly rated camping pods in the south west of Cornwall.

Of course there are hundreds more options to choose from. Useful resources for finding campsites in Cornwall include the Cool Camping website and the UKCampsite website .

Tours in Cornwall

If you have a specific interest in a particular subject or attraction, you might want to book a tour that includes this attraction. A tour can be a great way to get insights you might not otherwise be able to get, plus they are usually a lot of fun.

In addition, depending on where you are travelling from and how you plan on getting around, you might find that booking a tour is a great way to visit a number of attractions without having to drive yourself.

There are a number of tours in Cornwall, which range from just a few hours to multi-day tours. Here are some to consider when you are planning your Cornwall trip.

Day Tours in Cornwall

• This 1 hour hot air balloon flight will give you a unique perspective as you float over Cornwall and it’s sure to be an experience you won’t forget!
• Poldark lovers will enjoy this private full day tour of many of the filming locations from the show. Tours can also be totally customised to your preference.
• If you’d like to put together a totally custom private tour, this tour will let you do just that. A great option for a day out with a tour guide that’ll save you from driving or having to plan public transport
• This full day private tour covers both the Doc Martin filming locations and Tintagel Castle, as well as a number of other scenic locations in Cornwall.
• This full day private tour visits many of the attractions on and around Bodmin Moor, with a focus on some of the Neolithic sites in the area as well as a number of other scenic locations

Multi-Day Tours of Cornwall

• If you’d like a longer tour of Cornwall which also includes your accommodation, check out this 3 day private tour which can be fully customised to your interests. Departures from locations around Cornwall.
• This 5 day small group tour from London includes Devon and Cornwall as well as a number of other popular attractions in the southwest. We’ve taken multiple tours with Rabbie’s and always had a great time.
• This 7 day small group tour from London includes Cornwall as well as Devon, the Isle of Wight and many other attractions along England’s beautiful south coast

Further Reading

Well that’s it for our Cornwall guide! We hope you find it useful in helping you plan a trip to Cornwall, and gives you some ideas for what to do.

Before you head off, we did want to share some other content that you may also find useful or inspirational for future trips.

• We have a comprehensive guide to things to do in Cornwall , to give you lots of ideas for your trip
• For holiday accommodation in the UK, check out our favourite websites for booking holiday homes in the UK and Ireland
• If you’d like budgeting advice, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the UK
• We have a guides to things to do in many cities around the UK, including things to do in Bristol , things to do in Portsmouth and things to do in Stratford upon Avon
• We have tips for driving in the UK , if that’s a new experience for you
• Looking for more UK inspiration? Check out our 1 week UK itinerary , 2 week UK itinerary , and 7 day North Coast 500 itinerary for some ideas!
• Getting online when travelling can be daunting – check out our guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• If you’re interested in getting better photos when you travel, take a look at my  online photography course , where I’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting better photos – whatever camera you have!
• If you want a physical (or digital!) book to accompany your travels, then Amazon do a good line in  UK Travel Guides . We can recommend the Lonely Planet Guide to Devon & Cornwall , as well as the DK Eyewitness Guide to England’s South Coast

And with that, we come to the end of our guide to visiting Cornwall for around a week! As always, we’re happy to hear your comments and answer any questions you might have. Just pop them in the comments section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!

Enjoyed this post? Why not share it!

There are 5 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

30th October 2022 at 11:56 am

Hi we r thinking of going next summer but stay in one place for 3 days and go out travel places here and there and go to next place same again travel here and there we want to see coast from start to finish and flying in to Bristol where would u recommend us to stay on our first trip and second trip ? Start to finish then back to Bristol airport

Laurence Norah says

31st October 2022 at 11:04 am

So your plan is similar to how we spent a recent trip to Cornwall. We’d recommend staying in the west of the county for 3 nights and the east for the other 3 nights. So for example, around Bodmin puts you in a good location for many of the sights of east Cornwall, and around St. Ives will let you explore the west. Of course, there are more options but that should give you some areas to look in.

Have a great time in Cornwall!

31st October 2022 at 4:46 pm

Thanks for this reply much appreciated it x

Robert says

10th June 2021 at 4:26 pm

Hi we are heading to Lizard Point next week and staying at Little Trehvas Campsite for 5 nights I was reading your beautiful trip guide and noticed you said single track roads are they in or around this particular area we will be visiting? Thanks

10th June 2021 at 4:41 pm

So the road out to the campsite you are staying at (the A3083) is a normal dual lane road. However, many of the roads on the Lizard are single track, such as the one that continues on past your campsite down to Cadgwith Cove, and the one down to Kynance Cove. So yes, they are definitely around that area.

In addition, as soon as you get off the main “A” roads in Cornwall you are very likely to come across single track roads. For that reason you need to be very careful when following a Satnav or using Google Maps, as these will often take you on what they think is the fastest route, even if it involves multiple single track roads. Sticking to signposts can often yield better results if you want to avoid the single track roads.

Let me know if I can be of further assistance, and have a lovely trip to Cornwall!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let me know when there's a reply to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips. This also makes you eligible to enter our monthly giveaways!

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store your data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

Holidays in Cornwall 2023

It’s never too early to think about planning your next holiday and with winter well and truly on its way, we're all in need of a little inspiration! If you're looking for a holiday destination that offers a bit of everything, then Cornwall should be right at the top of your list. 

Voted as the UK’s favourite holiday destination by the British Travel Awards for four years running, this beautiful county full of breathtaking coastline, achingly beautiful scenery, and a huge dollop of myth and legend really does tick all the boxes.

So, what is Cornwall?

Ah...what a question! In a nutshell, Cornwall is miles of sweeping bays with blankets of sandy beaches, cool azure waters and excellent surf. 

It is secret hidden coves under rugged and romantic clifftops; it is acres of impossibly romantic brooding moorland and it is a seemingly never-ending coastal path to discover. 

It is pretty fishing villages with working harbours and it is magical open-air theatres studded into cliffs and romantic castle-topped islands that you can only walk to at low tide. 

It is historic houses, glorious gardens and unspoilt National Trust villages.

It is famous for botanical attractions, animal-filled wildlife parks and fantastic family days out. 

It is friendly, welcoming and most importantly, it is waiting for you and your favourite people to make it your next holiday escape.

So how do we choose a destination for you that encompasses everything that is Cornwall? There are so many excellent places to choose from, we'd be cheating you if we picked just a few. With that in mind, rather than looking at specific locations, we thought we'd look at the reasons why you might be visiting, and take it from there. 

So read on and find out which part of Cornwall has everything that you are looking for on your 2023 getaway.

If you’re all about the surfing and excellent beaches:

Top 3 places to stay:

• North Cornwall - Newquay cottages
• West Cornwall - St Ives cottages
• South Cornwall - Whitsand Bay cottages

When you put the two words Cornwall and beaches together, a few places spring to mind. 

Fistral in Newquay - probably the best-known surfing beach in the land, Watergate Bay in the same, Porthleven and Praa Sands near Helston, Porthmeor in St Ives, Sennen Cove near Land's End, Gwithian near Hayle and Perranporth in… well, Perranporth - all top surfing spots. 

The favourites tend to be in North Cornwall due to the huge waves that come crashing in from the Atlantic but you do get a few good ones in West Cornwall and the odd place in the south if you don't mind the drive.

Don't panic if you haven't got your surfing under control though - beginners and those honing their craft have a huge selection of surf schools to choose from if they need a bit of instruction, and you can hire boards and wetsuits if you haven't got your own. 

The schools offer classes for other types of water sports too, for both adults and children. If that all sounds like too much hard work on your well-earned holiday, sit back instead on the sun-kissed sands and lazily cast an eye over the colourful boards dipping in and out of view in the distance. 

The weary vacationer looking to avoid the more popular beaches will be able to find a sprinkling of secluded beaches away from the crowds without too much effort. 

There are over 150 beaches along more than 300 miles of coastline so there is sure to be one for you, whether you are all about activity holidays or just want to lie back on the warm sands and think of Cornwall. 

Discover the secret coves along the South West Coast Path such as Housel Bay, Porthbeor, Diggary's Island Sand and Fox Cove; the best way to access them is with a walk along the coastal path - the scenery is simply breathtaking.

Five top beachy things to do in Cornwall in 2023:

• Watch the pros at the Boardmasters Festiva l in Newquay in August – live music and surfing right on the most popular beaches.
• Take the cliff-top path walk to the hidden Fox Cove - it's a long one and the descent is tricky but it's worth it ten times over.
• Discover the white sands and beautiful dark red and green serpentine rock at Kynance Cove near Mount's Bay.
• Grab a blanket and hot chocolate and gaze up at the starry skies over the majestic sea stacks at Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps.

If you’re all about the seafood and pretty fishing villages:

• North Cornwall - Rock cottages
• West Cornwall - Mousehole cottages
• South Cornwall - Polruan cottages

It’s not that they're in competition or anything, but we're having a seriously hard time choosing between the popular foodie destinations of the north, west and south. 

The north is blessed with smart little harbours such as Padstow , Rock and Port Isaac which offer hungry holidaymakers cool beachside cafés and famous seafood restaurants with a sea view. 

In the west, St Ives is a real foodie's paradise, followed swiftly by the sweet harbours of Mousehole and Porthleven , the historic Penzance and the vibrant harbour town of Falmouth with its rich maritime heritage and buzzy nightlife.

Moving along the coast up to South Cornwall , a more sedate pace of life is on offer along the Roseland and Polperro Heritage Coasts, where you'll find delightful little fishing villages and harbours nestled amongst superb beaches and gorgeous countryside. 

Head for the charming fishing ports of Polruan , Fowey and Looe which are not only blessed with excellent seafood restaurants, they are also wonderful places to explore if you are looking for a traditional touch of Cornish living.

