Cornwall Travel Guide, Tips: Exciting travel guide for an unforgettable holiday in England

Are you looking for an authentic travel destination far away from the Mediterranean Sea? / Cornwall Travel Guide, Tips.

Then you should take a look at the county of Cornwall. A romantic region awaits you in the southwest of England, which is surrounded by numerous legendary legends / Cornwall Travel Guide, Tips

Because the area is not called the “Coast of the Celts” for nothing. Are you familiar with England’s popular travel destination from the “Rosamunde Pilcher film series”? Or do you have dreamy cottages, imposing mansions, steep cliffs, lush green gardens and miles of beaches in mind? The following Cornwall tips give you an insight into the magical part of England.

Facts about Cornwall / Cornwall Travel Guide

Of course, as you prepare for your Cornwall road trip, it’s useful to know a few facts about the region. The English county is located at the southwestern tip of the country and has a population of almost 500,000 inhabitants.

In addition, the area is characterized by predominantly untouched nature, hilly landscapes and a mild climate. In summer you will even feel a slightly Mediterranean flair and that paired with rustic, dramatic atmospheres – sounds tempting, doesn’t it?

As soon as you plan your trip, you will not only find numerous scenic beaches, but also incredible sights, many of which are marked by the Celtic times. In addition, you are greeted by flowering plants in Cornwall, because the climate ensures that exotic flowers can also thrive in the area.

In short, there is something for everyone on a trip to Cornwall. From an unforgettable outdoor holiday to a sunny holiday by the sea and a glimpse into England’s history, you can experience it all in the region.

Before you start your journey, you should know that due to Brexit, you now need a valid passport to enter England. It is also worth applying for a travel credit card.

Getting to Cornwall / Flying to Cornwall

As soon as you have decided on your travel destination and are in the middle of planning your holiday, the question of how to get to Cornwall naturally arises. From June to September you can usually get direct flights to Newquay Cornwall Airport from Düsseldorf and Stuttgart.

The flight time is usually one and a half to two hours. Alternatively, you can fly to London and get to Cornwall from there by public transport or a rental car. But more on that in a moment.

By car to Cornwall

Do you have enough time for a longer stay? Then, of course, getting to Cornwall by car should not be missing from the list of Cornwall tips.

Taking the ferry to Cornwall is one of the two options, for example from Dunkirk or Calais in France to Dover or from Le Havre to Portsmouth. Depending on the number of people and the type of car, you pay from €50 upwards for a ride.

Of course, the travel time also influences the price. Or do you want to take the car train through the Eurotunnel?

The advantage here is clearly the short travel time of just under two hours from Calais to Folkestone. But you also have to expect significantly higher prices, with tickets starting at around €120 per person.

If you don’t want to make any stops on your way to Cornwall, you still have to be prepared for a six-hour drive. And you have to keep left-hand traffic in England in mind.

As already mentioned, you can also head for one of the London airports and take a rental car from there towards Cornwall. It’s a five-hour drive from London.

By train to Cornwall / Cornwall Travel Guide

Do you want to travel to Cornwall by train? First, you can reach London in just under five hours with the modern Eurostar high-speed train.

For example, you can choose connections from Cologne with a change in Brussels. Once you have arrived at St. Pancras International train station, you have the option of taking services from Paddington train station to the holiday destination every two hours. Here you will be brought to the city of Truro in four and a half hours.

Getting around Cornwall

But how does getting around Cornwall work? There are numerous bus connections in the region that commute between the different holiday resorts and cities.

In addition, certain tourist routes are offered in the area that will take you to the main points of interest. So if you don’t want to be in English traffic, you can of course use Cornwall’s public transport.

Best time to go to Cornwall

Of course, the Cornwall tips also include the best travel time. If you are planning a trip to one of the most popular English holiday regions, you must of course also decide on a travel month.

Basically, the best time to travel to Cornwall is from April to September. Due to the influence of the Gulf Stream, you have to expect humid, changeable and sometimes stormy conditions, which are also characterized by quite mild temperatures.

