Category: Places To Visit

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Things to do in Porthleven

Visitors are never short of things to do in Porthleven. This quaint Cornish village boasts stunning natural beauty. With its wild rugged coastline, golden sandy beaches & breathtaking sea views. The village is situated on the Lizard Peninsula in the south of Cornwall. Which is renowned for its unspoiled landscapes & scenic walking routes. Whether you want to relax on the sandy shores or explore the coastal paths. The village is a fantastic base for nature lovers to explore the local area.

Porthleven is also famous for its historic harbour, which dates back to the early 19th century. The picturesque harbour is still a working port, and you can still watch colourful fishing boats bobbing on the water. It’s a great place to capture some memorable photographs or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

If you’re a food enthusiast, Porthleven will not disappoint. The village has gained a reputation in recent years as a foodie destination. With a variety of excellent restaurants & eateries serving up delicious cuisine. You can savour fresh seafood caught locally or indulge in other culinary delights from around the world. While at the same time enjoying stunning coastal views.

things to do in porthleven

Porthleven Harbour

Porthleven is a haven for surfers, attracting wave riders from near and far. The village is known for its consistent and powerful waves. Making it an ideal spot for experienced surfers. If you’re a beginner, there are surf schools where you can take lessons & ride the waves under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Porthleven has a rich history that can be seen through its architecture & local landmarks. The iconic clock tower stands proudly near the harbour. You can visit the Porthleven Museum to learn about the village’s past. In particular its maritime heritage. The area is also dotted with historical sites & remnants of its recent industrial past.

The village has a charming & laid-back atmosphere. With its narrow streets, cozy cafes & art galleries. It’s a place where you can unwind, immerse yourself in the local culture & appreciate the slower pace of life. Whether you’re browsing unique shops or enjoying a cream tea. Porthleven offers a warm & welcoming ambiance.

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Newquay Zoo Visitors Guide

Newquay Zoo is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts in Cornwall. It offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals from around the world. Here is my Newquay Zoo visitors guide, to help you get the best of your day out at one of Cornwall’s premier attractions.

Over 1,000 animals, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and penguins, can be seen at Newquay Zoo. Thanks to a variety of interactive exhibits and feeding opportunities, visitors can see many of these animals up close like never before. Newquay Zoo also offers guided tours, that give visitors the chance to learn more via their team of informed and friendly staff members. These guides will tell you a lot more about the animals and their respective habitats.

The zoo offers a range of talks and presentations on various species and conservation issues throughout the day. These talks are a fantastic way to find out more about the animals and their environments. Most importantly, you can learn about the conservation efforts being made to ensure they remain out of danger from extinction.

newquay zoo visitors guide

Newquay Zoo is home to a variety of gardens and eco-systems. These include a tropical rainforest and even a desert landscape. This is in addition to the numerous animal enclosures. All of these areas are open for visitors to explore while learning more about the plants and animals that live there.

The children’s farm is a very popular part of the zoo. Kids can interact with and feed a variety of farm animals, such as goats, pigs and sheep. Also the outdoor adventure area is the ideal area for kids to play, where they can burn off some energy. There are numerous climbing structures and slides for them to have a fun play on safely.

There are plenty of places to enjoy a picnic at Newquay Zoo once you have worked up an appetite. With benches and tables located throughout the grounds. Visitors can also purchase food and drinks from the zoo’s cafes and kiosks. The zoo’s gift shop also offers a wide variety of unique souvenirs and gifts. Including stuffed animals, t-shirts, and other merchandise. Proceeds from the gift shop help support the zoo’s long term conservation efforts.

Newquay Zoo is a fantastic destination for families and animal lovers. Offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

Here is link to the the latest Newquay Zoo map to guide you on your visit.

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Visit the Scilly Isles

A tiny archipelago off the coast of Cornwall in the United Kingdom. Here are a few reasons why you should visit the Scilly Isles. A stunning & unusual destination.

Some of the UK’s most beautiful scenery can be found on the Isles of Scilly. The islands offer beautiful views and an unsurpassed tranquilly. From the golden sanded beaches & crystal clear seas, to the colourful array wildflowers & fauna.

Visitors can engage in a wide variety of outdoor pursuits on the Scilly Isles. Everyone may find something to enjoy, from hiking & cycling to sailing & kayaking. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Islands of Scilly are the ideal vacation. Mainly due to all year round moderate climate & fresh sea air.

