Things to Do in Cornwall

Your Ultimate Staycation – a 7 day itinerary to the perfect holiday in Cornwall

Charlie — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 11:38:24 +0000

Your Ultimate Staycation – a 7 day itinerary to the perfect holiday in Cornwall Charlie Tue, 07/31/2018 - 11:38

With so much to see and do in Cornwall, knowing what to fit into your holiday can seem a bit of a challenge.

Some of the most stunning scenery in the country (even the world) awaits, with golden sandy beaches, striking cliffs, picturesque harbours, rugged moorland, idyllic countryside… the list goes on. Well known as a foodie paradise, Cornwall’s innumerable restaurants and pubs beg the question, where to eat? And there is no shortage of incredible places to visit, things to see and experiences to try to fill your days.

Cornwall is a place that you will want to come back to year after year, still never seeing all its wonders and delights and still never tiring of its beauty. But if you want to get the full ‘Cornwall Experience’ in your one week – read on!

	Day 1 You’ve just arrived in Cornwall, perhaps you had a long drive. Time to unwind! The Watering Hole in Perranporth is the only bar in the UK that’s actually on a beach! Set on the sand along this 3-mile long beautiful bay. Watch the sun go down over the sea, soaking up the awe-inspiring views, drink in hand. Great atmosphere, great scenery – the perfect start!
	Day 2 To Eden! World-renowned, and with good reason, The Eden Project’s main draw is its two huge biomes which rise out of the bottom of a former disused quarry. Spectacular in their own right, the biomes are full of even more incredible plants from all over the world. Around the domes, the rest of Eden is full of weird and wonderful sites to behold, with a real emphasis on education and sustainability. Many of the exhibits are interactive making Eden a fabulous day out for young and old. There’s something new to discover around every corner, including their many cafés where you can enjoy the tasty range of lunches and snacks on offer. For the braver members of your party, Eden also boasts England’s longest and fastest zip wire! Zooming right over the biomes, you get a bird’s eye view of the whole site! Remember to get your discount on entry to Eden using our Holiday Extras Scheme. After a jam-packed day at Eden, zip off to Fowey – only a 15 minute drive. This beautiful harbour town is located at the mouth of the River Fowey on the South East coast. Home to many great restaurants, why not try out Sam’s. Sam’s has had huge success in Fowey, and now has restaurants across the county. A laid-back atmosphere and great food make Sam’s a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. With much of the seafood coming straight off the dock in Fowey, you won’t find fresher produce. They also do great cocktails!
	Day 3 Set between Falmouth and Lizard Point, the Helford River is a true gem. One of Cornwall’s most serene locations, the exquisite, tree-lined estuary could not be more tranquil, and there’s no better way to experience it than by kayak. Explore the inlets and meanderings of the river at your own pace, taking in the gorgeous picture-perfect scenes and seeing a range of incredible wildlife up close. Continue the laid-back, serene feel with lunch at the Shipwright Arms in the little village of Helford. Set right on the creek, the inn is full of character and history – and great food! If you indulge a little too much and need to burn off your lunch, then a walk is probably in order. Cornwall has the longest coastline in Britain, making it hard to choose which coastal walk to try, but the paths around the Lizard Point have to be some of the best. Park at the Lizard and follow the South West Coast Path along the cliffs, marvelling at the incredible views. Kynance Cove is one of those places that has to be seen to be believed – breathtakingly beautiful. Then head inland for a change of scenery, enjoying the grasses and heathers of the Lizard Downs. After a short walk on the country lanes and you arrive in Cadgwith – a chocolate box village full of character with thatched cottages centred around a tiny harbour. Head back along the coast path to arrive at your starting point. No doubt you will have worked up an appetite again, as the walk is roughly 3 hours. The harbour town of Falmouth is home to Oliver’s The Eatery, the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Serving modern British food in a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, the perfect end to a perfect day!
	Day 4 Time to take in another of Cornwall’s stunning panoramic vistas! The stretch of the South West Coast Path from the village of Porthcurno to the iconic Land’s End headland takes about 2 hours and encompasses not only impressive sea and coastal views and tiny, idyllic beaches but some Poldark filming locations as well! The clifftop path of this remarkable walk affords views of the hard to reach teeny coves made famous for scenes in the popular drama. The end of the walk brings you to Land’s End – the most westerly point in mainland England. After enjoying the views, head inland a little to the First and Last Inn at Sennen for some well-deserved lunch. The more adventurous may want to walk back, but for most of us, the bus back to Porthcurno seems the most appealing option! Once there, a real treat is in order. The world-famous Minack Theatre has plays running throughout the summer and nothing beats the experience of watching the play with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop! Most plays have matinees and the tickets are reasonably priced.