During the months of April and May, Cornwall’s many gardens begin to bloom in bright colors. Even if you expect one or two rain showers at the time, you will definitely get to know the area far away from the tourist crowds.

In short, if you don’t need to rely on the holiday periods, you should visit Cornwall in late May – early June or in September. Because July and August is the high season and numerous locals cavort in the region of southern England.

And there is a simple reason for this: in the summer months you can expect the warmest average temperatures of 18 °C. In addition, the low season brings another plus: it is much cheaper.

Speaking of which – one thing that you definitely need to remember: always have rain gear and swimming gear with you, because the weather is quite changeable.

And as you can certainly imagine, the temperatures in winter like to crack the freezing point and rain showers characterize everyday life.

Towns in Cornwall / Padstow

We start our virtual round trip to the most beautiful cities in Cornwall in the north of Cornwall. The small port town of Padstow is sheltered on the Camel estuary and offers you numerous opportunities to take a break after a hike or bike ride.

If you want to spend a little more time locally, take the ferry to Rock Village and relax or surf at Rock Beach, Daymer Bay Beach or Polzeath Beach.

Newquay / Cornwall Tips

If you have landed a flight to Cornwall, you will start your journey in Newquay. The paradise for adventurers blends picturesquely into the rugged cliffs of the area and is considered a popular surfing spot in Cornwall.

But you can also experience a lot away from the unique nature with its dream beaches Fistral Beach and Watergate Beach. If it rains all day, you can visit the zoo or aquarium in the city of Newquay.

You will also find numerous bars, pubs and shops in the streets where you can spend some time. The lively atmospheres will convince you immediately.

Truro

Continue to the small town of Truro, which is considered the administrative capital of Cornwall. If you don’t just want to be out in nature, you can’t miss the influence of Georgian architecture in Truro.

Truro Cathedral should be the destination of your exploration tour. Revival Gothic Revival influences have made this Cornish sight a real landmark.

You will also find a shopping street around the cathedral where you can buy one or two souvenirs. Also, just wander around Boscawen Street, Lemon Street and Pydar Street and capture the historic atmosphere on camera.

St. Ives

Without a doubt, one of the special Cornwall tips is the paradisiacal town of St Ives. The cultural center of the region has a few surprises in store for you.

For example, you can admire different art exhibitions in the Tate St. Ives gallery or visit the pottery workshop The Leach Pottery. Or you can stroll through the sculpture garden of the Barbara Hepworth Museum.

On a pleasant summer day you should take the opportunity and relax on one of the dream beaches. You will be particularly impressed by the special water quality.

Otherwise, rent a kayak and let yourself drift across the water. With a bit of luck and patience you can spot seals or dolphins in the wild.

During your stay you will definitely have to pinch yourself at one point or another to realize the beauty and ask yourself if you are really traveling in England.

Penance / Cornwall Travel Guide

About 25 minutes by car from St Ives you will find the small town of Penzance on Mount’s Bay on the English Channel. What makes the town one of Cornwall’s top picks?

First you will find some of the few promenades in Cornwall on which you can stroll at the port of the city. You should also enjoy the atmosphere in the huge city garden Morrab Gardens or stroll through the historic Chapel Street.

You can also drive to the township of Marazion in just under 10 minutes, from where you can plan your visit to the legendary tidal island of St. Michael’s Mount.

Do you also want to visit the indescribable Isles of Scilly? There are regular ferry services from Penzance.

Finally, a special feature: Penzance is considered the first plastic-free community in the United Kingdom.

Falmouth

Finally, our way leads us to the port town of Falmouth. At the mouth of the River Fal you will find one of Cornwall’s most popular tourist destinations.

Once there, you have the chance to relax on beautiful sandy beaches, visit historical sights like Pendennis Castle or admire colorful gardens.

The cute alleys and rustic cottages alone ensure that you will literally fall in love at first sight. In short: a welcome stop on your journey through Cornwall.

Holiday Spots in Cornwall / Bude

You can also use the arrangement of the vacation spots in Cornwall as a travel route. The starting point is the small town of Bude, on the north coast of the region in close proximity to the county of Devon.

