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United Kingdom
Cornwall Coastal Treasures: Castles, Coves and Celtic Heritage
≈ 11
Days
198
Km
11
Stops
Your day-by-day itinerary
1
Day
8 photos
Discover
1
Explore the wild expanses of Bodmin Moor, a vast inland moorland of granite outcrops and barren pastures that stands apart from Cornwall's famous coastline. This ancient landscape is recognized as one of the finest locations in Europe for Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments, with stone circles, standing stones and burial chambers scattered across the heather-covered hills. The mysterious King Arthur's Hall, a megalithic ceremonial site, is among the most famous prehistoric remains.
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Discover the fascinating geological history of this wild place, where weathered tors rise from the moorland like sentinels from another age. The landscape has inspired legends and folklore for millennia, from tales of the Beast of Bodmin to Arthurian mythology. Walking trails crisscross the moor, offering solitude and dramatic scenery far removed from the coastal crowds.
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Hike to Brown Willy, the highest point in Cornwall, for panoramic views across the moorland
Next stop
Distance:
15 km
Travel time:
20min
2
Day
4 photos
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1
Marvel at the Eden Project, one of Cornwall's most innovative attractions, where enormous biodome structures house botanical gardens showcasing plant species from around the world. Since opening in 2001, this futuristic complex has captivated visitors with its striking exhibitions, interactive experiences and passionate commitment to environmental education. The massive biomes, built in a reclaimed clay pit, create tropical rainforest and Mediterranean climates under their transparent canopies.
2
Explore St Austell, an old market town that played an essential role in Cornwall's mining and China Clay industries that once made this region prosperous. Reminders of the town's historic importance can still be spotted throughout the streets, including the bygone Cornwall Coliseum. The St Austell Brewing Company offers tours and tastings of traditional Cornish ales brewed using centuries-old methods.
3
Wander through the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a hidden gem covering more than 200 acres of restored Victorian gardens and woodlands near Mevagissey. Suspended bridges, moss-covered statues and jungle-like plantings create an atmosphere of rediscovered wonder in these gardens that lay abandoned and overgrown for decades until their restoration began in the 1990s. The story of the gardens' neglect during World War I and subsequent rescue adds poignant historical depth to their natural beauty.
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Spend a half-day exploring the Eden Project's biomes and outdoor gardens
Next stop
Distance:
8 km
Travel time:
15min
3
Day
3 photos
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1
Discover Mevagissey, the postcard-perfect Cornish fishing village where colorful cottages and working boats crowd around a picturesque double harbor. This authentic fishing community has retained its traditional character while offering excellent opportunities to enjoy the freshest seafood in charming waterfront settings. The narrow lanes climbing up from the harbor reveal independent shops, galleries and glimpses of the fishing heritage that has sustained this village for centuries.
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Stroll along the harbor walls watching fishermen land their catch and preparing boats for the next tide, a scene that has changed little over generations. The village's sheltered position and thriving fishing fleet made it a prosperous community, and the handsome merchants' houses climbing the hillside reflect this maritime wealth. Local boat trips offer the chance to explore the coastline from the water and spot the marine wildlife that thrives in these clear Cornish waters.
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Sample fresh Cornish seafood in one of the harbor-side establishments overlooking the fishing boats
Next stop
Distance:
25 km
Travel time:
35min
4
Day
4 photos
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1
Explore Truro, Cornwall's only city, where the magnificent Victorian cathedral with its unusual three spires towers above the historic streets. While urban amenities and cultural offerings exceed those found elsewhere in the region, Truro maintains a distinctly laid-back Cornish character with its independent shops, cafes and the vibrant Lemon Street Market. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area while offering more significant cultural attractions.
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Visit the Royal Cornwall Museum to discover the fascinating history of this unique region, from prehistoric times through the tin mining era to the present day. The museum's collections illuminate the distinctive Cornish culture and the Celtic language that sets this peninsula apart from the rest of England. Exhibitions explore the mining heritage that brought prosperity and shaped the landscape, now recognized with UNESCO World Heritage status.
3
Admire the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece completed in 1910 that ranks among the finest 19th-century churches in England. The three soaring spires create an unmistakable silhouette above the city, while the interior features beautiful stained glass and impressive stone vaulting. The cathedral's relatively recent construction makes it unusual among England's great churches, most of which date from medieval times.
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Browse the Hall for Cornwall's performance schedule for evening entertainment options
Next stop
Distance:
25 km
Travel time:
35min
5
Day
4 photos
Discover
1
Discover the Lizard Peninsula, one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in all of England and a personal favorite for many visitors to Cornwall. Thanks to limited road access and minimal development, this southernmost point of mainland Britain retains an unspoiled character and get-away-from-it-all atmosphere that feels increasingly rare. The peninsula's serpentine rock creates distinctive green and red coloring in the cliffs and has been worked by local craftspeople for centuries.