Five top maritime things to do in Cornwall in 2023:

• Grab some top nosh at Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant in Padstow - fabulous food and impeccable service, this one is always a top choice.
• Treat yourself to a fruity ice cream or a mouthwatering Cornish cream tea under the cries of the seagulls at Moomaids of Zennor in St Ive s .
• Take a stroll around Charlestown  to see the  majestic tall ships used in Poldark , stopping afterwards at one of the village pubs for some hearty Cornish fare.
• Visit the famous Restaurant Nathan Outlaw in Port Isaac and discover just why it has been awarded a prestigious Michelin star .
• Christmas visitors should head along to Mousehole to see the famous Christmas lights that glitter and sparkle across the harbour every December.

If you’re all about the Cornish history and seeing the sights:

• North Cornwall - Tintagel cottages
• West Cornwall - Marazion cottages
• South Cornwall - Lostwithiel cottages

If the sights are what bring you to this part of the country, then a good place to start is the North Cornwall coast. 

Make your first stop the picturesque village and harbour of Boscastle , managed by the National Trust and steeped in history. 

Head further south where you can immerse yourself in the myth and legend of the dramatic Tintagel Castle , set high on Cornwall's rugged cliffs. Linked with the legend of King Arthur, you won't have a hard time getting little ones interested either as they discover the island garden and climb the step-free path to the medieval gateway to the castle.

Down towards the St Agnes Heritage Coast, explore the tin mine of Wheal Coates , perched atop heather-filled cliffs high above the Atlantic Ocean. The mining and maritime heritage in this area is fascinating - to see more, carry on to Penzance and Marazion, where the southern gems of St Michael's Mount and the Minack Theatre await.

For a change of scenery, head inland to Bodmin, where you'll not only find the wild granite moorland of Bodmin Moor , over 80 square miles in size and rich in ancient history, but you'll also be able to experience life as an 18th-century prisoner at Bodmin Jail , one of Cornwall's top historical sites. 

Walk through five levels of cells, dine in the Governor's Hall and, if you dare, take a ghost walk or watch a classic movie at the Scary Cinema - taking a tour around the depths of the jail beforehand with the jail's resident medium. 

If that's too much spook for you, stay on the moor and visit Jamaica Inn , Cornwall's most renowned smuggler's inn, made famous by the author Daphne du Maurier in her novel of the same name.

On the way up to Bodmin, you'll want to check out Lostwithiel, a treasure trove of historical treats. 

Hunt for antiques as you walk around the streets of this ancient stannary town or pay a visit to the circular 13th-century ruins of Restormel Castle a mile to the north. 

There is also an abundance of colour to be appreciated at Landhydrock House and Gardens , just a few miles drive away; head back to the town afterwards for a traditional Cornish cream tea.

Five top historical things to do in Cornwall in 2023:

• Discover King Arthur's Cornish hideaway in Tintagel at the legendary Tintagel Castle , set high up on the rugged cliffs of northern Cornwall.
• Take a romantic stroll across the causeway to visit the magical castle perched atop the island of St Michael's Mount, near Marazion .
• Don your glad rags for a night at the opera at the Minack, an impressive open-air theatre studded into the side of the cliffs, overlooking the Atlantic ocean.
• Get your walking boots on and discover the Wheal Coates Tin Mining Walk - take a picnic and explore the coast path with its spectacular sea views.
• Get your spook on at the After Dark experience at Bodmin Jail - enjoy a three-course meal, explore the jail at night and get to work behind the bars until you are allowed to leave at 5am! 

If you’re all about the fabulous walking and breathtaking scenery:

• North Cornwall - Bude cottages  
• West Cornwall - Perranporth cottages
• South Cornwall - Polperro cottages

This is a difficult one, we’re not going to lie. Trying to find the best place for walking in Cornwall is like trying to find the best pasty – great fun searching, but without any clear winner. 

All of this coastline is simply breathtaking, with the South West Coast Path snaking around the whole county, starting at the Hartland Cornwall Heritage Coast and leading down to the popular resort of Bude where rugged cliffs dotted with valleys and tumbling waterfalls guide you along your way down the coast towards the dramatic headland of Pentire Point.

Moving further south past the Trevose Head Heritage Coast, home to Padstow and its famous Rick Stein seafood restaurants , you will take in the delightful historic coast and the Cornish mining site of St Agnes, whose village of the same name has World Heritage Status - carrying on down to Godrevy until you reach the Penwith Heritage Coast and Land's End . 

Leaving the most south-westerly point in the country, you will then be treated to some glorious walking around the large sweeping Mount's Bay, home to the iconic St Michael's Mount, continuing along to the unique landscape of the Lizard Heritage Coast AONB, passing some fine historic mining sites and Lizard Point on the way.

Carrying on around the coast, the totally unspoilt Roseland Peninsula Heritage Coast AONB, with its beautiful coastal scenery offers some stiff competition to the north in the looks department. 

As does the Polperro Heritage Coast, with its historic fishing and smuggling village of the same name set within a picturesque cove and pretty harbours of Fowey and Polruan .

 The coastal path finally hands over the baton to South Devon at the Rame Head Heritage Coast. We haven't even touched on the country walking possibilities inland, the star of the show being, of course, the brooding Bodmin Moor with its iconic inn, jail and famous beast to hunt out.

Five top scenic things to do in Cornwall in 2023:

• Take a boat trip out to the remote Lundy Island , a 400 ft granite outcrop off the North Cornwall coast with enchanting scenery and wildlife, including seals and puffins.
• Visit Land's End and its famous landmark attraction where you can take photos against the iconic signpost and have a cream tea at the first and the last stop in the land.
• Hunt out the beast of Bodmin Moor as you hike across 200 square km of wilderness and ancient historical monuments.
• Walk from Porthcurno to Land's End, starting off with a dip in the crystal-clear blue sea then heading up to the Minack Theatre and finishing at the famous landmark attraction. 
• Cool off in the shallow waters of a hidden cove and take time to just be . Try Nanjizal, Portheras, Rinsey or the Pentire Steps Beach.

If you’re all about the kids and having lots of fun:

• West Cornwall - Land's End cottages
• South Cornwall - Charlestown cottages

We’ve probably already given a hundred good reasons why Cornwall is an excellent choice for a family holiday in the sections above. 

All generations love a beach, most love sunbathing and water sports (we count swimming as a sport!), everybody loves eating, while those with a dog in tow will no doubt be racing to get Fido's lead on to discover all of the walkie possibilities that this part of the country has to offer.

 As most parents will know, historical sights are more difficult – if it’s fun, kids will do it, but if it’s purely historical (and therefore strictly for adults), you'll only be able to persuade them if they are promised their fair share of fun activities too.

Take tiny tots to rural retreats such as Dairyland Farm World where they can get involved in feeding some of the animals, and learning about them as they go. 

Teach older children about conservation and endangered species at wildlife parks and sanctuaries such as Porfell Wildlife Park in Liskeard, Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary in Looe and the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek. 

For the thrill-seekers in the family, Camel Creek Adventure Park in Wadebridge and Flambards Theme Park on the Lizard both pack a good punch with their fab rides.

Pirate lovin' kids can embark on a swashbucklin' voyage through Cornwall's pirating past at Pirate's Quest in Newquay, while it wouldn't be a trip to Cornwall without a day out at the infamous Eden Project or the delightful Lost Gardens of Heligan , both near St Austell on the south coast. 

It goes without saying that a trip to Land's End will be a popular choice - incorporating history, walking, eating, playing and shopping - you can't lose!

Five top fun things to do in Cornwall in 2023:

• Pack up the kids and take them to the largest indoor rainforest in the world - the iconic Eden Project, where they can explore two huge biomes full of exotic sub-tropical plants.
• All ages will love the glitzy attractions of Flambards Theme Park with its sky-high thrill rides , amusements and undercover soft play area. 
• Make some new friends at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek and find out how they rehabilitate and set free injured seal pups.
• Take mini-me's over to Dairyland Farm World to experience a tractor ride, as well as getting up close to a selection of fluffy and non-fluffy farm animals.
• Explore the tanks of the  Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay and then head down for a picnic on the wide expanse of sands below, to see if you can spot the real thing!

Stay in Cornwall

Inspired by all of these excellent places to holiday in Cornwall? 

Have a peek at our collection of cottages in Cornwall today and get one of them organised as a base for your holiday in Cornwall in 2023. 

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

Read more like this

Top st ives restaurants & place to eat, michelin star and fine dining restaurants in cornwall, the prettiest harbours in cornwall.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Let with us

THE ESSENTIALS

Terms of use

• 0 My Favourites
• Property Owner

North Cornwall

South cornwall, west cornwall.

• Special Deals

Looking at stays in...

Best places to visit in cornwall: summer 2023 updated.

Posted by Select Cornwall

on 20/12/2022

And so the fated after-Christmas holiday planning begins...

Cornwall is, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Consider this alongside a tropical climate that rivals your favourite destinations the world over in the summer months and you have a whole county of ideal staycation destinations. However, just because the entirity of Cornwall has holiday options, doesn't mean every Cornwall option is the same.

So here at Select Cornwall we've put together a list of our top places to visit this summer, where to stay and what to do while you're there!

1. St. Ives

(Photo Credit: @veritywarren_ on Instagram)

St. Ives is what Cornwall's all about, and it kind of has it all. Along Cornwall's north coast, St Ives is surrounded by the uk's best surfing beaches. It has culture in the form of its very own Tate Gallery . It also has good food in abundance, with its dining options becoming more unique and reveared with every passing Summer.

Our top recommendation for lunch or dinner is the charming and casual  Porthgwidden Beach Cafe . Sister restaurant to Porthminster - a St Ives sea food institution - Porthgwidden shares alot of its values of freshness, ocean views and great service but does it all with a Mediterranean twist. This combination brings a new dimension to on-the-beach dining and creates a relaxed and unique lunch experience that is hard to find elsewhere. It's also a fantastic option to bring the family, as their pizza is equally as good as their Roasted Sea Bream with Padron Peppers .

