Destination Focus – Cornwall and the Cornish Coast
The beautiful county of Cornwall, nestled on the picturesque peninsula at the southwestern tip of England, is a unique land of rugged coastlines, wild moors and a rich cultural heritage. From ancient Celtic traditions to glorious seascapes and a vibrant arts scene, Cornwall is a destination for nature lovers and culture vultures alike. Whether it’s an ancient castle, a traditional seaside fishing town or a coastal walk, there’s something for everyone and a tour of this secret corner of England will be as rewarding as it is enjoyable. Read on to discover our highlights and top tips for your holiday in Cornwall!
For Cornish Culture – head for Penzance
One of an abundance of coastal Cornish towns, Penzance is a lively port with a long history, located near the iconic Land’s End. Setting of the famous Pirates of Penzance, the town is the perfect location for a spot of cultural exploration. Wander the narrow streets, to find quirky shops, cafes and galleries that celebrate Cornish life. A visit to the Cornwall Language Partnership Centre in Penzance offers the opportunity to learn more about the region’s ancient Celtic language and ongoing efforts to revive it – you can then bid the locals a friendly “Dydh da!” (Good day!).
For Cornwall and the Arts – visit St Ives
The beautiful harbour town of St. Ives has long been a haven for artists, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and unique light. The town is home to several renowned galleries, including the Tate St. Ives, which showcases modern British art with an emphasis on works inspired by Cornwall. Wander through the tangle of cobbled streets back from the harbour and you’ll find plenty of local arts and crafts boutiques (not to mention some great pubs!). Don’t miss the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden – a hidden gem.
For Cornish History and Legend alike – climb up to Tintagel Castle
A dramatic medieval castle ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Tintagel Castle combines history, legend and breathtaking views. A place steeped in myth, the site is inextricably linked to the legend of King Arthur, many believing it was the birthplace of the mythical king, with Merlin’s cave beneath. The intriguing visitor centre houses ancient exhibits and artefacts that delve into the history and archaeology of the area, including a 6th-century inscription that hints at the Arthurian legend!
For Maritime History – Falmouth is your spot
Falmouth is a lively port town with a rich maritime history. Home to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Cornwall’s seafaring past with exhibits covering everything from the region’s role in the Age of Exploration to its connections with the Royal Navy. The Harbor development area is a great place to soak in the town’s maritime atmosphere, with plenty of bars and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to watch boats of all sizes come and go throughout the day.
Nature Lovers Rejoice – The Eden Project
Cornwall is home to some epic natural scenery with craggy coastlines, wild moorlands and deep valleys in abundance. But a more modern addition to Cornwall’s landscape is the Eden Project, located near St. Austell. A world-renowned environmental site, Eden consists of three giant biomes set in a former clay mine and demonstrating a stunning feat of engineering and architecture – today the domes are home an array of unique and protected plant life all thriving in the maintained tropical and Mediterranean climates – a supremely interesting and visually impressive experience!
For Cornwall’s Tasty Treats – Explore Padstow
A coastal county, the whole of Cornwall is renowned for its excellent seafood offering – however we think the quaint harbour town of Padstow makes the perfect spot to sample some excellent Cornish cuisine. The town is home to a host of excellent seafood restaurants including that of British celebrity chef, Rick Stein. But it doesn’t have to be posh nosh (fancy food)! A wander around the harbour offers a number of excellent seafront shops selling traditional British take-away fish ‘n’ chip suppers, best eaten with lashings of salt and vinegar, fresh from the newspaper wrapping – just watch out for swooping seagulls! But if food is your thing there’s much more besides the local catch of the day; indulge in rich Cornish clotted ice cream, sample a Cornish scone with jam and cream or grab a traditional Cornish pasty, a savoury pastry stuffed with meat, onions and potatoes – the perfect hearty snack with a pint of ale as a break from a beautiful coastal walk!
Glorious Cornwall
A visit to Cornwall truly offers something for everyone; from its ancient Celtic past to its thriving modern-day art scene, Cornwall is a place where history, legend, and creativity intersect. Combined with it glorious natural scenery and unique cultural offerings Cornwall makes for a captivating destination on any trip to England.
Discover Cornwall on one of our dedicated tours:
Boutique Small Group Tours of Cornwall:
- Treasures of Cornwall
- A Celtic Journey – Cornwall and Wales
- Cornwall and the Cotswolds
- England’s Beautiful South
Self Drive Tours of Cornwall:
Rail Tours of Cornwall:
- England’s West Country by Rail (TBC)
Darryl Walters
January 31, 2025