Cornwall is often regarded as a luxury destination, known for its high-end restaurants and exclusive developments – so, for visitors who want to enjoy this region without overspending, the Coast team has created this budget-friendly guide – Alex Fisher
1. BOOK A PACKAGE HOLIDAY
1. The Lugger Hotel
Package holidays aren’t just for travelling abroad – they offer good value for staying in the UK, too. We recommend this walking break based at The Lugger Hotel in the fishing village of Portloe on Cornwall’s Roseland Peninsula. You can explore the South West Coast Path and enjoy the hotel’s two AA Rosette restaurant, with a menu focused on fresh local ingredients. Shellfish, lobster and crab are just some of the highlights, and diners also get to enjoy views of the sea and harbour. Great Little Breaks offers a two-night package from £289 per person (based on two sharing), which includes daily breakfast, dinner on both evenings, a packed lunch and walking maps (greatlittlebreaks.com).
2. CAMP OR GLAMP
The clear and tranquil spring-fed lake within the Cornish Tipi Holidays site can be used for boating, fishing and swimming
If you need to stick to a budget, camping or glamping could be the answer. Cornish Tipi Holidays offers a gorgeous setting for a family adventure. Open from April to October and spread across 20 acres, this campsite surrounds a spring-fed lake formed from the old Tregildrans Quarry. You can pitch your own tent among oak trees, bluebells, ferns and abundant wildlife – wild camping costs from £20 per adult and £10 per child a night. Alternatively, rent one of the tipis, which accommodate two to six people and start from £186 for a two-night stay. Either way, you get access to facilities that include flushing toilets, hot showers and firepits, and the lake can be used for swimming, boating and fishing. Call 01208 880781 or visit cornishtipiholidays.co.uk.
3. STAY IN A HOSTEL
Located in pretty – but very popular – St Ives, Cohort hostel offers a simple, affordable stay just a short walk from the beach and galleries. Ideal for solo travellers, families or small groups, it has private rooms along with dorm beds. Onsite facilities include a kitchen, dining area and TV room, as well as a hot outdoor shower, wetsuit drying areas and secure storage for surfboards and bikes. Free tea and coffee are available before 10am and there’s an outdoor café and courtyard. Dorm beds cost from £20 per night and private rooms from £50. Call 01736 791664 or visit stayatcohort.co.uk.
4. ENJOY A PASTY LUNCH
A visit to Cornwall isn’t complete without sampling a Cornish pasty – these can be found freshly baked in most towns and, as lunch options go, they are convenient, tasty, filling and affordable. Philps has seven shops serving traditional pasties dotted around Cornwall – find the locations and other details on the website (philpspasties.co.uk).
If you find yourself in pricy Padstow, you can pick up a great pasty and coffee made by the team at the legendary Chough Bakery. At around £5 per head – and the best view of the harbour at no extra charge – this traditional, hearty meal still provides great value (cornishpasty.com).
5. TRAVEL BY BUS AND TRAIN
Beat the gridlock and save on parking fees by taking public transport. At £16 for adults and £8 for children, a Great Western Railway (GWR) Cornwall Ranger ticket offers a day of unlimited off-peak rail travel around the county. Hop between the coast and charming villages with ease (gwr.com/your-tickets/choosing-your-ticket/rangers-and-rovers).
Meanwhile, a day bus pass lets the whole family enjoy unlimited travel for just £16! You can make the journey your destination with scenic routes like the Land’s End Coaster (transportforcornwall.co.uk/family-group-tickets).
6. DISCOVER HIDDEN GEMS
Spend a peaceful day immersed in nature at the Japanese Garden near Newquay
Avoid the big-name attractions, which can cost up to £40 per person for a day visit, and seek out the lesser-known hidden gems – not only cheaper, but also quieter. For a peaceful day out, we love the Japanese Garden just outside Newquay. At £6 for a single day ticket and £12 for a season ticket, this beautiful garden provides a lovely location for a day of tranquility in nature. Check the website for information and seasonal opening times (japanesegarden.co.uk).
Alternatively, head for Tintagel and St Nectan’s Glen. This beautiful woodland is home to a 60-foot waterfall – and, rumour has it, that this is where you will find the famous Cornish Piskies. The walk is free of charge and day tickets to view the waterfall itself are £9 for adults and £5 for children (st-nectansglen.co.uk).
Walking in St Nectan’s Glen is free of charge, and, in Coast’s opinion, the viewing fee for the 60-foot waterfall is money well spent
7. EXPLORE THE SOUTH WEST COAST PATH
Completely free, this 630-mile trail (also taking in other counties) offers stunning views of Cornwall’s dramatic cliffs and hidden coves. It has walks to suit all abilities – just do a little advance planning to ensure your route will suit your level of fitness. It’s always open, but best experienced during daylight hours for safety. You can find a wealth of tips, guidance and ideas for free days out (and donate to the charity that maintains the path) on the official website (southwestcoastpath.org.uk).
