BEST PLACES TO GO IN CORNWALL IN 2024 – [FULL GUIDE]

Tintagel

If you’re looking for:

Exploration, Historic Ruins, Folklore, Caves, Dramatic Sea Views

Once you’re in Tintagel, you’ll be hit with charm and mystery! Perched up high on the clifftop, the ruins of Tintagel Castle transport you to the days of knights and kings, with dramatic views of crashing waves against the stunning coastline. During low-tide, wander through deep mystical caves along Haven Cove. This contrasts with quaint, sleepy villages with bed & breakfasts and cute diary farms. The natural beauty of Tintagel makes it one of the best places to go in Cornwall.

Things to Do in Tintagel

• Tintagel Haven Cove
  Perfect for a coastal walk or just relaxing and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Cornish coastline. It’s also directly next to Merlin’s cave and Tintagel Castle!
  
• Merlin’s Cave
  Explore this mystical cave beneath Tintagel Castle, associated with the wizard Merlin from Arthurian legend. There’s also other caves to discover across this cove, which we encourage to explore at low tide only – speaking from personal experience, where we ended up having to scramble back to the beach! Book your tickets in advance for discounts and offers.
  
• Tintagel Castle
  Breathtaking views, from the scenic walk across the high footbridge to the legendary site where Merlin is said to have stood. Renowned as one of the best places to visit in Cornwall.
  
• Ye Old Malthouse Inn
  After sightseeing, treat yourself to an ice-cold pint or bottle of Rattler.
  
• Tintagel Brewery
  Take a tour, sample some Cornish ales, and enjoy a meal at their restaurant with views of the surrounding countryside.
  
• Rocky Valley
  Ancient labyrinth carvings, picturesque waterfalls, and beautiful walking trails. This is considered an easy walk that takes around 30-40 minutes.

Shopping in Tintagel

• Willow Moon
  Witchcraft shop, selling incense, jewellery, candles, and homewares. Why not get your tarot cards read, too?
  
• Silverstone
  Specialises in crystals, fossils and jewellery – there are many crystal bracelets to choose from!
  
• Tintagel Artisan Confections
  Handmade chocolate, fudge, sweets and honeycomb & brittle. The perfect souvenir that’s extra special.
  
• Atique & Urchins Bears
  Stocks a huge collection of bears, including limited edition pieces from brands such as Charlie Bears Plush, Deb Canham, Kaycee Bears, TY.

Eat & Drink in Tintagel

• Pengenna Pasties
  Homemade pasties using family recipes, selling traditional steak, steak & stilton, lamb, vegetable, cheese & onion and vegan options.
  
• Charlie’s Cafe
  Deli-style food, serving breakfast and mains. Just reading the menu will get your mouth watering! Enjoy a ‘Cowboy Eggs Benedict’, waffles, a ‘honey roast ham, house pickles and mustard mayo’ sandwich, or a cream tea.
  
• King Arthur’s Cafe
  Breakfasts, salads, burgers, club sandwiches, and of course, cream teas!
  
• Ye Ole Malthouse
  Fancy a delicious pub lunch? Treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food with a contemporary twist. Small and large plates include slow cooked pork belly, fish and chips, vegan pulled brisket burgers and sour dough sandwiches. If it’s a Sunday, make sure you get a roast!
  
• The Village Tearooms
  Quaint tearoom offering homemade scones and cakes.

Where to Stay in Tintagel

There are plenty of Bed & Breakfasts and hotels starting from £45 per night (many are also pet-friendly if you’re bringing your dog). We recommend…

• Tintagel Arms Bed & Breakfast: From £80 per night.
  
• The Wootons Inn: From £80 per night.
  
• Camelot Castle Hotel: From £90 per night, increasing to £150 in peak season.
  
• Chandler’s Lodge B&B: Highly rated 5* bed & breakfast ranging between £80 per night.
  
  Groups & Special Occasions…
  
• Bossiney Cove Cottage: Entire apartment with a balcony / Sleeps 6 / Dog-friendly. As low as £100 per night.
  
• Mayfair AirBnb: Spacious, modern apartment / Sleeps 6 / Dog-friendly. From £146 per night.
  
• Excalibur, Castle View: Stylish apartment with stunning sea views / Sleeps 7 / Dog-friendly. From £236 per night.
  
