10 Best Places to Visit in Cornwall: A Guide to Hidden Gems and Must-See Spots
Cornwall, with its rugged coastline, charming villages, and stunning landscapes, is one of the UK’s most beautiful and diverse regions. Whether you’re looking for dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, or rich cultural history, Cornwall has something to offer every type of traveller. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the 10 best places to visit in Cornwall — the perfect itinerary for your next getaway to this picturesque part of England.
1. St Ives: A Seaside Paradise
St Ives is a charming fishing town known for its artistic vibe, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Wander through cobbled streets, enjoy the vibrant local art scene at the Tate St Ives, or relax on the idyllic Porthmeor Beach. With its wide range of cafés, boutiques, and stunning coastal walks, St Ives is a must-visit gem in Cornwall.
Why Visit?
- Gorgeous beaches like Porthmeor and Porthminster
- Art galleries and museums
- Picturesque harbour views
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Flat 1, Holmesdale (Amazing sea views!)
- 15 Barnaloft (On the sea front)
- 3 Wheal Dream (Cosy Cottage)
2. Land’s End: The Iconic Cornish Landmark
No trip to Cornwall is complete without visiting Land’s End, the most westerly point of mainland Britain. With breath taking cliff views and a dramatic landscape, Land’s End offers some of the most stunning coastal walks in the country. It’s an iconic spot for those looking for amazing photo opportunities.
Why Visit?
- Incredible cliff-top views
- Photo-perfect landscapes
- Rich maritime history
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Flora Belle Cottage (Cosy Cottage)
- The Byre (Perfect For Families)
- Cove Cottage (Sea Views)
3. Falmouth: A Historic Harbour Town
Falmouth is one of Cornwall’s most historic harbour towns. Famous for its deep natural harbour and maritime heritage, the town is brimming with charm. Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, take a stroll along the bustling quay, or enjoy a boat trip out to the nearby beautiful beaches.
Why Visit?
- National Maritime Museum
- Bustling harbor with restaurants and shops
- Easy access to the stunning Helford River
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Apartment 5 Quayside (Harbour Views)
- The Anchorage (On the Harbour Front)
- Tresgothen (Large families or friend groups)
4.The Eden Project: A Botanical Wonderland
If you love nature, a visit to the Eden Project is an absolute must. This environmental attraction is home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s a perfect place to learn about sustainability while being surrounded by breath taking greenery.
Why Visit?
- Explore the world’s largest indoor rainforest
- Sustainable gardens
- Year-round events and exhibitions
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Merryweather Cottage (Perfect for families)
- Kaolin House (Large Garden)
- Copper Cottage (Cosy Cottage)
5. Padstow: A Culinary Haven
Padstow is renowned for its top-tier food scene, boasting some of Cornwall’s finest seafood restaurants. Famous chef Rick Stein has made his mark on the town, and now it’s a foodie destination in its own right. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the freshest fish you’ll ever taste while enjoying stunning views over the harbour.
Why Visit?
- Renowned seafood dining (Rick Stein’s restaurants)
- Picturesque harbor views
- Coastal walks and cycling paths
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Upper Deck (Harbour Views)
- Mariners View (Clean modern design)
- Woodbine Cottage (Cosy Cottage)
6. Tintagel Castle: Legendary History
If you’re a fan of mythology, Tintagel Castle is a must-see. According to legend, it’s the birthplace of King Arthur. Perched on a dramatic cliff with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the castle offers a fascinating mix of history and spectacular scenery.
Why Visit?
- Legendary King Arthur connection
- Cliff-top views and fascinating ruins
- The stunning walk across the new footbridge
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Merlins Roost (Castle Views)
- Old Borough House (Large families or groups)
- serenissma (Dogs Allowed)
7. The Lizard Peninsula: Wild and Untamed Beauty
The Lizard Peninsula is one of Cornwall’s most unique natural wonders. With its rugged cliffs, rare flora, and some of the clearest waters in the UK, it’s a great spot for walking, wildlife spotting, and simply soaking in the beauty of Cornwall’s coast. Don’t forget to visit Kynance Cove for its dramatic white sand and turquoise waters.
Why Visit?
- Dramatic coastal scenery
- Kynance Cove’s white sands
- Unique wildlife and nature trails
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Trenoweth Villa (Close location)
- Rene’s Cottage (Unique property)
- Bretagne (Cosy Cottage)
8. St Michael’s Mount: A Medieval Marvel
St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island that’s both a fascinating historical site and a stunning natural landmark. You can walk across the causeway at low tide or take a boat when the tide is high. The castle and gardens on the mount are full of history and offer panoramic views over the surrounding area.
Why Visit?
- Medieval castle with breathtaking views
- Beautiful gardens to explore
- Tidal causeway for adventurous walks
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Petra 2 (Sea views!)
- Sea Grove Gallery (Close location)
- Little Kantara (Stunning Interior)
9. Looe: Quaint Fishing Village
Cornwall is famous for its incredible surf, and Porthcawl Beach is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, this beach offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity. With its wide sandy shoreline and towering dunes, it’s a family-friendly spot with plenty of space to explore.
Why Visit?
- Perfect for surfing and water sports
- Stunning sand dunes and beaches
- Great for families
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Ivydene (Amazing views)
- Sandplace (Harbour Views)
- 1 River View (Cosy Cottage)
10. Mousehole: A Quaint Seaside Village
For those looking to experience Cornwall’s traditional charm, Mousehole is a picturesque village that feels like stepping back in time. Narrow streets lined with whitewashed cottages, a small harbour filled with fishing boats, and cosy pubs make Mousehole the ideal destination for a peaceful retreat.
Why Visit?
- Charming harbor village with narrow streets
- Peaceful atmosphere and coastal walks
- Great dining and local seafood
Accommodation Suggestions-
- Harbourside (Next to harbour)
- Gwylan House (Cosy cottage)
- The Kellan (sea views)
Conclusion
Cornwall is a region that offers something for every traveller. From the rugged cliffs of Land’s End to the artistic haven of St Ives, the historic Tintagel Castle, and the culinary delights of Padstow, Cornwall’s diversity and beauty are sure to leave you wanting more. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready for a memorable adventure in one of the UK’s most beautiful regions.
If none of the accommodation suggested is for you take a look at our Cornwall section on our website HERE
