The Ultimate Cornish Guide and the Best Places to Visit in Cornwall
Top Things to do in Cornwall whilst enjoying the Cornish Seaside
Cornwall is a region of Southern England made up of sweeping sandy beaches, rugged landscapes, seaside fishing villages and excellent experiences suited to a wide variety of interests and outdoor activities.
Cornwall historic towns with old-world cobbled streets such as Truro and Marazion offer an array or wonderful boutique shops, wonderful and hearty restaurants to visit, and dramatic sites such as St Michaels Mount and Bodmin Jail to name only a few.
The Cornish landscape provides hundreds of gorgeous sandy beaches full of many rock pools to explore and beautiful countryside locations such as the Bodmin Moor, the St Agnus Heritage Coast and the Lizard Peninsula
The South West Coast Path runs along the whole Cornish Coastline covering a whopping 300 miles of stunning rugged coastline passing many Cornish Baus and old fishing villages dotted along the seaside.
Learn more about Cornwall!
Located within the far south west of Great Britain on a peninsula tumbling into the vast Atlantic, almost completely surrounded by the ocean, an impressive coastline wraps around Cornwall for pretty much 300 miles. Cornwall is additionally the location of mainland Great Britain’s most southerly point, The Lizard, and one among the UK’s most westerly points, Land’s End.
Why is it worth a visit?
There are many things Cornwall is loved for; the dramatic coastline, unique fishing harbours, spectacular sweeping beaches and great watersports that can take place due to the great surf that is provided, plus there is always the Cornish pasty and cream teas to be eaten.
But there also are many things about Cornwall which will surprise you. don’t forget to explore the wilderness of Bodmin Moor with its panorama skies, prehistoric remains and dolmens or see it great walking trails.
Cornwall has a dynamic art scene!
There’s also the dynamic art scene found in mainly in West Cornwall, inspired by the naturally stunning landscape.
See Cornwall’s world-class food scene!
Cornwall over the years has become known for a great food scene to rival London and beyond; Cornwall now features a multitude of award-winning local food producers and stellar chefs putting the region well and truly on the gourmet map.
See Cornwall’s History and culture!
Cornwall also incorporates a tremendous history supported its Celtic roots; its Celtic Cornish culture; charm and friendliness of the people; and also the Cornish language which will be seen within the village names.
Why not travel back in time and see the industrial heartland!
In the old industrial heartland, the landscape, recently awarded World Heritage Site status, is dotted with the fascinating remnants of a triumphant mining past illustrating Cornwall’s enormous contribution to the economic Revolution with engine houses, museums and miles of recreational trails. Be sure to check out sites like Towanroath mine shaft which is a great place for landscape photographing and creating some unique wall art and canvas prints.
See Cornwall’s coastline!
Around the coastline Cornwall’s maritime legacy isn’t distant where local fishermen land their daily catch of fresh seafood and tall ships, luggers and ketches unfurl their sails within the Cornish breeze. Be sure to check out our canvas prints of the cornish coast.
Cornwalls areas of natural beauty!
The natural environment in Cornwall is second to none and is recognised nationally, across Cornwall there are twelve AONB site for you to explore so pack your hiking boots and take your camera to capture some great landscape pictures for some wall art for your home.
Cornwall’s Dramatic Mines that dot the landscape — Crown Mines
We hope you find our Ultimate Cornish Guide and the Best Places to Visit on the Cornish Coast helpful — from places, things to see and places to stay
The Top Things to do when visiting Cornwall
If you visit Cornwall you will find countryside, stunning coastline, a vast array of mines that are rated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, shopping centres and various area’s ofoutstanding natural beauty.
This makes Cornwall a great location for families, couples, groups and business trips — accommodating whatever it is you’re looking to do during your stay.
There are attractions and activities all over Cornwall landscape making it a region with many great places to visit.
For the adrenaline junkies out there, Cornwall has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor activities. If you’re interested in climbing and water sports you can find ample opportunities to undertake these along the Cornish coastline and estuaries.
Cornwall is great for canoeing and kayaking as well as rock climbing, while horseback riding can be undertaken on one of the many golden sand beaches.
For those looking for a more relaxing time, why not visit the many miles of the Cornish South West Coast Path and explore the rugged beauty of the county either by foot or why not rent bikes or bring your own to take at your leisure without worrying about traffic.
We have a range of articles on things to See and Do whilst visiting Cornwall, from days out on in Truro or Newquay to Trips to the Cornish Coastline have a look at our following articles for ideas and tip for great things to do when visiting Cornwall.