  Campervans & Motorhomes…
  
• Bossiney Cove car park: Park overnight for £5 and enjoy the most breathtaking views of not only Tintagel coast, but also the cute cows just over the stone fence! There’s a pop-up shop on site, crazy golf and tea rooms, and quaint shops and cafe’s along Bossiney Road. This is one of the best places to stay in Cornwall when you’re doing van-life in Tintagel!

Polzeath

If you’re looking for:

Water Activities, Surf Culture, Strong Community, Carefree Vibes

There is something truly magical about Polzeath. It has a relaxed and carefree atmosphere, where the lifestyle is influenced by the beach and surfing activities. It’s an incredibly small village, and everything – from cafes, to shops, bars, campsites and the beach – is within a 5-10 minute walkable distance. You’ll see that the list reflects this, as there isn’t much on there! But trust – all you need is the beach.

If you love surfing or any form of watersports, this is the place to be. Polzeath has the choppiest waves we have ever seen in Cornwall. There’s street food, quirky cafe’s and plenty of high-quality surf gear and clothing available, all sold by people who are dedicated to surf culture. So if you do need a new wetsuit or a bodyboard, you’re covered. Polzeath (which, later we learned is actually pronounced “puhl-zeth”…) is for anyone who has a love for the outdoors and an easy-going approach to life.

Things to Do in Polzeath

• Surfing
  New to this? Get some excellent surf lessons through George’s Surf School
  
• Bodyboarding
  Available at TJs Surf Shop between £20-£50
  
• Start planning your move to Polzeath and join Polzeath Ladies Surf Club
  No, but seriously…

Shopping in Polzeath

It’s all about quality over quantity in Polzeath… While there aren’t many shops around, there is an excellent selection of high-quality clothing and surf gear, all within walking distance from the beach.

• Fusion
  Boutique clothing.
  
• Ann’s Cottage
  A trendy surf shop with high-quality surf gear.
  
• TJs Surf Shop
  Get the essentials or hire surf gear. It’s run by super friendly and knowledgeable surfers (and their cute dog). It has a dog-friendly cafe on the roof terrace above, with indoor/outdoor seating, very tasty food, and live music!

Eat & Drink in Polzeath

• Beach Box Cafe
  Grab a quick slice of pizza and a protein smoothie in between water activities!
  
• Flo’s Kitchen
  For Cornish pasties, loaded salads, and sweet baked goods.
  
• Vanilla
  Indulge in delicious ice creams with a huge variety of flavours.
  
• The Cracking Crab
  Fresh and delicious seafood.
  
• The Waterfront
  Hearty meals and stunning sea views.
  
• Surfside Polzeath
  Treat yourselves to a roast dinner and a cocktail with live music!

Where to Stay in Polzeath

• Hawk’s Nest Tiny Home: Prices start from £72 per night.
  
• Honeysuckle Hut: Prices start from £82 per night.
  
• Modern 4-bed apartment: Just a 5 minute walk from the beach!
  
  Groups & Special Occasions…
  
• St Moritz Hotel: Highly-rated hotel with swimming pool and stunning views from £165 per night.
  
• Sandpipers: Entire home starting at £500 per night.
  
  Affordable Stays…
  
• Nearby villages are just a 15-30 minute drive away, offering more affordable accommodations. Try Highermead House, with prices starting at £59 per night.
  
  Camping, Campervans & Caravans…
  
• Valley Caravan Park: Less than a 5 minute walk to the shops and Polzeath beach. This site allows tents and vehicles to stay overnight. It’s a beautiful spot surrounded by wildlife, such as ducks, geese, squirrels, rabbits and moorhens! (please note that dogs are not permitted on site due to this). There’s also a surf shop, a pub (if you fancy a game of pool), and well-maintained toilet/shower facilities on site, including a free (and hot) outdoor shower for wetsuits.
  
• Tristram Caravan Park: Touring park only. Dogs are allowed, but please check the website for further information.
  
• Southwinds Camping: Tents allowed / dogs allowed / free modern shower blocks.

Perranporth

If you’re looking for:

Relaxation, Sandy Beaches, Surfing, Charm

Perranporth has a magnificent three-mile stretch of golden sand, which is perfect for sunbathing and surfing. Experience beachfront cafes, beach bars, and stunning coastal walks. Perranporth is perfect for those who want a well-rounded Cornwall experience that has a mix of relaxation, watersports, tourist hot spots, and hidden gems.