Amidst rugged backdrops, you can take endless coastal walks, relax on the beach or drive to the picturesque fishing village of Clovelly. Or you can hike along the Hartland Heritage Coast, which is almost 90 kilometers long.

Polperro / Cornwall Travel Guide

Surrounded by hills and lush green trees, the fishing village of Polperro blends magically into the Cornish countryside with its typically whitewashed cottages. The little paradise is perfect for an overnight stay if you want to get to know the originality of the region.

And very close by is the popular seaside town of Looe. The area definitely doesn’t promise too much and is considered one of the top Cornwall tips.

Fowey

A little further south along the coast, the resort of Fowey rises on the elevated banks of the River Fowey and stretches to the English Channel estuary.

During your stay you have to explore the authentic streets, hike along the coasts and take the ferry to the opposite village of Polruan.

St Mawes

When in Falmouth make sure to plan a trip to St Mawes village. Here, too, the small, traditional houses cavort along the coast and create breathtaking photo backdrops.

During your stay you must enjoy the views from St Mawes Castle or cruise along the Carrick Roads sea bay.

Cadgwith

The tiny village of Cadgwith definitely has a fairytale feel to it, nestled on the primeval peninsula of The Lizard. The typical English cottages with their thatched roofs characterize the townscape and the surrounding lush green hills and the sound of the sea complete the dreamlike atmosphere.

Porthleven / Cornwall Tips

Porthleven is located south of the small town of Helston. At one of the most southerly ports in Great Britain you can experience the authentic atmosphere of Cornwall up close.

Around the harbor you will find small bars and shops that you can stroll through. And you absolutely have to stay in one of the pubs.

Mousehole

Finally, you get to know the tranquil village of Mousehole. In the midst of the typically rustic alleys you will discover galleries and small bars.

You should also watch the hustle and bustle at the harbor or go hiking along the coast. If you’re already in the area, it’s worth continuing on to the impressive open-air Minack Theatre.

Other holiday spots in Cornwall:

St. Austell
looe
Helston
Helford
Sennen Cove
Mevagissey
purse
cover
boscastle
Port Isaac
St Agnes
Carbis Bay
mullion

Things to do in Cornwall / Tintagel Castle

One of the most famous sights in Cornwall is the ruined castle of Tintagel Castle. If you are traveling in the west of the region, the mystical destination is an absolute must on your to-do list.

Here you can experience the myths surrounding King Arthur up close. The ruin sits atop roaring cliffs on a peninsula and can be reached via steep stairs and a footbridge.

Now you’re probably wondering how to capture the backdrops in the pictures undisturbed, right? Then you have to be early, especially in the high season.

Lizard Point

Do you want to be able to say that you took a picture and enjoyed the panorama at the southernmost point of mainland Great Britain? The Lizard Point is located on the peninsula of the same name and is surrounded by the wild nature of Cornwall.

At the so-called entrance to the English Channel you should definitely use the time and go hiking to the beach at Kynance Cove or the small town of Cadgwith.

Land’s End

Land’s End is England’s most westerly point and one of the draws of Cornwall Tips. Whether for the typical souvenir photo or to enjoy nature – a trip is worthwhile!

If you want to drive to the viewpoint by car, you have to expect parking fees, alternatively you can plan hikes. In addition, you have to expect that there will be many travelers, especially in the high season.

St. Michael’s Mount / Cornwall Travel Guide

When you think of a tidal island, you probably immediately think of the island of Mont Saint-Michel in French Normandy, right? But also in the southwest of Cornwall you can marvel at a special architectural work of art in the sign of ebb and flow.

The small island of St. Michael’s Mount is one of Cornwall’s special landmarks. Would you like to feel the magical atmospheres up close?

During low tide you have the opportunity to walk to the island from the village of Marizion, otherwise ferries will bring you across. On the island you can marvel at an imposing castle and walk in the fascinating footsteps of the former medieval pilgrimage destination.

You can take a short break in the Island Cafe or in the Sail Loft restaurant.

Are you staying in the area? Then you shouldn’t miss the sparkling sunrise or sunset and the possible wafts of fog.