	After your day’s entertainment, head to the north coast (only 17 miles) and explore one of Cornwall’s true highlights. The light in St Ives has proved irresistible for generations of artists and the clear, turquoise waters provide inspiration for some truly magnificent works. Well worth a visit during your stay if you have time, St Ives includes the Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepworth museum as well as numerous galleries and studios to explore. Wander the narrow, picturesque streets until it’s time for dinner. As well as serene light, fine art and great beaches, St Ives is also well known for its gastronomic delights – especially seafood. With too many to choose just one, a couple of our favourites are the Seafood Café which, as the name suggests, serves excellent seafood and the Porthminster Café with its incredible views.
	Day 5 With Cornwall enjoying a milder climate than the rest of the country, the gardens here are some of the most spectacular, often flowering earlier than other places and happily supporting species that don’t grow elsewhere. One of our favourite gardens has to Heligan, located near St Austell on the South East coast. The gardens were lost for many decades, becoming completely overgrown until they were rediscovered and brought back to their former glory. The beautiful walled gardens and winding paths passing through numerous separate gardens, are supplemented by woodland and countryside walks across the rest of Heligan estate.
	There’s also the ‘jungle’ to explore where a rope bridge connects the two sides of the valley so you can walk above and amongst the exotic specimens. The café at Heligan is stocked partly by what’s grown in the immaculate vegetable gardens. Round off the day by heading to nearby Mevagissey. A lovely fishing port just over a 5 minute drive from Heligan where you take to the waters on a boat trip. With plenty of options, from fishing trips to pleasure cruises and wildlife watching tours, everyone will enjoy getting out on the ocean! With all that salty sea air, you’re sure to be feeling hungry before too long! Try Salamanders in the village for dinner - fresh locally caught seafood - what could be better!?
	Day 6 For the kids, Camel Creek near Padstow makes for a great day out. There’s a whole host of animals to see; from emus, horses and llamas to caiman, snakes and meerkats. There’s also a selection of rides for all ages and levels of bravery! For adults and older kids, fully immerse yourself in the Cornish experience! Have a go at stand up paddleboarding (SUP) or surfing. The area around Padstow and St Merryn boasts some of the best watersports schools in the county and also some of the best conditions. And remember to use our Holiday Extras Scheme to get discounts off some lessons (discounts available at Harlyn Surf School, Kingsurf Surf School, Newquay Activity Centre and Waves Surf School amongst others). The fishing port of Padstow is well worth a wander round and provides ample choice for places to have lunch. As one of Cornwall’s foodie hot spots, you’re spoilt for choice. After lunch, if you haven’t brought your own bikes with you, you can hire some in Padstow and take a ride along the Camel Trail. One of the most popular cycle trails in the country, this 18 mile route runs from Padstow along the estuary to Wadebridge and then inland through idyllic countryside to Wenfordbridge near Bodmin. The vast majority of the trail is traffic-free with only a tiny stretch through the market town of Wadebridge on the road. It’s also really level so you can enjoy the scenery without too much effort! Ride for as long or as little as you want, then return to Padstow for some well-deserved dinner! There are some really great options, but if you’re in Padstow, why not give Rick Stein’s a go. There’s something for all budgets; if you’re feeling flush, indulge in dinner at The Seafood Restaurant, or you could sample the delights of the bistro or just eat fish and chips sat on the harbour wall!
	Day 7 With all the exertion of your holiday, make your last day a lazy beach day. One of our favourites is Constantine Bay – it has great surf, plenty of rockpools, glorious golden sand, a seasonal café, some great cliff walks and is dog friendly. The beaches either side are also popular - Treyarnon Bay has a tidal pool and neighbouring Booby’s Bay is generally much quieter - just be careful of the tides! After a couple of hours on the beach, it’s time to head home, hopefully refreshed and revived by your time in Cornwall!

We’ve given you a real flavour of the county and covered some of the highlights, but remember there is always more to experience; more amazing walks, more fabulous restaurants and more things to see and do.

Things to do in May Half Term

The Team at Cornish Horizons — Fri, 04 May 2018 11:06:20 +0000

Things to do in May Half Term The Team at Co… Fri, 05/04/2018 - 11:06

Bring your sense of adventure with you to Cornwall this May half term, you’ll definitely need it!

