Cornwall’s pristine beaches, picturesque towns and mouthwatering pasties make it a popular destination for both UK staycations and tourists from further afield. With more and more of us opting to holiday in England, I’ve teamed up with Classic Cottages to bring you this guide to the best areas to stay in Cornwall, whatever kind of trip you’re planning.
Wherever you go in Cornwall, you’ll never be more than 20 miles from the sea. But whether you’re visiting for the county’s coastline, fun attractions or scenic walks, you’ll want to do some research into where to stay in Cornwall to get the most out of your trip.
Classic Cottages has a great selection of coastal accommodation in Cornwall with sea views. Cornwall can be an expensive place to visit, but opting for self-catering accommodation can help you stick to your budget.
The best areas to stay in Cornwall
1. Padstow
Known as Cornwall’s culinary capital, Padstow is one of the best places to go in Cornwall for couples. Its harbour is a hive of activity and is surrounded by a rabbit’s warren of attractive medieval streets. Active visitors should tackle the 17 mile long Camel Trail, which follows the route of the former North Cornwall Railway.
Looking for quirky romantic things to do in Cornwall? Why not sponsor a lobster together at the National Lobster Hatchery? Alternatively, visit the local vineyards and toast your holiday in Cornwall in style.
In terms of beaches, you’ve got Harlyn Bay, Trevone Beach and Treyarnon Bay to choose from. Padstow is the ideal place to try some watersports, and a visit to the town wouldn’t be complete without a meal at one of Rick Stein’s restaurants there.
2. Newquay
If you’re visiting Cornwall for the surf scene, it’s a good idea to base yourself in Newquay. Fistral Beach is hailed as the home of British surfing and there are 12 other beaches to explore in the area. You’ll find Cornwall’s only promenade there too.
Foodies should time their trip to coincide with Newquay Fish Festival, where you can enjoy live cooking demos and live music. The festival has nurtured the area’s gastronomical scene – Rick Stein has a restaurant on Fistral Beach. Walk off a slap-up lunch on the South West Coast Path. It’s 630 miles long so pick your route wisely!
Newquay is also a popular place to stay for families visiting Cornwall – kids will love Newquay Zoo, Blue Reef Aquarium and Camel Creek Adventure Park – the latter is just a 25 minute drive from Penzance.
3. St Ives
This popular British hotspot can easily hold its weight against the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches. The Cornish seaside town’s sandy bay is the obvious attraction. There are four beaches to explore but if the town’s crowds are overwhelming you, head to Porthgwidden Beach and rent one of the 39 colourful beach huts.
It’s not all about the beaches though – St Ives is the best town to stay in Cornwall for culture lovers. Overlooking Porthmeor Beach, Tate St Ives shines a spotlight on iconic local artists. A stone’s throw from the Tate, you’ll find the Barbara Hepworth Museum, which was also the 20th-century sculptor’s home.
St Ives also has some fantastic independent shops, particularly along Fore Street.
4. Penzance
If you’re not much of a beach bum but you’re keen to learn more about the destination’s history, head west to the port town of Penzance. This is the best area to visit in Cornwall if you’re planning to visit the destination’s castles and World Heritage sites.
From Penzance, you can easily visit both the quaint fishing village of Mouse Hole and St Michael’s Mount, a majestic island off the Marazion coast. In the town itself, step back in time on Chapel Street, which dates back to the 18th century. This is the best location in Cornwall for those looking for a low-key holiday.
Penzance is home to Britain’s largest lido, the art deco Jubilee Pool, as well as a number of serene gardens. Take cover in The Exchange, a contemporary art gallery with striking architecture, if the weather isn’t good.
5. St Austell
St Austell is one of the best locations to stay in Cornwall for nightlife, with the so-called Cornish Riviera within easy reach. The old market town has its own brewery which offers tours. St Austell Brewery was founded in 1851!
If you’re visiting in the summer months, The Restormel Castle is worth seeing and you can take a walk through Tregrehan Garden. On a group trip? Try your hand – or make that feet – at football golf at Cornwall Football Golf Park.
Don’t leave without spending a day at The Eden Project. Tourists come from all over to visit the world’s largest indoor rainforest.
6. Port Isaac
Those wondering where to stay in Cornwall for a walking holiday should consider Port Isaac. Many tourists use the north Cornwall town as a base for walking the South West Coast Path.
Once a thriving port, this village is made up of charming narrow streets – including Squeezy Belly Alley, which is the most extreme.
An official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there is no shortage of stunning views in and around Port Isaac. The beach there is shingle, but you can hop over to Polzeath if you’re craving the feel of sand between your toes.
7. Looe
Situated in Cornwall’s southeast on the River Looe, this active fishing harbour is ideal for families visiting Cornwall. There’s a busy fish market, plenty of rock pools for the kids to play in and pubs and cafes galore.
Some of the top attractions in Looe include museums and The Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary. There’s also the Adrenaline Quarry, which delivers what it says on the tin.
Take a trip out to Looe Island to see the area’s wildlife up-close. The protected nature reserve jmakes for a fascinating day out and you might even be able to spot grey seals if you go in the summer months.
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Jesper says
Cornwall is at the top of my list, love it!
Thanks for the tips!