Minack Theatre

Do you love spectacular views and atmospheres? The open-air theater Minack Theater meets both criteria and is one of the special Cornwall tips near the town of Porthcurno.

Every year between July and September you have the chance to marvel at special plays by Shakespeare, for example. And surrounded by the raging sea, deep gorges and lush green hills – really unique.

If you are late to buy tickets or are traveling outside of the season, you can also visit the theater during the day and admire the architecture.

Gardens of Cornwall

The gardens of Cornwall are definitely one of the special highlights of the region and should definitely end up on your must-see list. As already mentioned, the mild climate is one of the main reasons why numerous exotic plants thrive in Cornwall and why you can look forward to colorful flowers.

One of Cornwall’s top picks is the vast grounds of The Lost Gardens of Heligan. The landscape park is definitely one of the most beautiful gardens in England and is divided into different themed areas, such as a jungle, a kitchen garden or an ornamental garden.

Once you’re in the area, be sure to visit the Eden Project, 30 minutes north. The futuristic-looking botanical garden depicts different climate zones and has set itself the goal of protecting endangered, old plant species.

With its own information center, the project also offers you the opportunity to learn more about climate change and our ecosystem in an interactive way.

You should also have the subtropical park Glendurgan Garden on your screen. In addition, the Trebah Gardens are a true oasis and a special recreation area.

Finally, you should find out more about the following gardens: Trelissick Garden, Trewidden Garden, Lanhydrock Gardens, Bonython Estate Gardens or Trewithen Garden.

Bedruthan Steps

Striking, roaring, fantastic and freestanding rock formations await you at the Bedruthan Steps. On the north coast, between the towns of Trenance and Porthcothan, at low tide you can take a stone stairway down to the beach and walk between the rocks and take a souvenir photo or two.

But during peak season, be prepared that you won’t be the only travelers with the idea. So find out about the tides in good time and choose a good time.

Other attractions in Cornwall:

Pendennis Castle Fortress
Mansion Trerice
National Trust – Cotehele Mill
Lanhydrock House and Garden
St Mawes Castle Fortress
Rock formations The Hurlers
Stone circles Merry Maidens
Ruins Chysauster
Trevose Head Lighthouse
Truro Cathedral
Restormel Castle ruins
Former Geevor Tin Mine
Abandoned Levant Mine

Beaches in Cornwall

Did you know ahead of time that you could have a scenic seaside holiday on the south west coast of England? Remote bays or endless expanses of sand, the beaches in Cornwall will literally take your breath away and you will rub your eyes in amazement and wonder if you are still in England.

Do you want to spend a family holiday in Cornwall or maybe go surfing? Each of you is guaranteed to find a perfect favorite place there.

Without a doubt, Porthcurno Beach Bay is one of the most beautiful Cornwall tips. Emerald water, soft sand, surrounded by rocks – that’s how the beach near the open-air theater Minack Theater can be described in any case.

During the summer months lifeguards ensure your safety and you will find toilet facilities on site, but it can also get quite crowded. We continue on the Lizard Peninsula with one of the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall, the beach at Kynance Cove.

The contrasting nature ensures that the region is one of the most popular travel destinations in Cornwall. In addition, you cannot miss the beaches in Newquay and the surrounding area.

Picturesque Crantock Beach is a 50-minute walk from the city center. Alternatively, Fistral Beach and Tolcarne Beach are popular destinations for a day of water sports.

About 20 minutes south of Newquay you will find the wide Perranporth Beach, which is perfect for families, especially at low tide. Finally, you have to put the surf spot Constantine Bay at the top of your to-do list.

Other popular beaches in Cornwall:

Summerleaze Beach
Polzeath Beach
Holywell Bay
Constantine Bay Beach
Porthminster Beach
National Trust – Lantic Bay
Great Western Beach

Things to do in Cornwall / Hiking in Cornwall

Which one of you loves to consciously perceive areas while hiking and to slow down everyday life?

So walking in Cornwall is one of those activities that you are bound to have no choice but to do. So you can experience and love the magical nature of Cornwall up close.

