Five Places You Must Visit In Cornwall

Cornwall, the English Riviera, has long been a favourite holiday destination for generations of English.

It’s not surprising either. Cornwall has a great combination of sun, sea and convenience.

Helped by its southerly position in the British Isles, and soothed by the Gulf Stream as it sweeps up from the Atlantic, Cornwall often has a climate that defies the traditional image of British weather. Don’t let that fool you though, as it’s possible to have every season in one day in this enigmatic peninsula.

Cornwall is rich in history, having played its part in ancient legend, and also has a rich recent history of piracy, mining and vibrant culture.

So, we think that Cornwall is an excellent place to take your next holiday.

Tintagel Castle

Clinging to a peninsula of cliffs on the northern coast of Cornwall there is a medieval fortification called Tintagel Castle.

Although its history is unclear, it seems as though it was occupied during the Romano-British period, and originally settled during the early medieval period.

The castle was built by Richard, the 1st Earl of Cornwall, and has had a long association with the Arthurian legend, thanks to Geoffrey Of Monmoths fictional account of English history.

The castle is a fantastic site surrounded by awe-inspiring cliffs and sparkling waters. A modern bridge connecting two halves of the castle across the bay has recently opened and visitors will not fail to be amazed by the wonderful views and unique experience.

The Gardens Of Heligan

The Gardens of Heligan are a typically English estate, lost and neglected after WWI, and only in the 1990s re-discovered and brought back to life by a team who operated possibly Europe’s largest garden restoration project.

The gardens extend to 200 acres and are a paradise of the formal garden, kitchen garden and woodland.

A must-see for any nature lover or plant enthusiast, Heligan is a jewel amongst Cornwall’s crown.

Lands End

Lands End represents the most westerly point on the British Mainland. Its sister location, Lizard Point is the most Southerly point and is a short 30km hop over land.

Lands End has long been an attraction, as its views over the wild Atlantic Sea provide a dramatic, breathtaking view from the craggy cliffs.

There’s a lot to do here, from garden visits to cliff top walks taking in scenery that is world-class.

Historic sites, including castles and museums, are abundant and you’ll not be at a loss for anything to do.

And when you’re tired from the cliff walks, there’s always a pint of traditional Cornish Ale in one of the many local pubs.

Padstow Harbour

Padstow Harbour has seen a lot of interest in the last couple of decades, due in no part to it being the adopted home of several celebrity chefs.

The harbour is a working site, so expect a mix of fishing vessels bustled up alongside the usual attractions of holidaymakers.

Shops and cafés, restaurants and pubs abound along the harbour front and through the narrow winding and steep lanes.

On the estuary mouth of the River Camel, Padstow harbour is also close to beautiful, vast expanses of prime beach.

Truly a delight.

St Michael’s Mount

Last but not least is St Michael’s Mount, near Marazion on the south coast of Cornwall.

Accessible only via a causeway that can be walked at low tide, the mount has a long history and has been home to a variety of monasteries and churches.

This tidal island is a great place to visit and stroll through its narrow lanes and take in the views from the summit.

It has seen a busy history as a fishing settlement and now is now owned by the National Trust.