Welcome to Cornwall by Kingfisher Visitor Guides

H OUSE G AR DEN S AND

We have the best dressed statues

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DESIGN

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Creative Director

Paul Pensom

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PRODUCTION

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Find out why you should visit on pages 16-17...

Falmouth

Cornwall is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs – so make sure you bring a healthy appetite.

Only here for the weekend? Fear not! Here are some ideas for a memorable short break. Culture Club 60

Culture vultures assemble! Cornwall offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals.

The night-time economy is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs, bars and music venues.

Although Cornwall has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure.

This

wonderful county draws visitors back like a magnet year after year

Welcome, visitor!

Brace yourself for beach life, beguiling landscapes, gastronomic delights and worldfamous cultural hotspots. Cornwall has shaken off its chintzy, bucket-and-spade reputation and replaced it with stylish coastal living.

Beyond Caribbean-white sands await World Heritage landscapes, beautiful biking trails and a smorgasbord of watersports. So, don a wetsuit and hit the surf, lace up your walking boots to trace the rise and fall of the coast path, or soak up gob-smacking scenery from a swanky seaside bar.

Cornwall boasts an array of attractions for all seasons: marvel at mega stars like the Eden Project, fall in love with picturesque fishing villages and get under the skin of the Cornish culture through art, literature and legend.

Shopping in Cornwall is a real treat, too, whether you’re looking for an offbeat gift, a piece of art or a sustainable wetsuit, you’ll find it here. What’s more, you’ll get to do your

browsing in some of the prettiest towns and villages of the UK.

You can get a taste for sumptuous food at the end of a hard day’s shopping at a number of Cornwall’s award-winning restaurants. Our must-visits include Paul Ainsworth at No.6, Padstow; Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, Port Isaac; Culture, Falmouth; The Sardine Factory, Looe; and Penrose Kitchen, Truro.

Culture and heritage

If you’re a culture vulture, you’re in luck in Cornwall. This county has inspired artists and writers for centuries, and they continue to flock here to make the most of the landscapes and the light. Seek out their work in the county’s galleries and follow in the footsteps of literary luminaries on Cornwall’s heritage trails.

Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you can always be assured of finding something exciting to do, tasty to eat or interesting to explore. ■

Newquay Beach

Silver Origins

Silver Origins is a local, family-run, independent jewellery brand offering unique and original designs since 1972. Three generations of the family are now involved in the day to day running of the business, based near St Michaels mount with their highly successful stores nearby in Marazion and St Ives.

Exclusively designed in West Cornwall inspiration is taken from the spectacular local area, with collections that capture the essence of Cornwall and the stunning natural beauty and lifestyle of our coastal community. Specialising in 925 sterling silver, a timeless precious metal with intrinsic value and beauty combined.

Designed in house and headed by creative director Marcus Price, the collections evolve from the iconic backdrop of sub-tropical gardens, rugged beaches, sea

life and wild landscape and dramatic history.

A truly unique setting that provides endless natural and organic shapes, sculptured and weathered rocks and pebbles, textures and finishes for ideas that are translated into original silver jewellery. The designs start as a simple idea or pencil sketch and are redrawn and changed until the final design is produced to scale ready for the mould maker and highly skilled silversmiths to make the actual piece.

The designs are finished by hand with attention to detail at every stage to create a high-quality, beautiful jewellery.

Many items also feature semi-precious stones or gold vermeil to enhance the spirit and story of the piece.

Silver Origins designs are aspirational, original,

and form an individual statement for each person. Each collection is unique from the fun and whimsical to eternally romantic, or embodies the delicacy and strength of Mother Nature and celebrates our dramatic surroundings.

There is a cornucopia of designs to suit every style and taste which are available in store or online.

Visiting the stores is a real treat and a shopper’s paradise with so much choice available whether it’s a little personal retail therapy or finding that perfect gift for a loved one. Situated in the ancient market town or Marazion or the flagship store in the quirky town of St Ives. Chic contemporary displays showcase the extensive designs and make choosing fun and easy, with new and exciting designs continually

and striking jewellery at very affordable prices with fabulous luxury gift boxes to complete the gift.

Experienced staff are on hand to help and guide you through the vast range of earrings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets and bangles and being an independent company we pride ourselves on a more personal and individual service.

If rings are your passion then don’t miss the fantastic ring bar displays where you can literally try on every style and size of ring imaginable!

If you can’t get to the stores, sit back and shop safely and securely on the websites: silverorigins. com or the heritage range available at celticlands. co.uk. Silver Origins creates keepsakes to be cherished and lovingly worn again

Cast away to St Michael’s Mount

Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims and a legendary giant when you cross the causeway to this sea-bound castle. On the island you can hunt for the giant’s stone heart, stand in the firing line of bygone battles and explore sub-tropical gardens. Browse the island shops and take Afternoon Tea in the Harbour Loft. Wait for the tide to come in and hop back to the mainland by boat. Book tickets online and in advance at stmichaelsmount.co.uk.

T. 01736 887822 E. enquiries@stmichaelsmount.co.uk

St Michael’s Mount, Marazion, Cornwall TR17 OHS www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk

Five Star Award-Winning Holiday Park

Luxury Eco Lodges | Cottages | Holiday Homes | Touring & Camping

Located in the rolling Cornish countryside above the beautiful seaside town of Bude in North Cornwall, Wooda is a family-run holiday park offering a variety of luxury self-catering accommodation and touring & camping pitches.

including Restaurant & Bar, Coffee Lounge, Cocktail Bar, Takeaway, Nature Trail, Woodland Walks, Farm Animals, Tennis Court, Badminton Court, Gym, Pitch ‘n’ Putt, Secure Dog Field and Playground to name a few, Wooda has something for everyone to create holiday memories that will last a lifetime! adventure awaits..

With beautiful sea views, five-star facilities and a range of on-site features including Restaurant & Bar, Coffee Lounge, Cocktail Bar, Takeaway, Nature Trail, Woodland Walks, Farm Animals, Tennis Court, Badminton Court, Gym, Pitch ‘n’ Putt, Secure Dog Field and Playground to name a few, Wooda has something for everyone to create holiday memories that will last a lifetime! adventure awaits..

Luxury Eco Lodges | Cottages | Holiday Homes | Touring & Camping

With beautiful sea views, five-star facilities and a range of on-site features

www.wooda.co.uk | stay@wooda.co.uk | 01288 352 069 |

Cornwall offers an abundance of things to do with days out and top attractions for the whole family to enjoy

Great days out

While it’s the beaches and coastline that put Cornwall on the holiday map, there’s much more to do here than surfing and sandcastles. Plunge into coastal adventures on a wild swimming trip, cycle across World Heritage landscapes or cast away by boat and feel the wind in your hair.

Despite its many visitor attractions, Cornwall’s stunning coastal scenery is still the highlight, luring tourists since the early 1900s. From the Atlantic-lashed Sennen Cove to the sweeping sand and shingle of Sandymouth, there are beaches to suit everyone, including bathers, ornithologists and even naturists.

Cornwall is a dream destination for family holidays. Aside from the miles of golden

Disembark at dreamy Porthminster Beach and spend a day meandering around the galleries

coastline, you can entertain the kids on trains, in museums, at the zoo and at a selection of stunning fairytale castles.

One of the best ways to take in the scenery is by rail. Hop on the scenic coastal railway from St Erth to St Ives and you can take in the landscapes that have inspired the many artists that have lived here over the years.

Disembark at dreamy Porthminster Beach and spend a day meandering around the galleries of this fishing-village-turned-artists’colony, then hop on the train for a sunset ride back along the coast.

Or why not try the Looe Valley Line Rail Ale Trail – stopping to sample local ales in a series of characterful country inns along one

Porthminster Beach, St Ives

of the Great Scenic Railways of Devon and Cornwall?

Launceston Steam Railway is an enchanting narrow-gauge railway offering train rides through the unspoilt countryside of the Kensey Valley. All trains are hauled by lovingly restored Victorian steam locomotives.

Scenic ferry hops include the Black Tor ferry between Rock to Padstow – where you can pad along golden beaches and dine out in some of the county’s top foodie spots – and the Megavissey to Fowey Ferry, where there’s a good chance of spotting dolphins along the way.

If you’re in Southeast Cornwall, cross the border on the boat cruise from Cawsand to Plymouth’s waterfront Barbican and spend a day gawping at sea life in the National Marine Aquarium.

If you want to explore further afield book a day trip on the Scillonian Ferry from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly – a stunning archipelago 28 miles from Land’s End.

If the weather takes a turn, there are plenty of all-weather attractions to entertain the kids. Try the Tide Climbing Centre near Padstow, or the climbing walls at Penryn’s Granite Planet. Kidzworld Adventure Play in St Austell is a year-round indoor and outdoor activity centre, with dodgems, minigolf, roller

skating and soft play.

In Newquay you can bounce around at the indoor Trampoline and Play Park, or dive into the underwater world without getting wet at the Blue Reef Aquarium.

The Eden Project’s iconic biomes are still one of Cornwall’s biggest attractions, where you can ice skate in winter, visit the rainforest in every season and get interactive at exhibitions spotlighting the natural world. It’s also home to England’s longest and fastest zip wire, as well an aerial assault course and l

L Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay I The Eden Project

Welcome to Falmouth

Falmouth has been shaped and inﬂuenced by its strong connection to the sea. Combining a fascinating maritime heritage with a strong creative streak, Falmouth is building a name for itself as one of the South West’s leading cultural and festival destinations.

You will ﬁnd a bustling high street ﬁlled with independent businesses nestled alongside high street names. Falmouth is also home to numerous beaches which offer a wide range of water sports and activites. From paddleboarding off Gyllyngvase to rock pooling along Castle Beach, there is plenty of exploring to do along Falmouth’s special coastline.

Did you

Falmouth has the third largest, natural deep-water harbour in the world. know?

From attractions like the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Princess Pavilion, Falmouth Art Gallery, Pendennis Castle, and The Poly, to great community spaces such as Falmouth Skatepark and Kimberley Park, there's plenty to experience in Falmouth!

Art Gallery

Cornwall’s largest fortress. Over 450 years of history can be traced from its origins as one of Henry VIII’s coastal strongholds to its last military role as a secret World War II base. english-heritage.org.uk

Falmouth

Pendennis Castle

Princess Pavilion

Exciting Events

We love a good festival in Falmouth! From shanty to sailing, scan the QR code to browse Falmouth’s year-round events programme…

A Diverse High Street

Falmouth has a bustling centre, ﬁlled with an eclectic mix of specialist shops, galleries and marine businesses.

