If you’re planning a summer staycation, Cornwall should be right at the top of your list.
With beautiful backdrops and plenty of activities on offer, there are plenty of reasons to head south and explore the various harbour villages in the county of Cornwall.
Here are some of the best Cornwall attractions to cross off your list this summer.
Fistral Beach
Whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring, Cornwall boasts some of the best beaches in the UK. The only problem you’ll face on your staycation is trying to decide which one to visit first!
A favourite for many is Fistral Beach in Newquay – particularly amongst those who love to surf. Surrounded by high cliffs and sand dunes, Fistral Beach is home to many surfing competitions including Boardmasters, Famous Night Surf and the National Surf Championships.
Fistral Beach is also overlooked by the grand Headland Hotel, famous for being the hotel featured in the film The Witches. The Beach is also a short walk from the town so plenty of cafes and shops are at your fingertips.
Some other popular Cornwall beaches include Watergate Bay beach with two miles of golden sand and Polzeath beach, perfect for digging sandcastles with the kids.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a romantic getaway or somewhere quieter, try escaping the crowds and enjoying the secret coves of Lantic Bay and Porth Joke.
The Eden Project
If your summer staycation involves a child, Cornwall has plenty of super fun attractions to keep them occupied. Let their imaginations grow wild at the Eden Project, which has become one of Cornwall’s most loved attractions.
The Eden Project is a fantastic day out for people of all ages, with the stunning outdoor botanical garden, which is home to an abundance of plants and wildlife. The attraction also consists of two large biomes used for tropical plants and is maintained at a tropical temperature.
There’s plenty to discover at The Eden Project and is a day out that will both excite and educate adults and children alike.
Paradise Park
If holidaying with the kids, treat them to the glorious sights of the local wildlife at Paradise Park. Located on Cornwall’s north coast, you’ll witness an array of exotic birds, flamingos, penguins, and much more.
Paradise Park also includes an indoor Jungle Barn play centre, so you can have fun whatever the weather!
Blue Reef Aquarium
If you do decide to pop to Newquay for a spot of surfing, don’t forget to visit the Blue Reef Aquarium afterwards.
The aquarium includes 40 naturally themed habitats and is home to turtles, pufferfish, sharks, and even giant octopuses!
The underwater tunnel is also a spectacular display for you to marvel at the array of beautiful sea creatures.
The Aqua Park
The Aqua Park, Retallack Resort and Spa also makes for a top day of entertainment with something for the whole family to enjoy. There’s inflatable water fun for the kids (and big kids), a spa for the adults needing a rest, and lovely food to feed hungry bellies at the end of the day.
Rick Stein Fish and Chips
While this may not be an attraction so to speak, no staycation in Cornwall is complete without munching on some fine fish and chips! While you can pick up a portion of fish and chips anywhere in the UK, Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips in Padstow is a must when going on holiday in Cornwall.
Additionally, Rick Stein also has a number of other cafés and restaurants in Cornwall including one that overlooks Fistral Beach – so, you can take your pick!
Cycle trails and country parks
Not only are the views of Cornwall picturesque, but they have some of the most accessible walking and cycling routes in the UK too.
From simple paths overlooking the waterfront horizon and steep coastal valleys to bustling harbours and vast moorlands, you have plenty of opportunities to get active in Cornwall. And let’s face it, exercise and exploring are always more enjoyable in the warmer months.
For keen off-road cyclists, check out the Bodmin Beast cycle trail. You’ll be faced with 12km of tough slopes up the Cardinham Valley and tricky narrow paths. Or if you’re looking to be at one with nature and take a more relaxed cycling route, the Seaton Valley Countryside Park is an ideal option. This relatively short cycle route located in Seaton includes a riverside ride and coastal views of Seaton beach. You can also enjoy the sensory garden and nature reserve to see otters, kingfishers and butterflies once you’re finished.
Before you set off though, don’t forget to kit yourself out with all the necessary cycling accessories and picnic essentials to get yourself ready for an epic Cornwall adventure.
And there you have it – some of the best Cornwall attractions for those heading on staycation this year. For all your travel and camping needs, head over to Halfords.com today!
