Cornish Coast
One of Britain’s most popular holiday destinations, Cornwall boasts fabulous sandy beaches, stunning walks and headlands offering spectacular views. Drive from Bude, with its tidal swimming pool and sandy beach, to Boscastle. This charming town is known for its Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, full of weird, creepy things to fascinate and unsettle you! Further along the coast is Tintagel, a ruined medieval castle, where it’s claimed King Arthur was born. The visitor centre has a small historic exhibition, and a new bridge offers stunning views across the bay. There’s also a bronze sculpture of King Arthur, and you can go inside Merlin’s Cave at low tide.
Continue south to Cornwall’s favourite surfing destination, Newquay, where every August the Broadmasters Festival of music and surfing takes place. Thousands of people descend on this pretty seaside town, which has lots of fun shops and a cliff-top aquarium, where you can watch the fish without getting wet. Snorkelling trips are available too, if you have the weather for it!
Along the coast, St Ives is known for its surfing opportunities and art exhibitions. Penzance, best known for singing pirates, has a number of cultural attractions, including Penlee House Gallery and Museum, Trengwainton Gardens and Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens. The tidal island of St Michael’s Mount is worth a visit in the nearby town of Marazion.
At Helston you’re on the doorstep of the Lizard Peninsula, which is well worth exploring on foot because the scenery is stunning. There’s a lighthouse, a quaint village and some great walks along the South West Coast Path. Dogs are welcome at the cafe on Lizard Point, and the scenery is second to none.
Further along the coast is Falmouth with its fabulous Maritime Museum and pretty harbour. From there you can explore the beautiful landscapes of the Roseland Heritage Coast, visiting St Mawes Castle, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, the Eden Project, or if you prefer, secluded beaches and bays. The Cornish coastal scenery won’t disappoint.