The Cornwall Handbook

Things to do in Cornwall in the rain

Don't let the wet weather stop you from exploring - there are some fantastic attractions and things to do on a rainy day in Cornwall!

Beautiful rivers of Cornwall

Whether it’s kayaking, boat trips, walking or stand-up paddleboarding, there’s a river in Cornwall to suit you.

Where to find the best cycling routes in Cornwall

See the sights and enjoy fun-filled days out on two wheels. Discover a range of routes suitable for all ages and abilities.

Beautiful islands off Cornwall that you can visit

Teeming with incredible wildlife and beautiful flora and fauna, allow these stunning islands tempt you on your stay in Cornwall.

Water babies of the UK: The most popular water sports revealed

How many of the UK’s top watersports have you tried? We put this question to the Great British public, and here are the results!

Cornwall water sports to try

Try a new skill or nurture a hobby and take to the waters of Cornwall for plenty of water sport fun and adventure.

Where to go wild swimming in Cornwall

A well-being trend that is popular with adrenaline junkies, families and adventurers alike. Uncover some of the best coastal and inland spots to go wild swimming.

The best spots to go kayaking in Cornwall

A fantastic way to explore the Cornish coast! Here are our favourite places in Cornwall for both river and sea kayaking.

Where to go coasteering in Cornwall

Embark on the ultimate adventure along the Cornish coast with one of these fantastic unique experiences. Discover the best coasteering spots for all ages!

The best kitesurfing spots in Cornwall

A popular activity for water sports lovers and thrill-seekers in Cornwall, here are some of the most popular kitesurfing spots...

The best places to go paddleboarding in Cornwall

A dream destination for SUP lovers, we’ve uncovered some of the most beautiful paddleboarding spots...

10 things to do in Cornwall in winter

Winter is a good of a time as any to explore Cornwall. Uncover the magic of visiting out of season with these inspiring winter activity ideas...

Romantic things to do in Cornwall

With its breathtaking scenery, slower pace of life and relaxed atmosphere that feels a world away from the everyday, Cornwall is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway, if only for a dreamy long weekend. Wake up to the sound of the waves, enjoy breakfast in bed and visit some of the county’s most idyllic spots together.

Days out for kids in Cornwall

With half term just around the corner, you might be thinking about treating your family to an exciting getaway, so we’ve put together a list of some of the best days out for kids in Cornwall that will make the most of the warmer weather and longer days.

The ultimate guide to Cornwall's parkruns

Pack your trainers - parkruns are the perfect way to keep fit while getting closer to the Cornwall's beautiful landscape.

Things to do in Cornwall

Learn to live like a local on your next visit to Cornwall.

Things to do in Mawgan Porth

Escape to this Cornish coastal gem for a beach getaway to remember. Known for the hug swathes of sand that line this coast and the epic crashing waves – perfect for surfing – Mawgan Porth is ideal for a family-friendly holiday, a couple’s retreat or even a big group getaway to North Cornwall. Start browsing through our holiday cottages in this beautiful corner of Cornwall and discover the perfect holiday cottage in Mawgan Porth today.

Things to do in Callington

Callington is a pleasant town in South Cornwall situated 6 miles from the Tamar Valley AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and 14 miles north of the naval city of Plymouth. Once associated with the Cornish tin mining industry, nowadays it’s a sleepy hub for the surrounding villages. Callington is very much a handy base for wayfarers that plan to wade

Things to do in St Austell

St Austell is a lovely town close to the south coast of Cornwall. With a new and improved town centre it is a great location for visitors as popular visitor attractions such as the Eden Project, Charlestown, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Mevagissey, Fowey and some wonderful beaches are all close by. It’s a superb choice of holiday destination if you wish to have an authentic Cornish experience. You don’t have to look very far for excellent facilities and a wide variety of places to eat, from fine dining options to high street favourites.