With a wealth of opportunities to explore and embark on adventures, there’s definitely something for everyone!

The avid nature lover can wander amongst the wonderful wildlife at Paradise Park in Hayle or have a front seat row to the action that happens daily at the Monkey Sanctuary in Looe! For those who want to see a vast array of more varied animals there’s always Newquay Zoo, where you can view and feed the animals as well as listen to talks presented by their keepers. However, if it’s the creatures of the deep that you wish to come face to face with this May, why not visit the Bluereef Aquarium in Newquay, or visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek?

For those of you that prefer your sea life a little closer to you, why not grab a net and some bait and go crabbing along the harbour in Looe? With its many varied cafes serving Cornish delights and fresh cream teas as well as tasty, hot filled pasties and ice-cream parlors’ for your sweet tooth, you are guaranteed a fun day out without the admittance fees! Why not drop by the Cornish Horizons Office on West Quay for secret tips on the best bait to use to catch the biggest crabs that Looe has to offer!

May is always the best time to view the gorgeous gardens that Cornwall has to offer, so why not take your greenfingers along to Trebah Garden near Falmouth, where you can take an amble around their beautiful Cornish valley garden, or head to Lanhydrock in Bodmin, with its cycling tracks and woodland adventure playground there’s always plenty to see and do. Or why not visit the world famous Eden Project at St Austell with its Mediterranean and Rainforest Biomes and sprawling pathways filled with endless plant varieties from around the world, to keep you delighted and educated at the same time!

And for those adrenaline junkies why not ride SkyWire whilst you are there, England’s longest zip wire over the Biomes, or visit Adrenaline Quarry near Liskeard where you can ride the giant swing, try axe throwing, drive a Kart or jump off a cliff, as well as enjoy a more sedate picnic at the side of the beautiful lakeside surroundings!

For those fans of everything historic, why not visit one of the many National Trust properties or Castles that Cornwall has open to the public for exploration, including St Michael’s Mount, Minack Theatre, Tintagel Castle and Pendennis Castle to name but a few. Whilst the braver amongst you may choose to venture to Bodmin Jail, where you can explore the varied history of the building as well as learn about the paranormal ‘goings on’.

With so many different choices, one things’ for sure, you definitely will be spoilt for choice this May half term in Cornwall!

Things To Do in Cornwall

May Day Celebrations

Charlie — Fri, 27 Apr 2018 10:08:16 +0000

May Day Celebrations Charlie Fri, 04/27/2018 - 10:08

Merry merry May!

A truly stunning time of year - when fresh, warm breezes blow and plants and flowers burst into life.

May is the traditional time of year for ushering in the spring - it’s celebrated in Cornwall, and many other places, by May festivals - full of colour, music and dancing!

Cornwall has an abundance of celebrations and festivals to enjoy - why not pop along while you are on holiday to join in the townsfolk’s celebration of spring!

Padstow May Day

One of the better known festivals, Padstow’s May Day (or Obby Oss Day) is celebrated on 1st May (or the 2nd if the 1st falls on a Sunday).

The town is festooned with greenery and spring flowers and the streets are criss-crossed with colourful flags culminating in the spectacular maypole. The May Song can be heard throughout the day and in the days running up to the main event! There are two Obby Osses (red and blue) with dancers, followers and musicians processing round the town to the beat of the drums and the accordions’ tune.

St Ives May Day

Also on 1st May is St Ives May Day. A slightly more genteel affair, the main festivities begin at midday when the May King and Queen are chosen.

The day is full of music and dancing with performances by several local choirs and brass bands throughout the day, a parade to the harbour where maypole dancers delight and many traditional performances including May sticks and Cornish music and dancing.

Why not get the train in? There is a park and ride from Lelant Saltings (between Hayle and Carbis Bay) so you get parking and a little train journey with stunning scenery right into the heart of St Ives.

West Looe May Fayre

In early May (in 2018 it will be Saturday 5th May), the town of Looe is also ready to welcome in the spring, with a maypole (where anyone can join in the dancing!) and a procession through West Looe.

Expect music, dancing and plenty of entertainment throughout the day. There are also stalls with crafts, competitions and games for young and old to enjoy. Singing and music delight the crowds and it makes for a great family day out.

Helston Flora Day

Every year the town of Helston buzzes with the Flora Day celebrations. Held on 8th May or the previous Saturday if the 8th falls on a Sunday or Monday (in 2018 it’s on Tuesday 8th May), this ancient festival has been celebrated for hundreds of years.

