Cornwall’s Top 5 Must-See Attractions!
Cornwall, a land shrouded in legend & myth, encompassing quaint villages, charming coastal towns & world class beaches; Cornwall is also England’s last bastion of an ancient Celtic identity. It’s no secret that the southwest peninsula is a hot-spot for outdoor enthusiasts and for good reason; few places in the UK can boast such a tranquil ambience and coastal landscapes. Cornwall’s untouched coastline has long been its greatest asset when it comes to tourism, but along with its stunning coasts, Cornwall is also home to ancient historical relics and must-see attractions. If you forgot your bucket and spade don’t stress, here is a list of the must-see cultural attractions in Cornwall.
The Eden Project: Bodelva, Par.
Opening in 2001, The Eden project is one of Cornwall’s best-loved visitor attractions. This giant botanical gardens is ome to thousands of plant species, collected from a vast range of different climates and environments, the Eden project is a marvel of environmental engineering, stunning design and green technology. The project has gained global recognition and is now one of the UK’s most visited attractions. A nature lover or not, the Eden project is truly something to behold and well worth visiting.
Eden is open every day except Christmas Day.
Tintagel Castle: Castle Rd, Tintagel.
Steeped in ancient myths and legends of King Arthur, Merlin and the famous Knights of the Round Table, the forsaken ruins of Tintagel castle are a must-see attraction in Cornwall. Visually dramatic, the windswept ruin lies in a stunning location, stretching across the northern coastline between a stark cliff and a rocky outcrop smashed by the ocean – the island is accessible only by bridge. Tintagel is a wondrous relic of an ancient people and is the symbolic stronghold of the mythical connection Cornwall has with Arthurian legend. It makes for an excellent stop on any driving tour of Cornwall.
30 March2018- 30 June 2018: 10:00 to 18:00 Mon-Sun. 1 July 2018- 31 Aug 2018:10:00 to 19:00 Mon-Sun. September- 10:00 to 18:00. Oct 2018-2019 TBC: CLOSED FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BRIDGE.
Tate Modern: St Ives.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Tate St Ives is one the Tate family galleries located across England, and one of only two located outside London. The exhibition celebrates the towns’ profound influence on modern art in the 20th Century. In 2017, the gallery re-opened at double the size after receiving funding for an expansion in 2015. If you are a lover of art, don’t forget to visit the Tate St Ives. Or sit back on the quaint docks watching the fishing boats return with their catch in the evening sun and do some doodling yourself!
10am – 5:20pm Mon to Sun (last admission at 5pm).
Heartlands: Robinson’s Shaft, Dudnance Lane, Pool.
From Wastelands to Heartlands, this historically significant site is part of Cornwall’s famous mining landscape and is recognised as part of the south west’s world heritage mining site. After 400 years of activity, the mine officially closed in 1998. 20 years on, tours of the world heritage mining exhibitions run daily and the 19 acre public space features botanical gardens, cafes and a host of annual cultural festivals, live performances, art exhibitions and more. Whatever you preference, Heartlands has something for everyone and is a must visit attraction during your trip to Cornwall.
Open every day from 9.30am – 5.30pm (April – September) and 9.30am to 4.30pm (October – March).Visitor Centre & Exhibitions open at 11am-4pm all year round. Last entry to Exhibitions is at 3.45pm.
Land’s End: Sennen, Penzance.
A magnificent landmark of the UK and the most South Westerly point of mainland Britain, no tour of Cornwall is complete without ticking Land’s End off your to do list. Stand at Land’s End and theeis only deep blue sea separating you and the Americas! Enjoy stunning coastal views as well as a host of other attractions and events, including firework displays and several annual celebrations that make Land’s End a must-see attraction in Cornwall.
10am-4:00pm Mon to Sun. Tue & Thur from 25th July- 31st Aug all attraction, shops & restaurants are open late, entertainment from 7pm.
Minack Theatre: Porthcurno, Penzance.
A stunning, unique landmark that is the envy of the UK; few landmarks in the world can match the famous open-air Minack Theatre. On appearance, it could be mistaken for an ancient Greek heritage, designed for Zeus himself, but in reality the site is 80 years old. The site consists of an Amphitheatre carved into the granite cliffs of Porthcurno over-looking the Atlantic Ocean; enjoy dramas, musicals and comedies in one of the most dramatic theatre settings in the world. The Minack Theatre is an absolute must visit attraction in Cornwall.
Opening hours: From March 1 to October 28, 2018 the Minack Theatre is open daily from 9.30am. Last entry is at 5pm and the theatre closes at 5.30pm (Café closes at 5pm). Times can vary depending on performances.
From a pioneering environmental centre to one of the world’s most spectacular theatre locations, the region of Cornwall boasts a remarkable number of legitimate attractions that will fill up the days of your vacation. There is simply never a dull moment during a trip to Cornwall. But don’t just take it from me. Why ponder? Experience Cornwall for yourselves! For more information see our selected tours of Cornwall.
April 18, 2018