Cornwall is an absolute gem of a region to visit in England. With its gorgeous beaches, quaint fishing villages and natural beauty, it’s the kind of place you can easily spend a week travelling around. That being said, with it being quite a large area, it can be difficult to nail down the best areas in Cornwall to visit as part of your holiday or road trip.
Over the years, we’ve explored Cornwall many times. It’s stunning, especially in the warmer summer months when you can take a dip in the sea and really enjoy its glorious beaches. Best of all, Cornwall is the perfect place for a chilled holiday, or even a road trip around the wider region. It’s totally suited to both, and all ages!
So, to help you along on your merry way, I want to share our top places in Cornwall that you cannot miss. This way, you can focus on those all-important experiences and the important stuff, like how many Cornish Pasties you can feasibly eat!
1.) St Michael’s Mount
Easily one of the region’s most iconic places, St Michael’s Mount (Google Maps pin) is an absolute gem to visit in Cornwall. In fact, I’d say it’s one of the best areas in Cornwall to visit if you’re driving down the south coast or anchoring yourself in nearby St. Ives or Penzance.
Now, what makes St. Michael’s Mount is its stunning location, on a picturesque tidal island off the shores of Cornwall. Now, you might notice it has a very similar resemblance to Mont Saint-Michel in France. Well, it was built and influenced by its French counterpart many centuries ago. We won’t call out Cornwall as a copycat, but they certainly weren’t going to be left behind after France’s stunning construction!
Once here, you can wander around St Michael’s Mount, head inside the impressive buildings and spend a good two hours exploring the wider area of the island, the walled gardens and stop by the Harbour Loft for a light lunch.
Oh, and watch out for giants! Folklore from Cornwall suggests that St. Michael’s Mount was inhabited by Cormoran, a giant. The cave on the tidal island is where the giant is said to have (or does) live, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.
Also, don’t forget, you can book this private guide if you don’t fancy navigating all the winding roads and places whilst in Cornwall. This amazing private tour is with a fully qualified guide, and you can take up to six people with you. Plus, this guide completely tailors your trip depending on your likes and proximity. It’s an invaluable way to explore the wider region, without any of the stress of planning it yourself.
Read more: Best beaches in Cornwall to visit
2.) Minack Theatre
Easily one of England’s most impressive open-air theatres, the Minack Theatre is a place you can’t miss when visiting Cornwall. Also, it’s just down the road from nearby Penzance. Well, about 20 minutes in the car.
In the summer months, performances are held in the Minack Theatre. Specifically, from May to September. So, if you want to catch one, make sure your trip fits the theatre’s schedule. The first shows at the Minack Theatre were held almost 100 years ago, and as the years went by, the size of the venue also increased.
Though, don’t fret if you can’t make a show. You can still tour the Minack Theatre and explore the grounds here. Oh, and stop off at Porthcurno Beach (Google Maps pin), which the theatre overlooks. It’s a stunning little beach and a sandy paradise in Cornwall.
Read more: Best things to do when in Plymouth
3.) Rame Head
We think that Rame Head (Google Maps pin) is one of the best areas in Cornwall to visit if you’re staying in Plymouth, but fancy a little time in the nearby countryside.
Once here, follow the trails along the Rame Head Heritage Coast and stop off at St Michael’s Chapel (Google Maps pin). The stroll is totally lovely, especially if you can plan to visit around sunset. It’s just amazing.
Also, if you’re on a wider stroll of the coastline along Rame Head, make sure to spot Queen Adelaide’s Grotto (Google Maps pin), which is facing Cawsand Bay. The scenery is just breathtaking.
Getting peckish? Head to The Devonport Inn, which is just in nearby Kingsand. They do a tasty Sunday roast, and their baked camembert is so good.
Read more: Best things to do when in Plymouth
4.) Newquay
Newquay is one of the most well-known and best areas in Cornwall to visit, that’s gained traction over the last century. Known for its stunning beaches, surfing, and a vibrant nightlife, the town is a hive of activity, for what is a relatively small town in Cornwall.
If it’s beaches you’re after whilst visiting Newquay, make sure to visit Fistral Beach (Google Maps pin), Newquay Beach or Watergate Bay. The former two are within walk
ing distance of the town’s streets, and Watergate Bay is just up the road.