Falmouth also has one of the strongest food and drink scenes in the south west. You will ﬁnd a range of quality, niche operators offering anything from Japanese and South African, to Caribbean and award-winning vegan. All inspired by their superb, coastal location.

•

Welcome to Penelewey Tours Cornwall, your gateway to discovering Cornwall’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breath-taking landscapes. Explore hidden gems and iconic landmarks with me, Becky as your guide. Get ready to create unforgettable memories as you explore this remarkable corner of England with Penelewey Tours Cornwall.

E. peneleweytours@yahoo.com T. 07793129115 peneleweytours.co.uk

The Gallery has a special exhibition programme and its speciality is work by the Newlyn and Lamorna artists. The museum covers over 6,000 years of history in West Cornwall.

A beautiful gallery and museum set in acres of gardens

Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Morrab Road, Penzance TR18 4HE 01736 363625 • www.penleehouse.org.uk

Penlee House is the artistic heart of West Cornwall’s history

giant swing.

Want to get up close to Cornwall’s wildlife? Meet rescued seal pups dipping and diving their way to recovery at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek, and spot dolphins, seals and the occasional whale from Lizard Point on the dramatic Lizard Peninsula. For something a little different you could witness lobsters at different stages of their life cycle at the National Lobster Hatchery in Padstow, which celebrates its 25th anniversary next year.

A day at Newquay Zoo is always a real crowd-pleaser, where you can stroll from the African Savannah to Madagascar, observing more than 100 species of wildlife from lions to poison dart frogs.

Both the Screech Owl Sanctuary (near Newquay) and Paradise Park (in Hayle) put on incredible free-flying bird shows. In addition to its many species of exotic birds, Paradise Park has farm animals and a huge soft play barn that lures visitors on even the rainiest days.

Another family-friendly attraction not to be missed is Hidden Valley, where you can follow puzzle trails, find your way to the forbidden mansion and take in the village of Tremuddlewick! Watch the miniature railway travel through landscaped gardens, get lost in the maze, hop on the Porterswick Junction

Light Railway and arrive back at the café for a snack.

Cornwall’s natural beauty may have drawn you here, but don’t miss out on the county’s rich history – particularly its majestic castles. Wait for low tide and you can cross the causeway to St Michael’s Mount, walking in the footsteps of pilgrims and a legendary giant as you climb to the turrets of the mighty fortress.

Even more beguiling are the remains of Tintagel Castle, a crumbling edifice atop a l

L St Michael’s Mount I Newquay Zoo

BOAT TRIPS

As a local family-owned business, a team established for over 20 years, we pride ourselves on offering the highest customer service on land and at sea. We offer daily boat trips departing from St Ives Harbour and are confident that you won’t be disappointed. We offer 1 hour Seal Island/Godrevy Lighthouse trips, 2 hour extended sea safaris, sunset cruises, private charters, special occasion trips and Mackerel fishing. We are consistently rated 5* on Google, Trip Advisor and Facebook, making us St Ives most top rated operator overall.

Find us on St Ives harbour (Wharf Road), postcode TR26 1LP. Opposite Mor Cafe and The Sloop pub - we’re at the red umbrella! www.stivesboatcruises.co.uk (online booking available) 07888213131 (Text or WhatsApp)

Whether you’re a young animal lover or simply young at heart, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary promises a day brimming with discovery, learning, and fun!

A magical place for visitors of all ages, from 0 to 100! Nestled on the beautiful Helford River, the sanctuary is home to resident Grey and Common seals, Icelandic rescue Puffins and Eurasian Beavers; each with their own unique story to tell.

Visit our rescued pups before they’re returned to the wild, take the dog on one of our woodland walks and re-discover nature at Secret Creek.

Book tickets online 2 days in advance to take advantage of our 20% discount.

T. 01326 221361

E. seals@sealifetrust.com

Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek nr Helston TR12 6UG

sealsanctuary.sealifetrust.com

Experience a day on the Isles of Scilly...

With white sand beaches that are less crowded than mainland Cornwall, crystal clear water, and an ambiance unlike anywhere else… the Isles of Scilly is an archipelago that you must visit, even if just for a day.

Boarding Scillonian III passenger ferry for your island adventure

Seeing the islands from the sky with Skybus

Officially recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Isles of Scilly is a place that feels further away than it really is, with the journey taking as little as 20 minutes from Land’s End via Skybus, or 2 hours 45 minutes to reach by the Scillonian III passenger ferry from Penzance. With its proximity to Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly is the perfect location for a trip to truly treasure.

In 2024 Scillonian III’s ferry route was announced as the most diverse route for wildlife spotting in the UK for the second year in a row by charity ORCA. Finding an outdoor seat and arming yourself with a handy pair of binoculars offers fantastic opportunities for dolphin spotting, and there can be whale, puffin, and other wildlife sightings too. Alongside the interesting bird and marine life spotting opportunities, sailing into the islands via Scillonian offers an unforgettable introduction. Seeing the islands by sea, passing the stretches of sand and spotting iconic Isles of Scilly landmarks is a truly exciting part of a day trip to the Isles of Scilly.

Day trip fares for Scillonian III can be as little as £35 for a return, and £25 for Cornish residents.

Why not try our Fly+Sail day trip package where you can experience two different ways of travelling across the Atlantic. By flying into the islands from Land’s End you can see the islands from above and enjoy ‘real flying’, watching the pilots at work in the cockpit. You will reach St Mary’s in less than 20 minutes, giving you up to an extra 2-and-a-half hours on the islands, plenty of time to explore an off-island, take to the waters, or discover St Mary’s by foot or pedal. Then enjoy the views and make the most of the wildlife-spotting opportunities on Scillonian III as you make your way home.

You can also visit for a day by Skybus year-round from Land’s End, to enjoy both a view of the islands from above and being able to make the most of a day on the islands.

SCILLONIAN III

PASSENGER FERRY

SCILLY CART HIRE ST MARY’S

A family day out

DOG FRIENDLY TRAVEL SCILLONIAN & SKYBUS

Create memories that the whole family will remember – from finding starfish on a rockpool safari, exploring the island on bike or in a golf buggy, or having a picnic on the beach in a place unlike anywhere else.

Dog friendly day trips

The islands are famously dog friendly – and so are our Scillonian III and Land’s End Skybus routes – so there is no need to leave your four-legged friend at home. From beaches and coast paths that are perfect for exploring with your dog, to watersports centres which supply dog life-jackets, the Isles of Scilly are suitable for all, furry friends included.

SEVEN STONES INN ST MARTIN’S

Do something different

The islands offer plenty of opportunities for doing something different. Whether that be learning more about wine on a vineyard tour, getting out in the water for a swim or paddle or trying new foods – there is something for everyone.

Enjoy a foodie experience

From alfresco dining where you can enjoy the taste of deliciously fresh and locally-caught seafood to enjoying ice cream made fresh from the island’s own cow’s milk, food on the islands is local, fresh, and always served with a friendly smile.

Experience island life in a day

The Isles of Scilly have all you need for an island adventure. With kayaks and stand-up paddle boards available to hire on every island, a variety of beaches that stretch out to secluded coves hidden off the beaten track, and art studios set in idyllic huts that you can visit as you wander… life on the islands is different to mainland Cornwall.

These are just are some of the things that make the islands a perfect day out this summer.

No matter what it is that you do, with the Isles of Scilly based just 28 miles from the coast of Cornwall, there is a myriad of things to do and places to explore that are just wating to be discovered.

DAY TRIPS FROM JUST £35 ISLESOFSCILLY-TRAVEL.CO.UK

HOUSE and GARDENS

50 acres of tranquil gardens to explore

Guided house tour revealing the secrets of this enchanting house and ancient family

Peacock Café: homemade cakes & delicious light lunches

Garden and house trails for kids - plus under 16’s go free in gardens!

Dog friendly gardens with lots of woodland to run off-lead

Open: 1st March - 31st October

House, cafe, shop open every day except Saturdays from April to end of October Check website for exact opening times and our latest events

Washaway, Bodmin, PL30 3AG

Tel: 01208 841369

Email: info@pencarrow.co.uk

www.pencarrow.co.uk

We have the best dressed statues

rocky, sea-lashed promontory, where a lifesized bronze sculpture nods to the legend that it was here King Arthur was magically conceived.

If you want to experience the sights and sounds of battle, you’ll love the interactive exhibits at Henry VIII’s iconic Pendennis Castle, which protects the world’s third deepest natural harbour at the entrance to the River Fal.

Falmouth stands out for its rich maritime history, and you can discover its seafaring heritage at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. The town’s scenery is dominated by the comings and goings of boats and cruise ships from the harbour.

You’ve probably come to Cornwall because of the stunning coast and countryside. And luckily for you there are fantastic ways to get out and enjoy it. Follow coastal paths on foot or by bike, navigate the waters in a kayak or enjoy old-fashioned seaside fun at one of the county’s glorious beaches.

If you’re a real water baby, why not try a guided wild swimming tour with Sea Swim Cornwall? You’ll get to search for sea horses along the Helford, discover hidden coves on the Lizard Peninsula and even join the legendary mermaids on the pristine and wild West Coast of Cornwall.

You’ll love the interactive exhibits

at Henry VIII’s iconic Pendennis Castle

If you prefer a little more paddle power, the best way to explore the nooks and crannies of the coastline is on a stand-up paddleboard. There are SUP schools and hire outlets scattered along the coastline offering everything from short intro sessions to multiday expeditions.

Cornwall’s glorious coastline is a magnet for surfers. From the Lizard Peninsula to the northern reaches of Bude there’s no shortage of surf schools, hire outlets and surf shops to ensure you’re kitted out and ready to ride the waves.

Sign up for lessons at KingSurf in Mawgan Porth, or if you’re looking to surf with your kids, tap up Falmouth Surf School, which has surfing sessions for kids and teens. Big Blue Surf School in Bude offers adaptive lessons for people who are neurodiverse or who have physical disabilities. l

Pendennis Castle, Falmouth

Hand-crafted chocolates and more in Mullion

Visit the chocolate shop and welcoming café at Trenance Chocolate Factory & Craft Centre, as well as exploring independent shops and galleries.

Delectable chocolates, hand-made here in Cornwall

Where else but Cornwall would you find perfect little chocolate pasties? Here at Trenance Chocolate Factory in Mullion, we take fine Belgian couverture and give it our own Cornish twist, creating delicious chocolate pasties, bars and boxed selections.

