Voted the Best UK Holiday Region for ten out of the last 11 years, it’s no surprise that Cornwall is one of the UK’s leading staycation hotspots. It doesn’t matter when you visit Cornwall, you will be sure to experience some of Britain’s best coastal towns, villages, and attractions.

Our friends at Cornish Horizons, one of Cornwall’s leading self-catering agencies, share their top 10 things to do in Cornwall whilst in the region.

Cornish Horizons have nearly 900 hand-picked holiday cottages in Cornwall so are the perfect place if you’re thinking about or looking to book a holiday in the region. Whether you’re looking for a dog-friendly cottage near Looe, idyllic converted barn in the peaceful countryside of North Cornwall, or maybe contemporary accommodation overlooking Fistral beach in Newquay – they can help!

1. St Michael’s Mount

Visit the amazing island world of St Michael’s Mount and discover legend, myth and over a thousand years of incredible history. Stroll across the granite causeway, or cross by boat and enjoy a very different day out! Tread medieval pathways, climb to the castle, admire the views, hear the islanders’ tales and unearth history in every step.

2. Minack Theatre

Set in sub-tropical gardens, overlooking the remarkable Porthcurno Bay, Cornwall’s world-famous open-air theatre presents dramas, musicals and opera with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop! Listed as one of the world’s most spectacular theatres, from May to September visitors can enjoy performances in this dramatic clifftop setting. It’s hard to believe that just under eighty years ago there was nothing there except a sloping gully of gorse and heather and below that, the almighty ocean.

3. Eden Project

Voted the Best UK Leisure Attraction for 5 years running, and with a reputation worldwide, the Eden Project is a must-visit Cornish attraction, especially if you’ve never been before! Nestled in a crater, the size of 30 football pitches is two biomes – one which simulates a rainforest environment and the second, a Mediterranean environment – both house thousands of plant species. The Rainforest Biome is, in fact, the world’s largest greenhouse.

4. Geevor Mine

Geevor tine mine is one of the largest preserved mine sites in the country and a Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. Geevor was one of Cornwall’s last working tin mines, and since its closure in 1990, the tin mine has operated as a museum and education centre. Housed in two acres of listed buildings, Geevor’s collections and guides bring the story of Cornwall’s rich industrial past to life. The café serves an excellent pasty too!

5. Tintagel Castle

Immerse yourself in a legendary adventure unlike any other. Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur, at Tintagel Castle you can walk amongst the castle ruins, find early-medieval remains and soak up the natural beauty of the headland. Why not head down to sea level and stroll along the sandy beach and venture into Merlin’s Cave? Tintagel Castle has fired the imaginations of writers, royals, artists and poets for hundreds of years. Now it’s your turn to be inspired.

6. Tate St Ives – Barbara Hepworth Museum

Tate St Ives is an iconic art gallery which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean in St Ives. It showcases some of the best-loved British artwork (many of which have links to the St Ives area), alongside an ever-changing programme of exhibitions. The Tate also manages the nearby Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and it is possible for visitors to buy a joint ticket.

Barbara Hepworth was one of Britain’s most important twentieth-century artists, and visiting her museum and sculpture garden offers a remarkable insight into her work. Sculptures in bronze, stone, and wood are on display, along with paintings, drawings, and archive material.

7. Lizard Point

Walk the stunning clifftop paths and enjoy Britain’s most southerly point with its own unique landscape and stunning views. The only buildings on this flower-covered headland are two old-fashioned cafés serving a selection of delicious food and drinks. Whilst this far south, make sure you also stop off at Kynance Cove and Cadgwith – you won’t be disappointed!

8. The Monkey Sanctuary

Situated near Looe, Wild Futures’ Monkey Sanctuary has been caring for a range of different monkey species since 1964. Offering visitors an intimate insight into a working sanctuary and a chance to meet some of its monkey residents and other wildlife inhabitants. With a wild play area, playground and beautiful Wildlife Gardens – there’s something for everyone!

9. Port Isaac – home of Doc Martin

Set amidst the magnificent North Cornwall coastline, Port Isaac is a traditional Cornish fishing village that’s home to the singing group, Fisherman’s Friends, and TV series Doc Martin starring Martin Clunes. Renowned for its narrow winding streets lined with whitewashed cottages that all head towards the picturesque harbour where you can watch local fishermen land their daily catch.

10. Fowey – home of Daphne du Maurier

Set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Fowey is a small town located at the mouth of the River Fowey with a large, deep water harbour. Due to its location and vibrant maritime history, Fowey is a magnet for sailing fans. Fowey is full of charming small, independent shops and eateries, selling everything from gifts, artwork, clothing, and books.

Fowey’s most famous resident, Daphne du Maurier, spent much of her life in the area with many of her novels being set in Cornwall. References to her work can be found everywhere in and around the town.

11. Find accommodation in Cornwall, England

Have we tempted you to visit Cornwall yet?

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