Cornwall Attractions
Cornish Towns
South Coast
Falmouth: Falmouth has developed as a port for over 400 years and today it is full of specialist stores, harbour-side restaurants, galleries and family attractions such as the National Maritime Museum and Pendennis Castle.
Mevagissey: This quaint Cornish fishing village is situated just over 10 miles from Fowey. Stroll through narrow alleyways whilst browsing gift shops and galleries. This attractive town was once the centre of Cornwall’s pilchard fishery and it still boasts a working harbour today.
St Mawes: This pretty village looks across Falmouth Harbour to Pendennis Castle. The sheltered anchorage is home to a fleet of small boats, and is a popular yachting centre. There are two good, but small beaches, one each side of the harbour. The old fishing village has steep and narrow streets, good restaurants, attractive shops and a number of galleries.
North Coast
Padstow:Padstow is located on the north coast of Cornwall and is most famously known for the presence of the celebrity chef Rick Stein, where he has a number of establishments, including a seafood restaurant, deli and fish and chip takeaway.
For a bit of fun try the Camel Trail which was a former tram line and now a cycle route which runs through the towns of Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow.
Port Isaac:An inspiration for artists, writers and poets for centuries. This is one of the most beautiful and un-spoilt parts of Cornwall. A coastline of rugged cliffs and secluded coves, that can be explored from the coastal footpaths.
St Ives:St Ives is one of the most stunning towns in Cornwall. The whole peninsula offers a haven for walkers, photographers, artists and writers giving inspiration through beautiful scenery. It has enticed artists such as Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson and is home to the Tate Gallery which opened its doors in 1993.
Wadebridge: One of North Cornwall’s main market towns and gateway to the Camel Trail, now the third largest attraction in the whole of Cornwall. This centrally located town has much to offer visitors of all interests all year round.
Cornish Gardens
The Lost Gardens of Heligan: The Lost Gardens of Heligan are magnificent gardens that are situated in Mevagissey near St Austell and offer over 200 acres of exploration. These diverse gardens include Victorian gardens, ancient woodland and a lush sub-tropical jungle.
Eden Project:One of the most famous gardens in the UK, The Eden Project is definitely worth a visit. The Rainforest Biome takes you on a journey through the rainforests of Malaysia, West Africa and South America and the Mediterranean Biome takes you across the equator to South Africa and onto experience the Californian landscape. The Eden Project also has an Education Centre and has recently emerged as being top musical venue hosting a range of renowned artists and bands.
Lanhydrock House and Gardens: Lanhydrock House and Gardens is one of the most beautiful National Trust properties in Cornwall. Set within 1,000 acres of wooded parkland and landscaped gardens, it can be enjoyed all year round.
Caerhays Castle and Gardens:The 100 acre woodland gardens at Caerhays Castle are English Heritage listed Grade II. The origin of this historically important collection of Chinese plants can be traced back to the work of the great plant hunters Ernest Wilson and George Forrest.
Cornish Attractions
Minack Theatre:The Minack Theatre is a world famous open air theatre located right on the coastline of Porthcurno Bay with fantastic sea views. It’s even open all year round.
National Seal Sanctuary: Located on the Helford Estuary by the village of Gweek lies the National Seal Sanctuary. The Seal Sanctuary opened in 1958 and over the years hundreds of seals have been rescued.
Dairy Land:Situated in Newquay, Dairy Land has a host of things to do. Children can enjoy visiting the large number of animals, ride the ponies and even have the chance to milk the cows! There is also an adventure playground and a nature trail to keep them occupied.
Crealy Adventure Park:Crealy Adventure Park is the perfect day out for the family. There are a number of wild rides and mythical adventures to keep all the family entertained. If the weather turns miserable there are two huge indoor play areas. There is even a Toddler Zone for the little ones.