The Best Places To Visit In Cornwall

Words: Kate Thompson

With its spectacular coastline, top hotels amazing food scene and fascinating heritage, it’s no wonder that Cornwall is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK. Here are a few of our favourite places to visit on a Cornish summer break.

Newquay

The town of Newquay is perhaps an obvious choice, but there’s a reason it tops so many holidaymakers’ lists of places to visit in Cornwall. You’re spoilt for choice if you’re seeking out a scenic stretch of sand, with no less than eleven beaches dotted around the nearby shoreline, including popular surfing spot Fistral Beach.

Our favourite, though, is Watergate Bay, 3 miles outside the town centre (so a 15-minute drive or an admittedly challenging 45-minute walk). It’s worth the journey, though; this gleaming, dog-friendly beach offers two miles of golden sand, perfect for walking, swimming, and surfing, backed by striking cliffs and with plenty of rockpools for kids to explore.

If you’re looking to explore Cornwall’s thriving foodie scene, Newquay is a great place to start. Visit the Fish House on Fistral Beach for mouth-wateringly fresh seafood, or enjoy pan-asian and fusion cuisine and views across the bay at Kahuna.

Where to stay: Fistral Beach Apartments or Newquay Bay Resort

If you’re searching for fun for the whole family, and you’re not wanting to leave behind your beloved pooch, try out these dog-friendly hotels in Cornwall.

Polperro

A visit to Polperro is like stepping into the past. With cars banned from its winding streets, this charming historic fishing village makes a gorgeous place for a stroll among the traditional fishermen’s cottages, many of which are covered in flowers during the summer months. You’ll find plenty of shops offering souvenirs such as local paintings and pottery, and if you’re interested in history, the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling and Fishing is well worth visiting.

Polperro’s attractive protected harbour is filled with little boats and brims with maritime charm, while a small sheltered beach just next to it offers a perfect place to relax alongside the waves.

For further seafront adventures close by, Talland Bay is around a half-hour walk from the village (or you can drive if you prefer). Here you’ll find two lovely quiet beaches great for swimming, rockpooling or even launching boats.

Where to stay: Par Sands Holiday Park

Looe

The seaside destination of Looe spans a river, the two halves of this appealing town connected by a bridge. This superb place is a beloved tourist destination, which is no surprise given its beautiful harbour and glorious beach.
Also of note here is Looe Island. Owned by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, this is an unspoilt haven a mile off the shore whose surrounding waters are a marine nature reserve. Why not take a boat trip out there from the harbour and explore its secrets for yourself?

Where to stay: Seaview Holiday Village

Michael Paul Holidays specialises in luxury and best in class holiday homes near the UK’s top beaches, local attractions and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Find out more at michaelpaulholidays.co.uk.