Our family has been making quality chocolates in our Mullion workshops since 2002. We dip, fill and decorate each piece by hand, but still manage to produce around 400 chocolate bars and 700 individual chocolates every day!

If you visit Trenance Chocolate Shop on a weekday, you’ll be able to see the chocolatiers at work. Left Cornwall and missing our truffles or drinking chocolate? We offer a mail order service across mainland UK, including our luxurious bespoke chocolate boxes.

Visit trenancechocolate.co.uk to find all your favourites.

Call into our café

The Meadows Kitchen Coffee Shop is just next door to the Chocolate Factory (guess where the gorgeous chocolate comes from?), serving home-cooked lunches, freshly baked cakes and more-ish Cornish ice cream.

Relax on the terrace on a sunny day, or snuggle up near the wood burner if it’s cool outside. We’re so lucky to have so many excellent food producers here in Cornwall, and we use local ingredients wherever we can. A classic cream tea is a must during your visit, and our full Cornish breakfasts are legendary.

Discover Cornish arts and crafts

Explore our community of independent shops and galleries, selling a wonderful variety of Cornish gifts and art.

You can easily spend an enjoyable morning or afternoon browsing for original mementos, or even join in with one of the regular art workshops held at the Centre.

Our lovely Lizard location

You’ll find Trenance Chocolate Factory & Craft Centre in Mullion Meadows, surrounded by lush green fields and just a pebble’s throw from Mullion Cove.

There are footpaths around the site (say hello to our friendly llamas as you explore!), and with the famous South West Coast Path on our doorstep, we’re the perfect place to pause on your walk.

By car, we’re a short drive from Mullion village: just follow signs to the Cove, and look out for our free customer car park.

Visiting Trenance Chocolate Factory & Craft Centre

You’ll find delicious chocolates, cream teas and more at: The Chocolate Factory & Craft Centre

Mullion Meadows, Mullion, Helston TR12 7HB

Email: info@the-chocolatefactory.co.uk

Tel: 01326 241311

Please check our website for opening times and further information: trenancechocolate.co.uk

HOW TO FIND US

Our E18hteen Gin is expertly crafted from sugar beat vodka produced by master distillers. This enables us to give you the very best yield and makes our artisan gin flavoursome, fragrant and smooth. We are among a minority of distilleries that opt to create their gin this way, meaning our gin delivers unrivalled freshness, taste and the perfect finish to the palate.

We are proud to source local produce for the making of our premium vodka, including sugar beet, for an outstandingly bold, smooth and aromatic blend. After creating our distinct vodka, we re-distil it to create our reputable, first-class gin. We have received a number of gold and silver awards for our gins, vodkas and rums.

Botanicals

Our distiller has mastered the production of gin with a delicious selection of botanicals – thrilling and awakening to the senses. Our juniper led gin, standing at a mighty 88% vol, is re-distilled in copper pot alembic stills, for a delicious and crisp mix. Fused with mouth-watering botanicals, including juniper, hand-picked apples, citrus fruit and tasty macadamia, our E18hteen Gin evokes the scent of the fresh Somerset countryside.

Notes & Tones

You can expect delectable and surprising notes and tones in our quality range of gins – tantalising the taste buds. Our smooth blends boast flavours like no other, taking its signature hints from our seasonal fruit’s selection, carefully picked from the orchards throughout the autumn months. With its desirable flavours, unique textures and premium quality, our gin will quickly become your staple for entertaining loved ones.

Finish

We aim to keep our products as natural as possible. Non-chill filtered, for the uninterrupted, distinctive finish of suspended botanical oils.

Our gin is enticingly aromatic and offers a luxurious mouthfeel.

Add a fresh slice of apple, pear, orange or grapefruit as the perfect finishing touch.

You could also explore the nooks and crannies of the coastline under paddle power on a guided kayaking adventure with Koru Kayaking – paddling through caves and gullies, spotting seals and discovering smuggler’s coves. Want something a little faster? How about a jet-ski adventure along the Newquay coastline with Cornwall Waverunner Safaris?

For something more relaxing head to the Art Deco Jubilee Pool in Penzance – the UK’s largest sea water pool, where you can now bask in a brand new geo-thermally heated section and fuel up in the cool poolside café.

There’s no better way to experience the wave-hewn landscapes than at walking pace from the South West Coast Path. Some of the toughest sections of coastline await between Bude and Morwenstow, where calf-busting climbs etch the rise and fall of cliffs that collapse onto rocky beaches. By contrast, the mile-and-a-half of well-maintained path between Daymer Bay and surfy Polzeath is easily accessible with a buggy.

If you want to visit some of Cornwall’s most picturesque fishing villages, tread the coastal path to the likes of Portloe, Mousehole and Port Isaac – the latter starring in Doc Martin and the Hollywood blockbuster Fisherman’s Friends.

Easily accessible with buggies and wheelchairs is one of the most visited destinations in Cornwall – Land’s End. It’s at this most westerly tip of the UK that the mainland peters out into 3,000 miles of ocean rolling all the way to America. If you prefer a more rugged hike and want to avoid the camera-wielding crowds, head for nearby Cape Cornwall, where two oceans meet and seabirds swirl around the Brisons Rocks.

As well as its breathtaking walking trails, Cornwall is home to a diverse selection of l

L Port Isaac I South West Coast Path

Discover the wonderful and weird National Lobster Hatchery ‘hidden’ on the banks of the Camel Estuary

One of the counties pioneering conservation projects is located in the picturesque town of Padstow, and more than likely you might have walked right past its pink hued exterior. But delve a little deeper and you will discover this small but mighty charity has done and continues to carry out fascinating and forward-thinking work in supporting the long-term survival of some of our most beloved marine life. Come and discover The National Lobster Hatchery in 2025.

The doors opened back in 2000 making this year particularly special as the charity celebrates 25 years; So what’s it all about? The team at The National Lobster Hatchery have spent decades working with a network of local fishers, some of which you might be able to see as you stroll around the nearby harbour. Together they work towards a common goal of avoiding a stock collapse of the European Lobster.

Discover more at their interactive and interesting visitor centre, fun for all the family as you spend a couple of hours with the team who will inspire and educate all ages in local marine life, conservation here in Cornwall, and of course a whole load of lobsters! Alongside a program of seasonal activities and events, you can experience one of the only conservation projects in the world open to the public, giving you a sneak peek into what goes into conservation in action, a truly fascinating time for all the family. (Including the dog)

Have you ever seen a baby lobster? Most will say no when asked, spotting one in the wild is very rare. However, in the centre’s lobster ‘nursery’, you can get up close to the teeny tiny newborns and their mums in the centres dedicated ‘maternity ward’. During the spring and summer months, the hatchery team will share the details of where and when they will be releasing the lobster babies. A unique opportunity to help release a baby lobster into the ocean, with a significantly improved chance of making it to adulthood and beyond.

Something a little different, and a visit that really makes a difference, with every penny going to towards their ongoing work be sure to add The National Lobster Hatchery to your plans for your time in Cornwall. For more from the team and to purchase a ticket visit nationallobsterhatchery.co.uk or find them on social media @padstowlobster

Lanhydrock House and Garden cycle routes. Family favourites include the easy, traffic-free Camel Trail between Padstow and Bodmin Moor, and the 11-mile coast-tocoast trail from Porteath to Devoran.

National Trust’s Lanhydrock has a skills area and bike trails graded for all abilities –from toddlers on tag-a-longs to proficient mountain bikers, while intermediate cyclists will enjoy the more challenging Beast of Bodmin Trail at Cardinham Woods.

If you’re serious about mountain biking, brace yourself for adrenalin-pumping downhills and the ease of an uplift at Cornwall’s first purpose-built bike park –Woody’s. Also worth checking out are the Tamar Trails, enticing all abilities to explore off-road on the border of Cornwall and Devon.

Looking for a proper, extended adventure?

The new West Kernow Way is a 230km circular bikepacking route following ancient tracks and coastal paths past some of the Cornish peninsula’s most spectacular sights, including Land’s End, Bronze Age monument Mên-an-Tol and St Michael’s Mount.

There are plenty of garden wonderlands blooming in the county’s sub-tropical climate including the historic Lost Gardens of Heligan, where you can tunnel through bamboo, banana palms and gigantic rhubarb plants to ancient woodlands and

National Trust’s Lanhydrock has a skills area and bike trails graded for all abilities

water meadows.

Another firm favourite with families – and dogs, too – is Trebah Garden, where you can wend through colourful foliage to a divine sandy beach perfect for skimming pebbles.

Garden lovers should also make a beeline for Pencarrow House & Gardens. Tucked away on the edge of Bodmin Moor, this Georgian gem offers plenty for everyone. Explore the well-maintained house before letting the kids (and dogs) run wild in the expansive grounds, from its formal landscaped gardens to quiet ancient woodland.

Cornwall is an intoxicating mix of stunning countryside, sublime beaches and characterful towns and villages bursting with creativity. Not to mention the historic homes and castles that scatter the countryside. In short, there’s everything you need for an unforgettable break! ■

DON’T MISS

Our top things to see and do when visiting this picturesque region

Take the train to St Ives Hop aboard one of the most scenic train lines in Britain and gaze out at gob-smacking coastal landscapes that have lured artists to this fishing village since the 19th century. Disembark beside Porthminster Beach, then take a spin around this arty town, taking in the famous Tate St Ives, Barbara Hepworth’s Sculpture Garden and The Leach Pottery.

2

Cast away to St Michael’s Mount I

Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims and a legendary giant when you cross the causeway to this great seabound castle. On the island you can hunt for the giant’s stone heart, stand in the firing line of bygone battles and explore the beautiful sub-tropical gardens. Wait for the tide to come in and hop back to the mainland by boat or amphicraft.

3 A taste of Cornwall

Whether you’re into fine dining or foraging, Cornwall is a gastronomes hotspot where talented chefs serve up lip-smacking ingredients grown, reared and plucked from the coast and countryside. Staples include ice cream made from Jersey cows grazing by the ocean, and seafood so fresh it goes straight from rod to pan.

Cycle from coast-to-coast

Freewheel through World Heritage landscapes as you follow 15 miles of disused mineral tramways from coast-to-coast. From Portreath on the Atlantic coast to Devoran in the south, this easy off-road cycle route wends through historic mining, woodland and coastal territory, all the way to the traditional creekside watering hole of Devoran’s Old Quay Inn.

