Things to Do in Cornwall: A Complete Travel Guide

May 17, 2022

Cornwall, located in the southwestern tip of England, is famous for its stunning coastline, charming villages, and rich history. Whether you love beaches, adventure, history, or food, Cornwall offers something for every traveler. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Cornwall.

Explore St Ives and Its Beaches

St Ives is one of Cornwall’s most popular towns, known for its art scene, golden beaches, and narrow streets.

Porthmeor Beach – Perfect for surfing or sunbathing.
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden – Explore the works of the famous modernist artist.
St Ives Harbour – Enjoy seafood by the water or take a harbor walk.

Visit Land’s End

Land’s End is the westernmost point of mainland England, offering breathtaking cliffs and ocean views. It’s an iconic spot for photos and dramatic sunsets. Nearby, you can also find walking trails along the coastline.

Discover Tintagel Castle

Famous for its links to King Arthur, Tintagel Castle sits on dramatic cliffs with views over the Atlantic. Explore the ruins, the Merlin’s Cave below, and imagine the legends of Camelot come to life.

Wander Around Falmouth

Falmouth is a lively town with beautiful beaches and a maritime history.

National Maritime Museum Cornwall – Learn about seafaring and maritime history.
Pendennis Castle – A historic fortress with stunning sea views.
Gyllyngvase Beach – Ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Hike the South West Coast Path

Cornwall has over 600 miles of walking trails along its coastline. The South West Coast Path offers incredible cliff views, hidden coves, and scenic walks. Some popular sections include St Ives to Zennor and Padstow to Rock.

Explore Minack Theatre

The Minack Theatre is an open-air theater carved into granite cliffs near Porthcurno. Watch a play or simply admire the stunning location overlooking the ocean.

Visit the Eden Project

The Eden Project near St Austell is a must-visit for nature and plant lovers. Its giant biomes house plants from around the world, and there are walking trails, exhibitions, and seasonal events.

Experience Padstow and Its Food Scene

Padstow is a charming fishing village famous for its seafood and local delicacies. Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant is popular, but there are also many small cafes and bakeries to enjoy local Cornish treats.

Discover Hidden Coves and Beaches

Cornwall has hundreds of beautiful beaches, many hidden and less crowded. Some favorites:

Kynance Cove – Dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters.
Porthcurno Beach – White sand with calm waves.
Sennen Cove – Popular for surfing and sunsets.

Explore Bodmin Moor

For inland adventure, Bodmin Moor offers rugged landscapes, historic sites, and walking trails. Highlights include Jamaica Inn, a historic coaching inn linked to smuggling, and the Dozmary Pool, tied to King Arthur legends.

Visit Lizard Peninsula

The Lizard Peninsula is Cornwall’s southernmost point. Explore dramatic cliffs, quaint villages like Kynance Cove, and enjoy wildlife spotting along the coast.

Enjoy Adventure Activities

Cornwall is perfect for outdoor sports:

Surfing – Especially at Newquay and Fistral Beach.
Coasteering – Climbing, swimming, and jumping off cliffs.
Kayaking – Explore hidden coves and sea caves.
Cycling – Scenic coastal and countryside routes.

Final Thought

At The Tourists World, we believe Cornwall is a destination where nature, history, and adventure come together. From exploring ancient castles and rugged cliffs to relaxing on golden beaches and sampling local seafood, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cornwall. With careful planning and curiosity, every visit can be memorable and full of discovery.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Cornwall?
Late spring to early autumn (May–September) is ideal for good weather and outdoor activities.

2. Are there family-friendly activities in Cornwall?
Yes, attractions like the Eden Project, beaches, and boat trips are perfect for families.

3. Can you surf in Cornwall?
Absolutely. Newquay and Fistral Beach are popular surf spots for beginners and pros alike.

4. How do I get around Cornwall?
You can rent a car, use buses, or take trains between major towns. For remote areas, a car is the most convenient.

5. Is Cornwall expensive to visit?
It can be, but staying outside tourist hotspots and visiting free attractions like beaches, cliffs, and walking trails can make it budget-friendly.

Travel