Let’s start with one of Cornwall’s top tips, the South West Coast Path. At over 1,000 kilometers long, the route is one of the longest hiking trails in Great Britain.

The starting point is the town of Minehead, Somerset, and the ending point is Poole Harbour, Dorset. The path leads you through the picturesque regions of Devon and Cornwall.

But very few have the time to hike the entire section in one go. Therefore you should inform yourself about the section between Portreath and the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall.

Depending on the stopovers, you can complete this route in a good seven days and discover highlights such as the beautiful city of St Ives, the open-air theater Minack Theater or the bay of Keynance Cove.

The enchanted moorland of Bodmin Moor, the woodlands of St Nectan’s Glen and the Camel Trail are also popular Cornish walks.

Cycling in Cornwall

Do you want to discover Cornwall from a different perspective and do sports at the same time? How about cycling in Cornwall?

If you are traveling with your own car, you should consider bringing your own bikes with you. But alternatively you can of course also rent bicycles.

You ride over hill and dale on the former, disused railway line of the Camel Trail cycle path. At almost 28 kilometers in length, you will encounter contrasting landscapes around Bodmin Moor. In short: it will be unique.

Alternatively, you can explore more than 60 kilometers of pure nature and visit cute villages on the mostly traffic-calmed sections of the North Cornwall Trail.

Surfing in Cornwall

Yes, you read that right, surfing in Cornwall is one of the most popular sporting activities in the region. If you are looking for surf spots in Europe, the county of Cornwall is definitely one of the insider tips.

That’s why you don’t necessarily have to travel to France, Spain or Portugal for your surf trip – the Cornwall tips also have a lot to offer and you will find the best conditions in the summer months.

The inexperienced among you will find ideal conditions to take part in a surf course in Cornwall, especially in the summer months. If you are pros, the waves are definitely bigger in the spring and fall months.

If you are planning a round trip through Cornwall, you should keep an eye on the following surf spots: Bude, Polzeath Beach, Newquay with Fistral Beach, Crantock Beach, Perranporth Beach, Gwithian, Porthtowan, Porthmeor Beach or Sennen Cove.

Surf Schools in Cornwall:

Smart Surf School – Sennen Cove
Escape Surf School – Newquay
Fistral Beach Surf School – Newquay
Cornish Wave Surf – Newquay
Harlyn Surf School-Padstow
The Surf Club Cornwall – Mawgan Porth
Shore Surf School – Hayle
West Country Surf School – Newquay

Golfing in Cornwall

Have you always wanted to play golf with a sea view? The approximately 30 campsites in Cornwall promise an incredible experience and let you putt your balls in the middle of the rough nature.

Now you will get to know some golf clubs that you should take a closer look at: Perranporth Golf Club, St Enodoc Golf Club, Trevose Golf and Country Club, West Cornwall Golf Club or Bude and North Cornwall Golf Club.

More things to do in Cornwall

If the weather doesn’t play along and you still want to roam through nature, you should plan a trip on the Helston Railway. Alternatively, you can take a round trip by car along the West Cornwall Coast Road from St Ives to Land’s End.

Looking for action and thrills? Have you ever heard of the so-called coasteering?

For example, this activity explores rocky coastal landscapes by climbing, jumping in the water or swimming. And that only with life jackets and without any aids such as boats.

There are a few providers of coasteering in Cornwall who will take you along the coastal landscapes. Are you curious? Then you should take a closer look at the companies Cornish Coasteering, Kernow Coasteering or Cornish Rock Tors Ltd.

Or are you planning a trip with the family and want to give your kids some variety? In Newquay Zoo, Blue Reef Aquarium or Cornish Seal Sanctuary you have the chance to introduce the youngest of the family to wildlife.

When the weather is nice, the huge playground Hidden Valley Discovery Park is one of the top Cornwall tips. Maybe you are also interested in cultural highlights, then the National Maritime Museum Cornwall or the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic will provide an exciting variety.

And for those of you who are always on the lookout for special viewpoints and photo spots on hikes, here are a few Cornwall tips: National Trust – Pentire, Dodman Point, Cape Cornwall, Godrevy Point, Chapel Point, Ladies Window or St Agnes Head.

