Cornwall is a truly stunning county and if you’ve never visited, it’s a destination that should definitely be on your bucket list. Packed full of charming, pretty villages and bustling market towns, the county is steeped in history with many memorable places of interest. Here are just a few of the best towns and villages to include in your itinerary:
St Ives
The light here is world-renowned and that’s why it’s so popular with artists and has been for a long time. The Tate Gallery St Ives is well worth a visit, as is the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. The town is full of charming, picturesque fishing cottages, narrow cobbled lanes and has a distinct arty vibe with craft shops, boutiques and cafes. Be sure to visit the town’s oldest pub, The Sloop Inn, built in 1312.
Polperro
This is arguably one of the prettiest spots in Cornwall, nestled as it is in a cliff ravine. It gets very popular in the summer but is well worth a visit at any time of the year. Most of the activity is centred around the harbour and the steep streets provide some excellent views. Another artist hangout, there are some brilliant galleries in the town to visit as well.
Fowey
You know you’re onto a winner when you hear that Fowey sits in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The small port town dates back to 1300 with incredible medieval buildings and a long and illustrious maritime heritage.
Falmouth
For family-friendly fun, you can’t wrong with Falmouth and its 4 nearby world-class beaches. It’s a vibrant destination with many events and festivals taking place, as well as water sports and boat tours from the pier and quay. Nearby Pendennis Castle is a great place to explore, as is the National Maritime Museum and Trebah Garden. Take a coach trip with Coach Hire Dorset. For coach hire in Dorset visit Turners Coaches for more information.
Padstow
Foodies will love Padstow, especially since Rick Stein put it firmly on the culinary map. It remains a working fishing port and is a wonderful example of traditional Cornish architecture and culture. You can experience some of the most delicious seafood here, before enjoying the soft, golden sands of no less than 7 nearby beaches!
Looe
Another charming fishing village, Looe is split down the middle by the River Looe and back in medieval times, was actually two separate towns. A bridge now joins the two halves, constructed in 1853. Looe boasts its own beach and many buildings of interest, including the Old Guildhall in East Looe that was built in 1500.
Penzance
A wonderfully atmospheric and memorable place, its name comes from Pen Sans, meaning holy headland. It is the most westerly located big town in the county facing the English Channel and has one of the mildest climates in the whole of the UK. Thanks to this, you’ll see plenty of tropical plant and palm trees to go with its impressive architecture and surrounding ancient sites.