Where to Stay?

We recommend staying in this unbelievably cute wood cottage for a few nights. It's more private than a stay right on the harbour, with the parking to get too and fro, and has multiple indoor and outdoor spots for you and a loved one to sip wine and take in some of the UK's best sunset views.

(Photo Credit: @on_my_travels_uk on Instagram)

Padstow is everything you want Cornwall to be, only more adorable. It's the capital of Cornwall's foodie scene. The port-side homes of Padstow, which peak out behind its many fishing boats, are shoulder to shoulder with some of the UK's most ingenious sea-food restuarants. Couple this with it's post-card-like aesthetic and gorgeous nearby beaches like Harlyn Bay and St George's Cove and you have a summer weekend away that you'll wish never had to end.

Our must-do activity in Padstow is dine at the Rick Stein Cafe . Ecclectic, Cooked to perfection, pricey and 'worth it' all describe a meal in this charming glass-fronted restaurant. Making sea food in Cornwall since 1975, the Stein family are famous for their contibutions to Padstow's notoriety and so it's only fair to go and check out why that might be when you're passing through.

Our Padstow selection for 2023 couldn't be closer to the beach or more perfect for a family getaway. This gem sleeps four at a great price and is already booking up quckly for the summer months!

3. Port Isaac

(Photo Credit: @Port.Isaac on Instagram)

What can get lost in the vivid descriptions of how beautiful Cornwall's surfing and sea views are, is just how stunning the land is too. And in no place is this beauty and walking opertunity more abundant than around Port Isaac. Iwalkcornwall's guide to great walks around St Isaac is pages and pages long, and for good reason. Walks like  St Endellion to Port Isaac  ,  Port Gaverne to Barretts Zawn  and  Port Quin to Port Isaac  are some of the most beuaituful in England and are all just a few minutes away if you holiday in this aesthetic port town.

Our Port Isaac pick is this idyllically located romantic cottage with hot tub . It's central, great for walks and surrounded by some of Cornwall's best views. Perfect for a couple's walking holiday.

(Photo Credit: @Cathers94 on Instagram)

Last but not least, we have the surfer holiday capital of the UK- Newquay. Covered in fantastic and established surf schools like SSS Surf School  and Wavehunters,  Newquay is the perfect location for new surfers to get their hang of the waves and for experienced individuals to meet an abundance of new surfing buddies.

Gorgeous beaches like Fistral Beach and Newquay Beach are definitely what brings so many people to this giant of the surfing world every summer, but the delectable restaurant options and original bars and clubs are what will keep you coming back. Restaurants like the Fistral Stable look like Miami every summer. Additionally, late night options like Whiskers and the Tom Thumb Cocktail Bar make amazing nights out for comedy and cocktails alike.

Newquay's real hidden gem however, is its golfing options. Check out a full list of it's best greens here .

Our pick for Newquay this summer is this to-die-for holiday cottage which is perfect for couples who want to partner romance, surfing and privacy.

And that's our list! Comment below what you thought of our picks and tag us on instagram ( @select_cornwall ) if you decide to take on one of these adventures.

Comment archive

Subscribe to blog.

Select subscription categories:

• August 2024
• February 2024
• January 2024
• December 2023
• November 2023
• October 2023
• September 2023
• August 2023
• February 2023
• January 2023
• December 2022
• November 2022
• October 2022
• September 2022
• August 2022
• February 2022
• January 2022
• December 2021
• September 2021
• February 2021
• January 2021
• December 2020
• November 2020
• February 2020
• December 2019
• November 2019
• October 2019

Book now, pay later.

Secure your holiday booking with just an 11% deposit upfront. Pay the rest off in installments before your stay.

Get the best price, right here!

Seen the same property cheaper on another website? We'll beat it, just contact us!

Stay longer, for free!

Depending on your dates of travel, some properties may be able to offer extra days... FREE!

Take me there

• Let your property
• Perranporth
• St. Austell

Don't miss a thing!

Sign up for exclusive offers and discounts! We'll keep in touch with our latest hot deals, and we'll never share your email.

• Select Cornwall on Facebook
• Select Cornwall on Twitter
• Select Cornwall on Google Plus
• © 2017 Select Cornwall
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Terms & Conditions

The Perfect 3 Days in Cornwall Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Cornwall is the southwesternmost county in England and is famed for its beautiful beaches, world-class surfing, and Cornish pasties. However, with a number of towns and cities in the county, it can be difficult to determine what to see and where to go if you’re planning a 3 days in Cornwall itinerary.

Cornwall is known to be the warmest area of England and has more sun year-round than virtually anywhere else in the country. With a culture distinct from elsewhere in England with strong Celtic roots, unique cuisine, incredible nature, beautiful beaches and fascinating history, Cornwall really makes for one of the best destinations to visit in the entirety of the country.

If you’re thinking of exploring this part of England, here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit, where to stay, how to get there and where to go in Cornwall!

Table of Contents

When to Visit Cornwall

Arguably the best time to visit Cornwall is either in the summer season of July to August if you are happy to endure the crowds in order to be able to fully enjoy the surf and the beach. Not that in the high season, it can be hard to find accommodation or even a spot in a car park due to crowds.

Or, alternatively, visiting in the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October should allow you to enjoy the beautiful coastal walks and towns in Cornwall with a fraction of the crowds that visit this region in summer.

Visiting Cornwall from November to April might not be the best time to go as the weather is the coldest and rainiest you will get all year. However, there are a number of advantages of travelling to this part of the world in the offseason.

Accommodation prices are surprisingly affordable and tourist crowds are virtually non-existent. The obvious disadvantage of travelling in the off-season is that it makes it hard to enjoy the beautiful coastline of the area.

Not only will you not be able to dip into the water but you may experience very strong winds, making it hard to enjoy some of the coastal paths and walks on offer in the southwest of England.

Regardless of when you decide to go, however, Cornwall is an area that should be on everyone’s English travel wishlist .

Getting To & Around Cornwall

There are a few options for travellers looking to get from Cornwall. While this article will focus on the best way to get to Cornwall from London, the pros and cons of each method are relevant to travelling from other parts of England . There are four main options to consider: train, bus, car or guided tour

There are trains to Cornwall from all over England with one of the most popular routes being to travel from London to Penzance in Cornwall. The journey takes just over 5 hours and there are several trains a day (there is also a night train available).

If you want to get to other destinations in Cornwall such as Newquay or St Ives then that will usually require at least one change of train from London, though there are some direct trains available.

When travelling by train in the UK, it is strongly recommended to book tickets in advance as you can get much better deals when compared to booking a day or two before travel. Click here to browse train schedules.

Travelling to Cornwall by bus from London means adding at least 3 hours onto your journey time. Both National Express and MegaBus run routes from London with direct routes available to towns in Cornwall such as Penzance, Newquay and St Ives.

Unless you’re travelling on a tight budget, I personally wouldn’t recommend this option, particularly if you’re on a short UK itinerary. Click here to browse bus schedules.

In our opinion, the best way to get to Cornwall from London or anywhere else in England is to rent a car. While the journey time will be comparable to taking a train, having a car will allow you to have a lot more flexibility in exploring Cornwall.

You can also take a slightly longer but more scenic route along the A-30 that goes along the coast rather than on the highway. This London to Cornwall drive can be an incredible trip on its own and it can be well worth making a few stops along the way.

Public transport within region is limited so having a car will ensure you can visit all the great destinations that are on offer! It’s certainly the easiest way to get around Cornwall.

We rented a car at Heathrow Airport which is a cheaper option than renting a vehicle from the centre of London. We recommend browsing on Rentalcars.Com to find deals on car hire as they aggregate results across a number of suppliers.

It can also be a good option to take out an excess insurance policy from a third party like iCarHireInsurance to ensure you don’t need to pay any excess in the event that you need to make a claim.

If you’re staying in London and prefer to take a tour to visit Cornwall then there a few options available. Most of the tours available will be around 5 days round trip and include accommodation, transport, some meals and a guide. If this is something that interests you I suggest checking out this tour that combines Cornwall with Devon.

3-Day Cornwall Itinerary

While it is entirely possible to spend a week or more enjoying the villages in Cornwall, the nature, the beaches in Cornwall and historic sites, you can cover a lot of ground in just 3 days. If you’re looking for the ideal 3-day Cornish trip, we’re here to help.

Day 1 – Tintagel, Newquay & the Eden Project

The first day of this road trip to Cornwall sees you exploring some diverse areas of this beautiful region. Start by exploring a medieval castle with mythical roots, visit an incredible indoor rainforest, or maybe try your hand at surfing in one of England’s premier beach destinations.

Begin this day in the town of Tintagel, home to Tintagel castle , which, according to folklore, was the mythical birthplace of the one and only King Arthur. This ruined fortification is located on its own small island accessible by a footbridge that leads over the dramatic cliffs below. The views are absolutely spectacular and there is definitely a certain kind of magic that can be found here.

There is a well-maintained visitor’s centre at Tintagel where you can learn more about the history and myth of this castle, or you can just take the time to be moved by how incredible the scenery is.

Note that admission to Tintagel is ticketed, with several different price points for adults, students, children and concessions. Ensure that you wear good shoes as there is some beautiful natural scenery to explore in the area, along with the ruins of the castle and the visitor’s centre.

The Eden Project

From Tintagel and for a different taste of nature, head to the Eden Project which has a number of different biomes including the biggest rainforest in captivity. If you’re an adrenaline junky, it’s possible to zip line across the entire park.

The Eden Project is more than just a botanical garden, it is absolutely massive and it’s perfect even for those who don’t ordinarily like this kind of attraction. There are countless different biomes and greenhouses, numerous outdoor gardens, a massive playground perfect for those travelling with kids and, of course, the zip wire and other adrenaline-pumping activities.

