Cornwall travel guide

Memory of Cornwall

“Cornwall is like a treasure chest, pictures in brochures do not do it justice. Three sides of the county are surrounded by breathtaking coast-line, golden stretches of sand, clean blue sea and quaint coastal towns and villages. And it has beautiful, golden beaches that rival those in Spain and the Caribbean.”

Sarah, Germany

More than stunning scenery

Cornwall is the most south westerly county in England, and is most famous for its stunning scenery - tantalising views of deep wooded valleys and wide vistas of sparkling blue sea combine with a varied and luxuriantly coloured landscape, historic market towns, attractive fishing villages and picturesque riverside hamlets. But there is more to Cornwall than the scenery – guide your way through the great local food, intriguing history, adrenaline-fuelled activities, fascinating tourist attractions and historical traditions - all combine to make Cornwall one of the best places in Britain for a holiday.

Culture & heritage

Cornwall has a strong industrial heritage, so much so that its mining landscape has been made a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ancient antiquities, such as stone circles and remains of iron age villages can also be found between Land’s End and Penzance, and Celtic crosses dot the Cornish countryside.

Attractions

Cornwall’s great attractions offer something for all interests and ages. The famous Eden Project in St Austell explores humankind’s relationship with plants, and is one of Britain’s most popular attractions. St Ives is a must for arts and crafts, with 30 galleries including the Tate St Ives . Fowey has many small galleries and specialist shops, as do St Agnes on the north coast and Penzance in the west.

Food & drink

If you’re coming to Cornwall to sample Cornish pasties and Cornish cream teas, you won’t be disappointed. But there’s so much more to Cornwall’s food and drink scene. British celebrity chefs like Risk Stein have taken advantage of the fantastic local produce – Rick has 4 restaurants in Padstow, and you can find Jamie Oliver's Fifteen restaurant in Watergate Bay. 

Shopping

If you want to indulge in a spot of retail therapy in a relaxed environment, Cornwall is the perfect place. For a more conventional shopping experience head to Truro; art-lovers should steer to St Ives; antique hunters to Lostwithiel, and for that something special you can't beat Falmouth's eclectic cluster of local arts and contemporary boutiques.

Sport

Forget football - take advantage of Cornwall’s dramatic landscape and indulge in some adventure activities. Cornwall is one of the best places in Britain for surfing, and you’ll find a surfing school on most of the big beaches. The steep cliff sides and expanses of open space are ideal for coasteering, but if you fancy something a bit more relaxing, try walking the South West Coast Path or a bit of fishing. For all the great fishing tips in the area, try the Get Hooked website.

Music & nightlife

Cornwall may be famous for peace and tranquillity but when the sun goes down another side to Cornwall comes alive - Cornwall certainly knows how to party! With a reputation as the ultimate party town, Newquay is the place to be if you want a big night out. Or for an alternative party location, head to the student town of Falmouth. 

Buy before you fly

To make your trip to Cornwall easier, you can buy tickets to attractions, travel passes, and much more at our online shop, and avoid the queues! For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Shop .