Things to Do in Perranporth

• Surfing at Perranporth Beach
  Become a pro after lessons with Stoked Surf School
  
• Snorkeling
  Get Decathlon’s SUBEA Adult Easybreath Dive Mask which allows you to freedive at a depth of 3 metres! We’d also suggest the Kids’ Easybreath Surface Mask (for children aged 6-10 years).
  
• Chapel Rock Tidal Pool
  A natural seawater pool located at the base of Chapel Rock, a prominent rock formation on Perranporth Beach. The pool fills with seawater during high tide, creating a safe spot for swimming and splashing around with stunning views of the coastline.
  
• The Droskyn Sundial
  Installed to commemorate the turn of the millennium, this giant circular sundial is functional and created from local stone. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the beach and coastline while learning about the sundial’s design and significance.

Shopping in Perranporth

• Noize
  Tie dye clothing, colourful kimonos, and musical instruments
  
• Sama Sama
  Ethically sourced giftware selling funky dreamcatchers, incense, Tiki masks and hand-painted wooden signs!
  
• Bathsheba Surf
  High-quality surf gear. Need help with wetsuit sizing? Read their free guide here.

Eat & Drink in Perranporth

• The Watering Hole
  Grab a cocktail at the UK’s one and only beach bar.
  
• The Summerhouse
  Enjoy mezze-style food with a sea view.
  
• Tywarnhayle Inn
  Pub grub, Rattler cider and live music!

Where to Stay in Perranporth

• Sandbay Holiday Flats
  
• The Sieners Arms
  
• OYO Minerva Guesthouse: Stay from £85 per night.
  
  For Groups & Special Occasions…
  
• Curlews Cottage: 3 bedroom house that’s walking distance from Perranporth beach. From £160 per night.
  
  Affordable Stays…
  
• Berties Lodge: From £44 per night.
  
• Oceanside Lifestyle Hotel: Starting at £60 per night.
  
• The Beresford Hotel: From £63 per night.
  
  For Camping, Campervans & Caravans…
  
• Perranporth Holiday Park: Stay in a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom modern mobile home
  
• Saddle Rock Farm: This beautiful private campsite offers a peaceful setting in a rural location for just £5 per night! Tents & campervans permitted / Dog-friendly / Toilets, showers and washing facilities on-site.

St Ives

If you’re looking for:

Tropical-style Beaches, Paddleboarding, Sealife, Bustling Atmosphere

St Ives is idyllic! It’s a stunning coastal town known for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant atmosphere. With crystal-clear, turquoise waters, it’s an absolute paradise for beach lovers. The town is polished and sophisticated, offering upscale restaurants and hotels that cater to those seeking a luxurious getaway. Its bustling harbour area features a mix of charming cafes, quirky shops, pubs, and traditional bakeries serving giant Cornish pasties! St Ives offers the full Cornwall experience, making it onto the list of one of the best places to go in Cornwall.

Things to Do in St Ives

• Explore breathtaking beaches
  Spend the day at Carbis Bay or Porthmeor Beach, where crystal-clear waters teem with marine life. Bask in the sunshine with an iced coffee, and enjoy the calmer waters – perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
  
• Paddleboarding
  Carbis Bay is the best place to paddleboard in Cornwall due to it’s really calm waters. We rented paddleboards from Ocean Sports Centre for 1 hour at just £10 per board – so cheap! They also offer inexpensive guided tours along the coast, where you can see grey seals and sunfish, and the occasional dolphin and basking shark!
  
• Visit Tate St Ives
  Discover contemporary art inspired by the town’s stunning scenery.
  
• St Ives Harbour
  Take a stroll around the bustling harbour, watching the boats come and go while enjoying the lively atmosphere. You might even see another basking shark, if you’re lucky…
  
• Seal-Watching
  You can find operators along the harbour offering boat tours from St Ives to Seal Island. These trips typically last around an hour and provide an opportunity to observe the seals from the water. For an incredible experience, go with either Coast Boat Trips or Nemo for a glass-bottom boat trip!
  