Things to do in Looe

This beautiful coastal town of Looe is all about peace and tranquillity. Relax down on the summer sand or tred the coastal trails on bracing winter walks, drop by family-friendly attractions dotted along the south Cornish coast, then grab a bag of fish and chips from one of the local eateries before enjoying them back at your cosy cottage or down by the seafront.

The Best Zoos in Cornwall

Go wild at some of the best zoos and wildlife parks and sanctuaries in Cornwall!

Things to do in the Isles of Scilly

An archipelago off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly are a gentle alternative for a holiday abroad. With beaches that are almost tropical in appearance, a fascinating history and a myriad of events throughout the year, the Scilly Isles makes a superb destination for a holiday.

Things to do in Land's End

Land’s End is not a town or village, there are no houses. It’s based on the site of a couple of farmsteads but nowadays it is a top visitor attraction that consists of some cool amusements and a variety of places to eat. The nearest towns and villages are St Just and Sennen, along with Penwith’s largest settlement, Penzance, that lies 9.5 miles away.

Things to do in Penzance

Uncover a bit of Cornish history in the mines and enjoy fish and chips down on the seafront during a trip to Penzance. This coastal seaside gem in West Cornwall is overflowing with glistening beaches, fun attractions and winding walks.

Things to do in Sennen

Our guide to things to do in Sennen explains all you need to know about this charming location. This village and cove is known for its excellent walking and surfing beaches as well as being just a few miles from the iconic landmark of Land's End.

Things to do in Portreath

Portreath is a hidden gem of a village tucked into the North Cornwall Coast. It lies 4 miles south of Porthtowan and 4.5 miles from Redruth inland. It’s a quiet haven away from busier resorts across the Duchy, but it still has many handy amenities, including a few pubs and shops for visitors without making it feel overly commercialised. The beach is wide, sandy and popular with bodybo

Things to do in Porthleven

Looking for a quintessential Cornish village, with a working harbour and amazing traditional coastal pubs and restaurants? Then Porthleven in Mount's Bay, Cornwall is the one for you - read on to find out more.

Things to do in Tintagel

Tintagel is an Atlantic Ocean facing village in North Cornwall. It has been a seaside resort since the late 19th century thanks to the presence of Tintagel Castle and a resurgence of interest in the Legend of King Arthur around the time. Today, the castle ruins make the village one of the most visited places in the UK, with around 230,000 visitors per yea

Things to do in Hayle

Situated where the River Hayle meets the Atlantic Ocean in West Cornwall, Hayle is a town rich in history and natural beauty.

The best gardens in Cornwall

Get lost in the natural paradise of Cornwall's fine gardens.

Things to do in Lizard

Our guide to things to do in Lizard explains all you need to know about this rugged yet beautiful location. Miles of coastal walking, hidden coves and pretty bays make this southern peninsula in West Cornwall a walker's dream.

Top things to do in North Cornwall

The legendary home of King Arthur, North Cornwall is defined by its dramatic coastline, wild moorland, booming culinary culture, outdoor activities and thrilling attractions. From historic houses to steam railways and theme parks to zoos, there are some brilliant days out. Here are the top things to do in North Cornwall which we think simply cannot be missed!

Where to see dolphins in Cornwall

Cornwall is a haven for wildlife watchers, where the diverse landscape of countryside and coast is home to many creatures.

Things to do in Rock

A popular sailing destination on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, Rock is home to some fabulous sandy beaches as well as amazing coastal walking, water sports and cycle routes.

Things to do in St Mawes

Discover the beautiful coastal town of St Mawes out on the remote Roseland Peninsula. With views across to Falmouth and stunning walking routes and beaches, this lovely destination is the perfect place to retreat to for peace and tranquillity. Stay in one of our holiday cottages in St Mawes for a relaxing getaway in Cornwall.

Things to do in Praa Sands

A popular surfing destination on the beautiful south coast of Cornwall, Praa Sands is home to a fabulous white sandy beach as well as amazing coastal walking, water sports and excellent seafood restaurants

Breweries and distilleries to visit in Cornwall

When visiting the Cornish coast and countryside, a brewery or distillery tour should definitely make the short list of things to do during your stay.