Plan to spend at least a few hours here before moving onto your next destination.

And finally, end your day in the charming town of Newquay, a quintessential seaside village that is a perfect place to explore and relax by the beach. There are countless fantastic restaurants in the town as well, including The Fish House , a well-renowned seafood eatery in Fistral Beach.

Newquay is also said to be the best surfing destination in the UK and the culture here may have you thinking you’ve arrived in a coastal town in Southern California or Australia.

There are countless surfing schools in Newquay that are there to teach you how to hit the waves, should that take your fancy, or you can just occupy yourself by watching the countless surfers from the warmth and safety of the sand (or a beachside bar!).

Day 2 – Penzance, St Michael’s Mount & Land’s End

Provided the weather works in your favour (and there is more of a chance of this in Cornwall than elsewhere in England), spend your second day of this Cornish road trip enjoying a number of Cornwall’s incredible outdoor sights and scenery.

Penzance & St Michael’s Mount

Begin your day in the charming town of Penzance. There isn’t all that much to see here in regards to tourist sites, however, the town itself is worth wandering through. There are a lot of points of interest around Penzance, however, that make it a great jumping-off point for day two of your time in Cornwall.

One such point of interest is the beautiful St Michael’s Mount which is one of the top places to visit in Cornwall. Located on a small island just a stone’s throw away from Penzance of the coast of the town of Marazion, the island is reachable by a man-made causeway that you can walk across at low to mid-tide (most of the day) and it only takes a few minutes to reach the island.

The main attraction of St Michael’s Mount would be the castle that lies on the island. Historically, the castle has been a counterpart of Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy .

The castle on St Michael’s Mount dates back as far as the 8th Century CE when the structure was built as a monastery, however, it has been home to the St Aubyn family since about 1650.

Minack Theatre

From St Michael’s Mount, hop in the car and get ready to experience some of the best natural scenery that you’ll experience in all of England, not just on this visit in Cornwall. For a man-made wonder with some of the best views in the world, take a trip to the Minack Theatre .

It’s an open-air theatre that a Cornish woman carved out of the side of a cliff. It has spectacular views of the sea and puts on Shakespeare productions during the summer season. It’s worth a visit even if you don’t see a show, though, because both the theatre and scenery are absolutely breathtaking.

Land’s End & Cape Cornwall

Now it’s time to head a little bit further southwest until you can’t drive any further — that’s because you’ve reached Land’s End, the southwesternmost point of Britain! This area is more known for its incredible views and stunning scenery, boasting dramatic cliffs and turquoise blue water.

On a clear day, it is even possible to see the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago that lies about 40 kilometres off the coast.

Driving a bit further north, you will reach Cape Cornwall, which is England’s only cape and also boasts numerous walking trails and incredible views. If the weather is fine and you’re keen to get outside a bit, I highly recommend taking a walk around here to experience some of the most amazing views you will see in the region.

Day 3 – Mousehole & St Ives

After spending so much time out in nature on the first two days of this 3 days in Cornwall itinerary, your final day will be spent exploring some iconic Cornish villages.

Begin your day in the lovely town of Mousehole, a traditional fishing village that is sure to steal your heart. While there may not be a huge amount of tourist points of interest here, it is packed with charm and well worth a wander through.

There is also a charming harbour to enjoy along with a number of cosy cafes, cute shops and other places to take it. It’s a great peaceful stop that can take you a bit away from a lot of tourist crowds.

From Mousehole, it’s time to head to one of the most popular places to visit in all of Cornwall, St Ives.

The city of St Ives boasts a lively art scene and even has its own branch of the Tate . There are a number of great restaurants and shops there as well and the winding cobbled streets exude a classic English charm.

The city itself has a lot to offer including some wonderful beaches, plenty of art galleries, locals shops to browse, great restaurants and much much more.

There are also ample walking opportunities that begin and end in the city so if you’re keen to get out into nature just a bit more, make sure to find some hikes that you can go on to enjoy the scenery around this lovely village and this part of Cornwall even more.

There is enough to do in St Ives to keep you occupied for the rest of the day, especially if you’re interested in hitting the beach or going for a walk. There’s no doubt that visiting St Ives is one of the best things to do in Cornwall.

The city also makes for an excellent place to end this trip to Cornwall.

Have More Time?

If you’re looking to spend five days or even a week in Cornwall, there are plenty of ways that you can extend your time in this lovely region.

If you’re keen to get outdoors, then make sure to take advantage of all of the incredible walks that are on offer in the area., including tackling some of the gorgeous South West Coast Path. You also could allot one or two days for a surfing lesson and for time to spend just lounging on the beach.

If you’re interested in exploring more towns and villages, then there are countless more settlements in Cornwall worth visiting including the city of Truro or the coastal towns of Bude and St Austell, the latter of which is home to the famed Lost Gardens of Heligan.

All in all, there is so much to see and do in Cornwall that you can’t go wrong with any length of a Cornwall road trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Cornwall

There are myriad places to stay whilst in Cornwall , from small cities to tiny fishing villages and if you have a car it doesn’t really matter where in the county you stay as you will have the freedom to go wherever you’d like.

If travelling in high season, it is highly advisable to book ahead as Cornwall is an extremely popular destination for both international and local tourists.

If you prefer to stay in a bigger town with a larger selection of restaurants or pubs around then staying in places like Penzance, Newquay or St. Ives are good options. Here are some suggested places in each town.

Chiverton House B&B – A cosy bed and breakfast run by a situated in the heart of Penzance. They offer a range of private rooms suitable for up to two people with all modern amenities.

The Dolphin Tavern – A traditional inn located right on the coast making it the perfect choice if you want to enjoy lovely sea views every morning. Breakfast is included in the room rate.

Cliff House – A great place to stay in Newquay that is well located in the centre of town and next to the beach. Rooms are suitable for couples or families with a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Selkies NQY   – Located a few minutes walk from the beach, this is a great luxurious option for couples looking for a place to stay in Newquay. Staff are friendly and there is a bar on site.

Palma Guest House – A seafront guesthouse overlooking the beautiful St Ives coast, this place has several lovely rooms to choose from and a great location within the village.

Lifeboat Inn – A chic inn overlooking Porthmeor Beach in St Ives, this hotel offers numerous well-decorated rooms, an on-site bar and an excellent breakfast each morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places to stay in Cornwall!

Planning the perfect road trip around Cornwall isn’t a difficult task, with so many beautiful and historic places to visit. No matter how long you plan to spend in this incredible region of England, you’re sure to have an incredible time exploring the historic towns, beautiful nature, and stunning coastline.

Are you planning a Cornwall trip? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Weekend in Manchester Itinerary

Explore Robin Hood’s Home on a Day Trip to Nottingham

Epping Forest Walks: The Best London Day Hike

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Great itinerary!! Can’t wait! we prefer to stay in one of the smaller quaint villages,as though pretending we live there! HaHa!

Where would you suggest for 2 nights or break that up.

Perfect itenary for us. Follow this on Easter long weekend. Thank you.

Thanks! Glad you found this helpful 🙂

Thank you very much. The itinerary sounds fantastic! Could not wait to follow your suggestion.

Hope you have a lovely holiday, Mola!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Cornwall Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Our Cornwall Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this beautiful English county. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Cornwall!

Plan your visit to Cornwall

With its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, castles , historical treasures and quaint towns and villages no wonder Cornwall in England’s south west is one of the top destinations for British holidaymakers.

Cornwall has something to appeal to every age group and is the perfect destination for families, couples, solo travellers.

For walkers, surfers, foodies, beach lovers, history enthusiasts and nature lovers Cornwall is the place to be!

Map of Cornwall

When is the best time to visit cornwall, top attractions in cornwall include:, cornwall travel guide – accommodation, take a tour, day trips and tours, experiences, tips for visitors to cornwall, traditional english dishes from cornwall, books to read about cornwall, enjoy your visit to cornwall.

• The best time to visit Cornwall is in June or September before or after the UK school holiday season when it can be very busy.
• During July and August, the weather is generally at its best (it is the English summer period and can be notoriously unpredictable) but this is also high season and the roads are busy with visitors heading to the pretty Cornish seaside towns and beaches.
• This is also the most expensive time of year to visit.
• Temperatures during the winter months can fluctuate so expect to wrap up to keep warm and dry!

Places to visit & things to do in Cornwall

See the best of Cornwall with our preferred tour partner Meneage Tours

Whether you are arriving in Cornwall by train or would like to take a break from driving so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery without negotiating those country lanes a private tour with Meneage Tours is the perfect option.

⭐️ Click here for more information and experience the extraordinary magic of Cornwall with Meneage Tours

BEST PLACES TO VISIT & THINGS TO DO IN CORNWALL

Read – Cornwall 7 day road trip itinerary

Land’s End

Saint Michael’s Mount

Minack Theatre

10 best things to do in St Ives

Kynance Cove

The Eden Project

Lost Gardens of Heligan

Cornwall Seal Sanctuary

There are accommodation options to suit all budgets and travel styles in Cornwall. Click the links below for the best options for your trip.

Tip – Book in advance, particularly during the summer months or you may find accommodation is full.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORNWALL(LOCATION AND ACCOMMODATION GUIDE)

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

Practical tips for visiting Cornwall

How to get to cornwall from london.

Drive to Cornwall in less than 5 hours from London via the M4.

Click here for directions via google maps.

Tip – Please note that in the summer months, the roads can be very congested so travel overnight or outside peak rush hours to avoid long delays.

There are a number of train routes to take to get to Cornwall from London including the sleeper train service the Night Riviera .

The most popular train route is from London Paddington to Newquay which takes around 5 hours.

Alternatively, take a direct train from Bath (why not stay in Bath for a few days) or Bristol. The London – Bath – Cornwall route is one of our 10 favourite UK train journeys.