Go surfing at Fistral Beach l Many of Cornwall’s pro surfers cut their teeth on the waves at Fistral, and it’s the beach that put Newquay on the map as the UK’s surfing capital. Home to numerous surfing outlets and expert instructors, there are few better places to get to grips with the art of wave riding and immerse yourself in the county’s surfy lifestyle.

Play lighthouse keeper

Set foot on the tip of the Lizard Peninsula and you’re on the most southerly point of mainland Britain. As well as witnessing the stunning seascapes where cute seals and basking sharks often make an appearance, you can also visit the Lizard Lighthouse Heritage Centre to climb the tower, sound a foghorn, track ships and learn Morse code.

7 Party on the beach

From rock bands on the beach to full-throttle festivals, Cornwall’s calendar is jam-packed with lots of great music events where you can dance with your feet in the sand. Watch the sunset over the sea and get down to international headliner acts at Tunes in the Dunes, the Lusty Glaze Sundowner Sessions and the epic Boardmasters festival.

8 Visit chic fishing villages

When Cornwall’s fishing fleets declined in the 19th century a new wave of holidaymakers made a beeline for Cornwall’s picturesque fishing villages. Now the likes of St Ives, St Mawes and Mousehole have been transformed into stylish seaside destinations that still retain a hint of the traditional fishing villages they once were.

Cornwall’s highest peaks I Head to the wild territory of Bodmin Moor to scale Cornwall’s two highest peaks – Rough Tor (400m) and Brown Willy (420m). It’s a relatively easy walk across rolling moorland littered with prehistoric remains, and from the summits you can enjoy far-reaching countryside and coastal views.

See sub-tropical gardens

Aside from the mega-star Eden Project, Cornwall is home to an abundance of garden wonderlands thriving with sub-tropical species gathered by the globetrotting plant hunters of the 19th century. Picnic in carpets of bluebells, tunnel through bamboo jungles, take shelter under giant gunnera or play hide-andseek in magical woodland. Our must-visits include The Lost Gardens of Heligan and Trebah Garden. ■

Climb

SHOPPING

Shopaholics will love this region for its eclectic mix of boho-chic boutiques, high-street staples and quirky independents

Forget high streets and shopping malls. While you will find mainstream chain stores, shopping in Cornwall is focused on local producers, unique boutiques and independent labels. Pick up some surf gear, browse markets for fresh local food and drink and buy art and crafts made by local artisans and inspired by the coastal lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for an offbeat gift, a piece of art or a sustainable wetsuit, you’ll find it in Cornwall. What’s more you’ll get to do your browsing in some of the prettiest towns and villages of the UK.

Silver Origins jewellery has stores in St Ives and Marazion

If you love to shop, earmark a day to hit Cornwall’s only city: Truro. Here you’ll find everything from vintage fashion to funky shoe shops to food emporiums lining the cobbled streets, overlooked by the grand cathedral. Dip into Lemon Street Market to fill your tins at The Refill Store (which was Cornwall’s very first zero-waste shop), get your hands on chic gifts and homewares at Wish and buy flowers, plants and artisan pots at the Flower Press.

If you’re an arty type you’ll want to dive into Truro Arts Company for supplies of

everything from canvas to charcoal, while also checking out the exhibition space and fuelling up in the café.

Combining the best of Cornish craftsmanship with a contemporary twist, Canary Blue is well worth a visit. This independent and luxury jeweller sells exquisite engagement, wedding and eternity rings as well as beautifiul silver, pearl and dress jewellery.

Based in the heart of Truro, Ethica Diamonds showcases a selection of jewellery from pendants to earrings, bracelets to engagement rings. This award-winning, ethical jeweller specialises in fine jewellery using the utmost sustainable materials and precious stones, namely lab-grown diamonds and gemstones.

Truro’s also home to one the UK’s few branches of clothing and lifestyle brand Busby & Fox, for all things beautiful from silk dresses to homeware.

St Ives is a gorgeous huddle of craft shops, galleries, surf shacks and independent bookstores, all just a pebble’s throw from the sea. If you want to unearth one-off artisan gems and meet their makers, head to the little enclave of studios at Sloop Craft Market or Back Road Artworks, where you can get your hands on the likes of stained glass, driftwood sculptures and beach-inspired jewellery.

Handcrafted jewellery

Silver Origins jewellery, with stores in St Ives and Marazion, has its roots in Cornwall’s untouched natural beauty and captures the lifestyle and striking landscape in its designs. Exquisitely handcrafted in sterling silver and finished with subtle textures and semiprecious stones to enhance the spirit of each piece.

The town’s arty offerings include Jo Downs Handmade Glass, which sells glasswork inspired by the Cornish coast, and St Ives Ceramics – once the workshop of potter John Bedding and now a gallery of the best in contemporary studio pottery.

Down at the harbour, Gallery 38 has a unique collection of glass, jewellery, ceramics and art by British creatives.

Head to Anima Mundi Gallery, on Streetan-Pol, and check out its insightful collection of contemporary work from around the globe, some of which you can purchase to take home.

For prints and souvenirs by some of Cornwall’s greatest artists and writers, take a spin around the gift shop at the Tate St Ives – and while you’re there head up to the roof terrace and take in the views that have inspired artists for centuries.

Booklovers are well served by St Ives Bookseller, an independent gem with a particularly strong children’s section – they even have their own imprint publishing children’s picture books with a Cornish theme.

In the bohemian market town of Penzance, you can stroll along the Victorian promenade, take a dip in the Art Deco lido and enjoy a shopping spree in contemporary and classic arty haunts.

If you’re into contemporary art, jewellery and sculptures make a beeline for the Lighthouse Gallery or Morrab Studio. Or walk along the promenade and check out The Edge of the World Bookshop for interesting reads.

Galleries and gift shops

Nudge onto Mousehole and you’ll find a cluster of galleries and gift shops around the harbour, including The Ark, where you can meet a local pewter craftsman who makes jewellery and ornaments by hand.

Walk the other way from Penzance and you will hit Marazion, a waterside village well-endowed with galleries and gift shops. You can grab gorgeous gifts from local makers at Morva and discover a collection of jewellery inspired by the Cornish coastline at Silver Origins.

Hayle’s shopping game is strong – and not just because of the popular West Cornwall Shopping Park. Glam up with unique fashion items at Dune Boutique, deck yourself out with the latest eco-friendly surfing gear in Down the Line and discover a thriving community of independent makers, designers and artists in the historic Old Foundry Chapel.

Want to make a day of it? Wadebridge is crammed with music shops, fashion boutiques and quirky gift stores, plus there are plenty of cafés and wine bars in which to rest your l

L Truro Farmers’ Market, Falmouth

j Silver Origins, St Ives

Penwith Gallery

Penwith Gallery has been a staple of the St Ives art scene since its doors opened in 1961. Home of the renowned Penwith Society of Arts and situated on Back Road West, it is set back from the hustle and bustle of the seafront and main shopping street, providing a welcome refuge for visitors and locals alike.

Its big, cool, beautifully lit rooms, glass roof and charming sculpture courtyard.

Founded in 1949 by big names such as Dame Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson, Sven Berlin and Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, the gallery boasts three contemporary exhibition spaces, an archive and corresponding Hepworth Room (boasting the gallery’s very own Hepworth sculpture, the Magic Stone), a sculpture courtyard and a gallery shop.

The PSA show contemporary work by their members all year round in the Members Gallery, with five selling exhibitions per year. The other two gallery spaces house month-long guest exhibitions being chosen by a panel of PSA Members. This attracts shows by some of the world’s best contemporary artists and brand new talents, as well as three selected exhibitions per year of the Society’s Associate Membership. With all works for sale and the gallery also offering the popular OwnArt scheme, visitors can not only pop in for free but also take home beautiful artworks.

The gallery complex also houses eleven artists’ studios and gives a home to

the Porthmeor Printmakers Workshop. Young artists are encouraged to begin their careers at the Penwith, with the Young Penwith Artists scheme offering a fullyfunded exhibition once a year for a local artist under the age of 35. The gallery also does considerable community outreach, offering funded summer workshops for local children and playing a prominent role in the town’s September Festival. Being an active part of the local community is an important part of the team’s ethos.

The uniqueness of the Penwith Gallery is not just the history and the beautiful location, but the fact that it is entirely led and run by artists. Exhibitions are selected by artist members who are also responsible for the recent fundraising and upkeep of the buildings, and all the staff are practising artists. This shines through with the enthusiasm and passion of the staff and volunteers. Human and canine visitors alike are given a warm welcome when they walk through the door, regaled with stories of artists past and present and invited into the Penwith family.

Penwith Gallery is open 10am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday, and is free to enter. More details of current exhibitions and events can be found at penwithgallery.com ■

Penwith Gallery Back Road West St. Ives, Cornwall TR26 1NL

mail@penwithgallery.com 01736 795579

feet. Hit Fusion Boutique for sustainable men’s and women’s fashion, Winifred & Mabel for jewellery, art and textiles from Cornish makers or the Cornwall Rug Company for stylish rugs, homewares and cushions sourced from around the globe.

Pit stops don’t get much more picturesque than Padstow. Stroll along the quayside to peruse the original artworks at The Picture House Galleries, or get your hands on prints, ceramics and bespoke patchwork furniture at Quay Art.

Rick Stein’s interest in the town doesn’t stop at food; his ex-wife is also at the helm of Stein’s Gift Shop – a wonderful space stacked with jewellery, ceramics and stylish homewares inspired by her travels.

Cruise west along the Atlantic Highway to discover an array of art, food, furniture and interior accessories at the county’s coolest upand-coming shopping hub, Hawksfield. Stock up on furniture and accessories at Jo & Co Home, buy something pretty for your pooch at Bella’s Pet Boutique and stock up on award-winning ingredients from Europe and the West Country at The Arc Speciality Food Store.

After some threads? Local brand Finisterre is the place to go for ethical outdoor clothing. A coffee or breakfast from Strong Adolfos will

keep your strength up while you browse.

Surfer wannabes, assemble! Newquay is home to one of the largest collections of surf shops in Europe. After one lap of the town, you can be dressed up and dapper in the latest surf fashion or ready to hit the waves with a wetsuit and board.

Local brand Married to the Sea has a store on the high street, filled with surf clothing and vintage clothes as well as practical surfing gear. At Fistral Surf Complex, right beside some of the best waves in Cornwall, there’s a line-up of surfside shops including Ann’s Cottage, FatFace and Bon Bon boutique.

Designer clothes and accessories

Style queens should head out of town to Porth Beach, where the ultra-trendy Roo’s Beach is styled on the Cornish coastal life and crammed with designer clothes and accessories for beach babes.