The atmosphere in the town is incredible - colour, music and spectacle radiate through the town which is adorned with greenery and flowers. Ladies, dressed in their brightly coloured finery, are accompanied by men in top hats and tails. The couples process and dance through the streets, occasionally entering buildings to banish the winter darkness. Music is provided by the Helston Town Band, playing their traditional tune.

Things To Do in Cornwall

The Great Gardens of Cornwall

Harriet Wills — Fri, 02 Mar 2018 11:47:54 +0000

The Great Gardens of Cornwall Harriet Wills Fri, 03/02/2018 - 11:47

The Great Gardens of Cornwall

With the frost and snow that we’ve all seen this week, it might just warm us all up to think that Cornwall’s great gardens have opened for Spring! Impacted by the warmth of the Gulf Stream, Cornwall’s gardens are home to rare, unusual and beautiful plants. And in case that didn’t tempt you, most are dog friendly and run events throughout the year.

A collection of the best-known, largest, most historically and horticulturally important gardens in Cornwall are collectively known as 'The Great Gardens of Cornwall'. This group of internationally renowned gardens comprise of private gardens, National Trust gardens and garden businesses. We invite you to step away from your own snow-covered garden and join us as we introduce you to 'The Great Gardens of Cornwall'.

Bonython Estate Walled Garden

Although the walled garden at Bonython Estate dates back to the late eighteenth century, by 1998 nothing remained of the original plantings or layout. Extensively remodelled and replanted over the last ten years, this unique garden now meanders around the sea-facing 1780’s Bonython Manor house.

From ornamental grasses to Proteas, this is a South African inspired garden. The herbaceous borders of the walled garden are lined with Alliums and Catmint in blues, purples, yellows and white.

We recommend - taking a stroll through the orchard of Cornish apple trees towards the lake and stop off at the thatched summerhouse for a cup of tea and homemade cake.

Caerhays Castle Gardens

Caerhays is an informal woodland garden overlooking the sea and extending to over 140 acres. The castle itself was designed by the famous Regency architect John Nash around 200 years ago with the gardens originating from the work of plant hunters in China at the start of the 20th century. Caerhays gardens are famous for their own varieties of Camellias and Magnolias - some of which are record size!

With historical holiday let conversions in the castle grounds why not stay at the beachfront Old Fish Sheds or within the castle itself in the Rabbit Warren flat.

We recommend – for the Poldark lovers amongst us, join a guided tour around the castle and learn all about its Cornish mining heritage.

The Eden Project

The Eden Project has quickly grown an international reputation as a truly unique, socially and scientifically important garden. Famous for its striking Biomes, these are the world’s largest greenhouses, built within a 50 metre deep crater. From seasonal menus, entertainment and the changing landscapes, there’s always a full programme of exhibits and events throughout the year.

We recommend - the Rainforest Aerial Walkway and walk amongst the tree canopy!

Lamorran Garden

Constructed in three separate stages, the design of Lamorran Garden showcases a Mediterranean and water feature garden. You’ll spot Rhododendrons, Camellias and Azalea flowers during the spring months. But as Lamorran is home to over 200 Palms and a Tree Fern collection there’s plenty to see all year including Jasmines, Fuchsias, Citrus plants, Banana trees, Agaves, Yuccas and more!

Strolling through the woodland through to the Japanese water garden, you’ll come across exotic temple structures and archways whilst you take a moment to look out at the view over the bay.

We recommend - a pitstop on the terrace for a Cornish cream tea!

Trebah Garden

This magical, valley garden near Falmouth runs towards a secluded beach on the Helford river. A sub-tropical garden, it has about four miles of footpaths, a special children’s trails and is home to the tallest Chusan Palm in the UK.

From the 100-year-old Rhododendrons to the Giant Rhubarb tunnel, Trebah has a stunning coastal backdrop and is the result of 175 years of inspired and dedicated creation. Trebah’s china blue Hydrangea’s are the perfect spot for a family photo. Created by Charles Fox, the gardens play an important part in the history of the second world war, where Trebah’s beach was an embarkation point for the troops of 29th US Infantry Division who were destined for the assault landing on Omaha beach.

We recommend – view Trebah from a Helford cottage, click here.