Find out more information including train timetables and fares on the trainline.com

National Express coaches travel from London to Truro in Cornwall and take around 7 hours. This is the cheapest method of transport but also the slowest!

Fly to Newquay airport from airports around the UK including London Gatwick, Belfast, Aberdeen, and Manchester amongst others.

Cornwall 5-Day Tour with Meneage Tours This 5-day private tour with our preferred tour partners in Cornwall have created a fantastic tour which combines the best that Cornwall has to offer. 

Listen – Podcast Episode #34 Introduction to Cornwall with Doug of Meneage Tours

Read more – Complete guide to transportation in the UK (including planes, trains and automobiles)

Recommended day trips and experiences in Cornwall

• Book a private driver-guided tour with Meneage Tours (mention UK Travel Planning when you book) who offer a variety of themed tour options as well as the ability to design your own bespoke tour.
• Private Poldark Tour with Pickup – Day tour of filming locations featured in the BBC drama Poldark, adapted from the Winston Graham series visiting sites throughout Cornwall .
• Doc Martin Tour – Take a guided walking tour of filming locations from the hit show Doc Martin in the picturesque village of Port Isaac in Cornwall. If you prefer a private tour we recommend this Doc Martin & North Cornwall Tour with Meneage Tours.
• Build Your Own Tour – Meneage Tours has built a lot of specialist tours for customers over the last few years, including Geneology, Cornish mining history, Railways, Literature, Doc Martin, Poldark, photography…… you want it, they will build it – contact Meneage Tours and create your dream Cornwall adventure today.

• Hot Air Balloon Flight – Enjoy a Champagne Hot Air Balloon flight over the beautiful countryside of Cornwall. Take in the stunning English scenery as you float effortlessly through the sky.
• Make Your Own Wedding Rings in Cornwall – Experience the processes that go into hand-making rings. as you work on your special unique rings. Choose to make your rings in silver or gold to your own design. 
• Cornwall is always very busy over the summer months. Easter and the holiday weekend at the end of May are also popular months to visit Cornwall. Book accommodation, car hire and attractions ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
• Don’t miss the wonderful seafood – fish and chip shops are in abundance (Beware of the seagulls – they will try and steal your food and can be very aggressive)
• Pack jeans and a sweater even during the summer months just in case the weather changes (it can be rainy and windy at any time of year)
• We recommend hiring a car to get around Cornwall – while you can travel to Cornwall from London by train you will need a car to experience the best of Cornwall. Note that roads can be narrow and single lane. High hedges can also restrict views so drive very carefully.
• Check tides before heading to the beach – and also pay attention to incoming tides. Pack your swimming costume, sunglasses and sunblock – swim where there are lifeguards. 
• Check opening times for popular destinations such as the Eden Project. Tintagel and St Michael’s Mount. Also check the weather as this can impact accessibility to some attractions.

Read more – 10 best things to do (and places to visit) in England’s South West

Traditional foods of Cornwall include the Cornish pasty, Cornish clotted cream served with a scone and jam to make a cream tea, Stargazy Pie, saffron cake, and Cornish yarg (cheese).

Check out my travel guides for more travel inspiration around England:

• Dorset Jurassic Coast Travel Guide
• Bath Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide
• Top 10 things to do in South West England
• Where to stay in Devon
• 12 pretty towns and villages to visit in England

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

9 Utterly Amazing Places To Visit In Cornwall

From stunning beaches and great restaurants, to historic country mansions, these are the best places to visit in cornwall..

Cornwall is one of England’s top holiday destinations for a reason! It has some of the country’s best beaches, great restaurants and a variety of things to do. Places like Newquay, Padstow and St Ives have been popular for a long time, but the whole county has experienced a boom over the last few years.

All of a sudden, holidays in Spain were swapped for beach breaks in Cornish villages, and many discovered just how amazing this region is for travel.

Whether you’re interested in water sports, food, walking the South West Coast Path or history, there’s something for you in Cornwall. So, it’s time to dive into this pretty region in the south west of England, and share our favourite nine places to visit in Cornwall.

9 Amazing Places To Visit In Cornwall

There are only a few places in England that attract visitors purely for food… Whitstable, Ludlow, perhaps a few spots in the Lake District and Padstow in Cornwall.

This town is renowned for its food scene, with two of the biggest names in England’s culinary world, Paul Ainsworth and Rick Stein, owning restaurants here. It’s one of our favourite places to visit in Cornwall as it will always satisfy our stomachs. Tuck into the freshest fish and chips around at Stein’s chippy by the harbour, or book in for Michelin starred cuisine at Paul Ainsworth At No.6. You won’t be disappointed.

Padstow is filled with charm too, with its pretty harbour, candy-coloured houses and great views from the headland looking out to Rock. Be warned, it gets extremely busy in peak summer so our tip would be to visit in spring or autumn. You’ll still be able to enjoy lovely walks and great food, without the worries of finding parking or getting a reservation.

Read more: 13 Best Places To Eat In Padstow

Minack Theatre

If you’re looking for a cultural experience on your trip to Cornwall, you simply have to book tickets to a show at the Minack Theatre . This spectacular open-air granite amphitheatre is carved right into the cliffs above Porthcurno Beach. That means the backdrop to every show is the sea! It’s located just four miles from Land’s End and hosts over 200 live performances each year, including operas, plays and musicals.

One of the most popular towns in Cornwall, Newquay boasts some of the best surf in the country. No matter what the season or weather, if you head to Fistral Beach you’ll see some brave surfers catching some waves.

Newquay is a great option for family holidays as there is quite a lot to in the town. You could enjoy some beach time, try your hand at crazy golf, win in the arcades, relax in a cute café or explore the independent shops.

If you’re looking for accommodation in Newquay or the north coast of Cornwall, I’d recommend taking a look at Classic Cottages . From apartments by the beach to large houses with sea views, there’s something to fit every taste and budget.

Lanhydrock House and Garden

If your idea of a great day out is to wander around a spectacular National Trust property or some landscaped gardens, you simply have to book a ticket to Lanhydrock . The country house resembles an impressive castle and is set amongst 1,000 acres of woodland.

Read more: 8 National Trust Properties in Cornwall

Inside you can take a tour of dining rooms, a billiards room, regal bedrooms and kitchens and servants’ quarters. Meanwhile, head outside to see the vast landscaped gardens, which are famous for the herbaceous borders and tulip displays.

Lanhydrock House is located close to Bodmin, so you could combine your visit with a walk around Bodmin Moor (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) or visit the town’s famous jail.

Kynance Cove

If you’ve ever seen photos of Cornwall with bright blue water and intriguing rock formations, it was probably taken at Kynance Cove. This pretty spot on Cornwall’s south coast is just as beautiful as in the photos!  

Time your visit for low tide and you’ll be able to wander along the pristine sand to see the rocks close up, as well as several caves and rock pools. This is another popular spot, so we’d recommend visiting first thing in the morning to beat the crowds.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

One of the best places to visit in Cornwall for those with green fingers, The Lost Gardens of Heligan cover 200 acres and are home to numerous plant species you won’t see elsewhere.  The gardens are particularly famous for its collection of camellias, ferns and rhododendrons, and include areas including a sub-tropical jungle, crystal grotto and ancient woodlands.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan are located a short drive from one of Cornwall’s prettiest fishing villages, Mevagissey, which also happens to be home to one of the county’s most famous model railways .

St Ives offers the best of Cornwall in one location. Love food? There are several great restaurants and pubs dotted throughout this quaint town. Enjoy art? Visit the Tate St Ives or the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden for a modern look at the world. Craving beach time? The sand here is some of the whitest in Cornwall.

This north Cornwall town also has plenty of beautiful coastal cottages and apartments to pick from. I’d recommend looking at the Morwenstow apartments – several stylish accommodation options all offering spectacular sea views over Porthminster beach, St Ives harbour and beyond.

This is also one of the prettiest parts of the South West Coast Path, so if you’re an avid walker you’ll be sure to enjoy lots of fresh sea air on your visit!  

St Michael’s Mount

Fancy visiting a magical tidal island during your trip? St Michael’s Mount is one of our favourite places to visit in Cornwall as it’s so unique. You can reach the island by walking across the causeway at low tide.

Once there, head to the historic 12th century castle, explore the small village or grab a drink at the pub. There’s nowhere quite like it in England, so it’s one spot you just can’t miss!

This traditional fishing village has a minute centre laced with skinny streets and a small but perfect harbour. You might recognise it from TV series including Doc Martin and Poldark too. It has all the charm you’d expect from a Cornish seaside town, with ice cream stands, pasty stores and gift shops.

Along with Padstow, it’s one of the best places to visit in Cornwall for foodies. Top chef Nathan Outlaw has two restaurants in the village: Outlaw’s New Road and Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen. Both celebrate Cornwall’s fresh produce, so you know they’ll be worth visiting!

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these amazing places to visit in Cornwall. If you’re planning your trip, definitely read our Cornwall road trip itinerary , 21 fun facts about Cornwall , the prettiest National Trust houses in Cornwall and the best places to eat in Padstow . We adore Cornwall so it’s one of the most written about counties on our site!

The Ultimate Cornwall Trip Planner

Planning a holiday in Cornwall? These handy travel guides will help you decide where to stay, what to do and where to eat on your trip.

The Best Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary + Tips

Planning a Cornwall road trip? From beaches and great restaurants, to interesting attractions, this route takes in the best of the county.

Ultimate Cornwall Travel Guides - Tips, Itineraries + More

Thinking of visiting Cornwall? These helpful Cornwall travel guides cover everything from where to stay and what to do, to the best restaurants.

11 Amazing Luxury Hotels in Cornwall

Planning a trip to the Cornish coast or countryside? This guide to the best luxury hotels in Cornwall will help you decide where to stay.