Carry on to Mawgan Porth and you’ll find a creative little community huddled by the beach. Original coastal-themed woodwork and crafts can be found in Karandave studios, while Married to the Sea sews up the vibe of this seaside community in its fashionable beachwear.

For funky gifts, glassware and artwork, head up the hill to Create Cornwall at l

Now in its 21st year Lighthouse Gallery offers a fabulous collection of original paintings, glass, sculpture, ceramics, prints and artist made jewellery.

Amanda Hoskin | Sophie Howard | Gary Long | David Pascoe | Annie Waring

Michael Praed | Brian Andrew | Jen Williams | Emily Doran

53 Causewayhead, Penzance TR18 2SS • www.lighthouse-gallery.com • IG: @lighthousegallerypenzance

Bedruthan Hotel, where they also hold family craft workshops and seasonal vintage and festive craft fairs that bring together some of Cornwall’s best artists and makers.

Perched cliffside on the site of St Agnes’ historic Wheal Kitty mine is the Finisterre workshop – the perfect place to kit yourself out for blustery coast path walks and saltwater adventures. Conceived by a group of coldwater surfers, this award-winning clothing brand produces functional, fashionable and ethically sourced clothing made for life in the great outdoors.

Wind your way down into the heart of St Agnes village to buy unusual hand-crafted gifts, including ceramics and metalwork from Churchtown Arts and hand-blown glass art from the Little Feathers Gallery. In the Jo Polack Studio and Gallery, you can watch the textile artist at work creating her felt art, eco sculptures and stitch maps of local towns and villages.

Shopping hubs

Falmouth is one of Cornwall’s most creative and diverse shopping hubs. Hit the Beside the Wave gallery to buy work from fantastic contemporary artists or head to The Grey Lurcher for quirky independent homewares and gifts.

If words are your passion, get captivating literature signed by local authors at the Falmouth Bookseller or browse wall-towall books over a beer at the quirky Beerwolf Books.

For an assortment of maritime gifts, from model sailing boats to cuddly crabs, try the National Maritime Museum Cornwall’s gift shop. If it’s clothes you’re after, Fat Willy’s Surf Shack covers all your beach-inspired needs, while Wild Pony stocks seriously cool vintage clothes and Bosun’s Locker has all the outdoor gear you need for your next hike.

Most visitors head to Porthleven to see the clock tower or surf one of the UK’s best reef breaks, but this pint-sized harbour town is a secret shopping hotspot. Watch the waves from the harbour wall then step into Waves Gallery to clap eyes on images that capture the power, beauty and hues of the ocean. Take home colourful Cornish beach scenes in the form of prints, coasters and placemats from Albatross Gallery, or pick up eclectic gifts and cards at Lindy Lou’s.

Famous for its chic maritime style, the bustling harbourside town of Fowey is another fine place to fill your shopping bags. You’ll find all sorts of coastal-inspired gifts from handmade jewellery to glassware and beach fashion. Get fair trade and organic clothing at

Pink Lemons Boutique and dip into Brocante for stand-out gifts for you and your home.

For that antiques fix, follow the river inland from Fowey to the small town of Lostwithiel. The pretty 12th-century streets are packed with antique, gift and homewares shops, including Lostwithiel Antique Centre and the stylish Alice in Scandiland for textiles, ceramics and art prints.

The Padstow Farm Shop stocks an impressive range of lip-smacking produce

Would you rather your shopping was edible? It’s a good thing that Cornwall is one of the UK’s top foodie destinations. It’s a place packed with producers making the most of the ingredients at their fingertips: picking veg from kitchen gardens, making charcuterie and cheeses, rearing the finest Cornish meats and even distilling a range of Cornish spirits. Any trip here is bound to include some tasty treats to take home.

If you love chocolate and art, follow your tastebuds to The Chocolate Factory and Craft Centre near Mullion (on the Lizard Peninsula), where you can see chocolatiers making mouth-watering morsels. Ramp up the chocolatey goodness by sampling their artisan hot chocolate in the on-site café.

Working in gold, silver and a variety of precious gemstones, Mirri Damer’s jewellery takes inspiration from the Cornish coastline that surrounds her.

Her designs, celebrated and coveted for their timeless style and low-key luxury look, are all created in her studio and shop on the Old High Street, Falmouth.

Contact Mirri for bespoke commissions or even to reuse heirloom gemstones in a piece of contemporary jewellery you will treasure forever.

Old High Street, Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 2AB 07301634007

www.mirridamer.com | mirridamer@gmail.com

Padstow put Cornwall on the gastronomes’ map, so it’s little wonder that the Padstow Farm Shop stocks an impressive range of lip-smacking produce. In town, Stein’s Deli is the one-stop-shop for delicious local produce and coastal giftware, from Cornish crab sandwiches and local ales to cookbooks and funky platters.

A short hop up the coast and close to Port Isaac is the Trevathan Farm Shop in St Endellion. Come here to fill your bags with delectable local fare from fresh veg and local preserves to fudge, free-range eggs and Cornish wines. You can also tuck into breakfast, lunch and cream teas at their laidback restaurant.

Wadebridge – a short distance along the Camel Trail from Padstow – has an abundance of foodie shops in town – from traditional butchers to artisan bakeries. Be sure to take home some fudge from Granny Wobbly’s Fudge Pantry.

If it’s picnic supplies you’re after, you’ll do well in St Ives. Pick up a ‘gone to the beach’ picnic pack from The Cornish Deli or head to the St Ives Bakery for an artisan sourdough loaf, some home-made cakes or a traditional Cornish pasty.

About twenty minutes outside St Ives in Connor Downs you’ll find Trevaskis Farm,

where can stock up on local goodies from fish and dairy products to farm-reared meats to pick-your-own summer fruits.

A real highlight of the local foodie scene is Truro Farmers’ Market, which takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9am to 4pm and ‘pops up’ in Falmouth every Tuesday from 9am to 1.30pm. Come here to pick up everything from duck eggs to line-caught fish to an assortment of delectable pastries. St Ives hosts its own farmers’ market in the town centre on the first and third Saturday of every month.

It’s little wonder that food halls have become popular in recent years, given the quality of local produce and the dynamism of the foodie scene. What do they entail? Local small-scale producers coming together and showcasing their goods, so your tastebuds can explore Cornwall’s foodie treasures under one roof. Stock up at the Great Cornish Food Store in Truro, or head to St Austell Bay and you’ll find Par Market & Food Hall, crammed with tasty treats.

If you want to pick up a one-off gift, fill your basket with fine meats and cheeses or kit yourself out with the latest surf gear, Cornwall is an excellent place to do so. Thanks to a wide range of independent boutiques, it’s easy to get your cultural fix in Cornwall. ■

Padstow Farm Shop

EATING OUT

Cornwall is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs –so make sure you bring a healthy appetite

Cornwall has undergone a foodie revolution! No longer a land where pasties, cream teas and fish and chips head-up every menu, gastronomes flock here from all over the world to dine on the freshest ingredients from land and sea, and bag tables at stylish beachfront eateries and restaurants helmed by lauded celebrity chefs.

If you come on holiday to Cornwall, you’re going to be dining

by the sea. And luckily for you, Cornwall offers the best seaside dining in the UK. Whether you choose to dine in style at a chic restaurant with a view or relax on the sand with a seafood takeaway, you’ll be blown away by the quality on offer.

Any foodie pilgrimage to Cornwall should start in the picturesque harbour town of ‘Padstein’ (aka Padstow) – the place

that sparked Cornwall’s foodie revolution when Rick Stein opened his flagship Seafood Restaurant in 1975. While Stein is still a huge name in town and you need to book months ahead to bag a table at the famous Seafood Restaurant, these days there’s much more to choose from.

Arguably the best place to eat in Padstow is Paul Ainsworth at No6. Here Ainsworth spins bold,

Rick Stein, Seafood Restaurant

seasonal ingredients – think Porthilly oysters from the Camel Estuary or monkfish fresh off the day boats – into mouth-watering, modern British dishes.

It’s one of the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants in the country, but if you’re looking for something even more affordable, try Ainsworth’s other spin off –Caffé Rojano – where you can tuck into the devilish combo of Italian and Spanish cuisine using Cornish produce. Think seasonal small plates, deli sandwiches, beautiful sourdough pizzas and fresh pasta dishes.

Hop over the estuary to The Mariners Public House, and you can sample more of Ainsworth’s classic signature dishes alongside ales from the nearby Sharp’s brewery.

Meanwhile, also in Padstow, Prawn on the Lawn has made its mark with a seafood bar serving sustainably sourced lobsters, crabs and fish flipped straight off the boats onto the charcoal grill. You’ll

find a kid-friendly vibe at Ben’s Crib Box Café, set on Padstow’s South Quay. Come here for hearty fry-ups, toasties and wraps, as well as some stellar harbour views.

North Cornwall’s food scene is by no means relegated to Padstow; the surrounding area is smattered with tasty gems. Topping the list is Nathan Outlaw’s duo of Michelinstarred restaurants in pretty Port Isaac. The menus at both Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen (by the harbour) and Outlaw’s New Road (at the top of the hill), are driven by what comes in off the fishing boats.

Also worth a look is the more casual Fresh from the Sea, where you can tuck into crab, lobster and line-caught Cornish fish, all landed by owner Calum Greenhlagh on his day boat.

A short distance from Port Isaac in neighbouring Port Gaverne, you can munch on the likes of mussels and mackerel at the waterside Pilchards Café – an offshoot of the stylish Port Gaverne Hotel.

As you cruise down the Atlantic Highway towards Newquay, make a pit stop at Hawksfield and the trendy roadside café that is Strong Adolfos. Here you’ll find a unique mix of motorcycle culture, Cornish ingredients and coastal life. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before a surf on one of the nearby beaches, tuck into big burgers and sandwiches or keep things healthy with a green smoothie.

Gluten-Free delicacies

Newquay has shed its all-night party image and grown into a gastronomic honey pot. While you can still enjoy fish and chips or ice creams on the beach, you’re more likely to find yourself ordering delicious gluten-free delicacies, vitamin-packed smoothies and dishes showcasing local ingredients from seafood to samphire.

Hipster hangouts include coffee shop Box and Barber, Pavilion Bakery, for artisan breads and pastries as well as English and l

Prawn on the Lawn, Padstow

Sri Lankan brunches and Jam Jar, for healthy smoothie bowls and a selection of caffeine and dairy-free lattes – think turmeric, beetroot or charcoal.