  If you’d rather save the money, you’re highly likely to see them from the coast path – Park at Godrevy Car Park and walk along the coast towards Mutton Cove. The best time to see the seals is usually during low tide when they haul out onto the rocks to rest, but they can also be spotted bobbing around in the water at high tide!
  
• Coastal Walks
  Hike along the South West Coast Path for breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline.
  
• Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden
  Experience the works of one of St Ives’ most famous artists.
  
• St Nicholas Chapel
  A tiny 14th Century medieval chapel, originally used by local fishermen and their families to attend service. It’s easily accessible – just walk past the harbour and up to the coastal path towards the lighthouse and you can’t miss it!
  
• Harbour Amusements
  Old school, family run arcade located right on the harbour.
  
• Roller’s Roller Rink
  Want a good laugh? Or is it torrential rain in Cornwall and you have absolutely no idea what to do with the time?! Be transported to the 80s, and try rollerskating in Hayle, just 25 minutes from St Ives. If it’s your first time or it’s been a couple of decades, you might start off a bit like Bambi on ice. But with a 4-hour session, there’s plenty of time to get the hang of it.
  
  We went on a Friday evening and it was quiet, which made the experience even better. The place has a charming, unintentional 80’s high school prom vibe, complete with colorful lighting, vintage decor, and retro arcades. It costs around £15, and you might even be tempted to buy a pair of their beautiful skates afterward!

Shopping in St Ives

• The Painted Bird
  Browse a curated selection of handmade crafts, homeware, and gifts.
  
• EmJems
  Handmade boho jewellery by EmJems.
  
• Lilac & Lime
  Selling quirky brands such as Run & Fly, Bomb Cosmetics, Prickle People and Refresh footwear.
  
• Atlantic Shore
  British Wool Knitwear – Clothing, rugs, hats, slippers, blankets and more.
  
• Freedom to Explore
  Huge selection of ethical and sustainable outdoor clothing and equipment.
  
• I Should Coco
  Handmade chocolate gifts – creamy truffles, artistic slabs, ‘choc-o-grams’ and more…
  
• St Ives Ceramics
  Explore beautiful, locally-made pottery and ceramics.

Eat & Drink in St Ives

• Harbour View House
  Park at Porthminster Car Park and start the day with a filling breakfast and refreshing smoothie.
  
• Sea of Coffee
  Located on the High Street, take a break from the noise and enjoy a delicious cream tea.
  
• Balcony Bar & Kitchen
  Breakfast, comfort-food, and live music with a view of the harbour
  
• The Loft Restaurant & Sun Terrace
  Overlooking the rooftops and harbour, indulge in locally sourced food and fine dining.
  
• Carbis Bay Deli
   Sun-soaked Mediterranean food on the beach. Enjoy locally sourced crab, fresh fish, steaks, and handmade pizzas.
  
• West Greek
  Greek cuisine on Porthmeor beach – fresh olives, gyros, grilled platters, slouvaki…
  
• Bre Cafe
  Grab brunch at this boho-style cafe serving high-quality, wholesome food, such as power smoothies, poke bowls, top-tier breakfasts and sweet pastries.
  
• Olive’s Cafe
  Treat yourself to a sandwich or cream tea in this charming cottage cafe.

Where to Stay in St Ives

• Saltwater B&B: Stay from £105 per night.
• Green Apple B&B: Near Carbis Bay. From £83 per night.
  
  Groups & Special Occasions…
  
• Harbour View House: Located just a 5 minute walk from Porthminster Car Park, enjoy breakfast and coffee first thing in the morning. Prices start from £210 per night.
  
• Tregenna Castle Resort: Stay at this family-friendly 17th Century castle. With options on hotel stay or self-catering from just £86 per night.
  
• Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate: Luxurious 5* beachfront hotel & spa with stunning views. Stay from £256 per night. Looking for the perfect gift? Treat someone special to the perfect spa day.
  
  Affordable Stays…
  
• St Ives Bay Hotel: From as little as £60 per night. Pets allowed on request (chargable).
  
• The St Ives Harbour Hotel: Elegant accommodation overlooking the harbour, offering spa services and fine dining.
  
• Primrose Valley Hotel: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.
  
• The Gannet Inn: Just outside St Ives, this charming inn offers a more affordable option with easy access to the town.
  
• Tregenna Castle Resort: A family-friendly option with extensive grounds, located a short walk from the town center.
  