8 National Trust Houses In Cornwall You Have To Visit

These National Trust houses in Cornwall are well worth a visit. Find out all you need to know about visiting Trerice, Lanhydrock, Cotehele Manor and more.

19 Best Art Galleries in Cornwall

From world-famous artworks and quality crafts, to modern pottery and hip graphics, these are the 19 best art galleries in Cornwall.

8 Best Glamping Sites in Cornwall, England

Are you looking for the best glamping sites in Cornwall? From wooden cabins with hot tubs to shepherd’s huts, this is where to glamp in Cornwall.

13 Best Places To Eat In Padstow, Cornwall

The best places to eat in Padstow include Michelin-starred gourmet cuisine, fresh seafood, Italian delicacies and classic fish and chips.

21 Fun Facts About Cornwall, England

How big was the world’s largest pasty? Where is Europe’s second largest redwood forest? Read these fun facts about Cornwall to find out now.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Perranuthnoe
• Mawgan Porth
• Widemouth Bay
• Watergate Bay
• Constantine Bay
• Charlestown
• Tregothnan Estate

• Cornwall Guide
• Join our Portfolio
• All Destinations

• North Cornwall Beaches
• South Cornwall Beaches
• West Cornwall Beaches
• Dog Friendly Beaches

The Best Restaurants in Cornwall

Date posted: 4 sep 2024.

With Michelin starred restaurants, fine dining galore and one of the best natural larders in the world, finding good restaurants in Cornwall is a pleasure.

Food and travel writer Emma Henderson shares the 10 best restaurants in Cornwall to visit in 2025…

Cornwall’s lucky enough to have a huge and beautiful coastline, along with bundles of rolling countryside, meaning homegrown, quality food has always been important here. So, it’s no surprise it’s also home to some of the UK’s most exciting and notable restaurants, where seafood reigns and locally sourced produce is always on the menu. 

As well as the top notch pasties, ice-cream and Cornish cream teas the county is known for, there’s a whole host of incredibly talented and inspiring restaurant owners and chefs that reflect the beauty and quality of their surroundings, which are more than worth travelling for – just remember to book ahead!

Here’s our review of the best restaurants to book when visiting the county.

The Shore, Penzance

Owner and chef of The Shore, Bruce Renie, is one of the most passionate people in the business when it comes to using quality food. So much so, he’s often at Newlyn harbour, buying fish before it even gets to market. His whole ethos is using the freshest, best quality local produce he can to serve up his innovative food. 

The restaurant might be simple and unassuming, but Bruce’s Cornish menu is full of fish, and inspired by Japanese flavours and cooking techniques. He seamlessly brings the two together, creating a perfectly formed multi-course menu (or a more casual mid-week offering). His food undoubtedly deserves a Michelin star, especially considering it’s just a two person operation.

theshorerestaurant.uk

©Charlie McKay

Coombeshead, nr Launceston

Coombeshead is now one of Cornwall’s most popular restaurants, which has a real sustainability focus. After well-known chefs Tom Adams and April Bloomfield took over the dairy farm, opening the restaurant and rooms in 2016, it’s been tricky to secure a dinner booking. It’s best known for its exceptional organic sourdough bread, which is even on menus as far away as London. The restaurant’s inside one of the old barns and serves rustic and exceptionally good food that’s full of flavour. Little is wasted or has travelled far, as most of it comes from the farm, and it’s the spirit at Coombeshead which really kick-started Cornwall’s farm to fork revolution.

coombesheadfarm.co.uk

Nathan Outlaw, New Road, Port Issac

Often deemed to be one of the country’s best restaurants, Nathan Outlaw has done for Port Isaac what Rick Stein did for Padstow in terms of food, as it needed no introduction thanks to ITV’s hugely popular TV programme , Doc Martin . Sitting at the top of the fishing village, Outlaw’s New Road restaurant is the fine dining outpost, and is not to be confused with the more relaxed small plate offering, Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, in the bottom of the village. Both of which hold a prestigious Michelin star.

Outlaw’s New Road offers a fish-focused tasting menu, championing everything from spider crab to gurnard. With its picturesque views, overlooking the rugged north Cornish coast below, it’s the place to go for a real celebration.

outlaws.co.uk

©Lateef Photography

Paul Ainsworth, No 6, Padstow

Paul and Emma Ainsworth took over the Georgian townhouse at number 6 in Padstow in 2005 and turned it into a fine dining restaurant with rooms. They rightly earned a Michelin star in 2013 and have successfully managed to retain it ever since. The food is modern British, and celebrates the best of local Cornish produce. Among the nine courses on the tasting menu, expect dishes like hay-aged pigeon with salted plum, which of course change seasonally, too.

paul-ainsworth.co.uk

©Rebecca Dickson

Crocadon, St. Mellion, near Saltash

After opening in early 2023, Crocadon has actually been five years in the making, as chef and farmer, Dan Cox, took over the farm of the same name in order to supply the restaurant. The aim was to be as self-sufficient as possible, and really cook inline with whatever produce is available from the farm’s own vegetable patches. Crocadon is the latest restaurant to join the exclusive Michelin club, scooping the prestigious star just a year after its opening.

The restaurant sits inside one of the restored farm barns, and with less than 10 tables, booking is essential too. Choose between an impressive yet relaxed multi course evening menu, or the outstanding Sunday lunches.

crocadon.farm

©Jake Eastham

The Pig, Harlyn Bay, nr Padstow

Cornwall’s outpost of the Pig hotel’s litter, sits just above Padstow in Harlyn Bay, and opened in the challenging summer of 2020. As is the case with all of the Pig hotels, it’s taken over a grand old manor house, which dates back to the 15th century, and has been lovingly brought back to life with its luxe take on shabby chic decor. The signature 25-mile radius menu features food and drinks from excellent local producers, such as Philip Warren butchers and Camel Valley Vineyard, as well as using its own kitchen garden, too. The cooking is down to earth, but elevated by the quality ingredients. Although if you’re after something more casual, the outdoor eatery, the Lobster Shed , specialises in grilled seafood.

thepighotel.com

Prawn on the Lawn, Padstow

Rick and Katie Toogood, th e duo behind Prawn On The Lawn, are so proud of the quality of the fish they dish up, that there’s also an in-house fish counter inside the restaurant. On the menu are excellent small fish-focused plates, which are so fresh thanks to the restaurant being right in the heart of Padstow. It’s also seen them scoop the Trencherman’s Award 2023 for the Best Restaurant.

Dishes change daily, depending on the catch and are often doused in well-balanced Asian flavourings, which go well with the hyper-local wine from Trevibban Mill, just outside Padstow. Be sure not to overlook the side dish of crispy crushed spiced potatoes either.

prawnonthelawn.com

Ugly Butterfly ©John Hersey

Ugly Butterfly, Carbis Bay, St Ives

Ugly Butterfly is chef and owner Adam Handling’s first restaurant in Cornwall, and with near floor to ceiling windows, it has unbeatable views over Carbis Bay . The restaurant really pushes the boat out on all levels, including its Scandi-inspired interiors, and imaginatively crafted cocktails. While the food focuses on sustainably caught and grown produce, which is superbly cooked, and really provides that luxurious experience. It’s unlikely to be one to take the children to, but it would make a great date night location, or even better in the daytime, if you’re lucky enough to have blue skies.

uglybutterfly.co.uk

Categories: Fine Dining , Michelin Star Restaurants , Restaurants with a view

Read more about foodie favourites here...

Emily Scott’s Hand-Dived Cornish Scallops Recipe

I take cooking inspiration from Emily Scott’s new book Sea & Shore for her hand-Dived Cornish Scallops. Here she shares her recipe… Plump, sweet scallops. I love nothing more than simp...

Michelin Star Restaurants in Cornwall

While there are currently 46 restaurants in the Michelin Guide, only four restaurants hold the prestigious Michelin Star. Considered the most respected accolade in the restaurant industry, achieving a...

Food and drink to try in Cornwall

Holidays in Cornwall are often shaped around the beach and food… and isn’t that the sign of a great getaway. Cornwall’s larder is world famous with some of the finest produce on the planet comin...

Restaurants in St Ives with sea views

Planning a trip to the Cornish hotspot? What better place to start than pinning down the best St Ives restaurants with a sea view? Cornwall’s food scene continues to grow at epic proportions, as cul...

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• HM Treasury

Sovereign Grant Act 2011: guidance

Updated 8 August 2023

© Crown copyright 2023

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sovereign-grant-act-2011-guidance/sovereign-grant-act-2011-guidance

1. Sovereign Grant

The Sovereign Grant Act 2011 came into effect on 1 April 2012. It sets the single grant supporting the Monarch’s official business, enabling The King to discharge his duties as Head of State. It meets the central staff costs and running expenses of His Majesty’s official household – including official receptions, investitures and garden parties. It also covers maintenance of the Royal Palaces in England and the cost of travel to carry out royal engagements such as opening buildings and other royal visits.

In exchange for this public support, The King surrenders the revenue from The Crown Estate to the government. Over the last ten years, the revenue paid to the Exchequer is £3 billion and is used for public spending.

The Sovereign Grant for 2022-23 is £86.3 million, the same as in 2021-22. While the net revenue surplus for The Crown Estate fell in 2020-21 due to the impact of Covid, the Sovereign Grant Act 2011 includes a mechanism to keep the Grant at the same level as the previous year in such circumstances. Where the Grant would reduce, the previous year’s amount should be paid.

No member of the Royal Family receives an allowance from the government.

Visit the official website of the British Monarchy

2. Determination of the Sovereign Grant

Normally the size of Sovereign Grant for a given year is equal to a prescribed proportion (initially 15% and since 2017/18 25%) of The Crown Estate’s profit for the financial year two years prior to the year in question. This means that the Grant can be set firmly at the beginning of each financial year, Under the requirements of the Sovereign Grant Act 2011, in the event of a reduction in The Crown Estate’s profits in the reference year as in 2020- 21, the Sovereign Grant is set at the same level as the previous year.