You could also try Bush Pepper, where fresh Cornish seafood sits alongside kangaroo steaks on the Australian-influenced menu; or the Fish House, for locally caught fish and shellfish straight from the boats of Newquay Harbour. Rick Stein, Fistral is a family-friendly spot with some of the best views in town. Come here for fabulous fish and chips and flavours inspired by Rick’s travels around India and the Far East.

Head a couple of miles north of town to The Beach Hut at Watergate Bay where you can grab a legendary burger, an extreme hot chocolate or seafood-based bistro favourites. It’s just one of a clutch of stylish eateries on this popular surfing beach.

In a unique setting beside lily ponds and water gardens on the outskirts of Truro, the award-

Beer & Bird is an independent and family-run business located in Fore Street, St Ives

winning Penrose Kitchen has picked up quite a following with its pretty plates of local and homegrown produce.

In the heart of Truro, where there’s an overwhelming choice of coffee shops, make a pit stop at 108 Coffee for incredible breakfasts and pastries alongside your caffeine of choice. Or check out Bread & Butter, for frittatas, homemade sausage rolls and the café’s famous fluffy American pancakes.

St Ives is a worthy rival to Padstow when it comes to culinary treats. The Porthminster Café boasts a string of accolades, so if you want to soak up the beachside vibes over ingredients plucked from the ocean and the café’s kitchen garden, it’s worth booking ahead. At the intimate One Fish Street fish from the day boats is the star of small plates brimming with exciting flavours.

Beer & Bird is an independent and family-run business located in Fore Street, St Ives. Specialising in

Beer & Bird, Fore Street, St Ives

Cornish, free-range fried chicken, the restaurant offers a delicious selection of burgers, Belgian waffles and homemade sides, alongside a range of hearty meat-free dishes including their own-recipe vegan fried chicken.

Vegans can join in dining on seafood favourites with the Tofu Fish ‘n’ Chips at the Rum and Crab Shack. Or watch the boats come and go at the harbour over a tofu or black bean burger with an ethical twist from the legendary Blas Burgerworks.

If you want fresh Cornish ingredients fused with the global flavours of Asia and the Mediterranean, head to the Porthgwidden Beach Café, a relaxed and intimate setting hunkered on the edge of a white-sand cove.

The food is as good as the jawdropping views at Ugly Butterfly at Carbis Bay. Chef Adam Handling is passionate about local produce and about avoiding waste – the offcuts from ingredients used in the

restaurant are repurposed to create delicious drinks and bar snacks.

Beyond St Ives, pause on a deckchair by the Hayle Estuary and tuck into crab tacos at the Black Lobster, or dine Spanish-style at Harry’s Bodega.

To the west, the ends-of-theearth location of The Gurnard’s Head serves seasonal, sometimes foraged ingredients and fine wines served in a laid-back, rustic venue on the wild coastline of Penwith.

Cosy dining

Porthleven is making a name for itself as an emerging foodie enclave. The Square has a daily changing menu of locally sourced meat, fish and veggie dishes, as well as fantastic coffee and cake. Settle down in the cosy dining room or soak up the rays al fresco on sunny days. Their Ice Cream Emporium next door is a bonus!

However, the most lauded restaurant in town is Porthleven’s multi-award-winning Kota, where

Jude Kereama combines the best from land and sea in his signature Asian-fused dishes. A few doors away, his Kota Kai, is a little more relaxed, offering the same quality food in a family-friendly setting.

The bigger, more vibrant harbour town of Falmouth is full of waterside eateries, including Culture, which was awarded a Michelin Green Star for sustainability in 2023. Set in an old quayside, it’s committed to local, seasonal and foraged ingredients. Each dish on the menu is named after its inspiration, whether that’s a farmer, landscape or hedgerow.

One of the town’s other hot venues is INDIdog, a vibrant harbour’s edge restaurant with Michelin-starred chef Paul Ripley behind the menu. From delicious breakfasts to sundowner dinners, it’s a sociable and popular foodie spot.

If you want the best seafood in town to-go, or tapas-style fish dishes, pay a visit to Verdant Seafood Bar. It’s owned by the l

Culture, Falmouth

Verdant Brewing Co, so it goes without saying that you can find a Lambic brew to match every fish dish on the menu.

For sublime harbour views, fish fresh from the day boats and local meats that have been cured and smoked, book a table at the town’s award-winning Star & Garter gastropub. Or for seafood platters with expansive ocean views, try Hooked on the Rocks, which overhangs nearby Swanpool Beach.

Vegetarian dishes

Tucked away on an abandoned plant nursery on the outskirts of Falmouth, Potager Garden café has emerged as something of an ethical foodie star, serving inventive vegetarian dishes spotlighting sustainable and locally sourced ingredients.

Andy Appleton, one of Fifteen Cornwall’s former head chefs, reopened Appleton’s Bar and Restaurant two years ago in Fowey, having relocated from the North Coast to an exciting new venue.

A trio behind three hyper-hip London restaurants have also opened The Fitzroy, a shaker-style venue serving sharing plates of fish, locally grown and foraged ingredients alongside natural wines.

St Austell’s Carlyon Bay has transformed from a backwater to a buzzing beach destination, hosting

St Austell is home to one of Cornwall’s biggest breweries, St Austell Brewery

pop-up bars and foodie containers during the summer months.

Nearby, family-run Edie’s Kitchen makes ripples all yearround, with its local, seasonal food conjured up by Nigel Brown, who spent two decades working under culinary luminaries such as Raymond Blanc and Bill Granger.

East Cornwall is the forgotten corner of a foodie tour, but it’s worth making the effort to discover its hidden gems. The Sardine Factory, overlooking the harbour in Looe, has been added to the Michelin Bib Gourmand list, while the Carew Arms, in the small village of Antony near Torpoint, focuses on seasonal ingredients and innovative menus.

You don’t have to dine in a restaurant or café to eat the best of Cornish produce. Whatever time of year you’re visiting, you’ll find an array of events celebrating the county’s rich food culture.

Food & Drink Festival

Some of the annual foodie highlights include the Porthleven Food Festival in April and the St Ives Food & Drink Festival in May. If you’re a fan of fish, the Falmouth Oyster Festival in October celebrates the oyster-dredging season in one of the area’s last traditional oyster fisheries. Even the remote Isles of Scilly host a huge annual Taste of Scilly food festival each September.

Cornwall offers a host of cookery schools where you can hone your skills in the kitchen. At celeb chef Rick Stein’s Cookery School in Padstow, you can learn to prepare seafood, create curries, rustle up tasty tapas and bake your own bread and pastries.

Meanwhile in South Cornwall, tucked in the sublime scenery of the Roseland Peninsula, is the Philleigh Way Cookery School, where you can get to grips with Cornish farmhouse-style cooking using recipes handed down through generations. If you fancy creating restaurant-worthy dishes using foraged ingredients, make a beeline for the Fat Hen, tucked away in West Cornwall.

Feast nights featuring locally-

St Austell Brewery

reared produce are some of the hottest dates on Cornwall’s foodie calendar. Tickets sell like hot cakes for farm suppers at the idyllic setting of Nancarrow Farm on the outskirts of Truro.

And the secret is long out about the feast nights at the Hidden Hut on Porthcurnick Beach, where you can delve into the likes of South Indian thalis, wood-roasted lamb and River Fal shellfish, cooked over the beachside firepit.

Cornwall is full of stunning coastal spots where you can lay out a picnic blanket – and these days you can order a gourmet outdoor feast at the click of your fingers. If you want the prettiest picnic imaginable, including rugs, china and pillows and featuring a seasonal savoury grazing board, try Dine with Iris.

For grazing platters, brunch and high tea packed to go for your outdoor adventures, or stylish picnic setups complete with blankets and crockery, summon

The Pretty Picnic Fowey. It’s not only Cornwall’s food that’s highly rated on the national menu. With gin distilleries, an internationally acclaimed vineyard and local coffee roasters, its drinks are creating a tasty tidal wave, too.

Colwith Farm Distillery, Cornwall’s first plough-to-bottle gin and vodka distillery, runs ginmaking masterclasses, finishing with bottling and labelling your own gin.

Meanwhile Tarquin’s range of gin and spirits, hand-crafted on the north coast, continues to grow and win more awards. Helford-based Rosemullion Distillery has won gold medals for its Harvest Gin, Gold Rum and Spiced Rum, while Porthilly Spirit Distillery offers a small but perfectly formed range of gin, rum and vodka.

The Harbour Brewing Co. is amongst a growing number of microbreweries producing specialist craft beers, while The Bearded Brewery and Healey’s

Cornish Cyder Farm are the place for crafted ciders.

St Austell is home to one of Cornwall’s biggest breweries, St Austell Brewery, where you can take an interactive tour into the inner workings of the brew house before sampling some of the beers made here.

The vine-covered slopes of the Camel Valley Vineyard produce award-winning wines including the county’s own ‘Cornwall’ Brut sparkling. Nearby Trevibban Mill Vineyard is also becoming known for its award-winning collection of Cornish wines and ciders.

A holiday to Cornwall is an introduction to a world of fabulous, fresh produce. Dine on fish pulled straight from the sea at a laidback beachside café or fine-dining restaurant, sample the best local fruit and veg at one of the county’s great markets or choose from a dazzling array of Cornish wine, cider and beer. No matter what, you’re not going home hungry! ■

Appleton’s Bar and Restaurant

Only here for the weekend? Fear not! Here are some ideas for a memorable short break

WEEKENDER

DAY ONE

If you’re starting off in Newquay, head straight to the heart of town to check out the surf over morning coffee at Box & Barber. Then strike out south along the coast path to the 14th-century Huer’s Hut and enjoy the coastal panorama.

From here it’s only minutes on foot to Fistral Beach for a surf lesson at the UK’s surfing capital. Fuel up with a lazy lunch watching the world-class waves – choose from pizza and cider at The Stable, global cuisine at Rick Stein’s or local seafood at The Fish House.

Afterwards, you should make tracks north to the market town of Wadebridge, pausing at the Camel Valley Vineyard to sample awardwinning vintages.

Heart of town

Make sure to visit Padstow, Cornwall’s foodie mecca, but don’t waste too much time queuing at Stein’s Fish and Chips – there are plenty more places to stuff yourself to the gills in the heart of town and beyond. Instead, fill your picnic basket with pasties and sweet treats at Stein’s Café and hop on the Black Tor Ferry to cross the estuary to Rock.

