If Cornwall is on your list of places to visit this summer then look no further! Jacinta from Jacintaz Three shares with us a list of activities and adventures to follow in the land of pasties, Poldark and pixies!
Numerous award winning beaches, spectacular coastal scenery, delicious seafood cuisine and some popular festivals make Cornwall a top holiday destination in the UK.
Cornwall is on the west coast of the UK and is surrounded by the sea. It includes the most southerly and westerly points of the UK. The weather being influenced by the sea, means that it sees winter temperatures rarely falling below freezing and summer temperatures reaching highs of up to 30 degrees.
I recently visited Cornwall with my family and we fell in love with it making us decide to visit there again very soon.
In my opinion, here are the top 10 things to do when in Cornwall –
1. Sea Safari in Newquay
Top of the list and this is because it is a first-hand experience is the Sea Safari in Newquay. You can avail of this tour from Newquay Harbour and it costs £20 per head (adult or child) but it is so worth the money. The two-hour catamaran trip around the coast involves getting up close and personal with a variety of sea life. Be prepared to see a basking sea or if you’re lucky even a shark and if you’re really lucky you may get to see dolphins. We were thrilled to see a school, frolicking in the sea. It is inspirational to see these gorgeous sea creatures roam free in their habitat where they are not restricted by humans. The guide Dave was knowledgeable and friendly and it was a memorable experience.
2. The Eden Project in Bodelva
The Eden Project features huge Biomes , that look like bubble wrap, of house plants and environments that help us learn about nature. The Rainforest Biome is humid much like the actual Rainforest and brings you up close and personal with plants that grow and thrive here. Don’t forget to have this very refreshing drink – Baobab. There’s a non alcoholic version for children and a rum-laced version for adults. The Mediterranean Biome treats your eyes to beautiful tulips and the Mediterranean flora. We had an excellent lunch in the restaurant there in the restaurant called The Olive.
3. Surfing at Fistral Beach, Newquay
Go surfing at Fistral Beach, Newquay. Vast amounts of white gold sand and consistent surf make it the perfect setting for festivals the like of which include Boardmasters – Europe’s largest surf and skate festival in August, The English National Surfing championship and the King of the Groms Junior Surf Festival. If you can’t surf but would like to learn, there are lessons available as well as equipment for hire. Prefer to sit and watch? Fistral’s sea front facilities of cafes and restaurants, parking and toilets and showers make it a popular beach for families too.
4. Kynance Cove, The Lizard
A stunning cove tucked away in Cornwall, I can’t stop recommending a visit. It is a beautiful walk down from the top and you can choose the easy way over a path or take the longer route via the rocky beach. Be sure to check out the timings for low tide as then you can actually walk around the cove and access the caves. Don’t forget to visit Kynance Cafe near the beach to feast on some Cornish Pasties.
5. Carnglaze Caverns, Bodmin Moor
It rains throughout the year in Cornwall so if you are looking for some wet weather activities look no further than a Cave experience. While you can go exploring the numerous caves on your own, it is probably best to book a cave tour. Carnglaze Caverns on the southern edge of Bodmin Moors offers a unique self-guided underground experience 60 metres below ground.
6. Tintagel Castle, Tintagel
Visit Tintagel Castle where the legend of Kind Arthur lives on. Climb 148 steps and enter what used to be the Great Hall to relive the life of the Dark Ages among the ruins. You may want to visit Tintagel Cave en route to the castle to be caught up in Merlin’s magic.
7. The Lizard
The most southerly point of the UK, this is a picturesque place and well worth visiting. Take a walk around on the cliffs and visit The Lighthouse. The Lighthouse has restrictions so you may find it a bit of a struggle with young children. You can actually walk along the coastal path from Kynance Cove to Lizard Point if you fancy. From Lizard Point you can walk around to Mullion Cove and Poldhu Cove – both steeped in history.
8. Rick Stein’s Cafe in Padstow
Sampling cuisine of a particular place can help imbibe the culture and Cornwall is no exception. Enjoy seafood delicacies in top restaurants dotted around the towns. Rick Stein has put Padstow on the gastronomical map with his restaurants and gourmet delis – The Seafood Restaurant, St. Petroc’s Bistro and Rick Stein’s Cafe. Be sure to make a reservation to avoid disappointment.
9. Coastal Walks
If you love walking tours, then you will be spoilt for choice in Cornwall. The coastal path walks allows you to take in the awe-inspiring scenery and enjoy the balmy sea air. There are a number of walking paths but be aware that these are rugged at times and can take longer than first envisaged.
10. Land’s End
Last but not least – visit Land’s End. The westernmost point of the UK, Land’s End is just breathtaking. The walks are family friendly so don’t hesitate going there with children. Explore the new heritage trail and take in the natural beauty of your surroundings. There is ample parking too.