2
Visit the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, where injured and orphaned seals receive treatment and rehabilitation before being released back into the wild. Unlike typical zoo attractions, this facility focuses primarily on rescue and recovery, giving visitors the opportunity to see these charismatic marine mammals while supporting important conservation work. The sanctuary offers insight into the challenges facing Cornwall's seal population and the dedicated efforts to protect them.
3
Explore the idyllic fishing villages of Coverack and Cadgwith, where thatched cottages cluster around tiny harbors that have changed little over generations. These authentic communities offer perfect spots to enjoy fish and chips while watching the fishing boats come and go. The dramatic coastal scenery surrounding these villages, with towering cliffs and hidden coves, rewards those who venture off the main tourist routes.
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Marvel at Kynance Cove, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall with its turquoise waters, white sand and dramatic serpentine rock formations. This stunning cove, owned by the National Trust, offers excellent swimming when conditions allow and spectacular photography opportunities year-round. The unique geology creates islands and caves that are revealed at low tide, adding an element of exploration to any visit.
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Walk the South West Coast Path along the Lizard's dramatic clifftops with views toward Lizard Point
Next stop
Distance:
20 km
Travel time:
30min
6
Day
4 photos
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1
Cross the ancient causeway to St Michael's Mount, Cornwall's own version of France's famous Mont Saint-Michel and one of the most iconic landmarks in England. This tidal island, crowned by a medieval castle and church, has been a site of pilgrimage since Benedictine monks constructed the first church here in 1135. The causeway connecting the island to the mainland at Marazion becomes submerged at high tide, adding an element of adventure to every visit.
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Explore the castle atop St Michael's Mount, which evolved from a monastery into a fortress and now serves as a family home while welcoming visitors to its historic rooms and magnificent gardens. The views from the island across Mount's Bay to the Cornish coast are spectacular, encompassing miles of golden beaches and dramatic headlands. The subtropical gardens, clinging to the rocky slopes, feature exotic plants that thrive in the mild Cornish climate.
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Stroll through Marazion, the charming mainland town that serves as the gateway to St Michael's Mount and offers excellent views of the island from its beaches and promenade. This historic settlement claims to be one of the oldest chartered towns in Britain, with a history stretching back to the Bronze Age. The traditional pubs and independent shops provide a pleasant base for exploring this corner of Cornwall.
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Time your visit to cross the causeway on foot at low tide for the full pilgrimage experience
Next stop
Distance:
15 km
Travel time:
25min
7
Day
4 photos
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1
Journey to Land's End, the most westerly point of mainland England, where dramatic cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean and the views extend to the Isles of Scilly on clear days. This legendary location has captivated visitors since ancient times; even the Greeks knew this place, naming it 'Belerion' meaning 'place of the sun.' The famous signpost marking distances to faraway destinations has become an iconic photo opportunity for visitors from around the world.
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Experience the Minack Theatre, one of the most unique and spectacular performance venues in the world, carved into the clifftop overlooking Porthcurno Bay. Nearly 100 years ago, Rowena Cade began chiseling this remarkable amphitheatre out of the granite cliff face, creating an open-air stage with the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop. Even when no performances are scheduled, visiting the theatre to admire its ingenious design and magnificent setting is worthwhile.
3
Explore the golden sands of Porthcurno Beach, consistently rated among the finest beaches in the UK, where turquoise waters lap against dramatic cliffs. The beach's sheltered position and crystal-clear waters make it popular for swimming, while the surrounding cliffs offer excellent walking. The nearby Telegraph Museum tells the fascinating story of the undersea cables that once connected Britain to the world from this remote Cornish cove.
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Catch an evening performance at the Minack Theatre for an unforgettable cultural experience
Next stop
Distance:
15 km
Travel time:
25min
8
Day
8 photos
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Discover St Ives, perhaps the most beloved destination in Cornwall, where expansive golden beaches stretch beneath a picturesque town of cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages. For centuries, this fishing village has attracted visitors drawn by its exceptional light, beautiful beaches and artistic heritage. The combination of seaside charm, cultural attractions and natural beauty makes St Ives irresistible to first-time visitors and returning devotees alike.
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Visit Tate St Ives, the modern art gallery that showcases works by artists who have been inspired by Cornwall's extraordinary light and landscape since the 1920s. The gallery's striking architecture, perched above Porthmeor Beach, provides the perfect setting for collections that include works by Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson and other luminaries of the St Ives School. The views from the gallery windows compete with the art on the walls for visitors' attention.
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Explore the winding cobbled streets connecting cute corners, seaside pubs and traditional pasty shops that give St Ives its irresistible character. The harbor, still home to a working fishing fleet, provides a picturesque heart to the town, while the beaches on either side offer different characters for swimming, surfing or simply sunbathing. Boat trips depart regularly to spot dolphins or see the iconic Godrevy Lighthouse up close.
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Relax on the beautiful beaches of St Ives, which are particularly impressive at low tide when vast expanses of golden sand are revealed. Porthmeor Beach attracts surfers and art lovers drawn to the nearby Tate, while the sheltered Harbour Beach offers calmer waters for families. The town's position on a narrow peninsula means you're never far from the sound of the waves, wherever you wander.