With a distinctive culture developed by centuries of seclusion. The Scilly Isles have a long and intriguing history. There is much to learn from & explore. From the ancient ruins of the earliest settlers to the modern day regional festivals & traditions.

Visit the Scilly Isles

A Beach Lovers Dream

The Scilly Isles, which is home to more than thirty beaches. They are a beach enthusiast’s dream come true. The golden sand beaches are encircled by stunning turquoise waters. Many of the beaches are frequently free from people. Making for a unique, tranquil & soothing vacation.

The Scilly Isles are also a nature sanctuary. With a wide variety of creatures to be discovered. The islands are home to an assortment of flora & fungi, insects, & mammals. While the surrounding waters are home to rare seabirds, dolphins, seals, & basking sharks.

The Scilly Isles are a very special location that provides a variety of outdoor activities in breathtaking natural setting. A rich history & culture with pristine beaches. As well as a variety of unique animal species. The Isles of Scilly will both enthral & delight you. Whether you are searching for a tranquil hideaway for a couple of weeks or an action packed vacation.

Getting There:

By Air: The Scilly Isles have their own airport, St Mary’s Airport, which is located on the largest island. There are direct flights from numerous U.K. airports, including Exeter, & Newquay. The 30 minute flight is operated by firms such as Isles of Scilly Travel & Skybus.

By Ferry: You can also take a ferry from Penzance, which is located in Cornwall on the mainland of the United Kingdom. The ferry ride to the Scilly Isles takes around 2.5 hours & is conducted by Isles of Scilly Travel.

When you arrive on the islands, you can travel between them by boat or on foot. As the islands are quite small and easily navigable.

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St. Michael’s Mount

St. Michael’s Mount is a mysterious location with an unforgettable experience to offer visitors. Here are several great reasons for visiting one of Cornwall’s most iconic landmarks:

St. Michael’s Mount has a fascinating history and is important to Cornish culture. Since the 8th century, people have lived on the island. It has served as a religious destination, a Benedictine monastery & even a fortress during the English Civil War. The island’s 12th-century castle is filled with amazing historical items. These include armour suits & mediaeval weapons. The gardens, which were created in the 18th & 19th centuries feature exotic plants & a lovely sub-tropical garden.

St. Michael's Mount

St. Michael’s Mount’s natural beauty is magnificent.

The island provides breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline & the adjacent waterways. You can wander along the beach or ascend to the island’s top for magnificent vista’s. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife. These include seals and dolphins in the nearby waters & gulls that nest on the island.

St. Michael’s Mount is a popular destination for families. Touring the castle, learning about the island’s history & playing on the beach are all activities that children will love. There are other activities on the island such as storytelling sessions, treasure hunts & a garden trail. There is something for everyone & the magic of St. Michael’s Mount will enchant visitors of all ages.

A trip to St. Michael’s Mount is an experience like no other. You can only cross the causeway to reach the island at specific times of the day. This is quite simply because access is tide-dependent. This gives your visit a sense of excitement & adventure & creates a totally unique experience. Be sure to check the tide times. Additionally, there are guided excursions offered that give visitors a deeper appreciation of the island’s rich past. They reveal details about the history & folklore of this unique island.

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Beautiful Places to Visit in Cornwall

The southwest of England in particular, has some amazing scenery, beaches, and quirky towns & villages. Here are a few of the best places to visit in Cornwall:

St. Ives is a lovely fishing town, that has long drawn artists from all over the world due to its stunning scenery & distinctive light in all seasons. Visitors can stroll through the cobblestone alleys, see the galleries and museums, or simply rest on one of its golden beaches.

Padstow is a fishing port on Cornwall’s north coast. It has become a popular holiday destination, in particular for foodies. It is home to Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant as well as a number of other restaurants that provide fresh seafood. Including the award winning Paul Ainsworth at Number 6.

Fowey is a beautiful village situated on the banks of the Fowey River. Visitors can walk along the shoreline, wander down the narrow alley ways dotted with charming shops & restaurants, or take a boat ride along the river & estuary.

Mousehole is a small historic fishing village located on the south coast of Cornwall. It’s famous for its pretty harbour, narrow streets, and traditional Cornish cottages. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the village’s restaurants or explore the numerous local art galleries.

