Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
In recent times the county of Cornwall has become world famous for its great beaches, top surf spots, delicious local food, and laid-back way of life.
Lovers of the ocean will be in their element exploring picturesque fishing villages, drinking local ales in smuggler's inns, sampling freshly caught seafood, taking on new water sports or simply losing track of time on Cornwall's 300 or so beautiful golden beaches.
Walkers will relish the longest stretch of continuous coastline in Britain on the South West Coast Path. Inland, hundreds of miles of toe paths reveal a lesser known Cornwall of rugged moorland, ancient market towns, tin mining heritage and fascinating remains of prehistoric cultures.
Take a look at the ideas on this page for more inspiration. For detailed information and booking online go to the official Visit Cornwall and Simply Scilly websites.
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accommodation in Cornwall and to book online, go to:
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Must Sees
Cornish beaches
Surf, scuba dive, sail or simply lie on the sand and watch the clouds drift by. Cornwall has over 300 beaches to choose from!
The Isles of Scilly
Just 28 miles off the southwest tip of Cornwall, lies the small, beautiful archipelago of the Isles of Scilly, boasting mile after mile of white sandy beaches, acres of natural landscape to explore and a rich and fascinating history - time seems to move more slowly here.
Tintagel Castle
For over 800 years a tale has been told that Tintagel was the birthplace of the noble King Arthur, born to the beautiful Queen Igerna and protected from evil by the magician, Merlin, who lived in a cave below the nighty fortress.
The castle offers breathtaking views and a fascinating history. Roman settlement, Dark Age palace, Medieval fortress - Tintagel's history is fascinating and there are many secrets still being revealed ...
The Eden Project
This world famous global garden is housed in tropical biomes nestled in a crater the size of 30 football pitches. A gateway into the relationships between plants and people, and a fascinating insight into the story of man's dependence on plant life.
Tate St Ives
Take in an exhibition featuring the cream of local, national and international artists at this stunning beach front gallery.
Don't miss the nearby Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, which gives a remarkable insight into one of Britain's most important 20th Century sculptors.
Get a fabulous workout as you ride the waves of one of Europe's top surfing destinations. With a variety of reef and beach breaks scattered along both the north and south coasts, there is a wave for all weather conditions and for every level of surfer.
The Minack Theatre is the most famous cliffside theatre in Britain, possibly in the world, carved into the granite cliff overlooking the spectacular panorama of Porthcurno Bay.
With one of the most scenic, and longest (over 300 miles) stretches of the South West Coast Path, and an inland path network of over 2,400 miles no walker could ever get bored here.
Get the blood pumping! From Abseiling to Zorbing - if you're feeling brave take the plunge and conquer an extreme sport.
From restaurants made famous by the likes of Rick Stein and Jamie Oliver, to delicious pasties and Cornish ice cream, there's fine dining to suit every visitor.Hidden Gems
St Michael’s Mount
This iconic island rises gracefully to the church and castle at its summit. Accessible on foot at low tide across a causeway, or at other times by a short, evocative boat trip. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and discover legend, myths and over a thousand years of incredible history.
Mousehole
Explore narrow lanes darting between charming cottages on the hillside around this walled harbour that Dylan Thomas called 'the loveliest in England'.
Padstow
Padstow's colourful harbour surrounded by pastel-washed medieval houses make it a great spot to watch the everyday ebb and flow of harbour life.
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Unveiled in 1992 from under decades of overgrowth, the Lost Gardens were restored on a shoestring budget and hailed by The Times as "...the garden restoration of the century".
Today the mysterious gardens and estate offer over 200 acres for exploration, hosting a riot of luxuriant foliage, outstanding trees and inspiring views.
The National Seal Sanctuary
Located on Cornwall's beautiful Helford River, The National Seal Sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates and releases over 40 seal pups a year.
History and Heritage
Cornwall's rich history and culture still lives and breathes through the sites and scenery scattered throughout the county today. With over 50 miles of heritage coastline, stone circles, castles and a rich maritime heritage, it's a history worthy of discovery and celebration.