  For Camping, Campervans & Caravans…
  
• The Engine Inn: 17th Century pub surrounded by beautiful countryside. Park overnight for free (when you buy a drink) in a campervan or motorhome. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in a room from £95 per night.
  
• Glew Mine: 17th Century mine landmark with a small car park and incredible views.
  
• Beersheba Farm: Glamping ‘landpods’ from £100 per night. Outdoor washing facilities / dog-friendly pitches / electric bike hire / pony treks.
  
• Mount Douglas Campsite: Small farm in Carbis Bay, with a 20 minute walk from the beach. Basic facilities, such as toilets and showers / dog-friendly.
  
• Lower Penderleaf Campsite: Campsite and hostel surrounded by lush, green farm fields. Basic washing facilities / Adults £15.00 per night (each) & Children £7.50 per night (each) / dogs not permitted.

Penzance

If you’re looking for:

Craggy Coves, Coastal Walks, Breathtaking Sea Views, Countryside, Relaxation

Penzance is located on the southwestern coast. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed vibe, stunning sea views, historic sites, and lush countryside. With plenty of farms, if you’re going camping, Penzance is the best place for it! Explore the rugged coastline and incredible landmarks like Land’s End.

Things to Do in Penzance

• Walk to Nanjizal Bay
  If you’re visiting Penzance, Nanjizal Bay is a must! This hidden gem is only accessible by foot and takes around 20 minutes to get to. Wonder through the winding paths surrounded by greenery and butterflies, until it reveals the breathtaking view of the sea, leading you down into the cove.
  
• Relax at Senen Cove
  Visit this beautiful sandy beach, popular for surfing and swimming. The area is renowned for its stunning views, clear waters, and a laid-back vibe, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea.
  
• Swim in the Jubilee Pool
  Take a dip in Jubilee Pool, a large, outdoor, seawater swimming pool with stunning views of the ocean and St Michael’s Mount!
  
• Explore St Michael’s Mount
  A stunning medieval castle situated on a tiny island. Wander around old buildings, subtropical gardens, and panoramic views of Penzance.
  
• Surf at Pedn Vounder Beach Visit Logan Rock
  If you’re interested in surfing, visit this secluded beach that’s perfect for it. Perched up 30 meters above sits a 65-ton, naturally balanced boulder! While exploring the craggy rocks, watch as wild horses graze nearby.
  
• Penzance Harbour
  Visit the heart of the town, which is bustling in comparison to other areas of Penzance. Enjoy fresh seafood and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
  
• Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens
  Experience a combination of art and nature within a lush, sub-tropical landscape. The gardens have impressive sculptures by renowned artists, stunning views of St Michael’s Mount, and tranquil walking paths.
  
• Reach the tip of Land’s End
  This is one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks which is a must when visiting Penzance. Stand on the very edge for absolutely stunning panoramic views of the coast. It’s also quite possible that you’ll come across some seals!
  
• Visit The Minack Theatre
  An iconic open-air theatre carved into the clifftop. When do you ever get the chance to watch a play or concert as the sun sets over the sparkling sea, with the sound of waves crashing against the rocks below?!
  
• Take a Boat Trip
  Take a guided tour of the coast, visit hidden coves, and spot seals and dolphins. Coast Boat Trips offers a variety of boat trips in Penzance, ranging between £30 – £75 per person.
  
• Mine Exploration & Absailing with Cornwall Underground
  Navigate the winding passageways of 19th-century mines, uncovering the history of Cornwall’s rich mining heritage. There’s three types of activities – Explorer (medium), Adventurer (medium-hard), and Adventurer Extreme (hard).
  
• Try Coasteering
  Scramble over rocks and find jump spots in the sea! Group Coasteering Adventures offers a guided 2-3 session for £45 per person.
  
• Morrab Gardens
  Exotic plants, winding paths, and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy relaxing activities.
  
• Newlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange
  Located in the vibrant fishing town of Newlyn, these twin galleries showcase contemporary art from local and international artists.
  
• Penlee House Gallery & Museum
  A cultural gem in Penzance, celebrating the art and history of Cornwall. Renowned for its collection of works by the Newlyn School of artists.