Ultimate summer bucket list: The Cornwall edition

From surfing the fantastic waves that roll off the Atlantic to exploring the exotic Eden Project to tasting the iconic Cornish pasty, we’ve put together your ultimate summer bucket list. You may never be finished exploring all the fantastic attractions and natural places in Cornwall but your can give it a try.

Things to do in Liskeard

Situated in the heart of South East Cornwall at the head of the scenic Looe Valley, the ancient stannary market town of Liskeard is enveloped in natural beauty. The vast rugged expanse of Bodmin Moor with its intriguing rock formations and mining heritage lies to the north, while the pristine sands, secluded coves and quaint fishing villages of the Polperro Heritage Coast lie to the south.

Things to do in Port Isaac

An enchanting little village on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, Port Isaac is home to Doc Martin, the endearingly named 'squeezy belly alley' and a maze of narrow streets inviting you to explore.

Things to do in Newquay

A popular surfing destination on the rugged north coast of Cornwall, Newquay is home to some fabulous sandy beaches as well as amazing coastal walking, fun family attractions and fabulous festivals.

Things to do in St Neot

Sheltering in a valley on the edge of Bodmin Moor within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, St Neot is one of South Cornwall’s prettiest villages. It is perfectly located for exploring the beaches and fishing villages on the north and south coasts of Cornwall (within 20 miles), as well as the neighbouring moorlands which offer spectacular walking opportunities. Read on to find out why we think St Neot is so special and discover a few local secrets to help you make the most of your stay.

The 20 best attractions in Cornwall

Discover the best of the South West with our guide to the top 20 Cornwall attractions. From natural landmarks including fairytale castles perched atop tidal islands and those of Arthurian legend, to miniature steam railways and attraction parks for all the family, Cornwall has something for everyone.

Things to do in Charlestown

A popular coastal destination on the south coast of Cornwall, Charlestown is home to the famous tall ships, sandy beaches as well as amazing coastal walking and fun family attractions. The Shipwreck museum has the largest private collection of shipwreck artefacts in Europe and the resident ship Kisjamoor offers tours into the history and working past of the Cornwall coast.

Things to do in Launceston

With family-friendly attractions, cosy pubs and their otter wildlife sanctuary, Launceston in the heart of Cornwall is a wonderful place for a South West escape. Roam across Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor or venture up to the North Cornwall coast; there’s plenty of fun things to do all around this market town.

Things to do in Helston

Escape to Helston down on Cornwall’s west coast, just 2.5 miles from a sandy beach. With miles of sandy shoreline nearby and a range of great attractions including a castle, sanctuary and theme park, this town has everything you need to ensure you have a fun time on your UK staycation.

5 best experiences in Cornwall

The countdown is on. Your dream holiday to the golden sands and turquoise waters of Cornwall is booked! Now that you’ve chosen one of our holiday cottages, hotels, B&Bs or holiday parks, it will soon be time to start packing and getting those last-minute essentials together.

Things to do in Mullion

Situated on the Lizard Peninsula, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the seaside village of Mullion enjoys one of Cornwall’s most impressive landscapes. Wander the breathtaking South West Coast Path and admire the dramatic cliffs shaped by the Atlantic Ocean, lay out a picnic blanket on one of the sandy beaches, try your hand at fishing or some water sports, and dine out on fresh, local seafood in one of the fantastic restaurants. Discover some of our favourite places which make this village so unique with our local’s guide to Mullion.

Things to do in Polperro

Everything you might expect of an idyllic old fishing village. Cottages cling to the cliffs, fish and chips shops are dotted throughout the village and the harbour has shallow turquoise waters, perfect for paddling.

Things to do in Penryn

Steeped in history, the charming town of Penryn is a fantastic choice for your next Cornish holiday. Quieter than its famous neighbour, Falmouth, there is a labyrinth of olde-worlde cobbled streets to explore, beautiful scenery to take in, a thriving art community to discover and friendly locals to meet. Discover some of our favourite places which make this town so unique with our local’s guide to Penryn.

