Ahoy matey! So you bethinking of visiting Kernow then? A wild moorland surrounded by epic landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and countless geological marvels. Where spirits of sneaky, skilled smugglers are said to linger beneath the tall, wispy roots of the earth. Where land meets sea, and Celtic folk legends come to life. And should remain very quiet and still, you might just find yourself immersed in the enchanting world of the Cornish Piskies. So hoist the sails and set course for adventure, a never-endin’ maze of beauty be awaitin’ to be plundered!
Cornwall, home to the Cornish Pasty and the legendary King Arthur, is a stunning county in South-West England. Known for its wildflowers, radiant cliffs, and sandy beaches, as well as its exceptional beer and delicious ice cream. No matter where you roam in this Celtic kingdom, you'll discover an endless labyrinth of beauty waiting to be explored. But where to start in this Celtic Kingdom? Gather 'round and I'll tell ye a tale...
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| The coast of Charlestown, Cornwall |
1. Charlestown
Charlestown is a picturesque village renowned for its historical significance and 18th-century charm, famously featured in the series Poldark. Its scenic harbour, lined with traditional tall ships, offers a glimpse into maritime history and invites exploration of the rugged coastline and hidden caves.
Dine At: The Rashleigh Arms and indulge in a seafood platter with a friend (or be a little greedy and enjoy it all yourself) and pair it with a glass of Camel Valley Bacchus, a Proper Job or Korev beer, brewed right in the heart of Cornwall with the finest Cornish Spring water.
Embrace Tradition: Savour a Cornish ‘Cream Tea’ at one of the local shacks or cafes.
2. Porthpean Beach
Known as the 'Cornish Riviera', Porthpean Beach is the perfect spot to spend an entire day. Stroll through the vibrant, green rock pools and alongside nesting birds as you search for iridescent shells and sea glass. I could easily spend hours here scouring the sand for shiny treasures—after all, I’m a bit of a child at heart and love making jewellery!
Savour: Treat yourself to a strawberry and clotted cream ice cream at Porthpean Beach Shop, which overlooks the English Channel.
Stay Active: Instead of lounging, embrace a scenic stroll back to Charlestown along the crumbling cliffs above and forage for some wild garlic as you go.
3. Tintagel Village & Castle
Prepare to spend an entire day in Tintagel, as you won’t want to leave this enchanting place. The village is a romantic haven steeped in myth and mystery, filled with quirky vintage gift shops and a charming organic honey shop. After exploring the delightful Cornish community, make your way to Tintagel Castle. On a warm summer day, this medieval fortress is one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever encounter. Dating back to the Dark Ages, it’s rumoured to be the birthplace of King Arthur.
Stop Off At: King Arthur's Arms for a local brew and a bite to eat—perhaps a classic pasty?
Don’t Miss: Merlin's Cave, located beneath Tintagel Castle, is a must-see!
Bonus Tip: Just an 8-minute car journey from Tintagel (or a 40 minute walk), you’ll find St. Nectan's Glen Waterfall. This enchanting spot is a sanctuary for flora and fauna, steeped in tales of fairies, piskies, and spirits. Follow the woodland path that leads you to the stunning waterfall.
4. Mevagissey
If you’re a true Brit, you know it’s an unwritten rule to indulge in fish and chips at least once or twice (maybe thrice) whilst on holiday in England. And if you’re particularly cool and very British like me, you’ll enjoy it by the harbour, no matter the weather... As you politely shiver on a bench for five minutes, pretending to savour the atmospheric view while seagulls swoop in to annoy you—only to have the moment spoiled so you end up devouring your lukewarm meal in the car.
Don’t Miss: The Fountain Inn pub and the FREE Aquarium along the harbour.
All Aboard: The ferry to the sailor's village of Fowey! Made famous by English novelist Daphne Du Maurier who spent much of her life in Cornwall creating sea-inspired works, Fowey (pronounced 'foy' as in 'toy') features a picturesque estuary and rich literary history. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets, discover cosy pubs and independent cafes and local maritime culture.
5. The Lost Gardens of Heligan
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is a paradise where nature and artistry intertwine. Nestled in a hidden valley, the gardens whisper tales of the past through their vibrant blooms, ancient trees, and whimsical sculptures draped in emerald moss. Whether you're captivated by the exotic plant collection, the Victorian gardens, or the playful wildlife, Heligan invites you to lose yourself in its beauty and wonder, making every visit feel like a journey into a fairytale, provided you have an NUS card, that is. Without it, tickets are £14.50 (ouch!), but with how expansive the grounds are, it could take days to explore every corner, making the price worthwhile—especially for nature lovers who can manage a few hours without Wi-Fi and appreciate boundless beauty and countless trees... You could always borrow a student and pay just £8.50!
Try: A homemade Cheese & Onion pasty at the Heligan Kitchen Café.
Have a Seat: In the interactive Hide, where you can enjoy the beauty of various British birds.
Buy: A bottle of Clotted Cream Gin from the Heligan Shop.