Then climb the grassy knoll of Brae Hill to capture the scenery that inspired John Betjeman, and then feel the sand between your toes on beautiful Daymer Bay.

Returning via the wonkysteepled St Enodoc Church where Betjeman is buried, quench your thirst at The Mariners yachtie pub in Rock. It’s up to you whether you hop back on the ferry for dinner in Padstow or press on to Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen in pretty Port Isaac.

DAY TWO

Treat yourself to breakfast then hotfoot down the A30 to Lelant Saltings and board the coastal railway to St Ives. Soak up the views made famous across the globe via John Miller’s paintings, and disembark beside the pearly sands of Porthminster for lunch at Porthminster Beach Café.

Make sure there’s time to admire the monumental sculptures in the

Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Gardens, and take a spin around the Tate St Ives.

Dip into the history of this fishing village turned artists colony at the St Ives Museum before strolling around ‘the island’, keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins and climb to the tiny St Nicholas Chapel on the way to Porthmeor.

While the walk from Porthmeor to Zennor is possibly one of the finest four-hour stretches on the entire South West Coast Path, save time by hopping on the open-

The coast road to the westerly tip of mainland Britain to take a souvenir photo on Land’s End

topped bus to the wild little place much-loved by DH Lawrence and steeped in tales of a legendary mermaid.

Delicious dinner

After a pint at the traditional Tinners Arms, follow the coast road to the westerly tip of mainland Britain to take a souvenir photo on Land’s End. End your day by backtracking a mile or so to Sennen Cove for a delicious dinner overlooking the crashing waves at the Surf Beach Bar and Den. ■

Land’s End

Culture vultures assemble! Cornwall offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals

Culture Club

From its artists’ hubs to its filming locations, Cornwall is a destination steeped in heritage, creativity and culture. See theatre in subtropical gardens and cliff-top amphitheatres, capture seascapes on camera or canvas and step into stunning scenery that has moved literary greats and starred in blockbuster films.

Cornwall has inspired artists and writers for centuries, and they continue to flock here to make the most of the landscapes and the light. Seek out their work in the county’s craft shops and galleries

and follow in the footsteps of literary luminaries on Cornwall’s heritage trails.

Get to the heart of all things arty in St Ives, where you can visit worldclass galleries or get hands-on with painting and pottery workshops. Artists have flocked to the town since the 1930s, when they took over the net lofts deserted by fishermen when the pilchard reserves dried up.

Inspired by the magical light, wild landscapes and bohemian lifestyle, the likes of Barbara Hepworth, Bernard Leach, Terry Frost and Peter Lanyon laid their roots here.

Testimony to the town’s art legacy is a littering of galleries including the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, The Leach Pottery and the iconic Tate St Ives, which highlights national and international modern art in lightflooded spaces.

While you’re in town don’t limit yourself to the big-name galleries – there are dozens of lesser-known spaces to seek out, such the Porthminster Gallery, which champions modern and contemporary Cornish art and Back Road Artworks in the Downalong

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, Penzance

area, where you can meet a community of makers creating multi-media artwork.

If you want to get in touch with your own creative side, join a class at the St Ives School of Painting, or learn to throw a pot under the tutelage of a local expert at St Ives Pottery.

Penwith Gallery is one of St Ives’ hidden gems, set just outside the hubbub of the town centre. It provides a welcome refuge for visitors with its large, cool, beautifully-lit rooms, glass roof and charming sculpture courtyard.

A 15-minute drive from St Ives will take you to the unique Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, where art and nature merge in sub-tropical gardens overlooking Mounts Bay.

Nearby Penzance and Newlyn are two more arty havens. The Newlyn School of Art was founded in 2011, and provides painting, sculpture and drawing courses with some of Cornwall’s most respected artists.

You can see original Newlyn School art at the Penlee House Gallery & Museum in Penzance, while the more modern Newlyn Art Gallery and its sibling, The Exchange, feature ambitious contemporary projects by today’s local artists.

The allure of the county’s art scene also lies in the more remote galleries

A 15-minute drive from St Ives will take you to the unique Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens

and independent designer-makers. Make a pit stop in the old mining village of St Just-in-Penwith outside of St Ives, where you’ll find the award-winning Jackson Foundation Gallery housed in a huge exindustrial building. Also between St Ives and Land’s End is the Yew Tree Gallery in Pendeen, a contemporary art gallery facing rugged moorland.

Nudging Land’s End is the small studio and gallery of Amanda Richardson, where you can meet this pioneering textile artist (visits yearround, by prior arrangement only).

While Amanda Richardson’s work reflects the local scenery through textiles, the work of Dreya Bennett echoes Cornwall’s natural environment through stained-glass art. She has her own gallery, Dreya Glass, in Newquay.

Arguably one of Cornwall’s bestknown glass artists is Jo Downs, who has been capturing the light, colours and texture of the scenery in her glasswork for 25 years. She has a studio in Launceston and five galleries with her name on them, and her work can also be found in gift shops across the county.

Home of one of the UK’s leading creative universities, it’s little wonder that Falmouth has become so popular on the art and literary scene. Make a beeline for Beerwolf Books if you want to browse, meet book and beer-loving folk, listen to bands and perhaps bump into the town’s resident authors such as Emily Barr. Independent bookshop the Falmouth Bookseller hosts regular literary events including talks by big-name authors such as Bonnie Garmus and Emma Stonex.

Fowey was once home to the region’s best-known author, Daphne du Maurier, and her legacy is still very much part of the town. Climb to the daymark atop Gribbin Head and admire the historic Menabilly Estate that inspired some of du Maurier’s work. She wasn’t the only author putting Fowey and its surrounds into her novels, however. Hop on a river cruise from Fowey to Lerryn and you’ll be messing around in the scenery that inspired Ratty and Mole’s boat trip in Kenneth Grahame’s Wind in the Willows. l

St Ives School of Painting

Cornwall’s Atlantic-lashed north coast has also proved alluring for writers over the decades. Visit the picturesque harbour village of Boscastle, where Thomas Hardy fell in love with his first wife, or climb the grassy knoll of Brea Hill from Daymer Bay, to soak up the scenery that inspired the late Poet Laureate John Betjeman, taking the diversion to St Enodoc Church where he is buried.

Cornwall’s calendar is crammed full of fabulous events. Whether you’re into festivals, theatre or live music, you will always be entertained in this creative county.

A crop of festivals highlighting the Cornish lifestyle include the Rock Oyster Festival, which takes place on the banks of the Camel Estuary. One of Cornwall’s biggest music festivals is Boardmasters, which attracts music fans to the spectacular setting of Watergate Bay near Newquay.

Many towns across the county throw unique street festivals showcasing the art, music and heritage of the region. Padstow’s Mayday’s Obby Oss festival is steeped in Celtic tradition. The day unfolds with flowers, flags, drums and singing, as a procession winds around the town.

Also taking place in the spring is Helston’s Flora Day, which sees thousands of people dance

through the town’s streets to celebrate the coming of summer. The Creative Scilly festival, meanwhile, showcases a mix of local and national artists, writers, and musicians.

A top event for bookworms is the Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature, inspired by former resident Daphne du Maurier, which brings literary talks, readings and book signings to the town in May, alongside concerts, art and garden trails.

October’s Falmouth Book Festival may only be three years old, but it’s already attracting plenty of attention, as well as top authors including George Monbiot, Rachel Joyce and Raynor Winn.

In June, The Polperro Festival of Music & Arts celebrates the arrival of summer, while Falmouth’s three-day Arts Alive festival shines a light on the creative culture of this harbour town. In the same month, Falmouth’s International Sea Shanty Festival plays host to shanty performances throughout the town.

Meanwhile, the Looe Weekender in September, is a three-day street party celebrating music and arts over many venues throughout this historic town. The St Ives September Festival is a two-week spread of theatre productions, art exhibitions, literary events and live music, celebrating the

region’s creativity.

Despite the unpredictable Cornish weather, open-air theatre has become a huge phenomenon here. Best known is the Minack Theatre, an amphitheatre carved into the cliffs at Porthcurno. The life’s work of Rowena Cade, the Minack opened in 1932 with a production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, and at least one Shakespeare classic features in the annual programme of plays and music. The Cornish weather, the spectacular ocean backdrop, and sometimes even passing dolphins, play their part.

Head to the natural amphitheatre of Sterts Theatre on the edge of Bodmin Moor where the performance area is covered by a giant tent canopy, so you’ll be dry whatever the weather throws at you. During autumn and winter, many of the performances are moved into the more intimate and cosier Sterts Studio.

Nothing beats theatre that embraces the great Cornish weather in all its wildness. Which is perhaps why the award-winning Rogue Theatre’s productions in the Tehidy Woods are so popular. From the Wild Awake spring adventure to Wild Moon after dark forest adventures, each performance takes you on an immersive experience through enchanting woodland.

You don’t have to take a punt on the Cornish weather to catch the best of the county’s performing arts, however. Catch regular dance, theatre and music at The Acorn in Penzance, watch original drama at The Tolmen Centre in Constantine, see international headliners at the Eden Sessions, enjoy world-class musicals and rock concerts at the Hall for Cornwall in Truro or take a pew in the city’s awe-inspiring cathedral for a classical concert or festive carols.

From theatre to festivals to live events, there’s always something going on in Cornwall. In fact, this creative county is so packed with art and cultural events and attractions that it can be hard to know where to start. The best advice? Get out there and dive in. ■

The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno

The night-time economy in the city is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs, bars and live music venues

After dark

From beach bars and family festivals to cocktail lounges and party nights, Cornwall’s nightlife offers fun for all ages. Whether you fancy hunkering down in a country pub or dancing into the après surf scene, there are plenty of ways to wind down. Enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset by the waves, listen to beats by the beach, cast off in a party boat or sip a pint of craft ale in a cosy inn.

Cornwall is awash with delectable drinking dens. Pull up a pew in an atmospheric old-school boozer or grab a G&T by the beach. You’ll never be short of options in

this lively county. Drinking a beer or a cocktail with your toes in the sand is an absolute must in Cornwall.

And luckily, there are plenty of places where you can sip a local Sharp’s ale right on the beach. Try the Fistral Beach Bar in Newquay or the legendary Blue, set amongst the dunes of Porthtowan Beach, where you can lap up the aprèsbeach vibes.