SEE OUR GUIDES ON THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN CORNWALL
Great things to See & Do on When Visiting Cornwall
Top ten exciting things to see and do when visiting Cornwall — ranked! At the Southern End of Britain lies the coastal county of Cornwall with it stunning white sandy beaches and miles of coastline to explore
Top Places to see when Visiting Cornwall
Cornwall is perhaps one of the most picturesque places to visit in the UK, the reasons to visit Cornwall are almost endless. It’s known for itssuperb sandy beachesand quaint fishing villages that seem to have stood still in time, not to mention the beauty that nature has created with its dramatic cliffs, hills and sweeping coastline.
Cornwall has inspired many a story throughout world history due to its unique and pretty scenery and its industrial heritage, stories like BBC’s Poldark and the Pirates of Penzance have helped put Cornwall on the theatrical map.
Why not visit great sites like St Michaels Mount, Wheal Coates Mine, Poldark Mine, Lands End and Bedruthen Steps to name a few.
Once you have finished with the natural scenes Cornwall has to offer, why not visit the historic market town of Truro with its independent shops and see the spectacular Truro Cathedral or the Gothic Bodmin Jail.
We have a range of articles on places to visit in Cornwall, from days visiting the wonder of the Cornish Coastal Path to tips on visiting the best Cornwall Best Towns. Have a look at our following articles for ideas and tip for great places to visit in Cornwall.
SEE OUR GUIDE ON THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CORNWALL
Top 10 Seaside Villages to Visit in Cornwall
Stunning Seaside villages in Cornwall to visit for a great Cornish day out Cornwall without a doubt is a beautiful place full of quaint beach towns and stunning sweeping coastlines, see our article on the top 10 villages to visit on the Cornish Coast.
Interesting facts about Cornwall
- The Cornish Pasty- One of the best things about living by Cornwall apart from photographing its stunning coastline is simply indulging in one of their famous pasties.
- The back story for this mouth-watering dish dates back to when miners out on the job needed to keep their stomach full and heart happy but wanted a simple, easy-to-make meal that contained high protein and carbohydrates. So, Cornish pasties were born, with just enough crust to hold everything together while keeping all of the delicious fillings inside.
- The Cornish Pasty is special due to the crust on the side, this meant miners could hold the crust with their dirty hands and throw away the crust afterward keeping the main pasty clean, mining was a dangerous game with often lethal levels of arsenic and lithium found so this simple adaption made a huge difference.
- Beaches Galore- Cornwall is home to one of the longest coastlines in the UK, stretching for a total of 433 miles. The stunning coastline offers 300 secluded beaches with pristine white sands and glistening turquoise blue waters that would make anyone fall in love with Cornwall! Make sure you visit your nearest beach when traveling to Cornwall — it’s a must-do!
- Cornwall isn’t in England well technically- and the most interesting fact about Cornwall of them all has been that Cornish people, who are also known as ‘Kernowek’ in their native language, are not actually from England! They once had their own parliament around the 1300s and were highly regarded as an independent nation until the 1700s.
- The British Government still classifies Cornwall and its people as a ‘non-domestic’ territory even now, meaning it’s distinct from other regions within Great Britain just like Wales and Scotland.
- Cornish Tin has been around for over 4000 years and at Cornwall’s mining height 66% of the world’s copper and 50% of the world’s arsenic came from Cornwall in its total operation over 2 million tons of tin was produced.
- Kind Arthur was Cornish!- One of the most captivating features about Cornwall is the ancient history of the region. It’s popularly believed that King Arthur was born here in Tintagel. Amassed with many mysteries and stories, one of our favourite tales is that it was once believed that Arthur managed to harness supernatural protection from evil with the help of the brave sorcerer Merlin who lived below a castle on the cliff.
Great Cornish Places to Stay when visiting Cornwall
Top Hotels to stay at in Cornwall
For those wanting a taste of luxury when visiting Cornwall check out our list of the best six hotels to visit in the County.
1 The Scarlet Hotel, Mawgan Porth
The stunning Scarlet Hotel lies on the headland at Mawgan Porth Beach, and is the perfect place for a relaxing vacation. The Adult only hotel where children are not permitted, encourages a high level of eco-sustainability.
The fashionable hotel overlooking the ocean, which is part of the Bedruthen Hotel family resort, is a great place if you’re looking for peace, quiet and relaxation without kids running around.
When booking the Scarlet there are all the types of amenities one might think of when booking a spa retreat: gorgeous views of the ocean; reasonably priced food and salon services included in your stay; and funky rooms with private gardens or terraces. Just keep in mind that it’s an adults only “getaway” to rejuvenate from strenuous days in the city!
Find our more at https://www.scarlethotel.co.uk/
2 Marazion Hotel, Marazion
Marazion Hotel is a must location to stay at in the South of Cornwall, the hotel which was build as a coaching inn around the 1700’s has amazing views across Penzance bay towards St Michaels Mount.
