Cornwall is a county shrouded in myth, magic and legend, that even has its own language, and it is entirely fair to say there is nowhere else in the world quite like it – and for UK holidays, it really cannot be beaten.
From its stunning coastline, the longest of any British county at 422 miles, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and sandy seashores, to its picture-perfect villages, and bustling towns, it has something to offer every visitor of every age, whether you are looking for a traditional seaside holiday with children, with plenty to do and attractions to visit, or a romantic couple's getaway, full of long walks on vast, windswept beaches, intimate dinners, and luxury accommodation.
It’s no surprise that Cornwall and its landscapes have inspired artists and writers for centuries; author Winston Graham based his 12 Poldark novels in the county, while Daphne Du Maurier’s Frenchman’s Creek, Rebecca, and Jamaica Inn are all set in memorable Cornish locations. Meanwhile, the world-renowned sculptor Barbara Hepworth’s home and gallery, Trewyn studios, which she occupied from 1949 until her death in 1975, is now the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden visitor attraction in St Ives.
Founded in 1818, the award-winning Royal Cornwall Museum at Truro is an essential stop-off for visitors and brings the county alive through its Cornish art and culture exhibitions, as well as one-off workshops and events throughout the year.
But Cornwall isn’t all about history; it’s a popular destination for surfers, with its north coast boasting many popular surfing beaches including Fistral Beach at Newquay, St Agnes and Chapel Porth.
And as a foodie destination, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place for fish and seafood restaurants, with Michelin-starred eateries and big-name chefs in abundance. Not forgetting of course those famous Cornish pasties and clotted cream afternoon teas!
With areas of outstanding natural beauty such as the Camel Estuary and Bodmin Moor, the latter with its acres of ancient woodlands, waterfalls and granite peaks, through to hip and happening seaside towns like Rock, and quaint fishing village including Mousehole and Port Issaac, there is a wealth of diverse and contrasting experiences and scenery on offer across the whole county. And that’s even before you’ve encountered the mystical town of Tintagel, home to Tintagel Castle, and the legend of King Arthur...
5 places to visit in Cornwall in 2024
The Eden Project
Since it opened in 2001, the Eden Project global garden has been a must-do day out for visitors to Cornwall. Built on a former clay pit, the attraction consists of a series of eco domes providing diverse growing conditions, including a rainforest biome with tropical plants, and a Mediterranean biome, featuring olive and grape vines.
edenproject.com
St Michael’s Mount
No visit to Cornwall is complete without a trip to the castle and gardens on St Michael’s Mount, off the coast at Marazion. Access the mount on foot via a cobbled causeway (dependent on the tide) or by boat. Admittance to the island and castle is by ticket or National Trust membership.
stmichaelsmount.co.uk
Geevor Tin Mine
There’s no better place to discover the fascinating story of Cornwall’s tin mining history that at one of its mining museums, and the award-winning heritage centre at Geevor on the west coast makes for a fun and educational day out for the entire family, in a glorious clifftop setting.
geevor.com
The Minack Theatre
Built high on the granite cliffs of Porthcurro, 4 miles from Land's End, and with spectacular views out to the sea and the surrounding rugged coastline, the dramatic setting of the open-air Minack Theatre is a breathtaking place to visit whether or not you are attending a production. Check the website for forthcoming performances.
minack.com
St Ives
Culture vultures will appreciate a visit to the seaside resort of St Ives, with its many galleries and thriving local arts scene. A beautiful beach, picturesque harbour and plethora of independent shops and restaurants make it a charming location for a day trip, or the perfect base for your entire staycation.
This article appeared in the Great British Staycations magazine.
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