Cornwall was made for those family escapes, and no matter how many times you visit there’s always another view to take your breath away. As Poldark’s galloped his way across our screens over the last few years the nation’s fallen head over heels in love with Cornwall holidays all over again. Those sweeping coastal views and sandy beaches are just waiting to be discovered, so whether it’s a Cornwall holiday with a hot tub you’re needing or a cottage with EV charging, it’s time to start thinking about embarking on your own Cornish adventure.
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Did you know? A local’s guide to Cornwall holidays…
Cornwall’s favourite attractions
Cornwall may be easy on the eye, but it’s so much more than a pretty face! There’s a day out to suit every kind of visitor (and every kind of weather). Let’s start with one of Cornwall’s favourite attractions, the spectacular Eden Project. Those gigantic biomes continue to inspire visitors of all ages, and there are plenty of activities to bring the attraction to life for the little ones.
If you’re intent on following in Poldark’s footsteps then head to West Cornwall. You’ll be able to visit the mining landscape that stars as the backdrop to the series. The abandoned engine house of Wheal Owles at Botallack, is one of the most famous Poldark locations, so it’s a great spot for a wander and some photo opportunities. For good old fashioned family attractions in Cornwall, it’s got to be Newquay. You’ll find surf schools galore, Newquay Zoo and the Blue Reef Aquarium, and that’s before you even head to the beaches!
Cornwall family holidaysBeaches in Cornwall
Speaking of beaches in Cornwall, it’s time to get those flip flops and beach towels packed. Cornwall holidays are all about finding a little patch of sand and calling it home (for a day anyway!). If you’re after popular beaches that have everything the kids like, head to Towan Beach in Newquay. This sandy beach is so close to the centre of town you won’t have far to carry those beach bags, and the Blue Reef Aquarium is right beside it too.
If you fancy catching a wave or two, head to Fistral. The centre of Cornwall’s thriving surf scene, Fistral’s home to the Newquay Activity Centre. The centre’s professionals can teach pretty much anyone to surf (they aim to have you standing on the board within two hours of being in the water), and what a way to get the kids excited about family breaks again!
Perranporth Beach is another firm favourite, and it’s one of those stretches of sand that seem to go on forever. A beautiful spot for a walk or a day in the sun, this beach is close to the town centre too, so it’s pretty much perfect.
Cornwall beach cottagesRestaurants in Cornwall
They may be a laidback bunch in Cornwall, but the county’s home to a huge foodie scene. Cornwall holidays are about tucking into locally sourced dishes with views that are Instagram gold. If you head to Port Isaac (made famous as the setting for Doc Martin), you’ll find Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen, set in a former fisherman’s cottage overlooking the harbour.
Over in Padstow, Rick Stein’s foodie empire draws food fans from all over the country. Whether you keep it casual and opt for Stein’s Fish & Chips, or go fancy at The Seafood Restaurant, you can expect fresh fish you’ll never forget. Over in Falmouth, The Wheelhouse Restaurant has a huge following on Trip Advisor, so make sure you add it to your list of restaurant in Cornwall to sample. This colourful shack serves up mouthwatering seafood dishes with a great atmosphere – and it’s an experience as much as it is an eatery.
Find a Cornwall coastal cottageDog Friendly Cornwall
One of the best things about Cornwall is that dogs receive a warm welcome wherever possible. There are more dog friendly Cornwall pubs, restaurants and attractions than you can shake a stick at, and that means there’s no need to leave your best friend behind. The dog friendly beaches aren’t too bad either, and they include Fistral Beach in Newquay, Summerleaxe Beach in Bude, Harlyn Bay in Padstow and Watergate Bay near Newquay.
The Bodmin & Wenford railway welcomes dogs aboard, and dogs are welcome to wander the miles and miles of pathways at the Eden Project. They’re not allowed inside the biomes, but you can still enjoy a unique walkies in a beautiful setting.
Dog-friendly cottages in Cornwall-
How many beaches are there in Cornwall?
There are over 300 beaches in Cornwall which is unsurprising really when you consider that its Peninsula has more than 400 miles of coastline. Within those miles are 158 or so of Heritage Coast, which are areas that are recognised for their natural beauty and wildlife.
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What is the longest beach in Cornwall?
With high cliffs characterising much of its nearly 4-mile stretch, Whitsand Bay probably takes the top spot, extending from Rame Head to Portwrinkle. Long sandy beaches and rocky coves (exposed at low tide) make this an incredibly beautiful piece of the Cornish coast.
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How cold is the sea in Cornwall?
Generally speaking, sea temperatures in Cornwall range from around 7°C (about 44.6°F) during a cold winter up to 18°C (about 64.4°F) in the warmest of summer months.
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When is the best time of year to visit Cornwall?
If sunning yourself on the beach is not your top priority there are many other wonderful times to visit Cornwall outside of the summer months. During May, September and October for instance, when the weather is cooler but bright, Cornwall puts on some of its best festivals including the St Ives Food & Drink Festival (May) and Falmouth Oyster Festival (October). Christmas is a fantastic time of year too with festivals like the famous switching on of Mousehole Harbour Christmas Lights and Padstow Food Festival. With so much coast path to explore, Cornwall is also brilliant any time of the year for walking and cycling, and if you have dogs you’ll be able to enjoy some of the county’s best beaches with your fur babies by your side.
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