We had heaps of fun in Newquay and loved our stay at the Watergate Bay Hotel. They have gorgeous rooms and stunning restaurants if you’re looking for dinner by the beach.
If you’re spending some time in Newquay town itself, then make sure to stop off at the Concho Lounge for a delicious lunch. It’s such a chilled vibe and their milkshakes are so good, too. Also, another great spot for a sunset dinner is the Fort Inn. Their fish finger rolls are super yummy.
Read more: What it’s like to stay at Watergate Bay Hotel
5.) St Ives
Just shy of Penzance, St Ives is a gorgeous seaside town that’s well worth visiting when exploring Cornwall. In fact, the whole area around St Ives Bay is stunning, and the beaches here are beautiful.
Once here, make sure to pop into the Tate St Ives, which is one of the UK’s four iconic Tate galleries. Once inside, you’ll be able to explore the magnificent modern art collection housed in the exhibition rooms, here. It’s a stunning gallery, and well worth a gander when you’re in St Ives itself. Visits take around 45 minutes, and you can grab these advance tickets here.
Also, make sure to visit either Porthmeor Beach or Porthminster Beach for a little dip in the sunny summer weather. On the latter, you have the Porthminster Beach Cafe, and they have the freshest seafood in the area. We loved the mackerel and hake.
Read more: Best places to see on the coast of Cornwall
6.) Port Isaac
The tiny fishing village of Port Isaac (Google Maps pin) is located on Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast. This is a picturesque little town, and one of the best areas in Cornwall that you shouldn’t miss when driving down the northern coastline.
Now, you can easily spend a fair few relaxing hours in Port Isaac, and although it’s quite small, it’s lovely to explore on foot. Once here, make sure to stop off at The Golden Lion for a tasty lunch. Their freshly-caught mussels are so yummy. So is their sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
Afterwards, take a stroll around Port Isaac (it’s really small and super easy to walk around). You can, then, explore the little streets and stroll along the coastal walks as you take your time in Port Isaac.
If it’s beaches you’re after, head just outside Port Isaac to Polzeath Beach (Google Maps pin). It’s much less busy than some of the more popular spots in Cornwall, but no less pretty!
Read more: Best places to see on the coast of Cornwall
7.) Lizard Point
Lizard Point is the southernmost point of the UK and one of the best areas in Cornwall to explore for a ramble. You see, the whole area around Lizard Point is stunning, and this is an outcrop of land on Cornwall’s South Coast that is just incredible to visit, especially at sunset.
If you like natural beauty, Lizard Peninsula will easily fit right into your Cornwall plans, and it feels so untouched and unspoilt. We love the area.
When you’re in the area, you will surely walk along the Lizard Coastal walk, which leads inland and takes you back to where you started. The Kynance Cove (Google Maps pin) in the area is also a must-see. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of the best sunset spots in the UK.
Read more: Best castles in Cornwall to visit
8.) Fowey
Not too far from St Austell, Fowey (Google Maps pin) is a lovely seaside town to visit when travelling the southern shorelines of Cornwall. Now, it might be small, but it’s lovely to stroll around.
Once here, take a stroll to St Catherine’s Castle, which was built almost 500 years ago. Visits take around 40 minutes, and it’s so worth going inside the ruins to learn more about the castle and its noble residents. Best of all, visits are free.
Also, don’t forget to board the Fowey to Polruan boat. It’s just across the bay and takes mere minutes to navigate the waters. It’s a great town to visit for lunch, as you can head to the Lugger Inn for their yummy Sunday roasts.
9.) Falmouth
Falmouth may be one of the most famous holiday getaway destinations in Cornwall, and one spot that’s worth visiting if you want to visit a larger town.
This is where you’ll find the Fal River estuary, Pendennis Castle, Trebah Garden, the coastal fortress of Henry VIII and other beautiful beaches and independent shops. Talking of independent shops, you need to visit Beerwolf Books. It’s so quaint and they even have their pub for some local draught beers and gin.
Also, don’t forget about visiting the Falmouth Art Gallery, head inside the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and stroll the harbour front.