Polperro is a traditional fishing village that is located on the south coast of Cornwall. It’s known for its narrow streets, whitewashed cottages, and colourful fishing boats. Visitors can explore the local shops, galleries & cafes. Taking a walk along the coastal path is also very popular.

Unique & Diverse

From north to south, east to west. Cornwall offers a wide variety of charming towns & villages that are full of character & history. Each of the destinations we have listed above offer something unique from the other. They are all well worth a visit, if you have the time in your holiday schedule.

places to visit in cornwall
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Amazing Farm Shops in Cornwall

Numerous farm shops in Cornwall sell a variety of fresh fruit, meat, dairy & other locally sourced goods. The very best of Cornish produce can be found here. It’s a great way for you to support south western farmers & food producers.

Here are just a few of the farm shops in Cornwall we recommend:

One of the most well-known farm stores in Cornwall is Trevaskis Farm, which is located in Hayle. The store sells a variety of locally sourced commodities, including fresh fruit, meats, dairy, baked foods and other items. Families in particular love the farm because it offers a pick-your-own fruit and vegetable operation.

The Cornish Food Box Company is based in Truro and provides a variety of products that are sourced locally. These include meats, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, baked goods, and much more. The store also provides a subscription service that delivers a box of fresh regional produce right to your doorstep.

Located in the town of Redruth. Etherington’s Farm Shop sells a variety of produce, including their renowned take on the ever popular Cornish pasty. As well as dairy produce, baked goods and other artisan products around from county. The farm shop also has a popular cafe & restaurant, where home cooked meals are served daily.

Lobbs Farm Shop, close to the market town of St Austell, sells a variety of locally sourced goods, including fresh meats and dairy products. The store also has an in-house bakery where a wide variety of handcrafted breads and pastries are created daily.

The Boscastle Farm Shop sells a variety of fresh produce, meats and dairy products. The on-site dining options at the shop include a cafe that sells fresh meals and pastries.

The Farm Shop at Tregothnan, near Truro, offers a range of locally sourced goods. Including meats, vegetables, fruits, dairy products. The shop is located on the Tregothnan Estate, which is home to one of the United Kingdom’s only tea plantations.

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How To Go Rockpooling

With summer holiday season approaching, many people visiting Cornwall often wonder how to go rockpooling safely. This fun & exciting outdoor activity can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Here is a quick guide to help you get started:

Choose the perfect spot – Rock lined beaches & rock pools that are visible at low tide are the ideal locations. Make sure to do some homework on the region you intend to visit. In order to determine whether it is safe to explore. Pay special attention to the tide times.

Wear the proper attire – To keep oneself protected and comfortable while rockpooling. It is necessary to wear suitable attire. Wear waterproof gear if possible, or a wetsuit, & sturdy shoes with good traction. Take a sun hat and sunscreen with you also. So you can protect yourself from the sun over a long period of time.

Take the right equipment – To make the most of your experience, you’ll need the right equipment. A net, bucket, and magnifying glass are essential. If possible also take a beach wildlife guide to help you identify the creatures you may find.

Respect the environment – When rockpooling, it is very important to respect the environment and the creatures that live there. Don’t remove any creatures from their natural habitat, and also be gentle when handling them. Remember to leave the rockpools as you found them!

Observe and identify – When exploring the rockpools, take your time and observe the creatures you find. Use your magnifying glass to get a closer look and try to identify them using your guide. Some common creatures you might find include crabs, starfish, anemones, & smaller fish.

Safety first – Always be aware of your surroundings & the tide. Be cautious of slippery rocks & be mindful of waves that may come in unexpectedly. Never turn your back to the sea & always keep an eye on the tide, so you don’t get stranded.

how to go rockpooling
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Basking Sharks

One of Cornwall’s most stunning marine creatures, basking sharks are a favourite attraction for both tourists and local residents due to their size and benign disposition. Only the whale shark is larger than these sharks, making them the second-largest fish species in the world.

Due to its diverse marine life and nutrient-rich waters, Cornwall’s shoreline is a perfect environment for basking sharks. This is due to the plankton blooms in the waters around the county. These sharks are known to congregate in great numbers during the summer months. In order to consume the plankton, basking sharks travel to Cornwall where they use their gill rakers to filter the water.

From April to October is the best time to see a basking shark in Cornish waters. Tourists swarm to Cornwall around this time to see these amazing animals. The distinctive dorsal fins of these fish are frequently observed sticking out of the water as they bathe. It is thought that they bask in the sun to control their body temperature. They get their name from this activity.

