Things to Do in Cornwall

Cornwall sits at England's wild southwestern tip. Where granite cliffs drop straight into the Atlantic, this Celtic corner operates by different rules than the rest of Britain. Total chaos during summer. This region has its own language and cultural ties that run closer to Wales and Brittany than London. The rugged coastline hides countless coves and fishing villages that stay authentic despite summer crowds. Worth the effort. What makes Cornwall work is how it mixes working heritage with modern creativity—you'll find expected seaside towns with fish shops, but also excellent restaurants and some of Europe's best surf. The county reveals itself slowly. Those postcard villages are real, but the best experiences come from wandering off main routes.

Cornwall's food scene has moved beyond pasties and cream tea. Though both stay excellent when done right, the county now holds several Michelin stars around Padstow and St. Austell. Harbor towns offer freshest seafood. Look for places where fishing boats unload outside, while farm shops stock excellent picnic supplies—handy given how much time you'll spend outdoors.

May through September brings warmest weather and longest days—plus biggest crowds and highest prices. Late spring and early autumn hit the sweet spot. Decent weather with manageable tourist numbers makes these seasons ideal for most visitors. Winter visits work along the dramatic coastline. Many attractions cut hours and some seaside places close entirely, though weather stays milder than the rest of the UK year-round—sunshine, rain, and wind in the same afternoon happens.