Shopping in Penzance

Penzance is filled with dairy farms and landmarks, where you can enjoy peaceful countryside and interesting history. If you’re looking for a vibrant area with plenty of shops, we’d recommend going into the centre of Penzance.

• Greeb Cottage & Craft Workshop
  Pop by Greeb Cottage, where you can buy handmade, bespoke jewellery. Tucked away on a farm, this little spot is perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind piece to take home.
  
• Harbour Crystals & Wools
  A cozy little shop filled with colorful wools and shimmering crystals.
  
• Lilac & Lime Penzance
  Selling quirky brands such as Run & Fly, Bomb Cosmetics, Prickle People and Refresh footwear.
  
• Wharfside Shopping Centre
  For a bit of everything, head to Wharfside Shopping Centre. With a mix of well-known brands and local shops, it’s a great spot to shop.
  
• Happy Dais Vintage
  If you’re into retro clothing, Happy Dais Vintage is a must-visit. This quirky shop is packed with rare finds, clothing, accessories, and homewares.

Eat & Drink in Penzance

• Farm + Fort
  Located by Treen Farm, this cafe is great for fresh, wholesome bites. They serve delicious deli food, power bowls packed with nutrients, and perfectly roasted coffee.
  
• The Quirky Bird Cafe
  Enjoy creative dishes, from hearty breakfasts to light lunches.
  
• The Honey Pot
  For those with a sweet tooth or a love for homemade comfort food, The Honey Pot is a little slice of heaven. Offering a mix of hearty soups, sandwiches, and indulgent cakes, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cozy meal.
  
• Cafe Dog & Rabbit
  Freshly baked goods, artisan coffee, and a variety of light meals perfect for a casual bite.
  
• Archie Browns
  Food that makes you feel good! Vibrant vegetarian and vegan dishes that are nutritious and delicious.
  
• Roundhouse
  Locally sourced and beautifully presented dishes, served in a charming, rustic setting.
  
• Sennen Cove Cafe
  Right by the beach, Sennen Cove Cafe is the perfect spot for a meal with a view. Enjoy fresh seafood, light bites, and homemade cakes.
  
• Land’s End Coffee
  Great coffee and even better views. Pair it with tasty pastries and light snacks, and enjoy the stunning scenery at one of Cornwall’s most iconic locations.

Where to Stay in Penzance

• Treen Farm: A working dairy farm on the coast. It’s an ideal spot for camping or staying in charming cottages, providing a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions like the Minack Theatre and Porthcurno Beach. Prices on request.
  
• Chy-an-Mor: Bed & Breakfast with a sea view. From £75 per night.
  
• Keigwin Guesthouse: From £110 per night.
  
  Groups & Special Occasions…
  
• Blue Seas Hotel: Between £110 – £160 per night.
  
• Higher Faugan: Private guest House offering rooms or suites, overlooking St Micheal’s Mount.
  
• The Marazion Hotel: A 17th Century coaching inn, overlooking St. Michael’s Mount.
  
  Affordable Stays…
  
• YHA Penzance: Laid-back hostel in a Georgian property, plus a cafe/bar, a game room, a kitchen & a campsite. From £80 per night for private rooms, or £35 for a shared room.
  
• The Pendennis: From £65 – £150 per night.
  
  Camping, Campervans & Caravans…
  
• Treen Farm Campsite: Diary farm campsite with sea views / Standard facilities / Dog-friendly.
  
• YHA Penzance: Landpods, camping and bell tents.
  
• Parknoweth Farm: Pitches from £8 / Sea views / Standard facilities / Dog-friendly / Camping & Glamping available.
  
• Trevedra Farm: From £9.50 per adult / Cafe on site / Premium Facilities / Dog-friendly.
  
• Dropped Anchor: Camping with a sea view / Standard Facilities / Dog-Friendly. Costs vary between £13 – £21 per night. Glamping available.

Lizard Peninsula

If you’re looking for:

Hidden Gems, Rugged Coastlines, Natural Beauty, Breathtaking Coastal Views, Stargazing

We’ve combined a couple of places into The Lizard Peninsula because there’s so much going on in this area and the villages are so close together!It’s laid-back and welcoming, with sleepy fishing villages, unspoiled beaches, and picturesque clifftops. Whether you’re exploring the countryside, lounging on a hidden beach, or visiting historical sites, the Lizard Peninsula offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle.