In my opinion, you don’t need to spend longer than half a day in Falmouth, but it’s certainly worth a stop if you’re driving around Cornwall.
Read more: Best castles in Cornwall to visit
10.) St. Agnes Head
The area around St Agnes Head and the heritage coastline is one of the best areas in Cornwall to explore for a ramble. The whole coastline here is stunning in the Cornish sunshine!
Now, there are quite a few hiking routes around the heritage coast, but whichever you choose, make sure to see the iconic Towanroath shaft ruins and Wheal Coates (Google Maps pin). Also, Chapel Porth Beach is perfect for a picnic, especially as it has easy parking (if it’s not too busy).
Read more: Best beaches in Cornwall to visit
11.) Tintagel
North Cornwall’s wild coast is mostly known as a place of legends, especially King Arthur! It’s one of the best areas in Cornwall to explore some of the region’s long history, especially around Tintagel.
Said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, Tintagel Castle is one of the area’s main attractions and a spot you shouldn’t miss. The 13th-century beauty is coupled with an epic setting including glassy slopes, dark cliffs, Rock Valley and Merlin’s Cave and is perfect for a wander around the ruins.
If you’re in the village of Tintagel, you can also stop off at the Old Post Office, which is also from the 1300s! The building is so historic. Oh, and another place you can check out is the Norman Church of St Materiana, where you can see a Roman milestone inside.
Read more: Best beaches in Cornwall to visit
12.) Penzance
Penzance is a larger town in Cornwall. Though relatively small by international standards. Being the last stop on the Great Western Train line, you can start exploring Cornwall from here if you take the train from London.
Now, Penzance is a great place to base yourself. You can also find hotels, shops and restaurants in Chapel Street before going to The Exchange Gallery, which is lovely for a little stroll. You can also head to the Jubilee Pool if you want to soak in the water but are not ready to swim in the sea. Though be warned, the water can be chilly! If you don’t like overly cold pools, you might want to skip this one.
Ofcourse, the town of Penzance is great in itself, but don’t forget you can easily check out Minack Theatre or St. Michael’s Mount when you’re in the area. Which, in my opinion, can’t be missed when visiting Cornwall.
Read more: Best things to do when in Penzance
13.) Land’s End
Yes, Land’s End is the actual end of England! From here, you’ll see the Celtic Sea to the west and the English Channel to the east. Truly a memorable spot and has become something of a milestone to reach for travellers in Cornwall.
Just make sure to take your picture at the Lands End Sign (Google Maps pin). Now, obviously, lots of people come here for the photo opportunity, but the wider region has quite a few key spots to see.
You can also join a coastal path from here to reach Sennen Cove or Gwynver Beach (Google Maps pin) are well worth a visit. They’re totally unspoilt and you don’t get the same crowds at beaches like in Newquay, for instance.
Read more: Best things to do when in Penzance
14.) Looe
On the south coast of Cornwall, between St Austell and Plymouth, Looe is a tiny little town that’s well worth a stop for a few hours whilst driving around the region.
Once here, be sure to spend some time on East Looe Beach (Google Maps pin). Here, you’ll be able to take a dip, and it’s a perfect place to spend a warm summer’s day in Cornwall. Also, don’t forget to pop into the Old Guildhall Museum & Gaol. It’s a small place that’s open in the Summer. It’s one of the best areas in Cornwall to have a totally relaxing day.
For lunch, pop by The Sardine Factory. Their Cornish crab linguine is so yummy.
Read more: Best beaches in Cornwall to visit
15.) The Eden Project
One of Cornwall’s most unique attractions is The Eden Project, which can’t be missed when visiting the region. Situated about five kilometres away from St. Austell, the Eden Project consists of huge domes which contain a botanical garden inside. We’ve always loved visiting, and the two huge adjoining homes are hexagonal biome-shaped paradises.
Once inside, you’ll be able to stroll around a complete rainforest biosphere that can be found on the larger dome, while a Mediterranean atmosphere can be experienced in the other dome. It’s so special and it’s open all year round.
On-site (and throughout the year) festivals, music performances and several activities are also held in The Eden Project. Oh, and don’t forget to ride the Skywire. It is England’s longest zipline!
Read more: Best beaches in Cornwall to visit
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