Top 10 Things to do in Cornwall

Things to do in Cornwall

Welcome to Cornwall, the rugged and breathtakingly beautiful county in South West England. With stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and charming towns, Cornwall is a must-visit destination for any traveller. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this region has something to offer everyone. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the top 10 things to do in Cornwall that will make your trip unforgettable! From historic castles to gorgeous gardens and everything in between – let’s dive into the best of what Cornwall has to offer.

1. St Michael’s Mount

St Michael’s Mount is a breath taking island located off the coast of Cornwall. This beautiful landmark boasts a stunning castle, picturesque gardens and sweeping views of the surrounding ocean. To reach St Michael’s Mount, visitors can take a boat or walk across the causeway during low tide.

Once you arrive on the island, you’ll be transported back in time as you explore medieval architecture and learn about its fascinating history dating back to prehistoric times. Climb up to the castle for panoramic views of the coastline or stroll through terraced gardens filled with exotic plants.

Don’t miss out on exploring The Village which offers quaint shops and eateries serving up delicious Cornish pasties. Whether it’s hiking along coastal paths or soaking up local history, there is something for everyone at St Michael’s Mount.

Be sure to check their website before visiting as opening hours vary depending on seasonality and tidal conditions. A visit to this iconic destination will leave you feeling enchanted by its beauty and captivated by its charm!

2. Trebah Garden

Trebah Garden is a paradise on earth, located in Mawnan Smith near Falmouth. It boasts a diverse collection of exotic plants and flowers that bloom year-round, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The garden spans over 26 acres and features a stunning coastal backdrop.

Visitors can explore the various gardens with their unique themes such as the water garden, bamboo grove, and rhododendron valley. Alongside these fantastic themed gardens are peaceful ponds and lakes that provide visitors with calming tranquillity.

The plant life found at Trebah Garden is truly breath taking; there are beautiful magnolias, camellias, and azaleas scattered throughout the grounds. Additionally, there’s also a rare collection of New Zealand tree ferns that have grown to astonishing heights due to Cornwall’s mild climate.

One highlight of Trebah Garden is its proximity to Polgwidden Cove beach – visitors can stroll down to this picturesque spot for some relaxation after exploring the garden. The onsite cafe serves delicious food made from locally grown produce – perfect for refuelling after exertion!

In conclusion, Trebah Garden offers an unforgettable experience which cannot be missed by anyone visiting Cornwall. With its serene beauty combined with impressive botanical diversity, it definitely secures itself as one of the top things to do in Cornwall!

3. Bodmin Moor

Bodmin Moor is one of the most mysterious and intriguing places to visit in Cornwall. This wild and rugged landscape covers over 200 square kilometres, with rolling hills, rocky tors, and vast expanses of heather.

One of the highlights of Bodmin Moor is its rich history. The area is home to a number of ancient burial sites, stone circles, and standing stones. Visitors can explore these fascinating relics from Cornwall’s past on foot or by bike.

Another popular activity on Bodmin Moor is hiking. There are miles upon miles of trails that wind their way through this stunning wilderness area. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there’s something for everyone here.

Wildlife enthusiasts will also find plenty to discover on Bodmin Moor. The moorland habitats provide a haven for many rare and endangered species like the cuckoo bird and adder snake.

If you’re looking for an adventure in nature with a dose of mystery thrown in then visiting Bodmin Moor should definitely be at the top of your list!

4. Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle is one of Cornwall’s most iconic landmarks. It sits on the rugged coast, with stunning views across the sea. The castle played an important role in British history, as it was believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur.

The castle ruins are spread across a large area and can be explored by walking along the cliff tops. Visitors can also cross a newly built bridge that connects both sides of the castle.

One of the highlights of Tintagel Castle is its rich history, which dates back to Roman times. There are numerous exhibits and information boards throughout the site that explain its fascinating past.

Visitors will also appreciate how beautifully situated Tintagel Castle is, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts keen to capture stunning coastal vistas or dramatic landscapes.

Visiting Tintagel Castle should definitely be on every traveller’s list when exploring Cornwall – whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for breath-taking scenery!

5. Newquay Zoo

Newquay Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers in Cornwall. This award-winning zoo boasts over 130 species of animals, including big cats, primates, and exotic birds.

One of the main highlights of the Newquay Zoo is its conservation efforts. The zoo participates in many breeding programs to help endangered species such as lemurs and red pandas. Visitors can learn about these programs through interactive displays and talks given by knowledgeable staff members.

Aside from conservation efforts, visitors can also enjoy daily feeding sessions with animals like meerkats and penguins or even experience close encounters with some of the more friendly residents at the zoo’s “Animal Encounter” section.

The Newquay Zoo also offers various educational activities for children such as wildlife workshops and keeper experiences where they can assist with animal care tasks alongside trained professionals.