Things to Do in Lizard

• Kynance Cove
  If you’re going to Lizard, you must see Kynance Cove. This is a hidden gem, with turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations that span across the beach. It’s a rare and beautiful experience to be able to walk between so many untouched cliffs, coves and waterfalls while on a beach, and feels almost like urban exploration.
  
• Water Activites with Lizard Adventure
  Coasteering, Kayaking, Climbing, Paddleboarding and SUP Yoga.
  
• Lizard Point
  Stand on the southernmost tip of Britain and enjoy breathtaking views, wildlife, and a visit to Lizard Lighthouse.
  
• Visit Helston
  Discover the historic market town of Helston, known for its annual Flora Day celebration and the fascinating Museum of Cornish Life.
  
• Cornish Seal Sanctuary
  The sanctuary is a haven for injured, sick, and orphaned seals, where they receive care and rehabilitation before being released back into the wild. By visiting, you’re also supporting vital conservation work and helping to protect these amazing creatures!
  
• Pollurian Beach
  An untouched stretch of beach, perfect for bodyboarding and surfing!
  
• Mullion Cove
  Wander around this sleepy fishing harbor, explore the surrounding coastal paths, or try freshwater fishing or kayaking. This is also the perfect place for stargazing because there’s hardly any light pollution here. You’ll feel as though you’re immersed in a galaxy, with a net of stars draped across the sky. This was an otherworldly experience that left us in awe of the universe’s beauty.
  
• Dollar Cove
  A peaceful escape, far from the hustle and bustle of busier beaches. It’s the perfect place to unwind, listen to the waves crash against the rocks, and soak in the stunning coastal views. It’s been given it’s name ‘Dollar Cove’ for the silver dollars believed to have been lost in a 17th-century shipwreck.

Shopping in Lizard

• Mungo Lils on The Hill
  Browse a curated selection of handmade, coastal-inspired homeware, and gifts, sourced across the UK.
  
• Treleague Dairy
  Farm shop selling fresh milk, cream, butter, eggs, locally sourced chutney, meat and fish.
  
• Costal Path Jewellery
  Beautiful handmade beaded pendants and bracelets.
  
• Twisted Lizard
  Selling handmade giftware locally sourced by crafters.

Eat & Drink in Lizard

• Slice of Cornwall
  Mouthwatering comfort food… The photos speak for themselves!
  
• Smugglers
  Located in the heart of Lizard, enjoy fish & chips overlooking the coast.
  
• Ann’s Pasties
  Delicious and artistic homemade steak, cheese or vegan pasties!
  
• Ellie’s Soul Kitchen
  Vegan Mediterranean-style street food.
  
• Lizard Shellfish
  Wholesome seafood offering crab cakes, lobster sandwiches, and loaded fries.
  
• Coast Coffee Bar & Bistro
  Serving the classics, such as delicious salads, juicy burgers, and fish & chips.
  
• Kynance Cove Cafe
  Freshly made sandwiches and baguettes, salads, jacket potatoes, pasties, burgers, smoothies, milkshakes and more!

Where to Stay in Lizard

• The Top House Inn: Stay in the heart of Lizard from £92 per night.
  
• Cadgwith Cove Inn: From £66 per night, or £110 in peak season.
  
  Groups & Special Occasions…
  
• Penmenner House: A homely bed & breakfast with a sea view. Prices on request.
  
• Rocket Cart House: Contemporary, rustic, boho tiny home, complete with log burner from £250 per night.
  
• Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat: Stay in a 2 bedroom lodge from £170 per night.
  
• Mullion Cove Hotel Cornwall: Luxury hotel & spa for £240 per night.
  
  Camping, Campervans & Caravans…
  
• Mullion Cove Car Park: If you’re camping or travelling in a campervan, stay overnight by Mullion’s harbour for £5. It’s a spacious car park, so finding a spot is never an issue. Bare in mind that there are no facilities on site! Across the way, you’ll see sheep grazing in the field. Enjoy the sound of the stream flowing behind you, along with by the chirping of crickets. And don’t forget to stargaze – you’ll be amazed.
  
• Henry’s Campsite: Boho-style campsite with standard facilities / Dog-friendly.
  
• Kynance Camping: Modern campsite with standard facilities / Dog-friendly.