Things to do in Saltash

Saltash is generally the first and last place you encounter on a trip to Cornwall; being located on the western banks of the River Tamar it is found right on the county’s natural border with Devon.

Things to do in Camborne

Surrounded by historic tin mines, windswept moors, sandy beaches and some of the county's finest scenery, the lively Cornish town of Camborne provides an excellent base from which to discover West Cornwall. Discover some of the fascinating places which make this bustling town so unique with our local’s guide to Camborne.

Things to do in Marazion

The perfect viewpoint for St Michael's Mount, Marazion is the ideal Cornish coastal escape. This welcoming town is the perfect base to spend long lazy summer days on the sands and crisp winter days enjoying the spectacular countryside and wonderful wildlife.

Things to do in Fowey

Perched on the estuary, opposite the pretty village of Polruan, you’ll discover Fowey – a town with a mix of stylish cafes and old-fashioned fisherman’s cottages.

Things to do in Torpoint

At the northern end of the Rame Peninsula (a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), the bustling town of Torpoint offers excellent views of the River Tamar and across the water to the bright lights of Plymouth. Known as the gateway to Cornwall, it provides an ideal base for holidaymakers wishing to explore both South Cornwall and Devon.

Things to do in Millbrook

Right in the midst of the breathtaking Rame Peninsula sits this unassuming village. You’ll be impressed by its huge, glassy lake, acres of parkland, and proximity to the seaside.

Things to do in Coverack

The pretty fishing village of Coverack is a dream destination. With a stone-walled harbour and a crescent-shaped shingle and sand bay, it makes the perfect holiday for all the family.

Things to do in Wadebridge

Only 8 miles from the coast, Wadebridge is the perfect base from which to enjoy Cornwall’s stunning beaches. The town boasts Cornwall’s highest number of independent shops and boutiques and offers a wide array of eateries.

Things to do in Falmouth

A vibrant market town on the pretty west coast of Cornwall, Falmouth is home to some fascinating maritime history, as well as being an up-and-coming foodie destination.

The Top Things to do in Cornwall

Cornwall is one of the most diverse counties in the whole of the UK with everything ranging from fantastic beaches all the way to the most modern of tourist attractions. Our guide to things to do in the county covers all grounds, from beaches, to attractions, via the history.

Things to do in Lostwithiel

Lostwithiel in South Cornwall is an ancient stannary town with its own impressive circular castle and medieval history. Close to the delightful Polperro Heritage Coast, it is the perfect location for lovers of both coast and country.

Things to do in Boscastle

Nestled in the crook of a steep valley at the confluence of three rivers, Boscastle is an unspoilt fishing village on the dramatic North Cornwall coast. The historic, natural harbour sits in an impressive amphitheatre of steep flower-clad cliffs and is home to quaint stone-built cottages with higgledy-piggledy rooftops, gently trickling streams and a collection of shops and tearooms – it’s impossibly photogenic.

Things to do in Bodmin

A popular holiday spot due to its endless walking and cycling possibilities across Bodmin Moor and The Tamar Valley, Bodmin is the perfect choice for a stay in Cornwall.

Things to do in Crackington Haven

What makes the tiny coastal village of Crackington Haven so special? It might be the remarkable views, the unique geology, or the tasty food down at the beachfront cafe.

Things to do in Polzeath

Tucked away behind a headland off the Camel River Estuary is Polzeath, a beautiful lesser-known surfing village and beach. Under 2 miles from the affluent village of Rock, this secluded spot is a great choice for a couple’s break away from the crowds and for those that would like to learn how to surf.

Where to see the stars in Cornwall

Cornwall is one of the best holiday destinations in the UK for night sky watching whether or not you know your Frying Pan from your Cassiopeia. Every living thing on Earth must have gazed up at the night sky in quiet wonderment at least once.