Vying for the honour of Cornwall’s best beach bar is The Watering Hole in Perranporth, where you can chill out surfside for the sunset, fight the seagulls for

your fish and chips, then dance until the early hours to top British bands and DJs. The Watering Hole’s series of popular summer concerts, Bands In The Sands, features top artists. Rivalling The Watering Hole on Perranporth beach is the trendy Alcatraz Bar and Café, where you can soak up those sublime sunsets from a stylish clifftop setting. Further west, just a mile from the south-westerly tip of Cornwall, The Surf Beach Bar and Surf Den at Sennen’s Beach is fast gaining a reputation for its surfside sounds and Skinner’s Brewery beers.

The Bay View Inn, Widemouth Bay

If it’s gin-spiration you’re after as the sun goes down, try local and international hand-crafted gins at The Bay View Inn overlooking Widemouth Bay. Make sure you sample the Sharish Blue Magic gin, which turns from blue to dusky pink when you add tonic – much like the horizon you’re gazing out at. Looking for rolling surf and rocking nightlife? You can’t beat Newquay’s line-up of bars and clubs. Boogie the night away at Fistral Beach Bar’s famous silent disco, drink beer overlooking the sands at Sailors Pub, then dance the night away at Sailors Club or Dead Famous Liquor Lounge.

If you’re after something sophisticated, seek out Tom Thumb speakeasy, where expert mixologists serve premium cocktails and hold masterclasses and tasting sessions.

Cove24 is a stylish restaurant and bar serving up hand-crafted cocktails, and you can sample craft beer and cider at microbrewery the Lost Brewing Co., alongside the likes of burgers, hot dogs and

Buddha bowls.

If you’ve had your fill of the bright lights of Newquay, take a seat on the terrace or warm your cockles by the fire at the Lewinnick Lodge. Perched on Pentire Headland at the southern end of Fistral Beach, this revamped 18th-century cottage has posed as a smugglers’ den and a lobster hold and is a sublime spot to see the sunset over the swarms of surfers on Fistral Beach.

If you’re up for exploring further off the beaten track, wind up The Atlantic Highway to Trebarwith Strand (near Port Isaac), where you can sip local ales while looking out to the rugged coastline from The Port William pub.

You may not see breathtaking sunsets on the south coast, but there are plenty of cool hangouts with a view. Lounge on the decking at Gylly Beach Café in Falmouth or come for one of their regular music nights when tunes spill out onto the sand.

A vibrant creative and maritime hub, Falmouth boasts an eclectic collection of on-trend venues,

including Verdant Brewing Co’s new project, The Seafood Bar, where you can enjoy hoppy, American-style beers alongside seafood tapas.

If you’re looking for somewhere with more heritage appeal, the quayside Chain Locker retains the charm of a cosy fisherman’s hangout. To breathe in the sea breeze and take in panoramic harbour views, make for The Working Boat, a proper pub with a history going back 300 years.

To feast your eyes on sublime coastal scenery and the historic fortress of St Michael’s Mount, head to The Godolphin in Marazion, where you can imbibe fine wines and local beers while you drool over expansive views of Mounts Bay.

Skip along the south coast to surfy Praa Sands Beach and step into the trendy Sandbar, where you can clap eyes on jaw-dropping views from the decking or through the long-drop windows.

After an active day at the beach or visiting Cornwall’s cultural gems, there’s nothing better than l

St Austell Brewery, Cornwall

hunkering by the fire in a cosy inn with a pint of local ale for company. Walk off the wild North Cornish coastline into The Barrel at Bude, which sources all its beers from Cornwall’s small independent brewers.

Also on the Atlantic Coast, The Driftwood Spars in Trevaunance Cove has an onsite microbrewery and is one of the most popular places to eat and drink in St Agnes.

Enveloped in the romantic

landscape of the Helford Passage, the Ferryboat Inn is big on atmosphere, local beers and farmto-fork food. Equally alluring is the Pandora Inn, tucked away on Restronguet Creek along the River Fal, where you can arrive by boat or road and take a seat on the pontoon – crabbing line in one hand, pint in the other.

If you like a watering hole with a bit of history, there are plenty in Cornwall to choose from. Just off the

coastal path that runs from Bude to Hartland, the 13th-century Bush Inn was once the haunt of wreckers and smugglers. Hole up by the fire on blustery winter days or enjoy the views from the large garden during summer.

The Old Inn & Restaurant in St Breward is Cornwall’s highest inn and has been a meeting place for travellers crossing Bodmin Moor since the 11th century. The 12th-century Victoria Inn in

Perranuthnoe is one of the oldest pubs in the county, where you can kick back by the log fire or tuck into award-winning food.

Another old stalwart of the pub scene is the iconic Sloop Inn in St Ives, which opened its doors in 1312. Take a seat on one of the outdoor benches or find a pew under the low beams and sip one of their cask ales. Hike 10 kilometres along the South West Coast Path and you’ll deserve a pint of real ale

under the low granite ceilings at the Tinners Arms in Zennor – an idyllic 13th-century inn that DH Lawrence once called home.

The Gurnard’s Head is a friendly inn on the cliffs of West Cornwall, hidden off the beaten track between St Ives and Land’s End. Whether you stomp straight off the coastal path with a dog in tow, or arrive in convoy with family and friends, you’ll feel right at home here. You can even stay over and rest your head if you end up drinking too much!

St Austell Brewery own and run 170 pubs, inns and hotels in the south of England and most of them are in Cornwall. Favourites include the Old Success Inn at Sennen Cove, the Ship Inn in Mousehole, Old Custom House in Padstow and Oystercatcher Bar in Polzeath.

If your idea of a good night out involves listening to live music, you won’t be disappointed in Cornwall, particularly if you love a multi-day extravaganza. In recent years Cornwall’s festival scene has burgeoned, luring international headline acts to incredible venues where you can dance with your toes in the sand.

International music

The hottest date on the festival calendar is Boardmasters, a fiveday party that takes over Newquay including a world-class surfing competition, beach gigs and a huge clifftop festival arena with 12 stages hosting top international music acts such as Kings of Leon and Liam Gallagher.

Fast growing in popularity is Perranporth’s Tunes in the Dunes festival, a three-day event where you can listen to big-name performers such as Shaggy and Paul Weller with a backdrop of cliffs and sand dunes.

Bude’s independent Leopallooza festival was originally an attempt to get some friends together to listen to and play good music. Described as the greatest house party in a field, it boasts an exciting cast of bands and artists and is committed to maintaining a low footprint, including a zero-waste policy. Bringing a world-music twist to

the festival scene, Tropical Pressure brings the rich cultures of Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean to a celebration on the cliffs at Porthtowan.

Cool cats should get down to the Bude Jazz Festival at the end of August, when the best jazz and blues acts from across the country and overseas flock into town for four jam-packed days of musical magic that’s bound to put a swing in your step.

Cornwall’s most established garden party, the Port Eliot Festival, took a final bow in 2019, but in its place try The Great Estate – dubbed Cornwall’s most rambunctious garden fête – in the grounds of Scorrier House.

Another more intimate local favourite is the Rock Oyster Festival, which lures foodies and music fans to a summer party beside the Camel Estuary.

Best emerging bands

Meanwhile the Little Orchard Cider and Music Festival is not only big on cider and sea shanties it also hosts some of the best emerging bands in the UK. If it’s the sea shanties that float your boat, try the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival in June. Meanwhile, in September, Looe Weekender sees the maritime town of Looe in Southeast Cornwall get in on the act with three days of lively pop-up music performances.

Tipped as one of the most stunning venues for live music in the country, Lusty Glaze, a secluded cove on the outskirts of Newquay, hosts a series of Sundowner Sessions throughout summer. This idyllic beach is rivalled by the unique and fascinating venue of The Eden Project, where summer’s Eden Sessions are often sold out well in advance and attract international megastars such as Elton John, Lionel Ritchie and Diana Ross.

After a busy day out walking along the coast or splashing in the sea, unwind with the best nightlife the county has to offer. Hole up in a country pub, sip cocktails as the sun goes down or take in a lively summer festival. ■

Although Cornwall has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure

Time to explore

While Cornwall might seem out on limb from the rest of the UK – and crammed with so much beauty and bounty that you won’t want to escape its embrace – it’s still a divine spot to break out to some other fascinating destinations.

Whether you’ve got a day or a week to spare, you can hop on the Scillonian ferry from Penzance, or board the Skybus from Newquay, to the Isles of Scilly. Just 28 miles from the mainland, this timeless, subtropical archipelago is as unique and separate as an entirely different country, with a milder climate and cool, emerald seas that lick whitesand beaches and wave-hewn coastlines.

Outstanding natural beauty

The 150 islands and islets, only five of which are inhabited, are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and home to an abundance of rare flora and wildlife. Cormorants, storm petrels and oystercatchers dance above the waves, warblers and whimbrels pass through on their southerly migrations and the ocean is home to a huge population of Atlantic grey seals as well as dolphins and basking sharks.

In a day you can explore the diverse landscapes of the main island of St Mary’s – from heathland smattered with ancient archaeology wonders to smugglers’ coves fit for Famous Five adventures. If you’ve got any longer, ferry hop to the off islands to discover the world-famous Tresco Abbey Gardens, pad barefoot along the pristine beaches of St Martins or eat homemade ice cream at Troytown Farm on St Agnes.

As a complete contrast to island

life, take a trip just over the border of Cornwall to the cosmopolitan city of Plymouth, steeped in maritime culture and buzzing with creative energy. Gen up on the area’s naval history on Plymouth Hoe and climb the 93 steps to watch ships come and go from the top of Smeaton’s Tower.

This famous lighthouse tower was dismantled and moved from Eddystone Rocks and is now one of the south west’s most iconic landmarks. While the city is well endowed with maritime history, you can dip into the underwater world at the National Marine Aquarium, the UK’s biggest aquarium.

In addition to its nautical charms, Plymouth boasts a diverse platter of art and culture including The Box, featuring exhibitions of world cultures and maritime history alongside classic and contemporary art.

Foodie destinations

Once you’ve delved into Plymouth’s heritage, arts and shopping, you’ll have no doubt worked up an appetite. Straddling the foodie destinations of Devon and Cornwall it’s no surprise that the gourmet offerings are rich, with restaurants led by some of the UK’s top chefs including the Tanner brothers and Mitch Tonks.

Midway between Exeter and Plymouth lies the lovely Buckfast Abbey where visitors can experience serenity and an inspirational day out. Nestled in a valley on the edge of Dartmoor, the Abbey is home to a working community of Benedictine monks and is one of the top tourist attractions in the West Country and has garnered some infamy for its fortified tonic wine. ■

Dartmoor National Park, South Devon

PHOTO-FINISH

St Marys Harbour, the Isles of Scilly