The Royal Trustees (the Prime Minister, the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Keeper of the Privy Purse) prepare a formal report recommending the amount of the Sovereign Grant for the next financial year based on the formula described above. This report has to be published as soon as practicable after the Sovereign Grant and The Crown Estate Accounts for that year have been published.

If the whole of the Sovereign Grant is not spent in a given year, the surplus is paid into a Reserve Fund, controlled by the Royal Trustees. The amount that may accumulate in the Reserve Fund is limited in line with the provisions set out in the Sovereign Grant Act 2011. This gives the Royal Trustees the power to set a lower level of Sovereign Grant than the formula would otherwise generate.

3. Accountability

The Keeper of the Privy Purse as Accounting Officer for the Sovereign Grant, is accountable to HM Treasury and Parliament. The Sovereign Grant business accounts are audited by the National Audit Office (NAO) and laid before Parliament. The NAO may also undertake value for money reviews to scrutinise its use of public funds. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) may in turn investigate these further.

4. Review of the formula for Sovereign Grant

The percentage used for calculating the Sovereign Grant is reviewed periodically. The first review took place in 2016 and assessed whether the 15% proportion value was appropriate. The Royal Trustees recommended an increase in the percentage to 25% from 2017-18 to fund a ten-year reservicing works at Buckingham Palace and the Monarch’s official duties.

The second percentage review has concluded and the Royal Trustees Report published in July 2023 recommends that the percentage rate be reduced to 12%. A statutory instrument giving effect to this rate will be laid in Parliament in due course. The change of percentage will come into effect from April 2024.

For more details, please read:

• the Sovereign Grant Act 2011: Report of the Royal Trustees on the Sovereign Grant Review 2016
• Report of the Royal Trustees on the Sovereign Grant Review 2023
• the Buckingham Palace Reservicing Programme Summary

5. Duchy of Cornwall

The Duchy of Cornwall is a private landed estate created by Charter in 1337 when Edward III granted it to his son and heir, Prince Edward (the Black Prince) and all his subsequent heirs. It provides each Duke with an income from its assets.

The estate comprises primarily agricultural, commercial and residential property, in addition to which the Duchy has a portfolio of financial investments. The Duchy consists of around 52,971 hectares of land in 23 counties, mostly in the South West of England. For more details, please visit the official website for the Duchy of Cornwall .

Under the Sovereign Grant Act:

• a grant is to be paid to heirs to the throne who are not Dukes of Cornwall to put them in a similar financial position as if they were Dukes of Cornwall; this means that in future, daughters of the Monarch, as well as younger sons, could benefit
• if the heir is not the Duke of Cornwall and is over 18, the heir is to receive a grant based on Duchy revenues; the Monarch (who in these circumstances becomes the Duke) receives the Duchy revenues, and the Sovereign Grant is reduced by an equal amount (so in effect, the heir would receive the Duchy income)
• if the Duke of Cornwall is a minor, 90% of the revenues of the Duchy go to the Monarch and the Sovereign Grant is reduced accordingly

6. Royal Palaces

The Occupied Royal Palaces are held in trust for the nation by The King as Sovereign. Their maintenance and upkeep is one of the expenses met by the government in return for the surrender by the Sovereign of the hereditary revenues of the Crown (mainly the profit from The Crown Estate). The Sovereign Grant allows the Royal Household to set its own priorities and thus generate economies.

The Occupied Royal Palaces are:

• Buckingham Palace
• St James’s Palace
• the residential and office areas of Kensington Palace
• the Royal Mews and Royal Paddocks at Hampton Court
• Windsor Castle and buildings in the Home and Great Parks at Windsor

7. Royal Travel

The Sovereign Grant covers the cost of The King’s travel on official engagements and travel by members of the Royal Family representing Him. Safety, security, presentation, the need to minimise disruption for others, the effective use of time, environmental impact and cost are taken into account when deciding on the most appropriate means of travel.

Where appropriate, The King and Queen plus other Members of the Royal Family use scheduled train services for their official journeys. In addition, The King and other Members of the Royal Family representing The King may use the Royal Train for longer journeys in the UK.

The Royal Train enables members of the Royal Family to travel overnight and to work and hold meetings during lengthy journeys. It has office and communications facilities.

Journeys on the train are always organised so as not to interfere with scheduled services.

The Monarch is not legally liable to pay income tax, capital gains tax or inheritance tax because the relevant enactments do not apply to the Crown. The same is true for the income from the Duchy of Cornwall which is paid to The Prince of Wales. Since 1993, The Monarch and the Prince of Wales have voluntarily paid tax. This is set out in a  Memorandum of Understanding on Royal Taxation , updated July 2023.

The King is not liable to pay tax on the Sovereign Grant as it covers official expenditure only and, under the arrangements in the Memorandum, tax would not be due.

Other key points to note:

• the King voluntarily pays income and capital gains tax, alongside inheritance tax to the extent described in paragraphs 1.10 and 1.11 in the Memorandum. Tax is also paid on The King’s Privy Purse income (which includes income received from the Duchy of Lancaster) to the extent that it is not used for official purposes
• other members of the Royal Family are fully liable to tax in the normal way. The cost of their official duties is allowed against tax

9. The Crown Estate

The Crown Estate is the property of the Sovereign “in right of the Crown”, as set out on  the official website of The Crown Estate . Since 1760 each monarch has surrendered its revenue to the Exchequer in return for government support.

The Crown Estate is managed by an independent organisation, headed by a Board which is charged with maintaining and enhancing the value of the Estate, and any profit from the Estate is paid every year to the Treasury for the benefit of all UK taxpayers. The Treasury is effectively the principle Government stakeholder.

For more details, you can view financial information on this section of  the official website of The Crown Estate .

The profit of The Crown Estate is a reference point for the calculation of Sovereign Grant. The Crown Estate does not pay the Sovereign Grant to the Monarch directly. The Crown Estate makes payments each year to the Consolidated Fund and HM Treasury pays the Sovereign Grant to the Monarch.

10. Security costs

No breakdown of security costs is available as disclosure of such information could compromise the integrity of these arrangements and affect the security of the individuals protected. It is long established policy not to comment upon the protective security arrangements and their related costs for members of the Royal Family or their residences.

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

• Accommodation
• Destinations
• Things to do
• What's on
• My itinerary
• Things To Do

Top things to do in September

Welcome to September in Cornwall. It's that sweet spot between seasons - still sunny enough for beach days, but with a hint of autumn's calm in the air.

As the summer winds down, Cornwall comes alive with a variety of events that allow you to make the most of these last sun-soaked days. From BBQs that let you indulge in the flavours of summer one last time, to festivals that celebrate Cornwall's rich cultural heritage, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your calendar.

Now's your chance to really soak in Cornwall's beauty. Stroll along quiet coastal paths, explore sleepy towns, or discover a hidden garden or two. Whether you're after a bit of adventure, some culinary delights, or just a peaceful wander, Cornwall in September has something up its sleeve for everyone. So grab a Cornish ice cream (it's never too cold for one of those) and check out our top picks for things to do this month. Trust us, September might just be Cornwall's best-kept secret.

One last taste of Summer

It’s our last chance to enjoy a BBQ before the roast season well and truly kicks in. Why not let someone else do the work with the BBQ while you sit back and relax at one of these events.

The Rosevine 1st and 7th September Make the most of the lingering sunshine at The Rosevine where they will be kicking off September with a sumptuous BBQ feast. Unwind with friends and family in the picturesque coastal retreat nestled right in the heart of Portscatho . Enjoy dishes like BBQ’d smoked pork belly, salmon in paprika and honey, or a steak burger topped with brisket and crispy bacon, alongside fresh sides from the salad bar. For those who don’t eat meat, options like miso-crusted butternut squash steaks and vegan burgers are also available. Pair your meal with a selection of fresh sides from the salad bar and finish off with a Roskilly’s ice cream topped with toasted almonds and a chocolate flake.

Trebah Beach BBQ with live music from Will Keating 20th September Embrace the Cornish Spirit at Trebah’s Beach BBQ with music from local favourite Will Keating. Set on Trebah’s private beach, you can expect a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering friends, family, or even colleagues to enjoy the last tastes of summer. Alongside the BBQ and entertainment, your ticket also includes entry to Trebah Garden from 4pm, giving you the chance to explore the subtropical paradise that Trebah is known for. Take your time wandering through the garden’s lush landscapes before settling in for an evening of great food, music, and stunning seaside views as the show kicks off at 6:30pm.

Housel Bay Summer Sundays Every Sunday throughout September Hang onto the taste of Summer with Housel Bay’s Summer Sundays menu served every Sunday throughout September. Expect all the BBQ classics alongside some elevated dishes including seasonal small plates and sharers, fresh Cadgwith lobsters, local BBQ meat and burgers and more. Settle in for al fresco dining on the terrace, overlooking the stunning Lizard Peninsula.

St Ives September Festival

14th - 28th September Celebrate Cornwall’s vibrant art scene at the St Ives September Festival, set against the backdrop of one of Cornwall’s most beautiful towns. This two-week-long event is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich mix of music, art, and culture. Wander through the town enjoying live music and street entertainment, attend workshops ranging from yoga and aerial arts to intuitive painting and creative writing, celebrating art in all its forms. Explore open studios showcasing the talent of local artists, and on Saturday the 14th, join in the fun with a sandcastle competition on Porthminster Beach .

Art lovers also won’t want to miss the final chance to see the Maresias exhibition at The Tate , exhibiting until 29th September.

Truro Food Festival

25th – 29th September Enjoy a mouth-watering experience with the return of the Truro Food Festival, running from September 25th to 29th. This harvest-time celebration will shine a light on the many talented up-and-coming chefs, as well as some familiar faces, through engaging chef demos. Showcasing local artisans and small businesses offering a range of fresh local produce alongside home grown food and drink, it’s the perfect opportunity to get a true taste of Cornwall.