Excursions from Cornwall

When planning your trip, you should definitely find out about the different destinations from Cornwall.

Isles of Scilly

The paradisiacal Isles of Scilly in the Atlantic are at the top of your to-do list.

Have you ever heard of this magical place of longing? Without a doubt, one of England’s insider tips awaits you there.

The almost 140 islands lie around 45 kilometers as the crow flies off the coast of Land’s End, although you can reach the five inhabited islands by ferry from the resort of Penzance in just under three hours.

As soon as you learn more about the archipelago, you will notice that they are also known as the “Caribbean of Great Britain”. And rightly so!

Between palm-fringed sandy beaches, crystal-clear water and lush green nature, you have the opportunity to seek peace and relaxation.

County of Devon

If you have the time, you definitely need to plan a trip to the beautiful county of Devon. Once there, the landscapes of Dartmoor National Park and Exmoor National Park are among the absolute highlights.

In addition, the following holiday resorts and cities are among the most beautiful travel destinations in the region: Exeter, Plymouth, Torquay, Salcombe, Kingswear, the dunes of Woolacombe, Bigbury-on-Sea, Dartmouth, Totnes or Ilfracombe.

County of Kent

Are you planning to arrive by ferry? If you come to England via Dover or Folkestone, you should check out the county of Kent before continuing your journey.

In the southeast of the country you will find some exciting sights of England that you should not miss if you have time. In addition to Canterbury Cathedral or the moated Leeds Castle, you must make a stop at the roaring chalk cliffs of Dover and enjoy the medieval backdrop at Dover Castle.

Southern England road trip

Are you in the middle of holiday planning? If you not only want to discover Cornwall, but also have more time, a southern England road trip is worthwhile.

In order for the round trip to stand out, you definitely have to plan a two-week stay. Here are some of the England tips that you should definitely consider on your route.

The starting point is the small medieval town of Rye. Continue in Eastbourne to see the world-famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs.

You are also familiar with the holiday resort of Brighton, aren’t you? While you’re in the area, make a beeline for the port cities of Portsmouth and Southampton, or soak up the quirky atmosphere of England’s ancient capital, Winchester.

Continue to the university city of Bath. There you can walk in the footsteps of the Roman Empire, marvel at historical architecture and discover original thermal springs.

Before heading to the wild Jurassic Coast between Swanage and Exmouth, take in the vibrant scenery in the city of Bournemouth. And that’s not all, you’re spoiled for choice. England is full of surprises!

Eating & Drinking in Cornwall

Of course, back in Cornwall you have to know the specialties of the region. Typical Cornish dishes are Cornish Pasty pasta, which is traditionally filled with potatoes, beef and turnips.

But if you stop somewhere in the afternoon, you will be offered Cornish Cream Tea almost everywhere. Black tea is usually served with the classic scones and jam and clotted cream.

You should also try Cornish cheese. Or you can drive to the Tregothnan Tea Shop and shop for locally grown teas.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try Cornish Heavy Cake. Ingredients such as flour, butter, lard, milk, sugar and raisins are used for the preparation.

A somewhat unusual dish is the Stargazy Pie with sardines and potatoes. But the fish soup from Cornwall is also one of the traditional dishes.

Fish and chips are an absolute must during your trip. And at least once you have to taste the typical English breakfast.

Did you know you can buy Cornish wine? Yes, you read that right – small estates grow wine in Cornwall.

And what else is so typically Great Britain? Of course, the numerous pubs where you can drink delicious English beer.

Apropos: one of the largest breweries in Cornwall is the St Austell Brewery, where you can also take part in a brewery tour.

Wineries in Cornwall:

Camel Valley Winery
Knightor Winery
Polgoon Vineyard
Trevibban Mill Vineyard

Campsites in Cornwall

Planning a camping holiday in Cornwall? The feeling of freedom, independence and idyll is simply indescribable.

Waking up in the midst of magical nature – definitely one of the mysterious Cornwall tips.

Now you’re probably wondering if wild camping is