Tintagel Castle Cornwall Sarah Latham

Looking at exploring Cornwall, a collection of villages by the seaside in South West England? You’re not alone. Cornwall is one of the most popular UK travel destinations, with over 4 million people visiting each year. This place is popular due to its relaxed atmosphere, great British beaches and beautiful landscapes. To discover the 10 best places you need to visit in Cornwall read on…

1. Watergate Beach

The first spot we went to on our Cornwall holiday in 2021 was Watergate Beach. Found less than a 10 minute drive north of Newquay, this surfing beach is popular for good reason. An expansive sandy beach is framed by towering cliffs, meaning you can sit out on the beach as well as wander the cliff paths and enjoy great views of the area. One thing to note about Watergate Beach is that during peak tourist season it can be quite difficult to park your car so would recommend car pooling or public transport where possible.

Watergate Beach Cornwall Sarah Latham

2. Newquay, Cornwall

Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most well known towns. Famous for its seaside town atmosphere, Newquay was immensely busy and popular when we visited in Cornwall in July 2021. Wander through the town, admire the nearby beaches (including probably the best located house in England!) and don’t forget to pick up a Cornish pastry while you’re here.

3. Porthcothan Bay

Duck away from the crowds at Porthcothan Bay, found on the northern side of the Cornish coast. Here you can follow the quaint cliff top paths to different sheltered beaches and find empty (or nearly empty!) spots for a dip. Be sure to bring your camera as this coastline is absolutely beautiful and vibrantly coloured.

4. St Ives, Cornwall

Another well known town in Cornwall is St Ives. Found towards the tip of the peninsula, enjoy wandering around this fishing town, famous for its seafood. Be sure to keep your eye out for seagulls, as these pesky birds have become very accustomed to people and will happily swoop on in to snack on your lunch. I could’ve spent all day wandering through this seaside village.

5. Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm

Take a break from the seaside with a visit to Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm. A mixture of both a cidery and a farm, here you can enjoy a guided tour (complete with cider tasting) and hang out with some of the cutest farm animals you’ll find in Cornwall.

6. Truro, Cornwall

Situated within the middle of the country, Truro is Cornwall’s only city and was where we based ourselves when visiting the area, driving each day to the other mentioned locations. This city is worth visiting as it has an impressive cathedral and a pub (County Arms) with fantastic country views. I recommend watching the sunset over the city and cathedral from this park on Treyew Road.

7. Fisherman’s Cove

Fisherman’s Cove is an absolute Cornwall must do. Found on the north side of the coast, you’ll be forgiven if you mistook England for Bali for the day. Find out how to get to this spot here: Fisherman’s Cove: Secret Spots in Cornwall

8. Pilchards Cafe at Port Gaverne

If seafood is your thing then you don’t want to go pass Pilchards Cafe at Port Gaverne. A popular spot for sea-foodies, I recommend picking out your favourites from the menu and sharing across your group so you can enjoy a little bit of everything while looking out across the view.

Pilchards Cafe at Port Gaverne Sarah Latham

9. Port Isaac

Just up the road from Port Gaverne, you’ll find Port Isaac. Famous for many for being the home of popular UK TV show, Doc Martin, this fishing village is a popular spot on the Cornwall tourist map. It’s narrow, steep streets leading towards a centre beach, old cobbled pathways, cute houses, gorgeous views and quaint seaside atmosphere made Port Isaac easily a personal favourite town of mine.

10. Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

One very impressive landmark in Cornwall is Tintagel Castle. While definitely boasting more scenic views than actual castle, a visit to this English Heritage site will have you cross a narrow windy bridge to a where a community once thrived on this clifftop in the 5th to 7th centuries. Whether you know this historic site as the birthplace of King Arthur or not, it is very impressive so be sure to bring your camera with you as you’re going to want to use it.

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