Cornish Coast

A dramatic and rugged coastline famous for its turquoise coves, golden beaches, and charming fishing villages scattered along 300 miles of spectacular scenery. It's the premier destination in the South West for beaches, surfing, and coastal walks.

Things to do

• Surf at Fistral Beach — Ride consistent Atlantic swells at Cornwall's most famous surf spot near Newquay, suitable for all skill levels with nearby schools and beach breaks.
• Walk the South West Coast Path — Trek sections of Britain's longest footpath offering 630 miles of dramatic clifftop views, hidden coves, and coastal villages between Devon and Dorset.
• Explore Polperro village — Wander the narrow streets and harbourside of this quintessential fishing village with art galleries, cafes, and authentic working fishing boats.
• Visit Tintagel Castle — Discover the ruins of this dramatic clifftop medieval castle linked to Arthurian legend, perched on a rocky promontory on the north coast.
• Kayak the turquoise waters of Kynance Cove — Paddle through crystal-clear azure waters surrounded by towering granite cliffs and hidden sea caves on the Lizard Peninsula.
• Search for rockpools at Porthtowan — Investigate tidal pools teeming with starfish, anemones, and crabs along this sandy beach backed by dramatic cliffs.

Food to try

• Cornish Pasty — A baked pastry filled with beef, swede, potato, and onion, originally created as a hearty meal for miners and now Cornwall's most iconic dish with Protected Geographical Indication status.
• Fish and Chips with local catch — Freshly battered cod, haddock, or pollock from daily fishing fleets served with chips from independent coastal chipies, best eaten by the harbour.
• Cornish Crab Sandwich — Sweet white crab meat from local pots served simply with mayo and salad in crusty bread, a specialty of fishing villages like Padstow and Mousehole.
• Cornish Cream Tea — Fresh scones served warm with clotted cream (thicker than Devon's) and jam, a traditional afternoon ritual in seaside tearooms throughout the coast.
• Seaweed-based dishes — Local chefs and producers incorporate nori, sea lettuce, and other foraged seaweed into breads, salts, and seasonings reflecting Cornwall's maritime heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect tide times and lifeguard zones — Always check local tide tables before beach visits and swim only in designated lifeguard-patrolled areas, as tides and currents can be extremely dangerous.
• Learn basic Cornish greetings — Cornish identity is strong here; locals appreciate visitors who acknowledge the language with phrases like 'Kernewek' (Cornish) or 'Gwetha dhis' (hello).
• Support local fishing communities — Buy directly from fishmongers and harbourside stalls rather than supermarkets to sustain the traditional fishing villages that define Cornish coastal culture.
• Plan around school holidays and weekends — Summer holidays and weekends see massive tourist influxes; visit in shoulder seasons (Easter, May half-term, September) for quieter beaches and authentic local experiences.