The views are fabulously framed by the hotels period sash windows which give the rooms lots of charm and elegance.
The hotels Cutty Sark restaurant is a must visit, serving local beers and wines and specialising in local produce. They serve lunch and dinner seven days a week with a regularly changing menu.
Marazion is the original village in the area and outdates Penzance, so we would recommend a visit to explore the old cobbled streets and history of the town.
Find out more at https://marazionhotel.co.uk/
3 Tresanton Hotel, St Mawes
On a hot summer’s day, at the wonderfully decorated Tresantonis Hotel, you can easily image that your sat chilling in the Mediterranean.
Staying at the Hotel Tresantonis, gives you the opportunity to fully relax with great hospitality provided by the Italian owner Olga Polizzi.
The view provided by St Mawes are also second to none and the small yachting haven is a wonderful place to visit in the summer.
The small hotel has 30 rooms that have been dressed in elegant textiles and decorated with beautiful art pieces. Outside the hotel you will find some great subtropical gardens and there’s also a private yacht available for one’s use.
Find out more at https://tresanton.com/
4 The Old Coastguard Cottage, Mousehole
This adorable countryside inn will have all of you feeling as if you’ve stepped right into your own tale! Nestled in a beautifully quaint fishing village, this hideaway is the perfect destination for anyone who has always dreamed of somewhere with stunning seaside views.
From here, you can take in the breath-taking scenery whilst enjoying charm found only in the most fairy-tale of settings.
Inside the inn, you’ll find a welcoming and cosy dining room with rustic décor paired with modern and comfortable seating — making it easy to enjoy delicious food and drinks. In addition, there are 14 charming guest rooms (that each feature their own eclectic details that fit with the theme perfectly)
Find our more at http://www.oldcoastguardhotel.co.uk/
5 Hotel Boskerris, St Ives
This adults-only boutique hotel is located in a prime location, less than three minutes from the St Ives train station.
Guests can enjoy the breath-taking scenery offered during their stay here, including stunning views of the sea across to the local Godrevy Lighthouse.
Within a few minuets walk from your window you can be enjoying the stunning sandy beach at Carbis Bay, a beach that stretch’s for over 1 mile of beautiful golden sand.
Boskerris Hotel was recently restored by Jonathan and Marianne Basset, who are avid travellers and they have used this inspiration from their travels to decorate the 15 rooms with elegant patterned headboards and fresh, airy pinks and blues for adults to act as if they’re at home
A bar and lounge area are available on-site, along with an elegant restaurant serving delicious light bites as well as traditional Cornish treats. Guests can enjoy this adults-only retreat taking advantage of the modern amenities within close proximity to the surrounding attractions proudly found around St Ives or Hayle town centre.
Find out more at https://www.boskerrishotel.co.uk/
6 The Pig at Harlyn Bay, Cornwall
The Cornish Pig was eagerly anticipated when it opened in 2020 and its easy to see why, we are a big fan of the Pig at Combe in Devon as well, and guess what the Pig at Harlyn Bay didn’t disappoint either.
Robin Hutson’s Pig Group has a reputation for serving extremely hearty meals that consist of ingredients sourced just from within 25 miles from the restaurant.
The Pig at Harlyn Bay has an array of well decorated rooms which over look the rolling surf of North Cornwall.
The hotel lies just four miles west of Padstow. Surrounded by greenery and stunning rural landscapes, fine cuisine like fresh lobster can be served on its own terrace to enjoy the stunning views across the Harlyn Bay.
The Pig has a total of 30 well decorated rooms to choose from many of whic are based in the grand manor house that looked typically British but everything — from the nautical-accented décor to down-to-earth hospitality was bang on trend.
Find out more at https://www.thepighotel.com
Top Campsites to stay at in Cornwall
Camping is great and for those looking for a holiday out in the fresh Cornish air, check out our list of the best six campsite when visiting Cornwall.
1 Highertown Farm, Lansallos by Looe
Highertown Farm Campsite as you would expect is a superb medium sized camping and caravan site run the the national trust.
The grounds of Highertown — which happens to be an authentic working farm that’s just around half a mile away from the south-east coast — are extremely well taken care of. The facilities are housed in a cottage that was nicely expanded and has a beautiful pine-paneled extension. Posters on water consumption and solar power hint at the green agenda with regards to being sustainable.
On the campsite, you are greeted by the view of just one green field that is bordered by natureal hedges and landscape, in the distance lies the sides a an old granite church tower and historic farmhouse.