A Christmas brain teaser

Can you find the missing turkeys in our Christmas party scene? Most people take between three and four minutes to locate the precious poultry, so be sure to pay close attention and you just might be able to solve the puzzle in a quick time!

Things to do in Mevagissey

A sleepy fishing village on the Cornish coast, Mevagissey is a peaceful retreat with a host of surprising attractions and things to do in the local area. The coast is lined with sandy beaches, quaint walks criss-cross the region and The Lost Gardens of Heligan is a must-visit during your holiday to Cornwall. Once you've investigated this beautiful village, take a look through our excellent selection of holiday cottages to find the perfect place to stay during your trip. It's a wonderful location and people return year-on-year because of the peaceful vibe, just right when you are looking for a holiday escape.

Best places in Cornwall to go in winter

A trip down to the South West out of season is not as unusual as you may think. In fact, contrary to popular belief, a lot of places stay open all year round – after all, the locals still need entertaining! The pros for venturing to Cornwall far outweigh the cons, and even if the weather is chilly, it’s (on average) warmer than anywhere else in England! Here's why you should visit this winter...

Things to do in Padstow

Our local's guide to Padstow explains all you need to know about this charming location. Th is fishing town is known as the foodie capital of Cornwall and has established itself as one of the region’s premiere holiday resorts.

Things to do in Polruan

An ancient fishing village with a long history of boat building, Polruan is situated on the Polperro Heritage Coast. This village in South Cornwall has a distinct charm about it with many old buildings along the quay.

The best walking holidays in Cornwall

For people looking to soak up stunning scenery, discover breathtaking locations and admire the regions natural beauty, walking holidays in Cornwall provide a great escape for people of all ages. Whether you are very active and love a challenge or prefer a gentle ramble, there are plenty of trails and routes to explore for all abilities. Cornwall offers a delightful range of walking experiences.

The best pub walks in Cornwall

It's always a great time to enjoy the delights of a spectacular walk in the countryside or a beautiful coastal location. The whole family can get together and embrace captivating scenery, interesting trails, and as a treat indulge in some great pub food along some of the best pub walks in Cornwall. We've picked our top pub walks around the region to taste some of the best grub paired with the most scenic walks.

Awesome extreme sports in Cornwall

Cornwall is well-renowned as a tranquil holiday location, offering a wonderfully diverse mix of stunning coastal and countryside locations. However, it has also garnered a reputation as one of the most thrilling areas of the UK to visit due to the wide range of outdoor pursuits and adventure activities available throughout the county. Here is our run-down of the best extreme sports in Cornwall.

Things to do on New Year's Day

After a few weeks of indulgences and festivities, it’s a great time to start thinking about the year ahead. Whether you are visiting the area for the day or have enjoyed a winter break in the region, there are plenty of things to do on New Year’s Day that will give you a refreshing start in 2019. Take a look at our top picks for things to do on New Year’s Day for the whole family.

Top five places to visit in Cornwall

Cornwall is always a favourite when it comes to holidaying in the South West. There are many locations around the region that provide the ultimate holiday experience including exquisite coastal spots, quaint rural retreats, and pretty harbour hideaways. It's not surprising that every year Cornwall's top destinations include some of the best locations to soak up the sunshine and hit the surf.

Things to do in Perranporth

It’s not just the postcard-worthy beach which makes Perranporth an ideal destination for a Cornwall holiday, but its enviable location is close to everything the county has to offer. From the buzz and beaches of Newquay, to the boutiques of St Ives, via the delights of the south coast, including spirited Falmouth and the quaint villages of the Roseland Peninsula, Perranporth isn’t far from anywhere.

Fantastic free things to do in Cornwall

Always a popular choice in the summer holidays, Cornwall provides one of the best family holiday choices in the UK. The county offers a variety of things that keep the family entertained including fun attractions, cultural heritage sites, and lots of beaches for plenty of summer amusement. Cornwall provides an affordable option for families looking for a staycation.

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