A Complete guide to Cornwall, Exploring England’s coastal gem.

With its breathtaking natural landscapes and a wealth of unique, unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered, Cornwall is the ultimate destination for your next holiday.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this stunning region promises an unforgettable getaway. This article will discuss everything to know for a getaway to Cornwall.

Transport in Cornwall
When it comes to getting around Cornwall, there are several transport options, each with its own advantages. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular choices:
Train – With stations in all the major towns and villages, taking the train is a relaxing and scenic way to explore Cornwall. The views along the way are nothing short of spectacular, making the journey part of the experience.
Car–driving offers the convenience of flexibility, allowing you to visit every corner of Cornwall at your own pace. While some of the country roads can be tricky to navigate, having a car gives you the freedom to explore at your leisure.
Bus – Buses are a cost-effective option for getting around, although they can be slower and more time-consuming than other methods. Still, if you’re on a budget, it’s a great way to travel the country.
Bike – For the more adventurous, cycling through Cornwall is a fantastic way to experience the stunning scenery up close. While the journey may involve some challenging hills, the rewards in terms of breathtaking views are worth the effort.
Personally, I prefer a mix of car and train travel. I enjoy the flexibility of driving, which allows me to stick to my schedule. But, there’s something particularly relaxing about a train ride through Cornwall, especially with the gorgeous landscapes rolling by.

Areas’ to stay in
With so many beautiful towns and villages to explore in Cornwall, choosing the perfect place to stay can be challenging. If you plan to visit Cornwall regularly, like we do, you can stay in a different town each year and experience its unique attractions. However, if you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll want to select the ideal base to make the most of your trip. Let’s dive into your options!
Truro
Located in the heart of Cornwall, Truro is the county’s capital and offers fascinating sights, including the impressive Truro Cathedral. If you’re keen on visiting all of Cornwall’s iconic attractions and prefer staying in a city rather than a rural area, Truro is an excellent choice. Many of Cornwall’s top tourist destinations are within a 90-minute drive from the city.
Perranporth
If you can’t imagine a holiday in Cornwall without being just a short walk from the beach, Perranporth could be the perfect base. Located just a half-hour drive from Truro, it offers easy access to all the attractions while being close to the coast.
Looe
Looe, a charming fishing town on Cornwall’s south coast, offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation.
Looe boasts picturesque streets and stunning views of the bay. Whether you’re enjoying a walk along the seafront or relaxing on the beach, the views are simply breathtaking.
With its golden sands and gentle waves, Looe Beach is perfect for families, while East Looe Beach provides a quieter escape.
Looe offers a peaceful, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle, making it ideal for a restful retreat or leisurely exploration.

lizard point
Lizard Point, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Cornwall, offers stunning coastal views, rugged cliffs, and a peaceful atmosphere. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s perfect for coastal walks, wildlife spotting, and exploring the Lizard Peninsula’s unique landscapes.
What to do in Cornwall
Cornwall has many attractions that bring in millions of tourists each year, from areas of outstanding natural beauty activities for adrenaline junkies, let’s have a look at what’s on offer:
Lands End
Land’s End is a famous landmark in Cornwall, located at the westernmost point of mainland England. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic cliffs.
Known for its natural beauty, it’s a popular spot for coastal walks, and the area also has a rich history.
Saints Micheals Mount
St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island in Cornwall. When the tide is low and the weather is clear, walking along the causeway to the island is a stunning experience. Even on high tide days, you can enjoy a lovely boat ride to the island, though there is a small fee for the journey.
St Michael’s castle is located on top of the tidal island offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall’s past. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is a fantastic destination for nature lovers, covering over 200 acres of woodland to explore. The gardens focus on preserving natural spaces, which enhances the beauty of the surrounding artwork. Signage throughout the gardens explains the history and creation of these features, offering visitors an educational and immersive experience.
The Minick Theatre
The Minack Theatre is a stunning open-air venue on the Cornish coast, built primarily with hand tools rather than large machinery. It offers breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline from every angle. Visitors can explore the theatre at their leisure, soaking in both the natural beauty and the unique architecture of this iconic location.
Truro Cathedral
Soaring above Truro’s landscape is Truro Cathedral, with its parish roots dating back to 1259. Although it has been rebuilt twice, it remains one of the most impressive cathedrals we’ve visited, with truly breathtaking architecture.
Tintagel castle
Perched on the cliff tops of North Cornwall are the remains of a 12th-century castle, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Eden Project
The Eden Project is a unique environmental attraction featuring massive biomes that house diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests and Mediterranean plants. It offers visitors an immersive experience in nature and sustainability, with educational exhibits and beautiful gardens spread across its 30-acre site.
Other Attractions
Adrenaline Quarry, Lizard Point, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Pendennis Castle, and Flambards Theme Park are all exciting and diverse attractions to explore in Cornwall.

Beaches of Cornwall
One of the key reasons Cornwall attracts so many tourists each year is its stunning beaches. Let me share some of the best beaches the region has to offer, in my opinion.
Porthcurno Beach
Porthcurno Beach, located on Cornwall’s south coast next to the Minack Theatre, offers a paradise-like setting with golden sands and crystal-clear blue waters. Walking onto the beach feels like being transported abroad.
There is parking just a short walk away from the beach.
Fistral Beach
Fistral Beach, located in Newquay on Cornwall’s north coast, is famous for its excellent surfing conditions and hosts international surfing competitions. In addition to the beach’s stunning views, there are five eateries offering a range of food options, along with shops to explore.
Upton Towans Beach
Upton Towans gets its name from the Cornish word ‘Towans,’ meaning sand dunes, which makes sense as dunes stretch across the entire beach. There are several paths across the reserve to access the beach, some of which are suitable for wheelchairs and prams. We visited in May and were amazed it felt as though we had it to ourselves. We could walk for 10 minutes without crossing paths with anyone, likely due to the vast 239-acre area the reserve covers.

What to eat in Cornwall
A trip to Cornwall isn’t complete without trying a traditional Cornish pasty, which is far superior to the ones you can find in a supermarket. You’ll find them at almost any bakery around Cornwall—it’s always the first thing I reach for whenever I visit.
FAQs
How many days is enough for Cornwall?
I’ve spent a total of 12 days in Cornwall across different trips, managing to visit most of the main attractions as well as some hidden gems, all while leaving time to relax. Based on my experience, I’d recommend 10 days to truly enjoy the full Cornish experience
What is the best month to visit Cornwall?
From May til mid-July is the best time to visit Cornwall, as it’s the best chance to catch the sun without it being overcrowded due to the school holidays.

Conclusion
Cornwall is a destination that truly has it all—stunning beaches, rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique attractions. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks, relaxing on golden sands, or discovering hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. With its charming villages, delicious local cuisine, and endless opportunities for adventure, Cornwall offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip, embrace the Cornish spirit, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Cornwall has gained a place in my heart from the first time I visited, so having the opportunity to write a complete guide to the area has been amazing!
Have you ever been to Cornwall? If so, what is your favourite thing about the county?
