Perched on the southwestern tip of England, Cornwall is a picturesque county known for its sandy beaches, soaring cliffs and seaside villages. In summer, the peninsula offers warm weather and plenty of bucket-and-spade fun. Visit in winter to beat the crowds and enjoy windswept beaches and an end-of-the-world atmosphere.

Things to do

From long stretches of sand to secluded coves, Cornwall boasts some of the best beaches in England. There are more than 300 to discover, many with Blue Flag status. Sugar-white sand, turquoise water and rugged cliffs make Porthcurno one of the most beautiful beaches in the county, while towns like Fistral and Bude lure in surfers with its rolling waves.

The south coast is known as the Cornish Riviera and is speckled with charming harbourside villages, such as Falmouth and Fowey. Stroll along cobbled streets lined with eclectic cafes and boutiques, then enjoy a promenade along the seafront. After dark, head to a local bar for an evening of toe-tapping Celtic music.

Flaky Cornish pasties and fluffy scones topped with generous dollops of jam and cream are just some of the culinary delights on offer in Cornwall. Farm-to-table restaurants spotlight local ingredients, while cosy pubs serve hearty Celtic classics.

Eight bubble-shaped domes rise up from the Eden Project and support one of the largest greenhouse ecosystems in the world. Get lost among lush greenery in the Rainforest Biome and marvel at prickly cacti, aromatic herbs and native Australian plants in the Mediterranean Biome.

The former Benedictine monastery of St Michael's Mount is one of the most iconic sights in Cornwall. Ferries whisk you across to the island, or you can retrace the footsteps of pilgrims and walk at low tide. Tintagel Castle is another Cornish landmark, famous as the birthplace of King Arthur and the seat of Celtic kings.

Getting around

Rental cars are a fast and easy way to explore Cornwall at your own pace. Many towns and villages are serviced by train stations with connections to London and local buses operate throughout Cornwall. Heathrow Airport is a 4.5-hour drive from Truro.