Tresco Abbey Garden

If you’re thinking of taking a quick trip from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly during your trip to Cornwall, then the Tresco Abbey Garden is a gem. The Abbey was created in 1834 and has since been home to an extraordinary collection of plans from throughout the world. Meander through the “Higher and Lower Australia”, “Mexico” and “South Africa Cliff” garden zones to experience Palms, Bamboo, Cacti, Echium, Agapnthus, Flame-Trees and King Proteas.

We recommend - lingering in the garden’s Valhalla Museum. This is a unique collection of figureheads from ancient shipwrecks on show in a quiet corner of the Abbey Garden.

And now for some names you might not have heard of:

Trewithen Gardens

Trewithen is an historic private Estate with a world recognised collection of Camellias, Rhododendrons and Magnolias. Spring is the perfect time to see early flowering Magnolias on your woodland walk and stroll around the 18th Century house.

Tregrehan Gardens

The towering conifers from the early Victorian Plant Hunters, combined with botanically important recent planting, has encouraged over 150 trees to reach champion status in the UK. Your magical woodland walk will take you past the old grain mill, walled garden and glasshouse.

Tregothnan

A look around the private Tregothnan Estate, near Truro, will be a day to remember as it is home to England’s only tea plantation. It’s micro-climate, on the banks of the River Fal, has enabled many extraordinary fruit trees and rare plants to thrive.

We recommend – if you’re visiting Cornwall for Christmas pick your Christmas tree from their magnificent collection!

Trewidden

Situated on the Lands End peninsular, Trewidden was started by Edward Bolitho in the 1840’s. With tree ferns set within ancient tin workings, this is said to be the finest fern collection in the Northern Hemisphere. Look out for the ancient tin smelting kettles used as water features.

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens is nestled in a sheltered valley and is the perfect spot for large scale exotic and sub-tropical planting. Such a dramatic landscape provides the ideal backdrop to inspirational artworks from internationally renowned artists such as James Turrell and David Nash.

National Trust gardens

The National Trust great gardens of Lanhydrock, Glendurgan, Antony, Cotehele, Trelissick and Trengwainton are amongst 'The Great Gardens of Cornwall' collection. Find out more here.

But to finish our 'Great Gardens of Cornwall' collection, this is a great garden you’ll all have heard of:

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

After decades of neglect, the Lost Gardens of Heligan were unveiled in 1992. See the towering Bamboo, Giant Rhubarb, ancient woodlands, sub-tropical jungle and Banana plantations. Produce grown at Heligan is delivered to the Heligan Kitchen where it is used in the daily lunchtime menu for you to round off the perfect outdoor adventure with a tasty treat.

We recommend - taking a selfie with the iconic mud-heads of course!

Thanks for the great images Visit Cornwall - for more ideas of what you can do on your trip to Cornwall, take a look here.

Things to Do in Cornwall

Things To Do in Cornwall

Things to Do in Cornwall

Your Ultimate Staycation – a 7 day itinerary to the perfect holiday in Cornwall

With so much to see and do in Cornwall, knowing what to fit into your holiday can seem a bit of a challenge.

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Things to do in May Half Term

Bring your sense of adventure with you to Cornwall this May half term, you’ll definitely need it!

May Day Celebrations

Merry merry May!

Padstow May Day

St Ives May Day

West Looe May Fayre

Helston Flora Day

The Great Gardens of Cornwall

The Great Gardens of Cornwall

Bonython Estate Walled Garden

We recommend - taking a stroll through the orchard of Cornish apple trees towards the lake and stop off at the thatched summerhouse for a cup of tea and homemade cake.

Caerhays Castle Gardens

We recommend – for the Poldark lovers amongst us, join a guided tour around the castle and learn all about its Cornish mining heritage.

The Eden Project

We recommend - the Rainforest Aerial Walkway and walk amongst the tree canopy!

Lamorran Garden

We recommend - a pitstop on the terrace for a Cornish cream tea!

Trebah Garden

We recommend – view Trebah from a Helford cottage, click here.

Tresco Abbey Garden

We recommend - lingering in the garden’s Valhalla Museum. This is a unique collection of figureheads from ancient shipwrecks on show in a quiet corner of the Abbey Garden.

And now for some names you might not have heard of:

Trewithen Gardens

Tregrehan Gardens

Tregothnan

We recommend – if you’re visiting Cornwall for Christmas pick your Christmas tree from their magnificent collection!

Trewidden

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens

National Trust gardens

But to finish our 'Great Gardens of Cornwall' collection, this is a great garden you’ll all have heard of:

The Lost Gardens of Heligan

We recommend - taking a selfie with the iconic mud-heads of course!