Highertown Farm looks over various peaceful settings and other farms in the area with cattle grazing. You can walk through the wooded area that leads to a secluded cove where there are stacks of rocks. The sparkling waters resemble a natural swimming pool, so it protects its guests from either side from waves.
Find out more at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
2 Gwithian Farm Campsite, Hayle
Beyond the awesomeness of St Ives and its many shops galore, Gwithian Beach is a slightly more raw but equally attractive environment. Here you’ll be able to find some of Cornwall’s most consistent surfing, which might come as no surprise considering how beautiful this location really is.
Gwithian Farm Campsite itself paints a bucolic picture with views of the village church and the gentle slopes of the countryside.
The site offers a range of facilities normally found in more expensive, built-out holiday parks: from modern shower blocks to handy phone charging points the sit makes sure you are very well looked after during your stay.
Find out more at https://www.gwithianfarm.co.uk/
3 Beacon Cottage Farm, St Agnes
Cornwall is home to many scenic campsites, including the lovely Beacon Cottage Farm, which promises spectacular views of its home area’s dramatic coastlines.
The site is located near the base of St Agnes Beacon (one of Cornwall’s highest points) and just steps from cliff-side trails. The fact that it enjoys gorgeous coastal landscapes and is a superbly run, uncommercialized farm make camping here an unparalleled treat for outdoor aficionados.
Being so hire and on the coast, the campsite can get exposed, so its best to book here when the weather is playing ball and head to more sheltered lands if the winds are going to be strong.
Find out more at https://www.beaconcottagefarmholidays.co.uk/
4 Treloan Coastal Campsite, Roseland peninsula
The landscape around the Roseland peninsula is widely considered to be one of the most romantic landscapes around the Southwest region.
The sweeping creeks, lustrous and lonesome coasts, and pastures that swim into the sea helped this romantic countryside become what it is today.
Treloan campsite benefits from wonderful sweeping views of the surround sea and is a great location for a sundowner or a BBQ whilst the sunsets below the horizon.
Find out more at https://www.treloancoastalholidays.co.uk/
5 Mount Pleasant Eco Park, Porthtowan
We stayed at this comfortable and well-maintained campsite overlooking the Porthtowan sandy beach. It had around 40 camping pitches, all with a sea view.
The local Porthtowan beach is a lovely place to spend some time in the sun or during an afternoon walk.
There are lots of things to do in the area from Surfing (You can hire boards or get lessons in the area)
The campsite has an energetic and vibrant feel that is full of life whilst being a great place to relax with the seaside views.
Find out more at https://www.mpecopark.co.uk/
6 Mousehole Campsite, South Cornwall
Near a beautiful harbour in southwest England, a small football club have opened up a campground next to their field. It has showers, bathrooms and sinks already existing inside of the main changing room building.
There is a clubhouse bar with drinks that are relatively inexpensive and there is great community feeling to be found within the walls of this establishment. Also, it’s super close to the beach! You can just walk over if you can handle that pop-up type of campsite vibe.
Find our more at https://www.mouseholecamping.co.uk/
The Top Ten Cornwall attractions in brief — as rated by TripAdvisor
We have created many articles on wonderful attractions and places to visit in Cornwall which you can see below the list, but for those looking for a quick suggestion or even a day trip to Cornwall see these ten great places to visit as ranked by TripAdvisor
See more great article about things to do and places to visit in Cornwall
Great things to See & Do on When Visiting Cornwall
Top ten exciting things to see and do when visiting Cornwall — ranked! At the Southern End of Britain lies the coastal county of Cornwall with it stunning white sandy beaches and miles of coastline to explore
Top 10 Seaside Villages to Visit in Cornwall
Stunning Seaside villages in Cornwall to visit for a great Cornish day out Cornwall without a doubt is a beautiful place full of quaint beach towns and stunning sweeping coastlines, see our article on the top 10 villages to visit on the Cornish Coast.
If you love the Cornwall check out our range of Cornish artwork at Sebastien Coell Photography
Why Choose our European prints?
Photographs ofEurope are a perfect option if you like colourful landscapes full of vitality and the romanticism of the most classic cities. Travel between the cities of Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Switzerland and Austria and enjoy their wonderful views.
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If you prefer the British area, there is also a good repertoire of photographs that can meet your needs including: Prints of Wales, Scotland Prints and Prints of England
From the sandy beaches of Cornwall, The tors of Dartmoor to the lighthouses of Devon’s Coast A lot of my British art comes from my local counties of Devon and Cornwall, See our Dartmoor Printsor Cornish Seascape Prints
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For lovers of snow or minimalism, Scandinavianframed prints are the best option. The vibrant contrast to the snow and grey skiescolours of homes, cabins and nature in stark provide elegant and stylish images.
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