Despite their size and strength, basking sharks are renowned for their gentle demeanour. They are not hostile to people, in fact, they are rather an inquisitive fish and frequently approach boats to look them over. As a result, they are a sought-after subject for wildlife photographers, who can take beautiful close-up pictures of the sharks.

basking sharks

Endangered species.

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature now lists basking sharks as endangered despite their enormous size and popularity. They are particularly susceptible to overfishing since they reproduce slowly, making it difficult for their populations to swiftly repopulate. They can frequently get unintentionally entangled in fishing nets as well, which can result in harm or even death.

By bringing attention to the predicament of basking sharks and working with local fishermen to decrease unintentional bycatch. The Cornish Wildlife Trust is trying to safeguard them around Cornwall. The Trust uses a number of techniques, such as aerial surveys and acoustic tagging, to monitor basking shark populations. The trust is constantly striving to protect basking sharks in Cornwall.

By adhering to the rules for ethical wildlife viewing, visitors can also aid in the preservation of basking sharks. This involves keeping a safe distance from the sharks, avoiding loud noises or rapid movements, and not feeding or otherwise interfering with them. Respecting these rules will allow visitors to witness basking sharks in their natural environment, without endangering them.

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The Picturesque Mullion Cove

Mullion Cove is a picturesque fishing village located on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall. It is known as a stunning area of natural beauty with its rugged coastline and historical significance. Here are some of the reasons you should visit the Lizard area and in particular Mullion:

Mullion Cove is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty. With stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and its rugged coastline. The village of Mullion is surrounded by beautiful cliff walks, golden sandy beaches, and crystal-clear water. It makes a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic holiday. The Lizard Peninsula itself is home to a wide variety of wildlife. This includes seals, dolphins, and rare birds, such as peregrine falcons and choughs. The area around the cove is particularly rich in wildlife. You may even be lucky enough. like we were, to spot some of these animals during your visit.

Mullion has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation going right back to the Bronze Age. The village was once a busy fishing port during the 18th/19th centuries. Many of the buildings in the area are of historical significance. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your visit. These include: surfing, swimming, fishing, and hiking. The village is also home to a selection of excellent restaurants, cafes, and pubs, where you can enjoy delicious local food and or a drink or two.

Mullion Cove is a stunning historical area. It offers tourists the opportunity to see some of the best of Cornwall’s natural scenery. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, there is something for everyone.

Mullion Cove

Getting there:

From Helston take the A3083 south towards The Lizard. At the Mullion Holiday Park turn right onto the B3296 towards Mullion. Drive through the village and follow signs to Mullion Cove/Harbour. Note: Sat Nav: Use postcode TR12 7EP

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Padstow Christmas Festival

The Padstow Christmas Festival in Cornwall this year, runs from Thursday the 1st of December to Sunday 4th of December. After being postponed for the last few years due to Covid restrictions, it is back with a bang! There is a stellar line up of celebrity chefs scheduled to appear over the four days of the event. These chefs include some legendary British culinary icons. Such as Rick Stein, Nathan Outlaw, Angela Hartnett, Paul Ainsworth, Phil Vickery, Glynn Purnell, Micheal Caines and Brian Turner.

The celebrity chefs will be appearing alongside with some of the hottest up and coming talent in the food industry. Giving you some inspiration on how to serve up the perfect Christmas feast for your family and friends. From party foods to the main event, all bases are covered. You can find a full timetable and can also purchase tickets for the festival here.

Alongside the celebrity chef demonstrations there will be a great selection of food market stalls. All dotted around Padstow’s picture postcard harbour side location. Showcasing the very best of West Country produce. From artisan bread and pastries, to chocolates, cheese, preserves & pickles. There will also be some of the finest craft beer, cider, gin, rum, vodka and brandy producers in the region on display.

After a long day sampling the very best artisan produce Cornwall has to offer. Padstow is the perfect place to wind down and relax for the evening. There is a superb collection of bars and restaurants surrounding the harbour to suit all tastes. Check out our guide to eating out in Padstow to see what you might fancy. If you are staying in the area for for all four days, why not sample more than one?

For arts and crafts enthusiasts, there is also a late night shopping slot. Featuring a range of local community stalls and vendors from across the South West. This will start at 5pm on Friday 2nd December.

Padstow Christmas Festival