Activities
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Take a boat trip from the harbor to spot dolphins and see Godrevy Lighthouse, inspiration for Virginia Woolf's novel
Next stop
Distance:
25 km
Travel time:
35min
9
Day
6 photos
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1
Ride the waves at Newquay, England's undisputed surf capital, where Atlantic swells create some of the best surfing conditions in Britain. Whether you're an experienced surfer or complete beginner, numerous surf schools and board rental shops cater to all abilities on the town's many beaches. The surf culture has shaped Newquay's laid-back character and vibrant nightlife, making it a favorite destination for active visitors.
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Explore the dramatic coastline around Newquay, where low-slung cliffs and hidden coves create perfect conditions for coasteering adventures combining climbing, jumping and swimming. Fistral Beach, consistently ranked among the best surf beaches in Europe, hosts international competitions that draw the world's top surfers. The surrounding headlands offer spectacular walking with views along the coast in both directions.
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Discover the family-friendly attractions around Newquay, including the excellent zoo and several National Trust manor houses set in the rolling countryside slightly inland. As one of the larger towns in Cornwall, Newquay offers a wider range of accommodation, restaurants and entertainment than smaller coastal villages. The permanent population of 20,000 can multiply five times during peak summer season, a testament to the town's enduring popularity.
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Book a surf lesson on Fistral Beach to experience the thrill of riding Cornish waves
Next stop
Distance:
35 km
Travel time:
45min
10
Day
4 photos
Discover
1
Fall in love with Port Isaac, a quintessential Cornish fishing village snuggled around a tiny harbor in North Cornwall. A cluster of whitewashed and slate-fronted cottages tumble down steep lanes to the pocket-sized beach where colorful fishing boats bob at their moorings. The village's protected harbor has preserved its historic character, even as the fishing industry that built it has declined, creating one of the most photogenic destinations in Cornwall.
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Explore Port Isaac's narrow lanes and atmospheric corners that have featured in numerous film and television productions, including the popular Doc Martin series. The village's history is intimately tied to fishing, an industry that peaked here in the early 19th century when pilchards were exported across Europe. Today, traditional fishing continues alongside a thriving tourism industry, with crab and lobster pots stacked on the quay.
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Walk the spectacular stretch of the South West Coast Path connecting Port Isaac to Tintagel, a 10-mile route that takes in dramatic rock formations and lesser-visited beaches. This section of Cornwall's coastline is particularly spectacular in spring when wildflowers carpet the clifftops, adding splashes of color to the green headlands. The walking offers constantly changing perspectives on the rugged North Cornwall coast.
Activities
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Watch for the Fisherman's Friends, the local sea shanty group who sometimes perform on the harbor's Platt
Next stop
Distance:
15 km
Travel time:
25min
11
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Stand among the legendary ruins of Tintagel Castle, perched dramatically on a rugged headland with cliffs plunging to the Atlantic on three sides. While not much remains of the medieval castle itself, the association with King Arthur and the dramatic new footbridge spanning a deep chasm between two impossibly steep cliffs make this one of Cornwall's most unforgettable attractions. The legends claim this as Arthur's birthplace, and the atmosphere of myth and mystery pervades every stone.
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Cross the spectacular footbridge that links the mainland to the island portion of Tintagel Castle, a modern engineering marvel that recreates an ancient connection severed by centuries of erosion. The vertiginous walkway offers heart-stopping views down to the waves crashing on rocks far below. Archaeological excavations have revealed that this site was an important settlement during the Dark Ages, lending some historical basis to the Arthurian legends.
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Explore Merlin's Cave beneath the castle headland, accessible at low tide via a dramatic sea cave that cuts completely through the promontory. Legend holds that the wizard Merlin lived in this cave and that it was here he first met the infant Arthur. The combination of dramatic natural features and powerful mythology makes Tintagel one of the most evocative historic sites in Britain, drawing visitors who seek both history and legend.
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Book castle tickets in advance, especially during holidays and weekends, as this is one of Cornwall's most popular attractions
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❓ Frequently asked questions
What weather should you expect?
Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, longest daylight, peak tourist season, highest prices, festival season, ideal for all regions.
Spring (April-May): Mild weather, blooming gardens, fewer crowds, moderate prices, excellent for countryside, comfortable temperatures.
Fall (September-October): Pleasant weather, autumn colors, fewer crowds, good value, comfortable for sightseeing, cozy pub atmosphere.
Winter (November-March): Cold temperatures, shortest days, Christmas markets, lowest prices, indoor attractions, cozy cultural experiences.
How many days should I plan?
We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 9 and 13 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.
What to discover in United Kingdom?
Rich history with royal heritage, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks from London to Edinburgh. Experience pub culture, literary heritage, and beautiful countryside. The country offers excellent transportation with cultural depth and historical significance. United Kingdom provides cultural richness with historical importance and modern amenities in compact island nation.