Alongside culinary highlights, expect live entertainment, all your favourite Cornish street food vendors and of course plenty of family fun.

A BIG day out in Newquay

Saturday 7th September Get ready for a vibrant day out in Newquay with a series of events perfect for a family day out. Start your day at Newquay’s BIG Market with around 50 local makers, producers, and small businesses, it's the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts, support local talent, while enjoying live entertainment, creative sessions, and community fun. With Christmas just around the corner (the 16th marks 100 days left!) it’s a great opportunity for the forward planners to pick up Christmas gifts.

The market takes place alongside Newquay's Summer Finale, a free family fun day at the Killacourt, featuring games, activities, and live music for the whole family to enjoy.

After exploring all the market has to offer and getting your fill of free fun at the Summer Finale, head down to the Newquay Harbour Festival where The Boathouse will be hosting a celebration of community spirit and local enterprise. The Boathouse and Newquay BID, together with Cornwall Shop Small, have curated an exciting line-up of events that highlight the best of the town. Expect cooking demonstrations from talented Cornish chefs, a Harbour Rockpool Ramble, interactive gin flavouring sessions, wine tastings, and live music throughout the day. This vibrant event is all about coming together to enjoy Newquay's unique charm and celebrate the local produce that makes the town special.

Indian Summer Woodland Feast

20th September Escape to the Duchy of Cornwall Nursery to celebrate the last blast of summer with their Indian summer feast. Held on the scenic Woodland Terrace, this event offers a delicious three-course meal that features seasonal ingredients, perfectly capturing the transition from summer to autumn. With live music accompanying the good food, it’s the perfect way to soak up the final warmth of summer in a stunning setting.

Camborne Fun Fridays

Every Friday until 13th September It’s your last chance to take part in Camborne’s Summer of Wonder with their Fun Friday events. Held every Friday, children can enjoy a series of workshops, circus skills, puppet shows, live music and lots more. The best part? It’s completely free. For up-to-date information on the activities and workshops available at the next Friday, follow Camborne’s Facebook page, linked below.

Bodmin Rail China Clay Gala

7th & 8th September Step back in time and celebrate Bodmin Railway's rich china clay heritage at the China Clay Gala. Children can travel all day for just £5, and they'll love the free activity sheets and clay modelling sessions designed to spark their creativity. This event is a mixed-traction event with engines in steam and Bodmin’s diesel home fleet all in action. Over the weekend, you’ll have the chance to witness some impressive loco motives including a top-and-tail train and double headed train. And see Class 47306 will be hauling a variety of sets including a goods train, the passenger service set and also the CDA wagons. Cab rides will be available at an extra cost of £30. There will also be the opportunity to ride behind Bagnail 0-4-0 Saddle Tank No2572 in their seated clay wagon. Don’t forget to take advantage of the workshop tours, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at ongoing locomotive overhauls, current projects, and a sneak peek inside the workshop.

The Lost Garden of Heligan events

Experience Heligan like never before with their summer events. From guided foraging walks to seasonal suppers made with Heligan's own produce.

Sunrise Sessions 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th September Wake up with Heligan with their Sunrise sessions offering you the opportunity to wander through the beautiful gardens and ancient Estate in the peaceful early morning. Watch the sun rise over St Austell Bay from the Northern Summerhouse, with only the sound of birdsong to accompany you. It’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and soak in the calm before the day begins.

Awenek! The Great Cornish Heritage Festival 8th September Celebrate Cornish heritage and tradition at Heligan with Awenek, a one day festival packed with hands-on activities, demonstrations, re-enactments and performances showcasing everything that makes Cornwall special. Throughout the festival you’ll have the opportunity to try your hand at Cornish wrestling, explore an Early Medieval encampment or see the endangered craft of Cornish hedging in action. After a day full of action, sit back and listen to Ed Rowe, “The Kernow King”, regale you with stories of Cornish heroes and heroines. Then end the day cheering on Heligan’s Cornish warriors as they take part in an exciting battle to bring the festival to an end.

Heligan Working Horse Weekend 14th – 15th September 10.30am – 4pm Celebrate the past, present and future of working horses and all of Heligan’s unique and wonderful breeds during their Working Horse Weekend. Get up close to these magnificent animals during a meet-and-greet session and watch them in action as they demonstrate their strength and skill across the Heligan estate.

At The Barn, AWCF Farrier Rob Bankbrook will showcase traditional blacksmithing techniques, offering a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship behind horseshoes. Don’t miss the highlight of the event—the Concours d’Elegance ride, where horses and riders will gracefully parade around the estate, offering a beautiful display of tradition and elegance.

Garden and Estate Foraging Walks 26th September Join Heligan’s expert forager, Emma Gunn, for an insightful walk around the garden and estate, where you'll explore the abundance of Heligan’s hedgerows and natural habitats. Learn how to identify and use a wide range of edible plants, from crafting recipes to understanding their healing properties, while also gaining knowledge on toxic lookalikes and sustainable foraging practices. The walk concludes at the estate's Learning Den, where you can sample foraged snacks and ask Emma all your questions about harvesting and eating from the wild.

Cotehele Apple Weekender

14th & 15th september.

This autumn, celebrate all things apple at National Trust Cotehele’s Apple Weekender event. Taking place on 14 & 15 September, with pick your own apples running until 22 September, visitors can take part in an array of apple themed festivities in Cotehele’s Mother Orchard of rare and special trees.

Activities on offer include orchard tours, seeing the amazing cider press in action, apple tasting and pick your own. Visitors can also watch out for something special making an appearance on the grass circle in front of the house at Cotehele.

Cotehele’s seven orchards cover approximately 15 acres and the trees planted over the last ten years were specially chosen because they are local varieties and are adapted to the growing conditions in the south west. The Mother Orchard alone homes 125 different types of apple tree, each with its own distinctive flavour and character.

The Cotehele garden team propagate from the trees and visitors can return for ‘Grafting Days’ in February and learn how to grow a tree which will produce their favourite apples from the tastings on the apple weekend.

Old Time Sailors at Trebah

10th September Step back into the 19th century with a lively evening of music at Trebah Garden , as Old Time Sailors bring their nautical performances to life. The stage set is designed to transport you inside a 19th century vessel while the crew of seventeen musicians will be playing entirely unplugged to ensure the most authentic experience. Each audience member will receive a copy of the Sunday Sailor, a newspaper-style program with lyrics to over thirty traditional sailor songs and tunes, inviting everyone to sing along and truly feel like a sailor for the night.

The Alverton’s Ruby Anniversary Weekend

The Alverton are inviting all long-time patrons and new visitors alike to celebrate The Alverton’s 40th anniversary during their Ruby Anniversary Weekend. Indulge in their special Alverton Afternoon Tea with a Ruby twist, available until 1st December, or dress to impress at The Ruby Ball on Saturday, 7th September. Held in The Great Hall, tickets for the ball are £75 per person and include an arrival cocktail, strawberries and chocolate fountain, a four-course dinner, and live music. Share your Alverton memories with fellow guests as you dine at shared tables.

Redruth International Mining and Pasty Festival

20th – 22nd September Whether you’re a visitor looking to delve into Cornish culture, or have mining connections and would like to pay tribute to hardworking men and women who shaped Cornwall's rich industrial past, this event provides a special opportunity to connect with history.

The event kicks off with Miner’s Day on Friday 20th September at 4 pm, featuring an organised walk from the Miner statue in Redruth Town to Wheal Uny, where two chimney stacks will be smoked in honour of miners in Cornwall and around the world. Led by Will and Hetty from Cobweb Tours, along with the Redruth Festival Band, this walk offers a tribute to Cornwall’s mining heritage, though the uneven terrain means suitable footwear is recommended and may not be accessible to those with a disability.

Throughout the weekend, expect plenty of storytelling, workshops, and interactive stalls that celebrate Cornwall’s mining legacy. Saturday 21st September, known as Pasty Day, will see the streets of Redruth come alive with pasty competitions, live music, and an array of cultural performances, all in honour of the miners before us along with the beloved Cornish pasty.

The celebration concludes with the Mining Pilgrimage Festival on Sunday 22nd September, beginning with a procession at 10 a.m. from Wheal Basset Stamp House to Wheal Uny Engine House, followed by the formal service at 11:30 a.m. at St Euny Church.

A Doggy Summer Fete

8th September The highlight of the month for dogs and their owners, A Doggy Summer Fete by Miss Ivy Events brings an activity-packed day dedicated to all things canine.

Dogs can enjoy an action-packed day with have-a-go agility courses, scurries, scent games, cani-cross, and more. It’s a chance for them to let loose, have fun, and maybe even learn a new trick or two! Also taking place include activities to help supported charities raise funds including a Charity Dog Show, where all proceeds will be donated to Gables Dog and Cats Home.

Every ticket includes a special treat for your dog – a puppachino and biscuit from Wags Café – ensuring they’re pampered and well-fed throughout the day. And of course, there’s plenty for the humans to enjoy, too. Indulge in street food while browsing over 20 exhibitors offering everything from leads and toys to treats and pet services.

Your weekly dose of Cornish cheer!

When you can’t be in your favourite place all the time, catch up on the latest stories, upcoming events, holiday ideas, and offers with a newsletter straight to your inbox. Terms and Conditions / GDPR compliance: by providing personally identifiable information Visit Cornwall will use it to provide you with ongoing information about their products and services. No one from Visit Cornwall will rent, sell or lease this personally identifiable information to other companies or individuals.

Stay connected

Find us on socials and stay connected with the Cornwall you love.

We use cookies to personalise content and ads and to analyse our traffic. You consent to our cookies if you continue to use our website. ( Privacy Policy )