The sun’s in the sky, the sound of the sea is in your ears and you’re having a picnic by a very scenic stretch of Cornish coast. Maybe you’re with your partner or it’s a big family gathering. Perhaps you’re enjoying the view on your own or with friends. Whichever it is you won’t be able to deny that Cornwall in the sun is beautiful.
The South West of England has long been a tourist hotspot. There is something for everyone amongst the coves, beaches, waves and rolling hills. Whether you want an action packed adventure with friends, a family getaway or a romantic staycation for two you’re sure to find it in this picturesque county.
But, if you’re visiting Cornwall where do you visit and stay? The country is quite sizeable and with so much of it facing the sea you’ll have no shortage of lovely fishing villages, small country hamlets or bustling port towns to explore.
So, with the whole country at your feet where do you start? In this article we’ve shared our top 4 places to visit and stay in Cornwall. If you’re looking for suggestions for things to do in the county our list should give you plenty of inspiration.
Why is Cornwall a great place to spend a UK staycation?
Cornwall has something to offer everyone and no matter the type of vacation you’re on the county can deliver the perfect break for you, your partner, your friends or your family.
Whether it’s the weather you’re after, adventurous activities, food or the great outdoors you can find whatever you want in Cornwall.
Are you a family planning a big trip away. You can buy or rent a luxury holiday home from Encore Parcs and enjoy Cornwall from your own holiday home. You can relax, head to the beach or check out the many attractions the county has to offer. There’s plenty of kid friendly things to do and the beach is fun no matter what age you’re at.
If it’s a romantic getaway you’re after, Cornwall boasts many beauty spots and pristine beaches where you can spend quality time with your other half. After a day of walking the shores and hills you can head into town to eat from some of the UK’s best restaurants.
For friends looking for a UK staycation with a difference Cornwall has all the adventure you could ask for. The area is famous for surfing but don’t let that restrict your imagination. A whole host of water sports are available for groups as well as bike riding, climbing and walking. Or, if relaxing is more your thing you can sit back on the decking of your holiday lodge, crack a beer and watch the world go by.
No matter the reason for your trip you’ll find something to do and love about Cornwall. But where are the best places to visit? We’ve listed our top 4 favourite places to go in Cornwall below.
Our top 4 places to holiday in Cornwall
Cornwall is a big place and visitors are never short of things to go and towns to explore. Below we’ve listed our 4 favourite places to visit when in the county.
Newquay
The surfing capital of the UK, Newquay boasts pristine beaches, bustling bars and great food. A surfers paradise friends, families and couples can find adventurous activities to suit all skill levels and abilities in the town. Located on the Northern coast of Cornwall the town is known for its warm climate and pleasant weather so pack shorts if you’re heading out to eat because you’ll likely be dining al fresco.
Penzance
Famed for its pirates and smuggling past, Penzance is now a busy market town and tourist destination tucked away right on the very edge of West Cornwall. Like all towns in the region it has strong links to the sea but is also a great hub for exploring inland Cornwall and its rolling hills and small villages.
You can rent bikes from the town to check out the surrounding areas as well as take in all the vibrant independent shops and activities the town has to offer.
St Ives
Just a stone’s throw away from Penzance is St Ives, a picturesque seaside town and fishing harbour that was voted in Europe’s top ten beaches by Trip Advisor. Packed with independent shops, lovely bars; and great cafés and restaurants, a wander through St Ives cobbled streets is like going back in time, exploring an old city and uncovering secret treasures.
Port Isaac
The smallest and most Northerly location on this list, Port Isaac is a beautiful fishing village 20 miles North of Newquay. See Cornwall’s famous white washed cottages and sample some of its best food and drink in the many restaurants, pubs and bars which surround this charming village.
Are you ready for your first trip to Cornwall?
If you’re planning your first trip to Cornwall we hope the above list has given you some inspiration and ideas of where to visit. If you’re a return visitor hopefully this list has given you a few new places to go and check out. Whether it’s your first or hundredth time visiting you’ll need a place to stay.
Encore Parcs is happy to help. We operate the Willow Bay holiday park in Cornwall and have homes to rent or buy for families, friends and couples looking for a UK staycation in the sun. Contact us for more information.