Newquay Zoo provides an enjoyable and educational day out for families while supporting global conservation efforts.

6. Minack Theatre

Nestled on the cliffs of Porthcurno, Minack Theatre is a spectacular open-air theatre that boasts breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Built into the granite cliffs in 1932 by Rowena Cade and her gardener, this unique theatre has been attracting visitors from all over Cornwall for nearly a century.

The theatre’s terraced seating area can accommodate up to 750 people and provides an unforgettable experience during performances with its stunning backdrop and natural acoustics. Visitors can also explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the theatre before or after shows.

Minack Theatre hosts a variety of plays, musicals, operas, and concerts throughout the year. From Shakespearean classics to contemporary productions, there’s something for everyone at this magical venue.

But it’s not just about watching a performance here – attending an event at Minack Theatre is an experience in itself. The sun setting over the ocean as you enjoy a show under clear skies is truly enchanting.

7. Screech Owl Sanctuary

Screech Owl Sanctuary is a must-visit attraction for all animal lovers. Located in St Columb Major, Cornwall, this sanctuary offers a safe haven to over 40 species of owls and other birds of prey.

Visitors can take part in guided tours and learn about the different types of owls that reside here. They also have the opportunity to hold and interact with these beautiful creatures up close! It’s an experience you won’t forget.

Besides their owl exhibits, Screech Owl Sanctuary has other animals on display such as meerkats, alpacas, emus, and even reindeer! You’ll definitely want to bring your camera along with you.

The sanctuary also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and support their conservation efforts. All proceeds from the sales go towards maintaining the sanctuary and caring for its residents.

Screech Owl Sanctuary is an amazing place to visit during your trip to Cornwall. From learning about various bird species to getting hands-on experiences with them – it’s not something you’d want to miss out on!

8. Bude Tunnel

Bude Tunnel is one of Cornwall’s most unique attractions. Located near the town of Bude, this man-made tunnel was constructed in 1835 to connect two adjacent beaches.

The tunnel stretches for about a quarter-mile and offers visitors a chance to explore its history while enjoying some breath-taking views.

As you enter the tunnel, you’ll be greeted with an eerie silence that is only interrupted by the sound of water dripping from above. The walls are lined with bricks and stones that have been worn smooth over time, adding to the charm and character of this fascinating attraction.

Despite its age, Bude Tunnel has stood the test of time remarkably well. It’s been lovingly restored over the years and now features lighting systems that enhance its beauty while ensuring visitor safety.

Visitors can stroll through at their own pace or join one of many guided tours available throughout the year. Don’t forget your camera because there are plenty of photo opportunities waiting around every corner!

Visiting Bude Tunnel should definitely be on your list if you’re looking for something different during your visit to Cornwall!

9. Watergate Bay

Watergate Bay is a prime destination for surfers and beach lovers alike. Located near Newquay, it offers a two-mile stretch of golden sand backed by cliffs and rolling hills. The bay is known for its excellent surfing conditions, with consistent waves throughout the year.

Aside from surfing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Watergate Bay. Visitors can take part in kiteboarding lessons or try their hand at paddleboarding or kayaking. There are also several coastal paths to explore, offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

For those looking for a more relaxing experience, there are plenty of beachside cafes and restaurants to choose from. Enjoy fresh seafood while taking in breath-taking views of the ocean – it doesn’t get much better than that! And if you’re looking to stay overnight, there are several hotels nearby offering stunning views over the bay.

Watergate Bay is definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Cornwall. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply want to soak up some sun on one of England’s most beautiful beaches, this spot has something for everyone.

10. Eden Project

The Eden Project also runs events throughout the year including live music concerts and outdoor theatre performances making it worth revisiting again and again! And don’t forget to check out the Eden Kitchen, where you can savour delicious dishes made with local ingredients.

Eden Project offers an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages, with something to satisfy everyone. Whether you’re looking for a day out or just want to explore the marvels of Cornwall, this attraction should not be missed.

Cornwall is a land of enchanting beauty and endless possibilities for exploration. From the history-imbued Tintagel Castle to the serene Trebah Garden, from the majestic St Michael’s Mount to the awe-inspiring Minack Theatre, Cornwall offers an experience like no other.

If you are looking for wildlife adventures or simply want to relax in scenic spots, then Bude Tunnel and Watergate Bay will give you just that. Meanwhile, if you’re passionate about animal welfare and conservation, then visiting Screech Owl Sanctuary or Newquay Zoo will be a fulfilling experience.

To sum up our list of top 10 things to do in Cornwall is Eden Project. This attraction is more than just a garden; it’s an eco-park featuring two biomes that house different plant species from around the world. The Rainforest Biome houses tropical plants such as vanilla orchids while Mediterranean Biome displays citrus fruits and olive trees.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes – Cornwall awaits!